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Johns O, Pearl DL, Foster RA, Barta J, Chenier T. The seroprevalence and risk factors for exposure to Neospora caninum and Neospora hughesi in Ontario broodmares. Vet Parasitol Reg Stud Reports 2024; 50:101002. [PMID: 38644034 DOI: 10.1016/j.vprsr.2024.101002] [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: 12/15/2023] [Revised: 01/29/2024] [Accepted: 02/15/2024] [Indexed: 04/23/2024]
Abstract
The seroprevalence and risk factors for exposure to Neospora caninum and Neospora hughesi in broodmares in Ontario were investigated. Sixty of the 219 (27.4%) study broodmares were seropositive for N. caninum and 65/219 (29.7%) for N. hughesi with cut-offs of ≥1:40 and ≥1:160, respectively. Thirty-one of 63 participating farms (49.2%) had at least 1 broodmare seropositive for N. caninum. Thirty-three of the 63 (52.4%) participating farms had at least 1 broodmare positive for N. hughesi. Risk factors for N. caninum included presence of farm dogs (OR = 6.70; 95% CI = 2.14-20.97; p = 0.001), and high stocking density (OR = 2.83; 95% CI = 1.27-6.30; p = 0.011). Presence of livestock, excluding cattle, was associated with reduced risk of exposure (OR = 0.17; 95% CI = 0.06-0.53; p = 0.002). The only risk factor for exposure to N. hughesi was feeding hay on the ground in the paddock (OR = 4.31; 95% CI = 1.65-11.22; p = 0.003). This study demonstrated widespread exposure to Neospora spp. in broodmares in Ontario.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olivia Johns
- University of Guelph, Department of Population Medicine, 50 Stone Rd E, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada.
| | - David L Pearl
- University of Guelph, Department of Population Medicine, 50 Stone Rd E, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada.
| | - Robert A Foster
- University of Guelph, Department of Pathobiology, 50 Stone Rd E, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada.
| | - John Barta
- University of Guelph, Department of Pathobiology, 50 Stone Rd E, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada.
| | - Tracey Chenier
- University of Guelph, Department of Population Medicine, 50 Stone Rd E, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada.
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Alshammari A, Gattan HS, Marzok M, Selim A. Seroprevalence and risk factors for Neospora spp. infection in equine in Egypt. Sci Rep 2023; 13:20242. [PMID: 37981658 PMCID: PMC10658168 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-47601-y] [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: 03/14/2023] [Accepted: 11/16/2023] [Indexed: 11/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Neospora infections in equine are associated with reproductive disorders and neurological diseases. Nevertheless, Egypt has no epidemiological information on this parasite in equine. This study determined the prevalence of Neospora spp. infection in 325 equines from three Egyptian governorates located at Northern Egypt using cELISA. The prevalence of antibodies against Neospora spp. was 19% (95% CI: 14.09-25.05) in horse, 34.1% (95%CI: 24.92-44.69) in donkey and 26.7% (95% CI: 15.97-41.04) in mule. In comparison to horse, donkey had a considerably higher chance of contracting Neospora spp. infection (OR = 1.80, 95% CI: 0.78-4.13; P = 0.016). The risk was also higher in freely grazing animals (OR = 3.49, 95% CI: 0.95-12.78; P = 0.059). Moreover, yearling animals (12-24 months) (OR = 5.03, 95% CI: 1.51-16.80; P = 0.009) and those with natural breeding (OR = 11.80, 95% CI: 3.24-42.99, P < 0.0001) and a history of early abortion (OR = 7.04, 95% CI: 3.01-16.47; P < 0.0001) also showed a greater risk of seropositivity. The risk of Neospora infection increased significantly in equines contacted with dogs (OR = 5.16, 95% CI: 1.76-15.10; P = 0.003). This the first serological study to determine the seroprevalence of Neospora spp. in equine in Egypt. Further studies are necessary to identify the species of Neospora and to understand the role of above-mentioned risk factors in spreading of infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayed Alshammari
- Department of Biology, College of Science, University of Hafr Al-Batin, Hafr Al-Batin, Saudi Arabia
| | - Hattan S Gattan
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, King AbdulAziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
- Special Infectious Agents Unit, King Fahad Medical Research Center, King AbdulAziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohamed Marzok
- Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, King Faisal University, 31982, Al-Ahsa, Saudi Arabia.
- Department of Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kafr El Sheikh University, Kafr El Sheikh, Egypt.
| | - Abdelfattah Selim
- Department of Animal Medicine (Infectious Diseases), Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Benha University, Toukh, 13736, Egypt.
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Berman N, Tirosh-Levy S, Steinman A, Minderigiu A, Blinder E, Leszkowicz Mazuz M. First Detection of Anti-Besnoitia spp. Antibodies in Equids in Israel and the Palestinian Authority. Microorganisms 2023; 11:microorganisms11040929. [PMID: 37110352 PMCID: PMC10143183 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms11040929] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2023] [Revised: 03/28/2023] [Accepted: 03/30/2023] [Indexed: 04/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Besnoitia is a tissue cyst forming coccidia, which affects multiple host species worldwide. Equine besnoitiosis is characterized mainly by generalized skin lesions and cysts in the scleral conjunctiva. Recent reports revealed exposure to Besnoitia in equines in Europe and the United States. However, the exposure to Besnoitia spp. in the Israeli equine population was never investigated. The aim of this study was to evaluate the seroprevalence and associated risk factors for besnoitiosis in equids in Israel. A cross-sectional serosurvey was performed using serum samples of apparently healthy horses (n = 347), donkeys (n = 98), and mules (n = 6), and exposure to Besnoitia spp. was determined by an immunofluorescent antibody test (IFAT). Anti-Besnoitia spp. antibodies were detected in 17.7% equids, 6.9% horses, 33.3% mules, and 55.1% donkeys. The seroprevalence in donkeys was significantly higher than in horses (p < 0.001). A significant association between the geographic location and seropositivity was found both in horses and donkeys, which was significantly higher (p = 0.004) in horses sampled in southern Israel, and donkeys sampled in Israel versus the Palestinian Authority (p < 0.001). This is the first serosurvey of Besnoitia infection in equines in Israel, and the results are consistent with reports from Europe. The clinical significance of equine besnoitiosis should be further investigated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noa Berman
- Koret School of Veterinary Medicine, The Robert H. Smith Faculty of Agriculture, Food and Environment, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Rehovot 7610001, Israel
| | - Sharon Tirosh-Levy
- Koret School of Veterinary Medicine, The Robert H. Smith Faculty of Agriculture, Food and Environment, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Rehovot 7610001, Israel
- Division of Parasitology, Kimron Veterinary Institute, Bet Dagan 5025004, Israel
| | - Amir Steinman
- Koret School of Veterinary Medicine, The Robert H. Smith Faculty of Agriculture, Food and Environment, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Rehovot 7610001, Israel
| | - Avital Minderigiu
- Koret School of Veterinary Medicine, The Robert H. Smith Faculty of Agriculture, Food and Environment, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Rehovot 7610001, Israel
| | - Elena Blinder
- Division of Parasitology, Kimron Veterinary Institute, Bet Dagan 5025004, Israel
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Neospora spp. Seroprevalence and Risk Factors for Seropositivity in Apparently Healthy Horses and Pregnant Mares. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:ani12192699. [PMID: 36230440 PMCID: PMC9558976 DOI: 10.3390/ani12192699] [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: 09/12/2022] [Revised: 10/02/2022] [Accepted: 10/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Neosporosis, caused by the parasite Neospora species, is recognized as one of the major causes of abortion in cattle worldwide causing large economic losses. Over the past few years, Neospora infection and parasite transmission from the mare to the fetus has been documented in horses and was associated with reproduction failure. In the present study, we investigated parasite prevalence and associated risk factors in the general equine population and in a group of pregnant mares during pregnancy and after parturition. Our findings revealed high exposure of horses to Neospora spp. parasites, with significantly higher prevalence in pregnant mares. Abstract Equine Neospora infection has been linked to neurological disorders and infertility in horses. This study looked into the risk factors for infection and the exposure to Neospora spp. in horses. The study was performed in two independent populations in Israel. The first consisted of apparently healthy horses, and the second consisted of mares examined during pregnancy and after parturition. Sera samples collected from horses and mares were tested for Neospora exposure by the indirect fluorescent antibody test (IFAT). The study revealed seroprevalence of 24% in apparently healthy horses and 66.4% and 48.6% in mares during gestation and after parturition, respectively. Among the investigated risk factors, older age (p = 0.026) and housing in both stalls and paddocks (p = 0.033) in apparently healthy horses, and Arabian breeds (p = 0.005) in pregnant mares, were found to be significantly associated with Neospora spp. seropositivity in univariable, but not multivariable, statistical analysis. This study revealed high exposure of equines to Neospora parasites, especially mares. Horse farm management, in combination with active surveillance, including serological testing and follow up, could help reduce the spread of the parasite among horses in endemic areas.
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Rahmani SS, Malekifard F, Tavassoli M. Neospora caninum, a cause of abortion in donkeys (Equus asinus) in Iran. Parasitol Res 2021; 121:367-372. [PMID: 34811588 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-021-07383-6] [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: 07/04/2021] [Accepted: 11/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Neospora caninum is an Apicomplexan parasite that can cause enormous economic losses due to abortions in cattle. The present study investigated the role of Neospora spp. infection in equine abortion in Iranian donkeys using molecular and phylogenetic analyses. Twenty-nine-aborted fetuses and 29 blood samples from their dams were collected from six different regions in the West and Northwest of Iran. They were tested for N. caninum by PCR at the Nc5 locus, followed by sequencing of five of the PCR products. The overall molecular prevalence was 34.5% in blood samples and the prevalence by DNA detection in the aborted fetuses was 13.8%. Evidence of transplacental transmission from positive jennies to their fetuses was detected in 40% of aborting jennies. Comparison of the five partial Nc5 sequences (227 bp length) exhibited 98-100% similarity with N. caninum GenBank sequences. This is the first molecular study and genetic characterization of N. caninum in Iranian donkeys suggests that N. caninum may be a significant cause of abortion in donkeys.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seyedeh Shabnam Rahmani
- Department of Pathobiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Urmia University, P.O. Box 1177, Urmia, Iran
| | - Farnaz Malekifard
- Department of Pathobiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Urmia University, P.O. Box 1177, Urmia, Iran.
| | - Mousa Tavassoli
- Department of Pathobiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Urmia University, P.O. Box 1177, Urmia, Iran
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Llano HAB, Soares RM, Acevedo-Gutierrez LY, Rodas JD, Polo G, Borges-Silva W, Jesus RF, Gondim LFP. Seroepidemiology of Sarcocystis neurona and Neospora spp. in horses, donkeys, and mules from Colombia. Acta Trop 2021; 220:105970. [PMID: 34033805 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2021.105970] [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: 01/21/2021] [Revised: 05/02/2021] [Accepted: 05/11/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Sarcocystis neurona and Neospora spp. are related protozoa that can cause equine protozoal myeloencephalitis (EPM). The present study aimed to determine the frequency of antibodies to these parasites in 649 equids (351 horses, 267 donkeys, and 31 mules) from six departments in the North and Northwest of Colombia. For this purpose, the indirect fluorescent antibody test (IFAT) was used for detecting antibodies against S. neurona and Neospora spp. with a cut-off point of 1:20 and 1:50, respectively. A binomial logistic regression model was selected to predict variables associated with exposure. The frequency of anti-S. neurona antibodies was 14.24% (95% CI: 10.84-18.44) for horses, 2.99% (95% CI: 1.39-6.04) for donkeys, and 16.13% (95% CI: 6.09-34.47) for mules. The risk for S. neurona infection was significantly lower in donkeys (OR: 0.18 [0.08-0.38]; p<0.001) than horses and mules, and higher in animals with a poor body condition (OR: 2.82 [1.45-6.05]; p<0.05). Additionally, older animals (>12y) had a higher risk of seropositivity (OR: 5.26 [1.88-19.1]; p<0.05), as well as animals that inhabit climatic conditions associated with tropical very dry forest (OR: 1.85 [1.01-3.51]; p<0.05). Córdoba and Antioquia departments presented the highest seropositivity to S. neurona with 13.01 and 8.3%, respectively. The frequency of anti-Neospora spp. antibodies was 1.42% (95% CI: 0.52-3.48) for horses, 1.12% (95% CI:0.29-3.52) for donkeys and 0% (95%, CI: 0-0) for mules. Atlántico was the state with the highest seropositivity to Neospora spp. (10%). No risks associated with Neospora spp. infection were found. These findings allow us to conclude that equids from these regions of Colombia are exposed to S. neurona, but antibodies to Neospora spp. are uncommon. Further studies are necessary to explore the presence of these two agents in other areas of the country. In addition, we need to prove the importance of the above-mentioned risk factors over the susceptibility of horses to these protozoal agents and the epidemiological impact of these underdiagnosed coccidia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Horwald A B Llano
- Departamento de Medicina Preventiva e Saúde Animal, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade de São Paulo -USP, São Paulo, SP, Brazil; Grupo de Investigación GINVER, Corporación Universitaria Remington, Facultad de Medicina Veterinaria, Medellín, Colombia.
| | - Rodrigo Martins Soares
- Departamento de Medicina Preventiva e Saúde Animal, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade de São Paulo -USP, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Leidy Y Acevedo-Gutierrez
- Grupo de Investigación en Ciencias Veterinarias Centauro, Universidad de Antioquia, Medellín, Colombia
| | - Juan David Rodas
- Grupo de Investigación en Ciencias Veterinarias Centauro, Universidad de Antioquia, Medellín, Colombia
| | - Gina Polo
- Grupo de Investigación en Epidemiología y Salud Pública, Universidad de La Salle, D.C., Colombia
| | - Waléria Borges-Silva
- Departamento de Anatomia, Patologia e Clínicas, Universidade Federal da Bahia, Escola de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia-UFBA, Salvador-BA, Brazil
| | - Rogério F Jesus
- Departamento de Anatomia, Patologia e Clínicas, Universidade Federal da Bahia, Escola de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia-UFBA, Salvador-BA, Brazil
| | - Luís F P Gondim
- Departamento de Anatomia, Patologia e Clínicas, Universidade Federal da Bahia, Escola de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia-UFBA, Salvador-BA, Brazil
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Leszkowicz Mazuz M, Mimoun L, Schvartz G, Tirosh-Levy S, Savitzki I, Edery N, Blum SE, Baneth G, Pusterla N, Steinman A. Detection of Neospora caninum Infection in Aborted Equine Fetuses in Israel. Pathogens 2020; 9:pathogens9110962. [PMID: 33228059 PMCID: PMC7699351 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens9110962] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2020] [Revised: 11/11/2020] [Accepted: 11/17/2020] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
In horses, Neospora caninum and Neospora hughesi have been associated with fetal loss, and neurological disease, respectively. This study investigated the role of Neospora spp. infection in equine abortion in Israel. The presence of anti-Neospora spp. antibodies was evaluated in 31 aborting mares by indirect fluorescent antibody test (IFAT) and the presence of parasite DNA in their aborted fetuses was evaluated by polymerase chain reaction (PCR), using two target loci (ITS1 and Nc5). The seroprevalence found in aborting mares was 70.9% and the prevalence by DNA detection in the aborted fetuses was 41.9%. Transplacental transmission from positive mares to their fetuses was 45.4% (10/22), while 33.3% (3/9) of fetuses of seronegative mares also tested positive for Neospora. The use of two PCR targets improved the sensitivity of parasite detection, and positive samples were identified by sequence analyses as N. caninum. These finding suggest that N. caninum could be a significant cause of abortion in horses, and that transplacental transmission in horses is an important way of transmission of N.caninum. The results presented here demonstrated the necessity to use several tests concurrently, including serological and molecular assays in order to confirm the involvement of Neospora in mare abortions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monica Leszkowicz Mazuz
- Division of Parasitology, Kimron Veterinary Institute, Beit Dagan 50200, Israel; (S.T.-L.); (I.S.)
- Correspondence: (M.L.M.); (A.S.); Tel.: +972-3-968-1690 (M.L.M.); +972-3-968-8544 (A.S.)
| | - Lea Mimoun
- Koret School of Veterinary Medicine, The Robert H. Smith Faculty of Agriculture, Food and Environment, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Rehovot 7610001, Israel; (L.M.); (G.S.); (G.B.)
| | - Gili Schvartz
- Koret School of Veterinary Medicine, The Robert H. Smith Faculty of Agriculture, Food and Environment, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Rehovot 7610001, Israel; (L.M.); (G.S.); (G.B.)
| | - Sharon Tirosh-Levy
- Division of Parasitology, Kimron Veterinary Institute, Beit Dagan 50200, Israel; (S.T.-L.); (I.S.)
- Koret School of Veterinary Medicine, The Robert H. Smith Faculty of Agriculture, Food and Environment, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Rehovot 7610001, Israel; (L.M.); (G.S.); (G.B.)
| | - Igor Savitzki
- Division of Parasitology, Kimron Veterinary Institute, Beit Dagan 50200, Israel; (S.T.-L.); (I.S.)
| | - Nir Edery
- Division of Pathology, Kimron Veterinary Institute, Beit Dagan 50200, Israel;
| | - Shlomo E. Blum
- Division of Bacteriology, Kimron Veterinary Institute, Beit Dagan 50200, Israel;
| | - Gad Baneth
- Koret School of Veterinary Medicine, The Robert H. Smith Faculty of Agriculture, Food and Environment, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Rehovot 7610001, Israel; (L.M.); (G.S.); (G.B.)
| | - Nicola Pusterla
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Epidemiology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, CA 95616, USA;
| | - Amir Steinman
- Koret School of Veterinary Medicine, The Robert H. Smith Faculty of Agriculture, Food and Environment, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Rehovot 7610001, Israel; (L.M.); (G.S.); (G.B.)
- Correspondence: (M.L.M.); (A.S.); Tel.: +972-3-968-1690 (M.L.M.); +972-3-968-8544 (A.S.)
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Javanmardi E, Majidiani H, Shariatzadeh SA, Anvari D, Shamsinia S, Ghasemi E, Kordi B, Shams M, Asghari A. Global seroprevalence of Neospora spp. in horses and donkeys: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Vet Parasitol 2020; 288:109299. [PMID: 33227673 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2020.109299] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2020] [Revised: 10/24/2020] [Accepted: 10/26/2020] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Neospora infections due to Neospora caninum and N. hughesi are prevalent among equids of the world. The disease may affect reproductive and neurological consequences. The present systematic review and meta-analysis was performed to evaluate the global Neospora seroprevalence among horses and donkeys. A number of 57 out of 1575 total retrieved studies were included by searching the PubMed, Scopus, Science Direct, Web of Science and ProQuest. A total of 25,783 horses and 4377 donkeys were examined serologically, yielding a weighted seroprevalence of 13.46 % (95 % CI: 10.26 %-17.42 %) globally. Subgroup analysis revealed that there were statistically significant differences in the overall prevalence of Neospora spp. in the examined animals according to year, continent, WHO region, country, host, and diagnostic method. Age and sex in horses as well as sex in donkeys were significantly associated with the Neospora seroprevalence (P < 0.001). Our findings showed a relatively high exposure to Neospora spp. in horses and donkeys worldwide. Considering the possible economic impact, as well as the importance in animal health, more studies are needed to clarify the species causing equine neosporosis, correlate serological findings with clinical outcomes and assess the risk factors, in order to define adequate prevention and control strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erfan Javanmardi
- Clinical Research Development Center, "The Persian Gulf Martyrs" Hospital of Bushehr University of Medical Sciences, Bushehr, Iran
| | - Hamidreza Majidiani
- Zoonotic Diseases Research Center, Ilam University of Medical Sciences, Ilam, Iran.
| | - Seyyed Ali Shariatzadeh
- Department of Parasitology, Student Research Committee, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
| | - Davood Anvari
- Department of Parasitology, Student Research Committee, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran; School of Medicine, Iranshahr University of Medical Sciences, Iranshahr, Iran
| | - Sadegh Shamsinia
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ezatollah Ghasemi
- Department of Medical Parasitology, School of Medicine, Dezful University of Medical Sciences, Dezful, Iran
| | - Bahareh Kordi
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Neyshabur University of Medical Sciences, Neyshabur, Iran; Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Pathobiology, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Morteza Shams
- Zoonotic Diseases Research Center, Ilam University of Medical Sciences, Ilam, Iran.
| | - Ali Asghari
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
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Tirosh-Levy S, Steinman A, Minderigiu A, Arieli O, Savitski I, Fleiderovitz L, Edery N, Schvartz G, Leszkowicz Mazuz M. High Exposure to Toxoplasma gondii and Neospora Spp. in Donkeys in Israel: Serological Survey and Case Reports. Animals (Basel) 2020; 10:ani10101921. [PMID: 33086723 PMCID: PMC7589725 DOI: 10.3390/ani10101921] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2020] [Revised: 10/11/2020] [Accepted: 10/14/2020] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Toxoplasma gondii and Neospora spp. are major pathogenic parasites of animals worldwide, with the first also affecting humans. These parasites have two-host life cycles, with the cat and the dog being the definitive hosts of T. gondii and N. caninum, respectively. Both parasites can infect various animal species, as intermediate hosts, in which they form tissue cysts and may cause abortions and neurological disease. Both parasites have been reported in wild and domestic animals in Israel. This study aimed to evaluate the serologic exposure of donkeys to these parasites. A total of 98 donkeys were examined. Half of them (n = 49) were from animal shelters in Israel, and the rest (n = 49) were working donkeys from the Palestinian Authority. Anti-T. gondii antibodies and anti-Neospora spp. antibodies were found in 94% and in 70% of the donkeys, respectively. In addition, two cases of donkeys presenting N. caninum tissue cysts, which were detected during post-mortem examination, were described. This is the first report of the exposure of donkeys to Toxoplasma gondii and Neospora spp. in the area. The exposure of donkeys to both parasites was considerably higher than the exposure of other species in the area and may be the result of poor husbandry conditions and higher exposure to infection. These results indicate that donkeys may have an important role in the maintenance and transmission of these parasites. Abstract Toxoplasma gondii and Neospora spp. are closely related cyst-forming coccidian parasites, which infect various animal species and have considerable zoonotic and economic implications, respectively. Both parasites are endemic in Israel and have been reported to infect wild and domestic animals. This study was conceived to evaluate the serologic exposure of donkeys to these parasites. Serum samples were collected from 98 donkeys. Half of them (n = 49) were from animal shelters in Israel, and the rest (n = 49) were working donkeys from the Palestinian Authority. The donkeys were screened for the presence of anti-Toxoplasma and anti-Neospora antibodies by immunofluorescence antibody tests (IFATs). The seroprevalence of T. gondii and Neospora spp. was 94% and 70%, respectively, and 69% of the donkeys were exposed to both parasites. In addition, N. caninum tissue cysts were documented in two donkeys during post-mortem examination. This is the first report of the exposure of donkeys to T. gondii and Neospora spp. in the area. The high prevalence found in this study suggests that donkeys may have a role in the maintenance of these parasites in the area, thus serving as a source of infection for the definitive hosts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sharon Tirosh-Levy
- Koret School of Veterinary Medicine, The Robert H. Smith Faculty of Agriculture, Food and Environment, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Rehovot 7610001, Israel; (S.T.-L.); (A.S.); (A.M.); (O.A.); (G.S.)
- Division of Parasitology, Kimron Veterinary Institute, Bet Dagan 50250, Israel; (I.S.); (L.F.)
| | - Amir Steinman
- Koret School of Veterinary Medicine, The Robert H. Smith Faculty of Agriculture, Food and Environment, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Rehovot 7610001, Israel; (S.T.-L.); (A.S.); (A.M.); (O.A.); (G.S.)
| | - Avital Minderigiu
- Koret School of Veterinary Medicine, The Robert H. Smith Faculty of Agriculture, Food and Environment, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Rehovot 7610001, Israel; (S.T.-L.); (A.S.); (A.M.); (O.A.); (G.S.)
| | - Ori Arieli
- Koret School of Veterinary Medicine, The Robert H. Smith Faculty of Agriculture, Food and Environment, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Rehovot 7610001, Israel; (S.T.-L.); (A.S.); (A.M.); (O.A.); (G.S.)
| | - Igor Savitski
- Division of Parasitology, Kimron Veterinary Institute, Bet Dagan 50250, Israel; (I.S.); (L.F.)
| | - Ludmila Fleiderovitz
- Division of Parasitology, Kimron Veterinary Institute, Bet Dagan 50250, Israel; (I.S.); (L.F.)
| | - Nir Edery
- Division of Pathology, Kimron Veterinary Institute, Bet Dagan 50250, Israel;
| | - Gili Schvartz
- Koret School of Veterinary Medicine, The Robert H. Smith Faculty of Agriculture, Food and Environment, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Rehovot 7610001, Israel; (S.T.-L.); (A.S.); (A.M.); (O.A.); (G.S.)
- Division of Virology, Kimron Veterinary Institute, Bet Dagan 50250, Israel
| | - Monica Leszkowicz Mazuz
- Division of Parasitology, Kimron Veterinary Institute, Bet Dagan 50250, Israel; (I.S.); (L.F.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +972-3-968-1690
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Abu-Halaweh M, Abo-Shehada MN, Khalil R. Age, gender and climate associations with the seroprevalence of Neospora species infection in horses in Jordan. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2020; 29:e016019. [PMID: 32520089 DOI: 10.1590/s1984-29612020004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2019] [Accepted: 12/16/2019] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
A cross-sectional study was carried out on a sample of 379 horses to determine the seroprevalence of Neospora spp. in Jordan using the indirect fluorescent antibody test. Five variables, namely locality (n=10), climatic zone (n=4), age group (n=3), gender, and breed were tested as risk factors for Neospora-immunoglobulin (Ig)G seropositivity at four cutoff titers (1:50, 1:200, 1:400, and 1:800) using univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses. A total of 122 (32%; 95% CI: 28, 37) sera samples had anti-Neospora-IgG at a cutoff titer of 1:50. Increased Neospora-IgG seropositivity was found in horses in three localities (Madaba, Zarka, and Petra) and was associated with the following variables: cool temperate climate; age >14 years; and female gender. Seropositivity was found among horses from Madaba at all cutoff titers, Zarka at titers >1:200, and Petra at titers <1:200. Cool temperate climate was associated with titers <1:400. Horses aged >14 years were found to be associated with seropositivity at titers ≥1:200. Female gender was associated with high seropositivity at >1:800.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marwan Abu-Halaweh
- Department of Biotechnology and Genetic Engineering, Faculty of Scienctable, Philadelphia University, Jerash, Jordan
| | - Mahmoud N Abo-Shehada
- Faculty of Epidemiology and Population Health, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, University of London, London, UK
| | - Raida Khalil
- Department of Biotechnology and Genetic Engineering, Faculty of Scienctable, Philadelphia University, Jerash, Jordan
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11
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McKenny L, O'Handley R, Kovaliski J, Mutze G, Peacock D, Lanyon S. Evidence of infection with Toxoplasma gondii and Neospora caninum in South Australia: using wild rabbits as a sentinel species. Aust Vet J 2020; 98:380-387. [PMID: 32350856 DOI: 10.1111/avj.12951] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2019] [Revised: 03/07/2020] [Accepted: 03/23/2020] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to utilise wild rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus) as a sentinel species to study levels of environmental contamination with N. caninum and T. gondii in South Australia, and to examine associations with rainfall, climate and land use. DESIGN Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii), an apicomplexan parasite, causes the clinical disease toxoplasmosis, which can affect sheep as well as humans and many other animals. Neosporosis, the clinical disease caused by closely related Neospora caninum (N. caninum), causes abortions in cattle, with large economic impacts to cattle industries. METHODS Aliquots of wild rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus) serum were obtained from twelve sites across South Australia over a period of eighteen years, with a total of 2114 samples. An in-house Modified Agglutination Test (MAT) was developed, and samples were screened for the specific antibodies against both T.gondii and N. caninum. RESULTS Overall, 9.9% of samples screened for T. gondii tested positive and 6.1% of samples screened for N. caninum tested positive. There was no difference observed in seroprevalence of T.gondii specific antibodies between samples collected throughout summer, autumn, winter or spring. By contrast, a significantly higher (p=0.030) seroprevalence of N. caninum specific antibodies was observed in spring than any other season. T. gondii and N. caninum antibodies were discovered at sites across a broad area of South Australia, indicating these environments maybe infected with both parasites. CONCLUSION Results provide evidence that suggests N. caninum oocysts may have different survival characteristics, such as varying tolerances to low relative humidity, than T. gondii oocysts.
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Affiliation(s)
- L McKenny
- School of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, The University of Adelaide, Roseworthy, South Australia, Australia
| | - R O'Handley
- School of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, The University of Adelaide, Roseworthy, South Australia, Australia
| | - J Kovaliski
- Invasive Species, Biosecurity SA, Primary Industries and Regions SA, Urrbrae, South Australia, Australia
| | - G Mutze
- Invasive Species, Biosecurity SA, Primary Industries and Regions SA, Urrbrae, South Australia, Australia
| | - D Peacock
- School of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, The University of Adelaide, Roseworthy, South Australia, Australia.,Invasive Species, Biosecurity SA, Primary Industries and Regions SA, Urrbrae, South Australia, Australia
| | - S Lanyon
- School of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, The University of Adelaide, Roseworthy, South Australia, Australia
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12
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Waap H, Volkart de Oliveira U, Nunes T, Gomes J, Gomes T, Bärwald A, Dias Munhoz A, Schares G. Serological survey of Neospora spp. and Besnoitia spp. in horses in Portugal. VETERINARY PARASITOLOGY- REGIONAL STUDIES AND REPORTS 2020; 20:100391. [PMID: 32448546 DOI: 10.1016/j.vprsr.2020.100391] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2019] [Revised: 01/17/2020] [Accepted: 02/20/2020] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Equine neosporosis is regarded to be caused either by Neospora hughesi or Neospora caninum and equine besnoitiosis is caused by Besnoitia bennetti, both of which are apicomplexan parasites. N. caninum is the only known Neospora species in Europe, where equine N. caninum infections have been reported as being associated to abortion and reproductive failure. N. hughesi is prevalent in North America and was predominantly linked to neurological disorders. B. bennetti is considered an emergent disease in donkeys in North America and evidence for B. bennetti infection was recently reported in Europe. Though N. caninum and Besnoitia besnoiti are prevalent in cattle in Portugal, little is known about neosporosis in horses and, to the best of our knowledge, no information was hitherto available for Besnoitia spp. The aim of this study was thus to carry out a serological survey to determine the seroprevalence of these parasites in naturally exposed horses in Portugal. A total of 385 animals were screened by the Indirect Fluorescent Antibody Test at the cut-off value 1:50 and positive results were confirmed by Western blot. Exposure to Neospora spp. and Besnoitia spp. was confirmed in 9.1% (95% Confidence Interval [CI]: 6.6-12.4%) and 0.3% (95% CI: 0.0-1.5%) of horses, respectively. Considering the putative economic and animal health impact of neosporosis in horses and the consequences of a possible spread of equine besnoitiosis in Europe and elsewhere, more comprehensive studies are needed to characterize the species detected in serological surveys, evaluate the geographical distribution and assess possible risk factors that could favor transmission.
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Affiliation(s)
- Helga Waap
- Laboratório de Parasitologia, Instituto Nacional de Investigação Agrária e Veterinária, Av. da República, Quinta do Marquês 2780-157, Oeiras, Portugal; CIISA, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária, Universidade de Lisboa, Avenida da Universidade Técnica 1300-477, Lisboa, Portugal.
| | - Uillians Volkart de Oliveira
- Departamento de Ciências Agrárias e Ambientais, Universidade Estadual de Santa Cruz, 45662-900 Ilhéus, BA, Brazil; Faculdade de Ciências Sociais e Aplicadas, Santo Antônio Monte, Itamaraju 45836-000, BA, Brazil
| | - Telmo Nunes
- CIISA, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária, Universidade de Lisboa, Avenida da Universidade Técnica 1300-477, Lisboa, Portugal.
| | - Jacinto Gomes
- Laboratório de Parasitologia, Instituto Nacional de Investigação Agrária e Veterinária, Av. da República, Quinta do Marquês 2780-157, Oeiras, Portugal; CIISA, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária, Universidade de Lisboa, Avenida da Universidade Técnica 1300-477, Lisboa, Portugal.
| | - Tiago Gomes
- Escola Profissional de Desenvolvimento Rural de Serpa, Herdade da Bemposta 7830-909, Serpa, Portugal
| | - Andrea Bärwald
- Friedrich-Loeffler-Institute, Institute of Epidemiology, 17493 Greifswald, Insel Riems, Germany.
| | - Alexandre Dias Munhoz
- Departamento de Ciências Agrárias e Ambientais, Universidade Estadual de Santa Cruz, 45662-900 Ilhéus, BA, Brazil.
| | - Gereon Schares
- Friedrich-Loeffler-Institute, Institute of Epidemiology, 17493 Greifswald, Insel Riems, Germany.
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Cruz I, Vinhas AR, Dubey JP, Cardoso L, Cotovio M, Lopes AP. First report of antibodies to Neospora spp. in horses from Portugal. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2019; 28:161-163. [PMID: 30892382 DOI: 10.1590/s1984-296120180081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2018] [Accepted: 10/09/2018] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Neospora spp. are intracellular protozoa with worldwide distribution and closely related to Toxoplasma gondii, which can infect a variety of mammals including horses. From September 2013 to June 2014, 185 horses from northern, central and southern parts of mainland Portugal were randomly sampled and tested for detection of immunoglobulin (Ig) G antibodies to Neospora spp. using an indirect multi-species enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) commercial test (ID Screen® Neospora caninum Indirect Multi-species; ID.vet Innovative Diagnostics, Grabels, France). Two horses (1.1%; CI: 0.1-3.8%), one male and one female, were found to be seropositive for Neospora spp. Both seropositive animals were horses housed indoors but with access to outdoors, used for leisure activities and were apparently healthy, with good body condition and with no alterations at physical examination. This was the first serologic survey of antibodies to Neospora spp. carried out in horses from Portugal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Inês Cruz
- Old Church Veterinary Hospital, Ballyshannon, County Donegal, Ireland
| | - Ana Rita Vinhas
- Departamento de Ciências Veterinárias, Escola de Ciências Agrárias e Veterinárias, Universidade de Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro - UTAD, Vila Real, Portugal
| | - Jitender Prakash Dubey
- Animal Parasitic Diseases Laboratory, Beltsville Agricultural Research Center - BARC, Agricultural Research Service - ARS, United States Department of Agriculture - USDA, Beltsville, Maryland, USA
| | - Luís Cardoso
- Departamento de Ciências Veterinárias, Escola de Ciências Agrárias e Veterinárias, Universidade de Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro - UTAD, Vila Real, Portugal.,Laboratório de Parasitologia, Escola de Ciências Agrárias e Veterinárias - ECAV, Universidade de Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro - UTAD, Vila Real, Portugal.,Hospital Veterinário, Universidade de Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro - UTAD, Vila Real, Portugal.,Centro de Ciências Animal e Veterinária - CECAV, Universidade de Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro - UTAD, Vila Real, Portugal
| | - Mário Cotovio
- Departamento de Ciências Veterinárias, Escola de Ciências Agrárias e Veterinárias, Universidade de Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro - UTAD, Vila Real, Portugal.,Hospital Veterinário, Universidade de Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro - UTAD, Vila Real, Portugal.,Centro de Ciências Animal e Veterinária - CECAV, Universidade de Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro - UTAD, Vila Real, Portugal
| | - Ana Patrícia Lopes
- Departamento de Ciências Veterinárias, Escola de Ciências Agrárias e Veterinárias, Universidade de Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro - UTAD, Vila Real, Portugal.,Laboratório de Parasitologia, Escola de Ciências Agrárias e Veterinárias - ECAV, Universidade de Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro - UTAD, Vila Real, Portugal.,Centro de Ciências Animal e Veterinária - CECAV, Universidade de Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro - UTAD, Vila Real, Portugal
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Prevalence and risk factors for IgG antibodies to Neospora spp. in three types of equids from Southern Punjab, Pakistan. Acta Trop 2018; 188:240-243. [PMID: 30219554 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2018.09.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2018] [Revised: 09/12/2018] [Accepted: 09/12/2018] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Equine hosts suffer from neurological disease, congenital infection, and reproductive problems associated with Neospora spp. infection. We conducted a cross sectional study using sera from 631 equids (324 horses, 218 donkeys and 89 mules) from the southern region of Punjab province, Pakistan to determine the prevalence of antibodies against Neospora spp. in this diverse group of equines. Fisk factors associated with seropositivity were evaluated statistically based on equine type, breed, age, husbandry, breeding methods, and reproductive history. Prevalence of antibodies to Neospora spp. was detected using a commercially available competitive ELISA kit. We detected IgG antibodies to Neospora spp. in 23.3% of the equids with prevalence by host being 16.0% in horses, 32.6% in donkeys and 26.9% in 89 mules. Statistically significant (P < 0.05) differences in prevalence were observed among these hosts. Prevalence ranged in breeds of horses from 3.7% in the Morna breed, 12.4% in breeding stock, 26.8% in draughting stock, to 31.4% in unknown breeds. No significant (P > 0.05) difference in prevalence was noted among age groups. Prevalence was significantly (P < 0.05) higher in female equines with a history of abortion than those with no history of abortion. This is the first report documenting Neospora spp. in equines from Pakistan and it provides evidence that Neospora spp. is associated with abortions in female equines in Pakistan.
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15
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Diseases of the Nervous System. Vet Med (Auckl) 2017. [PMCID: PMC7322266 DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-7020-5246-0.00014-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
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16
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Ribeiro MJM, Rosa MHF, Bruhn FRP, Garcia ADM, Rocha CMBMD, Guimarães AM. Seroepidemiology of Sarcocystis neurona, Toxoplasma gondii and Neospora spp. among horses in the south of the state of Minas Gerais, Brazil. REVISTA BRASILEIRA DE PARASITOLOGIA VETERINARIA 2016; 25:142-50. [DOI: 10.1590/s1984-29612016029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2015] [Accepted: 03/02/2016] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Abstract The present study used the indirect fluorescent antibody test (IFAT) to determine the seroprevalence of Sarcocystis neurona, Toxoplasma gondii and Neospora spp., and evaluated the variables associated with these infections among 506 apparently healthy horses, reared in the south of the state of Minas Gerais, Brazil. This study was conducted between April 2012 and October 2013. Among the horses, the true prevalence of S. neurona was 26% (95% CI: 22.0-30.4%), T. gondii 19.9% (95% CI: 15.5-24.8%) and Neospora spp. 23.9% (95% CI: 19.9-28.1%); and among the farms, 88.3% (95% CI: 74.4-91.6%), 71.6% (95% CI: 41-92.8%) and 85% (95% CI: 70.7-96.1%), respectively. Regarding mixed infection, 17 horses (3.4%) were seropositive for both S. neurona and T. gondii, 16 (3.2%) for T. gondii and Neospora spp. and 14 (2.8%) for S. neurona and Neospora spp. The associations between seropositivity and variables relating to the structure of the farm, management and health were analyzed using the logistic regression analysis, through the generalized estimating equations (GEE). The results suggest that the south of Minas Gerais is an enzootic area for S. neurona, T. gondii and Neospora spp. among horses, with prevalence of asymptomatic subclinical or chronic infections.
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17
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Risk Factors for Occurrence of Anti-Neospora spp. Antibodies in Horses From Alagoas, Brazil. J Equine Vet Sci 2015. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jevs.2015.08.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
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18
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Bartova E, Machacova T, Sedlak K, Budikova M, Mariani U, Veneziano V. Seroprevalence of antibodies of Neospora spp. and Toxoplasma gondii in horses from southern Italy. Folia Parasitol (Praha) 2015; 62. [DOI: 10.14411/fp.2015.043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2015] [Accepted: 06/04/2015] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
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19
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Talafha AQ, Abutarbush SM, Rutley DL. Seroprevalence and Potential Risk Factors Associated with Neospora spp. Infection among Asymptomatic Horses in Jordan. THE KOREAN JOURNAL OF PARASITOLOGY 2015; 53:163-7. [PMID: 25925174 PMCID: PMC4416377 DOI: 10.3347/kjp.2015.53.2.163] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2014] [Revised: 01/19/2015] [Accepted: 01/25/2015] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
This study aimed to determine the seroprevalence and to identify risk factors associated with Neospora spp. infection in horses in Jordan. Management related data were collected from each farm and individual horses. Sera from 227 horses from 5 of 6 climatic regions in Jordan were analyzed for the presence of antibodies to Neospora spp. by ELISA kit. The study was performed during spring of 2010. The association between seropositivity and risk factors was analyzed. A total of 7 (3%) of 227 sera had antibodies for Neospora spp. There was a significant regional difference (P=0.018) between the 5 climatic regions. Positive cases were located in Amman and Irbid, while the other regions (Zarqa, Jordan Valley, and Wadi Mousa) had zero prevalence. The use of anthelmintics at least once a year resulted in a significant reduction of the seroprevalence to Neospora spp. (1.6% vs 9.8%). However, this might be a phenomenon by chance and a better hygiene since owners can invest in anthelmintics. Other risk factors such as age, gender, breed, usage, body condition score, grazing, presence of other animals mixed with the horses in the same property, and a history of previous diseases were not significantly associated with the seroprevalence to Neospora spp. infection. This is the first study to report on the presence of Neospora seropositive horses in Jordan. Further studies are warranted to better understand the role of certain risk factors in the transmission of Neospora spp. among horse population and to determine which Neospora spp. are responsible for the infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdelsalam Q Talafha
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid 22110, Jordan
| | - Sameeh M Abutarbush
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid 22110, Jordan
| | - David L Rutley
- School of Animal and Veterinary Science, The University of Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
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Quevedo PS, Avila LF, Saggin A, Silveira TR, Feijó LS, Frey Jr F, Curcio BR, Farias NAR. Verificação da transmissão vertical de Neospora spp. em equinos. PESQUISA VETERINARIA BRASILEIRA 2015. [DOI: 10.1590/s0100-736x2015000100007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
O gênero protozoário Neospora é reconhecido como causador de desordens reprodutivas e abortos em bovinos. Entre os equinos pouco se sabe sobre os efeitos da infecção por estes protozoários. Atualmente é admitido que os efeitos da infecção por Neospora hughesi em equinos possam ocorrer no sistema nervoso central e, os efeitos provocados pela infecção por Neospora caninum recaiam sobre o sistema reprodutor de éguas. O presente trabalho verificou a presença de imunoglobulinas da classe G no soro sanguíneo de uma população de éguas de cria e, em seus respectivos potros antes da ingestão do colostro. Para execução deste trabalho foi empregada técnica de imunofluorescência indireta (RIFI), utilizando como antígeno taquizoítos de Neospora caninum, a diluição inicial dos soros das éguas foi de 1:50 e a diluição do soro dos potros empregada foi de 1:16. Foram assistidos 78 partos e todos os potros tiveram seu soro sanguíneo coletado imediatamente após o nascimento. A pesquisa de anticorpos contra Neospora spp. apontou que 50 (64%) éguas e 32 (41%) potros foram positivos. Das 50 éguas que apresentaram anticorpos contra Neospora spp. 24 geraram potros positivos. Entre as 28 éguas que não reagiram, oito deram a luz a potros positivos. De posse dos resultados encontrados podemos concluir que ocorreu a transmissão vertical de Neospora spp. nos equinos pesquisados.
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21
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Blanco R, Patarroyo J, Vargas M, Cardona J, Araújo L, Gomez V. Ocorrência de anticorpos anti-Neospora spp. em jumentos (Equus asinus) no estado de Sucre - Colômbia. ARQ BRAS MED VET ZOO 2014. [DOI: 10.1590/1678-41627002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
A neosporose tem grande importância em bovinos, e sua patogênese neste hospedeiro, em termos gerais, está esclarecida, porém, em equídeos é pobremente conhecida. Na Colômbia ainda não foram reportados anticorpos Anti-Neospora spp. em equídeos, sendo assim objetivou-se no presente estudo avaliar a ocorrência do parasito em jumentos (Equus asinus) de fazendas que apresentavam risco da doença nestes animais. Foram utilizados 56 animais no estado de Sucre (Colômbia), escolhidos aleatoriamente dentro das fazendas selecionadas. Utilizou-se um peptídeo recombinante originado de Neospora caninum (NcGRA1) para o diagnóstico por Dot-ELISA, e o soro foi diluído em 1:200. Este estudo reporta, pela primeira vez no estado de Sucre e na Colômbia, a presença de anticorpos anti-Neospora spp. na espécie Equus asinus, com uma ocorrência de 19,7% (11/56) dos animais amostrados.
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22
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Abreu RA, Weiss RR, Thomaz-Soccol V, Locatelli-Dittrich R, Laskoski LM, Bertol MAF, Koch MO, Alban SM, Green KT. Association of antibodies against Neospora caninum in mares with reproductive problems and presence of seropositive dogs as a risk factor. Vet Parasitol 2014; 202:128-31. [PMID: 24731383 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2014.03.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2014] [Revised: 03/14/2014] [Accepted: 03/18/2014] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
Sera from 112 mares from 5 horse-breeding farms was examined for the presence of antibodies to Neospora caninum and Toxoplasma gondii by an indirect fluorescent antibody test (IFAT), as well as from dogs and cattle present on these properties for the presence of antibodies to N. caninum. Among the 112 mares, 35 had a history of reproductive problems in the last breeding season and 77 had no reproductive problems. The rates of seroprevalence of N. caninum in mares with and without a history of reproductive problems were 25.71% and 6.49% and from T. gondii 2.85% and 1.29%, respectively. In dogs and cattle, the rates of seroprevalence of N. caninum were 10.52% and 15.55%, respectively. A positive correlation was found between the presence of antibodies against N. caninum (p=0.010) in mares and the occurrence of reproductive problems using the Fisher's exact test. Significantly higher seroprevalence for N. caninum in mares was observed on the farm that had seropositive dogs (p=0.018). Cattle on this farm were also seropositive. No significant differences in seropositivity were found on farms where dogs were seronegative, or absent. This result suggests, for the first time, the presence of seropositive dogs as a risk factor for N. caninum in mares and the necessity for further investigation of the epidemiology of this parasite in horse-breeding farms with reproductive problems and the presence of cattle and dogs. This is the first report on the occurrence of antibodies against N. caninum in horses from the state of Santa Catarina, Brazil.
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Affiliation(s)
- R A Abreu
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Engenharia de Bioprocessos e Biotecnologia, Universidade Federal do Paraná, Rua Cel. Francisco H. dos Santos, 100, CEP 81531-990 Curitiba, Paraná, Brazil
| | - R R Weiss
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Engenharia de Bioprocessos e Biotecnologia, Universidade Federal do Paraná, Rua Cel. Francisco H. dos Santos, 100, CEP 81531-990 Curitiba, Paraná, Brazil.
| | - V Thomaz-Soccol
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Engenharia de Bioprocessos e Biotecnologia, Universidade Federal do Paraná, Rua Cel. Francisco H. dos Santos, 100, CEP 81531-990 Curitiba, Paraná, Brazil
| | - R Locatelli-Dittrich
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Veterinárias, Universidade Federal do Paraná, Curitiba, Paraná, Brazil
| | - L M Laskoski
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Veterinárias, Universidade Federal do Paraná, Curitiba, Paraná, Brazil
| | - M A F Bertol
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Engenharia de Bioprocessos e Biotecnologia, Universidade Federal do Paraná, Rua Cel. Francisco H. dos Santos, 100, CEP 81531-990 Curitiba, Paraná, Brazil
| | - M O Koch
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Engenharia de Bioprocessos e Biotecnologia, Universidade Federal do Paraná, Rua Cel. Francisco H. dos Santos, 100, CEP 81531-990 Curitiba, Paraná, Brazil
| | - S M Alban
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Engenharia de Bioprocessos e Biotecnologia, Universidade Federal do Paraná, Rua Cel. Francisco H. dos Santos, 100, CEP 81531-990 Curitiba, Paraná, Brazil
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Pivoto FL, Macêdo Junior AGD, da Silva MV, Ferreira FB, Silva DAO, Pompermayer E, Sangioni LA, Mineo TWP, Vogel FSF. Serological status of mares in parturition and the levels of antibodies (IgG) against protozoan family Sarcocystidae from their pre colostral foals. Vet Parasitol 2014; 199:107-11. [DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2013.10.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2013] [Revised: 10/02/2013] [Accepted: 10/04/2013] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
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Seroprevalence and risk factors of Neospora spp. in donkeys from Southern Italy. Vet Parasitol 2013; 198:201-4. [PMID: 24050943 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2013.08.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2013] [Revised: 08/09/2013] [Accepted: 08/11/2013] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
In some European countries there is an increasing interest on donkey. Despite there are few data regarding the donkey's parasitic diseases especially those with a protozoal etiology as neosporosis. Samples used in the study were collected from 238 domestic donkeys during year 2010 in Southern Italy from 207 females and 31 males of five breeds (Martina-Franca, Amiata, Sicilian-Grey, Ragusano, Sardinian) and crossbreeds with the average age 9 years (1 month - 24 year). Sera were tested by a competitive-inhibition enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay for antibodies against Neospora caninum; the sera were marked positive, if more than 30% inhibition was found. Out of a total 238 donkeys, 28 (11.8%) were found positive for Neospora antibodies with 12% in females and 6% in males. Different seroprevalence 15.4%, 16%, 12% and 8.8% were found in age categories <1 year, 1-4 years, 5-9 years and ≥10 years, respectively. The seroprevalence ranged in different breeds from 36% (Sicilian-Grey) to 0% (Sardinian) and in different use from 17% (for breeding) to 0% (for meat production). Logistic regression analysis demonstrated evidence of a significant (P<0.05) association between crossbreed origin of samples and risk of protozoan infection; age of donkeys was also significant risk factor for protozoan infection. No statistical significant difference (P>0.05) was found among genders and use of donkeys and risk of N. caninum infection. This is the first serological survey for Neospora spp. performed in donkeys.
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Villalobos EMC, Furman KE, Lara MDCCDSH, Cunha EMS, Finger MA, Busch APB, de Barros Filho IR, Deconto I, Dornbusch PT, Biondo AW. Detection of Neospora sp. antibodies in cart horses from urban areas of Curitiba, Southern Brazil. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2012; 21:68-70. [PMID: 22534949 DOI: 10.1590/s1984-29612012000100014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2011] [Accepted: 11/16/2011] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Neospora caninum is a protozoan parasite which affects dogs as definitive hosts and several mammalian species as intermediate hosts mainly causing abortions and central nervous system disorders. The reemerging population of cart horses for carrying recycling material in urban areas of major cities in Brazil may have an impact on disease spreading, and these animals may be used as sentinels for environmental surveillance. Thus, the present study investigated the frequency of Neospora sp. antibodies in cart horses from Curitiba and surrounding areas, Paraná State, Southern Brazil. IgG antibodies against Neospora sp. were detected using indirect fluorescence antibody test (IFAT), and titers equal to or higher than 1:50 were considered reactive. Of all samples, 14/97 (14.4%) were positive: 2/29 (6.9%) were younger than 5; 5/26 (19.2%) between 6 and 9; and 6/31 (19.4%) older than 10 years of age. One of the 11 animals with unknown age was positive (9.1%). Cart horses are likely to be more exposed to dog feces and to Neospora sp. oocyst contamination in urban settings and a lower frequency of disease in dogs may have a negative impact on horse infection risk in these areas.
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Antonello AM, Pivoto FL, Camillo G, Braunig P, Sangioni LA, Pompermayer E, Vogel FSF. The importance of vertical transmission of Neospora sp. in naturally infected horses. Vet Parasitol 2012; 187:367-70. [PMID: 22436425 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2012.02.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2011] [Revised: 01/31/2012] [Accepted: 02/10/2012] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Neospora spp. is a intracellular protozoan phylogenetically closely related to Toxoplasma gondii and Sarcocystis neurona, and it can infect horses leading to the development of reproductive or neurological diseases. We determined the presence of antibodies to Neospora sp. in mares at their parturition time and determine the frequency of vertical transmission in healthy foals to verify the importance of transplacental transmission. The samples were analyzed by indirect immunofluorescence antibody test, showing that seroprevalence in mares is higher than in foals and seropositive mares are likely to transmit the neosporosis to their offspring. This shows that endogenous challenge occurs in horses, and it suggests that this protozoan can be disseminated by means of transplacental transmission in horse species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Maria Antonello
- Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva (DMVP), Centro de Ciências Rurais (CCR), Universidade Federal de Santa Maria (UFSM), 97105-900 Santa Maria, RS, Brazil.
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Toscan G, Cadore GC, Pereira RC, Silva GB, Cezar AS, Sangioni LA, Oliveira LSSD, Vogel FS. Neosporose equina: ocorrência de anticorpos anti-Neospora spp. e associação entre status sorológico de éguas e de suas crias. PESQUISA VETERINARIA BRASILEIRA 2010. [DOI: 10.1590/s0100-736x2010000800006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Os protozoários Neospora caninum e N. hughesi infectam os equinos e podem provocar diferentes sinais clínicos associados a problemas reprodutivos ou a distúrbios neurológicos, respectivamente. A patogenia da neosporose é pouco conhecida nos equinos, bem como as fontes de infecção horizontal de N. hughesi. Além disso, há dúvidas quanto ao papel da transmissão vertical de Neospora spp. na sua manutenção em populações equinas. Neste estudo avaliaram-se: (1) a ocorrência da infecção por Neospora spp. na população de éguas em idade reprodutiva em um haras de cavalos da raça Crioula; e (2) a possível associação entre o status sorológico destas éguas com o de suas crias, como meio de investigar, indiretamente, a relevância da transmissão transplacentária na ocorrência da infecção por Neospora spp. nestes animais. A associação entre o status sorológico das éguas e o de suas crias foi altamente significativa. Os animais descendentes de éguas soropositivas tiveram maior ocorrência de anticorpos anti-Neospora spp. do que os descendentes de éguas soronegativas, embora expostos aos mesmos fatores de risco ambientais. A associação entre parentesco em primeiro grau e status sorológico indica a influência da infecção vertical (transplacentária) na ocorrência de Neospora spp. na população equina estudada.
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Neospora spp. and Toxoplasma gondii antibodies in horses in the Czech Republic. Parasitol Res 2010; 107:783-5. [PMID: 20532561 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-010-1929-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2010] [Accepted: 05/20/2010] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
During January 2007, blood samples were collected from 552 healthy horses from nine different regions of the Czech Republic. Sera were tested for serum antibodies to Neospora caninum by a competitive-inhibition enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and confirmed by an indirect fluorescent antibody test. The same samples were tested for serum antibodies against Toxoplasma gondii by a latex agglutination test. In total, 131 of 552 (24%) horses reacted positively for Neospora antibodies in competitive-inhibition enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay; seven of them had > or =50% of inhibition. Samples were confirmed in indirect fluorescence test, and only two samples were positive with final titres 50 and 100, while others were negative. Antibodies against T. gondii were found in 125 (23%) horses. This is the first serologic survey for Neospora spp. antibodies performed on horses in the Czech Republic.
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Aharonson-Raz K, Milgram J, Chai O, Sutton GA. Fibrosis of the masseter leading to trismus and dysphagia in a mare. Vet Rec 2009; 164:597-8. [PMID: 19429940 DOI: 10.1136/vr.164.19.597] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- K Aharonson-Raz
- Western College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Saskatchewan, 52 Campus Drive, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan S7N 5B4, Canada
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