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Klimov PB, He Q. Predicting host range expansion in parasitic mites using a global mammalian-acarine dataset. Nat Commun 2024; 15:5431. [PMID: 38926409 PMCID: PMC11208579 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-49515-3] [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: 07/28/2023] [Accepted: 06/07/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Multi-host parasites pose greater health risks to wildlife, livestock, and humans than single-host parasites, yet our understanding of how ecological and biological factors influence a parasite's host range remains limited. Here, we assemble the largest and most complete dataset on permanently parasitic mammalian mites and build a predictive model assessing the probability of single-host parasites to become multi-hosts, while accounting for potentially unobserved host-parasite links and class imbalance. This model identifies statistically significant predictors related to parasites, hosts, climate, and habitat disturbance. The most important predictors include the parasite's contact level with the host immune system and two variables characterizing host phylogenetic similarity and spatial co-distribution. Our model reveals an overrepresentation of mites associated with Rodentia (rodents), Chiroptera (bats), and Carnivora in the multi-host risk group. This highlights both the potential vulnerability of these hosts to parasitic infestations and the risk of serving as reservoirs of parasites for new hosts. In addition, we find independent macroevolutionary evidence that supports our prediction of several single-host species of Notoedres, the bat skin parasites, to be in the multi-host risk group, demonstrating the forecasting potential of our model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pavel B Klimov
- Lilly Hall of Life Sciences, Purdue University, 915 Mitch Daniels Blvd, West Lafayette, Indiana, 47907, USA.
| | - Qixin He
- Lilly Hall of Life Sciences, Purdue University, 915 Mitch Daniels Blvd, West Lafayette, Indiana, 47907, USA.
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2
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Tokiwa T, Ueda K, Watanabe N, Chou S, Ozaki K. A new species of Demodex (Acari: Demodecidae) from the skin of golden-handed tamarins, Saguinus midas (Primates: Cebidae). Int J Parasitol Parasites Wildl 2024; 23:100920. [PMID: 38487812 PMCID: PMC10937822 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijppaw.2024.100920] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2024] [Revised: 03/01/2024] [Accepted: 03/01/2024] [Indexed: 03/17/2024]
Abstract
Two captive-bred golden-handed tamarins, Saguinus midas L., 1758 (Primates: Cebidae), kept in households in Japan, presented with psoriasis-like plaques on their faces, along with scale, alopecia, and itching. Histopathological examination revealed numerous Demodex mites in the hair follicles, and the clinical symptoms in both cases improved after treatment with fluralaner. Based on the morphological and genetic characteristics of the mites collected from tamarins, we describe a new species of Demodex. This new species is the fifth valid Demodex species recorded from primates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Toshihiro Tokiwa
- Laboratory of Veterinary Parasitology, Nippon Veterinary and Life Science University, 1-7-1 Kyonancho, Musashino, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kengo Ueda
- Vogel Animal Hospital, 5-1-1 Kotoku-cho, Nada, Kobe, Hyogo, Japan
- Laboratory of Pathology, Setsunan University, 45-1 Nagaotoge-cho, Hirakata, Osaka, Japan
| | - Nagi Watanabe
- Laboratory of Veterinary Parasitology, Nippon Veterinary and Life Science University, 1-7-1 Kyonancho, Musashino, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Shyun Chou
- Laboratory of Veterinary Parasitology, Nippon Veterinary and Life Science University, 1-7-1 Kyonancho, Musashino, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kiyokazu Ozaki
- Laboratory of Pathology, Setsunan University, 45-1 Nagaotoge-cho, Hirakata, Osaka, Japan
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3
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Smith M, Wolffsohn JS, Chiang JCB. Topical ivermectin 1.0% cream in the treatment of ocular demodicosis. Cont Lens Anterior Eye 2024; 47:102099. [PMID: 38049351 DOI: 10.1016/j.clae.2023.102099] [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: 09/26/2023] [Revised: 11/27/2023] [Accepted: 11/27/2023] [Indexed: 12/06/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Ocular demodicosis can cause debilitating ocular surface disease. As ivermectin is effective at reducing Demodex proliferation in rosacea, this study investigated the efficacy of topical ivermectin 1.0% cream in treating ocular demodicosis. METHODS This retrospective single-centre clinical practice chart analysis involved the off-label treatment of patients who had ocular demodicosis with topical ivermectin 1.0 % cream (Soolantra, Galderma Ltd, UK) applied nightly to the lid margins of both eyes for 3 months. Ocular surface health was assessed at baseline when the treatment was prescribed and followed up at 3 and 12 months after baseline. Slit lamp biomicroscopy was used to take digital images of the upper eyelid lashes. Manual image analysis with ImageJ was conducted by a masked assessor to quantify signs of ocular demodicosis including the number of lashes with collarettes, with visible Demodex tails and with follicle pouting. RESULTS Data from a total of 75 patients with ocular demodicosis were analysed for this study (mean age 66.6 ± 13.9 years, 44 female). The numbers of lashes with collarettes (Median [Interquartile range]: 8 [4-13] at baseline to 0 [0-2] at the final visit, p < 0.001) and lashes with follicle pouting (3 [1-5] at baseline to 0 [0-1.8] at the final visit, p < 0.001) decreased with treatment. Any sign of lashes with visible tails was eliminated by the final visit (p < 0.007). Fluorescein staining severity score also improved, particularly from baseline (1 [0-2]) to the second visit (0 [0-1], p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS The findings of this study show evidence for the efficacy of a 3-month course of topical ivermectin 1.0% cream in treating ocular demodicosis as indicated by reduction in collarettes, follicle pouting and visible Demodex tails. More research is warranted to improve the diagnosis, management and monitoring of this condition which is often overlooked or misdiagnosed.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - James S Wolffsohn
- School of Optometry, College of Health and Life Sciences, Aston University, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Jeremy Chung Bo Chiang
- School of Optometry, College of Health and Life Sciences, Aston University, Birmingham, United Kingdom; School of Optometry and Vision Science, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia.
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4
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Liao F, Han C, Deng Q, Zhou Z, Bao T, Zhong M, Tao G, Li R, Han B, Qiao Y, Hu Y. Natural Products as Mite Control Agents in Animals: A Review. Molecules 2023; 28:6818. [PMID: 37836661 PMCID: PMC10574536 DOI: 10.3390/molecules28196818] [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: 08/25/2023] [Revised: 09/19/2023] [Accepted: 09/25/2023] [Indexed: 10/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Mites have been a persistent infectious disease affecting both humans and animals since ancient times. In veterinary clinics, the primary approach for treating and managing mite infestations has long been the use of chemical acaricides. However, the widespread use of these chemicals has resulted in significant problems, including drug resistance, drug residues, and environmental pollution, limiting their effectiveness. To address these challenges, researchers have shifted their focus towards natural products that have shown promise both in the laboratory and real-world settings against mite infestations. Natural products have a wide variety of chemical structures and biological activities, including acaricidal properties. This article offers a comprehensive review of the acaricidal capabilities and mechanisms of action of natural products like plant extracts, natural compounds, algae, and microbial metabolites against common animal mites.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fei Liao
- Department of Animal Husbandry and Fisheries, Guizhou Vocational College of Agriculture, Qingzhen 551400, China; (F.L.); (C.H.); (Q.D.); (M.Z.); (G.T.); (R.L.); (B.H.)
- Key Laboratory of Animal Disease and Human Health of Sichuan Province, College of Veterinary Medicine, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China;
| | - Changquan Han
- Department of Animal Husbandry and Fisheries, Guizhou Vocational College of Agriculture, Qingzhen 551400, China; (F.L.); (C.H.); (Q.D.); (M.Z.); (G.T.); (R.L.); (B.H.)
| | - Qingsheng Deng
- Department of Animal Husbandry and Fisheries, Guizhou Vocational College of Agriculture, Qingzhen 551400, China; (F.L.); (C.H.); (Q.D.); (M.Z.); (G.T.); (R.L.); (B.H.)
| | - Ziyao Zhou
- Key Laboratory of Animal Disease and Human Health of Sichuan Province, College of Veterinary Medicine, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China;
| | - Taotao Bao
- Qiandongnan Center for Animal Disease Control and Prevention, Kaili 556000, China;
| | - Menghuai Zhong
- Department of Animal Husbandry and Fisheries, Guizhou Vocational College of Agriculture, Qingzhen 551400, China; (F.L.); (C.H.); (Q.D.); (M.Z.); (G.T.); (R.L.); (B.H.)
| | - Guangyao Tao
- Department of Animal Husbandry and Fisheries, Guizhou Vocational College of Agriculture, Qingzhen 551400, China; (F.L.); (C.H.); (Q.D.); (M.Z.); (G.T.); (R.L.); (B.H.)
| | - Renjun Li
- Department of Animal Husbandry and Fisheries, Guizhou Vocational College of Agriculture, Qingzhen 551400, China; (F.L.); (C.H.); (Q.D.); (M.Z.); (G.T.); (R.L.); (B.H.)
| | - Bo Han
- Department of Animal Husbandry and Fisheries, Guizhou Vocational College of Agriculture, Qingzhen 551400, China; (F.L.); (C.H.); (Q.D.); (M.Z.); (G.T.); (R.L.); (B.H.)
| | - Yanlong Qiao
- Department of Animal Husbandry and Fisheries, Guizhou Vocational College of Agriculture, Qingzhen 551400, China; (F.L.); (C.H.); (Q.D.); (M.Z.); (G.T.); (R.L.); (B.H.)
| | - Yanchun Hu
- Key Laboratory of Animal Disease and Human Health of Sichuan Province, College of Veterinary Medicine, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China;
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Ricardo-Gonzalez RR, Kotas ME, O'Leary CE, Singh K, Damsky W, Liao C, Arouge E, Tenvooren I, Marquez DM, Schroeder AW, Cohen JN, Fassett MS, Lee J, Daniel SG, Bittinger K, Díaz RE, Fraser JS, Ali N, Ansel KM, Spitzer MH, Liang HE, Locksley RM. Innate type 2 immunity controls hair follicle commensalism by Demodex mites. Immunity 2022; 55:1891-1908.e12. [PMID: 36044899 PMCID: PMC9561030 DOI: 10.1016/j.immuni.2022.08.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2022] [Revised: 06/27/2022] [Accepted: 08/02/2022] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Demodex mites are commensal parasites of hair follicles (HFs). Normally asymptomatic, inflammatory outgrowth of mites can accompany malnutrition, immune dysfunction, and aging, but mechanisms restricting Demodex outgrowth are not defined. Here, we show that control of mite HF colonization in mice required group 2 innate lymphoid cells (ILC2s), interleukin-13 (IL-13), and its receptor, IL-4Ra-IL-13Ra1. HF-associated ILC2s elaborated IL-13 that attenuated HFs and epithelial proliferation at anagen onset; in their absence, Demodex colonization led to increased epithelial proliferation and replacement of gene programs for repair by aberrant inflammation, leading to the loss of barrier function and HF exhaustion. Humans with rhinophymatous acne rosacea, an inflammatory condition associated with Demodex, had increased HF inflammation with decreased type 2 cytokines, consistent with the inverse relationship seen in mice. Our studies uncover a key role for skin ILC2s and IL-13, which comprise an immune checkpoint that sustains cutaneous integrity and restricts pathologic infestation by colonizing HF mites.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberto R Ricardo-Gonzalez
- Department of Dermatology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA; Department of Microbiology & Immunology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA; Chan Zuckerberg Biohub, San Francisco, CA, USA.
| | - Maya E Kotas
- Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Claire E O'Leary
- Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Katelyn Singh
- Department of Dermatology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - William Damsky
- Department of Dermatology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA; Department of Pathology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Chang Liao
- Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Elizabeth Arouge
- Department of Dermatology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Iliana Tenvooren
- Department of Otolaryngology and Microbiology & Immunology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Diana M Marquez
- Department of Otolaryngology and Microbiology & Immunology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Andrew W Schroeder
- Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Jarish N Cohen
- Department of Pathology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Marlys S Fassett
- Department of Dermatology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA; Department of Microbiology & Immunology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Jinwoo Lee
- Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Scott G Daniel
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition, The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Kyle Bittinger
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition, The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Roberto Efraín Díaz
- Department of Bioengineering and Therapeutic Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA; Tetrad Graduate Program, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - James S Fraser
- Department of Bioengineering and Therapeutic Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Niwa Ali
- Department of Dermatology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - K Mark Ansel
- Department of Microbiology & Immunology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Matthew H Spitzer
- Department of Otolaryngology and Microbiology & Immunology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA; Parker Institute for Cancer Immunotherapy, San Francisco, CA, USA; Chan Zuckerberg Biohub, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Hong-Erh Liang
- Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Richard M Locksley
- Department of Microbiology & Immunology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA; Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA; Howard Hughes Medical Institute, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA.
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6
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The Acari Hypothesis, III: Atopic Dermatitis. Pathogens 2022; 11:pathogens11101083. [DOI: 10.3390/pathogens11101083] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2022] [Revised: 09/12/2022] [Accepted: 09/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Atopic dermatitis is a chronic relapsing dermatopathology involving IgE against allergenic materials present on mammalian epithelial surfaces. Allergens are as diverse as pet danders, and polypeptides expressed by microbes of the mammalian microbiome, e.g., Malassezia spp. The Acari Hypothesis posits that the mammalian innate immune system utilizes pathogen-bound acarian immune effectors to protect against the vectorial threat posed by mites and ticks. Per The Hypothesis, IgE-mediated allergic disease is a specious consequence of the pairing of acarian gastrointestinal materials, e.g., allergenic foodstuffs, with acarian innate immune effectors that have interspecies operability. In keeping with The Hypothesis, the IgE profile of atopic patients should include both anti-acarian antibodies and specious antibodies responsible for specific allergy. Further, the profile should inform on the diet and/or environment of the acarian vector. In this regard, the prevalence of Demodex and Dermatophagoides on the skin of persons suffering from atopic dermatitis is increased. Importantly, the diets of these mites correspond well with the allergens of affected patients. In this report, roles for these specific acarians in the pathogenesis of atopic dermatitis are proposed and elaborated.
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7
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Maldonado-Gómez W, Guevara-Sánchez E, Guevara-Vásquez G, Mera-Villasis K, Munayco C. [Translated article] Association Between Demodex Infestation and Severe Acne Vulgaris: A Cross-Sectional Study of 168 Patients. ACTAS DERMO-SIFILIOGRAFICAS 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ad.2022.03.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
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8
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Asociación entre la infestación por el Demodex sp. y el acné vulgar grave. Estudio transversal de 168 pacientes. ACTAS DERMO-SIFILIOGRAFICAS 2022; 113:758-764. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ad.2022.03.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2021] [Revised: 03/22/2022] [Accepted: 03/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
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9
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Smith G, Manzano-Marín A, Reyes-Prieto M, Antunes CSR, Ashworth V, Goselle ON, Jan AAA, Moya A, Latorre A, Perotti MA, Braig HR. Human follicular mites: Ectoparasites becoming symbionts. Mol Biol Evol 2022; 39:msac125. [PMID: 35724423 PMCID: PMC9218549 DOI: 10.1093/molbev/msac125] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2021] [Revised: 05/23/2022] [Accepted: 05/31/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Most humans carry mites in the hair follicles of their skin for their entire lives. Follicular mites are the only metazoans tha continuously live on humans. We propose that Demodex folliculorum (Acari) represents a transitional stage from a host-injuring obligate parasite to an obligate symbiont. Here, we describe the profound impact of this transition on the genome and physiology of the mite. Genome sequencing revealed that the permanent host association of D. folliculorum led to an extensive genome reduction through relaxed selection and genetic drift, resulting in the smallest number of protein-coding genes yet identified among panarthropods. Confocal microscopy revealed that this gene loss coincided with an extreme reduction in the number of cells. Single uninucleate muscle cells are sufficient to operate each of the three segments that form each walking leg. While it has been assumed that the reduction of the cell number in parasites starts early in development, we identified a greater total number of cells in the last developmental stage (nymph) than in the terminal adult stage, suggesting that reduction starts at the adult or ultimate stage of development. This is the first evolutionary step in an arthropod species adopting a reductive, parasitic or endosymbiotic lifestyle. Somatic nuclei show underreplication at the diploid stage. Novel eye structures or photoreceptors as well as a unique human host melatonin-guided day/night rhythm are proposed for the first time. The loss of DNA repair genes coupled with extreme endogamy might have set this mite species on an evolutionary dead-end trajectory.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gilbert Smith
- School of Natural Sciences, Bangor University, Bangor, Wales, United Kingdom
| | - Alejandro Manzano-Marín
- Centre for Microbiology and Environmental Systems Science (CMESS), University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Mariana Reyes-Prieto
- Institute of Integrative Systems Biology (I2Sysbio), Universitat de València and Spanish Research Council (CSIC), València, Spain
- Foundation for the Promotion of Health and Biomedical Research of the Valencian Community (FISABIO), València, Spain
| | | | - Victoria Ashworth
- School of Natural Sciences, Bangor University, Bangor, Wales, United Kingdom
| | - Obed Nanjul Goselle
- School of Natural Sciences, Bangor University, Bangor, Wales, United Kingdom
| | | | - Andrés Moya
- Institute of Integrative Systems Biology (I2Sysbio), Universitat de València and Spanish Research Council (CSIC), València, Spain
- Foundation for the Promotion of Health and Biomedical Research of the Valencian Community (FISABIO), València, Spain
- Center for Networked Biomedical Research in Epidemiology and Public Health (CIBEResp), Madrid, Spain
| | - Amparo Latorre
- Institute of Integrative Systems Biology (I2Sysbio), Universitat de València and Spanish Research Council (CSIC), València, Spain
- Foundation for the Promotion of Health and Biomedical Research of the Valencian Community (FISABIO), València, Spain
- Center for Networked Biomedical Research in Epidemiology and Public Health (CIBEResp), Madrid, Spain
| | - M Alejandra Perotti
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Reading, Reading, United Kingdom
| | - Henk R Braig
- School of Natural Sciences, Bangor University, Bangor, Wales, United Kingdom
- Institute and Museum of Natural Sciences, National University of San Juan, San Juan, Argentina
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10
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Helm CJ. Treatment of ocular Demodex infestation with topical ivermectin cream. Am J Ophthalmol Case Rep 2022; 26:101551. [PMID: 35509284 PMCID: PMC9058595 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajoc.2022.101551] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2021] [Revised: 04/05/2022] [Accepted: 04/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose To evaluate the use of ivermectin 1% cream for the treatment of sleeves associated with Demodex blepharitis. Observations A retrospective chart review was conducted on patients with moderate to dense sleeves secondary to Demodex folliculorum, who were treated with one or two applications of topical ivermectin 1% cream. Those who had been documented photographically pre- and post-treatment were evaluated. In this series of 5 cases, ivermectin 1% cream was highly effective in reducing or eliminating sleeves, which is the primary clinical sign of D. folliculorum infestation of the eyelids. Conclusions and Importance A single or double application of ivermectin 1% cream is well tolerated and highly effective in reducing or eliminating the characteristic sleeves associated with Demodex blepharitis. The use of ivermectin 1% cream merits further investigation.
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11
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Nazarizadeh M, Martinů J, Nováková M, Stanko M, Štefka J. Phylogeography of the parasitic mite Laelaps agilis in Western Palearctic shows lineages lacking host specificity but possessing different demographic histories. BMC ZOOL 2022; 7:15. [PMID: 37170127 PMCID: PMC10127304 DOI: 10.1186/s40850-022-00115-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2021] [Accepted: 03/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Background
Laelaps agilis C.L. Koch, 1836 is one the most abundant and widespread parasitic mite species in the Western Palearctic. It is a permanent ectoparasite associated with the Apodemus genus, which transmits Hepatozoon species via the host’s blood. Phylogenetic relationships, genealogy and host specificity of the mite are uncertain in the Western Palearctic. Here, we investigated the population genetic structure of 132 individual mites across Europe from their Apodemus and Clethrionomys hosts. Phylogenetic relationships and genetic variation of the populations were analyzed using cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) gene sequences.
Results
We recovered three main mtDNA lineages within L. agilis in the Western Palearctic, which differentiated between 1.02 and 1.79 million years ago during the Pleistocene period: (i) Lineage A, including structured populations from Western Europe and the Czech Republic, (ii) Lineage B, which included only a few individuals from Greece and the Czech Republic; and (iii) Lineage C, which comprised admixed populations from Western and Eastern Europe. Contrary to their population genetic differentiation, the lineages did not show signs of specificity to different hosts. Finally, we confirmed that the sympatric congener L. clethrionomydis is represented by a separated monophyletic lineage.
Conclusion
Differences in the depth of population structure between L. agilis Lineages A and C, corroborated by the neutrality tests and demographic history analyses, suggested a stable population size in the structured Lineage A and a rapid range expansion for the geographically admixed Lineage C. We hypothesized that the two lineages were associated with hosts experiencing different glaciation histories. The lack of host specificity in L. agilis lineages was in contrast to the co-occurring highly host-specific lineages of Polyplax serrata lice, sharing Apodemus hosts. The incongruence was attributed to the differences in mobility between the parasites, allowing mites to switch hosts more often.
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Dunn RR, Burger JR, Carlen EJ, Koltz AM, Light JE, Martin RA, Munshi-South J, Nichols LM, Vargo EL, Yitbarek S, Zhao Y, Cibrián-Jaramillo A. A Theory of City Biogeography and the Origin of Urban Species. FRONTIERS IN CONSERVATION SCIENCE 2022. [DOI: 10.3389/fcosc.2022.761449] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Many of the choices humans make with regard to infrastructure, urban planning and other phenomena have impacts that will last thousands of years. This can readily be seen in modern cities in which contemporary streets run along street grids that were laid out thousands of years prior or even in which ancient viaducts still play a role. However, rarely do evolutionary biologists explicitly consider the future of life likely to be associated with the decisions we are making today. Here, we consider the evolutionary future of species in cities with a focus on the origin of lineages and species. We do so by adjusting evolutionary predictions from the theory of island biogeography so as to correspond to the unique features of cities as islands. Specifically, the species endemic to cities tend to be associated with the gray habitats in cities. Those habitats tend to be dominated by human bodies, pet bodies and stored food. It is among such species where the origin of new lineages is most likely, although most research on evolution in cities has focused on green habitats. We conclude by considering a range of scenarios for the far future and their implications for the origin of lineages and species.
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13
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Update on the Management and Treatment of Demodex Blepharitis. Cornea 2021; 41:934-939. [PMID: 34743107 DOI: 10.1097/ico.0000000000002911] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2021] [Accepted: 09/12/2021] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
ABSTRACT Demodex blepharitis is a common ophthalmologic disease that is often overlooked in the workup of blepharitis. Demodex infestation occurs in both symptomatic and asymptomatic individuals at similar rates; consequently, its role in the development of blepharitis has not been well elucidated. Two species have been confirmed to inhabit the human eyelid-Demodex folliculorum and Demodex brevis. These species differ in their preferred location of infestation, with D. folliculorum occupying the base of the eyelash and D. brevis inhabiting the meibomian glands, contributing to anterior and posterior Demodex blepharitis, respectively. A clinical index of suspicion must be developed from the history when blepharitis, conjunctivitis, or keratitis in adults and blepharoconjunctivitis or chalazia in children are resistant to treatment. The diagnosis can be strongly suspected by the presence of cylindrical dandruff at the base of the eyelash and confirmed by light microscopy of an epilated lash or by in vivo confocal microscopy. No cure is currently available. Management most frequently includes topical tea tree oil and its active ingredient terpinen-4-ol, both of which have produced good clinical outcomes. Topical tea tree oil is typically applied by a professional due to risk of toxicity. Several second-line treatment options have been studied, including ivermectin, metronidazole, selenium sulfide, microblepharoexfoliation, and lid hygiene. Novel, targeted therapies such as TP-03 (Tarsus Pharmaceuticals) are also currently being investigated in phase 2b/3 clinical trials. The purpose of this review purpose is to characterize Demodex blepharitis in detail, including its historical perspective and various classifications, and describe the latest diagnostic and management strategies.
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Abstract
Understanding variation in host-associated microbial communities is important given the relevance of microbiomes to host physiology and health. Using 560 fecal samples collected from wild chimpanzees (Pan troglodytes) across their range, we assessed how geography, genetics, climate, vegetation, and diet relate to gut microbial community structure (prokaryotes, eukaryotic parasites) at multiple spatial scales. We observed a high degree of regional specificity in the microbiome composition, which was associated with host genetics, available plant foods, and potentially with cultural differences in tool use, which affect diet. Genetic differences drove community composition at large scales, while vegetation and potentially tool use drove within-region differences, likely due to their influence on diet. Unlike industrialized human populations in the United States, where regional differences in the gut microbiome are undetectable, chimpanzee gut microbiomes are far more variable across space, suggesting that technological developments have decoupled humans from their local environments, obscuring regional differences that could have been important during human evolution. IMPORTANCE Gut microbial communities are drivers of primate physiology and health, but the factors that influence the gut microbiome in wild primate populations remain largely undetermined. We report data from a continent-wide survey of wild chimpanzee gut microbiota and highlight the effects of genetics, vegetation, and potentially even tool use at different spatial scales on the chimpanzee gut microbiome, including bacteria, archaea, and eukaryotic parasites. Microbial community dissimilarity was strongly correlated with chimpanzee population genetic dissimilarity, and vegetation composition and consumption of algae, honey, nuts, and termites were potentially associated with additional divergence in microbial communities between sampling sites. Our results suggest that host genetics, geography, and climate play a far stronger role in structuring the gut microbiome in chimpanzees than in humans.
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Shared Makeup Cosmetics as a Route of Demodex folliculorum Infections. Acta Parasitol 2021; 66:631-637. [PMID: 33462683 PMCID: PMC8166727 DOI: 10.1007/s11686-020-00332-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2020] [Accepted: 12/19/2020] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Purpose The aim of the study was to examine Demodex survival in makeup cosmetics, i.e., powder cream, mascara, and lipstick, and to determine whether cosmetics shared with others can be a source of D. folliculorum infection. Methods Live D. folliculorum adults were placed in cosmetic samples and their motility was observed under a microscope. The mites were fully or partially immersed in the powder cream and lipstick, and only partially immersed in the mascara. Partial immersion means that only the opisthosoma was covered by the cosmetic, whereas the gnathosoma and podosoma had no contact with the cosmetic. Cessation of motility was regarded as a sign of death. Results In the control (mites placed on a microscope slide with no cosmetics), the survival time was 41.2 h. D. folliculorum that were immersed fully or partially in the lipstick substrate were viable for 38.5 h and 148 h, respectively. The survival time of the mites at full and partial immersion in the powder cream was 0.78 h and 2.16 h, respectively. The average survival time in the mascara was 21 h. Conclusions Makeup cosmetics used by different individuals at short intervals (from several hours to several days) can be a source of transmission of Demodex sp. mites. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s11686-020-00332-w.
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Forton FMN, De Maertelaer V. Which factors influence Demodex proliferation? A retrospective pilot study highlighting a possible role of subtle immune variations and sebaceous gland status. J Dermatol 2021; 48:1210-1220. [PMID: 33969532 DOI: 10.1111/1346-8138.15910] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2021] [Accepted: 03/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Demodex folliculorum and brevis are commensal mites that live in low densities in human pilosebaceous follicles as part of the normal adult microbiota, but that give rise to demodicosis and, possibly, rosacea, when they proliferate excessively. This proliferation is favored by various factors, including age, marked immunosuppression, sebaceous gland hyperplasia, and hypervascularization-related factors. To study possible factors influencing mite proliferation, we explored the effects of different variables on Demodex densities (Dd) in a retrospective study of two groups of subjects selected on the basis of their clinical diagnosis: Demodex+, consisting of subjects with demodicosis or with centro-facial papulopustules suggesting rosacea (n = 844, mean Dd 263.5 ± 8.9 D/cm2 ), and Demodex-, consisting of subjects with other facial dermatoses or healthy facial skin (n = 200, mean Dd 2.3 ± 0.4 D/cm2 ). Demodex densities were measured using two consecutive standardized skin surface biopsies (SSSB1 [superficial] and SSSB2 [deep]) taken from the same facial site on each subject. In the Demodex+ group: the SSSB1 decreased with age in women (p = 0.004), and the SSSB2 increased with age in men (p = 0.001) (the pattern was similar for SSSB1 + 2, but not statistically significant); Dds were lower in those who had received cortisone (either topically or systemically); 13 subjects (1.5%) had known immunosuppression, 62 (7.3%) had hypothyroidism, and in 20 (3.6% of the women) there was a reported link with pregnancy; 78 of the subjects (9.2%) were part of a pair from the same family or household; when associated bacterial infection was suspected, Staphylococcus epidermidis was often isolated. Our results suggest close interactions between the mite, sebaceous gland size and function, and subtle variations of immune status. Potential factors influencing Demodex proliferation should be further investigated, including hypothyroidism, pregnancy, corticosteroid administration, Staphylococcus epidermidis, contagiousity, and genetic background.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Viviane De Maertelaer
- Institut de Recherche Interdisciplinaire en Biologie humaine et moléculaire (IRIBHM), Université libre de Bruxelles (ULB), Brussels, Belgium
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Martínez-Pulgarín DF, Ávila MY, Rodríguez-Morales AJ. Interventions for Demodex blepharitis and their effectiveness: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Cont Lens Anterior Eye 2021; 44:101453. [PMID: 33972176 DOI: 10.1016/j.clae.2021.101453] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2020] [Revised: 04/23/2021] [Accepted: 04/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE A systematic review and meta-analysis was performed to evaluate the effectiveness of interventions in the treatment ofDemodex blepharitis in adult patients. METHODS A systematic review and meta-analysis of studies reporting the efficacy of treatments forDemodex blepharitis in the main databases (PubMed / Scopus / Cochrane / EMBASE / Science Direct / WOS / Scielo / Google Scholar / metaRegister of Controlled Trials / ClinicalTrials.gov/ WHO ICTRP) until November 24, 2020 was performed according to the PRISMA statement for meta-analysis. RESULTS Overall, 18 studies were included for 29 different interventions in 1195 participants with 1574 eyes that were positive for Demodex Spp. Demodex counts, total eradication, clinical improvement, Ocular Surface Disease Index, Tear Break-Up Time, cylindrical dandruff, Schirmer test, osmolarity and adverse reactions were analysed, and stratified sub-analyses conducted. The overall effects for Demodex count (mean difference), total eradication (risk ratio) and adverse reactions (risk difference) were -2.07 (95 % CI -3.99 to -0.15) p = 0.03, 1.84 (95 % CI 1.27-2.66) p = 0.001 and 0.24 (95 % CI 0.08 to 0.41) p = 0.005, respectively. The most frequent interventions evaluated in the included studies were tea tree oil (TTO) and its derivatives, such as terpinen 4-ol. CONCLUSION Multiple therapeutic choices were evaluated in this meta-analysis. Pharmacological interventions were superior to non-pharmacological (mechanical, thermal and pulsed light) interventions. It was not possible to establish significant differences between TTO and non-TTO-derived treatments. Adverse reactions were more frequent in TTO-derived treatments, however all were mild. It is necessary to execute studies with longer follow-up times to determine whether re-infestation occurs after the administration of different treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dayron F Martínez-Pulgarín
- Department of Ophthalmology, School of Medicine, Universidad Nacional de Colombia, Bogotá, Colombia; Basic and Clinic Ophthalmology Research Group, School of Medicine, Universidad Nacional de Colombia, Bogotá, Colombia.
| | - Marcel Y Ávila
- Department of Ophthalmology, School of Medicine, Universidad Nacional de Colombia, Bogotá, Colombia; Basic and Clinic Ophthalmology Research Group, School of Medicine, Universidad Nacional de Colombia, Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Alfonso J Rodríguez-Morales
- Grupo de Investigación Biomedicina, Faculty of Medicine, Fundacion Universitaria Autonoma de las Americas, Pereira, Risaralda, Colombia
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Nematode epibionts on skin of the Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris. Sci Rep 2021; 11:1211. [PMID: 33441692 PMCID: PMC7806751 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-79879-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2020] [Accepted: 12/03/2020] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
A survey for the presence of nematodes on the skin of the native Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris from Crystal River, Florida was conducted during annual manatee health assessments. A putative isolate of Cutidiplogaster manati (Diplogastridae) and two other nematodes belonging to the same family were recovered from mid-dorsal tail skin-scrapings from all sampled winter-collected healthy wild adult manatees during two successive years (2018–2019). Qualitative abundance estimates of these three species of diplogastrid nematodes suggest that an average wild Florida manatee adult might possess between 30,000 and 120,000 nematodes on its tail dorsum and that the entire body dorsum including the tail might possess 160,000–640,000 nematodes in roughly equal ratios. Attempts to culture these nematodes on a variety of different culture media were unsuccessful but examination of the mouth (stomatal) morphology suggests specialized feeding on microbes such as diatoms or predation on other nematodes. No skin lesions were observed during the 2018–2019 samplings suggesting that under normal conditions these nematodes are highly specialized free-living epibionts of the skin that are tightly bound to this niche and horizontally transferred between individual manatees in an analogous fashion to human skin mites (Demodex folliculorum and D. brevis). Molecular phylogenetic inferences using sequences of near full length SSU and D2–D3 expansion segments of LSU rRNA genes revealed a putative new morphospecies in Cutidiplogaster sister to C. manati that was monophyletic with several named Mononchoides species, and another putative new morphospecies that formed a clade with several undescribed species similar in appearance to Mononchoides as well as Tylopharyx, Eudiplogasterium, Paroigolaimella and Sachsia.
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The Pathogenic Role of Demodex Mites in Rosacea: A Potential Therapeutic Target Already in Erythematotelangiectatic Rosacea? Dermatol Ther (Heidelb) 2020; 10:1229-1253. [PMID: 33095403 PMCID: PMC7649190 DOI: 10.1007/s13555-020-00458-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Rosacea is a common facial dermatosis but its definition and classification are still unclear, especially in terms of its links with demodicosis. Triggers of rosacea (ultraviolet light, heat, spicy foods, alcohol, stress, microbes) are currently considered to induce a cascading innate and then adaptive immune response that gets out of control. Recent histological and biochemical studies support the concept that this inflammatory response is a continuum, already present from the onset of the disease, even when no clinical signs of inflammation are visible. The Demodex mite is beginning to be accepted as one of the triggers of this inflammatory cascade, and its proliferation as a marker of rosacea; moreover, the papulopustules of rosacea can be effectively treated with topical acaricidal agents. Demodex proliferation appears to be a continuum process in rosacea, and may not be clinically visible at the onset of the disease. Molecular studies suggest that Demodex may induce tolerogenic dendritic cells and collaborate with vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) to induce T cell exhaustion and favor its own proliferation. These interactions among VEGF, Demodex, and immunity need to be explored further and the nosology of rosacea adapted accordingly. However, treating early rosacea, with only clinically visible vascular symptoms, with an acaricide may decrease early inflammation, limit potential flare-ups following laser treatment, and prevent the ultimate development of the papulopustules of rosacea. The effectiveness of this approach needs to be confirmed by prospective controlled clinical trials with long-term follow-up. Currently, the evidence suggests that patients with only vascular symptoms of rosacea should be carefully examined for the presence of follicular scales as signs of Demodex overgrowth or pityriasis folliculorum so that these patients, at least, can be treated early with an acaricidal cream.
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Abstract
Demodex is the most common parasite living on humans and yet little is understood about its pathogenicity with respect to the ocular surface. An increasing interest in Demodex over the past 20-years has increased our understanding of this mite and its pathogenetic role. This article begins with a review of the anatomy, life cycle, mode of transmission and advances in genetics that can distinguish between Demodex folliculorum and Demodex brevis, the only two Demodex species in humans. Additionally, a review of diagnostic procedures and existing and emerging ocular and systemic management options are presented. Despite the increasing interest in Demodex in the literature, there remains numerous obstacles for future studies, hence a section of this review is dedicated to the identification and proposal for future considerations. The lack of uniformity with respect to terminology, diagnostic technique and management approach for Demodex remain as obstacles for future study comparisons. This review summarised the current knowledge on Demodex and hopes to offer some recommendations for future directions in the study of Demodex in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Etty Bitton
- École d'optométrie, Université de Montréal, Montreal, Québec, Canada
| | - Sarah Aumond
- École d'optométrie, Université de Montréal, Montreal, Québec, Canada
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Blefaritis crónica grave. Evolución tórpida de varios años. Enferm Infecc Microbiol Clin 2019; 37:410-412. [DOI: 10.1016/j.eimc.2018.09.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2018] [Revised: 09/26/2018] [Accepted: 09/29/2018] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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Klimov PB, Skoracki M, Bochkov AV. Cox1 barcoding versus multilocus species delimitation: validation of two mite species with contrasting effective population sizes. Parasit Vectors 2019; 12:8. [PMID: 30611284 PMCID: PMC6321676 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-018-3242-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2018] [Accepted: 11/28/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The cox1-barcoding approach is currently extensively used for high-throughput species delimitation and discovery. However, this method has several limitations, particularly when organisms have large effective population sizes. Paradoxically, most common, abundant, and widely distributed species may be misclassified by this technique. RESULTS We conducted species delimitation analyses for two host-specific lineages of scab mites of the genus Caparinia, having small population sizes. Cox1 divergence between these lineages was high (7.4-7.8%) while that of nuclear genes was low (0.06-0.53%). This system was contrasted with the medically important American house dust mite, Dermatophagoides farinae, a globally distributed species with very large population size. This species has two distinct, sympatric cox1 lineages with 4.2% divergence. We tested several species delimitation algorithms PTP, GMYC, ABGD, BPP, STACEY and PHRAPL, which inferred different species boundaries for these entities. Notably, STACEY recovered the Caparinia lineages as two species and D. farinae as a single species. BPP agreed with these results when the prior on ancestral effective population sizes was set to expected values, although delimitation of Caparinia was still equivocal. No other cox1 species delimitation algorithms inferred D. farinae as a single species, despite the fact that the nuclear CPW2 gene shows some evidence for introgression between the cox1 groups. This indicates that the cox1-barcoding approach may result in excessive species splitting. CONCLUSIONS Our research highlights the importance of using nuclear genes and demographic characteristics to infer species boundaries rather than relying on a single-gene barcoding approach, particularly for putative species having large effective population sizes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pavel B. Klimov
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, Museum of Zoology, University of Michigan, 3600 Varsity Drive, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48108 USA
- Tyumen State University, 10 Semakova Str, 625003 Tyumen, Russia
| | - Maciej Skoracki
- Department of Animal Morphology, Faculty of Biology, Adam Mickiewicz University, Umultowska 89, 60-614 Poznan, Poland
| | - Andre V. Bochkov
- Tyumen State University, 10 Semakova Str, 625003 Tyumen, Russia
- Zoological Institute, Russian Academy of Sciences, Universitetskaya emb. 1, 199034 St Petersburg, Russia
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Sadgrove NJ. The new paradigm for androgenetic alopecia and plant-based folk remedies: 5α-reductase inhibition, reversal of secondary microinflammation and improving insulin resistance. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2018; 227:206-236. [PMID: 30195058 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2018.09.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2018] [Revised: 08/05/2018] [Accepted: 09/04/2018] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Research in the past half a century has gradually sketched the biological mechanism leading to androgenetic alopecia (AGA). Until recently the aetiological paradigm has been too limited to enable intelligent commentary on the use of folk remedies to treat or reduce the expression of this condition. However, our understanding is now at a point where we can describe how some folk remedies work, predict how effective they will be or why they fail. RESULTS The new paradigm of AGA is that inheritance and androgens (dihydrotestosterone) are the primary contributors and a secondary pathology, microinflammation, reinforces the process at more advanced stages of follicular miniaturisation. The main protagonist to microinflammation is believed to be microbial or Demodex over-colonisation of the infundibulum of the pilosebaceous unit, which can be ameliorated by antimicrobial/acaricidal or anti-inflammatory therapies that are used as adjuvants to androgen dependent treatments (either synthetic or natural). Furthermore, studies reveal that suboptimal androgen metabolism occurs in both AGA and insulin resistance (low SHBG or high DHT), suggesting comorbidity. Both can be ameliorated by dietary phytochemicals, such as specific classes of phenols (isoflavones, phenolic methoxy abietanes, hydroxylated anthraquinones) or polycyclic triterpenes (sterols, lupanes), by dual inhibition of key enzymes in AGA (5α-reductase) and insulin resistance (ie., DPP-4 or PTP1B) or agonism of nuclear receptors (PPARγ). Evidence strongly indicates that some plant-based folk remedies can ameliorate both primary and secondary aetiological factors in AGA and improve insulin resistance, or act merely as successful adjuvants to mainstream androgen dependent therapies. CONCLUSION Thus, if AGA is viewed as an outcome of primary and secondary factors, then it is better that a 'multimodal' or 'umbrella' approach, to achieve cessation and/or reversal, is put into practice, using complementation of chemical species (isoflavones, anthraquinones, procyanidins, triterpenes, saponins and hydrogen sulphide prodrugs), thereby targeting multiple 'factors'.
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Murillo P, Klimov P, Hubert J, OConnor B. Investigating species boundaries using DNA and morphology in the mite Tyrophagus curvipenis (Acari: Acaridae), an emerging invasive pest, with a molecular phylogeny of the genus Tyrophagus. EXPERIMENTAL & APPLIED ACAROLOGY 2018; 75:167-189. [PMID: 29700678 DOI: 10.1007/s10493-018-0256-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2017] [Accepted: 04/14/2018] [Indexed: 05/09/2023]
Abstract
Mites of the genus Tyrophagus (Acari: Acaridae) are among the most widespread and common mites, inhabiting diverse natural and anthropogenic habitats. Some species are pests of agricultural products and stored food and/or live in house dust, causing allergies to humans. We sequenced 1.2 kb of the mitochondrial COI gene for 38 individuals belonging to seven species of Tyrophagus, including T. curvipenis, T. putrescentiae, T. fanetzhangorum, T. longior, T. perniciosus, and T. cf. similis. Molecular phylogenetic analyses (1) recovered two major clades corresponding to the presence or absence of eyespots, and (2) separated all included morphological species. Tyrophagus curvipenis and T. putrescentiae had the lowest between-species genetic distances (range, mean ± SD): 14.20-16.30, 15.17 ± 0.40 (K2P). The highest within-species variation was found in T. putrescentiae 0.00-4.33, 1.78 ± 1.44 (K2P). In this species, we recovered two distinct groups; however, no geographical or ecological dissimilarities were observed between them. Based on our analyses, we document important morphological differences between T. curvipenis and T. putrescentiae. For the first time, we record the occurrence of T. curvipenis in the New World and suggest that it may be an emerging pest as it is currently spreading in agricultural produce.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pamela Murillo
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA.
- Laboratorio de Acarologia- CIPROC, Universidad de Costa Rica, Ciudad Universitaria Rodrigo Facio, San Pedro, 2060, Costa Rica.
| | - Pavel Klimov
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA
- Faculty of Biology, Tyumen State University, Tyumen, Russia
| | - Jan Hubert
- Biologically Active Substances in Crop Protection, Crop Research Institute, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Barry OConnor
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA
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Nashat MA, Ricart Arbona RJ, Riedel ER, Francino O, Ferrer L, Luchins KR, Lipman NS. Comparison of Diagnostic Methods and Sampling Sites for the Detection of Demodex musculi. JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN ASSOCIATION FOR LABORATORY ANIMAL SCIENCE : JAALAS 2018; 57:173-185. [PMID: 29555007 PMCID: PMC5868384] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2017] [Revised: 12/02/2017] [Accepted: 12/05/2017] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Demodex mites are microscopic, cigar-shaped, follicular mites often regarded as commensal microfauna in mammals. Although Demodex spp. can cause dermatologic disease in any immunocompromised mammal, they are rarely reported in laboratory mice. Recent identification of Demodex musculi in a colony of immunodeficient mice with dermatitis afforded us the opportunity to investigate the comparative sensitivity of 4 antemortem diagnostic techniques to detect D. musculi-superficial skin scrape (SSS), tape impression (TI), fur pluck (FP), and deep skin scrape (DSS)-which we performed on 4 anatomic sites (face, interscapular region [IS], caudal ventrum [CV], and caudal dorsum [CD]) in 46 mice. DSS had an overall detection rate of 91.1% (n = 112 tests), with the highest detection rates in IS (93.5%), CV (89.1%), and CD (90.0%). The detection rates for SSS (62.5%; n = 112 tests), TI (57.5%; n = 138 tests), and FP (62.7%; n = 158 tests) were all lower than for DSS. IS was the most reliable site. Results from combined FP and DSS samples collected from IS and CV yielded 100% detection, whereas the face was not a desirable sampling site due to inadequate sample quality and low detection rate. Demodex eggs and larvae were observed from FP more often than DSS (19.0% of 158 tests compared with 14.3% of 112 tests). In a subset of samples, an 18S rRNA PCR assay was equivalent to DSS for detection of mites (both 100%, n = 8). We recommend collecting samples from both IS and CV by both FP and DSS to assess for the presence of D. musculi and performing further studies to assess whether PCR analysis can be used as a diagnostic tool for the detection of Demodex mites in laboratory mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melissa A Nashat
- Tri-Institutional Training Program in Laboratory Animal Medicine and Science, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, Weill Cornell Medicine, and The Rockefeller University, New York, New York
| | - Rodolfo J Ricart Arbona
- Center for Comparative Medicine and Pathology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center and Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York
| | - Elyn R Riedel
- Epidemiology and Biostatistics Department, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - Olga Francino
- Molecular Genetics Veterinary Service, Department of Animal and Food Science, Autonomous University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Lluis Ferrer
- Department of Animal Medicine and Surgery, Autonomous University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Kerith R Luchins
- Center for Comparative Medicine and Pathology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center and Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York, Animal Resources Center, The University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Neil S Lipman
- Tri-Institutional Training Program in Laboratory Animal Medicine and Science, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, Weill Cornell Medicine, and The Rockefeller University, Center for Comparative Medicine and Pathology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center and Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York;,
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Fraser TA, Shao R, Fountain-Jones NM, Charleston M, Martin A, Whiteley P, Holme R, Carver S, Polkinghorne A. Mitochondrial genome sequencing reveals potential origins of the scabies mite Sarcoptes scabiei infesting two iconic Australian marsupials. BMC Evol Biol 2017; 17:233. [PMID: 29183283 PMCID: PMC5706379 DOI: 10.1186/s12862-017-1086-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2017] [Accepted: 11/21/2017] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Debilitating skin infestations caused by the mite, Sarcoptes scabiei, have a profound impact on human and animal health globally. In Australia, this impact is evident across different segments of Australian society, with a growing recognition that it can contribute to rapid declines of native Australian marsupials. Cross-host transmission has been suggested to play a significant role in the epidemiology and origin of mite infestations in different species but a chronic lack of genetic resources has made further inferences difficult. To investigate the origins and molecular epidemiology of S. scabiei in Australian wildlife, we sequenced the mitochondrial genomes of S. scabiei from diseased wombats (Vombatus ursinus) and koalas (Phascolarctos cinereus) spanning New South Wales, Victoria and Tasmania, and compared them with the recently sequenced mitochondrial genome sequences of S. scabiei from humans. RESULTS We found unique S. scabiei haplotypes among individual wombat and koala hosts with high sequence similarity (99.1% - 100%). Phylogenetic analysis of near full-length mitochondrial genomes revealed three clades of S. scabiei (one human and two marsupial), with no apparent geographic or host species pattern, suggestive of multiple introductions. The availability of additional mitochondrial gene sequences also enabled a re-evaluation of a range of putative molecular markers of S. scabiei, revealing that cox1 is the most informative gene for molecular epidemiological investigations. Utilising this gene target, we provide additional evidence to support cross-host transmission between different animal hosts. CONCLUSIONS Our results suggest a history of parasite invasion through colonisation of Australia from hosts across the globe and the potential for cross-host transmission being a common feature of the epidemiology of this neglected pathogen. If this is the case, comparable patterns may exist elsewhere in the 'New World'. This work provides a basis for expanded molecular studies into mange epidemiology in humans and animals in Australia and other geographic regions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tamieka A. Fraser
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Tasmania, Sandy Bay, Hobart, TAS Australia
- Centre for Animal Health Innovation, School of Science and Engineering, University of the Sunshine Coast, Sippy Downs, QLD Australia
| | - Renfu Shao
- Centre for Animal Health Innovation, School of Science and Engineering, University of the Sunshine Coast, Sippy Downs, QLD Australia
| | | | - Michael Charleston
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Tasmania, Sandy Bay, Hobart, TAS Australia
- School of Information Technologies, University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW Australia
| | - Alynn Martin
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Tasmania, Sandy Bay, Hobart, TAS Australia
| | - Pam Whiteley
- Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Werribee, VIC Australia
| | - Roz Holme
- Cedar Creek Wombat Rescue Inc. & Hospital, Cedar Creek, NSW Australia
| | - Scott Carver
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Tasmania, Sandy Bay, Hobart, TAS Australia
| | - Adam Polkinghorne
- Centre for Animal Health Innovation, School of Science and Engineering, University of the Sunshine Coast, Sippy Downs, QLD Australia
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DNA barcoding for molecular identification of Demodex based on mitochondrial genes. Parasitol Res 2017; 116:3285-3290. [PMID: 29032499 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-017-5641-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2017] [Accepted: 10/02/2017] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
There has been no widely accepted DNA barcode for species identification of Demodex. In this study, we attempted to solve this issue. First, mitochondrial cox1-5' and 12S gene fragments of Demodex folloculorum, D. brevis, D. canis, and D. caprae were amplified, cloned, and sequenced for the first time; intra/interspecific divergences were computed and phylogenetic trees were reconstructed. Then, divergence frequency distribution plots of those two gene fragments were drawn together with mtDNA cox1-middle region and 16S obtained in previous studies. Finally, their identification efficiency was evaluated by comparing barcoding gap. Results indicated that 12S had the higher identification efficiency. Specifically, for cox1-5' region of the four Demodex species, intraspecific divergences were less than 2.0%, and interspecific divergences were 21.1-31.0%; for 12S, intraspecific divergences were less than 1.4%, and interspecific divergences were 20.8-26.9%. The phylogenetic trees demonstrated that the four Demodex species clustered separately, and divergence frequency distribution plot showed that the largest intraspecific divergence of 12S (1.4%) was less than cox1-5' region (2.0%), cox1-middle region (3.1%), and 16S (2.8%). The barcoding gap of 12S was 19.4%, larger than cox1-5' region (19.1%), cox1-middle region (11.3%), and 16S (13.0%); the interspecific divergence span of 12S was 6.2%, smaller than cox1-5' region (10.0%), cox1-middle region (14.1%), and 16S (11.4%). Moreover, 12S has a moderate length (517 bp) for sequencing at once. Therefore, we proposed mtDNA 12S was more suitable than cox1 and 16S to be a DNA barcode for classification and identification of Demodex at lower category level.
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Nashat MA, Luchins KR, Lepherd ML, Riedel ER, Izdebska JN, Lipman NS. Characterization of Demodex musculi Infestation, Associated Comorbidities, and Topographic Distribution in a Mouse Strain with Defective Adaptive Immunity. Comp Med 2017; 67:315-329. [PMID: 28830578 PMCID: PMC5557203] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2016] [Revised: 01/22/2017] [Accepted: 02/06/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
A colony of B6.Cg-Rag1tm1Mom Tyrp1B-w Tg(Tcra,Tcrb)9Rest (TRP1/TCR) mice presented with ocular lesions and ulcerative dermatitis. Histopathology, skin scrapes, and fur plucks confirmed the presence of Demodex spp. in all clinically affected and subclinical TRP1/TCR mice examined (n = 48). Pasteurella pneumotropica and Corynebacterium bovis, both opportunistic pathogens, were cultured from the ocular lesions and skin, respectively, and bacteria were observed microscopically in abscesses at various anatomic locations (including retroorbital sites, tympanic bullae, lymph nodes, and reproductive organs) as well as the affected epidermis. The mites were identified as Demodex musculi using the skin fragment digestion technique. Topographic analysis of the skin revealed mites in almost all areas of densely haired skin, indicating a generalized demodecosis. The percentage of infested follicles in 8- to 10-wk-old mice ranged from 0% to 21%, and the number of mites per millimeter of skin ranged from 0 to 3.7. The head, interscapular region, and middorsum had the highest proportions of infested follicles, ranging from 2.3% to 21.1% (median, 4.9%), 2.0% to 16.6% (8.1%), and 0% to 17% (7.6%), respectively. The pinnae and tail skin had few or no mites, with the proportion of follicles infested ranging from 0% to 3.3% (0%) and 0% to 1.4% (0%), respectively. The number of mites per millimeter was strongly correlated with the percentage of infested follicles. After administration of amoxicillin-impregnated feed (0.12%), suppurative infections were eliminated, and the incidence of ulcerative dermatitis was dramatically reduced. We hypothesize that the Rag1-null component of the genotype makes TRP1/TCR mice susceptible to various opportunistic infestations and infections, including Demodex mites, P. pneumotropica, and C. bovis. Therefore, Rag1-null mice may serve as a useful model to study human and canine demodecosis. D. musculi should be ruled out as a contributing factor in immunocompromised mouse strains with dermatologic manifestations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melissa A Nashat
- Tri-Institutional Training Program in Laboratory Animal Medicine and Science, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, Weill Cornell Medicine, and The Rockefeller University, New York, New York, USA
| | - Kerith R Luchins
- Animal Resources Center, The University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Michelle L Lepherd
- Center for Comparative Medicine and Pathology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center and Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York, USA; Gribbles Veterinary, Christchurch, New Zealand
| | - Elyn R Riedel
- Epidemiology and Biostatistics Department, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York, USA
| | - Joanna N Izdebska
- Department of Invertebrate Zoology and Parasitology, University of Gdansk, Gdansk, Poland
| | - Neil S Lipman
- Tri-Institutional Training Program in Laboratory Animal Medicine and Science, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, Weill Cornell Medicine, and The Rockefeller University, Center for Comparative Medicine and Pathology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center and Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York, USA.
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Haché S, Bayne EM, Villard M, Proctor H, Davis CS, Stralberg D, Janes JK, Hallworth MT, Foster KR, Chidambara‐vasi E, Grossi AA, Gorrell JC, Krikun R. Phylogeography of a migratory songbird across its Canadian breeding range: Implications for conservation units. Ecol Evol 2017; 7:6078-6088. [PMID: 28861214 PMCID: PMC5574796 DOI: 10.1002/ece3.3170] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2016] [Revised: 05/20/2017] [Accepted: 05/25/2017] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
The objectives of this study were to describe and evaluate potential drivers of genetic structure in Canadian breeding populations of the Ovenbird, Seiurus aurocapilla. We performed genetic analyses on feather samples of individuals from six study sites using nuclear microsatellites. We also assessed species identity and population genetic structure of quill mites (Acariformes, Syringophilidae). For male Ovenbirds breeding in three study sites, we collected light-level geolocator data to document migratory paths and identify the wintering grounds. We also generated paleohindcast projections from bioclimatic models of Ovenbird distribution to identify potential refugia during the last glacial maximum (LGM, 21,000 years before present) as a factor explaining population genetic structure. Birds breeding in the Cypress Hills (Alberta/Saskatchewan) may be considered a distinct genetic unit, but there was no evidence for genetic differentiation among any other populations. We found relatively strong migratory connectivity in both western and eastern populations, but some evidence of mixing among populations on the wintering grounds. There was also little genetic variation among syringophilid mites from the different Ovenbird populations. These results are consistent with paleohindcast distribution predictions derived from two different global climate models indicating a continuous single LGM refugium, with the possibility of two refugia. Our results suggest that Ovenbird populations breeding in boreal and hemiboreal regions are panmictic, whereas the population breeding in Cypress Hills should be considered a distinct management unit.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samuel Haché
- Department of Biological SciencesUniversity of AlbertaEdmontonABCanada
- Environment and Climate Change CanadaYellowknifeNTCanada
| | - Erin M. Bayne
- Department of Biological SciencesUniversity of AlbertaEdmontonABCanada
| | - Marc‐André Villard
- Department of Biological SciencesUniversity of AlbertaEdmontonABCanada
- Département de biologie, chimie et géographieUniversité du Québec à RimouskiRimouskiQCCanada
| | - Heather Proctor
- Department of Biological SciencesUniversity of AlbertaEdmontonABCanada
| | - Corey S. Davis
- Department of Biological SciencesUniversity of AlbertaEdmontonABCanada
| | - Diana Stralberg
- Department of Biological SciencesUniversity of AlbertaEdmontonABCanada
- Department of Renewable ResourcesUniversity of AlbertaEdmontonABCanada
| | - Jasmine K. Janes
- Department of Biological SciencesUniversity of AlbertaEdmontonABCanada
| | - Michael T. Hallworth
- Migratory Bird CenterSmithsonian Conservation Biology InstituteNational Zoological ParkWashingtonDCUSA
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Abstract
SUMMARYThe sequences of four mitochondrial genes were determined for Demodex mites isolated from two distantly related species within the family Cervidae, and identified morphologically as belonging to the species Demodex kutzeri. The sequences were used to test the hypothesis that Demodex are strictly host-specific, and hence cospeciate with their hosts: (1) The estimated divergence time between mites found on elk vs humans agreed closely with a previous estimate of the time that these host species last shared a common ancestor, suggesting cospeciation of mites and hosts, at least over long evolutionary timescales. (2) The extremely low levels of sequence divergence between the mites found on elk vs mule deer hosts indicated that these mites belong to the same species, which suggests that Demodex are able to move across host species boundaries over shorter timescales. Together, the results are consistent with the model that Demodex mites are not strict host-specialists, but instead lose the ability to move between host lineages gradually.
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31
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Sastre N, Francino O, Curti JN, Armenta TC, Fraser DL, Kelly RM, Hunt E, Silbermayr K, Zewe C, Sánchez A, Ferrer L. Detection, Prevalence and Phylogenetic Relationships of Demodex spp and further Skin Prostigmata Mites (Acari, Arachnida) in Wild and Domestic Mammals. PLoS One 2016; 11:e0165765. [PMID: 27802314 PMCID: PMC5089713 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0165765] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2016] [Accepted: 10/17/2016] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
This study was conceived to detect skin mites in social mammals through real-time qPCR, and to estimate taxonomic Demodex and further Prostigmata mite relationships in different host species by comparing sequences from two genes: mitochondrial 16S rRNA and nuclear 18S rRNA. We determined the mite prevalence in the hair follicles of marmots (13%) and bats (17%). The high prevalence found in marmots and bats by sampling only one site on the body may indicate that mites are common inhabitants of their skin. Since we found three different mites (Neuchelacheles sp, Myobia sp and Penthaleus sp) in three bat species (Miotis yumanensis, Miotis californicus and Corynorhinus townsendii) and two different mites (both inferred to be members of the Prostigmata order) in one marmot species (Marmota flaviventris), we tentatively concluded that these skin mites 1) cannot be assigned to the same genus based only on a common host, and 2) seem to evolve according to the specific habitat and/or specific hair and sebaceous gland of the mammalian host. Moreover, two M. yumanensis bats harbored identical Neuchelacheles mites, indicating the possibility of interspecific cross-infection within a colony. However, some skin mites species are less restricted by host species than previously thought. Specifically, Demodex canis seems to be more transmissible across species than other skin mites. D. canis have been found mostly in dogs but also in cats and captive bats. In addition, we report the first case of D. canis infestation in a domestic ferret (Mustela putorius). All these mammalian hosts are related to human activities, and D. canis evolution may be a consequence of this relationship. The monophyletic Demodex clade showing closely related dog and human Demodex sequences also supports this likely hypothesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalia Sastre
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of California, Los Angeles, California, United States of America
- Servei Veterinari de Genètica Molecular, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra, Spain
| | - Olga Francino
- Servei Veterinari de Genètica Molecular, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra, Spain
| | - Joseph N. Curti
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of California, Los Angeles, California, United States of America
| | - Tiffany C. Armenta
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of California, Los Angeles, California, United States of America
- The Rocky Mountain Biological Laboratory, Crested Butte, Colorado, United States of America
| | - Devaughn L. Fraser
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of California, Los Angeles, California, United States of America
| | - Rochelle M. Kelly
- Department of Biology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
| | - Erin Hunt
- California Wolf Center, Julian, California, United States of America
| | - Katja Silbermayr
- Department of Pathobiology, Institute of Parasitology, Vetmeduni Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Christine Zewe
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine, Tufts University, North Grafton, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Armand Sánchez
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of California, Los Angeles, California, United States of America
| | - Lluís Ferrer
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine, Tufts University, North Grafton, Massachusetts, United States of America
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