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Sandoval-Rodríguez A, Marcone D, Alegría-Morán R, Larraechea M, Yévenes K, Fredes F, Briceño C. Cryptosporidium spp. and Giardia spp. in Free-Ranging Introduced Monk Parakeets from Santiago, Chile. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:ani11030801. [PMID: 33809350 PMCID: PMC7999449 DOI: 10.3390/ani11030801] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2021] [Revised: 03/05/2021] [Accepted: 03/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Monk Parakeets are medium-sized parrots that were internationally traded as pets and that as a byproduct have become invasive species in 19 countries. This is the case of Chile, where Monk Parakeets have thrived in the city of Santiago. Cryptosporidium spp. and Giardia spp. are parasites that can affect the digestive system of a wide variety of animals, including humans and birds. This study sought to determine the occurrence of these parasites within Monk Parakeets from the city of Santiago. To do this, 207 fecal samples from Monk Parakeet nestlings that were captured during the summer seasons of 2017 and 2018 were analyzed. Environmental data related to the trees in which the nestlings were captured was studied in order to the determine the existence of areas more prone to have infected parakeets and whether certain environmental variables influence the presence or absence of these parasites in Monk Parakeets. In total, 33 samples were positive to the presence of one or both parasites. Of the 33, 10 nestlings (30%) were infected with Cryptosporidium spp. and 25 (76%) with Giardia spp. Two nestlings were infected with both parasites (6%). Environmental analyses revealed that pruned trees might constitute a protective factor against infection with these parasites. These findings emphasize Monk Parakeet’s potential role as a disease disseminator, especially in urban environments. Abstract Monk Parakeets (Myiopsitta monachus) are medium-sized parrots that due to international pet trade currently exist as invasive species in 19 countries globally. Such is the case of Chile, where Monk Parakeets have thrived in the city of Santiago. Cryptosporidium spp. and Giardia spp. are worldwide distributed gastrointestinal parasites whose potential hosts include birds and humans. The present study sought to determine the presence of these pathogens in Monk Parakeets from Santiago. During the austral summers of 2017 and 2018, 207 Monk Parakeet nestlings were captured, and fecal samples were studied via microscopical analyses. Environmental data related to the trees in which the nestlings were captured were analyzed to establish the existence of infection clusters. Associations between spatial clusters, environmental variables, and the presence or absence of these pathogens were explored. In total, 33 samples were positive to the presence of one or both protozoa. Of the 33, Cryptosporidium spp. oocysts were detected in 10 nestlings (30%) while Giardia spp. cysts were detected in 25 (76%). Two nestlings presented poly-parasitism (6%). Statistical analyses established pruned trees as a potential protective factor against infection with these parasites. The present study corresponds to the second report of Cryptosporidium spp. in Monk Parakeets in Chile and the first worldwide report of Giardia spp. in these birds, emphasizing Monk Parakeet’s potential role as a reservoir and pathogen disseminator, especially in urban environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alejandra Sandoval-Rodríguez
- Programa de Doctorado en Ciencias Silvoagropecuarias y Veterinarias, Campus Sur Universidad de Chile, Santa Rosa 11315, La Pintana, Santiago CP 8820808, Chile;
- Animal Preventive Medicine Department, Faculty of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, University of Chile, Santiago CP 8820808, Chile; (D.M.); or (R.A.-M.); (M.L.); (K.Y.); (F.F.)
| | - Daniela Marcone
- Animal Preventive Medicine Department, Faculty of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, University of Chile, Santiago CP 8820808, Chile; (D.M.); or (R.A.-M.); (M.L.); (K.Y.); (F.F.)
| | - Raúl Alegría-Morán
- Animal Preventive Medicine Department, Faculty of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, University of Chile, Santiago CP 8820808, Chile; (D.M.); or (R.A.-M.); (M.L.); (K.Y.); (F.F.)
- Faculty of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, Pedro de Valdivia University, Santiago CP 8370007, Chile
| | - Matilde Larraechea
- Animal Preventive Medicine Department, Faculty of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, University of Chile, Santiago CP 8820808, Chile; (D.M.); or (R.A.-M.); (M.L.); (K.Y.); (F.F.)
| | - Karina Yévenes
- Animal Preventive Medicine Department, Faculty of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, University of Chile, Santiago CP 8820808, Chile; (D.M.); or (R.A.-M.); (M.L.); (K.Y.); (F.F.)
| | - Fernando Fredes
- Animal Preventive Medicine Department, Faculty of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, University of Chile, Santiago CP 8820808, Chile; (D.M.); or (R.A.-M.); (M.L.); (K.Y.); (F.F.)
| | - Cristóbal Briceño
- Animal Preventive Medicine Department, Faculty of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, University of Chile, Santiago CP 8820808, Chile; (D.M.); or (R.A.-M.); (M.L.); (K.Y.); (F.F.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +56-2-29785665
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Reuschel M, Pantchev N, Vrhovec MG, Jung A, Gerhauser I, Sannella AR, Cacciò SM, Legler M. Occurrence and Molecular Typing of Giardia psittaci in Parakeets in Germany-A Case Study. Avian Dis 2020; 64:228-233. [PMID: 32550625 DOI: 10.1637/0005-2086-64.2.228] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2019] [Accepted: 02/12/2020] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
A grey-hooded parakeet (Psilopsiagon aymara) and two budgerigars (Melopsittacus undulatus) from different owners presented with decreased activity, vomitus, and diarrhea. A microscopic examination of feces showed trophozoites of the protozoan flagellate Giardia. A commercial immunochromatographic dipstick test for Giardia sp. antigens confirmed the infection. These findings were assured by PCR of the small subunit ribosomal RNA (SSU rRNA) gene and coproantigen ELISA. Sequencing of PCR products of the SSU rRNA (292 bp) and β-giardin genes (511 bp) identified Giardia psittaci as the species involved. Therefore, our results show that a GSA 65-based coproantigen ELISA, which was established for diagnosis of Giardia duodenalis is applicable for the detection of G. psittaci. A treatment with ronidazole was started. Additionally, fecal examination and dissection of the dead birds revealed coinfection with the fungal pathogen Macrorhabdus ornithogaster. One budgerigar survived and repeatedly tested negative after treatment with ronidazole. The described cases indicate that a single infection with G. psittaci has a good prognosis, whereas the prognosis is poor when coinfections occur, especially with M. ornithogaster.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Reuschel
- Clinic for Small Mammals, Reptiles, and Birds, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Bünteweg 9, 30559 Hannover, Germany,
| | - N Pantchev
- IDEXX Laboratories, Mörikestraße 28/3, 71636 Ludwigsburg, Germany
| | | | - A Jung
- Clinic for Poultry, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Bünteweg 17, 30559 Hannover, Germany
| | - I Gerhauser
- Department of Pathology, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Bünteweg 17, 30559 Hannover, Germany
| | - A R Sannella
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Instituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - S M Cacciò
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Instituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - M Legler
- Clinic for Small Mammals, Reptiles, and Birds, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Bünteweg 9, 30559 Hannover, Germany
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Buret AG. Acceptance of the 2019 Stoll-Stunkard Memorial Lectureship Award: The Study of Host-Parasite Interactions to Better Understand Fundamental Host Physiology: The Model of Giardiasis. J Parasitol 2020. [DOI: 10.1645/19-134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- André G. Buret
- Department of Biological Sciences, Host-Parasite Interactions Program, Inflammation Research Network, University of Calgary, 2500 University Drive N.W., Calgary (Alberta), T2N 1N4, Canada
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López-Velázquez G, Fernández-Lainez C, de la Mora-de la Mora JI, Caudillo de la Portilla D, Reynoso-Robles R, González-Maciel A, Ridaura C, García-Torres I, Gutiérrez-Castrellón P, Olivos-García A, Flores-López LA, Enríquez-Flores S. On the molecular and cellular effects of omeprazole to further support its effectiveness as an antigiardial drug. Sci Rep 2019; 9:8922. [PMID: 31222100 PMCID: PMC6586891 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-45529-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2019] [Accepted: 06/05/2019] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Research on Giardia lamblia has accumulated large information about its molecular cell biology and infection biology. However, giardiasis is still one of the commonest parasitic diarrheal diseases affecting humans. Additionally, an alarming increase in cases refractory to conventional treatment has been reported in low prevalence settings. Consequently, efforts directed toward supporting the efficient use of alternative drugs, and the study of their molecular targets appears promising. Repurposing of proton pump inhibitors is effective in vitro against the parasite and the toxic activity is associated with the inhibition of the G. lamblia triosephosphate isomerase (GlTIM) via the formation of covalent adducts with cysteine residue at position 222. Herein, we evaluate the effectiveness of omeprazole in vitro and in situ on GlTIM mutants lacking the most superficial cysteines. We studied the influence on the glycolysis of Giardia trophozoites treated with omeprazole and characterized, for the first time, the morphological effect caused by this drug on the parasite. Our results support the effectiveness of omeprazole against GlTIM despite of the possibility to mutate the druggable amino acid targets as an adaptive response. Also, we further characterized the effect of omeprazole on trophozoites and discuss the possible mechanism involved in its antigiardial effect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriel López-Velázquez
- Grupo de Investigación en Biomoléculas y Salud Infantil, Laboratorio de EIMyT, Instituto Nacional de Pediatría, Ciudad de México, 04530, Mexico.
| | - Cynthia Fernández-Lainez
- Laboratorio de Errores Innatos del Metabolismo y Tamiz, Instituto Nacional de Pediatría, Ciudad de México, 04530, Mexico
| | - José Ignacio de la Mora-de la Mora
- Grupo de Investigación en Biomoléculas y Salud Infantil, Laboratorio de EIMyT, Instituto Nacional de Pediatría, Ciudad de México, 04530, Mexico
| | - Daniela Caudillo de la Portilla
- Grupo de Investigación en Biomoléculas y Salud Infantil, Laboratorio de EIMyT, Instituto Nacional de Pediatría, Ciudad de México, 04530, Mexico
| | - Rafael Reynoso-Robles
- Laboratorio de Morfología Celular y Tisular, Instituto Nacional de Pediatría, Ciudad de México, 04530, Mexico
| | - Angélica González-Maciel
- Laboratorio de Morfología Celular y Tisular, Instituto Nacional de Pediatría, Ciudad de México, 04530, Mexico
| | - Cecilia Ridaura
- Departamento de Patología, Instituto Nacional de Pediatría, Ciudad de México, 04530, Mexico
| | - Itzhel García-Torres
- Grupo de Investigación en Biomoléculas y Salud Infantil, Laboratorio de EIMyT, Instituto Nacional de Pediatría, Ciudad de México, 04530, Mexico
| | | | - Alfonso Olivos-García
- Unidad de Investigación en Medicina Experimental, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México y Hospital General, Ciudad de México, 04510, Mexico
| | - Luis Antonio Flores-López
- Grupo de Investigación en Biomoléculas y Salud Infantil, Laboratorio de EIMyT, Instituto Nacional de Pediatría, Ciudad de México, 04530, Mexico.,CONACYT-Instituto Nacional de Pediatría, Secretaría de Salud, Ciudad de México, 04530, Mexico
| | - Sergio Enríquez-Flores
- Grupo de Investigación en Biomoléculas y Salud Infantil, Laboratorio de EIMyT, Instituto Nacional de Pediatría, Ciudad de México, 04530, Mexico.
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Cacciò SM, Lalle M, Svärd SG. Host specificity in the Giardia duodenalis species complex. INFECTION GENETICS AND EVOLUTION 2017; 66:335-345. [PMID: 29225147 DOI: 10.1016/j.meegid.2017.12.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 122] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2017] [Revised: 12/01/2017] [Accepted: 12/02/2017] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Giardia duodenalis is a unicellular flagellated parasite that infects the gastrointestinal tract of a wide range of mammalian species, including humans. Investigations of protein and DNA polymorphisms revealed that G. duodenalis should be considered as a species complex, whose members, despite being morphologically indistinguishable, can be classified into eight groups, or Assemblages, separated by large genetic distances. Assemblages display various degree of host specificity, with Assemblages A and B occurring in humans and many other hosts, Assemblage C and D in canids, Assemblage E in hoofed animals, Assemblage F in cats, Assemblage G in rodents, and Assemblage H in pinnipeds. The factors determining host specificity are only partially understood, and clearly involve both the host and the parasite. Here, we review the results of in vitro and in vivo experiments, and clinical observations to highlight relevant biological and genetic differences between Assemblages, with a focus on human infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simone M Cacciò
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy.
| | - Marco Lalle
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - Staffan G Svärd
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
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Emery SJ, Lacey E, Haynes PA. Quantitative proteomics in Giardia duodenalis —Achievements and challenges. Mol Biochem Parasitol 2016; 208:96-112. [DOI: 10.1016/j.molbiopara.2016.07.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2016] [Revised: 07/13/2016] [Accepted: 07/16/2016] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
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The generation gap: Proteome changes and strain variation during encystation in Giardia duodenalis. Mol Biochem Parasitol 2015; 201:47-56. [DOI: 10.1016/j.molbiopara.2015.05.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2015] [Revised: 05/26/2015] [Accepted: 05/28/2015] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
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Emery SJ, van Sluyter S, Haynes PA. Proteomic analysis inGiardia duodenalisyields insights into strain virulence and antigenic variation. Proteomics 2014; 14:2523-34. [DOI: 10.1002/pmic.201400144] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2014] [Revised: 08/19/2014] [Accepted: 09/25/2014] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Samantha J. Emery
- Department of Chemistry and Biomolecular Sciences; Macquarie University; North Ryde New South Wales Australia
| | - Steve van Sluyter
- Department of Chemistry and Biomolecular Sciences; Macquarie University; North Ryde New South Wales Australia
| | - Paul A. Haynes
- Department of Chemistry and Biomolecular Sciences; Macquarie University; North Ryde New South Wales Australia
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Lenaghan SC, Chen J, Zhang M. Modeling and analysis of propulsion in the multiflagellated micoorganism Giardia lamblia. PHYSICAL REVIEW. E, STATISTICAL, NONLINEAR, AND SOFT MATTER PHYSICS 2013; 88:012726. [PMID: 23944509 DOI: 10.1103/physreve.88.012726] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2013] [Revised: 05/16/2013] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
The goal of this work was to analyze the propulsion of multiflagellated microorganisms, and to draw insight to the underlying physics and biology of the movement. Giardia lamblia was chosen as the model organism due to its unique ability to mechanically attach to various surfaces, its rapid movement, and its fine control over steering and navigation. In this work, a mechanics model was utilized to study the mechanics and propulsive contribution of the ventral and anterior flagella in Giardia. It was discovered that energy is supplied mainly at the proximal portion of these flagella, supporting the hypothesis that a decreasing adenosine triphosphate (ATP) gradient along the length of the flagella would not affect the motion observed. Similarly, the elasticity of the flagella allows the energy input at the proximal portion to be transferred to the distal portion, where the majority of thrust is generated. Specifically, we found that the ventral flagella are the driving force for planar propulsion and turning, while the anterior flagella are used for steering and control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Scott C Lenaghan
- Department of Mechanical, Aerospace, and Biomedical Engineering, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Tennessee 37996, USA
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Zoonotic diseases of common pet birds: psittacine, passerine, and columbiform species. Vet Clin North Am Exot Anim Pract 2012; 14:457-76, vi. [PMID: 21872782 DOI: 10.1016/j.cvex.2011.05.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Zoonotic transmission of disease from pet birds is uncommon, but there are some recognized dangers. Most notably, Chlamydophila psittaci can be transmitted from pet birds to humans. Allergic responses to pet birds, including pneumonitis and contact dermatitis, have also been documented. Bite wounds from pet birds are rarely reported but can cause trauma and develop infection. The other diseases discussed here are considered potential zoonotic diseases of pet birds because of either isolated reports of suspected but unconfirmed transmission to humans or from reports of wild conspecifics being reported to have the disease.
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Papini R, Girivetto M, Marangi M, Mancianti F, Giangaspero A. Endoparasite infections in pet and zoo birds in Italy. ScientificWorldJournal 2012; 2012:253127. [PMID: 22536128 PMCID: PMC3317575 DOI: 10.1100/2012/253127] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2011] [Accepted: 11/29/2011] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Faecal samples were individually collected from pet (n = 63) and zoo (n = 83) birds representing 14 orders and 63 species. All the samples were examined by faecal flotation technique. In a subgroup of samples (n = 75), molecular assays were also used to detect Cryptosporidium oocysts and Giardia duodenalis cysts. Overall, 35.6% of the birds harboured parasites (42.2% of zoo birds and 27% of pet birds), including Strongyles-Capillarids (8.9%), Ascaridia (6.8%), Strongyles (5.5%), G. duodenalis Assemblage A (5.3%), Coccidia (4.1%), Cryptosporidium (4%), Porrocaecum (2.7%), Porrocaecum-Capillarids (2%), and Syngamus-Capillarids (0.7%). The zoonotic G. duodenalis Assemblage A and Cryptosporidium were exclusively found in Psittaciformes, with prevalences of 10.3% and 7.7% within this bird group. Zoo birds were more likely to harbor mixed infections (OR = 14.81) and symptomatic birds to be parasitized (OR = 4.72). Clinicians should be aware of the public health implications posed by zoonotic G. duodenalis Assemblages and Cryptosporidium species in captive birds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberto Papini
- Dipartimento di Patologia Animale, Profilassi e Igiene degli Alimenti, University of Pisa, Viale delle Piagge 2, 56124 Pisa, Italy.
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Budu-Amoako E, Greenwood SJ, Dixon BR, Barkema HW, McClure JT. Foodborne illness associated with Cryptosporidium and Giardia from livestock. J Food Prot 2011; 74:1944-55. [PMID: 22054199 DOI: 10.4315/0362-028x.jfp-11-107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Waterborne outbreaks caused by Cryptosporidium and Giardia are well documented, while the public health implications for foodborne illness from these parasites have not been adequately considered. Cryptosporidium and Giardia are common in domestic livestock, where young animals can have a high prevalence of infection, shedding large numbers of oocysts and cysts. Molecular epidemiological studies have advanced our knowledge on the distribution of Cryptosporidium and Giardia species and genotypes in specific livestock. This has enabled better source tracking of contaminated foods. Livestock generate large volumes of fecal waste, which can contaminate the environment with (oo)cysts. Evidence suggests that livestock, particularly cattle, play a significant role in food contamination, leading to outbreaks of cryptosporidiosis. However, foodborne giardiasis seems to originate primarily from anthroponotic sources. Foodborne cryptosporidiosis and giardiasis are underreported because of the limited knowledge of the zoonotic potential and public health implications. Methods more sensitive and cheaper are needed to detect the often-low numbers of (oo)cysts in contaminated food and water. As the environmental burden of Cryptosporidium oocysts and Giardia cysts from livestock waste increases with the projected increase in animal agriculture, public health is further compromised. Contamination of food by livestock feces containing Cryptosporidium oocysts and Giardia cysts could occur via routes that span the entire food production continuum. Intervention strategies aimed at preventing food contamination with Cryptosporidium and Giardia will require an integrated approach based on knowledge of the potential points of entry for these parasites into the food chain. This review examines the potential for foodborne illness from Cryptosporidium and Giardia from livestock sources and discusses possible mechanisms for prevention and control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ebo Budu-Amoako
- Department of Health Management, Atlantic Veterinary College, University of Prince Edward Island, 550 University Avenue, Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island, Canada C1A 4P3.
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Solaymani-Mohammadi S, Singer SM. Host immunity and pathogen strain contribute to intestinal disaccharidase impairment following gut infection. THE JOURNAL OF IMMUNOLOGY 2011; 187:3769-75. [PMID: 21873528 DOI: 10.4049/jimmunol.1100606] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Infection or other inflammatory insults in the small intestine often result in reduced disaccharidase enzyme levels. Using a mouse model of giardiasis, we examined the role of host immunity and pathogen virulence in mediating disaccharidase deficiency postinfection (p.i.). C57BL/6J mice were infected with two strains, WB and GS, of the human parasite Giardia duodenalis. The levels of sucrase, maltase, and lactase decreased in wild-type mice p.i. with the GS strain but not with the WB strain. Both CD4-deficient and SCID mice failed to eliminate the infection and did not exhibit disaccharidase deficiency. β(2)-Microglobulin knockout animals controlled infections similar to wild-type mice but exhibited no decrease in disaccharidase activity. Analysis of cytokine production by spleen and mesenteric lymph node cells showed production of IL-4, IL-10, IL-13, IL-17, IL-22, TNF-α, and IFN-γ p.i. with both WB and GS, with IFN-γ being the dominant cytokine for both parasite strains. Mesenteric lymph node cells produced lower levels of cytokines compared with splenocytes in response to parasite extract, although the overall pattern was similar. These data suggest that T cell responses mediate parasite clearance whereas also contributing to pathogenesis. They also demonstrate that differences in pathogen strain can also determine the outcome of infection and further our understanding of the clinical variation seen in human giardiasis.
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High-speed microscopic imaging of flagella motility and swimming in Giardia lamblia trophozoites. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2011; 108:E550-8. [PMID: 21808023 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1106904108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
We report, in this paper, several findings about the swimming and attachment mechanisms of Giardia lamblia trophozoites. These data were collected using a combination of a high-contrast CytoViva imaging system and a particle image velocimetry camera, which can capture images at speeds greater than 800 frames/s. Using this system, we discovered that, during rapid swimming of Giardia trophozoites, undulations of the caudal region contributed to forward propulsion combined with the beating of the flagella pairs. It was also discovered, in contrast to previous studies with 10 times slower image sampling technique, that the anterior and posterolateral flagella beat with a clearly defined power stroke and not symmetrical undulations. During the transition from free swimming to attachment, trophozoites modified their swimming behavior from a rapid rotating motion to a more stable planar swimming. While using this planar swimming motion, the trophozoites used the flagella for propulsion and directional control. In addition to examination of the posterolateral and anterior flagella, a model to describe the motion of the ventral flagella was derived, indicating that the ventral flagella beat in an expanding sine wave. In addition, the structure of the ventrocaudal groove creates boundary conditions that determine the form of beating of the ventral flagella. The results from this study indicate that Giardia is able to simultaneously generate both ciliary beating and typical eukaryotic flagellar beating using different pairs of flagella.
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Rayan P, Stenzel D, McDonnell PA. The effects of saturated fatty acids on Giardia duodenalis trophozoites in vitro. Parasitol Res 2005; 97:191-200. [PMID: 15991042 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-005-1432-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2005] [Accepted: 06/07/2005] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Giardia duodenalis is a protozoal, intestinal parasite that is a common aetiological agent of infectious diarrhoea in humans worldwide. Chemotherapeutic intervention presently offers a limited range of drugs and these are usually only employed after clinical diagnosis. Moreover, these drugs are ineffective against the infectious cysts, can produce unpleasant side effects, and are expensive with limited availability in developing countries. Frequent reports of drug toxicity, treatment failure and parasite drug resistance have, in some instances, also resulted in the increasing reluctance to over-prescribe synthetic anti-microbials. Alternatively, there is now mounting evidence to suggest that some of the naturally derived, medium-chain, saturated fatty acids (MCSFAs) possess anti-microbial and anti-parasitic properties. We have therefore examined the effects of four different fatty acids on G. duodenalis trophozoites in vitro. Cytotoxicity was determined using fluorescence, scanning and transmission electron microscopic techniques and standard cytotoxicity assays. Our studies have confirmed that the MCSFA, dodecanoic acid (C: 12) (common name: lauric acid), is anti-giardial, with an LD50 concentration comparable to that of metronidazole, the drug of choice in the treatment of giardiasis. Dodecanoic acid appeared to induce trophozoite death by accumulating within the parasite cytoplasm resulting in rupture of the cell membrane. This study has opened fresh avenues for development of natural drug therapy in which food supplementation may augment, or even replace, some of the standard chemotherapeutic agents presently employed in the treatment of giardiasis and possibly other infectious intestinal diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paran Rayan
- School of Biomolecular and Biomedical Sciences, Griffith University, Kessels Road, Nathan, Brisbane, Qld, 4111, Australia
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Monis PT, Giglio S, Keegan AR, Andrew Thompson RC. Emerging technologies for the detection and genetic characterization of protozoan parasites. Trends Parasitol 2005; 21:340-6. [PMID: 15925542 DOI: 10.1016/j.pt.2005.05.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2005] [Revised: 04/04/2005] [Accepted: 05/10/2005] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
The development and adaptation of new technologies for the genetic characterization and identification of parasites continue to accelerate, providing an increasing number of research and analytical tools. We review emerging technologies that have applications in this area, including real-time PCR and microarrays, and discuss the fundamental principles of some of these technologies and how they are applied to characterize parasites. We give special consideration to the application of genetic data to biological questions, where selection of the most appropriate technique depends on the biological question posed by the investigator.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul T Monis
- Australian Water Quality Centre, South Australian Water Corporation, Private Mail Bag 3, Salisbury, South Australia 5108, Australia.
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Thompson RCA, Monis PT. Variation in Giardia: implications for taxonomy and epidemiology. ADVANCES IN PARASITOLOGY 2005; 58:69-137. [PMID: 15603762 DOI: 10.1016/s0065-308x(04)58002-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 182] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
The taxonomy, life cycle patterns and zoonotic potential of Giardia infecting mammals and birds have been poorly understood and controversial for many years. The development of molecular tools for characterising isolates of Giardia directly from faeces or environmental samples has made an enormous contribution to resolving these issues. It is now clear that the G. duodenalis morphological group is a species complex comprising a series of what appear to be largely host-adapted species, and at least two zoonotic species for which humans are the major host, but which are also capable of infecting other mammals. It is proposed that this new information be reflected in the redesignation of several species of Giardia described previously. The molecular epidemiological tools that are now available need to be applied in different endemic foci of Giardia transmission, as well as in outbreak situations, in order to understand better the frequency of zoonotic transmission as well as to develop more effective approaches to controlling giardiasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- R C A Thompson
- WHO Collaborating Centre for the Molecular Epidemiology of Parasitic Infections, Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences, Murdoch University, Murdoch, WA 1650, Australia.
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Abstract
The taxonomy and molecular epidemiology of Giardia and Giardia infections are reviewed in the context of zoonotic and waterborne transmission. Evidence to support the zoonotic transmission of Giardia is very strong, but how frequent such transmission occurs and under what circumstances, have yet to be determined. Zoonotic origin for waterborne outbreaks of Giardia infection appears to be uncommon. Similarly, livestock are unlikely to be an important source of infection in humans. The greatest risk of zoonotic transmission appears to be from companion animals such as dogs and cats, although further studies are required in different endemic foci in order to determine the frequency of such transmission.
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Affiliation(s)
- R C Andrew Thompson
- WHO Collaborating Centre for the Molecular Epidemiology of Parasitic Infections and Western Australian Biomedical Research Institute, Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences, Murdoch University, Murdoch, WA 6150, Australia.
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Monis PT, Thompson RCA. Cryptosporidium and Giardia-zoonoses: fact or fiction? INFECTION GENETICS AND EVOLUTION 2003; 3:233-44. [PMID: 14636685 DOI: 10.1016/j.meegid.2003.08.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 138] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Giardia and Cryptosporidium are enteric protozoan parasites that infect a wide range of vertebrate hosts. Both are transmitted either by direct faecal/oral contact or by the ingestion of contaminated food or water. The discovery of morphologically similar organisms infecting humans and a variety of mammals and birds has led to the proposal that both Cryptosporidium and Giardia are zoonotic (i.e. transmitted in nature between humans and animals). Transmission between humans and animals has been supported by cross-infection studies. However, closer examination of many of these studies reveals limitations in the methodologies utilised. More recent molecular genetic studies have demonstrated considerable genetic diversity among isolates of the same species of Giardia and Cryptosporidium, suggesting that these species are in fact species complexes and that some of these novel species may be host-specific. This paper will critically examine the evidence for the zoonotic transmission of these parasites.
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Affiliation(s)
- P T Monis
- Australian Water Quality Centre, South Australian Water Corporation and Cooperative Research Centre for Water Quality and Treatment, Private Mail Bag 3, SA 5108, Salisbury, Australia.
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