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Davenport K, Liu J, Sarquis J, Beall M, Montoya A, Drexel J, Denis T, Toste R, Traversa D, Miró G. Performance of a point-of-care test for the detection of anti-Leishmania infantum antibodies is associated with immunofluorescent antibody titer and clinical stage of leishmaniosis in dogs from endemic regions. Vet Parasitol Reg Stud Reports 2024; 53:101061. [PMID: 39025539 DOI: 10.1016/j.vprsr.2024.101061] [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: 03/11/2024] [Revised: 05/22/2024] [Accepted: 06/04/2024] [Indexed: 07/20/2024]
Abstract
Canine leishmaniosis (CanL) is caused by the protozoal parasite Leishmania infantum, which is transmitted by sand flies in warm climates across the world. Because dogs are considered a primary domestic reservoir for the parasite that causes leishmaniosis in humans, it is important from a One Health perspective that CanL be properly managed. In endemic regions, CanL is a common differential diagnosis in sick dogs because the clinical signs and clinicopathological disorders of the disease are non-specific, variable, and may overlap those of other common conditions. Diagnosis is based on the presence of compatible clinical signs, laboratory abnormalities, and confirmation by serological and parasitological evidence of infection. Here, we describe the performance of a point-of-care (POC) immunoassay that uses recombinant antigens to detect canine anti- L. infantum antibodies in a convenience sample set from a diagnostic laboratory, a group of canine patients with clinical staging, and in apparently healthy dogs from endemic areas. An immunofluorescence antibody test (IFAT) was used as the semiquantitative reference method. In the convenience sample set with high IFAT titers (≥ 1:800), the POC immunoassay demonstrated perfect agreement with IFAT (100%; 90/90). Using samples from dogs staged as either LeishVet Stage 2 or 3 or LeishVet Stage 1, positive agreement of the POC immunoassay with the IFAT was 98.8% (82/83) and 83.8% (31/37), respectively. The negative agreement with IFAT was 98.9% (272/275) in apparently healthy dogs from endemic areas of Greece and Italy. Since the performance of the POC immunoassay was associated with IFAT titer and clinical stage of CanL, the test may help veterinarians when determining if CanL is likely responsible for a patient's clinical picture or when evaluating an apparently healthy patient prior to vaccination.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Joe Liu
- IDEXX Laboratories, Inc., 1 IDEXX Drive, Westbrook, ME 04092, USA.
| | | | - Melissa Beall
- IDEXX Laboratories, Inc., 1 IDEXX Drive, Westbrook, ME 04092, USA.
| | - Ana Montoya
- Universidad Complutense, 28040 Madrid, Spain.
| | - Jan Drexel
- IDEXX Laboratories, Inc., 1 IDEXX Drive, Westbrook, ME 04092, USA.
| | - Tori Denis
- IDEXX Laboratories, Inc., 1 IDEXX Drive, Westbrook, ME 04092, USA.
| | - Ryan Toste
- IDEXX Laboratories, Inc., 1 IDEXX Drive, Westbrook, ME 04092, USA.
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Olmeda P, Díaz-Regañón D, Villaescusa A, Amusategui I, García A, Herrero F, Tesouro MA, Rodríguez-Franco F, García-Sancho M, Martín-Fraile D, Sainz Á. Twenty-year evolution of Leishmania infantum infection in dogs in Valdeorras (Galicia, Northwestern Spain): implication of climatic factors and preventive measures. Parasit Vectors 2024; 17:281. [PMID: 38951858 PMCID: PMC11218365 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-024-06357-8] [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: 04/12/2024] [Accepted: 06/15/2024] [Indexed: 07/03/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Abiotic factors play a significant role in the evolution of Leishmania infantum infection due to its vectorial nature. This study aims to assess the evolution in the detection of new L. infantum infection cases in Valdeorras (Ourense, Northwestern Spain) over a 20-year period and how different climatic variables and preventive measures may have affected it. METHODS Indirect immunofluorescence antibody tests (IFAT) were performed on serum samples collected from dogs attending the 'Servicios Veterinarios de Sil' veterinary clinic (Valdeorras, Northwestern Spain) between May 2003 and April 2023 to detect L. infantum exposure. The percentage of new cases of L. infantum infection was calculated from May of one year to April of the following year. Climatic conditions in the region, global sales of ectoparasiticides and the number of vaccines against L. infantum delivered in the veterinary clinic from 2003 to 2022 were recorded. Statistical analyses were conducted to determine the associations between these factors and the percentage of new cases of L. infantum infection. RESULTS A total of 2909 dogs were assessed, and 3785 IFAT tests were performed between May 2003 and April 2023. The mean percentage of new seropositive cases over the 20-year period studied was 21.65 ± 10.8%, with a decline from the beginning to the end of the period studied. The percentage was significantly higher between May 2003 and April 2008 compared with the other periods (May 2008 to April 2013, May 2013 to April 2018 and May 2018 to April 2023). There was a positive correlation between the percentage of new cases of L. infantum infection and the maximum relative humidity in winter. Conversely, there was a negative correlation between the percentage of new cases and sales of ectoparasiticides and vaccination against L. infantum. CONCLUSIONS This study is one of the longest evaluations of the evolution of L. infantum infection in a fixed location and its association with external factors including climatic conditions and preventive measures. The results confirm that Valdeorras is a high-risk area for L. infantum infection. The use of ectoparasiticides and vaccines against L. infantum has been shown to play a significant role in preventing L. infantum infection, highlighting the crucial role of veterinarians in the fight against this disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patricia Olmeda
- Department of Animal Medicine and Surgery, College of Veterinary Medicine, Complutense University of Madrid, Avda. Puerta de Hierro S/N, 28040, Madrid, Spain
| | - David Díaz-Regañón
- Department of Animal Medicine and Surgery, College of Veterinary Medicine, Complutense University of Madrid, Avda. Puerta de Hierro S/N, 28040, Madrid, Spain
| | - Alejandra Villaescusa
- Department of Animal Medicine and Surgery, College of Veterinary Medicine, Complutense University of Madrid, Avda. Puerta de Hierro S/N, 28040, Madrid, Spain
| | - Inmaculada Amusategui
- Department of Animal Medicine and Surgery, College of Veterinary Medicine, Complutense University of Madrid, Avda. Puerta de Hierro S/N, 28040, Madrid, Spain
| | - Adolfo García
- Veterinary Clinic "Servicios Veterinarios del Sil", C/ Coruña 9, O Barco de Valdeorras, 32300, Ourense, Spain
| | - Francisco Herrero
- Veterinary Clinic "Servicios Veterinarios del Sil", C/ Coruña 9, O Barco de Valdeorras, 32300, Ourense, Spain
| | - Miguel A Tesouro
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Surgery and Anatomy, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of León, Campus de Vegazana, 24071, León, Spain
| | - Fernando Rodríguez-Franco
- Department of Animal Medicine and Surgery, College of Veterinary Medicine, Complutense University of Madrid, Avda. Puerta de Hierro S/N, 28040, Madrid, Spain
| | - Mercedes García-Sancho
- Department of Animal Medicine and Surgery, College of Veterinary Medicine, Complutense University of Madrid, Avda. Puerta de Hierro S/N, 28040, Madrid, Spain
| | - Daniel Martín-Fraile
- Department of Animal Medicine and Surgery, College of Veterinary Medicine, Complutense University of Madrid, Avda. Puerta de Hierro S/N, 28040, Madrid, Spain
| | - Ángel Sainz
- Department of Animal Medicine and Surgery, College of Veterinary Medicine, Complutense University of Madrid, Avda. Puerta de Hierro S/N, 28040, Madrid, Spain.
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3
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Sanz CR, Sarquis J, Daza MÁ, Miró G. Exploring the impact of epidemiological and clinical factors on the progression of canine leishmaniosis by statistical and whole genome analyses: from breed predisposition to comorbidities. Int J Parasitol 2024; 54:401-414. [PMID: 38570155 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpara.2024.03.006] [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: 07/14/2023] [Revised: 02/25/2024] [Accepted: 03/26/2024] [Indexed: 04/05/2024]
Abstract
Canine leishmaniosis (CanL), caused by Leishmania infantum, is a complex disease of growing importance in Europe. Clinical manifestations result from the down-modulation of the host immune response through multiple host-parasite interactions. Although several factors might influence CanL progression, this is the first known study evaluating risk factors for its different clinical stages in a large referral hospital population (n = 35.669) from an endemic area, over a 20 year period. Genome-wide scans for selection signatures were also conducted to explore the genomic component of clinical susceptibility to L. infantum infection. The prevalence of CanL was 3.2% (16.7% stage I; 43.6% stage II; 32.1% stage III; 7.6% stage IV). Dog breed (crossbreed), bodyweight (<10 kg), living conditions (indoors), regular deworming treatment, and being vaccinated against Leishmania significantly decreased the transmission risk and the risk for developing severe clinical forms. Conversely, the detection of comorbidities was associated with advanced clinical forms, particularly chronic kidney disease, neoplasia, cryptorchidism, infectious tracheobronchitis and urate urolithiasis, although those did not impact the clinical outcome. Significant associations between an increased risk of severe clinical stages and findings in the anamnesis (renal or skin-related manifestations) and physical examination (ocular findings) were also detected, highlighting their diagnostic value in referred cases of CanL. Sixteen breeds were found to be significantly more susceptible to developing severe stages of leishmaniosis (e.g. Great Dane, Rottweiler, English Springer Spaniel, Boxer, American Staffordshire Terrier, Golden Retriever), while 20 breeds displayed a clinical resistantance phenotype and, thus, are more likely to mount an efficient immune response against L. infantum (e.g. Pointer, Samoyed, Spanish Mastiff, Spanish Greyhound, English Setter, Siberian Husky). Genomic analyses of these breeds retrieved 12 regions under selection, 63 candidate genes and pinpointed multiple biological pathways such as the IRE1 branch of the unfolded protein response, which could play a critical role in clinical susceptibility to L. infantum infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carolina R Sanz
- Animal Health Department, Veterinary Faculty, Complutense University of Madrid, Av. Puerta de Hierro s/n, Madrid 28040, Spain.
| | - Juliana Sarquis
- Animal Health Department, Veterinary Faculty, Complutense University of Madrid, Av. Puerta de Hierro s/n, Madrid 28040, Spain
| | - María Ángeles Daza
- Veterinary Teaching Hospital, Veterinary Faculty, Complutense University of Madrid, Av. Puerta Hierro s/n, Madrid 28040, Spain; Department of Animal Medicine and Surgery, Veterinary Faculty, Complutense University of Madrid, Av. Puerta de Hierro s/n, Madrid 28040, Spain
| | - Guadalupe Miró
- Animal Health Department, Veterinary Faculty, Complutense University of Madrid, Av. Puerta de Hierro s/n, Madrid 28040, Spain; Veterinary Teaching Hospital, Veterinary Faculty, Complutense University of Madrid, Av. Puerta Hierro s/n, Madrid 28040, Spain.
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Bauer BU, Lebrero ME, Ganter M, Navarro T, Fernández A, Ruíz de Arcaute M, Ortín A, Villanueva-Saz S, Marteles D, Ruiz H, Climent M, Quílez P, Lacasta D. First Evidence of Leishmania infantum Antibodies in Sheep ( Ovis aries) from Southern Germany. Animals (Basel) 2024; 14:1860. [PMID: 38997972 PMCID: PMC11240645 DOI: 10.3390/ani14131860] [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: 05/07/2024] [Revised: 06/09/2024] [Accepted: 06/21/2024] [Indexed: 07/14/2024] Open
Abstract
In Europe, Leishmania infantum is the most prevalent Leishmania species, and this protozoan is transmitted by phlebotomine sandflies. A recent publication has shown that sheep harbor L. infantum antibodies. This raises questions about the epidemiological role of small ruminants. Therefore, sera from small ruminants located in two southern German federal states, Baden-Wuerttemberg (BW) and Bavaria (BAV), were analyzed with an ELISA to determine the presence of L. infantum antibodies. The species, sex and age (gimmer vs. ewe) were recorded, and a univariate analysis was conducted to determine possible associations. In total, seven sheep flocks (274 sheep/10 goats) from BW and seven sheep flocks (277 sheep/78 goats) from BAV were examined. In BW, four sheep from three flocks tested positive for L. infantum antibodies. In BAV, the same number of positive sheep were detected but in four flocks. The total seropositivity rate in sheep was 1.45%. All goats tested negative. No significant association (p > 0.05) was detected between Leishmania seropositivity and the variables evaluated. Our study reveals the exposure of sheep to L. infantum in a non-endemic area. Further investigation is needed to determine whether sheep can be used as sentinels to identify new phlebotomine habitats and Leishmania risk areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin Ulrich Bauer
- Clinic for Swine and Small Ruminants, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Bischofsholer Damm 15, 30173 Hannover, Germany
| | - María Eugenia Lebrero
- Animal Pathology Department, Veterinary Faculty, University of Zaragoza, Miguel Servet 177, 50013 Zaragoza, Spain
- Clinical Immunology Laboratory, Veterinary Faculty, University of Zaragoza, Miguel Servet 177, 50013 Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Martin Ganter
- Clinic for Swine and Small Ruminants, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Bischofsholer Damm 15, 30173 Hannover, Germany
| | - Teresa Navarro
- Animal Pathology Department, Veterinary Faculty, University of Zaragoza, Miguel Servet 177, 50013 Zaragoza, Spain
- Small Ruminant Clinical Service, Veterinary Faculty, University of Zaragoza, Miguel Servet 177, 50013 Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Antonio Fernández
- Animal Pathology Department, Veterinary Faculty, University of Zaragoza, Miguel Servet 177, 50013 Zaragoza, Spain
- Clinical Immunology Laboratory, Veterinary Faculty, University of Zaragoza, Miguel Servet 177, 50013 Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Marta Ruíz de Arcaute
- Animal Pathology Department, Veterinary Faculty, University of Zaragoza, Miguel Servet 177, 50013 Zaragoza, Spain
- Small Ruminant Clinical Service, Veterinary Faculty, University of Zaragoza, Miguel Servet 177, 50013 Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Aurora Ortín
- Animal Pathology Department, Veterinary Faculty, University of Zaragoza, Miguel Servet 177, 50013 Zaragoza, Spain
- Small Ruminant Clinical Service, Veterinary Faculty, University of Zaragoza, Miguel Servet 177, 50013 Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Sergio Villanueva-Saz
- Animal Pathology Department, Veterinary Faculty, University of Zaragoza, Miguel Servet 177, 50013 Zaragoza, Spain
- Clinical Immunology Laboratory, Veterinary Faculty, University of Zaragoza, Miguel Servet 177, 50013 Zaragoza, Spain
- Small Ruminant Clinical Service, Veterinary Faculty, University of Zaragoza, Miguel Servet 177, 50013 Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Diana Marteles
- Animal Pathology Department, Veterinary Faculty, University of Zaragoza, Miguel Servet 177, 50013 Zaragoza, Spain
- Clinical Immunology Laboratory, Veterinary Faculty, University of Zaragoza, Miguel Servet 177, 50013 Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Héctor Ruiz
- Animal Pathology Department, Veterinary Faculty, University of Zaragoza, Miguel Servet 177, 50013 Zaragoza, Spain
- Small Ruminant Clinical Service, Veterinary Faculty, University of Zaragoza, Miguel Servet 177, 50013 Zaragoza, Spain
| | - María Climent
- Small Ruminant Clinical Service, Veterinary Faculty, University of Zaragoza, Miguel Servet 177, 50013 Zaragoza, Spain
- Anatomy, Embryology and Animal Genetics, Veterinary Faculty, University of Zaragoza, Miguel Servet 177, 50013 Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Pablo Quílez
- Animal Pathology Department, Veterinary Faculty, University of Zaragoza, Miguel Servet 177, 50013 Zaragoza, Spain
- Small Ruminant Clinical Service, Veterinary Faculty, University of Zaragoza, Miguel Servet 177, 50013 Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Delia Lacasta
- Animal Pathology Department, Veterinary Faculty, University of Zaragoza, Miguel Servet 177, 50013 Zaragoza, Spain
- Small Ruminant Clinical Service, Veterinary Faculty, University of Zaragoza, Miguel Servet 177, 50013 Zaragoza, Spain
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de Oliveira TCB, Sevá ADP, Neto JABC, Lopes UDL, Bresciani KDS. Finding Priority Areas in the Evaluation of Strategies for the Prevention of Leishmaniasis in an Endemic Municipality of Brazil. Trop Med Infect Dis 2024; 9:115. [PMID: 38787048 PMCID: PMC11125642 DOI: 10.3390/tropicalmed9050115] [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: 02/19/2024] [Revised: 05/01/2024] [Accepted: 05/09/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Visceral leishmaniasis is a zoonotic disease that affects humans and dogs. The infection is endemic in the municipality of Araçatuba, São Paulo, Brazil. Given the role of dogs in the epidemiology of leishmaniasis, strategies to enhance surveillance and reduce transmission are focused on dogs. In this study, we retrospectively analyzed records of canine visceral leishmaniasis from 2013 to 2022. According to this database, the prevalence of dogs testing positive for leishmaniasis fluctuated, with an average of 65.04% (6590/10,133). Cases were clustered in 10 statistically significant areas. Environmental analyses identified a significant geographical association between animals testing positive and higher vegetation density rates compared with animals testing negative. The period from sample collection to diagnosis and euthanasia, as recommended by the Brazilian Ministry, correlated with disease prevalence and decreased over time. These findings serve to implement different action plans against leishmaniasis for each geographic region and to understand the impact and efforts of strategies in an endemic area.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Anaiá da Paixão Sevá
- Department of Environmental and Agrarian Science, State University of Santa Cruz, Ilhéus 45662-900, Brazil;
| | - João Alfredo Biagi Camargo Neto
- Animal Health and Production Department, Paulista State University (UNESP), Araçatuba 16018-805, Brazil; (J.A.B.C.N.); (K.D.S.B.)
| | - Uelio de Lima Lopes
- Department of Environmental and Agrarian Science, State University of Santa Cruz, Ilhéus 45662-900, Brazil;
| | - Katia Denise Saraiva Bresciani
- Animal Health and Production Department, Paulista State University (UNESP), Araçatuba 16018-805, Brazil; (J.A.B.C.N.); (K.D.S.B.)
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Pabon-Rodriguez FM, Brown GD, Scorza BM, Petersen CA. Within-host bayesian joint modeling of longitudinal and time-to-event data of Leishmania infection. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0297175. [PMID: 38335163 PMCID: PMC10857584 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0297175] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2023] [Accepted: 12/30/2023] [Indexed: 02/12/2024] Open
Abstract
The host immune system plays a significant role in managing and clearing pathogen material during an infection, but this complex process presents numerous challenges from a modeling perspective. There are many mathematical and statistical models for these kinds of processes that take into account a wide range of events that happen within the host. In this work, we present a Bayesian joint model of longitudinal and time-to-event data of Leishmania infection that considers the interplay between key drivers of the disease process: pathogen load, antibody level, and disease. The longitudinal model also considers approximate inflammatory and regulatory immune factors. In addition to measuring antibody levels produced by the immune system, we adapt data from CD4+ and CD8+ T cell proliferation, and expression of interleukin 10, interferon-gamma, and programmed cell death 1 as inflammatory or regulatory factors mediating the disease process. The model is developed using data collected from a cohort of dogs naturally exposed to Leishmania infantum. The cohort was chosen to start with healthy infected animals, and this is the majority of the data. The model also characterizes the relationship features of the longitudinal outcomes and time-to-death due to progressive Leishmania infection. In addition to describing the mechanisms causing disease progression and impacting the risk of death, we also present the model's ability to predict individual trajectories of Canine Leishmaniosis (CanL) progression. The within-host model structure we present here provides a way forward to address vital research questions regarding the understanding of the progression of complex chronic diseases such as Visceral Leishmaniasis, a parasitic disease causing significant morbidity worldwide.
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Affiliation(s)
- Felix M. Pabon-Rodriguez
- Department of Biostatistics, The University of Iowa College of Public Health, Iowa City, Iowa, United States of America
| | - Grant D. Brown
- Department of Biostatistics, The University of Iowa College of Public Health, Iowa City, Iowa, United States of America
| | - Breanna M. Scorza
- Department of Epidemiology, The University of Iowa College of Public Health, Iowa City, Iowa, United States of America
- Center for Emerging Infectious Diseases, The University of Iowa College of Public Health, Iowa City, Iowa, United States of America
| | - Christine A. Petersen
- Department of Epidemiology, The University of Iowa College of Public Health, Iowa City, Iowa, United States of America
- Center for Emerging Infectious Diseases, The University of Iowa College of Public Health, Iowa City, Iowa, United States of America
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Obeid S, Berbel-Manaia E, Nicolas V, Dennemont I, Barbier J, Cintrat JC, Gillet D, Loiseau PM, Pomel S. Deciphering the mechanism of action of VP343, an antileishmanial drug candidate, in Leishmania infantum. iScience 2023; 26:108144. [PMID: 37915600 PMCID: PMC10616420 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2023.108144] [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: 03/30/2023] [Revised: 07/25/2023] [Accepted: 10/02/2023] [Indexed: 11/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Antileishmanial chemotherapy is currently limited due to severe toxic side effects and drug resistance. Hence, new antileishmanial compounds based on alternative approaches, mainly to avoid the emergence of drug resistance, are needed. The present work aims to decipher the mechanism of action of an antileishmanial drug candidate, named VP343, inhibiting intracellular Leishmania infantum survival via the host cell. Cell imaging showed that VP343 interferes with the fusion of parasitophorous vacuoles and host cell late endosomes and lysosomes, leading to lysosomal cholesterol accumulation and ROS overproduction within host cells. Proteomic analyses showed that VP343 perturbs host cell vesicular trafficking as well as cholesterol synthesis/transport pathways. Furthermore, a knockdown of two selected targets involved in vesicle-mediated transport, Pik3c3 and Sirt2, resulted in similar antileishmanial activity to VP343 treatment. This work revealed potential host cell pathways and targets altered by VP343 that would be of interest for further development of host-directed antileishmanial drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sameh Obeid
- Université Paris-Saclay, CNRS BioCIS, 91400 Orsay, France
| | | | - Valérie Nicolas
- Université Paris-Saclay, UMS-IPSIT, Microscopy Facility, 92019 Châtenay-Malabry, France
| | | | - Julien Barbier
- Université Paris-Saclay, UMS-IPSIT, Microscopy Facility, 92019 Châtenay-Malabry, France
| | - Jean-Christophe Cintrat
- Université Paris-Saclay, CEA, INRAE, Département Médicaments et Technologies pour la Santé (DMTS), SCBM, 91191 Gif-sur-Yvette, France
| | - Daniel Gillet
- Université Paris-Saclay, CEA, INRAE, Département Médicaments et Technologies pour la Santé (DMTS), SIMoS, 91191 Gif-sur-Yvette, France
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8
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Jaimes-Dueñez J, Castillo-Castañeda A, Jiménez-Leaño Á, Duque JE, Cantillo-Barraza O, Cáceres-Rivera DI, Granada Y, Triana-Chávez O, Ramírez JD. Epidemiological features of Leishmania infantum in dogs (Canis lupus familiaris) suggest a latent risk of visceral leishmaniasis in the metropolitan area of Bucaramanga, Santander, Eastern Colombia. Prev Vet Med 2023; 219:106021. [PMID: 37738753 DOI: 10.1016/j.prevetmed.2023.106021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2023] [Revised: 07/24/2023] [Accepted: 09/04/2023] [Indexed: 09/24/2023]
Abstract
Visceral leishmaniasis (VL) is a disease caused by species of the Leishmania donovani complex that is mainly transmitted through the urban cycle involving dogs as the primary reservoir. In Colombia, the incidence of VL is increasing, along with the spread of potential vectors. This study aims to investigate the eco-epidemiological factors associated with Leishmania spp. infection in dogs from the Metropolitan Area of Bucaramanga (MAB), Santander, eastern Colombia, which is a region at risk for VL. We conducted molecular and serological surveillance of Leishmania spp. in 207 dogs from MAB to determine the epidemiological factors associated with infection. Subsequently, we carried out a molecular and serological analysis of phlebotomine and humans, respectively, in areas with a higher prevalence of infection, aiming to describe the main features associated with the transmission cycle. Out of the 207 dogs tested, 37 (17.8%, 95% CI = 12.6-23.1%) were positive for the presence of Leishmania antibodies by the IFAT test, and only 9 (4.3%, 95% CI = 1.55-7.15%) were positive for L. infantum by PCR. Multivariate analyses indicated that canine shelters and dogs with clinical signs commonly associated with canine VL had a higher prevalence of infection (P < 0.05). In the entomological survey, 69 blood-fed female phlebotomine of the genus Lutzomyia were captured in canine shelters, among them, 55% were identified as Lutzomyia camposi, 29% as Lu. ovallesi, 7% as Lu. dubitans, 6% as Lu. torvida, and 3% as Lu. cayennensis. The identified meal sources of the phlebotomine included human, pig, avian, cattle, and porcupine (Coendou quichua) blood. However, no phlebotomine positive for Leishmania spp. were detected by molecular analyses. Finally, 14 humans who had frequent contact with L. infantum-positive dogs were analyzed through rK39 test, but none tested was positive for IgG/IgM antibodies. The molecular and serological analyses indicate the circulation of L. infantum in dogs from MAB, with canine shelters having the highest prevalence of infection. The entomological survey of canine shelters showed a significant diversity of phlebotomine without potential vectors of L. infantum, suggesting the presence of infection in dogs from these areas could take place in other locations or through other transmission routes. The circulation of L. infantum in multiple dogs from MAB suggests a latent risk of zoonotic transmission of VL in these cities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeiczon Jaimes-Dueñez
- Grupo de Investigación en Ciencias Animales GRICA, Facultad de Medicina Veterinaria y Zootecnia, Universidad Cooperativa de Colombia UCC, Bucaramanga, Colombia.
| | - Adriana Castillo-Castañeda
- Centro de Investigaciones en Microbiología y Biotecnología-UR (CIMBIUR), Facultad de Ciencias Naturales, Universidad del Rosario, Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Ángela Jiménez-Leaño
- Grupo de Investigación en Ciencias Animales GRICA, Facultad de Medicina Veterinaria y Zootecnia, Universidad Cooperativa de Colombia UCC, Bucaramanga, Colombia
| | - Jonny E Duque
- Centro de Investigaciones en Enfermedades Tropicales, CINTROP, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Industrial de Santander, Bucaramanga, Colombia
| | - Omar Cantillo-Barraza
- Centro de Investigaciones en Microbiología y Biotecnología-UR (CIMBIUR), Facultad de Ciencias Naturales, Universidad del Rosario, Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Diana Isabel Cáceres-Rivera
- Grupo de Investigación para el fortalecimiento de la salud y el bienestar GIFOSABI, Facultad de Enfermería, Universidad Cooperativa de Colombia UCC, Bucaramanga, Colombia
| | - Yurany Granada
- Grupo Biología y Control de Enfermedades Infecciosas, BCEI, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Universidad de Antioquia, Medellín, Colombia
| | - Omar Triana-Chávez
- Grupo Biología y Control de Enfermedades Infecciosas, BCEI, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Universidad de Antioquia, Medellín, Colombia
| | - Juan David Ramírez
- Centro de Investigaciones en Microbiología y Biotecnología-UR (CIMBIUR), Facultad de Ciencias Naturales, Universidad del Rosario, Bogotá, Colombia; Molecular Microbiology Laboratory, Department of Pathology, Molecular and Cell-Based Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York city, NY, USA
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Pabon-Rodriguez FM, Brown GD, Scorza BM, Petersen CA. Within-Host Bayesian Joint Modeling of Longitudinal and Time-to-Event Data of Leishmania Infection. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.09.11.557114. [PMID: 37745423 PMCID: PMC10515798 DOI: 10.1101/2023.09.11.557114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/26/2023]
Abstract
The host immune system plays a significant role in managing and clearing pathogen material during an infection, but this complex process presents numerous challenges from a modeling perspective. There are many mathematical and statistical models for these kinds of processes that take into account a wide range of events that happen within the host. In this work, we present a Bayesian joint model of longitudinal and time-to-event data of Leishmania infection that considers the interplay between key drivers of the disease process: pathogen load, antibody level, and disease. The longitudinal model also considers approximate inflammatory and regulatory immune factors. In addition to measuring antibody levels produced by the immune system, we adapt data from CD4+ and CD8+ T cell proliferation, and expression of interleukin 10, interferon-gamma, and programmed cell death 1 as inflammatory or regulatory factors mediating the disease process. The model is developed using data collected from a cohort of dogs naturally exposed to Leishmania infantum. The cohort was chosen to start with healthy infected animals, and this is the majority of the data. The model also characterizes the relationship features of the longitudinal outcomes and time of death due to progressive Leishmania infection. In addition to describing the mechanisms causing disease progression and impacting the risk of death, we also present the model's ability to predict individual trajectories of Canine Leishmaniosis (CanL) progression. The within-host model structure we present here provides a way forward to address vital research questions regarding the understanding progression of complex chronic diseases such as Visceral Leishmaniasis, a parasitic disease causing significant morbidity worldwide.
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Affiliation(s)
- Felix M. Pabon-Rodriguez
- Department of Biostatistics, The University of Iowa College of Public Health, Iowa City, Iowa, United States
| | - Grant D. Brown
- Department of Biostatistics, The University of Iowa College of Public Health, Iowa City, Iowa, United States
| | - Breanna M. Scorza
- Department of Epidemiology, The University of Iowa College of Public Health, Iowa City, Iowa, United States
- Center for Emerging Infectious Diseases, The University of Iowa College of Public Health, Iowa City, Iowa, United States
| | - Christine A. Petersen
- Department of Epidemiology, The University of Iowa College of Public Health, Iowa City, Iowa, United States
- Center for Emerging Infectious Diseases, The University of Iowa College of Public Health, Iowa City, Iowa, United States
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10
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Burguete-Mikeo A, Fernández-Rubio C, Peña-Guerrero J, El-Dirany R, Gainza L, Carasa Buj B, Nguewa PA. Characterization of Leishmania Parasites Isolated from Naturally Infected Mammals. Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:2153. [PMID: 37443951 DOI: 10.3390/ani13132153] [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: 05/26/2023] [Revised: 06/20/2023] [Accepted: 06/27/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Leishmaniasis is spreading in Europe, especially in endemic countries such as Italy and Spain, in part due to ongoing climate change and the increase in travel and migration. Although Leishmania infantum is the main agent responsible for this disease in humans and animals, other species and hybrids have been detected. This highlights the need to continue isolating and characterizing Leishmania strains from biological samples of infected hosts. In this study, we characterized the recently isolated parasites L. infantum NAV and L. infantum TDL, obtained from naturally infected mammals (dogs), and we compared them with the widely distributed and studied strain L. infantum BCN 150. Both NAV and TDL promastigotes showed a slower growth rate than BCN 150 and were significantly more sensitive to amphotericin B and miltefosine. Furthermore, the expression of the CYCA gene (involved in cell cycle and proliferation) was significantly downregulated in NAV and TDL isolates. On the other hand, CYC6 (implicated in treatment resistance) and APG9 (related to the recycling of protein under stress conditions and/or while undergoing a differentiation process and treatment resistance) levels were upregulated, compared to those measured in BCN 150. Both isolates displayed a higher infection capacity (>3 amastigotes per macrophage and >70% of infected macrophages) compared to controls (<2 amastigotes/cells and <50% of infected macrophages). Finally, a higher susceptibility to miltefosine treatment was observed in intracellular NAV and TDL amastigotes. In conclusion, TDL and NAV are novel Leishmania isolates that might be useful for in vitro and in vivo assays that will allow a better understanding of the parasite biology in Mediterranean areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aroia Burguete-Mikeo
- ISTUN Instituto de Salud Tropical, Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, University of Navarra, c/Irunlarrea 1, E-31008 Pamplona, Spain
- IdiSNA (Navarra Institute for Health Research), University of Navarra, c/Irunlarrea 1, E-31008 Pamplona, Spain
| | - Celia Fernández-Rubio
- ISTUN Instituto de Salud Tropical, Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, University of Navarra, c/Irunlarrea 1, E-31008 Pamplona, Spain
- IdiSNA (Navarra Institute for Health Research), University of Navarra, c/Irunlarrea 1, E-31008 Pamplona, Spain
| | - José Peña-Guerrero
- ISTUN Instituto de Salud Tropical, Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, University of Navarra, c/Irunlarrea 1, E-31008 Pamplona, Spain
- IdiSNA (Navarra Institute for Health Research), University of Navarra, c/Irunlarrea 1, E-31008 Pamplona, Spain
| | - Rima El-Dirany
- ISTUN Instituto de Salud Tropical, Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, University of Navarra, c/Irunlarrea 1, E-31008 Pamplona, Spain
- IdiSNA (Navarra Institute for Health Research), University of Navarra, c/Irunlarrea 1, E-31008 Pamplona, Spain
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology and Cancer Immunology, Faculty of Sciences I, Lebanese University, Hadath 1003, Lebanon
| | - Leonardo Gainza
- Clinica Veterinaria Burlada, Plaza Ezcabazabal 2, E-31600 Burlada, Spain
| | - Belen Carasa Buj
- Clinica Veterinaria Belen Carasa Buj, c/Ximénez de Rada 53, E-31500 Tudela, Spain
| | - Paul A Nguewa
- ISTUN Instituto de Salud Tropical, Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, University of Navarra, c/Irunlarrea 1, E-31008 Pamplona, Spain
- IdiSNA (Navarra Institute for Health Research), University of Navarra, c/Irunlarrea 1, E-31008 Pamplona, Spain
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11
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Almeida M, Maia C, Cristóvão JM, Morgado C, Barbosa I, Ibars RF, Campino L, Gonçalves L, Cortes S. Seroprevalence and Risk Factors Associated with Leishmania Infection in Dogs from Portugal. Microorganisms 2022; 10:2262. [PMID: 36422332 PMCID: PMC9695918 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms10112262] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2022] [Revised: 11/12/2022] [Accepted: 11/13/2022] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Canine leishmaniosis (CanL) caused by Leishmania infantum is an important zoonosis in southwestern European countries where this disease is endemic, and dogs, as domestic animals in close contact with humans, are the reservoir hosts for the parasite. In Portugal, CanL is of relevant veterinary concern. The previous national study revealed an overall seroprevalence of 6.3%. Since then, new prophylactic measures, such as vaccines, have been introduced in Europe. The aim of this study was to update seroprevalence for Leishmania infection and reassess risk factors in Portugal. A cross-sectional study was conducted from January-March 2021 with 1860 client-owned dogs from continental Portugal. A questionnaire and whole blood samples on filter paper were collected and a direct agglutination test was used to calculate anti-Leishmania antibody titres. True seroprevalence was 12.5% (95% CI 10.3-13.2%). Potential risk factors associated with L. infantum infection in dogs were age ≥ 2 years (aOR = 1.68, 95% CI 1.1-2.6) and residing in the interior regions of the country (aOR = 1.92, 95% CI 1.3-2.9) and non-use of repellents (aOR = 1.75, 95% CI 1.2-2.5). The key to controlling CanL and its impact on Public Health in endemic areas lies in continuous implementation of prophylactic measures, through the correct use of repellents/insecticides and vaccines and early detection and monitoring of infected dogs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Almeida
- Instituto de Higiene e Medicina Tropical (IHMT), Universidade Nova de Lisboa (UNL), Rua da Junqueira, 100, 1349-008 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Carla Maia
- Instituto de Higiene e Medicina Tropical (IHMT), Universidade Nova de Lisboa (UNL), Rua da Junqueira, 100, 1349-008 Lisboa, Portugal
- Global Health and Tropical Medicine (GHTM), Instituto de Higiene e Medicina Tropical (IHMT), Universidade Nova de Lisboa (UNL), Rua da Junqueira, 100, 1349-008 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - José M. Cristóvão
- Instituto de Higiene e Medicina Tropical (IHMT), Universidade Nova de Lisboa (UNL), Rua da Junqueira, 100, 1349-008 Lisboa, Portugal
| | | | - Inês Barbosa
- MSD Animal Health Lda, 2770-192 Paço de Arcos, Portugal
| | | | - Lenea Campino
- Instituto de Higiene e Medicina Tropical (IHMT), Universidade Nova de Lisboa (UNL), Rua da Junqueira, 100, 1349-008 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Luzia Gonçalves
- Instituto de Higiene e Medicina Tropical (IHMT), Universidade Nova de Lisboa (UNL), Rua da Junqueira, 100, 1349-008 Lisboa, Portugal
- Centro de Estatística e Aplicações da Universidade de Lisboa (CEAUL), Faculdade de Ciências, Universidade de Lisboa, 1749-016 Lisboa, Portugal
- z-Stat4life, Cowork do Palácio Baldaya, 1549-011 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Sofia Cortes
- Instituto de Higiene e Medicina Tropical (IHMT), Universidade Nova de Lisboa (UNL), Rua da Junqueira, 100, 1349-008 Lisboa, Portugal
- Global Health and Tropical Medicine (GHTM), Instituto de Higiene e Medicina Tropical (IHMT), Universidade Nova de Lisboa (UNL), Rua da Junqueira, 100, 1349-008 Lisboa, Portugal
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12
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Lima CS, Esteves S, Costa I, Brancal H, Lima C, Amorim C, Cardoso L, Santarém N, Cordeiro-da-Silva A. Use of Antigen Combinations to Address Complex Leishmania-Seropositivity Patterns in Dogs Living in Canine Leishmaniosis Endemic Regions of Portugal. Microorganisms 2022; 10:2018. [PMID: 36296294 PMCID: PMC9607924 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms10102018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2022] [Revised: 10/05/2022] [Accepted: 10/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Canine leishmaniosis (CanL) is a vector-borne disease caused by Leishmania infantum. Infection in dogs can result in a disease with non-specific clinical signs or in a subclinical condition. Infection diagnosis is crucial to guide public health measures considering the zoonotic potential of L. infantum. Serological approaches to detect infection with a reduced antigen panel potentially limit the quality of the information obtained. To evaluate the impact of using distinct antigens in a serological survey, a cohort with 390 dogs from endemic regions in Portugal was subjected to a serological evaluation using ELISA and DAT. Using ELISA, six Leishmania-specific antigens in conjunction with a non-related antigen, Escherichia coli soluble antigens, were evaluated. The global seroprevalence was 10.5% for DAT and 15.4 to 23.1% for ELISA, depending on the antigen for the latter. Still, only 8.2% of the animals were seropositive to all Leishmania-specific antigens. Importantly, a further 31.0% presented antigen-dependent seropositivity. Considering this observation, a serological score system was proposed and validated to address the complex serology results. With this system, the overall dog seropositivity was 26.9%. This work highlights the limitations of single-antigen serological surveys and presents an approach that might contribute to the establishment of CanL-specific serological profiles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carla Silva Lima
- Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, Universidade do Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
- Instituto de Biologia Molecular e Celular, Universidade do Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
- Serviço de Microbiologia, Departamento de Ciências Biológicas, Faculdade de Farmácia da Universidade do Porto, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal
| | - Sofia Esteves
- Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, Universidade do Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
- Instituto de Biologia Molecular e Celular, Universidade do Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
- Serviço de Microbiologia, Departamento de Ciências Biológicas, Faculdade de Farmácia da Universidade do Porto, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal
| | - Inês Costa
- Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, Universidade do Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
- Instituto de Biologia Molecular e Celular, Universidade do Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
- Serviço de Microbiologia, Departamento de Ciências Biológicas, Faculdade de Farmácia da Universidade do Porto, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal
| | - Hugo Brancal
- Clínica Veterinária da Covilhã, 6200-293 Covilhã, Portugal
| | - Clara Lima
- Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, Universidade do Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
- Instituto de Biologia Molecular e Celular, Universidade do Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
- Serviço de Microbiologia, Departamento de Ciências Biológicas, Faculdade de Farmácia da Universidade do Porto, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal
| | - Célia Amorim
- Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, Universidade do Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
- Instituto de Biologia Molecular e Celular, Universidade do Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
| | - Luís Cardoso
- Faculdade de Ciências da Saúde, Universidade da Beira Interior, 6200-506 Covilhã, Portugal
- Departamento de Ciências Veterinárias, Escola de Ciências Agrárias e Veterinárias, Universidade de Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro (UTAD), 5000-801 Vila Real, Portugal
- Centro de Ciência Animal e Veterinária (CECAV), UTAD, 5001-801 Vila Real, Portugal
- Laboratório Associado para Ciência Animal e Veterinária (AL4AnimalS), Universidade de Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro (UTAD), 5000-801 Vila Real, Portugal
| | - Nuno Santarém
- Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, Universidade do Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
- Instituto de Biologia Molecular e Celular, Universidade do Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
- Serviço de Microbiologia, Departamento de Ciências Biológicas, Faculdade de Farmácia da Universidade do Porto, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal
| | - Anabela Cordeiro-da-Silva
- Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, Universidade do Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
- Instituto de Biologia Molecular e Celular, Universidade do Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
- Serviço de Microbiologia, Departamento de Ciências Biológicas, Faculdade de Farmácia da Universidade do Porto, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal
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13
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Calvo Alvarez E, D’Alessandro S, Proverbio D, Spada E, Perego R, Taramelli D, Basilico N, Parapini S. In Vitro Antiparasitic Activities of Monovalent Ionophore Compounds for Human and Canine Leishmaniases. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:2337. [PMID: 36139198 PMCID: PMC9495262 DOI: 10.3390/ani12182337] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2022] [Revised: 09/06/2022] [Accepted: 09/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
The leishmaniases are vector-borne parasitic diseases affecting humans and animals, with high mortality rates in endemic countries. Infected dogs represent the main reservoir of infection. Disease control is mainly based on chemotherapy, which, at present, shows serious drawbacks both in humans and dogs. Therefore, the discovery or repurposing of new treatments is mandatory. Here, three monovalent ionophores (salinomycin, monensin, nigericin) were tested against promastigotes of Leishmania (L.) infantum, Leishmania tropica, and Leishmania braziliensis, and against amastigotes of L. infantum within human and, for the first time, canine macrophages. All three drugs were leishmanicidal against all Leishmania spp. promastigotes with IC50 values between 7.98 and 0.23 µM. Monensin and nigericin showed IC50 values < 1 µM, whereas salinomycin was the least active compound (IC50 > 4 µM). Notably, the ionophores killed L. infantum amastigotes within human THP-1 cells with IC50 values ranging from 1.67 to 1.93 µM, but they only reduced by 27−37% the parasite burden in L. infantum-infected canine macrophages, showing a host-specific efficacy. Moreover, a selective higher toxicity against canine macrophages was observed. Overall, repurposed ionophores have the potential to be further investigated as anti-Leishmania agents, but different drug options may be required to tackle human or canine leishmaniases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Estefanía Calvo Alvarez
- Dipartimento di Scienze Biomediche, Chirurgiche e Odontoiatriche, Università degli Studi di Milano, Via Pascal, 36, 20133 Milan, Italy
| | - Sarah D’Alessandro
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari, Università degli Studi di Milano, Via Pascal, 36, 20133 Milan, Italy
| | - Daniela Proverbio
- Dipartimento di Medicina Veterinaria e Scienze Animali, Università degli Studi di Milano, Via dell’Università, 1, 26900 Lodi, Italy
| | - Eva Spada
- Dipartimento di Medicina Veterinaria e Scienze Animali, Università degli Studi di Milano, Via dell’Università, 1, 26900 Lodi, Italy
| | - Roberta Perego
- Dipartimento di Medicina Veterinaria e Scienze Animali, Università degli Studi di Milano, Via dell’Università, 1, 26900 Lodi, Italy
| | - Donatella Taramelli
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari, Università degli Studi di Milano, Via Pascal, 36, 20133 Milan, Italy
| | - Nicoletta Basilico
- Dipartimento di Scienze Biomediche, Chirurgiche e Odontoiatriche, Università degli Studi di Milano, Via Pascal, 36, 20133 Milan, Italy
| | - Silvia Parapini
- Dipartimento di Scienze Biomediche per la Salute, Università degli Studi di Milano, Via Pascal, 36, 20133 Milan, Italy
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14
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Galán-Puchades MT, Solano J, González G, Osuna A, Pascual J, Bueno-Marí R, Franco S, Peracho V, Montalvo T, Fuentes MV. Molecular detection of Leishmania infantum in rats and sand flies in the urban sewers of Barcelona, Spain. Parasit Vectors 2022; 15:211. [PMID: 35710435 PMCID: PMC9201797 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-022-05309-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2021] [Accepted: 05/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Classically, dogs have been considered to be the only reservoir of leishmaniasis in urban areas. However, in a previous study, we found a 33.3% prevalence of Leishmania infantum in the spleens of Norway rats (Rattus norvegicus) sampled in the underground sewer system of the city of Barcelona (Spain). The aim of the present study was to verify, using molecular methods, the potential reservoir role of these rats in the same sewer system. Methods A sensitive real-time PCR (qPCR) assay, DNA sequencing and phylogenetic analysis were carried out to identify and quantify the presence of L. infantum DNA in sand fly individuals captured in the same underground sewer system of Barcelona as in our previous study and in the spleens and ears of rats captured in the same sewer system. Results Leishmania infantum DNA was found in 14 of the 27 (51.9%) sand flies identified as Phlebotomus perniciosus, and 10 of the 24 (41.7%) rats studied were infected. Leishmania infantum was found in the spleens (70%) and in the ears (40%) of the infected rats. Quantitative results revealed the presence of high loads of L. infantum in the rats studied (> 3 × 106 parasites/g ear tissue) and among the sand flies (> 34 × 106 parasites in 1 individual). Conclusions The molecular methods used in this study demonstrated a high prevalence of L. infantum in the underground
sewer populations of both R. norvegicus and P. perniciosus. These results suggest that sewer rats, in addition to dogs, are likely to act as reservoirs of leishmaniasis in cities, where sewer systems seem to offer the ideal scenario for the transmission of leishmaniasis. Therefore, to achieve the WHO 2030 target on the elimination of leishmaniasis as a public health problem successfully, an efficient control strategy against leishmaniasis in rats and sand flies should be implemented, particularly in the sewer systems of urban areas of endemic countries. Graphical Abstract ![]()
Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13071-022-05309-4.
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Affiliation(s)
- María Teresa Galán-Puchades
- Parasite and Health Research Group, Department of Pharmacy, Pharmaceutical Technology and Parasitology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Valencia, 46100, Burjassot, Valencia, Spain.
| | - Jennifer Solano
- Molecular Biochemistry and Parasitology Research Group, Department of Parasitology, Institute of Biotechnology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Granada, 18071, Granada, Spain
| | - Gloria González
- Molecular Biochemistry and Parasitology Research Group, Department of Parasitology, Institute of Biotechnology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Granada, 18071, Granada, Spain
| | - Antonio Osuna
- Molecular Biochemistry and Parasitology Research Group, Department of Parasitology, Institute of Biotechnology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Granada, 18071, Granada, Spain
| | - Jordi Pascual
- Pest Surveillance and Control, Agència de Salut Pública de Barcelona (ASPB), 08023, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Rubén Bueno-Marí
- Parasite and Health Research Group, Department of Pharmacy, Pharmaceutical Technology and Parasitology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Valencia, 46100, Burjassot, Valencia, Spain.,Department of Research and Development, Laboratorios Lokímica, 46980, Paterna, Valencia, Spain
| | - Sandra Franco
- Pest Surveillance and Control, Agència de Salut Pública de Barcelona (ASPB), 08023, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Víctor Peracho
- Pest Surveillance and Control, Agència de Salut Pública de Barcelona (ASPB), 08023, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Tomás Montalvo
- Pest Surveillance and Control, Agència de Salut Pública de Barcelona (ASPB), 08023, Barcelona, Spain.,Biomedical Research Center Network for Epidemiology and Public Health CIBERESP Epidemiology and Public Health, 08023, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Màrius V Fuentes
- Parasite and Health Research Group, Department of Pharmacy, Pharmaceutical Technology and Parasitology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Valencia, 46100, Burjassot, Valencia, Spain
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15
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Villanueva-Saz S, Martínez M, Ramirez JD, Herrera G, Marteles D, Servián M, Verde M, Giner J, Lacasta D, Ruíz H, Yzuel A, Fernández A. Evaluation of five different rapid immunochromatographic tests for canine leishmaniosis in Spain. Acta Trop 2022; 229:106371. [PMID: 35181302 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2022.106371] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2021] [Revised: 02/13/2022] [Accepted: 02/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/01/2022]
Abstract
Canine leishmaniosis is a vector-borne disease caused by Leishmania parasites. Serological methods are the most common tests used for the diagnosis. This study aimed to evaluate and compare different serological commercial immunochromatographic rapid tests available in Spain to detect anti-Leishmania canine antibodies. The immunochromatographic tests were evaluated in different groups of dogs (healthy seronegative dogs (n = 21), naturally-sick dogs with moderate anti-Leishmania antibodies (n = 39), naturally-sick dogs with high anti-Leishmania antibodies (n = 37), dogs with the serological result of other pathogens infection (n = 20) and exposed dogs (n = 33)) admitted to the Veterinary Teaching Hospital of the University of Zaragoza (Spain) according to the clinical information sent with the sample to the laboratory for diagnostic purposes. The serology status was also routinely recorded through an in-house enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and an in-house indirect immunofluorescence test (IFAT). The qualitative commercial serological immunochromatographic tests used were: FASTest LEISH, Uranotest Leishmania, Uranotest Leishmania 2.0, Speed Leish K, Witness Leishmania, and DFV Test Leishmania. Performance measures analyzed for each test were: sensitivity, specificity, and area under the receiver-operating (ROC) curve. The maximum specificity (1.00) was attained for Uranotest Leishmania and DFT Test Leishmania, followed by FASTest LEISH (0.98), Uranotest Leishmania 2.0 (0.98), Speed Leish K (0.98), and Witness Leishmania (0.95). The maximum sensitivity was attained for FASTest LEISH (1.00), followed by Uranotest 2.0 (0.97), Speed Leish K (0.97), Uranotest (0.96), and the lowest results with Witness (0.84) and DFV Test (0.59). Regarding the ROC curve, the maximum value was attained with the FASTest LEISH (0.99), followed by Uranotest (0.98), Uranotest 2.0 (0.97), Speed Leish K (0.97), Witness (0.90), and the lowest result with DFV Test (0.79). Efforts in the field of diagnosis should focus on establishing a commercial immunochromatographic test with high sensitivity and specificity with a reasonable cost-benefit balance.
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16
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Tasić-Otašević S, Savić S, Jurhar-Pavlova M, Stefanovska J, Stalević M, Ignjatović A, Ranđelović M, Gajić B, Cvetkovikj A, Gabrielli S. Molecular Survey of Dirofilaria and Leishmania Species in Dogs from Central Balkan. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:ani12070911. [PMID: 35405899 PMCID: PMC8997140 DOI: 10.3390/ani12070911] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2022] [Revised: 03/30/2022] [Accepted: 03/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Dirofilariosis and leishmaniosis are severe parasitic diseases in dogs, and their causative agents can also be pathogenic to humans. In this study, we conducted a multicentric survey in the regions of Serbia and North Macedonia with the goal to establish an epidemiological scenario of dirofilariosis and leishmaniosis in the territory of Central Balkan. Using molecular analyses, a total of 535 dogs from Northern Serbia (NS), Southern Serbia (SS) and North Macedonia (NM) were screened for the presence of Dirofilaria spp. and Leishmania spp. We confirmed that Central Balkan is an endemic region for Dirofilaria (D.) immitis, as it was found to be the dominant species in this area, with the highest prevalence of 8.75% in NM, followed by NS (6.68%) and a significantly lower prevalence in SS (1.51%). Two dogs (2.5%) from NM were positive for Leishmania (L.) infantum infection. None of the dogs from Serbia tested positive for Leishmania spp. High prevalence and dominance of D. immitis species, and the rising threat of L. infantum spread to the territory of Serbia, suggest that preventive measures are of a great necessity to combat the spread of these vector-borne zoonoses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suzana Tasić-Otašević
- Medical Faculty, University of Niš, 18000 Niš, Serbia; (S.T.-O.); (M.S.); (A.I.); (M.R.)
- Public Health Institute Niš, 18000 Niš, Serbia
| | - Sara Savić
- Scientific Veterinary Institute Novi Sad, 21113 Novi Sad, Serbia;
| | - Maja Jurhar-Pavlova
- Institute for Microbiology and Parasitology, Medical Faculty, Ss. Cyril and Methodius University in Skopje, 1000 Skopje, North Macedonia;
| | - Jovana Stefanovska
- Department of Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine-Skopje, Ss. Cyril and Methodius University in Skopje, 1000 Skopje, North Macedonia; (J.S.); (A.C.)
| | - Marko Stalević
- Medical Faculty, University of Niš, 18000 Niš, Serbia; (S.T.-O.); (M.S.); (A.I.); (M.R.)
| | - Aleksandra Ignjatović
- Medical Faculty, University of Niš, 18000 Niš, Serbia; (S.T.-O.); (M.S.); (A.I.); (M.R.)
- Public Health Institute Niš, 18000 Niš, Serbia
| | - Marina Ranđelović
- Medical Faculty, University of Niš, 18000 Niš, Serbia; (S.T.-O.); (M.S.); (A.I.); (M.R.)
- Public Health Institute Niš, 18000 Niš, Serbia
| | - Bojan Gajić
- College of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, UAE University, Al Ain P.O. Box 15551, United Arab Emirates;
| | - Aleksandar Cvetkovikj
- Department of Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine-Skopje, Ss. Cyril and Methodius University in Skopje, 1000 Skopje, North Macedonia; (J.S.); (A.C.)
| | - Simona Gabrielli
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, Piazzale Aldo Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-06499914589
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Jesus L, Arenas C, Domínguez-Ruiz M, Silvestrini P, Englar RE, Roura X, Leal RO. Xanthinuria secondary to allopurinol treatment in dogs with leishmaniosis: Current perspectives of the Iberian veterinary community. Comp Immunol Microbiol Infect Dis 2022; 83:101783. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cimid.2022.101783] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2022] [Revised: 02/22/2022] [Accepted: 02/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
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Pinto-García L. Military Dogs and Their Soldier Companions: The More-than-human Biopolitics of Leishmaniasis in Conflict-torn Colombia. Med Anthropol Q 2022; 36:237-255. [PMID: 35107182 PMCID: PMC9304211 DOI: 10.1111/maq.12694] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2021] [Revised: 12/16/2021] [Accepted: 12/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Cutaneous leishmaniasis is a vector‐borne disease that produces growing skin ulcers. In Colombia, the transmitting phlebotomine sandfly is native to the same jungles that have been the primary theater of war. Although combatants are the most affected by leishmaniasis, military landmine detection dogs are also significantly impacted. This article draws on ethnographic field research with human and canine members of the Colombian military. While their leishmaniasis ulcers constitute a shared expression of violence that makes evident the closeness of the human–dog bond, differences in their state‐provided health care reveal the production of shifting species hierarchies. I argue that war scrambles both human–dog affective relationships and biopolitically configured interspecies hierarchies in ways that produce suffering, not just for humans and dogs separately, but also for the bonds they forge together. Building peace through health care demands repairing the ways in which armed violence has rendered the bonds between humans and nonhumans pathological.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lina Pinto-García
- Department of Science & Technology Studies, York University, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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19
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Beasley EA, Mahachi KG, Petersen CA. Possibility of Leishmania Transmission via Lutzomyia spp. Sand Flies Within the USA and Implications for Human and Canine Autochthonous Infection. CURRENT TROPICAL MEDICINE REPORTS 2022; 9:160-168. [PMID: 36159745 PMCID: PMC9490703 DOI: 10.1007/s40475-022-00267-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/06/2022] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
Purpose of Review Leishmaniasis is a leading cause of parasitic death, with incidence rising from decreased resources to administer insecticide and anti-leishmanial treatments due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Leishmaniasis is nonendemic in the United States (U.S.), but enzootic canine populations and potentially competent vectors warrant monitoring of autochthonous disease as a fluctuating climate facilitates vector expansion. Recent studies concerning sand fly distribution and vector capacity were assessed for implications of autochthonous transmission within the U.S. Recent Findings Climate change and insecticide resistance provide challenges in sand fly control. While most Leishmania-infected dogs in the U.S. were infected via vertical transmission or were imported, autochthonous vector-borne cases were reported. Autochthonous vector-borne human cases have been reported in four states. Further vaccine research could contribute to infection control. Summary Both cutaneous and visceral leishmaniasis cases in the U.S. are increasingly reported. Prevention measures including vector control and responsible animal breeding are critical to halt this zoonotic disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erin A. Beasley
- Department of Epidemiology, College of Public Health, CPHB S429, University of Iowa, 145 N. Riverside Drive, Iowa City, Iowa, USA
- Center for Emerging Infectious Diseases, College of Public Health, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa, USA
| | - Kurayi G. Mahachi
- Department of Epidemiology, College of Public Health, CPHB S429, University of Iowa, 145 N. Riverside Drive, Iowa City, Iowa, USA
- Center for Emerging Infectious Diseases, College of Public Health, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa, USA
| | - Christine A. Petersen
- Department of Epidemiology, College of Public Health, CPHB S429, University of Iowa, 145 N. Riverside Drive, Iowa City, Iowa, USA
- Center for Emerging Infectious Diseases, College of Public Health, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa, USA
- Interdepartmental Immunology Program, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa, USA
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20
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Vioti G, da Silva MD, Galvis-Ovallos F, Alves ML, da Silva DT, Leonel JAF, Pereira NWB, Benassi JC, Spada JCP, Maia C, Galati EAB, Starke-Buzetti WA, Oliveira TMFDS. Xenodiagnosis in four domestic cats naturally infected by Leishmania infantum. Transbound Emerg Dis 2021; 69:2182-2190. [PMID: 34229362 DOI: 10.1111/tbed.14216] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2021] [Revised: 06/27/2021] [Accepted: 06/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Leishmaniasis is a neglected tropical disease that continues to pose a serious public health problem. Albeit dogs have long been held as the major reservoirs of Leishmania infantum, the involvement of domestic cats in the zoonotic cycle of visceral leishmaniasis has gained prominence. Here, 240 cats were evaluated by clinical signs and haematological/biochemical changes compatible with leishmaniasis and were diagnosed by serological, molecular, and parasitological techniques. Thus, four cats naturally infected by L. infantum were submitted to xenodiagnosis. A total of 203 females of Lutzomyia longipalpis were subjected to feeding on four cats, with all females completing the blood meal. Parasitological and molecular assays were carried out to evaluate the presence of L. infantum in the sand flies' midgut. Promastigotes were observed in 10 females (6.5%) that fed on one cat, and L. infantum DNA was detected in 17 (8.4%) females that fed on two cats. Our results strengthen the evidence that naturally infected cats are capable of transmitting L. infantum to sand flies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Geovanna Vioti
- Post-Graduate Program in Experimental Epidemiology Applied to Zoonoses at the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Mariana Dantas da Silva
- Department of Epidemiology, Faculty of Public Health, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Fredy Galvis-Ovallos
- Department of Epidemiology, Faculty of Public Health, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Maria Luana Alves
- Post-Graduate Program in Experimental Epidemiology Applied to Zoonoses at the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Diogo Tiago da Silva
- Post-Graduate Program in Experimental Epidemiology Applied to Zoonoses at the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - João Augusto Franco Leonel
- Post-Graduate Program in Experimental Epidemiology Applied to Zoonoses at the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Nuno Wolfgang Balbini Pereira
- Post-Graduate Program in Experimental Epidemiology Applied to Zoonoses at the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Julia Cristina Benassi
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Animal Science and Food Engineering, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Júlio Cesar Pereira Spada
- Post-Graduate Program in Experimental Epidemiology Applied to Zoonoses at the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Carla Maia
- Department of Biology and Animal Science, Universidade Estadual Paulista, Ilha Solteira, Brazil
| | | | - Wilma Aparecida Starke-Buzetti
- Global Health and Tropical Medicine (GHTM), Instituto de Higiene e Medicina Tropical (IHMT), Universidade NOVA de Lisboa (NOVA), Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Trícia Maria Ferreira de Sousa Oliveira
- Post-Graduate Program in Experimental Epidemiology Applied to Zoonoses at the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil.,Department of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Animal Science and Food Engineering, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
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21
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Pomel S, Cojean S, Pons V, Cintrat JC, Nguyen L, Vacus J, Pruvost A, Barbier J, Gillet D, Loiseau PM. An adamantamine derivative as a drug candidate for the treatment of visceral leishmaniasis. J Antimicrob Chemother 2021; 76:2640-2650. [PMID: 34212184 DOI: 10.1093/jac/dkab226] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2021] [Accepted: 06/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND This study aimed to investigate compounds acting on the host cell machinery to impair parasite installation with the possible advantage of limiting drug resistance. The strategy therefore consisted of selecting compounds that are poorly active on the axenic parasite, but very active on the intramacrophage form of Leishmania. OBJECTIVES To identify a drug candidate from focused screening of adamantamine derivatives that can inhibit the development of Leishmania infantum in macrophages. METHODS In vitro screening was performed on a library of 142 adamantamine derivatives with axenic and intramacrophage forms of L. infantum, as well as cytotoxicity assays, allowing selection of the most promising compound. Absorption, distribution, metabolism and excretion (ADME) experiments, including pharmacokinetics and microsomal stability, were performed and finally the physicochemical stability of the compound was investigated to assess its suitability for further drug development. RESULTS VP343 was identified first in vitro, with a CC50 value of 63.7 μM and an IC50 value of 0.32 μM for L. infantum intramacrophage amastigotes and then in vivo, with a 59% reduction of the liver parasite burden after oral administration at 10 mg/kg/day for 5 days. In addition, the ADME data were compatible with moving this compound further through the antileishmanial drug candidate pipeline. CONCLUSIONS VP343 has the properties of a good drug candidate and merits further investigations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sébastien Pomel
- Université Paris-Saclay, CNRS, BioCIS, 92290, Châtenay-Malabry, France
| | - Sandrine Cojean
- Université Paris-Saclay, CNRS, BioCIS, 92290, Châtenay-Malabry, France
| | - Valérie Pons
- Université Paris-Saclay, CEA, INRAE, Département Médicaments et Technologies pour la Santé (DMTS), SCBM, 91191, Gif-sur-Yvette, France
| | - Jean-Christophe Cintrat
- Université Paris-Saclay, CEA, INRAE, Département Médicaments et Technologies pour la Santé (DMTS), SCBM, 91191, Gif-sur-Yvette, France
| | - Laetitia Nguyen
- Université Paris-Saclay, CEA, INRAE, Département Médicaments et Technologies pour la Santé (DMTS), SPI, 91191, Gif-sur-Yvette, France
| | - Joël Vacus
- Drugabilis, 7, Allée de Londres, 91140, Villejust, France
| | - Alain Pruvost
- Université Paris-Saclay, CEA, INRAE, Département Médicaments et Technologies pour la Santé (DMTS), SPI, 91191, Gif-sur-Yvette, France
| | - Julien Barbier
- Université Paris-Saclay, CEA, INRAE, Département Médicaments et Technologies pour la Santé (DMTS), SIMoS, 91191, Gif-sur-Yvette, France
| | - Daniel Gillet
- Université Paris-Saclay, CEA, INRAE, Département Médicaments et Technologies pour la Santé (DMTS), SIMoS, 91191, Gif-sur-Yvette, France
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22
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Monteiro M, Prata S, Cardoso L, Pereira da Fonseca I, Leal RO. Diagnosis and clinical management of canine leishmaniosis by general veterinary practitioners: a questionnaire-based survey in Portugal. Parasit Vectors 2021; 14:306. [PMID: 34099039 PMCID: PMC8182999 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-021-04799-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2021] [Accepted: 05/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Canine leishmaniosis (CanL) can be appropriately managed following international recommendations. However, few studies have assessed the preferred protocols in real-life veterinary practice and whether these are in line with the guidelines. This survey aimed to investigate the current trends in the clinical management of CanL among veterinary practitioners in Portugal, taking into consideration different scenarios of infection/disease and the awareness of and application by veterinary practitioners of the current guidelines. METHODS A questionnaire-based survey was conducted online using an electronic platform. The following topics were surveyed: (i) general characteristics of the responding veterinarian; (ii) the preferred protocols used for the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of CanL, considering different theoretical scenarios of infection/disease; and (iii) the responding veterinarian's current knowledge and application of the existing guidelines on CanL. After internal validation, the survey was distributed online, for 2 months, via Portuguese social network veterinary groups. Data were collected for descriptive analysis. RESULTS Eighty-six replies were obtained. Analysis of the results showed that the preferred diagnostic techniques varied widely according to the theoretical scenario of infection/disease. In general daily practice, serology testing (enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay [ELISA]) was the most used tool (67.4%). The preferred matrices used for PCR test were lymph nodes (62.3%) and/or bone marrow (59.0%). Regarding treatment, for subclinical infection/stage I CanL, 51.2% of the respondents did not prescribe any medical treatment, but 98.8% proceeded with both monitoring and preventive measures. Among those who prescribed a treatment (n = 42), most chose domperidone (47.6%). For the treament of stages IIa, IIb and III CanL, allopurinol/meglumine antimoniate (MA) was chosen by 69.8, 73.3 and 51.2% of respondents, respectively, followed by allopurinol/miltefosine (20.9, 19.8 and 38.4%, respectively). In contrast, dogs with stage IV CanL were mostly treated with allopurinol/miltefosine (48.8%) rather than with allopurinol/MA (23.3%). The use of repellents was the preferred preventive strategy (98.8%). About 93.0% of responders were aware of the existence of guidelines, and most of these veterinarians consulted the guidelines of the LeishVet group and the Canine Leishmaniosis Working Group; however, 31.3% reported that they did not follow any specific recommendations. CONCLUSIONS Of the veterinarians responding to the survey, most reported following international guidelines for the clinical management of CanL. While allopurinol/MA was the preferred therapeutic protocol for the treatment of stages II/III CanL, allopurinol/miltefosine was the first choice for the treatment of stage IV CanL, possibly due to the unpredictable effect of MA on renal function. This study contributes to a better understanding of the trends in practical approaches to the treatment of CanL in Portugal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Monteiro
- Hospital Escolar Veterinário, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Sara Prata
- Hospital Escolar Veterinário, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Luís Cardoso
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, and Animal and Veterinary Research Centre (CECAV), University of Trás-Os-Montes e Alto Douro (UTAD), Vila Real, Portugal
| | - Isabel Pereira da Fonseca
- Hospital Escolar Veterinário, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
- Centro de Investigação Interdisciplinar em Sanidade Animal (CIISA), Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Rodolfo Oliveira Leal
- Hospital Escolar Veterinário, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal.
- Centro de Investigação Interdisciplinar em Sanidade Animal (CIISA), Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal.
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23
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Gizzarelli M, Bosco A, Foglia Manzillo V, Bongiorno G, Bianchi R, Giaquinto D, Ben Fayala NEH, Varloud M, Crippa A, Gradoni L, Cringoli G, Maurelli MP, Rinaldi L, Oliva G. Examining the Relationship of Clinical and Laboratory Parameters With Infectiousness to Phlebotomus perniciosus and Its Potential Infectivity in Dogs With Overt Clinical Leishmaniasis. Front Vet Sci 2021; 8:667290. [PMID: 34017871 PMCID: PMC8129199 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2021.667290] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2021] [Accepted: 03/18/2021] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Infected dogs are considered the main domestic animal reservoirs for Leishmania infantum parasite. Infectiousness to competent phlebotomine vectors has been associated with many factors, the main being the severity of the disease exhibited by infected dogs. This study examines the relationship between different clinical parameters and the infectiousness to colonized Phlebotomus perniciosus sand flies having a blood meal on dogs. Data obtained in the present study come from an untreated group of Leishmania sick dogs submitted to xenodiagnosis for the evaluation of a spot on insecticide solution. Seventeen dogs were diagnosed as affected by leishmaniasis through clinical examination, immunofluorescence antibody test (IFAT) serology, and loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP). The disease severity (clinical score) was staged by using a numeric value derived from eight clinical and parasitological parameters. Xenodiagnosis was performed on caged dogs exposed for 1.5 h to sand-fly bites. The following parameters related to sand flies were examined: blood feeding (% of blood engorged females), promastigote detection (% of promastigote-positive sand flies), promastigote burden, and the promastigote stage maturation (potential transmissibility rate). Statistical relationship between the clinical score and entomological parameters was investigated, as well as the possible correlation between each clinical and laboratory parameters and sand fly infection/infectivity. The severity of clinical score may influence the blood feeding by, and the probability of promastigote detection in, sand flies; skin lesions seem to be the main factor that influences the rate of blood feeding. Promastigote burden is related to IFAT titer, skin lesions, and clinical score. All entomological parameters are strongly related among them. This study confirms that both P. perniciosus infection and infectivity are influenced by a dog's clinical condition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manuela Gizzarelli
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Antonio Bosco
- Unit of Vector-Borne Diseases, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - Valentina Foglia Manzillo
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Gioia Bongiorno
- Unit of Vector-Borne Diseases, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - Riccardo Bianchi
- Unit of Vector-Borne Diseases, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - Daniela Giaquinto
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Nour El Houda Ben Fayala
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | | | | | - Luigi Gradoni
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Cringoli
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Maria Paola Maurelli
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Laura Rinaldi
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Gaetano Oliva
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
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Exposure to Major Vector-Borne Diseases in Dogs Subjected to Different Preventative Regimens in Endemic Areas of Italy. Pathogens 2021; 10:pathogens10050507. [PMID: 33922459 PMCID: PMC8146437 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens10050507] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2021] [Revised: 04/20/2021] [Accepted: 04/21/2021] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Vector-borne diseases (VBDs) are globally widespread arthropod-transmitted diseases with a significant impact on animal and human health. Many drivers have recently spurred the geographic spread of VBDs in dogs. This study has evaluated the exposure to most important VBDs in dogs under different preventative treatments in different regions of Italy, i.e., Veneto, Friuli Venezia-Giulia, Umbria, Giglio Island (Tuscany), Abruzzo and Latium. Serological analyses were performed to detect antibodies against Leishmania infantum, Babesia canis, Anaplasma phagocytophilum/Anaplasma platys, Ehrlichia canis/Ehrlichia ewingii, Borrelia burgdorferi, Rickettsia conorii and the circulating antigen of Dirofilaria immitis. Dogs were categorized according to the treatment schedule usually received, and the association between seropositivity and possible risk factors was statistically evaluated. Overall, 124/242 (51.2%) dogs tested positive for at least one pathogen, while 34 (14.0%) were exposed to two or more pathogens. The most detected seropositivity was against R. conorii, followed by Anaplasma spp., L. infantum, B. canis, and the other pathogens under study. Significant statistical associations were found according to geographical provenance, history of tick infestation, lifestyle and inadequate prophylactic treatments. Random/irregular treatments have been identified as a clear risk factor. These results show that adequate prophylactic treatment protocols are overlooked by dog owners, despite the availability of several effective products, with possible implications in veterinary medicine and on public health.
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The balance between IL-12/IL4 in renal tissue switches the inflammatory response arm and shows relationship with the clinical signs in Leishmania-infected dogs. Vet Immunol Immunopathol 2021; 234:110196. [PMID: 33582406 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetimm.2021.110196] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2020] [Revised: 12/21/2020] [Accepted: 01/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
The pathogenesis of Canine leishmaniosis (CanL) is associated with altered cytokine expression and parasitic tissue shows a lot of inflammation. The aim of this study was to assess the renal inflammation and cytokine expression in eight symptomatic and eight asymptomatic Leishmania- infected dogs, and seven uninfected control dogs. Kidney fragments were stained with hematoxylin and eosin for morphometric evaluation. mRNA expression levels of interferon gamma (IFN-γ), tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), interleukin (IL)-2, IL-4, IL-10, and IL-12 were assessed in the kidney fragments using quantitative real time-polymerase chain reaction. Inflammation, quantified by the average area of the infiltrated immune cells, was greater in symptomatic dogs than in those asymptomatic, whereas asymptomatic dogs exhibited higher inflammation than the control dogs (p > 0.05, Tukey's test). Expression levels of IFN-γ, TNF-α, IL-4, IL-10, and IL-12 were upregulated in symptomatic dogs and downregulated in asymptomatic dogs compared with those of the uninfected group. Furthermore, IL-4 showed higher expression in symptomatic dogs than in asymptomatic ones (p < 0.05, Mann-Whitney test), which was directly associated with clinical manifestations (p < 0.05, Chi-square test). However, IL-12 was predominantly expressed in symptomatic dogs, shifting the balance from IL-12/IL-4 to IL-12, which elicits a change in the inflammatory response. Leishmania was not found in the renal tissues in any one of the studied groups. Our data suggests that the balance between IL-12 and IL-4 plays an important role in the regulation of inflammation in renal tissue and clinical presentations in CanL.
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Medkour H, Bitam I, Laidoudi Y, Lafri I, Lounas A, Hamidat HK, Mekroud A, Varloud M, Davoust B, Mediannikov O. Potential of Artesunate in the treatment of visceral leishmaniasis in dogs naturally infected by Leishmania infantum: Efficacy evidence from a randomized field trial. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2020; 14:e0008947. [PMID: 33338041 PMCID: PMC7781483 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0008947] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2020] [Revised: 01/04/2021] [Accepted: 11/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Leishmaniasis is among the world’s most neglected diseases. Dogs are the main reservoirs/hosts of Leishmania infantum, causative agent of both canine and human visceral leishmaniosis. Canine leishmaniasis (CanL) represents a public health problem as one of the most prevalent zoonotic diseases worldwide. Current therapeutics present drawbacks; thus, there is a need for more effective, safer, and cheaper drugs. The aim of this study was to evaluate and to compare the efficacy of oral administration of artesunate or meglumine antimoniate/allopurinol in dogs with clinical leishmaniasis. Forty-two dogs with naturally occurring clinical leishmaniasis were included in this open-label, simple randomized positive-control clinical field trial with 6 months of follow-up. Dogs received meglumine antimoniate 100 mg/kg/day and allopurinol 30 mg/kg/day for 28 days (control group, n = 26) or artesunate 25 mg/kg/day for 6 days (test group, n = 16). The animals were evaluated for their clinical evolution, parasite load (by qPCR) and humoral response at different time points: 0, 30, 90, and 180 days after treatment. Data analyses showed a significant improvement in both groups in clinical scores, parasitemia and antibody titers after treatment. Compared to the control group, the artesunate group showed significantly lower clinical score (P = 0.0001), lower parasitemia (P = 0.0001) and antibody titers after 6 months of follow-up. Compared to baseline values, a rapid, significant reduction (P < 0.012) in antibody levels, 2.28- versus 3.04-fold for the control versus artesunate groups, respectively, was observed 30 days after treatment. Antibody levels continued to decrease further in the artesunate group, where 58% of cases became seronegative at the 6-month follow-up. All qPCR-positive dogs were negative after treatment with artesunate, while 14.3% remained positive with the appearance of two new cases in the control group. Artesunate was well tolerated, and no side effects were recorded. Treatment failures were similar in both groups with 27.27% (6/22), including 18.18% (4/22) mortality in the control group, versus 26.66% (4/15), including 13.33% (2/15) mortality in the artesunate group. This is the first report showing the potential of artesunate in the treatment of dogs with clinical leishmaniasis. Artesunate showed higher efficacy than the current first-line treatment for CanL without any adverse effects. It could be a good alternative chemotherapy for CanL, and may be considered for further studies in human leishmaniases. Further clinical trials are needed to confirm these findings, to determine if there are relapses after treatment and if dogs remain infective to sandflies, to define the ideal therapeutic dosage and duration of treatment with artesunate. Canine leishmaniasis (CanL) is a fatal, zoonotic vector-borne disease caused by Leishmania infantum, a common pathogen for both humans and dogs. Most CanL therapeutics are toxic, expensive, or ineffective. Artemisinin and derivatives have recently demonstrated potent antileishmanial activity in vitro and in experimental models. In this study, dogs with clinical leishmaniasis were randomly included in one of the treatment groups: meglumine antimoniate/allopurinol (control) or artesunate (alternative). Dogs were followed up for 6 months for their clinical score, parasitemia and Leishmania antibody levels. Both groups showed improved clinical scores, parasitemia and antibody titers after treatment. After six months of follow-up, treatment success was very similar in both groups, and 72.73% (16/22) of the controls versus 73.34% (11/15) in the artesunate group had clinical improvement. All dogs initially seropositive by PCR became negative after artesunate treatment, while 14.3% remained positive with the appearance of new cases in the control group. Antibody titers decreased rapidly (from day 30) from baseline especially in the artesunate group, where 58% of the dogs converted to seronegative after 6 months. Artesunate could be a good alternative for treatment of leishmaniasis. Additional clinical trials are needed to obtain more data on this drug.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hacène Medkour
- IHU-Méditerranée Infection, Marseille, France
- Aix Marseille Univ., IRD, AP-HM, MEPHI, Marseille, France
- PADESCA Laboratory, Veterinary Science Institute, University Constantine 1, El Khroub, Algeria
| | - Idir Bitam
- Aix-Marseille Univ, IRD, AP-HM, SSA, VITROME, Marseille, France
- Superior School of Food Sciences and Food Industries of Algiers, Algeria
| | - Younes Laidoudi
- IHU-Méditerranée Infection, Marseille, France
- Aix Marseille Univ., IRD, AP-HM, MEPHI, Marseille, France
- PADESCA Laboratory, Veterinary Science Institute, University Constantine 1, El Khroub, Algeria
| | - Ismail Lafri
- Aix-Marseille Univ, IRD, AP-HM, SSA, VITROME, Marseille, France
- Institute of Veterinary Sciences, University of Blida 1, Algeria
- Laboratory of Biotechnology related to Animal Reproduction (LBRA), University of Blida, Blida, Algeria
| | - Abdelaziz Lounas
- Institute of Veterinary Sciences, University of Blida 1, Algeria
- Laboratory of Biotechnology related to Animal Reproduction (LBRA), University of Blida, Blida, Algeria
| | - Hamza Karim Hamidat
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Boumerdes, Algeria
| | - Abdeslam Mekroud
- PADESCA Laboratory, Veterinary Science Institute, University Constantine 1, El Khroub, Algeria
| | | | - Bernard Davoust
- IHU-Méditerranée Infection, Marseille, France
- Aix Marseille Univ., IRD, AP-HM, MEPHI, Marseille, France
| | - Oleg Mediannikov
- IHU-Méditerranée Infection, Marseille, France
- Aix Marseille Univ., IRD, AP-HM, MEPHI, Marseille, France
- * E-mail:
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Zini E, Muscardin L, D'Anna N, Fondati A, Gradoni L, Lubas G, Paltrinieri S, Roura X, Zatelli A, Maroli M. Preventive measures of canine leishmaniosis in Italy: Attitudes of veterinarians based on a questionnaire. Prev Vet Med 2020; 183:105148. [PMID: 32956990 DOI: 10.1016/j.prevetmed.2020.105148] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2020] [Revised: 08/30/2020] [Accepted: 09/03/2020] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
There are several topical ectoparasiticides, drugs, supplements and vaccines that protect dogs against sand fly bites and/or reduce the risk of Leishmania infantum infection. This large variety of products and the absence of comparative studies mean that veterinarians are often faced with uncertainty. The aim of the study was to characterise the attitudes of veterinarians towards leishmaniosis prevention in client-owned dogs in Italy. A web-based questionnaire was prepared with 28 questions covering the working environment of veterinarians, advice given to owners regarding topical ectoparasiticides, advice on systemic prevention, and the use of diagnostic tests on which to base advice for prevention. The questionnaire was emailed to 9,426 veterinarians and answers were collected after 100 days. A total of 542 questionnaires were returned (response percentage 5.8 %): 54.8 % of the veterinarians considered their working area to be endemic, 29.3 % examined dogs from urban areas, and 42.3 % diagnosed ≥10 dogs/year with leishmaniosis. Those veterinarians who diagnosed ≥10 dogs/year with leishmaniosis were more likely to consider their working area to be endemic, whereas those who examined dogs mainly from urban areas were less likely to consider the area to be endemic. Veterinarians who considered the working area to be endemic were more prone to prescribe ectoparasiticides throughout the year, including collars and spot-on products and a combination of the two, vaccine alone or vaccine and domperidone combined, and used qualitative serological Leishmania tests. The attitude of veterinarians did not differ whether dogs were from urban or rural areas. In conclusion, veterinarians who consider their working area to be endemic or who frequently diagnose dogs with leishmaniosis tend to adopt more comprehensive strategies, and their attitudes are not influenced by the origin of the dogs: urban or rural. Overall, in Italy the attitudes of veterinarians in relation to canine leishmaniosis prevention appear to vary considerably.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric Zini
- Department of Animal Medicine, Production and Health, University of Padua, Viale dell'Università 16, 35020 Legnaro, PD, Italy; Clinic for Small Animal Internal Medicine, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstrasse 260, 8057 Zurich, Switzerland; AniCura Istituto Veterinario Novara, Strada Provinciale 9, 28060 Granozzo con Monticello, NO, Italy.
| | - Lorenza Muscardin
- Department of Animal Medicine, Production and Health, University of Padua, Viale dell'Università 16, 35020 Legnaro, PD, Italy
| | - Nunzio D'Anna
- Policlinico Veterinario Roma Sud, Ophthalmology, Via Pilade Mazza 24, 00173 Rome, Italy
| | | | - Luigi Gradoni
- Unit of Vector-borne Diseases, Department of Infectious Diseases, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena 299, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - George Lubas
- Department of Veterinary Science, University of Pisa, Via Livornese (SP22), 56122 San Piero a Grado, PI, Italy
| | - Saverio Paltrinieri
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Milan, Via Celoria 10, 20122 Milan, Italy
| | - Xavier Roura
- Hospital Clínic Veterinari, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Carrer de l'Hospital s/n, 08193 Bellaterra, Spain
| | - Andrea Zatelli
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Bari, Strada Provinciale per Casamassima km 3, 70010 Valenzano, BA, Italy
| | - Michele Maroli
- formerly, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena 299, 00161 Rome, Italy
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28
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Montoya A, Gálvez R, Checa R, Sarquis J, Plaza A, Barrera JP, Marino V, Miró G. Latest trends in L. infantum infection in dogs in Spain, Part II: current clinical management and control according to a national survey of veterinary practitioners. Parasit Vectors 2020; 13:205. [PMID: 32317018 PMCID: PMC7175573 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-020-04080-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2020] [Accepted: 04/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Canine leishmaniosis (CanL) is a parasitic zoonotic disease, endemic in the Mediterranean basin including Spain. While knowledge about CanL, its management, treatment, prevention and control mounts, it remains unclear whether all clinical veterinarians follow the same international recommendations, such as those of the LeishVet group. This study was thus designed to assess recent trends in the clinical management of CanL in veterinary clinics across Spain through a questionnaire-based survey. Results were compared with those of a prior national multicenter questionnaire administered by our research team in 2005. Methods A questionnaire consisting of 28 questions about CanL was developed using Google Forms and distributed by email to 1428 veterinary clinics in Spain. Questions were designed to obtain data on common clinical signs, techniques and complementary exams used to diagnose the disease, and on its monitoring, treatment and control measures. Data were collected in a database for statistical analysis. Results Completed questionnaires were returned by 295 clinics. Compared to the situation in 2005, responses indicate that clinical signs of CanL have not changed significantly, cutaneous lesions being still the most prevalent sign observed by practitioners. Quantitative serological techniques are considered an adequate approach to diagnosis, provided their results are supported by the findings of a thorough physical exam, as well as complementary tests (complete blood count, biochemical profile, plasma protein electrophoretogram and complete urinalysis). Treatment protocols and check-ups follow international recommendations. Finally, a multimodal approach is being endorsed to adequately control CanL including preventive measures such as annual serological check-ups and the combination of repellents and vaccines. Additionally, owners are being better informed about CanL by veterinarians, which translates to the improved control of this zoonosis. Conclusions The clinical management of CanL has recently undergone significant changes owing to improvements in clinical knowledge of the disease, more unified international criteria, improved diagnostic techniques and their adequate interpretation, as well as a greater awareness of the disease transmitted to owners.![]()
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Montoya
- Grupo de investigación Epicontrol-Carnívoros, Departamento de Sanidad Animal, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Rosa Gálvez
- Grupo de investigación Epicontrol-Carnívoros, Departamento de Sanidad Animal, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Rocío Checa
- Grupo de investigación Epicontrol-Carnívoros, Departamento de Sanidad Animal, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Juliana Sarquis
- Grupo de investigación Epicontrol-Carnívoros, Departamento de Sanidad Animal, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Alexandra Plaza
- Grupo de investigación Epicontrol-Carnívoros, Departamento de Sanidad Animal, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Juan Pedro Barrera
- Grupo de investigación Epicontrol-Carnívoros, Departamento de Sanidad Animal, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Valentina Marino
- Grupo de investigación Epicontrol-Carnívoros, Departamento de Sanidad Animal, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Guadalupe Miró
- Grupo de investigación Epicontrol-Carnívoros, Departamento de Sanidad Animal, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, Spain.
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Heidari A, Mohebali M, Vahed M, Kabir K, Zarei Z, Akhoundi B, Elikaee S, Barati H, Sezavar M, Keshavarz H, Kakooei Z, Hajjaran H. Molecular and Seroepidemiological Survey of Visceral Leishmaniasis in Owned Dogs ( Canis familiaris) in New Foci of Rural Areas of Alborz Province, Central Part of Iran: A Cross-Sectional Study in 2017. J Arthropod Borne Dis 2020; 14:38-46. [PMID: 32766347 PMCID: PMC7382694 DOI: 10.18502/jad.v14i1.2702] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2019] [Accepted: 03/12/2020] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Mediterranean form of visceral leishmaniasis (VL) is endemic among some provinces of Iran. The present study was designed to determine the prevalence of canine visceral leishmaniasis (CVL) in the owned dogs of the rural areas of Alborz Province near Tehran as the capital of Iran. Methods: This study conducted on 303 owned dogs that selected using a stratified random sampling method. The direct agglutination test (DAT) was used to determine the frequency of Vl. The spleen biopsy was taken from the serology-positive dogs for the confirmation of CVL in the suspected dogs. Nested PCR and sequencing methods were used to determine the type of Leishmania species in the dogs which were parasitological positive. Results: Overall, the DAT results of 9 dogs (2.97%, CI: 1.57–5.55) showed anti Leishmania antibodies at titers ≥ 1:320 indicating VL infection. One dog (0.33%, CI 95%: 0.06–1.85) showed clinical signs and symptoms of VL. There was a significant correlation between the positive cases of CVL and rural area (p< 0.001). The Leishmania was observed in the impression smears that were prepared from spleen biopsy of five the studied dogs. Leishmania infantum were confirmed in all them using nested–PCR assay. The sequence analysis of all five isolates was 95% similar to L. infantum. Conclusion: This study shows that domestic cycle of L. infantum has been established in rural areas of Alborz province where located near Tehran as capital city of Iran. It is necessary to increase the awareness and monitoring of the disease periodically.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aliehsan Heidari
- Department of Parasitology, School of Medicine, Alborz University of Medical Sciences, Karaj, Iran
| | - Mehdi Mohebali
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.,Center for Research of Endemic Parasites of Iran (CREPI), Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mozhgan Vahed
- Center for Research of Endemic Parasites of Iran (CREPI), Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Kourosh Kabir
- Social Determinant of Health Research Center, Alborz University of Medical Sciences, Karaj, Iran
| | - Zabihollah Zarei
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Behnaz Akhoundi
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Samira Elikaee
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hojatallah Barati
- Center of Against Infectious Diseases, Health Depatment, Alborz University of Medical Sciences, Karaj, Iran
| | - Monireh Sezavar
- Department of Experimental Sciences, Faculty of Allied medicine, Alborz University of Medical Sciences, Karaj, Iran
| | - Hossein Keshavarz
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.,Center for Research of Endemic Parasites of Iran (CREPI), Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Zahra Kakooei
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Homa Hajjaran
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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30
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Galán-Puchades MT, Gómez-Samblás M, Suárez-Morán JM, Osuna A, Sanxis-Furió J, Pascual J, Bueno-Marí R, Franco S, Peracho V, Montalvo T, Fuentes MV. Leishmaniasis in Norway Rats in Sewers, Barcelona, Spain. Emerg Infect Dis 2019; 25:1222-1224. [PMID: 31107216 PMCID: PMC6537722 DOI: 10.3201/eid2506.181027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
We detected Leishmania infantum in 98 Norway rats (Rattus norvegicus) trapped in parks and sewers of Barcelona, Spain. The 84 rats from the sewers showed a prevalence of 33.3% and up to 2,272 estimated parasites. These results, in the most abundant potential reservoir in cities, is of public health concern.
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31
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Ahmad A. Epidemiology and spatiotemporal analysis of visceral leishmaniasis in Palestine from 1990 to 2017. Int J Infect Dis 2019; 90:206-212. [PMID: 31704227 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijid.2019.10.044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2019] [Revised: 10/28/2019] [Accepted: 10/30/2019] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Visceral leishmaniasis (VL) is a deadly disease endemic in all countries around the Mediterranean Sea. In Palestine, VL is transmitted to humans from infected dogs by a sandfly bite. The aim of this study was to investigate the epidemiology and spatiotemporal pattern of VL in Palestine within a period of 27 years (1990-2017). METHODS A long-term descriptive epidemiological study on human VL was conducted based on patient's profiles to calculated disease prevalence, geographical, spatiotemporal and seasonal distribution, distribution by age and gender, diagnosis, treatment, and treatment outcome. RESULTS A total of 343 patients were reported, the average annual incidence rate was 0.73 case/100000 population. Most cases came from the western parts of the West Bank. The number of reported males was 162 (51%), and patient's age ranged from 4 months to 16 years (average 2.5 years), of which 93.3% were ≤5 years old. The annual incidence rate increased between 1993-1999, peaked in 1995, and dropped as from 2002. The future projections of VL indicate that the endemic foci in most governorates are projected to disappear in the future and only the very northwest of the West Bank will be at risk of VL. CONCLUSIONS Visceral leishmaniasis continues to be endemic in the West Bank but not the Gaza Strip. Pentavalent antimonial sodium stibogluconate continues to be the first line treatment and physicians are recommended to consider liposomal Amphotericin B (AmBisome) for refractory patients only. Geographical, spatiotemporal and seasonal trends of VL were identified.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amro Ahmad
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Al-Quds University, Main Campus, P.O. Box 5100, Abu Dies, Jerusalem, Palestine.
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32
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Hofmann M, Hodžić A, Pouliou N, Joachim A. Vector-borne pathogens affecting shelter dogs in eastern Crete, Greece. Parasitol Res 2019; 118:1661-1666. [PMID: 30868293 PMCID: PMC6478633 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-019-06284-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2019] [Accepted: 03/04/2019] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
Abstract
Canine pathogens transmitted by blood-sucking arthropods are of significant importance for veterinary and, in some cases, human health. However, they are still underestimated and rarely investigated in many parts of the Mediterranean region, mostly due to financial reasons. Therefore, in the present paper, we investigated the occurrence of blood-associated pathogens affecting dogs in Crete, Greece. For this purpose, blood samples from 103 shelter dogs were screened for the pathogens by PCR and serological tests. Overall, samples from 43 dogs scored positive for at least one pathogen (41.8%). In particular, antibodies to Leishmania infantum were detected in 26 dogs (25.2%), and 15 and 11 animals were positive for Hepatozoon canis (14.6%) and Mycoplasma haemocanis (10.7%) by PCR, respectively. Co-infections were recorded in nine animals. Clinical signs indicative of infection (alterations of skin or coat or reduced body condition) were detected in 10 animals, four of which were infected with one pathogen, three with two pathogens. Based on the results obtained, dogs from Crete appear to be frequently exposed to several blood-borne pathogens, including agents of zoonotic concern. Given that some of the pathogens were reported for the first time in this area, results presented in our study should improve the awareness of the local veterinarians and of dog rescue organisations in order to reduce disease burden on stray and owned dogs and to control the spread of canine vector-borne diseases from Greece to non-endemic areas by travelling or exported infected dogs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mathias Hofmann
- Institute of Parasitology, Department of Pathobiology, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Veterinaerplatz 1, 1210 Vienna, Austria
| | - Adnan Hodžić
- Institute of Parasitology, Department of Pathobiology, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Veterinaerplatz 1, 1210 Vienna, Austria
| | - Niki Pouliou
- Animal Medical Center, Kýprou 61, 722 00 Ierapetra, Greece
| | - Anja Joachim
- Institute of Parasitology, Department of Pathobiology, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Veterinaerplatz 1, 1210 Vienna, Austria
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Velez R, Ballart C, Domenech E, Abras A, Fernández-Arévalo A, Gómez SA, Tebar S, Muñoz C, Cairó J, Gállego M. Seroprevalence of canine Leishmania infantum infection in the Mediterranean region and identification of risk factors: The example of North-Eastern and Pyrenean areas of Spain. Prev Vet Med 2018; 162:67-75. [PMID: 30621900 DOI: 10.1016/j.prevetmed.2018.10.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2018] [Revised: 10/20/2018] [Accepted: 10/22/2018] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
The Mediterranean basin is an endemic region for canine leishmaniosis (CanL), where it represents a major veterinary problem and raises human health concerns. However, the distribution of the disease is heterogeneous and not all countries and locations have been equally studied and characterized. This work describes the situation of CanL in Girona province (Catalonia, Spain), for which no data has been previously reported, and presents a relevant study to exemplify other areas with similar characteristics across the region. Four cross-sectional seroprevalence surveys were performed from 2012 to 2016 throughout the province, including 36 sampling stations in 26 localities and a total of 593 dogs. For each animal, individual and location variables were also collected. Additionally, each dog owner answered a questionnaire about their knowledge of CanL and preventive methods used. Blood samples were analysed by an in-house ELISA and a mixed logistic regression model was used to assess the relationship between pre-determined variables and dog seropositivity. A Spearman's correlation was used to assess the association between dog owners' perceived risk of CanL and Leishmania infantum seropositivity in dogs at a given location. The overall true seroprevalence estimated for Girona province was 19.5% (95%CI: 15.5-23.5), of which only 6.8% (10/146) were considered symptomatic. Age of the dog [OR = 1.21 (95%CI: 1.11-1.31); p < 0.001] and altitude [OR = 0.02 (95%CI: 0.001-0.19); p = 0.001] were identified as risk factors for the infection. The results obtained in this study are expected to aid in the implementation of directed control programmes in CanL endemic areas throughout Europe, as well as to provide suitable data for the design of better risk assessment maps of the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Velez
- ISGlobal, Hospital Clínic - Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain; Secció de Parasitologia, Departament de Biologia, Sanitat i Medi Ambient, Facultat de Farmàcia i Ciències de l'Alimentació, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.
| | - C Ballart
- ISGlobal, Hospital Clínic - Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain; Secció de Parasitologia, Departament de Biologia, Sanitat i Medi Ambient, Facultat de Farmàcia i Ciències de l'Alimentació, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.
| | - E Domenech
- Hospital Veterinari Canis, Girona, Spain.
| | - A Abras
- ISGlobal, Hospital Clínic - Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain; Secció de Parasitologia, Departament de Biologia, Sanitat i Medi Ambient, Facultat de Farmàcia i Ciències de l'Alimentació, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain; Laboratori d'Ictiologia Genètica, Departament de Biologia, Universitat de Girona, Girona, Spain.
| | - A Fernández-Arévalo
- ISGlobal, Hospital Clínic - Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain; Secció de Parasitologia, Departament de Biologia, Sanitat i Medi Ambient, Facultat de Farmàcia i Ciències de l'Alimentació, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain; Servei de Microbiologia, Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau, Barcelona, Spain.
| | - S A Gómez
- ISGlobal, Hospital Clínic - Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.
| | - S Tebar
- Secció de Parasitologia, Departament de Biologia, Sanitat i Medi Ambient, Facultat de Farmàcia i Ciències de l'Alimentació, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.
| | - C Muñoz
- Servei de Microbiologia, Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau, Barcelona, Spain; Departament de Genètica i Microbiologia, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Cerdanyola del Vallès, Spain.
| | - J Cairó
- Hospital Veterinari Canis, Girona, Spain.
| | - M Gállego
- ISGlobal, Hospital Clínic - Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain; Secció de Parasitologia, Departament de Biologia, Sanitat i Medi Ambient, Facultat de Farmàcia i Ciències de l'Alimentació, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.
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