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Deng ML, Heng ZJ, Li LJ, Yang JF, He JJ, Zou FC, Shu FF. Cryptosporidium spp. Infection and Genotype Identification in Pre-Weaned and Post-Weaned Calves in Yunnan Province, China. Animals (Basel) 2024; 14:1907. [PMID: 38998019 PMCID: PMC11240314 DOI: 10.3390/ani14131907] [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: 06/05/2024] [Revised: 06/24/2024] [Accepted: 06/25/2024] [Indexed: 07/14/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cryptosporidium is a globally distributed zoonotic protozoan parasite in humans and animals. Infection is widespread in dairy cattle, especially in calves, resulting in neonatal enteritis, production losses and high mortality. However, the occurrence of Cryptosporidium spp. in pre- and post-weaned calves in Yunnan Province remains unclear. METHODS We collected 498 fecal samples from Holstein calves on 10 different farms in four regions of Yunnan Province. Nested PCR and DNA sequencing were used to determine the infection, species and genotypes of Cryptosporidium spp. in these animals. RESULTS The overall occurrence of Cryptosporidium spp. in Holstein calves was 32.9% (164/498), and the prevalence in pre- and post-weaned calves was 33.5% (106/316) and 31.9% (58/182), respectively. Four Cryptosporidium species were identified in these animals, namely C. bovis (n = 119), C. parvum (n = 23), C. ryanae (n = 20) and C. andersoni (n = 2). Based on sequencing analysis of the 60 kDa glycoprotein gene of C. bovis, C. parvum and C. ryanae, six subtypes of C. bovis (XXVIe, XXVIb, XXVIf, XXVIa XXVIc and XXVId), two subtypes of C. parvum (IIdA19G1 and IIdA18G1) and four subtypes of C. ryanae (XXIf, XXId, XXIe and XXIg) were identified. CONCLUSIONS These results provide essential information to understand the infection rate, species diversity and genetic structure of Cryptosporidium spp. populations in Holstein pre-weaned and post-weaned calves in Yunnan Province. Further, the presence of IIdA18G1 and IIdA19G1 in C. parvum implies significant animal and public health concerns, which requires greater attention and more preventive measures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meng-Ling Deng
- Faculty of Animal Science and Technology, Yunnan Agricultural University, Kunming 650201, China
- Key Laboratory of Veterinary Public Health of Yunnan Province, College of Veterinary Medicine, Yunnan Agricultural University, Kunming 650201, China
| | - Zhao-Jun Heng
- Key Laboratory of Veterinary Public Health of Yunnan Province, College of Veterinary Medicine, Yunnan Agricultural University, Kunming 650201, China
| | - Liu-Jia Li
- College of Agriculture and Biological Science, Dali University, Dali 671003, China
| | - Jian-Fa Yang
- Faculty of Animal Science and Technology, Yunnan Agricultural University, Kunming 650201, China
- Key Laboratory of Veterinary Public Health of Yunnan Province, College of Veterinary Medicine, Yunnan Agricultural University, Kunming 650201, China
| | - Jun-Jun He
- Key Laboratory of Veterinary Public Health of Yunnan Province, College of Veterinary Medicine, Yunnan Agricultural University, Kunming 650201, China
| | - Feng-Cai Zou
- Faculty of Animal Science and Technology, Yunnan Agricultural University, Kunming 650201, China
- Key Laboratory of Veterinary Public Health of Yunnan Province, College of Veterinary Medicine, Yunnan Agricultural University, Kunming 650201, China
| | - Fan-Fan Shu
- Key Laboratory of Veterinary Public Health of Yunnan Province, College of Veterinary Medicine, Yunnan Agricultural University, Kunming 650201, China
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Hasapis KA, Charalambidou I, Schou C, O'Dowd Phanis C, Kazamia S, Kassinis N, Hadjisterkotis E, Karanis P. First Detection of Cryptosporidium parvum in the Endemic Cyprus Mouflon (Ovis gmelini ophion). Acta Parasitol 2024; 69:1035-1040. [PMID: 38062227 PMCID: PMC11001731 DOI: 10.1007/s11686-023-00747-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2023] [Accepted: 11/06/2023] [Indexed: 04/11/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE Cryptosporidium is an intestinal zoonotic protozoan parasite that infects domesticated and wild animals. There are no reports on the prevalence and molecular characterisation of Cryptosporidium in the endemic Cyprus mouflon. The mouflon is strictly protected by national and international legislation. Its main distribution is Paphos State Forest and surrounding areas, where it may share the same water sources as free-ranging domestic goats. Therefore, the present study aimed to determine the prevalence of Cryptosporidium spp. and genotypes in mouflon and free-ranging goats within the mouflon range. METHODS Faecal samples of 70 mouflons and 34 free-ranging goats were screened for Cryptosporidium by PCR amplification and sequencing. RESULTS Only one sample (1/70) belonging to a mouflon was PCR positive for Cryptosporidium. Based on sequencing of the 18S rRNA locus, this species was identified as Cryptosporidium parvum (C. parvum). No positive sample was detected in the free-ranging goats (0/34). CONCLUSION This is the first report on the molecular identification of this Cryptosporidium species in a Cyprus mouflon. The results indicate that the prevalence of Cryptosporidium in Cyprus mouflon is low.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kyriacos A Hasapis
- Department of Basic and Clinical Sciences, University of Nicosia Medical School, 21 Ilia Papakyriakou, 2414 Engomi, P.O. Box 24005, 1700, Nicosia, Cyprus
| | - Iris Charalambidou
- Department of Life Sciences, School of Life and Health Sciences, University of Nicosia, Nicosia, Cyprus
| | - Chad Schou
- Department of Basic and Clinical Sciences, University of Nicosia Medical School, 21 Ilia Papakyriakou, 2414 Engomi, P.O. Box 24005, 1700, Nicosia, Cyprus
| | - Catherine O'Dowd Phanis
- Department of Basic and Clinical Sciences, University of Nicosia Medical School, 21 Ilia Papakyriakou, 2414 Engomi, P.O. Box 24005, 1700, Nicosia, Cyprus
| | - Stefanie Kazamia
- Department of Basic and Clinical Sciences, University of Nicosia Medical School, 21 Ilia Papakyriakou, 2414 Engomi, P.O. Box 24005, 1700, Nicosia, Cyprus
| | | | - Eleftherios Hadjisterkotis
- Agricultural Research Institute, Ministry of Agriculture, Rural Development and Environment, Nicosia, Cyprus
| | - Panagiotis Karanis
- Department of Basic and Clinical Sciences, University of Nicosia Medical School, 21 Ilia Papakyriakou, 2414 Engomi, P.O. Box 24005, 1700, Nicosia, Cyprus.
- Medical Faculty and University Hospital, University of Cologne, 50923, Cologne, Germany.
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Khan SM, Witola WH. Past, current, and potential treatments for cryptosporidiosis in humans and farm animals: A comprehensive review. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2023; 13:1115522. [PMID: 36761902 PMCID: PMC9902888 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2023.1115522] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2022] [Accepted: 01/09/2023] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
The intracellular protozoan parasite of the genus Cryptosporidium is among the leading causes of waterborne diarrheal disease outbreaks throughout the world. The parasite is transmitted by ingestion of infective oocysts that are highly stable in the environment and resistant to almost all conventional disinfection methods and water treatments. Control of the parasite infection is exceedingly difficult due to the excretion of large numbers of oocysts in the feces of infected individuals that contaminate the environment and serve as a source of infection for susceptible hosts including humans and animals. Drug development against the parasite is challenging owing to its limited genetic tractability, absence of conventional drug targets, unique intracellular location within the host, and the paucity of robust cell culture platforms for continuous parasite propagation. Despite the high prevalence of the parasite, the only US Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved treatment of Cryptosporidium infections is nitazoxanide, which has shown moderate efficacy in immunocompetent patients. More importantly, no effective therapeutic drugs are available for treating severe, potentially life-threatening cryptosporidiosis in immunodeficient patients, young children, and neonatal livestock. Thus, safe, inexpensive, and efficacious drugs are urgently required to reduce the ever-increasing global cryptosporidiosis burden especially in low-resource countries. Several compounds have been tested for both in vitro and in vivo efficacy against the disease. However, to date, only a few experimental compounds have been subjected to clinical trials in natural hosts, and among those none have proven efficacious. This review provides an overview of the past and present anti-Cryptosporidium pharmacotherapy in humans and agricultural animals. Herein, we also highlight the progress made in the field over the last few years and discuss the different strategies employed for discovery and development of effective prospective treatments for cryptosporidiosis.
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Aboelsoued D, Abdel Megeed KN. Diagnosis and control of cryptosporidiosis in farm animals. J Parasit Dis 2022; 46:1133-1146. [PMID: 36457776 PMCID: PMC9606155 DOI: 10.1007/s12639-022-01513-2] [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: 04/15/2022] [Accepted: 06/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Cryptosporidium is a pathogenic protozoan parasite infecting the gastrointestinal epithelium of human and animal hosts. In farm animals, cryptosporidiosis causes significant economic losses including deaths in newborn animals, retarded growth, increased labor involved and high cost of drugs. The detection of Cryptosporidium oocysts in fecal samples is traditionally dependent on examination of stained slides by light microscope or by advanced microscopical tools such as: electron microscopy and phase contrast microscopy. Immunological diagnosis using either antibody or antigen detection could offer high sensitivity and specificity. Examples for these tests are Enzyme Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA), Immunochromatographic tests, Immunochromatographic lateral flow (ICLF), Immunofluorescence assays (IFA) and Flow cytometry coupled with cell sorting. Molecular methods could differentiate species and genotypes of Cryptosporidium and help in studying the epidemiological features of this parasite with rapid, simple and sensitive procedures. Nanotechnology-based platforms could improve the sensitivity and specificity of other detection methods like: ELISA, ICLF, IFA and polymerase chain reaction. As the available prophylactic and therapeutic drugs or natural products treatments are insufficient and no approved vaccines are available, the best approach to control this parasite is by following firm hygienic measures. Many vaccine attempts were performed using hyperimmune colostrum, live or attenuated vaccines, recombinant and Deoxyribonucleic acid vaccines. Also, Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats/Cas9 technology could help in Cryptosporidium genome editing to improve drug and vaccine discovery. Another approach that could be useful for assigning drug targets is metabolomics. Probiotics were also used successfully in the treatment of acute diarrhea and they proved a limiting effect on cryptosporidiosis in animal models. In addition, nanotherapy-based approaches could provide a good strategy for improving the potency of any type of drugs against Cryptosporidium and give good anti-cryptosporidial effects. In conclusion, accurate diagnosis using advanced techniques is the key to the control and prevention of cryptosporidiosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dina Aboelsoued
- Department of Parasitology and Animal Diseases, Veterinary Research Institute, National Research Centre, El Buhouth St., Dokki, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Kadria Nasr Abdel Megeed
- Department of Parasitology and Animal Diseases, Veterinary Research Institute, National Research Centre, El Buhouth St., Dokki, Cairo, Egypt
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Celi K, Guzmán L, Rey-Valeirón C. Apicomplexans in Goat: Prevalence of Neospora caninum, Toxoplasma gondii, Cryptosporidium spp., Eimeria spp. and Risk Factors in Farms from Ecuador. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:2224. [PMID: 36077944 PMCID: PMC9454992 DOI: 10.3390/ani12172224] [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: 06/15/2022] [Revised: 08/22/2022] [Accepted: 08/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Neospora caninum, Toxoplasma gondii, Cryptosporidium and Eimeria cause severe impacts on the productivity of goat herds. The objectives of the present study were to establish the prevalence of these apicomplexans in goat farms from Ecuador; to evaluate a rapid test for Cryptosporidium diagnosis and to identify the risk factors associated with the infections. A questionnaire was designed to obtain information from 24 goat farms from Zapotillo, Garza Real, Cazaderos, Limones and Paletillas parishes in Ecuador. Blood (n = 388) and feces (n = 391) samples were collected. Indirect ELISA and standard parasitological assays were carried out to evaluate the seroprevalence of N. caninum and T. gondii and to detect oocysts of Cryptosporidium and Eimeria. The overall prevalence values of N. caninum and T. gondii were 12.11% and 18.20%, Cryptosporidium spp. and Eimeria spp. oocysts were detected in 10.49% and 89.51% of the total samples. A low correlation value was found between the results obtained by Ziehl-Nielsen and the rapid test. The multinomial logistic regression analysis revealed that vitamin supplementation, age of diarrhea, frequency of deworming, pasture area, presence of artiodactyls, domestic fowl, administration of sulfas, age group, body condition, abortions, type of pastures and the presence of cattle were risk factors according to the parasite species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin Celi
- Departamento de Ciencias Biológicas y Agropecuarias, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Maestría en Biotecnología Agropecuaria, Universidad Técnica Particular de Loja, San Cayetano Alto s/n, Loja 1101608, Ecuador
| | - Lucía Guzmán
- Departamento de Ciencias Biológicas y Agropecuarias, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Universidad Técnica Particular de Loja, San Cayetano Alto s/n, Loja 1101608, Ecuador
| | - Catalina Rey-Valeirón
- Laboratorio de Investigación en Parasitología Veterinaria, Universidad Nacional Experimental Francisco de Miranda, Coro 4101, Venezuela
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Oliveira JSD, Martins FDC, Ladeia WA, Cortela IDB, Valadares MF, Matos AMRND, Caldart ET, Ayres H, Navarro IT, Freire RL. Identification, molecular characterization and factors associated with occurrences of Cryptosporidium spp. in calves on dairy farms in Brazil. REVISTA BRASILEIRA DE PARASITOLOGIA VETERINARIA = BRAZILIAN JOURNAL OF VETERINARY PARASITOLOGY : ORGAO OFICIAL DO COLEGIO BRASILEIRO DE PARASITOLOGIA VETERINARIA 2021; 30:e009621. [PMID: 34910017 DOI: 10.1590/s1984-29612021094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2021] [Accepted: 11/16/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Cattle are an important source of zoonotic species of Cryptosporidium for humans. The aim of this study was to investigate the presence of Cryptosporidium, identify the species and determine the risk factors relating to environment, animals and management among dairy calves in eight Brazilian states. A total of 408 fecal samples from calves aged 1-60 days were analyzed. An epidemiological questionnaire was completed. Sample screening was performed using Ziehl-Neelsen technique and the positive samples were subjected to nested PCR. Cryptosporidium species were identified by means of the PCR-RFLP technique, using SSPI, ASEI and MBOII enzymes. The Ziehl-Neelsen technique showed that 89.7% (35/39) of the farms and 52.9% (216/408) of the samples were positive. Through nested PCR, these protozoa were detected in 54.6% of the samples. The 56 samples subjected to PCR-RFLP presented Cryptosporidium parvum. There was higher prevalence of the parasite in animals aged 7 to 28 days (62.6%). Diarrhea, ages between seven and 28 days and a spring water source were factors associated with the risk of infection. The calf hutch-type management system was associated with reduced infection. These findings demonstrate the high level of Cryptosporidium spp. circulation in cattle herds and the predominance of the species C. parvum.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juliana Silva de Oliveira
- Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva, Universidade Estadual de Londrina - UEL, Londrina, PR, Brasil
| | | | - Winni Alves Ladeia
- Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva, Universidade Estadual de Londrina - UEL, Londrina, PR, Brasil
| | - Isadora de Britto Cortela
- Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva, Universidade Estadual de Londrina - UEL, Londrina, PR, Brasil
| | - Manuela Ferraz Valadares
- Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva, Universidade Estadual de Londrina - UEL, Londrina, PR, Brasil
| | | | - Eloiza Teles Caldart
- Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva, Universidade Estadual de Londrina - UEL, Londrina, PR, Brasil
| | | | - Italmar Teodorico Navarro
- Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva, Universidade Estadual de Londrina - UEL, Londrina, PR, Brasil
| | - Roberta Lemos Freire
- Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva, Universidade Estadual de Londrina - UEL, Londrina, PR, Brasil
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Ryan U, Zahedi A, Feng Y, Xiao L. An Update on Zoonotic Cryptosporidium Species and Genotypes in Humans. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:3307. [PMID: 34828043 PMCID: PMC8614385 DOI: 10.3390/ani11113307] [Citation(s) in RCA: 75] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2021] [Revised: 11/12/2021] [Accepted: 11/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The enteric parasite, Cryptosporidium is a major cause of diarrhoeal illness in humans and animals worldwide. No effective therapeutics or vaccines are available and therefore control is dependent on understanding transmission dynamics. The development of molecular detection and typing tools has resulted in the identification of a large number of cryptic species and genotypes and facilitated our understanding of their potential for zoonotic transmission. Of the 44 recognised Cryptosporidium species and >120 genotypes, 19 species, and four genotypes have been reported in humans with C. hominis, C. parvum, C. meleagridis, C. canis and C. felis being the most prevalent. The development of typing tools that are still lacking some zoonotic species and genotypes and more extensive molecular epidemiological studies in countries where the potential for transmission is highest are required to further our understanding of this important zoonotic pathogen. Similarly, whole-genome sequencing (WGS) and amplicon next-generation sequencing (NGS) are important for more accurately tracking transmission and understanding the mechanisms behind host specificity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Una Ryan
- Harry Butler Institute, Murdoch University, Perth, WA 6152, Australia;
| | - Alireza Zahedi
- Harry Butler Institute, Murdoch University, Perth, WA 6152, Australia;
| | - Yaoyu Feng
- Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Diseases, College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China; (Y.F.); (L.X.)
- Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Lihua Xiao
- Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Diseases, College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China; (Y.F.); (L.X.)
- Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Guangzhou 510642, China
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Yang XY, Gong QL, Zhao B, Cai YN, Zhao Q. Prevalence of Cryptosporidium Infection in Sheep and Goat Flocks in China During 2010-2019: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Vector Borne Zoonotic Dis 2021; 21:692-706. [PMID: 34491122 DOI: 10.1089/vbz.2020.2713] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Cryptosporidiosis is an extensively contagious zoonotic waterborne disease caused by the genus Cryptosporidium and poses to be a danger to public health. Sheep and goats are an intermediate host of Cryptosporidium. Consequently, a first systematic review and meta-analysis are performed to assess the burden of the infection relative to the Cryptosporidium in sheep and goat flocks in China. Five databases were searched for relevant literature in accordance with the inclusion criteria until January 30, 2020. At last, a total of 33 qualified documents were included. We calculate the overall prevalence of Cryptosporidium (4.9%) in sheep and goats in China with the random-effects model. The prevalence after 2014 (4.6%) was higher than that before or in 2014 (2.8%). The pooled prevalence of Cryptosporidium in sheep and goats from Northern China (12.3%) was significantly higher (p < 0.05) than other regions. The infection rate of modified acid-fast staining (14.3%) was the highest among the detection methods. In age subgroups, the prevalence of Cryptosporidium in sheep and goats in 3 months or before was the highest (20.8%). Goats had a higher infection rate (5.9%) in species. The prevalence of large-scale farms (2.8%) was lower than free-ranging farms (4.4%). The medium quality level (6.4%) was the highest. Besides, geographical factors (such as latitude, longitude, height, precipitation, humidity, mean temperature, etc.) were further analyzed as potential risk factors of Cryptosporidium in sheep and goats. This meta-analysis indicates that the Cryptosporidium infection of Chinese sheep and goat flocks is general. Thus, it is necessary to further monitor the prevalence of Cryptosporidium, and the reasonable preventive strategy should be formulated on the basis of the geographical factors of different regions and the differences in sheep and goats' growth stages to reduce the prevalence of Cryptosporidium in sheep and goats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xue-Yao Yang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun, Jilin Province, P.R. China.,College of Chinese Medicine Materials, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun, Jilin Province, P.R. China
| | - Qing-Long Gong
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun, Jilin Province, P.R. China
| | - Bo Zhao
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun, Jilin Province, P.R. China
| | - Ya-Nan Cai
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun, Jilin Province, P.R. China
| | - Quan Zhao
- College of Life Science, Changchun Sci-Tech University, Shuangyang, Jilin Province, P.R. China
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Small ruminants and zoonotic cryptosporidiosis. Parasitol Res 2021; 120:4189-4198. [PMID: 33712929 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-021-07116-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2021] [Accepted: 03/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Sheep and goats are commonly infected with three Cryptosporidium species, including Cryptosporidium parvum, Cryptosporidium ubiquitum, and Cryptosporidium xiaoi, which differ from each in prevalence, geographic distribution, and public health importance. While C. parvum appears to be a dominant species in small ruminants in European countries, its occurrence in most African, Asian, and American countries appear to be limited. As a result, zoonotic infections due to contact with lambs and goat kids are common in European countries, leading to frequent reports of outbreaks of cryptosporidiosis on petting farms. In contrast, C. xiaoi is the dominant species elsewhere, and mostly does not infect humans. While C. ubiquitum is another zoonotic species, it occurs in sheep and goats at much lower frequency. Host adaptation appears to be present in both C. parvum and C. ubiquitum, consisting of several subtype families with different host preference. The host-adapted nature of C. parvum and C. ubiquitum has allowed the use of subtyping tools in tracking infection sources. This has led to the identification of geographic differences in the importance of small ruminants in epidemiology of human cryptosporidiosis. These tools have also been used effectively in linking zoonotic transmission of C. parvum between outbreak cases and the suspected animals. Further studies should be directly elucidating the reasons for differences in the distribution and public health importance of major Cryptosporidium species in sheep and goats.
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Utaaker KS, Chaudhary S, Kifleyohannes T, Robertson LJ. Global Goat! Is the Expanding Goat Population an Important Reservoir of Cryptosporidium? Front Vet Sci 2021; 8:648500. [PMID: 33748221 PMCID: PMC7977713 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2021.648500] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2020] [Accepted: 02/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Goats are a primary or additional income source for many families in resource-poor areas. Although often considered inferior to other livestock, the resilience of goats and their ability to thrive in a range of environments means that that they are of particular value. Furthermore, goats emit less methane than other livestock species. In these same areas, it is well-documented that cryptosporidiosis has a substantial impact on infant morbidity and mortality, as well as reducing child growth and development. As Cryptosporidium also causes diarrheal disease in goats, the question arises whether goats may represent a reservoir of infection to humans. Epidemiological studies regarding the potential for transmission of Cryptosporidium between goats and humans have largely concluded that Cryptosporidium species infecting goats are not zoonotic. However, these studies are mostly from developed countries, where goat husbandry is smaller, management routines differ greatly from those of developing countries, contact between goats and their owners is more limited, and cryptosporidiosis has less impact on human health. In this article, background information on goat husbandry in different countries is provided, along with information on Cryptosporidium prevalence among goats, at both the species and sub-species levels, and the potential for zoonotic transmission. The intention is to indicate data gaps that should be filled and to increase awareness of the role of goats as providers for low-income families, often living in areas where cryptosporidiosis is endemic and where appropriate baseline interventions could have a positive impact, regardless of species of goat or parasite.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Suman Chaudhary
- Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, United States
| | - Tsegabirhan Kifleyohannes
- Parasitology, Department of Paraclinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Norwegian University of Life Sciences, Oslo, Norway.,Department of Veterinary Basic and Diagnostic Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Mekelle University, Mekelle, Ethiopia
| | - Lucy Jane Robertson
- Parasitology, Department of Paraclinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Norwegian University of Life Sciences, Oslo, Norway
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Cryptosporidium Species and C. parvum Subtypes in Farmed Bamboo Rats. Pathogens 2020; 9:pathogens9121018. [PMID: 33276616 PMCID: PMC7761605 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens9121018] [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: 11/06/2020] [Revised: 11/29/2020] [Accepted: 12/01/2020] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Bamboo rats (Rhizomys sinensis) are widely farmed in Guangdong, China, but the distribution and public health potential of Cryptosporidium spp. in them are unclear. In this study, 724 fecal specimens were collected from bamboo rats in Guangdong Province and analyzed for Cryptosporidium spp. using PCR and sequence analyses of the small subunit rRNA gene. The overall detection rate of Cryptosporidium spp. was 12.2% (88/724). By age, the detection rate in animals under 2 months (23.2% or 13/56) was significantly higher than in animals over 2 months (11.2% or 75/668; χ2 = 6.95, df = 1, p = 0.0084). By reproduction status, the detection rate of Cryptosporidium spp. in nursing animals (23.1% or 27/117) was significantly higher than in other reproduction statuses (6.8% or 4/59; χ2 = 7.18, df = 1, p = 0.0074). Five Cryptosporidium species and genotypes were detected, including Cryptosporidium bamboo rat genotype I (n = 49), C. parvum (n = 31), Cryptosporidium bamboo rat genotype III (n = 5), C. occultus (n = 2), and C. muris (n = 1). The average numbers of oocysts per gram of feces for these Cryptosporidium spp. were 14,074, 494,636, 9239, 394, and 323, respectively. The genetic uniqueness of bamboo rat genotypes I and III was confirmed by sequence analyses of the 70 kDa heat shock protein and actin genes. Subtyping C. parvum by sequence analysis of the 60 kDa glycoprotein gene identified the presence of IIoA15G1 (n = 20) and IIpA6 (n = 2) subtypes. The results of this study indicated that Cryptosporidium spp. are common in bamboo rats in Guangdong, and some of the Cryptosporidium spp. in these animals are known human pathogens.
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Zahedi A, Ryan U, Rawlings V, Greay T, Hancock S, Bruce M, Jacobson C. Cryptosporidium and Giardia in dam water on sheep farms – An important source of transmission? Vet Parasitol 2020. [DOI: 10.1108/01435129610106083] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
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Cryptosporidium and Giardia in dam water on sheep farms - An important source of transmission? Vet Parasitol 2020; 288:109281. [PMID: 33142151 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2020.109281] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2020] [Revised: 10/21/2020] [Accepted: 10/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Cryptosporidium and Giardia infections can negatively impact livestock health and reduce productivity, and some species and genotypes infecting livestock have zoonotic potential. Infection occurs via the faecal-oral route. Waterborne infections are a recognised source of infection for humans, but the role of livestock drinking water as a source of infection in livestock has not been described. This study aimed to determine whether contaminated drinking water supplies, such as farm dams, are a likely transmission source for Cryptosporidium and Giardia infections for extensively managed sheep. Dam water samples (n = 47) were collected during autumn, winter and spring from 12 farm dams located on six different farms in south west Western Australia, and faecal samples (n = 349) were collected from sheep with access to these dams. All samples were initially screened for Cryptosporidium spp. at the 18S locus and Giardia spp. at the gdh gene using qPCR, and oocyst numbers were determined directly from the qPCR data using DNA standards calibrated by droplet digital PCR. Cryptosporidium-positive sheep faecal samples were typed and subtyped by sequence analysis of 18S and gp60 loci, respectively. Giardia-specific PCR and Sanger sequencing targeting tpi and gdh loci were performed on Giardia- positive sheep faecal samples to characterise Giardia duodenalis assemblages. To identify Cryptosporidium and Giardia spp. in dam water samples, next-generation sequencing analysis of 18S and gdh amplicons were performed, respectively. Two species of Cryptosporidium (Cryptosporidium xiaoi and Cryptospordium ubiquitum (subtype family XIIa)) were detected in 38/345 sheep faecal samples, and in water from 9/12 farm dams during the study period, with C. xiaoi the species most frequently detected in both faeces and dam water overall. Giardia duodenalis assemblages AI, AII and E were detected in 36/348 faecal samples and water from 10/12 farm dams. For dam water samples where oo/cysts were detected by qPCR, Cryptosporidium oocyst concentration ranged from 518-2429 oocysts/L (n = 14), and Giardia cyst concentration ranged from 102 to 1077 cysts/L (n = 17). Cryptosporidium and Giardia with zoonotic potential were detected in farm dam water, including C. ubiquitum, C. hominis, C. parvum, C. cuniculus, C. xiaoi, and G. duodenalis assemblages A, B and E. The findings suggest that dam water can be contaminated with Cryptosporidium species and G. duodenalis assemblages that may infect sheep and with zoonotic potential, and farm dam water may represent one source of transmission for infections.
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Zahedi A, Ryan U. Cryptosporidium – An update with an emphasis on foodborne and waterborne transmission. Res Vet Sci 2020; 132:500-512. [DOI: 10.1016/j.rvsc.2020.08.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2020] [Revised: 07/24/2020] [Accepted: 08/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
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Abstract
Cryptosporidium and Giardia are ubiquitous protozoan parasites that infect a broad range of vertebrate hosts, including domestic and wild animals as well as humans. Both parasites are of medical and veterinary importance. Infections with Cryptosporidium and Giardia in ruminants are associated with diarrhea outbreaks, mainly in young animals. Ruminants are potential sources of infection for humans because some species of Cryptosporidium and assemblages of Giardia duodenalis have been isolated from both ruminants and humans. Knowledge of these parasites has greatly expanded in the last 2 decades from simple microscopic observations of organisms to the knowledge acquired from molecular tools.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monica Santin
- Environmental Microbial and Food Safety Laboratory, Beltsville Agricultural Research Center, Agricultural Research Service, US Department of Agriculture, BARC-East, Building 173, 10300 Baltimore Avenue, Beltsville, MD 20705, USA.
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Hatam-Nahavandi K, Ahmadpour E, Carmena D, Spotin A, Bangoura B, Xiao L. Cryptosporidium infections in terrestrial ungulates with focus on livestock: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Parasit Vectors 2019; 12:453. [PMID: 31521186 PMCID: PMC6744657 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-019-3704-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2019] [Accepted: 09/05/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Cryptosporidium spp. are causative agents of gastrointestinal diseases in a wide variety of vertebrate hosts. Mortality resulting from the disease is low in livestock, although severe cryptosporidiosis has been associated with fatality in young animals. Methods The goal of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to review the prevalence and molecular data on Cryptosporidium infections in selected terrestrial domestic and wild ungulates of the families Bovidae (bison, buffalo, cattle, goat, impala, mouflon sheep, sheep, yak), Cervidae (red deer, roe deer, white-tailed deer), Camelidae (alpaca, camel), Suidae (boar, pig), Giraffidae (giraffes) and Equidae (horses). Data collection was carried out using PubMed, Scopus, Science Direct and Cochran databases, with 429 papers being included in this systematic analysis. Results The results show that overall 18.9% of ungulates from the investigated species were infected with Cryptosporidium spp. Considering livestock species (cattle, sheep, goats, pigs, horses and buffaloes), analysis revealed higher Cryptosporidium infection prevalence in ungulates of the Cetartiodactyla than in those of the Perissodactyla, with cattle (29%) being the most commonly infected farm animal. Conclusions Overall, the investigated domestic ungulates are considered potential sources of Cryptosporidium contamination in the environment. Control measures should be developed to reduce the occurrence of Cryptosporidium infection in these animals. Furthermore, literature on wild populations of the named ungulate species revealed a widespread presence and potential reservoir function of wildlife.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ehsan Ahmadpour
- Infectious and Tropical Diseases Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.
| | - David Carmena
- Parasitology Reference and Research Laboratory, National Centre for Microbiology, Carlos III Health Institute, Ctra Majadahonda-Pozuelo Km 2, 28220, Majadahonda, Madrid, Spain
| | - Adel Spotin
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.,Drug Applied Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Berit Bangoura
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, College of Agriculture and Natural Resources, University of Wyoming, Laramie, WY, USA
| | - Lihua Xiao
- College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China.
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Abdullah D, Ola-Fadunsin S, Ruviniyia K, Gimba F, Chandrawathani P, Lim Y, Jesse F, Sharma R. Molecular detection and epidemiological risk factors associated with Cryptosporidium infection among cattle in Peninsular Malaysia. Food Waterborne Parasitol 2019; 14:e00035. [PMID: 32095605 PMCID: PMC7033977 DOI: 10.1016/j.fawpar.2019.e00035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2018] [Revised: 01/09/2019] [Accepted: 01/24/2019] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Enteric protozoa infection among cattle may pose a threat to productivity and survival leading to negative impacts on the livestock industry. A number of these pathogens are also known to be zoonotic and are of public health concern. Despite the importance of these enteric protozoa to both animal and human health, there remains a paucity of published information on the epidemiological risk factors that may be associated with bovine cryptosporidiosis in Southeast Asia. The present study was undertaken to determine the molecular prevalence and associated risk factors for Cryptosporidium infection among beef and dairy cattle in Peninsular Malaysia. Faecal samples were collected from 824 cattle in 39 farms (526 beef and 298 dairy) situated in 33 locations throughout the country, and subjected to PCR detection for Cryptosporidium using primers targeting the 18S SSUrRNA gene. Epidemiological variables including host, environment and management factors were subjected to univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses to determine the potential risk factors for infection. The prevalence of Cryptosporidium among the cattle was 12.5%, with significant difference in the infection rate among the various breeds. There was no significant effect of gender, and both the beef and dairy cattle were at similar odds for infection. The younger cattle had a significantly higher infection rate compared to the older animals. Multivariate analysis revealed that deworming practice, distance to human settlement, geographical location (zone) and farm management system were significant risk factors associated with Cryptosporidium infection. The cattle that were reared on farms located in the northeast of the country, closest (≤200 m) to human settlements, reared extensively, and dewormed every four months were at highest risk of infection. The present study constitutes the first attempt to analyze the multivariable epidemiological risk factors involved in bovine cryptosporidiosis in Malaysia and in Southeast Asia. It is envisaged that the data obtained will facilitate better control and prevention measures for Cryptosporidium infection among cattle in the region. Due to the potential zoonotic nature of the infection, serious steps should be instituted for animal treatment and biohazard waste management on local cattle farms.
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Affiliation(s)
- D.A. Abdullah
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400 UPM Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia
- Department of Animal Production Techniques, Northern Technical University, Mosul, Iraq
| | - S.D. Ola-Fadunsin
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400 UPM Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - K. Ruviniyia
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400 UPM Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - F.I. Gimba
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400 UPM Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - P. Chandrawathani
- Department of Veterinary Services, Ministry of Agriculture and Agro-Based Industry, Wisma Tani, Block Podium, Lot 4G1, Presint 4, 62630 Putrajaya, Malaysia
| | - Y.A.L. Lim
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, 50603 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - F.F.A. Jesse
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400 UPM Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - R.S.K. Sharma
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400 UPM Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia
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