1
|
Kuručki M, Sukara R, Ćirković V, Ćirović D, Tomanović S. Molecular Detection and Genetic Variability of Hepatozoon canis in Golden Jackals ( Canis aureus L. 1758) in Serbia. BIOLOGY 2024; 13:411. [PMID: 38927291 PMCID: PMC11201132 DOI: 10.3390/biology13060411] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2024] [Revised: 05/27/2024] [Accepted: 05/31/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024]
Abstract
Hepatozoon canis is a protozoan tick-borne parasite infecting domestic and wild canids, including foxes, wolves, and jackals. It is mainly found in dogs but has also been detected in several wild carnivores, including foxes, wolves, and jackals. Host transmission primarily occurs through the ingestion of infected ticks, typically Rhipicephalus sanguineus, with documented instances of transplacental transmission from infected females to cubs. In Serbia, the golden jackal is common throughout the country, and its population has increased in recent years. Previous research has documented the presence of several vector-borne pathogens in the jackal population in Serbia, so we conducted this study to determine the presence, prevalence, and genetic variability of H. canis. Over eleven years (2010-2020), 114 animal samples were collected from 23 localities in Serbia. A total of 90/114 (78.95%) jackals were positive for H. canis, and they came from 22 localities. Among 15 juveniles, almost half (6/15 (40%)) tested positive for H. canis. In addition to the high prevalence, high genetic variability of the pathogen was also found. According to the mutated positions, four sequence types (S4-S7) of H. canis were determined. Based on our earlier research on the grey wolf and on this study, it can be observed that various sequence types of H. canis circulate within wild canid populations in Serbia. The prevalence of H. canis infection in wild carnivores raises significant concerns for wildlife conservation and animal health. Infected animals may act as reservoirs for the disease, posing a potential risk to domestic animals by acting as a source of infection.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Milica Kuručki
- Faculty of Biology, University of Belgrade, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia;
| | - Ratko Sukara
- Group for Medical Entomology, Centre of Excellence for Food- and Vector-Borne Zoonoses, Institute for Medical Research, National Institute of Republic of Serbia, University of Belgrade, 11129 Belgrade, Serbia; (R.S.); (V.Ć.); (S.T.)
| | - Valentina Ćirković
- Group for Medical Entomology, Centre of Excellence for Food- and Vector-Borne Zoonoses, Institute for Medical Research, National Institute of Republic of Serbia, University of Belgrade, 11129 Belgrade, Serbia; (R.S.); (V.Ć.); (S.T.)
| | - Duško Ćirović
- Faculty of Biology, University of Belgrade, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia;
| | - Snežana Tomanović
- Group for Medical Entomology, Centre of Excellence for Food- and Vector-Borne Zoonoses, Institute for Medical Research, National Institute of Republic of Serbia, University of Belgrade, 11129 Belgrade, Serbia; (R.S.); (V.Ć.); (S.T.)
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Thomas R, Santodomingo A, Saboya-Acosta L, Quintero-Galvis JF, Moreno L, Uribe JE, Muñoz-Leal S. Hepatozoon (Eucoccidiorida: Hepatozoidae) in wild mammals of the Americas: a systematic review. Parasit Vectors 2024; 17:108. [PMID: 38444020 PMCID: PMC10916324 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-024-06154-3] [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: 11/27/2023] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 03/07/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The study of parasites provides insight into intricate ecological relationships in ecosystem dynamics, food web structures, and evolution on multiple scales. Hepatozoon Eucoccidiorida: Hepatozoidae) is a genus of protozoan hemoparasites with heteroxenous life cycles that switch infections between vertebrates and blood-feeding invertebrates. The most comprehensive review of the genus was published 26 years ago, and currently there are no harmonized data on the epizootiology, diagnostics, genotyping methods, evolutionary relationships, and genetic diversity of Hepatozoon in the Americas. METHODS Here, we provide a comprehensive review based on the PRISMA method regarding Hepatozoon in wild mammals within the American continent, in order to generate a framework for future research. RESULTS 11 out of the 35 countries of the Americas (31.4%) had data on Hepatozoon, with Carnivora and Rodentia orders having the most characterizations. Bats, ungulates, and shrews were the least affected groups. While Hepatozoon americanum, H. americanum-like, H. canis, H. didelphydis, H. felis, H. milleri, H. griseisciuri, and H. procyonis correspond to the identified species, a plethora of genospecies is pending for a formal description combining morphology and genetics. Most of the vectors of Hepatozoon in the Americas are unknown, but some flea, mite, and tick species have been confirmed. The detection of Hepatozoon has relied mostly on conventional polymerase chain reaction (PCR), and the implementation of specific real time PCR for the genus needs to be employed to improve its diagnosis in wild animals in the future. From a genetic perspective, the V4 region of the 18S rRNA gene has been widely sequenced for the identification of Hepatozoon in wild animals. However, mitochondrial and apicoplast markers should also be targeted to truly determine different species in the genus. A phylogenetic analysis of herein retrieved 18S ribosomal DNA (rDNA) sequences showed two main clades of Hepatozoon: Clade I associated with small mammals, birds, and herpetozoa, and Clade II associated with Carnivora. The topology of the tree is also reflected in the haplotype network. CONCLUSIONS Finally, our review emphasizes Hepatozoon as a potential disease agent in threatened wild mammals and the role of wild canids as spreaders of Hepatozoon infections in the Americas.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Richard Thomas
- Departamento de Ciencia Animal, Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias, Universidad de Concepción, Chillán, Chile
| | - Adriana Santodomingo
- Departamento de Ciencia Animal, Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias, Universidad de Concepción, Chillán, Chile
| | - Liliana Saboya-Acosta
- Pontificia Universidad Javeriana, Facultad de Estudios Ambientales y Rurales, Doctorado en Estudios Ambientales y Rurales, Carrera 7 N 40-62, Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Julian F Quintero-Galvis
- Instituto de Ciencias Ambientales y Evolutivas, Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia, Chile
- Millenium Nucleus of Patagonian Limit of Life (LiLi), Valdivia, Chile
| | - Lucila Moreno
- Departamento de Zoología, Facultad de Ciencias Naturales y Oceanográficas, Universidad de Concepción, Concepción, Chile
| | - Juan E Uribe
- Departamento de Biodiversidad y Biología Evolutiva, Museo Nacional de Ciencias Naturales (MNCN-CSIC), Madrid, Spain
| | - Sebastián Muñoz-Leal
- Departamento de Ciencia Animal, Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias, Universidad de Concepción, Chillán, Chile.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Charles RA, Pow-Brown P, Gordon-Dillon A, Blake L, Nicholls S, Brown-Jordan A, Caruth J, Sant C, Pargass I, Basu A, Albina E, Oura C, Georges K. Completing the Puzzle: A Cluster of Hunting Dogs with Tick-Borne Illness from a Fishing Community in Tobago, West Indies. Pathogens 2024; 13:161. [PMID: 38392899 PMCID: PMC10891510 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens13020161] [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: 12/27/2023] [Revised: 02/07/2024] [Accepted: 02/08/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Eight hunting dogs were visited by a state veterinarian on the island of Tobago, Trinidad and Tobago, West Indies, as owners reported anorexia and paralysis in five of their dogs. The veterinarian observed a combination of clinical signs consistent with tick-borne illness, including fever, anorexia, anaemia, lethargy and paralysis. Blood and ticks were collected from each dog and submitted to a diagnostic laboratory for analysis. Microscopic analysis revealed a mixed infection of intracytoplasmic organisms consistent with Babesia spp. (erythrocyte) and Ehrlichia spp. (monocyte), respectively, from one dog, while a complete blood count indicated a regenerative anaemia (n = 1; 12.5%), non-regenerative anaemia (n = 4; 50%), neutrophilia (n = 3; 37.5%), lymphocytosis (n = 2; 25%), thrombocytopaenia (n = 3; 37.5%) and pancytopaenia (n = 1; 12.5%). DNA isolated from the eight blood samples and 20 ticks (16 Rhipicephalus sanguineus and 4 Amblyomma ovale) were subjected to conventional PCR and next-generation sequencing of the 16S rRNA and 18S rRNA gene for Anaplasma/Ehrlichia and Babesia/Theileria/Hepatozoon, respectively. The DNA of Ehrlichia spp., closely related to Ehrlichia canis, was detected in the blood of three dogs (37.5%), Anaplasma spp., closely related to Anaplasma marginale, in two (25%), Babesia vogeli in one dog (12.5%) and seven ticks (35%) and Hepatozoon canis and Anaplasma spp., in one tick (5%), respectively. These findings highlight the need to test both the vector and host for the presence of tick-borne pathogens when undertaking diagnostic investigations. Further studies are also warranted to elucidate the susceptibility of canids to Anaplasma marginale.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Roxanne A. Charles
- School of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Medical Sciences, The University of the West Indies, St. Augustine, Trinidad and Tobago; (P.P.-B.); (L.B.); (C.S.); (I.P.); (A.B.); (C.O.); (K.G.)
| | - Patricia Pow-Brown
- School of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Medical Sciences, The University of the West Indies, St. Augustine, Trinidad and Tobago; (P.P.-B.); (L.B.); (C.S.); (I.P.); (A.B.); (C.O.); (K.G.)
| | - Annika Gordon-Dillon
- Animal Health Unit, Division of Food Security, Natural Resources, The Environment and Sustainable Development, Tobago House of Assembly, Milshirv Administrative Complex, Corner Milford & Shirvan Road, Tobago, Trinidad and Tobago; (A.G.-D.); (J.C.)
| | - Lemar Blake
- School of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Medical Sciences, The University of the West Indies, St. Augustine, Trinidad and Tobago; (P.P.-B.); (L.B.); (C.S.); (I.P.); (A.B.); (C.O.); (K.G.)
| | - Soren Nicholls
- Department of Preclinical Sciences, Faculty of Medical Sciences, The University of the West Indies, St. Augustine, Trinidad and Tobago; (S.N.); (A.B.-J.)
| | - Arianne Brown-Jordan
- Department of Preclinical Sciences, Faculty of Medical Sciences, The University of the West Indies, St. Augustine, Trinidad and Tobago; (S.N.); (A.B.-J.)
| | - Joanne Caruth
- Animal Health Unit, Division of Food Security, Natural Resources, The Environment and Sustainable Development, Tobago House of Assembly, Milshirv Administrative Complex, Corner Milford & Shirvan Road, Tobago, Trinidad and Tobago; (A.G.-D.); (J.C.)
| | - Candice Sant
- School of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Medical Sciences, The University of the West Indies, St. Augustine, Trinidad and Tobago; (P.P.-B.); (L.B.); (C.S.); (I.P.); (A.B.); (C.O.); (K.G.)
| | - Indira Pargass
- School of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Medical Sciences, The University of the West Indies, St. Augustine, Trinidad and Tobago; (P.P.-B.); (L.B.); (C.S.); (I.P.); (A.B.); (C.O.); (K.G.)
| | - Asoke Basu
- School of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Medical Sciences, The University of the West Indies, St. Augustine, Trinidad and Tobago; (P.P.-B.); (L.B.); (C.S.); (I.P.); (A.B.); (C.O.); (K.G.)
| | - Emmanuel Albina
- Centre de coopération internationale en recherche agronomique pour le développement (CIRAD), DGDRS, 34000 Montpellier, France;
| | - Christopher Oura
- School of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Medical Sciences, The University of the West Indies, St. Augustine, Trinidad and Tobago; (P.P.-B.); (L.B.); (C.S.); (I.P.); (A.B.); (C.O.); (K.G.)
| | - Karla Georges
- School of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Medical Sciences, The University of the West Indies, St. Augustine, Trinidad and Tobago; (P.P.-B.); (L.B.); (C.S.); (I.P.); (A.B.); (C.O.); (K.G.)
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Uiterwijk M, Vojta L, Šprem N, Beck A, Jurković D, Kik M, Duscher GG, Hodžić A, Reljić S, Sprong H, Beck R. Diversity of Hepatozoon species in wild mammals and ticks in Europe. Parasit Vectors 2023; 16:27. [PMID: 36694253 PMCID: PMC9872412 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-022-05626-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2022] [Accepted: 12/18/2022] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hepatozoon spp. are tick-borne parasites causing subclinical to clinical disease in wild and domestic animals. Aim of this study was to determine Hepatozoon prevalence and species distribution among wild mammals and ticks in Europe. METHODS Samples of wild mammals and ticks, originating from Austria, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Croatia, Belgium and the Netherlands, were tested with PCR to amplify a ~ 670-bp fragment of the small subunit ribosomal RNA gene. RESULTS Of the 2801 mammal samples that were used for this study, 370 (13.2%) tested positive. Hepatozoon canis was detected in samples of 178 animals (3 Artiodactyla, 173 Carnivora, 1 Eulipotyphia, 1 Lagomorpha), H. martis in 125 (3 Artiodactyla, 122 Carnivora), H. sciuri in 13 (all Rodentia), Hepatozoon sp. in 47 (among which Hepatozoon sp. Vole isolate, all Rodentia) and H. ayorgbor in 4 (all Rodentia). Regarding origin, 2.9% (6/208) tested positive from Austria, 2.8% (1/36) from Bosnia and Herzegovina, 14.6% (173/1186) from Croatia and 13.9% (190/1371) from Belgium/the Netherlands. Of the 754 ticks collected, 0.0% (0/35) Hyalomma sp., 16.0% (4/25) Dermacentor spp., 0.0% (0/23) Haemaphysalis spp., 5.3% (24/50) Ixodes and 1.4% (3/221) Rhipicephalus spp. tested positive for Hepatozoon (4.2%; 32/754), most often H. canis (n = 22). CONCLUSIONS Hepatozoon canis is most present in mammals (especially in Carnivora such as gray wolves and golden jackals) and ticks, followed by H. martis, which was found merely in stone martens and pine martens. None of the rodent-associated Hepatozoon spp. were detected in the ticks, suggesting the possible implication of other arthropod species or non-vectorial routes in the transmission cycle of the hemoprotozoans in rodents. Our findings of H. canis in ticks other than R. sanguineus add to the observation that other ticks are also involved in the life cycle of Hepatozoon. Now that presence of Hepatozoon has been demonstrated in red foxes, gray wolves, mustelids and rodents from the Netherlands and/or Belgium, veterinary clinicians should be aware of the possibility of spill-over to domestic animals, such as dogs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mathilde Uiterwijk
- grid.435742.30000 0001 0726 7822Centre for Monitoring of Vectors (CMV), Netherlands Institute for Vectors, Invasive plants and Plant health (NIVIP), Netherlands Food and Consumer Product Safety Authority (NVWA), Wageningen, the Netherlands
| | - Lea Vojta
- grid.4905.80000 0004 0635 7705Division of Molecular Biology, Laboratory for Molecular Plant Biology and Biotechnology, Rudjer Boskovic Institute, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Nikica Šprem
- grid.4808.40000 0001 0657 4636Department of Fisheries, Apiculture, Wildlife Management and Special Zoology, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Ana Beck
- grid.4808.40000 0001 0657 4636Department of Veterinary Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Daria Jurković
- grid.417625.30000 0004 0367 0309Laboratory for Parasitology, Department for Bacteriology and Parasitology, Croatian Veterinary Institute, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Marja Kik
- grid.5477.10000000120346234Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Dutch Wildlife Health Centre, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Georg G. Duscher
- grid.414107.70000 0001 2224 6253Austrian Agency for Health & Food Safety (AGES), Vienna, Austria
| | - Adnan Hodžić
- grid.10420.370000 0001 2286 1424Centre for Microbiology and Environmental System Science (CMESS), Department of Microbiology and Ecosystem Science, Division of Microbial Ecology (DoME), University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Slaven Reljić
- grid.4808.40000 0001 0657 4636Department of Forensic and State Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Hein Sprong
- Centre of Infectious Disease Control of the National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (Cib-RIVM), Bilthoven, the Netherlands
| | - Relja Beck
- grid.417625.30000 0004 0367 0309Laboratory for Parasitology, Department for Bacteriology and Parasitology, Croatian Veterinary Institute, Zagreb, Croatia
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Alabí AS, Monti G, Otth C, Sepulveda-García P, Perles L, Machado RZ, André MR, Bittencourt P, Müller A. Genetic diversity of Hepatozoon spp. in rodents from Chile. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2021; 30:e012721. [PMID: 34755807 DOI: 10.1590/s1984-29612021082] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2021] [Accepted: 09/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
This study aimed to investigate the genetic diversity of Hepatozoon spp. in rodents from Valdivia, Chile. A total of 74 rodents (synanthropic n=38; wild n=36) were trapped in Valdivia. We performed conventional PCR assays for Apicomplexa organisms targeting two overlapping 18S rDNA gene fragments (600 bp and 900 bp) followed by sequencing of selected amplicons. Hepatozoon spp. occurrence was 82.43% (61/74). Twelve sequences obtained from the 600 bp and ten from the 900 bp 18S rDNA fragments were identified as Hepatozoon sp. Six sequences obtained from 18S rDNA-based overlapping PCR protocols were used for concatenated (1,400 bp) phylogenetic, haplotype and distance analyses. Hepatozoon spp. 18S rDNA concatenated sequences from the present study were detected in Oligoryzomys longicaudatus, Rattus norvegicus, Mus musculus, and Abrothrix longipilis grouped with Hepatozoon species earlier described in rodents and reptiles from Chile and Brazil. Nucleotide polymorphism of the six 18S rDNA sequences (1,400 bp) from this study, and other Chilean sequences from rodents and rodent's ticks, showed high diversity with a total of nine Chilean haplotypes. Three haplotypes from Valdivia were identified for the first time in this study, suggesting the circulation of novel haplotypes in rodents from southern Chile.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Amir Salvador Alabí
- Instituto de Ciencias Clínicas Veterinarias, Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias, Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia, Chile
| | - Gustavo Monti
- Insituto de Medicina Preventiva Veterinaria, Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias, Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia, Chile
| | - Carola Otth
- Instituto de Microbiologia Clínica, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia, Chile
| | - Paulina Sepulveda-García
- Instituto de Ciencias Clínicas Veterinarias, Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias, Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia, Chile
| | - Livia Perles
- Departamento de Patologia, Reprodução e Saúde Única, Faculdade de Ciências Agrárias e Veterinarias - FCAV, Universidade Estadual Paulista - UNESP, Jaboticabal, SP, Brasil
| | - Rosangela Zacarias Machado
- Departamento de Patologia, Reprodução e Saúde Única, Faculdade de Ciências Agrárias e Veterinarias - FCAV, Universidade Estadual Paulista - UNESP, Jaboticabal, SP, Brasil
| | - Marcos Rogério André
- Departamento de Patologia, Reprodução e Saúde Única, Faculdade de Ciências Agrárias e Veterinarias - FCAV, Universidade Estadual Paulista - UNESP, Jaboticabal, SP, Brasil
| | - Pedro Bittencourt
- One Health Center for Zoonoses and Tropical Veterinary Medicine, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine, Basseterre, Saint Kitts and Nevis, West Indies
| | - Ananda Müller
- Instituto de Ciencias Clínicas Veterinarias, Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias, Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia, Chile.,One Health Center for Zoonoses and Tropical Veterinary Medicine, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine, Basseterre, Saint Kitts and Nevis, West Indies
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Saleh MN, Allen KE, Lineberry MW, Little SE, Reichard MV. Ticks infesting dogs and cats in North America: Biology, geographic distribution, and pathogen transmission. Vet Parasitol 2021; 294:109392. [PMID: 33971481 PMCID: PMC9235321 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2021.109392] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2020] [Revised: 01/20/2021] [Accepted: 02/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
A diverse array of ixodid and argasid ticks infest dogs and cats in North America, resulting in skin lesions, blood loss, and disease. The ticks most commonly found on pets in this region are hard ticks of the genera Amblyomma, Dermacentor, Ixodes, and Rhipicephalus, as well as the more recently established Haemaphysalis longicornis. Soft tick genera, especially Otobius and Ornithodoros, are also reported from pets in some regions. In this review, we provide a summary of the complex and diverse life histories, distinct morphologies, and questing and feeding behaviors of the more common ticks of dogs and cats in North America with a focus on recent changes in geographic distribution. We also review pathogens of dogs and cats associated with the different tick species, some of which can cause serious, potentially fatal disease, and describe the zoonotic risk posed by ticks of pets. Understanding the natural history of ticks and the maintenance cycles responsible for providing an ongoing source of tick-borne infections is critical to effectively combatting the challenges ticks pose to the health of pets and people.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Meriam N Saleh
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, Oklahoma, 74078, United States
| | - Kelly E Allen
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, Oklahoma, 74078, United States.
| | - Megan W Lineberry
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, Oklahoma, 74078, United States
| | - Susan E Little
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, Oklahoma, 74078, United States
| | - Mason V Reichard
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, Oklahoma, 74078, United States
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Pereira FMA, de Oliveira AR, Mattioli MP, Zanani NS, Paludo GR. Diffuse periosteal reaction in a pet European rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus) positive to Hepatozoon sp. J Exot Pet Med 2021. [DOI: 10.1053/j.jepm.2020.10.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
|
8
|
Moustafa MAM, Sasaki A, Shimozuru M, Nakao R, Sashika M, Yamazaki K, Koike S, Tanaka J, Tamatani H, Yamanaka M, Ishinazaka T, Tsubota T. Molecular detection of apicomplexan protozoa in Hokkaido brown bears (Ursus arctos yesoensis) and Japanese black bears (Ursus thibetanus japonicus). Parasitol Res 2020; 119:3739-3753. [PMID: 33000433 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-020-06873-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2020] [Accepted: 08/30/2020] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Many tick-borne pathogens (TBPs) are present in wildlife. The objective of this study is to reveal the role of wild bears in maintaining TBPs. A total of 49 brown bears (Ursus arctos yesoensis) from Hokkaido, and 18 Japanese black bears (Ursus thibetanus japonicus) from Tochigi, and 66 Japanese black bears from Nagano were examined by two molecular methods, reverse line blot (RLB) hybridization, and nested PCR. A total of 5 TBPs (Hepatozoon ursi, Babesia sp. UR2-like group, Cytauxzoon sp. UR1, Babesia sp. UR1, and Babesia microti) were detected from bear blood DNA samples. B. microti was detected from blood DNA samples of Japanese black bear for the first time, with the prevalence of 6.0% (5/84). Out of detected pathogens, H. ursi, Babesia sp. UR2-like pathogens, and Cytauxzoon sp. UR1 were considered as three of the most prevalent TBPs in bears. The prevalence of H. ursi were significantly higher in Japanese black bear (0% vs 96.4%) while that of Babesia sp. UR2-like group was higher in Hokkaido brown bears (89.8% vs 40.5%). The prevalence of Babesia sp. UR1 were significantly higher in Japanese black bears from Tochigi (44.4%), comparing with those from Nagano (18.2%). The prevalence of the detected TBPs were significantly higher in adult bears, comparing with those in younger bears. The present study suggests that Japanese bear species contribute in the transmission of several TBPs in Japan. The expanding distribution of bears might cause the accidental transmission of TBPs to humans and domestic animals.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mohamed Abdallah Mohamed Moustafa
- Laboratory of Parasitology, Graduate School of Veterinary Medicine, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Hokkaido, Japan.,Department of Animal Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, South Valley University, Qena, Egypt
| | - Ayaka Sasaki
- Laboratory of Wildlife Biology and Medicine, Department of Environmental Veterinary Sciences, Graduate School of Veterinary Medicine, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Michito Shimozuru
- Laboratory of Wildlife Biology and Medicine, Department of Environmental Veterinary Sciences, Graduate School of Veterinary Medicine, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Ryo Nakao
- Laboratory of Parasitology, Graduate School of Veterinary Medicine, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Hokkaido, Japan
| | - Mariko Sashika
- Laboratory of Wildlife Biology and Medicine, Department of Environmental Veterinary Sciences, Graduate School of Veterinary Medicine, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Koji Yamazaki
- Department of Forest Science, Tokyo University of Agriculture, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Shinsuke Koike
- Institute of Global Innovation Research, Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, Tokyo, Japan.,United Graduate School of Agriculture Science, Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Junpei Tanaka
- Picchio Wildlife Research Center, Karuizawa, Nagano, Japan
| | - Hiroo Tamatani
- Picchio Wildlife Research Center, Karuizawa, Nagano, Japan
| | | | | | - Toshio Tsubota
- Laboratory of Wildlife Biology and Medicine, Department of Environmental Veterinary Sciences, Graduate School of Veterinary Medicine, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Japan.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Díaz-Sánchez AA, Hofmann-Lehmann R, Meli ML, Roblejo-Arias L, Fonseca-Rodríguez O, Castillo AP, Cañizares EV, Rivero EL, Chilton NB, Corona-González B. Molecular detection and characterization of Hepatozoon canis in stray dogs from Cuba. Parasitol Int 2020; 80:102200. [PMID: 32980550 DOI: 10.1016/j.parint.2020.102200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2020] [Revised: 07/09/2020] [Accepted: 07/15/2020] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Canine hepatozoonosis caused by Hepatozoon canis is a worldwide distributed tick-borne disease of domestic and wild canids that is transmitted by ingestion of Rhipicephalus sanguineus sensu lato (s.l.) ticks. The present study was aimed to determine the prevalence of Hepatozoon infections in 80 stray dogs from Havana Province in Cuba, and to confirm the species identity and phylogenetic relationships of the causative agent. Samples were screened by microscopical examination of thin blood smears for the presence of Hepatozoon spp. gamonts and by genus-specific SYBR green-based real-time PCR assay targeting the 18S rRNA gene. Direct microscopy examination revealed Hepatozoon gamonts in the peripheral blood of 8 dogs (10.0%; 95% CI: 4.80-18.0%), while 38 animals (47.5%; 95% CI: 36.8-58.4%) were PCR-positive, including all microscopically positive dogs. Hence, the agreement between the two detection methods was 'poor' (κ = 0.20). Hematological parameters did not differ significantly between PCR-positive and PCR-negative dogs (p > 0.05). The DNA sequences of the 18S rRNA gene of the Hepatozoon spp. from Cuban dogs showed a nucleotide identity >99% with those of 18S rRNA sequences of Hepatozoon canis isolates from Czech Republic, Brazil and Spain. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that obtained sequences clustered within the Hepatozoon canis clade, different from the Hepatozoon felis or Hepatozoon americanum clades. The present study represents the first molecular characterization of Hepatozoon canis in stray dogs within Cuba.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Adrian Alberto Díaz-Sánchez
- Centro Nacional de Sanidad Agropecuaria (CENSA), Carretera de Tapaste y Autopista Nacional, Apartado postal 10, 32700 San José de las Lajas, Mayabeque, Cuba; Clinical Laboratory, Department of Clinical Diagnostics and Services, and Center for Clinical Studies, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland; Department of Biology, University of Saskatchewan, 112 Science Place, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan S7N 5E2, Canada
| | - Regina Hofmann-Lehmann
- Clinical Laboratory, Department of Clinical Diagnostics and Services, and Center for Clinical Studies, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Marina L Meli
- Clinical Laboratory, Department of Clinical Diagnostics and Services, and Center for Clinical Studies, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Lisset Roblejo-Arias
- Centro Nacional de Sanidad Agropecuaria (CENSA), Carretera de Tapaste y Autopista Nacional, Apartado postal 10, 32700 San José de las Lajas, Mayabeque, Cuba
| | | | - Anisleidy Pérez Castillo
- Centro Nacional de Sanidad Agropecuaria (CENSA), Carretera de Tapaste y Autopista Nacional, Apartado postal 10, 32700 San José de las Lajas, Mayabeque, Cuba
| | - Ernesto Vega Cañizares
- Centro Nacional de Sanidad Agropecuaria (CENSA), Carretera de Tapaste y Autopista Nacional, Apartado postal 10, 32700 San José de las Lajas, Mayabeque, Cuba
| | - Evelyn Lobo Rivero
- Centro Nacional de Sanidad Agropecuaria (CENSA), Carretera de Tapaste y Autopista Nacional, Apartado postal 10, 32700 San José de las Lajas, Mayabeque, Cuba
| | - Neil B Chilton
- Department of Biology, University of Saskatchewan, 112 Science Place, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan S7N 5E2, Canada
| | - Belkis Corona-González
- Centro Nacional de Sanidad Agropecuaria (CENSA), Carretera de Tapaste y Autopista Nacional, Apartado postal 10, 32700 San José de las Lajas, Mayabeque, Cuba.
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Perles L, Ikeda P, Francisco GDV, Torres JM, de Oliveira CE, Lourenço EC, Herrera HM, Machado RZ, André MR. Molecular detection of Hepatozoon spp. in non-hematophagous bats in Brazil. Ticks Tick Borne Dis 2020; 11:101401. [PMID: 32014465 DOI: 10.1016/j.ttbdis.2020.101401] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2019] [Revised: 01/21/2020] [Accepted: 01/27/2020] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Even though Hepatozoon spp. has been molecularly detected in several wild animals in Brazil, there is no report on the occurrence of Hepatozoon spp. DNA in bats in Brazil. This study aimed at detecting Hepatozoon, in addition to ectoparasites, in non-hematophagous bats sampled in central-western Brazil using blood smears, hematoxylin-eosin (HE)-staining liver/spleen preparations and molecular and phylogenetic techniques. A total of 135 spleen, 127 liver, and 133 blood samples were collected from 135 non-hematophagous bats from 12 different species in two different sites in Campo Grande, Mato Grosso do Sul state, in the Brazilian Cerrado region. Spleen and blood DNA samples were submitted to two conventional PCR protocols for Hepatozoon spp. based on 18S rRNA. No Hepatozoon spp. gamonts or meronts were observed in blood smears and HE-stained-liver preparations, respectively. While none of the spleen samples was positive for Hepatozoon spp. in the PCR assays, 5 (3 %) blood samples contained 18S rRNA Hepatozoon DNA, including 2/37 (5 %) Artibeus lituratus, 2/32 (6 %) A. planirostris, and 1/23 (4 %) Platyrrhinus lineatus. Out of 5 bats positive for Hepatozoon spp., 3 were parasitized by either Macronyssidae/Spinturnicidae mites or Streblidae flies. BLAST analysis showed that the sequences detected in bats had >99 % identity with Hepatozoon sequences detected in amphibians and reptiles from Brazil, including Hepatozoon caimani detected in Caiman crocodilus. The phylogenetic inferences estimated by the Maximum Likelihood and Bayesian methods clustered the Hepatozoon sequences detected in Brazilian bats with those detected in reptiles and amphibians.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lívia Perles
- Laboratório de Imunoparasitologia, Departamento de Patologia Veterinária, Universidade Estadual "Júlio de Mesquita Filho", Jaboticabal, Brazil
| | - Priscila Ikeda
- Laboratório de Imunoparasitologia, Departamento de Patologia Veterinária, Universidade Estadual "Júlio de Mesquita Filho", Jaboticabal, Brazil
| | - Gabriela de Vasconcellos Francisco
- Laboratório de Imunoparasitologia, Departamento de Patologia Veterinária, Universidade Estadual "Júlio de Mesquita Filho", Jaboticabal, Brazil
| | - Jaire Marinho Torres
- Laboratório de Imunoparasitologia, Departamento de Patologia Veterinária, Universidade Estadual "Júlio de Mesquita Filho", Jaboticabal, Brazil; Laboratório de Ciências Ambientais e Sustentabilidade Agropecuária, Universidade Católica Dom Bosco, Campo Grande, Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil; Laboratório de Ecologia de Mamíferos, Universidade do Estado do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Carina Elisei de Oliveira
- Laboratório de Ciências Ambientais e Sustentabilidade Agropecuária, Universidade Católica Dom Bosco, Campo Grande, Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil
| | | | - Heitor Miraglia Herrera
- Laboratório de Ciências Ambientais e Sustentabilidade Agropecuária, Universidade Católica Dom Bosco, Campo Grande, Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil
| | - Rosangela Zacarias Machado
- Laboratório de Imunoparasitologia, Departamento de Patologia Veterinária, Universidade Estadual "Júlio de Mesquita Filho", Jaboticabal, Brazil; Laboratório de Ciências Ambientais e Sustentabilidade Agropecuária, Universidade Católica Dom Bosco, Campo Grande, Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil; Laboratório de Ecologia de Mamíferos, Universidade do Estado do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Marcos Rogério André
- Laboratório de Imunoparasitologia, Departamento de Patologia Veterinária, Universidade Estadual "Júlio de Mesquita Filho", Jaboticabal, Brazil.
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Genetic diversity of Hepatozoon spp. in rodents from Brazil. Sci Rep 2019; 9:10122. [PMID: 31300712 PMCID: PMC6626033 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-46662-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2019] [Accepted: 07/03/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatozoon spp. are Apicomplexan protozoa that parasitize a wide diversity of vertebrate hosts. In Brazil, few studies have reported the occurrence of Hepatozoon spp. in rodent species. Additionally, an evaluation of the population structure and distribution of Hepatozoon species over several Brazilian biomes has not yet been performed. The present work aimed to investigate the genetic diversity of Hepatozoon spp. in rodents from 31 genera sampled in five Brazilian biomes. Samples were submitted to PCR assays for Hepatozoon spp. targeting two regions of the 18S rRNA gene. Infection by Hepatozoon spp. was detected in 195 (42.2%) rodents comprising 24 genera. Phylogenetic analyses of 18S rRNA sequences grouped all sequences in the clade of Hepatozoon spp. previously detected in rodents and reptiles, apart from those detected in domestic/wild carnivores. These data raise two non-exclusive hypotheses: (i) rodents play an important role as intermediate or paratenic hosts for Hepatozoon infections in reptiles; and (ii) rodents do not seem to participate in the epidemiology of Hepatozoon infections of domestic/wild canids and felids in Brazil. TCS analyses performed with available 18S rRNA Hepatozoon sequences detected in rodents from Brazil showed the occurrence of six haplotypes, which were distributed in two large groups: one from rodents inhabiting the coastal region of Brazil and Mato Grosso state, and another from rodents from the central region of the country. A wide survey of the South American territory will help to elucidate the evolutionary history of Hepatozoon spp. parasitizing Rodentia in the American continent.
Collapse
|
12
|
A paradise for parasites? Seven new haemogregarine species infecting lizards from the Canary Islands. Parasitology 2019; 146:728-739. [PMID: 30871644 DOI: 10.1017/s0031182018002160] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
Oceanic islands are hotspots of biodiversity due to their high levels of endemism, with the Canary Islands being a notable example. A previous molecular study on the biogeography and host associations of haemogregarines (Apicomplexa: Adeleorina) infecting lizards from this archipelago detected seven parasite haplogroups. These haplogroups exhibited high host-specificity and geographical structure, suggesting that they might correspond to distinct biological identities. In this study, along with sequencing a longer fragment of the 18S rRNA, we further explore the distinctiveness of these parasites by analysing their morphology, effects on host erythrocytes and parasitaemia levels. These lines of evidence together with their genetics, host associations, frequency of occurrence and geographical distribution support them as different biological entities. As such, we describe seven new species: Karyolysus canariensis sp. nov., Karyolysus galloti sp. nov., Karyolysus stehlini sp. nov., Karyolysus gomerensis sp. nov., Karyolysus atlanticus sp. nov., Karyolysus tinerfensis sp. nov. and Karyolysus makariogeckonis sp. nov. These new taxa are further examples of endemic diversity in the Canarian archipelago. They also contribute to clarify the taxonomy within the Apicomplexa, a phylum estimated to have one of the lowest percentages of described species.
Collapse
|
13
|
Barati A, Razmi GR. A Parasitologic and Molecular Survey of Hepatozoon canis Infection In Stray Dogs In Northeastern Iran. J Parasitol 2018; 104:413-417. [DOI: 10.1645/17-105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- A. Barati
- Department of Pathobiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, P.O. Box 91775-1793, Mashhad, Iran
| | - G. R. Razmi
- Department of Pathobiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, P.O. Box 91775-1793, Mashhad, Iran
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Hepatozoon apri n. sp. (Adeleorina: Hepatozoidae) from the Japanese wild boar Sus scrofa leucomystax (Mammalia: Cetartiodactyla). INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL FOR PARASITOLOGY-PARASITES AND WILDLIFE 2017; 6:354-360. [PMID: 29556469 PMCID: PMC5853518 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijppaw.2017.11.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2017] [Revised: 11/09/2017] [Accepted: 11/11/2017] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
Abstract
Hepatozoon apri n. sp. is described from Japanese wild boars Sus scrofa leucomystax in Japan. The gamonts in the peripheral blood leukocytes were 11.6 ± 1.4 × 6.7 ± 1.3 μm in size. The meronts in the muscle tissues were 35.0–47.5 μm in length and 26.5–30 μm in width. A high rate (53.0%) of infection was found by nested PCR using muscle specimens from 181 wild boars captured in Tokushima, Japan. A phylogenetic analysis based on 18S rRNA gene sequences revealed that H. apri n. sp. detected in wild boars is closely related to Hepatozoon spp. isolated from carnivores. This is the first description of a species belonging to the genus Hepatozoon detected in ungulates. Hepatozoon apri n. sp. from Japanese wild boars was described. The newly described isolates were closely related to Hepatozoon from carnivores. H. apri n. sp. is widely distributed among wild boars (infection rate, 53%).
Collapse
|
15
|
Braga ÍA, de Souza Ramos DG, Marcili A, Melo ALT, Taques IIGG, Amude AM, Chitarra CS, Nakazato L, Dutra V, de Campos Pacheco R, Aguiar DM. Molecular detection of tick-borne protozoan parasites in a population of domestic cats in midwestern Brazil. Ticks Tick Borne Dis 2016; 7:1004-1009. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ttbdis.2016.05.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2015] [Revised: 05/05/2016] [Accepted: 05/17/2016] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
|
16
|
Hepatozoon spp. infections in wild rodents in an area of endemic canine hepatozoonosis in southeastern Brazil. Ticks Tick Borne Dis 2016; 7:859-864. [PMID: 27091081 DOI: 10.1016/j.ttbdis.2016.04.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2016] [Revised: 04/06/2016] [Accepted: 04/07/2016] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Hepatozoon canis is a tick-borne parasite that occurs worldwide. In rural areas of Brazil, H. canis vectors remain unknown, which has led to speculation about alternative routes of transmission. Small rodents can play a role in the transmission (via predation) of Hepatozoon americanum, which led us to question whether predation might be an alternative mode of transmission for H. canis. Thus, this study investigated whether Hepatozoon spp. are present in wild small rodents in forest fragments that surround rural areas in Botucatu County, São Paulo, Brazil, where canine hepatozoonosis is endemic. The study included blood samples from 158 dogs, which were screened by microscopy and molecular analysis. Blood samples and tissues from 67 rodents were obtained for histopathology and molecular detection. The prevalence of H. canis was high (66.45%) in dogs from rural areas of Botucatu, São Paulo, Brazil. The molecular analysis showed that wild rodent species in Brazil were infected with Hepatozoon spp. other than H. canis. Therefore, although the hypothesis that sylvatic rodents act as reservoirs for H. canis was not supported, the presence of monozoic cysts in the rodents suggests that, in addition to intermediate hosts, wild small rodents in Brazil might act as paratenic hosts of Hepatozoon spp. because they harbor infective stages for intermediate host predators.
Collapse
|
17
|
Haklová-Kočíková B, Hižňanová A, Majláth I, Račka K, Harris DJ, Földvári G, Tryjanowski P, Kokošová N, Malčeková B, Majláthová V. Morphological and molecular characterization of Karyolysus--a neglected but common parasite infecting some European lizards. Parasit Vectors 2014; 7:555. [PMID: 25492802 PMCID: PMC4298996 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-014-0555-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2014] [Accepted: 11/22/2014] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Blood parasites of the genus Karyolysus Labbé, 1894 (Apicomplexa: Adeleida: Karyolysidae) represent the protozoan haemogregarines found in various genera of lizards, including Lacerta, Podarcis, Darevskia (Lacertidae) and Mabouia (Scincidae). The vectors of parasites are gamasid mites from the genus Ophionyssus. Methods A total of 557 individuals of lacertid lizards were captured in four different localities in Europe (Hungary, Poland, Romania and Slovakia) and blood was collected. Samples were examined using both microscopic and molecular methods, and phylogenetic relationships of all isolates of Karyolysus sp. were assessed for the first time. Karyolysus sp. 18S rRNA isolates were evaluated using Bayesian and Maximum Likelihood analyses. Results A total of 520 blood smears were examined microscopically and unicellular protozoan parasites were found in 116 samples (22.3% prevalence). The presence of two Karyolysus species, K. latus and K. lacazei was identified. In total, of 210 samples tested by polymerase chain reaction (PCR), the presence of parasites was observed in 64 individuals (prevalence 30.5%). Results of phylogenetic analyses revealed the existence of four haplotypes, all part of the same lineage, with other parasites identified as belonging to the genus Hepatozoon. Conclusions Classification of these parasites using current taxonomy is complex - they were identified in both mites and ticks that typically are considered to host Karyolysus and Hepatozoon respectively. Furthermore although distortions to the intermediate host erythrocyte nuclei were observed, the defining characteristic of Karyolysus, the haplotypes were nearly identical to those reported from lizards in the Iberian Peninsula, where such distortions were not reported and which were thus identified as Hepatozoon. Based on the phylogenetic analyses, neither vertebrate host, nor geographical patterns of the studied blood parasites could be established. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s13071-014-0555-x) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Božena Haklová-Kočíková
- Institute of Parasitology, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Hlinkova 3, 040 01, Košice, Slovak Republic.
| | - Adriana Hižňanová
- Institute of Biology and Ecology, University of P. J. Šafárik in Košice, Moyzesova 11, 040 01, Košice, Slovak Republic.
| | - Igor Majláth
- Institute of Parasitology, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Hlinkova 3, 040 01, Košice, Slovak Republic. .,Institute of Biology and Ecology, University of P. J. Šafárik in Košice, Moyzesova 11, 040 01, Košice, Slovak Republic.
| | - Karol Račka
- Department of Parasitology, State Veterinary Institute Jihlava, Rantířovská 93, 586 05, Jihlava, Czech Republic.
| | - David James Harris
- CI-BIO-UP, Centro de Investigação em Biodiversidade e Recursors Genéticos da Universidade do Porto, Campus Agrário de Vairão, 4485-661, Vairão, Portugal.
| | - Gábor Földvári
- Department of Parasitology and Zoology, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Szent István University, 2 István Street, Budapest, H-1078, Hungary.
| | - Piotr Tryjanowski
- Institute of Zoology, Poznań University of Life Sciences, Wojska Polskiego 71 C, 60-625, Poznań, Poland.
| | - Natália Kokošová
- Institute of Biology and Ecology, University of P. J. Šafárik in Košice, Moyzesova 11, 040 01, Košice, Slovak Republic.
| | - Beáta Malčeková
- Department of Biochemical Sciences, Charles University in Prague, Faculty of Pharmacy in Hradec Kralove, Hradec Kralove, Czech Republic.
| | - Viktória Majláthová
- Institute of Parasitology, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Hlinkova 3, 040 01, Košice, Slovak Republic.
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Molecular assessment of Hepatozoon (Apicomplexa: Adeleorina) infections in wild canids and rodents from north Africa, with implications for transmission dynamics across taxonomic groups. J Wildl Dis 2014; 50:837-48. [PMID: 25050803 DOI: 10.7589/2013-10-280] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Parasites play a major role in ecosystems, and understanding of host-parasite interactions is important for predicting parasite transmission dynamics and epidemiology. However, there is still a lack of knowledge about the distribution, diversity, and impact of parasites in wildlife, especially from remote areas. Hepatozoon is a genus of apicomplexan parasites that is transmitted by ingestion of infected arthropod vectors. However, alternative modes of transmission have been identified such as trophic transmission. Using the 18S rRNA gene as a marker, we provide an assessment of Hepatozoon prevalence in six wild canid and two rodent species collected between 2003 and 2012 from remote areas in North Africa. By combining this with other predator-prey systems in a phylogenetic framework, we investigate Hepatozoon transmission dynamics in distinct host taxa. Prevalence was high overall among host species (African jerboa Jaculus jaculus [17/47, 36%], greater Egyptian jerboa Jaculus orientalis [5/7, 71%], side-striped jackal Canis adustus [1/2, 50%], golden jackal Canis aureus [6/32, 18%], pale fox Vulpes pallida [14/28, 50%], Rüppell's fox Vulpes rueppellii [6/11, 55%], red fox Vulpes vulpes [8/16, 50%], and fennec fox Vulpes zerda [7/11, 42%]). Phylogenetic analysis showed further evidence of occasional transmission of Hepatozoon lineages from prey to canid predators, which seems to occur less frequently than in other predator-prey systems such as between snakes and lizards. Due to the complex nature of the Hepatozoon lifecycle (heteroxenous and vector-borne), future studies on these wild host species need to clarify the dynamics of alternative modes of Hepatozoon transmission and identify reservoir and definitive hosts in natural populations. We also detected putative Babesia spp. (Apicomplexa: Piroplasmida) infections in two canid species from this region, V. pallida (1/28) and V. zerda (1/11).
Collapse
|
19
|
Baneth G. Tick-borne infections of animals and humans: a common ground. Int J Parasitol 2014; 44:591-6. [PMID: 24846527 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpara.2014.03.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 91] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2014] [Revised: 03/27/2014] [Accepted: 03/28/2014] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
A wide variety of pathogens is transmitted from ticks to vertebrates including viruses, bacteria, protozoa and helminths, of which most have a life cycle that requires passage through the vertebrate host. Tick-borne infections of humans, farm and companion animals are essentially associated with wildlife animal reservoirs. While some flying insect-borne diseases of humans such as malaria, filariasis and Kala Azar caused by Leishmania donovani target people as their main host, major tick-borne infections of humans, although potentially causing disease in large numbers of individuals, are typically an infringement of a circulation between wildlife animal reservoirs and tick vectors. While new tick-borne infectious agents are frequently recognised, emerging agents of human tick-borne infections were probably circulating among wildlife animal and tick populations long before being recognised as clinical causes of human disease as has been shown for Borrelia burgdorferi sensu lato. Co-infection with more than one tick-borne infection is common and can enhance pathogenic processes and augment disease severity as found in B. burgdorferi and Anaplasma phagocytophilum co-infection. The role of wild animal reservoirs in co-infection of human hosts appears to be central, further linking human and animal tick-borne infections. Although transmission of most tick-borne infections is through the tick saliva, additional routes of transmission, shown mostly in animals, include infection by oral uptake of infected ticks, by carnivorism, animal bites and transplacentally. Additionally, artificial infection via blood transfusion is a growing threat in both human and veterinary medicine. Due to the close association between human and animal tick-borne infections, control programs for these diseases require integration of data from veterinary and human reporting systems, surveillance in wildlife and tick populations, and combined teams of experts from several scientific disciplines such as entomology, epidemiology, medicine, public health and veterinary medicine.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gad Baneth
- School of Veterinary Medicine, Hebrew University, P.O. Box 12, Rehovot 76100, Israel.
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Demoner LDC, Rubini AS, Paduan KDS, Metzger B, de Paula Antunes JMA, Martins TF, Mathias MIC, O'Dwyer LH. Investigation of tick vectors of Hepatozoon canis in Brazil. Ticks Tick Borne Dis 2013; 4:542-6. [PMID: 24209494 DOI: 10.1016/j.ttbdis.2013.07.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2013] [Revised: 07/04/2013] [Accepted: 07/29/2013] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Hepatozoon canis is a common apicomplexan parasite of dogs. In Brazil, in addition to Rhipicephalus sanguineus, Amblyomma ovale, Amblyomma cajennense, and Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus have been suggested to act as vectors. The present study aimed to evaluate, under controlled conditions, the acquisition of H. canis by A. ovale, R. sanguineus, and A. cajennense after feeding on naturally infected dogs. Cytological and histophatological examinations were performed to recover oocysts and other sporogonic stages of the protozoan from the experimentally infected nymphs and adults. None of the R. sanguineus (n=30) or A. cajennense nymphs (n=15) that were dissected after feeding on H. canis naturally infected dogs became infected by the hemoparasite. Likewise, none of the R. sanguineus (n=165) and A. cajennense (n=114) adult ticks that were fed as nymphs on dogs demonstrated infection. Additionally, A. cajennense adult ticks were incapable of acquiring the infection, since no parasite was found in 62 adults that fed on H. canis-infected dogs. With regard to A. ovale ticks, 2 different infestations were carried out. Firstly, a dog with naturally occurring hepatozoonosis was infested with A. ovale adults originating from Rondônia, Brazil. Ticks fed to full engorgement. A total of 31 adults was collected from the dog and dissected on the third day after natural detachment. Oocysts were detected in 13 (42%) of the ticks. The second experimental infestation was carried out using adult ticks originating from São Paulo, Brazil. Surprisingly, of the 103 dissected ticks, only one (1%) contained oocysts in the hemocoel. No other sporogonic stage was found. Results indicate that different strains of A. ovale ticks may exist in Brazil with different susceptibilities to pathogens. Furthermore, it is possible that R. sanguineus and A. cajennense have little or no importance in the transmission of H. canis in rural areas of Brazil.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Larissa de Castro Demoner
- Departamento de Parasitologia do Instituto de Biociências, Universidade Estadual Júlio de Mesquita Filho, Distrito de Rubião Júnior s/n, CEP 18618-970, Botucatu, São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
21
|
Pinto CM, Helgen KM, Fleischer RC, Perkins SL. HepatozoonParasites (Apicomplexa: Adeleorina) in Bats. J Parasitol 2013; 99:722-4. [DOI: 10.1645/12-18.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
|
22
|
Allen KE, Johnson EM, Little SE. Hepatozoon spp Infections in the United States. Vet Clin North Am Small Anim Pract 2011; 41:1221-38. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cvsm.2011.08.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
|
23
|
O'Dwyer LH. Brazilian canine hepatozoonosis. REVISTA BRASILEIRA DE PARASITOLOGIA VETERINARIA 2011; 20:181-93. [DOI: 10.1590/s1984-29612011000300002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2010] [Accepted: 05/12/2011] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
The genus Hepatozoon includes hundreds of species that infect birds, reptiles, amphibians and mammals, in all continents with tropical and subtropical climates. Two species have been described in domestic dogs: H. canis, reported in Europe, Asia, Africa, South America and the United States; and H. americanum, which so far has only been diagnosed in the United States. In Brazil, the only species found infecting dogs is H. canis. The objective of this review was to detail some aspects of canine hepatozoonosis, caused by H. canis, and the main points of its biology, transmission, pathogenicity, symptoms, epidemiology and diagnostic methods, with emphasis on research developed in Brazil.
Collapse
|
24
|
Viana LA, Soares P, Silva JE, Paiva F, Coutinho ME. Anurans as paratenic hosts in the transmission of Hepatozoon caimani to caimans Caiman yacare and Caiman latirostris. Parasitol Res 2011; 110:883-6. [PMID: 21808978 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-011-2570-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2010] [Accepted: 07/21/2011] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
Prevalence of Hepatozoon caimani has been reported in 76% of caimans Caiman yacare from the Pantanal region. Culex (Melanoconion) spp. mosquitoes were recently identified as natural vectors of this parasite. However, culicids are not typically eaten by crocodilians, suggesting that the main transmission route is through ingestion of insectivorous vertebrates, such as anurans. The susceptibility of wild frogs Leptodactylus chaquensis, Leptodactylus podicipinus and Scinax nasicus to infection by H. caimani was verified. Wild-caught anurans were force fed with sporulated oocysts from laboratory-bred Culex (Melanoconion) mosquitoes. Frogs were killed 30 days postinfection, and their internal organs were fed to caimans C. yacare and Caiman latirostris. Cystozoites were identified in fresh liver impression smears of L. chaquensis. C. yacare fed on anuran organ presented gametocytes in peripheral blood circulation between 74 and 80 days postinoculation (dpi). Gametocytes were also verified in C. latirostris fed on the internal organs of L. podicipinus and S. nasicus between 60-70 and 69-75 dpi, respectively. Since frogs used in experiment are sympatric with C. yacare and C. latirostris and may occur in the diet of these caimans, the results suggest these amphibians are paratenic hosts in the natural transmission cycle of H. caimani in Pantanal.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lúcio André Viana
- Laboratório de Ecologia de Vertebrados, Departamento de Ecologia, Universidade do Estado do Rio de Janeiro, Rua São Francisco Xavier 524, Maracanã, 20541-000 Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
25
|
Abstract
Two species of Hepatozoon are currently known to infect dogs and cause distinct diseases. Hepatozoon canis prevalent in Africa, Asia, southern Europe, South America and recently shown to be present also in the USA causes infection mainly of hemolymphoid organs, whereas Hepatozoon americanum prevalent in the southeastern USA causes myositis and severe lameness. H. americanum is transmitted by ingestion of the Gulf Coast tick Amblyomma maculatum and also by predation on infected prey. H. canis is transmitted by Rhipicephalus sanguineus, in South America also by Amblyomma ovale, and has also been shown to be transmitted transplacentally. Hepatozoonosis of domestic cats has been described mostly from the same areas where canine infection is present and the exact identity of the species which infect cats, their pathogenicity and vectors have not been elucidated. The diagnosis of hepatozoonosis is made by observation of gamonts in blood smears, histopathology, PCR or serology. The main treatment for H. canis is with imidocarb dipropionate whereas H. americanum infection is treated with an initial combination of trimethoprim-sulfadiazine, pyrimethamine and clindamycin followed by maintenance with decoquinate. Treatment for both diseases has not been reported to facilitate complete parasite elimination and new effective drugs are needed for the management of these infections. Prevention of hepatozoonosis should be based on avoidance of oral ingestion of infected tick vectors and infected prey.
Collapse
|
26
|
Allen KE, Yabsley MJ, Johnson EM, Reichard MV, Panciera RJ, Ewing SA, Little SE. Novel Hepatozoon in vertebrates from the southern United States. J Parasitol 2011; 97:648-53. [PMID: 21506825 DOI: 10.1645/ge-2672.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Novel Hepatozoon spp. sequences collected from previously unrecognized vertebrate hosts in North America were compared with documented Hepatozoon 18S rRNA sequences in an effort to examine phylogenetic relationships between the different Hepatozoon organisms found cycling in nature. An approximately 500-base pair fragment of 18S rDNA common to Hepatozoon spp. and some other apicomplexans was amplified and sequenced from the tissues or blood of 16 vertebrate host species from the southern United States, including 1 opossum (Didelphis virginiana), 2 bobcats (Lynx rufus), 1 domestic cat (Felis catus), 3 coyotes (Canis latrans), 1 gray fox (Urocyon cinereoargenteus), 4 raccoons (Procyon lotor), 1 pet boa constrictor (Boa constrictor imperator), 1 swamp rabbit (Sylvilagus aquaticus), 1 cottontail rabbit (Sylvilagus floridanus), 4 woodrats (Neotoma fuscipes and Neotoma micropus), 3 white-footed mice (Peromyscus leucopus), 8 cotton rats (Sigmodon hispidus), 1 cotton mouse (Peromyscus gossypinus), 1 eastern grey squirrel (Sciurus carolinensis), and 1 woodchuck (Marmota monax). Phylogenetic analyses and comparison with sequences in the existing database revealed distinct groups of Hepatozoon spp., with clusters formed by sequences obtained from scavengers and carnivores (opossum, raccoons, canids, and felids) and those obtained from rodents. Surprisingly, Hepatozoon spp. sequences from wild rabbits were most closely related to sequences obtained from carnivores (97.2% identical), and the sequence from the boa constrictor was most closely related to the rodent cluster (97.4% identical). These data are consistent with recent work identifying prey-predator transmission cycles in Hepatozoon spp. and suggest this pattern may be more common than previously recognized.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kelly E Allen
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, Center for Veterinary Health Sciences, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, Oklahoma 74074, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
27
|
Lappin MR. Update on the diagnosis and management of Hepatozoon spp infections in dogs in the United States. Top Companion Anim Med 2010; 25:142-4. [PMID: 20937496 DOI: 10.1053/j.tcam.2010.07.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2010] [Accepted: 07/27/2010] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Michael R Lappin
- Colorado State University, Clinical Sciences, 300 West Drake Rd, Fort Collins, CO 80524, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Johnson E, Panciera R, Allen K, Sheets M, Beal J, Ewing S, Little S. Alternate Pathway of Infection withHepatozoon americanumand the Epidemiologic Importance of Predation. J Vet Intern Med 2009; 23:1315-8. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1939-1676.2009.0375.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
|