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Ulloa GM, Greenwood AD, Cornejo OE, Monteiro FOB, Scofield A, Santolalla Robles ML, Lescano AG, Mayor P. Phylogenetic congruence of Plasmodium spp. and wild ungulate hosts in the Peruvian Amazon. INFECTION, GENETICS AND EVOLUTION : JOURNAL OF MOLECULAR EPIDEMIOLOGY AND EVOLUTIONARY GENETICS IN INFECTIOUS DISEASES 2024; 118:105554. [PMID: 38246398 DOI: 10.1016/j.meegid.2024.105554] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2023] [Revised: 01/11/2024] [Accepted: 01/15/2024] [Indexed: 01/23/2024]
Abstract
Malaria parasites are known to infect a variety of vertebrate hosts, including ungulates. However, ungulates of Amazonia have not been investigated. We report for the first time, the presence of parasite lineages closely related to Plasmodium odocoilei clade 1 and clade 2 in free-ranging South American red-brocket deer (Mazama americana; 44.4%, 4/9) and gray-brocket deer (Mazama nemorivaga; 50.0%, 1/2). We performed PCR-based analysis of blood samples from 47 ungulates of five different species collected during subsistence hunting by an indigenous community in the Peruvian Amazon. We detected Plasmodium malariae/brasilianum lineage in a sample from red-brocket deer. However, no parasite DNA was detected in collared peccary (Pecari tajacu; 0.0%, 0/10), white-lipped peccary (Tayassu pecari; 0.0%, 0/15), and tapir (Tapirus terrestris; 0.0%, 0/11). Concordant phylogenetic analyses suggested a possible co-evolutionary relationship between the Plasmodium lineages found in American deer and their hosts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriela M Ulloa
- Departament de Sanitat i d'Anatomia Animals, Facultat de Veterinària, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Edifici V, Bellaterra-Barcelona E-08193, Spain; Programa de Pós-Graduação em Saúde e Produção Animal na Amazônia, Universidade Federal Rural da Amazônia (UFRA), Av. Presidente Tancredo Neves 2501, Terra Firme, Belém 66077-830, Pará, Brazil; Grupo de Enfermedades Infecciosas Re-Emergentes, Universidad Científica del Sur (UCSUR), Lima, Peru.
| | - Alex D Greenwood
- Leibniz-Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, Alfred-Kowalke-Strasse 17, Berlin 10315, Germany; School of Veterinary Medicine, Freie Universität Berlin, Oertzenweg 19b, 14163, Germany
| | - Omar E Cornejo
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA, United States of America
| | - Frederico Ozanan Barros Monteiro
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Saúde e Produção Animal na Amazônia, Universidade Federal Rural da Amazônia (UFRA), Av. Presidente Tancredo Neves 2501, Terra Firme, Belém 66077-830, Pará, Brazil
| | - Alessandra Scofield
- Laboratory of Animal Parasitology, Postgraduate Program in Animal Health in the Amazon, Institute of Veterinary Medicine, Federal University of Pará, Castanhal, Brazil
| | - Meddly L Santolalla Robles
- Emerge, Research Unit on Emerging Diseases and Climate Change, Universidad Peruana Cayetano Heredia, Lima, Peru
| | - Andres G Lescano
- Emerge, Research Unit on Emerging Diseases and Climate Change, Universidad Peruana Cayetano Heredia, Lima, Peru
| | - Pedro Mayor
- Departament de Sanitat i d'Anatomia Animals, Facultat de Veterinària, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Edifici V, Bellaterra-Barcelona E-08193, Spain; Programa de Pós-Graduação em Saúde e Produção Animal na Amazônia, Universidade Federal Rural da Amazônia (UFRA), Av. Presidente Tancredo Neves 2501, Terra Firme, Belém 66077-830, Pará, Brazil; Comunidad de Manejo de Fauna Silvestre en la Amazonía y en Latinoamérica (COMFAUNA), 332 Malecon Tarapaca, Iquitos, Peru; Museo de Culturas Indígenas Amazónicas, Loreto, Iquitos, Peru.
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Narapakdeesakul D, Pengsakul T, Kaewparuehaschai M, Thongsahuan S, Moonmake S, Lekcharoen P, Thanee S, Pattaradilokrat S, Kaewthamasorn M. Zoonotic simian malaria parasites in free-ranging Macaca fascicularis macaques and human malaria patients in Thailand, with a note on genetic characterization of recent isolates. Acta Trop 2023; 248:107030. [PMID: 37742788 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2023.107030] [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: 07/12/2023] [Revised: 09/19/2023] [Accepted: 09/21/2023] [Indexed: 09/26/2023]
Abstract
Despite the natural occurrences of human infections by Plasmodium knowlesi, P. cynomolgi, P. inui, and P. fieldi in Thailand, investigating the prevalence and genetic diversity of the zoonotic simian malaria parasites in macaque populations has been limited to certain areas. To address this gap, a total of 560 long-tailed macaques (Macaca fascicularis) and 20 southern pig-tailed macaques (M. nemestrina) were captured from 15 locations across 10 provinces throughout Thailand between 2018 and 2021 for investigation of malaria, as were 15 human samples residing in two simian-malaria endemic provinces, namely Songkhla and Satun, who exhibited malaria-like symptoms. Using PCR techniques targeting the mitochondrial cytb and cox1 genes coupled with DNA sequencing, 40 long-tailed macaques inhabiting five locations had mono-infections with one of the three simian malaria species. Most of the positive cases of macaque were infected with P. inui (32/40), while infections with P. cynomolgi (6/40) and P. knowlesi (2/40) were less common and confined to specific macaque populations. Interestingly, all 15 human cases were mono-infected with P. knowlesi, with one of them residing in an area with two P. knowlesi-infected macaques. Nucleotide sequence analysis showed a high level of genetic diversity in P. inui, while P. cynomolgi and P. knowlesi displayed limited genetic diversity. Phylogenetic and haplotype network analyses revealed that P. inui in this study was closely related to simian and Anopheles isolates from Peninsular Malaysia, while P. cynomolgi clustered with simian and human isolates from Asian countries. P. knowlesi, which was found in both macaques and humans in this study, was closely related to isolates from macaques, humans, and An. hackeri in Peninsular Malaysia, suggesting a sylvatic transmission cycle extending across these endemic regions. This study highlights the current hotspots for zoonotic simian malaria and sheds light on the genetic characteristics of recent isolates in both macaques and human residents in Thailand.
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Affiliation(s)
- Duriyang Narapakdeesakul
- Veterinary Pathobiology Graduate Program, Department of Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand; Veterinary Parasitology Research Unit, Department of Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
| | - Theerakamol Pengsakul
- Health and Environmental Research Center, Faculty of Environmental Management, Prince of Songkla University, Songkhla 90110, Thailand
| | - Mutchamon Kaewparuehaschai
- Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation, Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment, Bangkok 10900, Thailand
| | - Salintorn Thongsahuan
- Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation, Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment, Bangkok 10900, Thailand
| | - Sopavadee Moonmake
- The Office of Disease Prevention and Control Region 12 Songkhla, Department of Disease Control, Ministry of Public Health, Songkhla 90000, Thailand
| | - Paisin Lekcharoen
- Veterinary Public Health Graduate Program, Department of Veterinary Public Health, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
| | - Suchansa Thanee
- Veterinary Parasitology Research Unit, Department of Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
| | | | - Morakot Kaewthamasorn
- Veterinary Parasitology Research Unit, Department of Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand.
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Hernandez-Caballero I, Hellgren O, Garcia-Longoria Batanete L. Genomic advances in the study of the mosquito vector during avian malaria infection. Parasitology 2023; 150:1330-1339. [PMID: 37614176 PMCID: PMC10941221 DOI: 10.1017/s0031182023000756] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2023] [Revised: 07/28/2023] [Accepted: 07/28/2023] [Indexed: 08/25/2023]
Abstract
Invertebrate host–parasite associations are one of the keystones in order to understand vector-borne diseases. The study of these specific interactions provides information not only about how the vector is affected by the parasite at the gene-expression level, but might also reveal mosquito strategies for blocking the transmission of the parasites. A very well-known vector for human malaria is Anopheles gambiae. This mosquito species has been the main focus for genomics studies determining essential key genes and pathways over the course of a malaria infection. However, to-date there is an important knowledge gap concerning other non-mammophilic mosquito species, for example some species from the Culex genera which may transmit avian malaria but also zoonotic pathogens such as West Nile virus. From an evolutionary perspective, these 2 mosquito genera diverged 170 million years ago, hence allowing studies in both species determining evolutionary conserved genes essential during malaria infections, which in turn might help to find key genes for blocking malaria cycle inside the mosquito. Here, we extensively review the current knowledge on key genes and pathways expressed in Anopheles over the course of malaria infections and highlight the importance of conducting genomic investigations for detecting pathways in Culex mosquitoes linked to infection of avian malaria. By pooling this information, we underline the need to increase genomic studies in mosquito–parasite associations, such as the one in Culex–Plasmodium, that can provide a better understanding of the infection dynamics in wildlife and reduce the negative impact on ecosystems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irene Hernandez-Caballero
- Department of Anatomy, Cellular Biology and Zoology, University of Extremadura, E-06071 Badajoz, Spain
| | - Olof Hellgren
- Molecular Ecology and Evolution Lab, Department of Biology, Lund University, Sölvegatan 37, SE-22362, Sweden
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Poofery J, Ngamprasertwong T, Narapakdeesakul D, Arnuphapprasert A, Nugraheni YR, Thanee S, Asada M, Kaneko O, Kaewthamasorn M. Complete mitochondrial genome analyses confirm that bat Polychromophilus and ungulate Plasmodium constitute a distinct clade independent of other Plasmodium species. Sci Rep 2023; 13:20258. [PMID: 37985797 PMCID: PMC10662395 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-45551-z] [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: 06/29/2023] [Accepted: 10/20/2023] [Indexed: 11/22/2023] Open
Abstract
In recent phylogenetic studies, bat Polychromophilus and ungulate Plasmodium, two relatively understudied haemosporidian parasites within the Apicomplexa phylum, have often been overlooked. Instead, the focus has been primarily on haemosporidian parasites in primates, rodents, and birds. Several phylogenetic analyses of bat Polychromophilus have relied on limited datasets and short informative DNA sequences. As a result of these inherent limitations, the substantiation of their evolutionary stance has encountered a diminished degree of robust validation. This study successfully obtained complete mitochondrial genome sequences from 11 Polychromophilus parasites originating from Hipposideros gentilis and Myotis siligoensis bats for the first time. Additionally, the authors have sequenced the apicoplast caseinolytic protease C genes from Polychromophilus murinus and a potentially new Polychromophilus species. These mitochondrial genomes range in length from 5994 to 6001 bp and consist of three protein-coding genes (PCGs), seven small subunit ribosomal RNA genes (SSU rRNA), 12 large subunit ribosomal RNA genes (LSU rRNA), and seven miscellaneous RNA genes. Phylogenetic analyses using Bayesian Inference and Maximum Likelihood methods indicated robust support for the grouping of ungulate Plasmodium and bat Polychromophilus in a single clade separate from other Plasmodium spp., confirming previous reports, albeit with stronger evidence in this study. The divergence between Polychromophilus in bats and Plasmodium in ungulates occurred approximately 29.61 to 55.77 million years ago (Mya), with a node age estimated at 40.63 Mya. These findings highlight that the genus Plasmodium, which includes species found in ungulates, birds, reptiles, and other mammals, does not form a monophyletic group. By incorporating Polychromophilus in bats and Plasmodium in ungulates, this study contributes significantly to understanding the phylogenetic relationships within the Haemosporida order. It provides valuable insights into the evolutionary history and interconnections among these diverse parasites, thereby expanding knowledge in this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juthathip Poofery
- Veterinary Parasitology Research Unit, Department of Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | | | - Duriyang Narapakdeesakul
- Veterinary Parasitology Research Unit, Department of Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
- Veterinary Pathobiology Graduate Program, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Apinya Arnuphapprasert
- Veterinary Parasitology Research Unit, Department of Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Yudhi Ratna Nugraheni
- Veterinary Parasitology Research Unit, Department of Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
- The International Graduate Program of Veterinary Science and Technology (VST), Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universitas Gadjah Mada, Sleman, Indonesia
| | - Suchansa Thanee
- Veterinary Parasitology Research Unit, Department of Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Masahito Asada
- Research Unit for Global Infection Control, National Research Center for Protozoan Diseases, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro, 080-8555, Japan
| | - Osamu Kaneko
- Department of Protozoology, Institute of Tropical Medicine (NEKKEN), Nagasaki University, Nagasaki, 852-8523, Japan
| | - Morakot Kaewthamasorn
- Veterinary Parasitology Research Unit, Department of Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand.
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Ye C, Zhang L, Tang L, Duan Y, Liu J, Zhou H. Host genetic backgrounds: the key to determining parasite-host adaptation. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2023; 13:1228206. [PMID: 37637465 PMCID: PMC10449477 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2023.1228206] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2023] [Accepted: 07/20/2023] [Indexed: 08/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Parasitic diseases pose a significant threat to global public health, particularly in developing countries. Host genetic factors play a crucial role in determining susceptibility and resistance to infection. Recent advances in molecular and biological technologies have enabled significant breakthroughs in understanding the impact of host genes on parasite adaptation. In this comprehensive review, we analyze the host genetic factors that influence parasite adaptation, including hormones, nitric oxide, immune cells, cytokine gene polymorphisms, parasite-specific receptors, and metabolites. We also establish an interactive network to better illustrate the complex relationship between host genetic factors and parasite-host adaptation. Additionally, we discuss future directions and collaborative research priorities in the parasite-host adaptation field, including investigating the impact of host genes on the microbiome, developing more sophisticated models, identifying and characterizing parasite-specific receptors, utilizing patient-derived sera as diagnostic and therapeutic tools, and developing novel treatments and management strategies targeting specific host genetic factors. This review highlights the need for a comprehensive and systematic approach to investigating the underlying mechanisms of parasite-host adaptation, which requires interdisciplinary collaborations among biologists, geneticists, immunologists, and clinicians. By deepening our understanding of the complex interactions between host genetics and parasite adaptation, we can develop more effective and targeted interventions to prevent and treat parasitic diseases. Overall, this review provides a valuable resource for researchers and clinicians working in the parasitology field and offers insights into the future directions of this critical research area.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caixia Ye
- Clinical Medical Research Center, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
- Department of Pediatrics, Yunyang Women and Children’s Hospital (Yunyang Maternal and Child Health Hospital), Chongqing, China
| | - Lianhua Zhang
- Clinical Medical Research Center, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
- Department of Surgery, Yunyang Women and Children’s Hospital (Yunyang Maternal and Child Health Hospital), Chongqing, China
| | - Lili Tang
- The 3rd Affiliated Teaching Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University (Affiliated Tumor Hospital), Urumqi, China
| | - Yongjun Duan
- Department of Pediatrics, Yunyang Women and Children’s Hospital (Yunyang Maternal and Child Health Hospital), Chongqing, China
| | - Ji Liu
- Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China and Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Hongli Zhou
- Clinical Medical Research Center, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
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Pacheco MA, Escalante AA. Origin and diversity of malaria parasites and other Haemosporida. Trends Parasitol 2023; 39:501-516. [PMID: 37202254 DOI: 10.1016/j.pt.2023.04.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2023] [Revised: 04/17/2023] [Accepted: 04/23/2023] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
Symbionts, including parasites, are ubiquitous in all world ecosystems. Understanding the diversity of symbiont species addresses diverse questions, from the origin of infectious diseases to inferring processes shaping regional biotas. Here, we review the current approaches to studying Haemosporida's species diversity and evolutionary history. Despite the solid knowledge of species linked to diseases, such as the agents of human malaria, studies on haemosporidian phylogeny, diversity, ecology, and evolution are still limited. The available data, however, indicate that Haemosporida is an extraordinarily diverse and cosmopolitan clade of symbionts. Furthermore, this clade seems to have originated with their vertebrate hosts, particularly birds, as part of complex community level processes that we are still characterizing.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Andreína Pacheco
- Biology Department/Institute of Genomics and Evolutionary Medicine (iGEM), Temple University, Philadelphia, PA 19122-1801, USA.
| | - Ananias A Escalante
- Biology Department/Institute of Genomics and Evolutionary Medicine (iGEM), Temple University, Philadelphia, PA 19122-1801, USA.
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Nguyen AHL, Nugraheni YR, Nguyen TT, Aung A, Narapakdeesakul D, Kaewlamun W, Asada M, Kaewthamasorn M. Molecular characterization of anopheline mosquitoes from the goat malaria-endemic areas of Thailand. MEDICAL AND VETERINARY ENTOMOLOGY 2023; 37:381-395. [PMID: 36598082 DOI: 10.1111/mve.12638] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2022] [Accepted: 12/20/2022] [Indexed: 05/18/2023]
Abstract
Despite the fact that over a 100 anopheline mosquito species have been identified as human malaria vectors, little is known about ungulate malaria vectors. Consequently, we focused on investigating the bionomics and genetic characterizations of anopheline mosquitoes in goat malaria-endemic regions. We also attempted to screen for ungulate malaria potential vectors. A total of 1019 female anopheline mosquitoes were collected from six goat farms in four provinces of Thailand from 2020 to 2021. Mosquitoes were morphologically identified and subsequently confirmed using the mitochondrial DNA barcoding region-cytochrome oxidase c subunit I (MtDNA-COI), mitochondrial DNA-cytochrome c oxidase subunit II (MtDNA-COII), and ribosomal DNA internal transcribed spacer 2 (rDNA-ITS2) sequences. The current study reveals the genetic characteristics and distribution of nine mosquito species within the Anopheles and Cellia subgenera. Four dominant species, including Anopheles peditaeniatus, Anopheles subpictus, Anopheles vagus, and Anopheles aconitus exhibited significant intraspecific gene flow within their corresponding species. Although malaria parasites were not found in 126 mosquito pools, meaning more investigation is necessary, the current study adds to the existing DNA barcoding data collection and improves the current understanding of the genetic structure and distribution of anopheline mosquito species, which could be useful for effective control of mosquito-borne diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anh Hoang Lan Nguyen
- The International Graduate Program of Veterinary Science and Technology (VST), Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
- Veterinary Parasitology Research Unit, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Yudhi Ratna Nugraheni
- The International Graduate Program of Veterinary Science and Technology (VST), Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
- Veterinary Parasitology Research Unit, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universitas Gadjah Mada, Yogyakarta, Indonesia
| | - Trang Thuy Nguyen
- The International Graduate Program of Veterinary Science and Technology (VST), Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
- Veterinary Parasitology Research Unit, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Aung Aung
- The International Graduate Program of Veterinary Science and Technology (VST), Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
- Veterinary Parasitology Research Unit, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Duriyang Narapakdeesakul
- Veterinary Parasitology Research Unit, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
- Veterinary Pathobiology Graduate Program, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Winai Kaewlamun
- School of Agricultural Resources, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Masahito Asada
- National Research Center for Protozoan Diseases, Department of Global Cooperation, Research Unit for Global Infection Control, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary, Obihiro, Japan
| | - Morakot Kaewthamasorn
- Veterinary Parasitology Research Unit, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
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García-Longoria L, Ahrén D, Berthomieu A, Kalbskopf V, Rivero A, Hellgren O. Immune gene expression in the mosquito vector Culex quinquefasciatus during an avian malaria infection. Mol Ecol 2023; 32:904-919. [PMID: 36448733 PMCID: PMC10108303 DOI: 10.1111/mec.16799] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2022] [Revised: 11/23/2022] [Accepted: 11/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022]
Abstract
Plasmodium relictum is the most widespread avian malaria parasite in the world. It is listed as one of the 100 most dangerous invasive species, having been responsible for the extinction of several endemic bird species, and the near-demise of several others. Here we present the first transcriptomic study focused on the effect of P. relictum on the immune system of its vector (the mosquito Culex quinquefasciatus) at different times post-infection. We show that over 50% of immune genes identified as being part of the Toll pathway and 30%-40% of the immune genes identified within the Imd pathway are overexpressed during the critical period spanning the parasite's oocyst and sporozoite formation (8-12 days), revealing the crucial role played by both these pathways in this natural mosquito-Plasmodium combination. Comparison of infected mosquitoes with their uninfected counterparts also revealed some unexpected immune RNA expression patterns earlier and later in the infection: significant differences in expression of several immune effectors were observed as early as 30 min after ingestion of the infected blood meal. In addition, in the later stages of the infection (towards the end of the mosquito lifespan), we observed an unexpected increase in immune investment in uninfected, but not in infected, mosquitoes. In conclusion, our work extends the comparative transcriptomic analyses of malaria-infected mosquitoes beyond human and rodent parasites and provides insights into the degree of conservation of immune pathways and into the selective pressures exerted by Plasmodium parasites on their vectors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luz García-Longoria
- Department of Anatomy, Cellular Biology and Zoology, University of Extremadura, Badajoz, Spain
| | - Dag Ahrén
- Molecular Ecology and Evolution Lab, Department of Biology, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | | | - Victor Kalbskopf
- Molecular Ecology and Evolution Lab, Department of Biology, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Ana Rivero
- MIVEGEC (CNRS, Université de Montpellier, IRD), Montpellier, France
| | - Olof Hellgren
- Molecular Ecology and Evolution Lab, Department of Biology, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
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Nguyen AHL, Pattaradilokrat S, Kaewlamun W, Kaneko O, Asada M, Kaewthamasorn M. Myzomyia and Pyretophorus series of Anopheles mosquitoes acting as probable vectors of the goat malaria parasite Plasmodium caprae in Thailand. Sci Rep 2023; 13:145. [PMID: 36599869 PMCID: PMC9812981 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-26833-4] [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: 11/09/2022] [Accepted: 12/21/2022] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Unlike malaria parasites in humans, non-human primates, rodents, and birds, ungulate malaria parasites and their vectors have received little attention. As a result, understanding of the hosts, vectors, and biology of ungulate malaria parasites has remained limited. In this study, we aimed to identify the vectors of the goat malaria parasite Plasmodium caprae. A total of 1019 anopheline and 133 non-anopheline mosquitoes were collected from goat farms in Thailand, where P. caprae-infected goats were discovered. Anopheline mosquitoes were identified using molecular biological methods that target the cytochrome c oxidase subunit 1 (cox1), the cytochrome c oxidase subunit 2 (cox2) genes, and the internal transcribed spacer 2 (ITS2) region. Pool and individual mosquitoes were tested for P. caprae using the head-thorax parts that contain the salivary glands, with primers targeting three genetic markers including cytochrome b, cytochrome c oxidase subunit 1, and 18S small subunit ribosomal RNA genes. Additionally, goat blood samples were collected concurrently with mosquito surveys and screened to determine the status of malaria infection. This study revealed nine mosquito species belonging to six groups on goat farms, including Hyrcanus, Barbirostris, Subpictus, Funestus, Tessellatus, and Annularis. The DNA of P. caprae was detected in Anopheles subpictus and Anopheles aconitus. This is the first time An. subpictus and An. aconitus have been implicated as probable vectors of P. caprae.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anh Hoang Lan Nguyen
- grid.7922.e0000 0001 0244 7875The International Graduate Program of Veterinary Science and Technology (VST), Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, 10330 Thailand ,grid.7922.e0000 0001 0244 7875Veterinary Parasitology Research Unit, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, 10330 Thailand
| | - Sittiporn Pattaradilokrat
- grid.7922.e0000 0001 0244 7875Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, 10330 Thailand
| | - Winai Kaewlamun
- grid.7922.e0000 0001 0244 7875School of Agricultural Resources, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Osamu Kaneko
- grid.174567.60000 0000 8902 2273Department of Protozoology, Institute of Tropical Medicine (NEKKEN), Nagasaki University, Nagasaki, 852-8523 Japan
| | - Masahito Asada
- grid.412310.50000 0001 0688 9267National Research Center for Protozoan Diseases, Department of Global Cooperation, Research Unit for Global Infection Control, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro, 080-8555 Japan
| | - Morakot Kaewthamasorn
- grid.7922.e0000 0001 0244 7875Veterinary Parasitology Research Unit, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, 10330 Thailand
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Nugraheni YR, Arnuphapprasert A, Nguyen TT, Narapakdeesakul D, Nguyen HLA, Poofery J, Kaneko O, Asada M, Kaewthamasorn M. Myzorhynchus series of Anopheles mosquitoes as potential vectors of Plasmodium bubalis in Thailand. Sci Rep 2022; 12:5747. [PMID: 35388073 PMCID: PMC8987089 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-09686-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2021] [Accepted: 03/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Ungulate malaria parasites and their vectors are among the least studied when compared to other medically important species. As a result, a thorough understanding of ungulate malaria parasites, hosts, and mosquito vectors has been lacking, necessitating additional research efforts. This study aimed to identify the vector(s) of Plasmodium bubalis. A total of 187 female mosquitoes (133 Anopheles spp., 24 Culex spp., 24 Aedes spp., and 6 Mansonia spp. collected from a buffalo farm in Thailand where concurrently collected water buffalo samples were examined and we found only Anopheles spp. samples were P. bubalis positive. Molecular identification of anopheline mosquito species was conducted by sequencing of the PCR products targeting cytochrome c oxidase subunit 1 (cox1), cytochrome c oxidase subunit 2 (cox2), and internal transcribed spacer 2 (ITS2) markers. We observed 5 distinct groups of anopheline mosquitoes: Barbirostris, Hyrcanus, Ludlowae, Funestus, and Jamesii groups. The Barbirostris group (Anopheles wejchoochotei or Anopheles campestris) and the Hyrcanus group (Anopheles peditaeniatus) were positive for P. bubalis. Thus, for the first time, our study implicated these anopheline mosquito species as probable vectors of P. bubalis in Thailand.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yudhi Ratna Nugraheni
- The International Graduate Program of Veterinary Science and Technology (VST), Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, 10330, Thailand.,Veterinary Parasitology Research Unit, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, 10330, Thailand.,Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universitas Gadjah Mada, Yogyakarta, 55281, Indonesia
| | - Apinya Arnuphapprasert
- Veterinary Pathobiology Graduate Program, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, 10330, Thailand
| | - Trang Thuy Nguyen
- The International Graduate Program of Veterinary Science and Technology (VST), Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, 10330, Thailand
| | - Duriyang Narapakdeesakul
- Veterinary Pathobiology Graduate Program, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, 10330, Thailand
| | - Hoang Lan Anh Nguyen
- The International Graduate Program of Veterinary Science and Technology (VST), Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, 10330, Thailand
| | - Juthathip Poofery
- Veterinary Parasitology Research Unit, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, 10330, Thailand
| | - Osamu Kaneko
- Department of Protozoology, Institute of Tropical Medicine (NEKKEN), Nagasaki University, Nagasaki, 852-8523, Japan
| | - Masahito Asada
- National Research Center for Protozoan Diseases, Department of Global Cooperation, Research Unit for Global Infection Control, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary, Obihiro, 080-8555, Japan.
| | - Morakot Kaewthamasorn
- Veterinary Parasitology Research Unit, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, 10330, Thailand.
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11
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Huaman JL, Pacioni C, Forsyth DM, Pople A, Hampton JO, Helbig KJ, Carvalho TG. Evaluation of haemoparasite and Sarcocystis infections in Australian wild deer. Int J Parasitol Parasites Wildl 2021; 15:262-269. [PMID: 34277336 PMCID: PMC8261462 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijppaw.2021.06.006] [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: 05/12/2021] [Revised: 06/22/2021] [Accepted: 06/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Wild animals are natural reservoir hosts for a variety of pathogens that can be transmitted to other wildlife, livestock, other domestic animals, and humans. Wild deer (family Cervidae) in Europe, Asia, and North and South America have been reported to be infected with gastrointestinal and vector-borne parasites. In Australia, wild deer populations have expanded considerably in recent years, yet there is little information regarding which pathogens are present and whether these pathogens pose biosecurity threats to humans, wildlife, livestock, or other domestic animals. To address this knowledge gap, PCR-based screening for five parasitic genera was conducted in blood samples (n = 243) sourced from chital deer (Axis axis), fallow deer (Dama dama), rusa deer (Rusa timorensis) and sambar deer (Rusa unicolor) sampled in eastern Australia. These blood samples were tested for the presence of DNA from Plasmodium spp., Trypanosoma spp., Babesia spp., Theileria spp. and Sarcocystis spp. Further, the presence of antibodies against Babesia bovis was investigated in serum samples (n = 105) by immunofluorescence. In this study, neither parasite DNA nor antibodies were detected for any of the five genera investigated. These results indicate that wild deer are not currently host reservoirs for Plasmodium, Trypanosoma, Babesia, Theileria or Sarcocystis parasites in eastern Australia. We conclude that in eastern Australia, wild deer do not currently play a significant role in the transmission of these parasites. This survey represents the first large-scale molecular study of its type in Australian wild deer and provides important baseline information about the parasitic infection status of these animals. The expanding populations of wild deer throughout Australia warrant similar surveys in other parts of the country and surveillance efforts to continually assess the level of threat wild deer could pose to humans, wildlife, livestock and other domestic animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jose L. Huaman
- Department of Physiology, Anatomy and Microbiology, School of Life Sciences, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Victoria, 3086, Australia
| | - Carlo Pacioni
- Arthur Rylah Institute for Environmental Research, Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning, Heidelberg, Victoria, 3084, Australia
- Environmental and Conservation Sciences, Murdoch University, 90 South Street, Murdoch, Western Australia, 6150, Australia
| | - David M. Forsyth
- Vertebrate Pest Research Unit, NSW Department of Primary Industries, Orange, New South Wales, 2800, Australia
| | - Anthony Pople
- Invasive Plants & Animals Research, Biosecurity Queensland, Department of Agriculture and Fisheries, Ecosciences Precinct, Brisbane, Queensland, 4102, Australia
| | - Jordan O. Hampton
- Environmental and Conservation Sciences, Murdoch University, 90 South Street, Murdoch, Western Australia, 6150, Australia
- Ecotone Wildlife, PO Box 76, Inverloch, Victoria, 3996, Australia
| | - Karla J. Helbig
- Department of Physiology, Anatomy and Microbiology, School of Life Sciences, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Victoria, 3086, Australia
| | - Teresa G. Carvalho
- Department of Physiology, Anatomy and Microbiology, School of Life Sciences, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Victoria, 3086, Australia
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12
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Development of a novel multiplex PCR assay for the detection and differentiation of Plasmodium caprae from Theileria luwenshuni and Babesia spp. in goats. Acta Trop 2021; 220:105957. [PMID: 33979637 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2021.105957] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2021] [Revised: 04/29/2021] [Accepted: 04/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Intraerythrocytic parasites are traditionally identified by the microscopic examination of Giemsa-stained blood smears. However, this method does not always allow for the identification of individual species in goat's RBCs. Moreover, its unreliability in detecting low levels of parasitemia makes it unsuitable for epidemiological investigations and leaves goat farms vulnerable to potential outbreaks. In the present study, a novel multiplex PCR (mPCR) targeting the cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) gene was developed to detect and subsequently differentiate Plasmodium caprae, Theileria luwenshuni, and Babesia spp. The specificity of each primer set was assessed both in silico and with a panel of DNA samples from the hosts themselves and other goat hemoparasites. Amplicons generated from each pair of primers were 664, 555, and 320-bp for P. caprae, Babesia spp., and T. luwenshuni, respectively. These products were further confirmed by sequencing. Our novel mPCR reactions successfully demonstrated the accurate and simultaneous amplification of the three parasites' DNA samples. The current mPCR method showed no cross-amplification with unintended targets. The detection limit of the mPCR in this study was 108 parasites' DNA copies per reaction. The current mPCR was able to detect the minimum parasitemia of approximately 0.001%, 0.000005%, 0.00001% for P. caprae, Babesia spp. and T. luwenshuni, respectively. The diagnostic specificity in the detection of P. caprae and T. luwenshuni ranged from 94.9 to 100 %. The mPCR was further applied to a collection of field blood samples from five provinces in Thailand to validate its reliability and applicability. The results demonstrated the successful detection of P. caprae, Babesia spp. and T. luwenshuni in goat samples with the same sensitivity levels as conventional PCR methods. This study also confirmed the presence of T. luwenshuni and Babesia spp. in Thai goats. The current mPCR method offers an alternative for the diagnosis of P. caprae, T. luwenshuni, and Babesia spp., either single or under co-infection conditions, and for large-scale surveillance.
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13
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Sato S. Plasmodium-a brief introduction to the parasites causing human malaria and their basic biology. J Physiol Anthropol 2021; 40:1. [PMID: 33413683 PMCID: PMC7792015 DOI: 10.1186/s40101-020-00251-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 102] [Impact Index Per Article: 34.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2020] [Accepted: 12/21/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Malaria is one of the most devastating infectious diseases of humans. It is problematic clinically and economically as it prevails in poorer countries and regions, strongly hindering socioeconomic development. The causative agents of malaria are unicellular protozoan parasites belonging to the genus Plasmodium. These parasites infect not only humans but also other vertebrates, from reptiles and birds to mammals. To date, over 200 species of Plasmodium have been formally described, and each species infects a certain range of hosts. Plasmodium species that naturally infect humans and cause malaria in large areas of the world are limited to five—P. falciparum, P. vivax, P. malariae, P. ovale and P. knowlesi. The first four are specific for humans, while P. knowlesi is naturally maintained in macaque monkeys and causes zoonotic malaria widely in South East Asia. Transmission of Plasmodium species between vertebrate hosts depends on an insect vector, which is usually the mosquito. The vector is not just a carrier but the definitive host, where sexual reproduction of Plasmodium species occurs, and the parasite’s development in the insect is essential for transmission to the next vertebrate host. The range of insect species that can support the critical development of Plasmodium depends on the individual parasite species, but all five Plasmodium species causing malaria in humans are transmitted exclusively by anopheline mosquitoes. Plasmodium species have remarkable genetic flexibility which lets them adapt to alterations in the environment, giving them the potential to quickly develop resistance to therapeutics such as antimalarials and to change host specificity. In this article, selected topics involving the Plasmodium species that cause malaria in humans are reviewed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shigeharu Sato
- Borneo Medical and Health Research Centre, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Malaysia Sabah, Jalan UMS, 88400 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia. .,Department of Pathobiology and Medical Diagnostics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Malaysia Sabah, Jalan UMS, 88400, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia.
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14
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Su XZ, Wu J. Zoonotic Transmissions and Host Switches of Malaria Parasites. ZOONOSES (BURLINGTON, MASS.) 2021; 1. [PMID: 35282332 DOI: 10.15212/zoonoses-2021-0015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Malaria is a deadly disease that affects the health of hundreds of millions of people annually. There are five Plasmodium parasite species that can naturally infect humans, including Plasmodium falciparum, Plasmodium vivax, Plasmodium malariae, Plasmodium ovale and Plasmodium knowlesi. Some of the parasites can also infect various non-human primates. Parasites mainly infecting monkeys such as Plasmodium cynomolgi (in fact P. knowlesi was considered as a parasite of monkeys for years) can also be transmitted to human hosts. Recently, many new Plasmodium species were discovered in African apes, and it is possible that some of the parasites can be transmitted to humans in the future. Here, we searched PubMed and the internet via Google and selected articles concerning zoonotic transmission and evolution of selected malaria parasite species. We reviewed the current advances in the relevant topics emphasizing on transmissions of malaria parasites between humans and non-human primates. We also briefly discuss the transmissions of some avian malaria parasites between wild birds and domestic fowls. Zoonotic malaria transmissions are widespread, which poses a threat to public health. More studies on parasite species identification in non-human primates, transmission, and evolution are needed to reduce or prevent transmission of malaria parasites from non-human primates to humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin-Zhuan Su
- Malaria Functional Genomics Section, Laboratory of Malaria and Vector Research, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Disease, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892-8132, USA
| | - Jian Wu
- Malaria Functional Genomics Section, Laboratory of Malaria and Vector Research, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Disease, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892-8132, USA
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15
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Agostini M, Hininger-Favier I, Marcourt L, Boucherle B, Gao B, Hybertson BM, Bose SK, McCord JM, Millery A, Rome M, Ferreira Queiroz E, Wolfender JL, Gallet C, Boumendjel A. Phytochemical and Biological Investigation of Helianthemum nummularium, a High-Altitude Growing Alpine Plant Overrepresented in Ungulates Diets. PLANTA MEDICA 2020; 86:1185-1190. [PMID: 32645735 DOI: 10.1055/a-1197-2898] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Helianthemum nummularium is a European shrub growing at high altitude where it copes with a high level of stress. It was found to be overexpressed in ungulates diets compared to more abundant surrounding plants. These elements combined with the fact that H. nummularium from the Alps has never been investigated prompted us to study the phytochemical composition of its aerial parts. The analysis of the polar extract allowed for the isolation of eight compounds: p-hydroxybenzoic acid, tiliroside, kaempferol, astragalin, quercetin, plantainoside B, quercetin-3-O-glucoside, and quercetin-3-O-glucuronide. We investigated the effect of the polar extract and isolated compounds on nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 transcription factor, which regulates the expression of a wide variety of cytoprotective genes. We found that the ethanolic extract activates the expression of nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 in a dose-dependent manner, whereas the pure compounds were much less active. The activation of the nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 pathway by the plant extract could pave the way for studies to promote healthy aging through protection of cells against oxidative stress. Moreover, the isolated compounds could be investigated alone or in combination in the perspective of making the link between the ungulate's preference for this plant and possible use of it for self-medication.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Isabelle Hininger-Favier
- Univ. Grenoble Alpes, Inserm, LBFA, Grenoble, France
- University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Laurence Marcourt
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, EPGL, University of Geneva, University of Lausanne, CMU, Geneva, Switzerland
| | | | - Bifeng Gao
- University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
- Pathways Bioscience, Aurora, CO, USA
| | | | | | | | - Annie Millery
- Univ. Grenoble Alpes, Univ. Savoie Mont Blanc, CNRS, LECA, Grenoble, France
| | - Maxime Rome
- Univ. Grenoble Alpes, CNRS, SAJF, Grenoble, France
| | - Emerson Ferreira Queiroz
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, EPGL, University of Geneva, University of Lausanne, CMU, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Jean-Luc Wolfender
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, EPGL, University of Geneva, University of Lausanne, CMU, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Christiane Gallet
- Univ. Grenoble Alpes, Univ. Savoie Mont Blanc, CNRS, LECA, Grenoble, France
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16
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Su XZ, Zhang C, Joy DA. Host-Malaria Parasite Interactions and Impacts on Mutual Evolution. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2020; 10:587933. [PMID: 33194831 PMCID: PMC7652737 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2020.587933] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2020] [Accepted: 09/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Malaria is the most deadly parasitic disease, affecting hundreds of millions of people worldwide. Malaria parasites have been associated with their hosts for millions of years. During the long history of host-parasite co-evolution, both parasites and hosts have applied pressure on each other through complex host-parasite molecular interactions. Whereas the hosts activate various immune mechanisms to remove parasites during an infection, the parasites attempt to evade host immunity by diversifying their genome and switching expression of targets of the host immune system. Human intervention to control the disease such as antimalarial drugs and vaccination can greatly alter parasite population dynamics and evolution, particularly the massive applications of antimalarial drugs in recent human history. Vaccination is likely the best method to prevent the disease; however, a partially protective vaccine may have unwanted consequences that require further investigation. Studies of host-parasite interactions and co-evolution will provide important information for designing safe and effective vaccines and for preventing drug resistance. In this essay, we will discuss some interesting molecules involved in host-parasite interactions, including important parasite antigens. We also discuss subjects relevant to drug and vaccine development and some approaches for studying host-parasite interactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin-Zhuan Su
- Laboratory of Malaria and Vector Research, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Cui Zhang
- Laboratory of Malaria and Vector Research, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Deirdre A Joy
- Parasitology and International Programs Branch, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States
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17
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Nguyen AHL, Tiawsirisup S, Kaewthamasorn M. Molecular detection and genetic characterization of Anaplasma marginale and Anaplasma platys-like (Rickettsiales: Anaplasmataceae) in water buffalo from eight provinces of Thailand. BMC Vet Res 2020; 16:380. [PMID: 33032591 PMCID: PMC7542745 DOI: 10.1186/s12917-020-02585-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2020] [Accepted: 09/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Anaplasmosis, an animal disease caused by rickettsial bacteria in the genus Anaplasma, is of considerable economic importance in livestock animals in many countries worldwide. The objectives of this study were to determine the identity, prevalence, and geographic distribution of Ehrlichia and Anaplasma in naturally infected water buffalo in Thailand using PCR amplification and sequencing of the 16S ribosomal RNA and heat shock protein groEL genes. A total of 456 buffalo blood samples from Thailand were investigated. Species identification and genetic differentiation of intra-population and inter-population with the global isolates were conducted based on nucleotide sequences. Interplay between the infection and host factors was also assessed. Results Overall, 41% of water buffalo were found to be infected with rickettsial organisms in the family Anaplasmataceae, but Ehrlichia spp., Neorickettsia spp., and Wolbachia spp. were not found in any of the sequenced samples in this study. Female buffalo were more frequently infected with bacteria in the family Anaplasmataceae than males [71 out of 176 females (40.3%) versus 11 out of 47 males (23.4%)]. The Odds Ratio value indicated that the risk of infection for female buffalo was 2.2-fold higher than that for males (p < 0.05). We detected three haplotypes of A. marginale 16S rRNA gene and they were placed in a clade that was closely related to the A. marginale in buffalo in China; and cattle in Thailand, Uganda, and China. Homology searching of groEL sequences against the GenBank™ database using the BLASTn algorithm revealed that the obtained sequences had a high percentage similarity (98.36–99.62%) to A. platys sequences. The groEL sequences of three A. platys-like isolates were clustered in the same clade as the A. platys from the tick Rhipicephalus microplus in China. Conclusions Our data showed that the apparently healthy buffalo were naturally infected by bacteria in the family Anaplasmataceae at a relatively high prevalence. We also report the finding of A. platys-like infections in water buffalo in Thailand for the first time. Water buffalo serving as the reservoir host of anaplasmosis is of concern for managing the disease control and prevention in ruminants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anh H L Nguyen
- The international graduate course of Veterinary Science and Technology (VST), Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, 10330, Thailand.,Veterinary Parasitology Research Group, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, 10330, Thailand
| | - Sonthaya Tiawsirisup
- Animal Vector-Borne Disease Research Unit, The Veterinary Parasitology Unit, Department of Veterinary Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, 10330, Thailand
| | - Morakot Kaewthamasorn
- Veterinary Parasitology Research Group, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, 10330, Thailand. .,Animal Vector-Borne Disease Research Unit, The Veterinary Parasitology Unit, Department of Veterinary Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, 10330, Thailand.
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18
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Arnuphapprasert A, Riana E, Ngamprasertwong T, Wangthongchaicharoen M, Soisook P, Thanee S, Bhodhibundit P, Kaewthamasorn M. First molecular investigation of haemosporidian parasites in Thai bat species. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL FOR PARASITOLOGY-PARASITES AND WILDLIFE 2020; 13:51-61. [PMID: 32904325 PMCID: PMC7452641 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijppaw.2020.07.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2020] [Revised: 07/27/2020] [Accepted: 07/27/2020] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
Malaria parasites in the phylum Apicomplexa (Order: Haemosporida) infect diverse vertebrates and invertebrate hosts. At least seven genera of haemosporidian parasites have been described to exclusively infect bats. Most of these parasites remain enigmatic with a poorly known host range. Here, we investigated 271 bats belonging to 21 species and seven families from six provinces of Thailand. Overall, 124 out of 271 bats (45.8%) were positive for haemosporidian parasites, while none had Plasmodium, based on microscopic examination of blood smears and PCR amplification. We obtained 19 distinct cytochrome b (cytb) nucleotide haplotypes of Hepatocystis from seven bat species (families: Craseonycteridae, Hipposideridae, Pteropodidae, and Rhinolophidae). Nycteria was found in four bat species (Craseonycteridae, Emballonuridae, Megadermatidae, and Pteropodidae) and Polychromophilus in two species (Emballonuridae, Vespertilionidae). Phylogenetic analysis inferred from cytb sequences placed Hepatocystis into 2 different clades. Most Hepatocystis infections were found in insectivorous bats and clustered together with a sequence from Hipposideros larvatus in Cambodia (in subclade 1a). A single sequence of Hepatocystis obtained from a frugivorous bat, Cynopterus brachyotis, was placed in the same clade with Hepatocystis from the same bat species previously reported in Malaysia (clade 2). Nycteria in these Thai bats were clearly separated from the African isolates previously reported in bats in the family Rhinolophidae. Polychromophilus murinus from Myotis siligorensis was placed in a distinct clade (clade 2) from Polychromophilus melanipherus isolated from Taphozous melanopogon (clade 1). These results confirmed that at least two distinct species of Polychromophilus are found in Thailand. Collectively, Hepatocystis presented no host specificity. Although Megaderma spasma seemed to be infected by only Nycteria, its respective parasite does not show specificity to only a single bat host. Polychromophilus murinus and P. melanipherus seem to infect a narrower host range or are somehow restricted to bats in the families Vespertilionidae and Emballonuridae, respectively. First molecular analysis of haemosporidian parasites in 21 bat species across Thailand. Diverse bat species in Thailand are hosts of various haemosporidian parasites. High prevalence of haemosporidians in bats (124/271 bats; 45.8%). Hepatocystis, Nycteria, and Polychromophilus were discovered in Thai bats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Apinya Arnuphapprasert
- Veterinary Pathobiology Graduate Program, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, 10330, Thailand
| | - Elizabeth Riana
- The International Graduate Course of Veterinary Science and Technology (VST), Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, 10330, Thailand
| | | | | | - Pipat Soisook
- Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn Natural History Museum, Faculty of Science, Prince of Songkla University, Songkhla, 90110, Thailand
| | - Suchansa Thanee
- Veterinary Parasitology Research Group, Veterinary Parasitology Unit, Department of Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, 10330, Thailand
| | - Phanaschakorn Bhodhibundit
- Sai Yok National Park, Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation, Kanchanaburi, 71150, Thailand
| | - Morakot Kaewthamasorn
- Veterinary Parasitology Research Group, Veterinary Parasitology Unit, Department of Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, 10330, Thailand.,Wildlife Exotic and Aquatic Pathology-Research Unit, Department of Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, 10330, Thailand
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19
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Kirkman LA, Deitsch KW. Vive la Différence: Exploiting the Differences between Rodent and Human Malarias. Trends Parasitol 2020; 36:504-511. [PMID: 32407681 DOI: 10.1016/j.pt.2020.03.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2020] [Revised: 03/23/2020] [Accepted: 03/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Experimental research into malaria biology and pathogenesis has historically focused on two model systems, in vitro culture of the human parasite Plasmodium falciparum and in vivo infections of laboratory animals using rodent parasites. While there is clear value in having a manipulatable animal model for studying malaria, there have occasionally been controversies around how representative the rodent model is of the human disease, and therefore significant emphasis has been placed on the similarities between the two biological systems. By focusing on basic nuclear functions, we wish to highlight that identifying key differences in the parasites and their interactions with their mammalian hosts can be equally informative and provide remarkable insights into the biology and evolution of these important infectious organisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura A Kirkman
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY, USA; Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY, USA
| | - Kirk W Deitsch
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY, USA.
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20
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Kandel RC, Shrestha M, Sadaula A, Kc M, Maharjan J, Solanki GS, Chalise MK, Asada M, Kaneko O, Poudel RC, Pandey K. First report of malaria parasites in water buffalo in Nepal. VETERINARY PARASITOLOGY- REGIONAL STUDIES AND REPORTS 2019; 18:100348. [PMID: 31796186 DOI: 10.1016/j.vprsr.2019.100348] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2019] [Revised: 05/27/2019] [Accepted: 11/04/2019] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
We present the first molecular-based report on ungulate malaria parasites from water buffalo in Nepal. Fifty-six blood samples were collected from different groups of water buffalo (wild, feral, and domestic) and PCR assays were conducted using Plasmodium spp. cytb specific primers. Two positive cases were detected, one each from feral and domestic individuals. Complete mitochondrial genome sequence (5987 bp) was obtained and examined for nucleotide variations. Sequence analysis revealed identity with type II water buffalo malaria parasites, reported previously, with one A to T nucleotide difference at position 5344. Prevalence, as well as possible economic impacts of water buffalo malaria, should be determined on a wider set of samples from buffalo across Nepal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ram Chandra Kandel
- Department of National Parks and Wildlife Conservation, Ministry of Forest and Environment, Government of Nepal, Kathmandu, Nepal
| | - Mitesh Shrestha
- Molecular Biotechnology Unit, Nepal Academy of Science and Technology (NAST), Lalitpur, Nepal
| | - Amir Sadaula
- Biodiversity Conservation Center, National Trust for Nature Conservation- Chitwan, Nepal
| | - Medha Kc
- Molecular Biotechnology Unit, Nepal Academy of Science and Technology (NAST), Lalitpur, Nepal
| | - Jyoti Maharjan
- Molecular Biotechnology Unit, Nepal Academy of Science and Technology (NAST), Lalitpur, Nepal
| | | | | | - Masahito Asada
- Department of Protozoology, Institute of Tropical Medicine (NEKKEN), Nagasaki University, Nagasaki, Japan
| | - Osamu Kaneko
- Department of Protozoology, Institute of Tropical Medicine (NEKKEN), Nagasaki University, Nagasaki, Japan
| | - Ram Chandra Poudel
- Molecular Biotechnology Unit, Nepal Academy of Science and Technology (NAST), Lalitpur, Nepal.
| | - Kishor Pandey
- Molecular Biotechnology Unit, Nepal Academy of Science and Technology (NAST), Lalitpur, Nepal.
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21
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Apicoplast phylogeny reveals the position of Plasmodium vivax basal to the Asian primate malaria parasite clade. Sci Rep 2019; 9:7274. [PMID: 31086239 PMCID: PMC6514274 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-43831-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2019] [Accepted: 05/01/2019] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
The malaria parasite species, Plasmodium vivax infects not only humans, but also African apes. Human specific P. vivax has evolved from a single ancestor that originated from a parasite of African apes. Although previous studies have proposed phylogenetic trees positioning P. vivax (the common ancestor of human and African ape P. vivax) within the assemblages of Asian primate parasites, its position has not yet been robustly confirmed. We determined nearly complete apicoplast genome sequences from seven Asian primate parasites, Plasmodium cynomolgi (strains Ceylonensis and Berok), P. knowlesi P. fragile, P. fieldi, P. simiovale, P. hylobati, P. inui, and an African primate parasite, P. gonderi, that infects African guenon. Phylogenetic relationships of the Plasmodium species were analyzed using newly and previously determined apicoplast genome sequences. Multigene maximum likelihood analysis of 30 protein coding genes did not position P. vivax within the Asian primate parasite clade but positioned it basal to the clade, after the branching of an African guenon parasite, P. gonderi. The result does not contradict with the emerging notion that P. vivax phylogenetically originated from Africa. The result is also supported by phylogenetic analyses performed using massive nuclear genome data of seven primate Plasmodium species.
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Pacheco MA, Matta NE, Valkiunas G, Parker PG, Mello B, Stanley CE, Lentino M, Garcia-Amado MA, Cranfield M, Kosakovsky Pond SL, Escalante AA. Mode and Rate of Evolution of Haemosporidian Mitochondrial Genomes: Timing the Radiation of Avian Parasites. Mol Biol Evol 2019; 35:383-403. [PMID: 29126122 PMCID: PMC5850713 DOI: 10.1093/molbev/msx285] [Citation(s) in RCA: 101] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Haemosporidians are a diverse group of vector-borne parasitic protozoa that includes the agents of human malaria; however, most of the described species are found in birds and reptiles. Although our understanding of these parasites’ diversity has expanded by analyses of their mitochondrial genes, there is limited information on these genes’ evolutionary rates. Here, 114 mitochondrial genomes (mtDNA) were studied from species belonging to four genera: Leucocytozoon, Haemoproteus, Hepatocystis, and Plasmodium. Contrary to previous assertions, the mtDNA is phylogenetically informative. The inferred phylogeny showed that, like the genus Plasmodium, the Leucocytozoon and Haemoproteus genera are not monophyletic groups. Although sensitive to the assumptions of the molecular dating method used, the estimated times indicate that the diversification of the avian haemosporidian subgenera/genera took place after the Cretaceous–Paleogene boundary following the radiation of modern birds. Furthermore, parasite clade differences in mtDNA substitution rates and strength of negative selection were detected. These differences may affect the biological interpretation of mtDNA gene lineages used as a proxy to species in ecological and parasitological investigations. Given that the mitochondria are critically important in the parasite life cycle stages that take place in the vector and that the transmission of parasites belonging to particular clades has been linked to specific insect families/subfamilies, this study suggests that differences in vectors have affected the mode of evolution of haemosporidian mtDNA genes. The observed patterns also suggest that the radiation of haemosporidian parasites may be the result of community-level evolutionary processes between their vertebrate and invertebrate hosts.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Andreína Pacheco
- Department of Biology, Institute for Genomics and Evolutionary Medicine (igem), Temple University, Philadelphia, PA
| | - Nubia E Matta
- Departamento de Biología, Grupo de Investigación Caracterización Genética e Inmunología, Sede Bogotá-Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad Nacional de Colombia, Bogotá, Colombia
| | | | - Patricia G Parker
- Department of Biology, Whitney R. Harris World Ecology Center, University of Missouri-St. Louis, St. Louis, MO
| | - Beatriz Mello
- Department of Biology, Institute for Genomics and Evolutionary Medicine (igem), Temple University, Philadelphia, PA
| | - Craig E Stanley
- Department of Biology, Institute for Genomics and Evolutionary Medicine (igem), Temple University, Philadelphia, PA
| | | | - Maria Alexandra Garcia-Amado
- Laboratorio de Fisiología Gastrointestinal, Centro de Biofísica y Bioquímica, Instituto Venezolano de Investigaciones Científicas (IVIC), Miranda, Venezuela
| | - Michael Cranfield
- Gorilla Doctors, the Wildlife Health Center School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, CA
| | - Sergei L Kosakovsky Pond
- Department of Biology, Institute for Genomics and Evolutionary Medicine (igem), Temple University, Philadelphia, PA
| | - Ananias A Escalante
- Department of Biology, Institute for Genomics and Evolutionary Medicine (igem), Temple University, Philadelphia, PA
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Sivakumar T, Tuvshintulga B, Zhyldyz A, Kothalawala H, Yapa PR, Kanagaratnam R, Vimalakumar SC, Abeysekera TS, Weerasingha AS, Yamagishi J, Igarashi I, Silva SSP, Yokoyama N. Genetic Analysis of Babesia Isolates from Cattle with Clinical Babesiosis in Sri Lanka. J Clin Microbiol 2018; 56:e00895-18. [PMID: 30158190 PMCID: PMC6204690 DOI: 10.1128/jcm.00895-18] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2018] [Accepted: 08/18/2018] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Bovine babesiosis is a serious threat to the cattle industry. We prepared blood DNA samples from 13 cattle with clinical babesiosis from the Badulla (n = 8), Jaffna (n = 3), and Kilinochchi (n = 2) districts in Sri Lanka. These DNA samples tested positive in PCR assays specific for Babesiabovis (n = 9), Babesia bigemina (n = 9), and Babesiaovata (n = 1). Twelve cattle were positive for B. bovis and/or B. bigemina One cow was negative for the tested Babesia species but was positive for Babesia on microscopic examination; the phylogenetic positions of 18S rRNA and cytochrome oxidase subunit III gene sequences suggested that the cow was infected with Babesia sp. Mymensingh, which was recently reported from a healthy cow in Bangladesh. We then developed a novel Babesia sp. Mymensingh-specific PCR assay and obtained positive results for one other sample. Analysis of gene sequences from the cow with positive B. ovata-specific PCR results demonstrated that the animal was infected not with B. ovata but with Babesia sp. Hue-1, which was recently reported from asymptomatic cattle in Vietnam. The virulence of Babesia sp. Hue-1 is unclear, as the cow was coinfected with B. bovis and B. bigemina However, Babesia sp. Mymensingh probably causes severe clinical babesiosis, as it was the sole Babesia species detected in a clinical case. The present study revealed the presence of two bovine Babesia species not previously reported in Sri Lanka, plus the first case of severe bovine babesiosis caused by a Babesia species other than B. bovis, B. bigemina, and Babesiadivergens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thillaiampalam Sivakumar
- National Research Center for Protozoan Diseases, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Hokkaido, Japan
- Veterinary Research Institute, Peradeniya, Sri Lanka
| | - Bumduuren Tuvshintulga
- National Research Center for Protozoan Diseases, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Hokkaido, Japan
| | - Atambekova Zhyldyz
- National Research Center for Protozoan Diseases, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Hokkaido, Japan
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Junya Yamagishi
- Division of Collaboration and Education, Hokkaido University Research Center for Zoonosis Control, Sapporo, Hokkaido, Japan
- Global Station for Zoonosis Control, GI-CoRE, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Hokkaido, Japan
| | - Ikuo Igarashi
- National Research Center for Protozoan Diseases, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Hokkaido, Japan
| | | | - Naoaki Yokoyama
- National Research Center for Protozoan Diseases, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Hokkaido, Japan
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Dos Santos LC, de Oliveira Guimarães L, Grazziotin AL, de Morais W, Cubas ZS, de Oliveira MJ, da Costa Vieira RF, Biondo AW, Kirchgatter K. First molecular screening of Plasmodium species in ungulates from Southern Brazil. BMC Res Notes 2018; 11:536. [PMID: 30064496 PMCID: PMC6069856 DOI: 10.1186/s13104-018-3638-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2018] [Accepted: 07/24/2018] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Despite malaria epidemiology has been extensively studied in primates, few studies were conducted in ungulates. After half a century without descriptions of Plasmodium spp. in deer since its first identification, recent research has rediscovered Plasmodium on ungulates in Africa, Asia, North America and South America, including Central Brazil. Here, a captive herd was evaluated in southern Brazil using light microscopy and PCR. DNA samples were tested for fragment amplification of two Plasmodium spp. genes: mitochondrial cytochrome b and small subunit ribosomal RNA. RESULTS All analyses were negative. However, the tests were performed on samples that were collected at a single time point, and parasitemia may fluctuate over the parasite's life cycle. Thus, the possibility of occult infection cannot be ruled out. Despite the negative results of all of the methods applied, it cannot be categorically stated that these animals are free from Plasmodium sp. infection. Further monitoring and/or multiple sequential sampling may improve the success rate of detecting parasites. Moreover, although this survey of Plasmodium represents the first molecular study on ungulate malaria parasites from Southern Brazil, further analysis of samples from different ungulate species is important for characterizing the epidemiology of Plasmodium of these mammals in this region.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leonilda Correia Dos Santos
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Universidade Federal do Paraná, Curitiba, PR, Brazil.,Engineering and Exact Sciences Center, Universidade Estadual do Oeste do Paraná, Foz Do Iguaçu, PR, 85870-650, Brazil
| | - Lilian de Oliveira Guimarães
- Malaria Research Center, Superintendence for Endemic Disease Control, Institute of Tropical Medicine, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Ana Laura Grazziotin
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - Wanderlei de Morais
- Bela Vista Biological Sanctuary, Itaipu Binational Hydroelectric Power Plant, Foz Do Iguaçu, PR, Brazil
| | - Zalmir Silvino Cubas
- Bela Vista Biological Sanctuary, Itaipu Binational Hydroelectric Power Plant, Foz Do Iguaçu, PR, Brazil
| | - Marcos José de Oliveira
- Bela Vista Biological Sanctuary, Itaipu Binational Hydroelectric Power Plant, Foz Do Iguaçu, PR, Brazil
| | | | | | - Karin Kirchgatter
- Malaria Research Center, Superintendence for Endemic Disease Control, Institute of Tropical Medicine, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brazil.
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Natural History of Plasmodium odocoilei Malaria Infection in Farmed White-Tailed Deer. mSphere 2018; 3:3/2/e00067-18. [PMID: 29669881 PMCID: PMC5907657 DOI: 10.1128/msphere.00067-18] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2018] [Accepted: 03/16/2018] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Malaria parasites of the genus Plasmodium are known to infect a variety of vertebrate hosts, including ungulates (hoofed mammals). A recent study found that up to a quarter of white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) in North America are infected with the parasite Plasmodium odocoilei. In addition to occupying an important ecological niche, white-tailed deer are popular game animals and deer farming represents a rapidly growing industry. However, the effect of P. odocoilei infection in this ecologically and economically important ungulate species is unknown. Our work is significant because (i) we identified a high prevalence of P. odocoilei in farmed deer and (ii) we found evidence for both cleared and persistent infection, as well as an association with decreased survival of young fawns. White-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus), an ecologically and economically important species, are the most widely distributed large animals in North America. A recent study indicated that up to 25% of all white-tailed deer may be infected with Plasmodium odocoilei, a malaria parasite belonging to the distinct clade of ungulate-infecting Plasmodium spp. Because the clinical impact of P. odocoilei on deer health and survival is unknown, we undertook a retrospective longitudinal study of farmed Floridian O. virginianus fawns. We found that a substantial proportion (21%) of fawns acquire malaria infection during the first 8 months of life. Some animals naturally clear P. odocoilei infection, while other animals remain persistently positive. Importantly, we found that animals that acquire malaria parasites very early in life have poor survival compared to animals that remain uninfected. Our report thus provides the first evidence of a clinically significant impact of malaria infection in young deer. IMPORTANCE Malaria parasites of the genus Plasmodium are known to infect a variety of vertebrate hosts, including ungulates (hoofed mammals). A recent study found that up to a quarter of white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) in North America are infected with the parasite Plasmodium odocoilei. In addition to occupying an important ecological niche, white-tailed deer are popular game animals and deer farming represents a rapidly growing industry. However, the effect of P. odocoilei infection in this ecologically and economically important ungulate species is unknown. Our work is significant because (i) we identified a high prevalence of P. odocoilei in farmed deer and (ii) we found evidence for both cleared and persistent infection, as well as an association with decreased survival of young fawns.
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Abstract
A wide array of vertebrates can serve as the intermediate hosts to malaria parasites (Apicomplexa: Haemosporida), such as birds, lizards, and several groups of mammals, including primates, bats, rodents, and ungulates. The latter group of hosts has not been intensively studied since early descriptions of a small set of taxa were published, but new reports of these parasites in both expected and new hosts have recently been published. A wide array of vertebrates can serve as the intermediate hosts to malaria parasites (Apicomplexa: Haemosporida), such as birds, lizards, and several groups of mammals, including primates, bats, rodents, and ungulates. The latter group of hosts has not been intensively studied since early descriptions of a small set of taxa were published, but new reports of these parasites in both expected and new hosts have recently been published. A new paper reports the presence of Plasmodium odocoilei in farmed white-tailed deer in Florida, particularly in animals less than 1 year old, and provides evidence that the parasites may contribute to mortality in fawns. That paper opens new opportunities to study the malaria parasite-mammal interface in North America.
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Genetic homogeneity of goat malaria parasites in Asia and Africa suggests their expansion with domestic goat host. Sci Rep 2018; 8:5827. [PMID: 29643434 PMCID: PMC5895593 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-24048-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2017] [Accepted: 03/26/2018] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Plasmodium was first identified in a goat in Angola in 1923, and only recently characterized by DNA isolation from a goat blood sample in Zambia. Goats were first domesticated in the Fertile Crescent approximately 10,000 years ago, and are now globally distributed. It is not known if the Plasmodium identified in African goats originated from parasites circulating in the local ungulates, or if it co-evolved in the goat before its domestication. To address this question, we performed PCR-based surveillance using a total of 1,299 goat blood samples collected from Sudan and Kenya in Africa, Iran in west Asia, and Myanmar and Thailand in southeast Asia. Plasmodium DNA was detected from all locations, suggesting that the parasite is not limited to Africa, but widely distributed. Whole mitochondrial DNA sequences revealed that there was only one nucleotide substitution between Zambian/Kenyan samples and others, supporting the existence of a goat-specific Plasmodium species, presumably Plasmodium caprae, rather than infection of goats by local ungulate malaria parasites. We also present the first photographic images of P. caprae, from one Kenyan goat sample.
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Close relationship of Plasmodium sequences detected from South American pampas deer ( Ozotoceros bezoarticus) to Plasmodium spp. in North American white-tailed deer. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL FOR PARASITOLOGY-PARASITES AND WILDLIFE 2018; 7:44-47. [PMID: 29845014 PMCID: PMC5963126 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijppaw.2018.01.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2017] [Revised: 01/01/2018] [Accepted: 01/03/2018] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
We report, for the first time, the presence of ungulate malaria parasites in South America. We conducted PCR-based surveys of blood samples of multiple deer species and water buffalo from Brazil and detected Plasmodium sequences from pampas deer (Ozotoceros bezoarticus) samples. Phylogenic analysis revealed that the obtained sequences are closely related to the Plasmodium odocoilei clade 2 sequence from North American white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus). Nucleotide differences suggest that malaria parasites in South American pampas deer and North American P. odocoilei clade 2 branched more recently than the Great American Interchange. Plasmodium sequence was detected from pampas deer in South America. It was most similar to the North American Plasmodium odocoilei clade 2 sequence. Estimated divergence time was much more recent than the Great American Interchange.
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Yurayart N, Kaewthamasorn M, Tiawsirisup S. Vector competence of Aedes albopictus (Skuse) and Aedes aegypti (Linnaeus) for Plasmodium gallinaceum infection and transmission. Vet Parasitol 2017; 241:20-25. [DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2017.05.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2016] [Revised: 05/03/2017] [Accepted: 05/06/2017] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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Artesunate-tafenoquine combination therapy promotes clearance and abrogates transmission of the avian malaria parasite Plasmodium gallinaceum. Vet Parasitol 2017; 233:97-106. [DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2016.12.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2016] [Revised: 12/02/2016] [Accepted: 12/12/2016] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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Abstract
SUMMARYOver a hundred years since their first description in 1913, the sparsely described malaria parasites (genus Plasmodium) of ungulates have been rediscovered using molecular typing techniques. In the span of weeks, three studies have appeared describing the genetic characterization and phylogenetic analyses of malaria parasites from African antelope (Cephalophus spp.) and goat (Capra aegagrus hircus), Asian water buffalo (Bubalus bubalis), and North American white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus). Here we unify the contributions from those studies with the literature on pre-molecular characterizations of ungulate malaria parasites, which are largely based on surveys of Giemsa-reagent stained blood smears. We present a phylogenetic tree generated from all available ungulate malaria parasite sequence data, and show that parasites from African duiker antelope and goat, Asian water buffalo and New World white-tailed deer group together in a clade, which branches early in Plasmodium evolution. Anopheline mosquitoes appear to be the dominant, if not sole vectors for parasite transmission. We pose questions for future phylogenetic studies, and discuss topics that we hope will spur further molecular and cellular studies of ungulate malaria parasites.
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Kasetsirikul S, Buranapong J, Srituravanich W, Kaewthamasorn M, Pimpin A. The development of malaria diagnostic techniques: a review of the approaches with focus on dielectrophoretic and magnetophoretic methods. Malar J 2016; 15:358. [PMID: 27405995 PMCID: PMC4942956 DOI: 10.1186/s12936-016-1400-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2016] [Accepted: 06/17/2016] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
The large number of deaths caused by malaria each year has increased interest in the development of effective malaria diagnoses. At the early-stage of infection, patients show non-specific symptoms or are asymptomatic, which makes it difficult for clinical diagnosis, especially in non-endemic areas. Alternative diagnostic methods that are timely and effective are required to identify infections, particularly in field settings. This article reviews conventional malaria diagnostic methods together with recently developed techniques for both malaria detection and infected erythrocyte separation. Although many alternative techniques have recently been proposed and studied, dielectrophoretic and magnetophoretic approaches are among the promising new techniques due to their high specificity for malaria parasite-infected red blood cells. The two approaches are discussed in detail, including their principles, types, applications and limitations. In addition, other recently developed techniques, such as cell deformability and morphology, are also overviewed in this article.
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Affiliation(s)
- Surasak Kasetsirikul
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, 10330, Thailand
| | - Jirayut Buranapong
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, 10330, Thailand
| | - Werayut Srituravanich
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, 10330, Thailand
| | - Morakot Kaewthamasorn
- Animal Vector-Borne Diseases Research Group, The Veterinary Parasitology Unit, Department of Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, 10330, Thailand
| | - Alongkorn Pimpin
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, 10330, Thailand.
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