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Yeak KYC, Garre A, Membré JM, Zwietering MH, den Besten HMW. Systematic risk ranking of microbiological hazards in infant foods. Food Res Int 2024; 192:114788. [PMID: 39147463 DOI: 10.1016/j.foodres.2024.114788] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2024] [Revised: 07/10/2024] [Accepted: 07/15/2024] [Indexed: 08/17/2024]
Abstract
Ensuring food safety, particularly for vulnerable groups, like infants and young children, requires identifying and prioritizing potential hazards in food chains. We previously developed a web-based decision support system (DSS) to identify specific microbiological hazards (MHs) in infant and toddler foods through a structured five-step process. This study takes the framework further by introducing systematic risk ranking (RR) steps to rank MH risks with seven criteria: process survival, recontamination, growth opportunity, meal preparation, hazard-food association evidence, food consumption habits of infants and toddlers in the EU, and MH severity. Each criterion is given a semi-quantitative or quantitative score or risk value, contributing to the final MH risk calculation via three aggregation methods: semi-quantitative risk scoring, semi-quantitative risk value, and outranking multi-criteria decision analysis (MCDA). To validate the criteria and ranking approaches, we conducted a case study to rank MH risks in infant formula, compared the results of the three risk ranking methods, and additionally evaluated the ranking results against expert opinions to ensure their accuracy. The results showed strong agreement among the three methods, consistently ranking Salmonella non-Typhi and Cronobacter spp. and Shiga-toxin-producing Escherichia coli as the top MH risks in infant formulae, with minor deviations. When MHs were ranked after an initial hazard identification step, all three methods produced nearly identical MH rankings, reinforcing the reliability of the ranking steps and the selected criteria. Notably, the risk value and MCDA methods provided more informative MH rankings compared to the risk scoring method. The risk value and risk scoring methods were implemented into an online tool, called the MIcrobiological hazards risk RAnking decision support system (Mira-DSS), available at https://foodmicrobiologywur.shinyapps.io/MIcrobial_hazards_RAnking/. In conclusion, our framework enables the ranking of MH risks, facilitating intervention comparisons and resource allocations to mitigate MH risks in infant foods, with potential applicability to broader food categories.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kah Yen Claire Yeak
- Food Microbiology, Wageningen University & Research, Wageningen, The Netherlands
| | - Alberto Garre
- Departamento de Ingeniería de Alimentos y del Equipamiento Agrícola, Instituto de Biotecnología Vegetal, Universidad Politécnica de Cartagena (ETSIA), Paseo Alfonso XIII, 48, 30203 Cartagena, Spain
| | | | - Marcel H Zwietering
- Food Microbiology, Wageningen University & Research, Wageningen, The Netherlands
| | - Heidy M W den Besten
- Food Microbiology, Wageningen University & Research, Wageningen, The Netherlands.
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2
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Rentería-Solís Z, Deutschmann P, Vahlenkamp TW, Heenemann K. Toxoplasma gondii in Wild Boars ( Sus scrofa) in Germany: Serological Screening from Thuringia. Animals (Basel) 2024; 14:2148. [PMID: 39123674 PMCID: PMC11311019 DOI: 10.3390/ani14152148] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2024] [Revised: 07/12/2024] [Accepted: 07/19/2024] [Indexed: 08/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Game meat is an important source of meat borne parasitic infections. Due to its omnivorous diet, the wild boar is an important host of zoonotic parasites such as Toxoplasma gondii. T. gondii can cause severe to fatal disease in immunosuppressed patients, as well as congenital disorders in foetus and neonates. Consumption of undercooked infected meat is a main source of T. gondii infection. Information about the risk of toxoplasmosis through game meat is scarce. We collected serum samples from 42 wild boars from the federal state of Thuringia (Germany) between December 2017 and February 2018. Identification of anti-T. gondii IgG antibodies was conducted using a commercial indirect ELISA kit. Seropositivity was confirmed in 18 of the 42 samples (37.50%). From these, the highest seroprevalence was found in adult animals. This study joins another single database from wild boars in Brandenburg. The necessity of a country-wide database regarding T. gondii prevalence in wild boar and other game meat is pivotal for a profound risk analysis with its consequential impact in future mean hygiene policies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zaida Rentería-Solís
- Institute of Parasitology, Centre for Infection Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Leipzig University, 04103 Leipzig, Germany
- Albrecht-Daniel-Thaer Institute, Rudolf-Breitscheid-Str. 38, 04463 Groesspoesna, Germany
| | - Paul Deutschmann
- Institute of Virology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Leipzig University, An den Tierkliniken 29, 04103 Leipzig, Germany
| | - Thomas W. Vahlenkamp
- Institute of Virology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Leipzig University, An den Tierkliniken 29, 04103 Leipzig, Germany
| | - Kristin Heenemann
- Institute of Virology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Leipzig University, An den Tierkliniken 29, 04103 Leipzig, Germany
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3
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Roller S, Angulo-Tisoc JM, Pacheco JI, Jimenez J, Vargas-Calla A, Morales-Cauti SM, Lopez-Urbina MT, Gonzalez AE, Gomez-Puerta LA. Molecular detection of Toxoplasma gondii in domestic and wild guinea pigs (Cavia spp.) from the Marangani district in Cuzco, Peru. Vet Parasitol Reg Stud Reports 2024; 52:101038. [PMID: 38880563 DOI: 10.1016/j.vprsr.2024.101038] [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: 07/04/2023] [Revised: 02/18/2024] [Accepted: 05/13/2024] [Indexed: 06/18/2024]
Abstract
Toxoplasmosis is a foodborne disease caused by the protozoan Toxoplasma gondii, and transmitted to humans by eating raw or undercooked meat, mainly. Poultry, beef, and pork are the main meats consumed in Peru; despite this, guinea pig meat is also widely consumed. For this reason, the objective of this study was to molecularly detect T. gondii in domestic and wild guinea pigs from the Marangani district in Cuzco, Peru, and identify some risk factors associated with this pathogen. DNA was extracted from the brain tissue samples of guinea pigs (30 domestic and 30 wild), and PCR protocols were used to amplify the internal transcribed spacer (ITS-1) region and a 529 bp fragment from the T. gondii genome. T. gondii DNA was detected in 14 (23.3%) guinea pigs. T. gondii frequency was 33.3% in domestic guinea pigs and 13.3% in wild guinea pigs. Our results demonstrated that guinea pigs represent an important source for T. gondii infection in human populations in this locality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steffi Roller
- School of Veterinary Medicine, Universidad Nacional Mayor de San Marcos, Av. Circunvalacion 2800, Lima 41, Peru
| | - José M Angulo-Tisoc
- Instituto Veterinario de Investigaciones Tropicales y de Altura, Sede Marangani, Universidad Nacional Mayor de San Marcos, Jr. Lima s/n, Cusco, Peru
| | - Joel I Pacheco
- Instituto Veterinario de Investigaciones Tropicales y de Altura, Sede Marangani, Universidad Nacional Mayor de San Marcos, Jr. Lima s/n, Cusco, Peru
| | - Juan Jimenez
- Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Laboratorio de Parasitología Humana y Animal, Universidad Nacional Mayor de San Marcos, Av. Venezuela s/n cuadra 34, Lima 1, Peru
| | - Ana Vargas-Calla
- School of Veterinary Medicine, Universidad Nacional Mayor de San Marcos, Av. Circunvalacion 2800, Lima 41, Peru
| | - Siever M Morales-Cauti
- School of Veterinary Medicine, Universidad Nacional Mayor de San Marcos, Av. Circunvalacion 2800, Lima 41, Peru
| | - Maria T Lopez-Urbina
- School of Veterinary Medicine, Universidad Nacional Mayor de San Marcos, Av. Circunvalacion 2800, Lima 41, Peru
| | - Armando E Gonzalez
- School of Veterinary Medicine, Universidad Nacional Mayor de San Marcos, Av. Circunvalacion 2800, Lima 41, Peru
| | - Luis A Gomez-Puerta
- School of Veterinary Medicine, Universidad Nacional Mayor de San Marcos, Av. Circunvalacion 2800, Lima 41, Peru.
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4
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Ullmann J, Kodym P, Flegr J, Berenová D, Jirsová S, Kaňková Š. Oral Sex as a Potential Route for Toxoplasma Gondii Transmission: Experiment with Human Semen and Laboratory Mice Model. Acta Parasitol 2024; 69:1314-1318. [PMID: 38662074 DOI: 10.1007/s11686-024-00848-5] [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: 01/24/2024] [Accepted: 04/15/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE Toxoplasma gondii is one of the most widespread parasites in the human population globally. Several modes of its transmission have been proposed: some are well-researched and confirmed, others remain unconfirmed. One unconfirmed hypothesis pertains to potential transmission of Toxoplasma gondii via oral sex (fellatio) in humans. A recent study found tissue cysts in the semen of men with latent toxoplasmosis. Therefore, we aimed to test the hypothesis of Toxoplasma gondii transmission through oral sex experimentally. METHODS Eighty-two laboratory mice were orally administered semen samples from 41 men with latent toxoplasmosis. These semen samples were examined for the presence of Toxoplasma gondii DNA using PCR. RESULTS We detected Toxoplasma gondii DNA in three of the 41 semen samples from men with latent toxoplasmosis. Oral administration of semen samples to laboratory mice did not result in parasite transmission. CONCLUSION We have not demonstrated the transmission of Toxoplasma to mice by oral exposure to semen from infected men. While this does not conclusively rule out the possibility of such transmission in humans, the results suggest that, if it does occur, this mode of transmission is likely infrequent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jana Ullmann
- Department of Philosophy and History of Science, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic.
| | - Petr Kodym
- National Reference Laboratory for Toxoplasmosis, National Institute of Public Health, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Jaroslav Flegr
- Department of Philosophy and History of Science, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Dagmar Berenová
- National Reference Laboratory for Toxoplasmosis, National Institute of Public Health, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Simona Jirsová
- Centre for Assisted Reproduction, Department of Gynaecology, Obstetrics and Neonatology, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and General University Hospital in Prague, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Šárka Kaňková
- Department of Philosophy and History of Science, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic
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Sini MF, Manconi M, Varcasia A, Massei G, Sandu R, Mehmood N, Ahmed F, Carta C, Cantacessi C, Scarano C, Scala A, Tamponi C. Seroepidemiological and biomolecular survey on Toxoplasma gondii in Sardinian wild boar ( Sus scrofa). Food Waterborne Parasitol 2024; 34:e00222. [PMID: 38323095 PMCID: PMC10844814 DOI: 10.1016/j.fawpar.2024.e00222] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2023] [Revised: 01/15/2024] [Accepted: 01/25/2024] [Indexed: 02/08/2024] Open
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii is a zoonotic parasite able of infecting all warm-blooded animals. Toxoplasmosis is one of the major foodborne diseases globally. The consumption of wild boar (Sus scrofa) meat from recreational hunting has been linked to outbreaks of human toxoplasmosis. The island of Sardinia (Italy) contains a large wild boar population, thus providing an opportunity to assess the distribution of Toxoplasma in this species and the associated risks of transmission to humans. A total of 562 wild boars were screened: heart and meat juice samples were tested for T. gondii DNA via nested-PCR and IgG anti-Toxoplasma by commercial ELISA. Anti-Toxoplasma IgG were detected in 24.6% (138/562) of animals, while 37.2% (209/562) of the heart samples were PCR positive. The prevalence of T. gondii antibodies and DNA highlights the potential role of wild boar as an important reservoir for this parasite. The study suggests that wild boar could play a significant role in spreading the parasite to humans. As wild boar numbers are increasing throughout their range, their potential role in transmitting toxoplasmosis should be communicated to stakeholders, and the impact of different population control methods on disease transmission should be thoroughly assessed to mitigate potential threats effectively.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Maria Manconi
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy
| | - Antonio Varcasia
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy
| | - Giovanna Massei
- Botstiber Institute for Wildlife Fertility Control Europe, Department of Environment and Geography, University of York, 290 Wentworth Way, Heslington, York YO10 5NG, United Kingdom
| | - Ramona Sandu
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy
| | - Naunain Mehmood
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy
- Department of Zoology, University of Sargodha, Sargodha, Pakistan
| | - Fahad Ahmed
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy
- School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Ulster, Coleraine, Northern Ireland, United Kingdom
| | - Carlo Carta
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy
| | - Cinzia Cantacessi
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Christian Scarano
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy
| | - Antonio Scala
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy
| | - Claudia Tamponi
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy
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Domann N, Rezende SR, Fleury ACC, Barbosa IMFN, Ribeiro IDC, Dornelas JB, de Oliveira TFC, de Moura VOL, Storchilo HR, de Castro AM, Garcia JL, Cardoso LPV, Rezende HHA. Molecular characterization and epidemiology of Toxoplasma gondii isolates from free-range chickens in the southwest region of Goiás: new genotypes. REVISTA BRASILEIRA DE PARASITOLOGIA VETERINARIA = BRAZILIAN JOURNAL OF VETERINARY PARASITOLOGY : ORGAO OFICIAL DO COLEGIO BRASILEIRO DE PARASITOLOGIA VETERINARIA 2023; 32:e009823. [PMID: 38055433 PMCID: PMC10704866 DOI: 10.1590/s1984-29612023069] [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: 07/04/2023] [Accepted: 10/16/2023] [Indexed: 12/08/2023]
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to isolate Toxoplasma gondii from tissues of free-range chickens in the southwestern region of Goiás, to detect and molecularly characterize the genetic material of the parasite, and to determine the seroprevalence of the protozoan parasite in these animals. A seroprevalence of T. gondii antibodies of 76% (19/25) was found among the chickens, while genetic material from their tissues was detected in 56% (14/25). A total of 14 isolates was obtained in the bioassay, ten of which were considered acute, eight were considered isolates of high virulence lethal to mice, and four of low virulence, considered non-lethal but with the ability to chronify the infection. Seven of the ten isolates showed significant morphometric differences from the RH strain, in terms of nucleus-complex-apical distance, length and width. Genotyping of the acute isolates was performed by RFLP-PCR, using 11 genetic markers: SAG1, SAG2 (3'SAG2 and 5'SAG2), alt.SAG2, SAG3, BTUB, GRA6, c22-8, c29-2, L358, PK1, and APICO. The results were compared and classified according to the genotypes listed on the ToxoDB Platform, where different profiles were observed indicating the presence of two known genotypes (#7 and #63) and five new genotypes (NEW 3, NEW4, NEW5, NEW6, NEW 7). The results showed high seroprevalence, isolation rate, molecular detection and genotypic variations of T. gondii in free-range chickens in the southwestern region of Goiás.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natália Domann
- Instituto de Ciências da Saúde, Laboratório de Bacteriologia e Micologia, Universidade Federal de Jataí – UFJ, Jataí, GO, Brasil
| | - Stéfanne Rodrigues Rezende
- Instituto de Ciências da Saúde, Laboratório de Bacteriologia e Micologia, Universidade Federal de Jataí – UFJ, Jataí, GO, Brasil
| | - Amanda Cristina Corrêa Fleury
- Instituto de Ciências da Saúde, Laboratório de Bacteriologia e Micologia, Universidade Federal de Jataí – UFJ, Jataí, GO, Brasil
| | | | - Isabella da Costa Ribeiro
- Instituto de Ciências da Saúde, Laboratório de Bacteriologia e Micologia, Universidade Federal de Jataí – UFJ, Jataí, GO, Brasil
| | - Júlia Batista Dornelas
- Instituto de Ciências da Saúde, Laboratório de Bacteriologia e Micologia, Universidade Federal de Jataí – UFJ, Jataí, GO, Brasil
| | | | - Vanessa Oliveira Lopes de Moura
- Instituto de Ciências da Saúde, Laboratório de Bacteriologia e Micologia, Universidade Federal de Jataí – UFJ, Jataí, GO, Brasil
| | - Heloísa Ribeiro Storchilo
- Laboratório de Estudos da Relação Parasito-Hospedeiro, Instituto de Patologia Tropical e Saúde Pública, Universidade Federal de Goiás – UFG, Goiânia, GO, Brasil
| | - Ana Maria de Castro
- Laboratório de Estudos da Relação Parasito-Hospedeiro, Instituto de Patologia Tropical e Saúde Pública, Universidade Federal de Goiás – UFG, Goiânia, GO, Brasil
| | - João Luís Garcia
- Laboratório de Protozoologia Veterinária, Universidade Estadual de Londrina – UEL, Londrina, PR, Brasil
| | - Ludimila Paula Vaz Cardoso
- Instituto de Ciências da Saúde, Laboratório de Bacteriologia e Micologia, Universidade Federal de Jataí – UFJ, Jataí, GO, Brasil
| | - Hanstter Hallison Alves Rezende
- Instituto de Ciências da Saúde, Laboratório de Bacteriologia e Micologia, Universidade Federal de Jataí – UFJ, Jataí, GO, Brasil
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Augendre L, Costa D, Escotte-Binet S, Aubert D, Villena I, Dumètre A, La Carbona S. Surrogates of foodborne and waterborne protozoan parasites: A review. Food Waterborne Parasitol 2023; 33:e00212. [PMID: 38028241 PMCID: PMC10661733 DOI: 10.1016/j.fawpar.2023.e00212] [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: 08/03/2023] [Revised: 10/27/2023] [Accepted: 10/27/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
The protozoan parasites Cryptosporidium parvum, Cyclospora cayetanensis, and Toxoplasma gondii are major causes of waterborne and foodborne diseases worldwide. The assessment of their removal or inactivation during water treatment and food processing remains challenging, partly because research on these parasites is hindered by various economical, ethical, methodological, and biological constraints. To address public health concerns and gain new knowledge, researchers are increasingly seeking alternatives to the use of such pathogenic parasites. Over the past few decades, several non-pathogenic microorganisms and manufactured microparticles have been evaluated as potential surrogates of waterborne and foodborne protozoan parasites. Here, we review the surrogates that have been reported for C. parvum, C. cayetanensis, and T. gondii oocysts, and discuss their use and relevance to assess the transport, removal, and inactivation of these parasites in food and water matrices. Biological surrogates including non-human pathogenic Eimeria parasites, microorganisms found in water sources (anaerobic and aerobic spore-forming bacteria, algae), and non-biological surrogates (i.e. manufactured microparticles) have been identified. We emphasize that such surrogates have to be carefully selected and implemented depending on the parasite and the targeted application. Eimeria oocysts appear as promising surrogates to investigate in the future the pathogenic coccidian parasites C. cayetanensis and T. gondii that are the most challenging to work with.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laure Augendre
- EA 7510 ESCAPE Epidemiosurveillance and Circulation of Parasites in the Environment, University of Reims Champagne Ardennes, Faculty of Medicine, SFR Cap Santé Fed 4231, 51 Rue Cognacq Jay, 51096 Reims Cedex, France
- ACTALIA Food Safety, 310 Rue Popielujko, 50000, Saint-Lô, France
| | - Damien Costa
- EA 7510 ESCAPE Epidemiosurveillance and Circulation of Parasites in the Environment, University of Rouen Normandie, University Hospital of Rouen, 22 Boulevard Gambetta, 76183 Rouen Cedex, France
| | - Sandie Escotte-Binet
- EA 7510 ESCAPE Epidemiosurveillance and Circulation of Parasites in the Environment, University of Reims Champagne Ardennes, Faculty of Medicine, SFR Cap Santé Fed 4231, 51 Rue Cognacq Jay, 51096 Reims Cedex, France
| | - Dominique Aubert
- EA 7510 ESCAPE Epidemiosurveillance and Circulation of Parasites in the Environment, University of Reims Champagne Ardennes, Faculty of Medicine, SFR Cap Santé Fed 4231, 51 Rue Cognacq Jay, 51096 Reims Cedex, France
| | - Isabelle Villena
- EA 7510 ESCAPE Epidemiosurveillance and Circulation of Parasites in the Environment, University of Reims Champagne Ardennes, Faculty of Medicine, SFR Cap Santé Fed 4231, 51 Rue Cognacq Jay, 51096 Reims Cedex, France
| | - Aurélien Dumètre
- Aix-Marseille University, IRD, AP-HM, IHU Méditerranée Infection, UMR Vectors - Tropical and Mediterranean Infections, 19-21 Boulevard Jean Moulin, 13005 Marseille, France
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8
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Symeonidou I, Sioutas G, Lazou T, Gelasakis AI, Papadopoulos E. A Review of Toxoplasma gondii in Animals in Greece: A FoodBorne Pathogen of Public Health Importance. Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:2530. [PMID: 37570337 PMCID: PMC10416908 DOI: 10.3390/ani13152530] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2023] [Revised: 07/31/2023] [Accepted: 08/03/2023] [Indexed: 08/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii is a zoonotic protozoon with a complex life cycle and the second most important foodborne pathogen in Europe. Surveillance of toxoplasmosis is based on national considerations since there are no mandatory controls along the food chain in the European Union, and underreporting of meat is still a problem in many countries like Greece. The current review provides an overview of T. gondii prevalence, associated risk factors, and surveillance in animals in Greece, focusing on the transmission role of meat and highlighting the control measures that should be adopted by consumers. Sows, wild boars, hares, equines, and cats had lower, while sheep and goats generally had higher seroprevalence than their respective pooled European and global values. Seroprevalence in chickens was similar between Greece and Europe, while there was high variation in cattle studies, with no data regarding dairy products. Though a comprehensive meat safety assurance system is the most effective approach to control the principal biological hazards associated with meat, such as T. gondii, the prerequisite risk categorisation of farms and abattoirs based on EFSA's proposed harmonised epidemiological indicators has not materialised as yet in Greece. Therefore, comprehensive control strategies are still required to ensure food safety and safeguard public health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isaia Symeonidou
- Laboratory of Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases, School of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece; (I.S.); (G.S.)
| | - Georgios Sioutas
- Laboratory of Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases, School of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece; (I.S.); (G.S.)
| | - Thomai Lazou
- Laboratory of Hygiene of Foods of Animal Origin—Veterinary Public Health, School of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece;
| | - Athanasios I. Gelasakis
- Laboratory of Anatomy and Physiology of Farm Animals, Department of Animal Science, School of Animal Biosciences, Agricultural University of Athens, 11855 Athens, Greece;
| | - Elias Papadopoulos
- Laboratory of Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases, School of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece; (I.S.); (G.S.)
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9
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Zhu S, VanWormer E, Martínez-López B, Bahia-Oliveira LMG, DaMatta RA, Rodrigues PS, Shapiro K. Quantitative Risk Assessment of Oocyst Versus Bradyzoite Foodborne Transmission of Toxoplasma gondii in Brazil. Pathogens 2023; 12:870. [PMID: 37513717 PMCID: PMC10384504 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens12070870] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2023] [Revised: 06/16/2023] [Accepted: 06/18/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii is a globally distributed zoonotic protozoan parasite. Infection with T. gondii can cause congenital toxoplasmosis in developing fetuses and acute outbreaks in the general population, and the disease burden is especially high in South America. Prior studies found that the environmental stage of T. gondii, oocysts, is an important source of infection in Brazil; however, no studies have quantified this risk relative to other parasite stages. We developed a Bayesian quantitative risk assessment (QRA) to estimate the relative attribution of the two primary parasite stages (bradyzoite and oocyst) that can be transmitted in foods to people in Brazil. Oocyst contamination in fruits and greens contributed significantly more to overall estimated T. gondii infections than bradyzoite-contaminated foods (beef, pork, poultry). In sensitivity analysis, treatment, i.e., cooking temperature for meat and washing efficiency for produce, most strongly affected the estimated toxoplasmosis incidence rate. Due to the lack of regional food contamination prevalence data and the high level of uncertainty in many model parameters, this analysis provides an initial estimate of the relative importance of food products. Important knowledge gaps for oocyst-borne infections were identified and can drive future studies to improve risk assessments and effective policy actions to reduce human toxoplasmosis in Brazil.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sophie Zhu
- Department of Pathology, Microbiology and Immunology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, CA 95616, USA
| | - Elizabeth VanWormer
- School of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University of Nebraska, Lincoln, NE 68588, USA
- School of Natural Resources, University of Nebraska, Lincoln, NE 68588, USA
| | - Beatriz Martínez-López
- Department of Medicine and Epidemiology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, CA 95616, USA
| | | | - Renato Augusto DaMatta
- Laboratory of Cell and Tissue Biology, Universidade Estadual do Norte Fluminense, Campos dos Goytacazes, Rio de Janeiro 28013-602, Brazil
| | - Pedro Souto Rodrigues
- Laboratory of Cell and Tissue Biology, Universidade Estadual do Norte Fluminense, Campos dos Goytacazes, Rio de Janeiro 28013-602, Brazil
| | - Karen Shapiro
- Department of Pathology, Microbiology and Immunology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, CA 95616, USA
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10
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Foodborne Parasites and Their Complex Life Cycles Challenging Food Safety in Different Food Chains. Foods 2022; 12:foods12010142. [PMID: 36613359 PMCID: PMC9818752 DOI: 10.3390/foods12010142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2022] [Revised: 12/20/2022] [Accepted: 12/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Zoonotic foodborne parasites often represent complex, multi host life cycles with parasite stages in the hosts, but also in the environment. This manuscript aims to provide an overview of important zoonotic foodborne parasites, with a focus on the different food chains in which parasite stages may occur. We have chosen some examples of meat-borne parasites occurring in livestock (Taenia spp., Trichinella spp. and Toxoplasma gondii), as well as Fasciola spp., an example of a zoonotic parasite of livestock, but transmitted to humans via contaminated vegetables or water, covering the 'farm to fork' food chain; and meat-borne parasites occurring in wildlife (Trichinella spp., Toxoplasma gondii), covering the 'forest to fork' food chain. Moreover, fish-borne parasites (Clonorchis spp., Opisthorchis spp. and Anisakidae) covering the 'pond/ocean/freshwater to fork' food chain are reviewed. The increased popularity of consumption of raw and ready-to-eat meat, fish and vegetables may pose a risk for consumers, since most post-harvest processing measures do not always guarantee the complete removal of parasite stages or their effective inactivation. We also highlight the impact of increasing contact between wildlife, livestock and humans on food safety. Risk based approaches, and diagnostics and control/prevention tackled from an integrated, multipathogen and multidisciplinary point of view should be considered as well.
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Hsu CW, Wang PJ, Huang PY, Lien CY, Wu LH, Lai YH, Guo JC, Chang YC, Cheng CH, Chang HW. Molecular and serological detection of Toxoplasma gondii infection in mammals in the Taipei Zoo. Zoonoses Public Health 2022; 69:904-914. [PMID: 35818968 DOI: 10.1111/zph.12987] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2022] [Revised: 06/25/2022] [Accepted: 06/27/2022] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
Toxoplasmosis caused by Toxoplasma gondii affects both conservation and public health efforts. In the Taipei Zoo, toxoplasmosis was diagnosed in ring-tailed lemurs and a meerkat in 2019 while a freeze-thaw meat strategy had been applied to carnivores before the event. To investigate the possible risk factors associated with T. gondii infection in the Taipei Zoo, 179 veterinary visiting mammals from 2019-2021 and six stray cats were included to detect anti-T. gondii IgG and IgM in their serum via ELISA, and T. gondii in their faeces and blood via PCR. Although the overall T. gondii IgG seroprevalence was 33.5% and PCR positivity was 16.2% in the zoo mammals, the correlation between T. gondii PCR and systemic IgG results was low. An omnivorous diet (adjusted OR = 0.4; 95% CI: 0.2-1.0), a herbivorous diet (adjusted OR = 3.2; 95% CI: 1.1-9.6), and animals in the Conservation Area where stray cats appeared (adjusted OR = 18.3; 95% CI: 3.9-85.9) were independent risk factors for T. gondii infection. The low T. gondii-specific IgM positivity (0.6%) suggests that most animals did not have acute T. gondii infection. In conclusion, our findings indirectly support that feeding frozen meat to carnivores, cleaning fresh food, and restricting access to stray cats to prevent faecal contaminants could prevent animals from T. gondii exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chin-Wei Hsu
- Graduate Institute of Molecular and Comparative Pathobiology, School of Veterinary Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Yen-Chen Chang
- Graduate Institute of Molecular and Comparative Pathobiology, School of Veterinary Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | | | - Hui-Wen Chang
- Graduate Institute of Molecular and Comparative Pathobiology, School of Veterinary Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
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12
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Zhai B, Xie S, Peng J, Qiu Y, Liu Y, Zhu X, He J, Zhang J. Glycosylation Analysis of Feline Small Intestine Following Toxoplasma gondii Infection. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:ani12202858. [PMID: 36290246 PMCID: PMC9597833 DOI: 10.3390/ani12202858] [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: 09/03/2022] [Revised: 10/12/2022] [Accepted: 10/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Toxoplasma gondii has a serious impact on public health and the economic development of animal husbandry. Glycosylation, especially N-glycosylation, the pattern modification of proteins, is closely related to the biological functions of proteins, and our study used it to analyze glycosylation alterations in the small intestine of cats infected with T. gondii. The results of the present study showed that 56 glycosylated peptides were upregulated and 37 glycosylated peptides were downregulated. Additionally, we also identified eight N-glycosylated proteins of T. gondii including eight N-glycopeptides and eight N-glycosylation sites. Moreover, the protein eEF2 and its corresponding peptide sequence were identified, with GO terms (i.e., cellular process and metabolic process, cell and cell part, and catalytic activity) that were significantly enriched in the T. gondii MAPK pathway. In addition, the Clusters of Orthologous Groups of proteins (COG) function prediction results showed that posttranslational modification, protein turnover, and chaperones (11%) had the highest enrichment for T. gondii. The host proteins ICAM-1 and PPT1 and the endoplasmic reticulum stress pathway may play an important role in the glycosylation of T. gondii-infected hosts. Our study may provide a new target for T. gondii detection to prevent the spread of T. gondii oocysts in the future. Abstract Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii) is responsible for severe human and livestock diseases, huge economic losses, and adversely affects the health of the public and the development of animal husbandry. Glycosylation is a common posttranslational modification of proteins in eukaryotes, and N-glycosylation is closely related to the biological functions of proteins. However, glycosylation alterations in the feline small intestine following T. gondii infection have not been reported. In this study, the experimental group was intragastrically challenged with 600 brain cysts of the Prugniuad (Pru) strain that were collected from infected mice. The cats’ intestinal epithelial tissues were harvested at 10 days post-infection and then sent for protein glycosylation analysis. High-performance liquid chromatography coupled to tandem mass spectrometry was used to analyze the glycosylation alterations in the small intestine of cats infected with T. gondii. The results of the present study showed that 56 glycosylated peptides were upregulated and 37 glycosylated peptides were downregulated in the feline small intestine infected by T. gondii. Additionally, we also identified eight N-glycosylated proteins of T. gondii including eight N-glycopeptides and eight N-glycosylation sites. The protein A0A086JND6_TOXGO (eEF2) and its corresponding peptide sequence were identified in T. gondii infection. Some special GO terms (i.e., cellular process and metabolic process, cell and cell part, and catalytic activity) were significantly enriched, and the Clusters of Orthologous Groups of proteins (COG) function prediction results showed that posttranslational modification, protein turnover, and chaperones (11%) had the highest enrichment for T. gondii. Interestingly, eEF2, a protein of T. gondii, is also involved in the significantly enriched T. gondii MAPK pathway. The host proteins ICAM-1 and PPT1 and the endoplasmic reticulum stress pathway may play an important role in the glycosylation of Toxoplasma-infected hosts. This is the first report showing that T. gondii oocysts can undergo N-glycosylation in the definitive host and that eEF2 is involved, which may provide a new target for T. gondii detection to prevent the spread of T. gondii oocysts in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bintao Zhai
- Key Laboratory of Veterinary Pharmaceutical Development, Lanzhou Institute of Husbandry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Ministry of Agriculture, Lanzhou 730050, China
- State Key Laboratory of Veterinary Etiological Biology, Key Laboratory of Veterinary Parasitology of Gansu Province, Lanzhou Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Lanzhou 730046, China
| | - Shichen Xie
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Shanxi Agricultural University, Jinzhong 030801, China
- Research Center for Parasites & Vectors, College of Veterinary Medicine, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha 410128, China
| | - Junjie Peng
- State Key Laboratory of Veterinary Etiological Biology, Key Laboratory of Veterinary Parasitology of Gansu Province, Lanzhou Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Lanzhou 730046, China
| | - Yanhua Qiu
- Key Laboratory of Veterinary Pharmaceutical Development, Lanzhou Institute of Husbandry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Ministry of Agriculture, Lanzhou 730050, China
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Xianyang 712100, China
| | - Yang Liu
- College of Life Science, Ningxia University, Yinchuan 750021, China
| | - Xingquan Zhu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Shanxi Agricultural University, Jinzhong 030801, China
- Research Center for Parasites & Vectors, College of Veterinary Medicine, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha 410128, China
- Key Laboratory of Veterinary Public Health of Yunnan Province, College of Veterinary Medicine, Yunnan Agricultural University, Kunming 650201, China
| | - Junjun He
- Key Laboratory of Veterinary Public Health of Yunnan Province, College of Veterinary Medicine, Yunnan Agricultural University, Kunming 650201, China
- Correspondence: (J.H.); (J.Z.)
| | - Jiyu Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Veterinary Pharmaceutical Development, Lanzhou Institute of Husbandry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Ministry of Agriculture, Lanzhou 730050, China
- Correspondence: (J.H.); (J.Z.)
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Tucker MS, Khan A, Jenkins MC, Dubey JP, Rosenthal BM. Hastening Progress in Cyclospora Requires Studying Eimeria Surrogates. Microorganisms 2022; 10:1977. [PMID: 36296256 PMCID: PMC9608778 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms10101977] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2022] [Revised: 09/16/2022] [Accepted: 10/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Cyclospora cayetanensis is an enigmatic human parasite that sickens thousands of people worldwide. The scarcity of research material and lack of any animal model or cell culture system slows research, denying the produce industry, epidemiologists, and regulatory agencies of tools that might aid diagnosis, risk assessment, and risk abatement. Fortunately, related species offer a strong foundation when used as surrogates to study parasites of this type. Species of Eimeria lend themselves especially well as surrogates for C. cayetanensis. Those Eimeria that infect poultry can be produced in abundance, share many biological features with Cyclospora, pose no risk to the health of researchers, and can be studied in their natural hosts. Here, we overview the actual and potential uses of such surrogates to advance understanding of C. cayetanensis biology, diagnostics, control, and genomics, focusing on opportunities to improve prevention, surveillance, risk assessment, and risk reduction. Studying Eimeria surrogates accelerates progress, closing important research gaps and refining promising tools for producers and food safety regulators to monitor and ameliorate the food safety risks imposed by this emerging, enigmatic parasite.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Benjamin M. Rosenthal
- Animal Parasitic Disease Laboratory, Beltsville Agricultural Research Center, Agricultural Research Service, United States Department of Agriculture, BARC-East, Beltsville, MD 20705, USA
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Toxoplasma gondii in Foods: Prevalence, Control, and Safety. Foods 2022; 11:foods11162542. [PMID: 36010541 PMCID: PMC9407268 DOI: 10.3390/foods11162542] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2022] [Revised: 08/17/2022] [Accepted: 08/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii is an obligate intracellular parasite that causes toxoplasmosis, with approximately one third of the population around the world seropositive. The consumption of contaminated food is the main source of infection. These include meat products with T. gondii tissue cysts, and dairy products with tachyzoites. Recently, contamination has been detected in fresh products with oocysts and marine products. Despite the great health problems that are caused by T. gondii, currently there are no standardized methods for its detection in the food industry. In this review, we analyze the current detection methods, the prevalence of T. gondii in different food products, and the control measures. The main detection methods are bioassays, cell culture, molecular and microscopic techniques, and serological methods, but some of these do not have applicability in the food industry. As a result, emerging techniques are being developed that are aimed at the detection of multiple parasites simultaneously that would make their application more efficient in the industry. Since the prevalence of this parasite is high in many products (meat and milk, marine products, and vegetables), it is necessary to standardize detection methods, as well as implement control measures.
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Protozoa as the “Underdogs” for Microbiological Quality Evaluation of Fresh Vegetables. APPLIED SCIENCES-BASEL 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/app12147145] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
The monitoring of the microbial quality of fresh products in the industrial environment has mainly focused on bacterial indicators. Protozoa, such as Giardia duodenalis, Cryptosporidium spp., Toxoplasma gondii, and Cyclospora cayetanensis, are routinely excluded from detection and surveillance systems, despite guidelines and regulations that support the need for tracking and monitoring these pathogens in fresh food products. Previous studies performed by our laboratory, within the scope of the SafeConsume project, clearly indicated that consumption of fresh produce may be a source of T. gondii, thus posing a risk for the contraction of toxoplasmosis for susceptible consumers. Therefore, preliminary work was performed in order to assess the microbiological quality of vegetables, highlighting not only bacteria (Escherichia. coli, Listeria monocytogenes, and Salmonella spp.), but also the zoonotic protozoa G. duodenalis and Cryptosporidium spp. Although all samples were found to be acceptable based on bacteriological parameters, cysts of G. duodenalis and oocysts of Cryptosporidium spp. were observed in vegetables. Moreover, it was possible to genetically characterize G. duodenalis positive samples as assemblage A, a genotype that poses risks to human health. Although these are preliminary results, they highlight the need to include protozoa in the microbiological criteria for foodstuffs, as required by EU Law No. 1441/2007, and to improve inactivation and removal procedures of (oo)cysts in fresh produce and water.
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16
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Onyeaka H, Nwabor O, Jang S, Obileke K, Hart A, Anumudu C, Miri T. Sous vide processing: a viable approach for the assurance of microbial food safety. JOURNAL OF THE SCIENCE OF FOOD AND AGRICULTURE 2022; 102:3503-3512. [PMID: 35218028 PMCID: PMC9313622 DOI: 10.1002/jsfa.11836] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2021] [Revised: 01/05/2022] [Accepted: 02/26/2022] [Indexed: 05/14/2023]
Abstract
As consumer needs change, innovative food processing techniques are being developed that have minimal impact on food quality and ensure its microbiological safety. Sous vide (SV) is an emerging technology of cooking foods in vacuum pouches at specific temperatures, which results in even heat distribution. Presented here is an overview of the current state of the art in the application of SV techniques for processing and preserving foods. Unlike the conventional thermal food processing approach, the precise nature of the SV method improves food quality, nutrition and shelf-life while destroying microorganisms. Foods processed by SV are usually subjected to temperatures between 50 and 100 °C. Although sufficient for food preparation/processing, its effectiveness in eliminating microbial pathogens, including viruses, parasites, vegetative and spore forms of bacteria, is limited. However, the inactivation of spore-forming microbes can be enhanced by combining the technique with other non-thermal methods that exert negligible impact on the nutritional, flavour and sensory characteristics of foods. In addition to exploring the mechanism of action of SV technology, the challenges related to its implementation in the food industry are also discussed. SV method potential, applications, and impacts on spore-forming microbes and spore inactivation are explored in this review. Through the debate and discussion presented, further research and industrial applications of this food processing method could be guided. © 2022 The Authors. Journal of The Science of Food and Agriculture published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Helen Onyeaka
- School of Chemical EngineeringUniversity of BirminghamEdgbastonUK
| | - Ozioma Nwabor
- Natural Products Research Center of Excellence, Division of Biological Science, Faculty of SciencePrince of Songkla UniversityHat YaiSongkhlaThailand
| | - Siwon Jang
- School of Chemical EngineeringUniversity of BirminghamEdgbastonUK
| | - KeChrist Obileke
- Renewable and Sustainable EnergyUniversity of Fort HareAliceEastern CapeSouth Africa
| | - Abarasi Hart
- Department of Chemical and Biological EngineeringThe University of SheffieldSheffieldUK
| | | | - Taghi Miri
- School of Chemical EngineeringUniversity of BirminghamEdgbastonUK
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17
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Kulawik P, Rathod NB, Ozogul Y, Ozogul F, Zhang W. Recent developments in the use of cold plasma, high hydrostatic pressure, and pulsed electric fields on microorganisms and viruses in seafood. Crit Rev Food Sci Nutr 2022; 63:9716-9730. [PMID: 35603708 DOI: 10.1080/10408398.2022.2077298] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Non-thermal processing methods, such as cold plasma (CP), high pressure processing (HPP) and pulsed electric fields (PEF), have been proposed for natural and fresh-like foods to inactivate microorganisms at nearly-ambient or moderate temperature. Since natural, safe, and healthy foods with longer shelf-life are increasingly demanded, these requests are challenging to fulfill by using current thermal processing technologies. Thus, novel preservation technologies based on non-thermal processing methods are required. The aim of this article is to provide recent developments in maintaining seafood safety via CP, HHP, and PEF technologies, as well as their mechanisms of action regarding contamination with food-borne microorganisms. Their application to control parasites, spores and the possibility to eradicate the hazard of SARS-CoV-2 transmission through seafood products are also discussed. CP, HHP, and PEF have been applied to inactivate food-borne microorganisms in the seafood industry. However, the drawbacks for each emerging technology have also been reported. To ensure safety and maintain quality of seafood products, the combination of these processing techniques with natural antimicrobial agents or existing thermal methods may be more applicable in the case of the seafood industry. Further studies are required to examine the effects of these methods on viruses, parasites, and SARS-CoV-2 in seafood.
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Affiliation(s)
- Piotr Kulawik
- Department of Animal Products Technology, Faculty of Food Technology, University of Agriculture, Kraków, Poland
| | - Nikheel Bhojraj Rathod
- Department of Post-Harvest Management of Meat, Poultry and Fish, Post Graduate Institute of Post-Harvest Management, Raigad, Maharashtra, India
| | - Yesim Ozogul
- Department of Seafood Processing Technology, Faculty of Fisheries, Cukurova University, Adana, Turkey
| | - Fatih Ozogul
- Department of Seafood Processing Technology, Faculty of Fisheries, Cukurova University, Adana, Turkey
| | - Wangang Zhang
- College of Food Science and Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, China
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18
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Skaastrup KN, Astvad KMT, Arendrup MC, Jemec GBE, Lindhardt Saunte DM. Disinfection trials with terbinafine-susceptible and -resistant dermatophytes. Mycoses 2022; 65:741-746. [PMID: 35535729 PMCID: PMC10138727 DOI: 10.1111/myc.13468] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2022] [Revised: 05/03/2022] [Accepted: 05/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Treatment of tinea pedis and onychomycosis is complicated by high rates of reinfection and the emergence of terbinafine-resistant strains of Trichophyton spp. Effective disinfection of contaminated socks is an important measure. Appropriate washing reduces the risk of reinfection and is paramount in treating tinea pedis and onychomycosis. OBJECTIVES The aim of this study is to describe the effect of commonplace disinfection methods using socks pieces inoculated with terbinafine-resistant or terbinafine-susceptible isolates of Trichophyton spp. METHODS Sock pieces were inoculated with seven terbinafine-resistant isolates of Trichophyton spp. with known mutations in the SQLE-gene (T. rubrum (n=3), T. interdigitale (n=1), and T. indotineae (n=3)) and six terbinafine-susceptible isolates of Trichophyton spp. (T. rubrum (n=3) and T. interdigitale (n=3)). Methods of disinfection included soaking in a quaternary ammonium (QAC) detergent (0.5, 2, and 24 hours), freezing at -20°C (0.5, 12, and 24 hours), domestic washing (40°C with detergent), and steam washing (40°C with detergent). Sock pieces were cultured for 4 weeks following disinfection. The primary end point was no growth at the end of week 4. RESULTS Soaking in QAC-detergent for 24 hours procured at disinfectant rate of 100% (13/13), whilst soaking in 0.5 and 2 hours had a disinfectant rate of 46% (6/13) and 85% (11/13), respectively. Domestic washing (40°C with detergent) produced a disinfectant rate of 7.7% (1/13). Freezing at -20°C (0.5, 12, and 24 hours) and steam washing (40°C with detergent) had no disinfectant properties. CONCLUSIONS Soaking socks contaminated with dermatophytes in a QAC-detergent for 24 hours disinfects socks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristoffer Nagy Skaastrup
- Dept. of Dermatology, Zealand University Hospital, Roskilde, Denmark.,Mycology Unit, Department for Microbiology and Infection Control, Statens Serum Institut, Denmark
| | | | - Maiken Cavling Arendrup
- Mycology Unit, Department for Microbiology and Infection Control, Statens Serum Institut, Denmark.,Dept. of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health Science, University of Copenhagen, Denmark.,Dept. of Clinical Microbiology, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Gregor Borut Ernst Jemec
- Dept. of Dermatology, Zealand University Hospital, Roskilde, Denmark.,Dept. of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health Science, University of Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Ditte Marie Lindhardt Saunte
- Dept. of Dermatology, Zealand University Hospital, Roskilde, Denmark.,Mycology Unit, Department for Microbiology and Infection Control, Statens Serum Institut, Denmark.,Dept. of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health Science, University of Copenhagen, Denmark
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Gracia MJ, Lázaro R, Pérez-Arquillué C, Bayarri S. Effect of Domestic Freezing on the Viability of Toxoplasma gondii in Raw and Dry-Cured Ham from Experimentally Infected Pigs. J Food Prot 2022; 85:626-631. [PMID: 34935930 DOI: 10.4315/jfp-21-281] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2021] [Accepted: 12/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
ABSTRACT Toxoplasma gondii is the causative agent of the parasitic disease toxoplasmosis, which is an important foodborne zoonosis. Eating undercooked meat of infected animals has been considered the major transmission route of T. gondii to humans. The present study was conducted to evaluate the efficacy of domestic freezing for inactivation of T. gondii bradyzoites in ham. Raw and dry-cured ham from a pig experimentally inoculated orally with 4,000 oocysts of T. gondii VEG strain was subjected to domestic freezing at -20°C for up to 14 days. The effect was evaluated by bioassay in mice and a quantitative PCR assay. In raw and dry-cured ham, -20°C for 7 and 14 days, respectively, did not inactivate T. gondii. More studies are needed to find the correct temperature and time needed to render the bradyzoites noninfectious for humans. Meanwhile, the recommendations for freezing to inactivate T. gondii in raw or dry-cured meats must be revisited because domestic freezing conditions do not reduce the risk of infection. HIGHLIGHTS
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Affiliation(s)
- María J Gracia
- Instituto Agroalimentario de Aragón, Veterinary Faculty, Universidad de Zaragoza, 50013 Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Regina Lázaro
- Instituto Agroalimentario de Aragón, Veterinary Faculty, Universidad de Zaragoza, 50013 Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Consuelo Pérez-Arquillué
- Instituto Agroalimentario de Aragón, Veterinary Faculty, Universidad de Zaragoza, 50013 Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Susana Bayarri
- Instituto Agroalimentario de Aragón, Veterinary Faculty, Universidad de Zaragoza, 50013 Zaragoza, Spain
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López Ureña NM, Chaudhry U, Calero Bernal R, Cano Alsua S, Messina D, Evangelista F, Betson M, Lalle M, Jokelainen P, Ortega Mora LM, Álvarez García G. Contamination of Soil, Water, Fresh Produce, and Bivalve Mollusks with Toxoplasma gondii Oocysts: A Systematic Review. Microorganisms 2022; 10:517. [PMID: 35336093 PMCID: PMC8954419 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms10030517] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2022] [Revised: 02/13/2022] [Accepted: 02/25/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii is a major foodborne pathogen capable of infecting all warm-blooded animals, including humans. Although oocyst-associated toxoplasmosis outbreaks have been documented, the relevance of the environmental transmission route remains poorly investigated. Thus, we carried out an extensive systematic review on T. gondii oocyst contamination of soil, water, fresh produce, and mollusk bivalves, following the PRISMA guidelines. Studies published up to the end of 2020 were searched for in public databases and screened. The reference sections of the selected articles were examined to identify additional studies. A total of 102 out of 3201 articles were selected: 34 articles focused on soil, 40 focused on water, 23 focused on fresh produce (vegetables/fruits), and 21 focused on bivalve mollusks. Toxoplasma gondii oocysts were found in all matrices worldwide, with detection rates ranging from 0.09% (1/1109) to 100% (8/8) using bioassay or PCR-based detection methods. There was a high heterogeneity (I2 = 98.9%), which was influenced by both the sampling strategy (e.g., sampling site and sample type, sample composition, sample origin, season, number of samples, cat presence) and methodology (recovery and detection methods). Harmonized approaches are needed for the detection of T. gondii in different environmental matrices in order to obtain robust and comparable results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nadia María López Ureña
- SALUVET Research Group, Animal Health Department, Veterinary Faculty, Complutense University of Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain; (N.M.L.U.); (R.C.B.); (L.M.O.M.)
| | - Umer Chaudhry
- Veterinary Epidemiology and Public Health Department, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Surrey, Guildford GU2 7XH, UK; (U.C.); or (D.M.); (F.E.); (M.B.)
| | - Rafael Calero Bernal
- SALUVET Research Group, Animal Health Department, Veterinary Faculty, Complutense University of Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain; (N.M.L.U.); (R.C.B.); (L.M.O.M.)
| | - Santiago Cano Alsua
- Computing Services, Research Support Center, Complutense University of Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain;
| | - Davide Messina
- Veterinary Epidemiology and Public Health Department, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Surrey, Guildford GU2 7XH, UK; (U.C.); or (D.M.); (F.E.); (M.B.)
- Division of Veterinary Clinical Science, School of Veterinary Medicine and Science, University of Nottingham, Sutton Bonington, Loughborough LE12 5RD, UK
| | - Francisco Evangelista
- Veterinary Epidemiology and Public Health Department, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Surrey, Guildford GU2 7XH, UK; (U.C.); or (D.M.); (F.E.); (M.B.)
| | - Martha Betson
- Veterinary Epidemiology and Public Health Department, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Surrey, Guildford GU2 7XH, UK; (U.C.); or (D.M.); (F.E.); (M.B.)
| | - Marco Lalle
- Unit of Foodborne and Neglected Parasitic Diseases, Department of Infectious Diseases, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, 00161 Roma, Italy;
| | - Pikka Jokelainen
- Department of Bacteria, Parasites and Fungi, Infectious Disease Preparedness, Statens Serum Institute, University of Copenhagen, 2300 Copenhagen, Denmark;
| | - Luis Miguel Ortega Mora
- SALUVET Research Group, Animal Health Department, Veterinary Faculty, Complutense University of Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain; (N.M.L.U.); (R.C.B.); (L.M.O.M.)
| | - Gema Álvarez García
- SALUVET Research Group, Animal Health Department, Veterinary Faculty, Complutense University of Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain; (N.M.L.U.); (R.C.B.); (L.M.O.M.)
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A Review on Alaria alata, Toxoplasma gondii and Sarcocystis spp. in Mammalian Game Meat Consumed in Europe: Epidemiology, Risk Management and Future Directions. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:ani12030263. [PMID: 35158587 PMCID: PMC8833328 DOI: 10.3390/ani12030263] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2021] [Revised: 01/14/2022] [Accepted: 01/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary In many European countries, game meat consumption is related to the traditional hunting culture. Its demand and consumption are increasing, also due to the growing populations of wild ungulates. However, specific public health issues exist and should be taken into account. This review focuses on the causal agents, epidemiology, potential risk for human health and its management along the supply chain, including parasite detection at slaughtering and inactivation in meat, of three parasites (Alaria alata, Toxoplasma gondii and Sarcocystis spp.), which can be transmitted by the main mammalian game meat species in the EU: wild boar (Sus scrofa), red deer (Cervus elaphus), roe deer (Capreolus capreolus), fallow deer (Dama dama), Alpine chamois (Rupicapra rupicapra), moose (Alces alces), hare (Lepus europaeus) and wild rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus). By presenting the main issues and knowledge gaps, this study aims to contribute to an improved control supporting the risk analysis process. Abstract Game meat is increasingly appreciated and consumed in Europe, also due to the growing population of wild ungulates. In addition to interesting nutritional properties and market opportunities, game meat is characterized by some specific public health issues. This review focuses on the etiology, epidemiology, public health aspects and risk management along the supply chain, including parasite detection at slaughtering and inactivation in meat, of three selected foodborne parasitic hazards (Alaria alata, Toxoplasma gondii and Sarcocystis spp.) in the main mammalian game meat species in the EU: wild boar (Sus scrofa), red deer (Cervus elaphus), roe deer (Capreolus capreolus), fallow deer (Dama dama), Alpine chamois (Rupicapra rupicapra), moose (Alces alces), hare (Lepus europaeus) and wild rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus). The presented data point out the main issues, and knowledge gaps as well as the potential for improved control in order to contribute to the risk analysis process. To pursue an effective management of these parasitic zoonoses, awareness raising should involve all figures in the supply chain, including hunters, restaurateurs and consumers. Human behaviour and the lack of knowledge regarding meat borne parasitic zoonoses and the health risks they pose seem to be the most important factors responsible for human infections. However, detection methods, starting from the sampling procedure, should be further developed and standardized in order to improve the collection of accurate and up-to-date epidemiological data.
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Bayani M, Kalantari N, Esmailzadeh S, Ghaffari S, Mahjoub S, Ghofrani F, Ghaffari T. An evaluation of the level of testosterone, DHEA and prolactin among Toxoplasma gondii infected and uninfected infertile couples attending to Fatima Al-Zahra infertility treatment center, Babol, Northern Iran. ACTA FACULTATIS MEDICAE NAISSENSIS 2022. [DOI: 10.5937/afmnai39-31982] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction/Aims: Toxoplasmosis modifies various hormones and cytokines in the infected hosts which may result in several disorders. This study was conducted to assess testosterone, DHEA, and prolactin concentration levels among Toxoplasma gondii infected and uninfected infertile couples. Methods: Blood samples were collected and sera were separated. The sera were analyzed for the detection of anti-Toxoplasma (IgG& IgM) antibodies using commercial ELISA kits. The level of DHEA was measured by ELISA and the levels of testosterone and prolactin were evaluated by enzyme-linked fluorescent assay (ELFA, VIDAS). Results: The overall seroprevalence of toxoplasmosis was 58.0% (218/376). Among women, 56.9% (107/188) and 6.5% (7/107) were positive for anti-T. gondii antibodies IgG and IgM, respectively. The IgG and IgM were detected in the sera of 111/188 (59.0%) and 9/111 (8.1%) in male subjects, respectively. A positive association was observed between T. gondii infection and the upper and lower ranges of the normal value of testosterone in males (x 2 = 6.8, p = 0.033) but not in females (x 2 = 0.62, p = 0.99). A positive correlation was seen between toxoplasmosis and the upper and lower ranges of the normal value of prolactin in females (x 2 = 6.5, p = 0.039) but not in male cases (x 2 = 1.06, p = 0.59). Conclusion: Our results demonstrated no statistically significant differences between the level of sexual hormones between Toxoplasma-infected individuals and Toxoplasma-free subjects suffering from infertility. These findings suggest that further studies should be performed on infertile cases with large sample sizes in a case-control format.
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Kurth K, Jiang T, Muller L, Su C, Gerhold RW. Toxoplasma gondii contamination at an animal agriculture facility: Environmental, agricultural animal, and wildlife contamination indicator evaluation. Int J Parasitol Parasites Wildl 2021; 16:191-198. [PMID: 34667717 PMCID: PMC8506965 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijppaw.2021.09.009] [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: 08/12/2021] [Revised: 09/30/2021] [Accepted: 09/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii is a parasite of significant public health importance. We attempted to detect T. gondii contamination and assess advantages and disadvantages of contamination indicators through surveilling soil, wildlife, cats (Felis catus), and cows (Bos taurus) on a farm in Tennessee, U.S. in 2016 and 2017. Twenty-two soil samples were collected from the farm and subjected to oocyst flotation, DNA extraction, and polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) targeting 18S ribosomal RNA (18S rRNA) gene to detect and identify T. gondii. Three samples (13.6%) were positive for the parasite; however, T. gondii DNA was not consistently detected from repeated tests. Blood samples were collected from small mammals, cats, and mesopredators live-trapped on the farm, and serum from 30 of the farm's cows were obtained. Serological testing by the modified agglutination test (MAT; cutoff 1:50) found 2.5% (1/40) of small mammals, 52.9% (9/17) of raccoons (Procyon lotor), and 50% (1/2) of domestic cats were seropositive for T. gondii antibodies. No antibodies were found in 16 opossums (Didelphis virginiana), two skunks (Mephitis mephitis), and 30 cows. Small mammal tissue samples were subjected to PCR-RFLP detection. Four out of 29 (13.7%) tissue samples were positive for T. gondii; however, T. gondii DNA was not consistently detected during repeated PCR-RFLP testing. Our results indicate the ability to detect T. gondii varies greatly by contamination indicator. We found detection of soil oocysts to be challenging, and results suggest limited utility of the method performed. The ability to detect T. gondii in animals was highly variable among species. Our research emphasizes the importance of a holistic approach when surveilling for T. gondii to compensate for shortcomings of each contamination indicator. Future research should be conducted to further investigate the most effective T. gondii surveillance methods and species with increased sample sizes at other agricultural facilities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katherine Kurth
- Department of Biomedical and Diagnostic Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, The University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN, 37996, USA
- Department of Forestry, Wildlife, and Fisheries, The University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN, 37996, USA
| | - Tiantian Jiang
- Department of Microbiology, The University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN, 37996, USA
| | - Lisa Muller
- Department of Forestry, Wildlife, and Fisheries, The University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN, 37996, USA
| | - Chunlei Su
- Department of Microbiology, The University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN, 37996, USA
| | - Richard W. Gerhold
- Department of Biomedical and Diagnostic Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, The University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN, 37996, USA
- Department of Forestry, Wildlife, and Fisheries, The University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN, 37996, USA
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Ahmed F, Cappai MG, Morrone S, Cavallo L, Berlinguer F, Dessì G, Tamponi C, Scala A, Varcasia A. Raw meat based diet (RMBD) for household pets as potential door opener to parasitic load of domestic and urban environment. Revival of understated zoonotic hazards? A review. One Health 2021; 13:100327. [PMID: 34584928 PMCID: PMC8455362 DOI: 10.1016/j.onehlt.2021.100327] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2021] [Revised: 09/11/2021] [Accepted: 09/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
RMBD (acronym of Raw Meat Based Diet) and BARF diets (acronym for Biologically Appropriate Raw Food or Bones and Raw Food) account dietary regimens based on raw ingredients (including raw meat), popular in pet feeding. Animal tissues and organs as well as other uncooked ingredients are more and more popularly used by pet owners to feed household pets. However, the increased risk of exposure to microbiological and parasitic agents poses the question as to whether such diets may be recommendable to be handled and offered to domestic cats and dogs co-living in domestic and urban environment. Above all, the threat of human and animal infections by parasites from raw meat fed to pets is not sufficiently explored and tracked, meanwhile deserving particular surveillance, instead. At this regard, raw meat feeding to pets may represent a route of exposure to the increased risk of environmental load. In fact, some parasites typically found in rural environment can be given the chance to complete their life-cycle, for the closeness between definitive and intermediate hosts. This is of particular concern, as potentially infected pets serving as definitive hosts can become a continuous source of environmental diffusion of parasites, both at domestic and urban level. The handling of raw meat requires adequate knowledge and awareness of the hygienic principles to prevent the onset of disorders related to both manipulation by pet owners and uncooked food consumption by the pet. This review aimed to shed a comprehensive overview of the hygienic aspects related to raw pet feeding, as to handling of raw meat in domestic environment, with special emphasis on parasitic agents and related zoonotic hazards.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fahad Ahmed
- Animal Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases Institute, University of Sassari, Italy
- Chair of Animal Nutrition, University of Sassari, Italy
| | | | - Sarah Morrone
- Chair of Animal Nutrition, University of Sassari, Italy
| | - Lia Cavallo
- Animal Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases Institute, University of Sassari, Italy
| | - Fiammetta Berlinguer
- Chair of Animal Physiology of the Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Sassari, Italy
| | - Giorgia Dessì
- Animal Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases Institute, University of Sassari, Italy
| | - Claudia Tamponi
- Animal Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases Institute, University of Sassari, Italy
| | - Antonio Scala
- Animal Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases Institute, University of Sassari, Italy
| | - Antonio Varcasia
- Animal Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases Institute, University of Sassari, Italy
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Lactate dehydrogenase and malate dehydrogenase: Potential antiparasitic targets for drug development studies. Bioorg Med Chem 2021; 50:116458. [PMID: 34687983 DOI: 10.1016/j.bmc.2021.116458] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2021] [Revised: 09/27/2021] [Accepted: 10/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Parasitic diseases remain a major public health concern for humans, claiming millions of lives annually. Although different treatments are required for these diseases, drug usage is limited due to the development of resistance and toxicity, which necessitate alternative therapies. It has been shown in the literature that parasitic lactate dehydrogenases (LDH) and malate dehydrogenases (MDH) have unique pharmacological selective and specificity properties compared to other isoforms, thus highlighting them as viable therapeutic targets involved in aerobic and anaerobic glycolytic pathways. LDH and MDH are important therapeutic targets for invasive parasites because they play a critical role in the progression and development of parasitic diseases. Any strategy to impede these enzymes would be fatal to the parasites, paving the way to develop and discover novel antiparasitic agents. This review aims to highlight the importance of parasitic LDH and MDH as therapeutic drug targets in selected obligate apicoplast parasites. To the best of our knowledge, this review presents the first comprehensive review of LDH and MDH as potential antiparasitic targets for drug development studies.
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Prevalence of Toxoplasma gondii in retail fresh meat products from free-range chickens in Spain. J Vet Res 2021; 65:457-461. [PMID: 35111999 PMCID: PMC8775739 DOI: 10.2478/jvetres-2021-0052] [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: 03/14/2021] [Accepted: 09/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Toxoplasma gondii is one of the most prevalent zoonotic protozoan parasites worldwide and affects the vast majority of warm-blooded animal species, including humans. Postnatal infection in humans occurs through the ingestion of sporulated T. gondii oocysts or via the oral intake of parasite tissue cysts during the consumption of raw or undercooked meat. In this regard, given their high exposure to oocysts, chickens (Gallus domesticus) raised on the ground constitute a potential source of T. gondii. Material and Methods For the first time in Spain, a survey was undertaken in commercial retail free-range poultry. A total of 50 thighs from different animals were analysed. The samples were homogenised and an acid pepsin digestion procedure was applied prior to molecular analysis. Toxoplasma gondii DNA was isolated from meat by qPCR. Two sets of primers were used for DNA amplification targeting the specific sequence of a 529 bp repeat element and another set of primers was utilised for the surface antigen protein-1 gene. Results DNA extracted from 5 out of 50 tissue samples was positive for both genes by qPCR amplification. Conclusion The 10% prevalence of Toxoplasma infection found in commercial free-range chickens raises public health issues.
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Crotta M, Pellicioli L, Gaffuri A, Trogu T, Formenti N, Tranquillo V, Luzzago C, Ferrari N, Lanfranchi P. Analysis of seroprevalence data on Hepatitis E virus and Toxoplasma gondii in wild ungulates for the assessment of human exposure to zoonotic meat-borne pathogens. Food Microbiol 2021; 101:103890. [PMID: 34579849 DOI: 10.1016/j.fm.2021.103890] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2021] [Revised: 08/20/2021] [Accepted: 08/20/2021] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Seroprevalence data for Toxoplasma gondii and Hepatitis E virus (HEV) in wild boar (Sus scrofa), roe deer (Capreolus capreolus), red deer (Cervus elaphus), mouflon (Ovis aries/musimon) and chamois (Rupicapra rupicapra) hunted/culled in northern Italy were used to fit seroprevalence distributions describing the exposure and co-exposure of the species to the two pathogens. The higher proportion of T. gondii and HEV seropositive animals was observed in wild boars with point estimate seroprevalence of 49% (N = 331) and 15% (N = 326) respectively. Data allowed comparisons by area (pre-Alpine Vs Alpine environment) for roe deer, red deer and mouflons. Contrasts between the distributions describing the uncertainty in seroprevalence suggest roe deer, red deer and mouflons have higher probability of being seropositive to T. gondii in pre-Alps. When considering HEV, few seropositive animals were detected and contrasts were symmetrically centred to zero for roe deer and red deer; mouflons shown higher probability of being seropositive in Alpine environment. HEV seropositive animals also included chamois (P = 5.1%, N = 97) in the Alpine districts, confirming circulation of HEV in remote areas. Evidence of HEV and T. gondii co-exposure was limited except for wild boars where it was observed in 30 samples representing 60% of the overall HEV-positive samples. Seroprevalence data of single infection and co-infection are extremely useful to investigate circulation of zoonotic pathogens in wild animals and estimate the foodborne risk of human exposure, however, these type of data do not directly translate into the presence/absence of the pathogen in seropositive and seronegative animals. At benefit of future development of quantitative risk assessments aiming at estimating the risk of human infection/co-infection via consumption of game meat, we developed and made available an online application that allows estimating the probability of the pathogen(s) being present as a function of seroprevalence data.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matteo Crotta
- Veterinary Epidemiology, Economics and Public Health Group, Department of Pathobiology and Population Science, The Royal Veterinary College, UK
| | - Luca Pellicioli
- Dipartimento Veterinario e Sicurezza Degli Alimenti di Origine Animale, Agenzia Tutela Salute Bergamo, via Gallicciolli 4, 24121, Bergamo, Italy
| | - Alessandra Gaffuri
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale Della Lombardia e Dell'emilia Romagna "Bruno Ubertini", Sezione diagnostica di Bergamo, 24125, Bergamo, Italy
| | - Tiziana Trogu
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale Della Lombardia e Dell'emilia Romagna "Bruno Ubertini", 25124, Brescia, Italy
| | - Nicoletta Formenti
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale Della Lombardia e Dell'emilia Romagna "Bruno Ubertini", 25124, Brescia, Italy
| | - Vito Tranquillo
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale Della Lombardia e Dell'emilia Romagna "Bruno Ubertini", Sezione diagnostica di Bergamo, 24125, Bergamo, Italy
| | - Camilla Luzzago
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Università degli Studi di Milano, Via dell'Università, 6, 26900, Lodi, Italy; Coordinated Research Center ''EpiSoMI'', Università degli Studi di Milano, 20133, Milan, Italy
| | - Nicola Ferrari
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Università degli Studi di Milano, Via dell'Università, 6, 26900, Lodi, Italy; Coordinated Research Center ''EpiSoMI'', Università degli Studi di Milano, 20133, Milan, Italy.
| | - Paolo Lanfranchi
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Università degli Studi di Milano, Via dell'Università, 6, 26900, Lodi, Italy
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Papatsiros VG, Athanasiou LV, Kostoulas P, Giannakopoulos A, Tzika E, Billinis C. Toxoplasma gondii Infection in Swine: Implications for Public Health. Foodborne Pathog Dis 2021; 18:823-840. [PMID: 34491108 DOI: 10.1089/fpd.2021.0039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Toxoplasmosis, due to Toxoplasma gondii, is a parasitic disease with global importance. Among livestock, chronic T. gondii infection has been reported in higher rates in pigs and small ruminants, but with subclinical infections in case commonly encountered in pigs. Seroprevalence in the global pig population ranges according to the age or species of pigs, geographical distribution, production programs, and systems. Generally, T. gondii infections are noticed in low prevalence rates in conventional pig farms with high hygiene standards. In contrast, higher prevalence is common on free-ranging farms, outdoor or backyard small pig fams, as well as in farmed or hunted wild boars. The T. gondii average worldwide seroprevalence in pigs is reported to be 13% in Europe, 21% in Africa, 25% in North America, 21% in Asia, and 23% in South America. Human toxoplasmosis outbreaks have been correlated with the consumption of raw or undercooked meat, especially from infected pigs or wild boars, as well as of contaminated drinking water. The risk of infection in processed pork products is lower compared with fresh pork, as meat processing can reduce or inactivate T. gondii tissue cysts. Hence, the prevalence of T. gondii in the pig population may be a useful indicator of the risk of human toxoplasmosis associated with the consumption of pork products. The lack of obligatory screening methods at farm level for the detection of antibodies in farmed animals or the viable T. gondii in carcasses at slaughterhouse level increases the risk of contaminated pork or meat products. For this reason, the application of biosecurity and surveillance programs at farm level is very important to prevent a T. gondii infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vasileios G Papatsiros
- Clinic of Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, Karditsa, Greece
| | - Labrini V Athanasiou
- Clinic of Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, Karditsa, Greece
| | - Polychronis Kostoulas
- Laboratory of Epidemiology & Artificial Intelligence, Faculty of Public Health, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, Karditsa, Greece
| | - Alexios Giannakopoulos
- Department of Microbiology & Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, Karditsa, Greece
| | - Eleni Tzika
- Farm Animal Clinic, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, School of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Charalambos Billinis
- Department of Microbiology & Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, Karditsa, Greece
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Shurson GC, Urriola PE, van de Ligt JLG. Can we effectively manage parasites, prions, and pathogens in the global feed industry to achieve One Health? Transbound Emerg Dis 2021; 69:4-30. [PMID: 34171167 DOI: 10.1111/tbed.14205] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2021] [Revised: 06/14/2021] [Accepted: 06/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Prions and certain endoparasites, bacteria, and viruses are internationally recognized as types of disease-causing biological agents that can be transmitted from contaminated feed to animals. Historically, foodborne biological hazards such as prions (transmissible spongiform encephalopathy), endoparasites (Trichinella spiralis, Toxoplasma gondii), and pathogenic bacteria (Salmonella spp., Listeria monocytogenes, Escherichia coli O157, Clostridium spp., and Campylobacter spp.) were major food safety concerns from feeding uncooked or improperly heated animal-derived food waste and by-products. However, implementation of validated thermal processing conditions along with verifiable quality control procedures has been effective in enabling safe use of these feed materials in animal diets. More recently, the occurrence of global Porcine Epidemic Diarrhea Virus and African Swine Fever Virus epidemics, dependence on international feed ingredient supply chains, and the discovery that these viruses can survive in some feed ingredient matrices under environmental conditions of trans-oceanic shipments has created an urgent need to develop and implement rigorous biosecurity protocols that prevent and control animal viruses in feed ingredients. Implementation of verifiable risk-based preventive controls, traceability systems from origin to destination, and effective mitigation procedures is essential to minimize these food security, safety, and sustainability threats. Creating a new biosafety and biosecurity framework will enable convergence of the diverging One Health components involving low environmental impact and functional feed ingredients that are perceived as having elevated biosafety risks when used in animal feeds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gerald C Shurson
- Department of Animal Science, College of Food Agricultural and Natural Resource Sciences, University of Minnesota, St. Paul, Minnesota, USA
| | - Pedro E Urriola
- Department of Animal Science, College of Food Agricultural and Natural Resource Sciences, University of Minnesota, St. Paul, Minnesota, USA
| | - Jennifer L G van de Ligt
- Department of Veterinary Population Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Minnesota, St. Paul, Minnesota, USA
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30
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New perspective approaches in controlling fungi and mycotoxins in food using emerging and green technologies. Curr Opin Food Sci 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cofs.2020.12.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
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Sato AP, Goulart MDA, Konell AL, de Oliveira Koch M, da Fonseca FM, Morel AP, Locatelli-Dittrich R. Serosurvey of Toxoplasma gondii, Neospora caninum and Sarcocystis neurona in raptors and risk factor analysis. Parasitol Int 2021; 82:102312. [PMID: 33636361 DOI: 10.1016/j.parint.2021.102312] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2020] [Revised: 02/18/2021] [Accepted: 02/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Raptors are carnivorous birds with great hunting ability. Toxoplasma gondii, Neospora caninum and Sarcocystis spp. are intracellular Apicomplexan protozoans which infect a wide range of intermediate hosts, including birds. The aims of this study were to evaluate the serological reactivity of captive raptors serum to T. gondii, N. caninum and S. neurona antigens and identify possible risk factors associated with the infection. From August 2014 to September 2015, blood samples from 72 raptors were collected and serum samples were tested by immunofluorescence antibody test (IFAT). Antigen slides were prepared using tachyzoites of T. gondii and N. caninum and using merozoites of S. neurona. Serum samples were tested at the following cut-off dilutions: 1:16 for T. gondii and 1:50 for N. caninum and S. neurona. An anti-chicken IgY antibody conjugated with FITC was used as a secondary antibody at 1:50 dilution. Out of the 72 raptors serum tested by IFAT, 2.7% reacted to N. caninum, 8.3% to T. gondii and 11.1% to S. neurona antigens. The region in which the sample was collected, the reason the raptors were kept in captivity and diet were statistically associated with seropositivity to T. gondii and the use of the birds and diet were statistically associated with seropositivity to N. caninum and S. neurona (p ≤ 0.05). We highlight the occurrence of these protozoans in birds of prey and the importance of good hygiene and feeding management of these birds in captivity to reduce the risk of protozoal infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Paula Sato
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Federal University of Paraná, Rua dos Funcionários 1540, CEP 80035-050 Curitiba, Paraná, Brazil.
| | - Miúriel de Aquino Goulart
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul, av. Bento Gonçalves, 9090, CEP 91540-000 Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Aline Luiza Konell
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Federal University of Paraná, Rua dos Funcionários 1540, CEP 80035-050 Curitiba, Paraná, Brazil
| | - Marilia de Oliveira Koch
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Federal University of Paraná, Rua dos Funcionários 1540, CEP 80035-050 Curitiba, Paraná, Brazil
| | - Flávia Moreira da Fonseca
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Federal University of Paraná, Rua dos Funcionários 1540, CEP 80035-050 Curitiba, Paraná, Brazil
| | - Ana Paula Morel
- Hayabusa - Falconry Company and Environmental Consulting, Estrada da Carapina, 1001, CEP 95400-000 São Francisco de Paula, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Rosangela Locatelli-Dittrich
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Federal University of Paraná, Rua dos Funcionários 1540, CEP 80035-050 Curitiba, Paraná, Brazil
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Wei XY, Gong QL, Zeng A, Wang W, Wang Q, Zhang XX. Seroprevalence and risk factors of Toxoplasma gondii infection in goats in China from 2010 to 2020: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Prev Vet Med 2021; 186:105230. [PMID: 33348304 DOI: 10.1016/j.prevetmed.2020.105230] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2020] [Revised: 11/26/2020] [Accepted: 11/30/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii is a widely distributed protozoan parasite that can infect a variety of warm-blooded animals including humans and goats. This is the first meta-analysis to assess the overall seroprevalence and potential risk factors of T. gondii infection among goats in China. Databases including the VIP Chinese Journal Databases (VIP), the China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI) database, WanFang, ScienceDirect, and PubMed were searched comprehensively for relevant studies published from 2010 to date. A random-effects model was used to calculate pooled seroprevalence estimates with 95 % confidence intervals (CI) and data were analyzed from 13 provinces in China. The pooled T. gondii seroprevalence in goats was estimated as 9.9 %. Goats T. gondii had the highest seroprevalence in Southwestern China (13.3 %) and the lowest in Northeastern China (7.3 %). The seroprevalence in the sub-group before 2012 (8.0 %) was lower than that in 2012-2015 (15.2 %) and 2016 or later (9.2 %). Goats aged > 12-months had a higher seroprevalence (11.7 %) than ≤ 12-months (10.7 %). The seroprevalence in female goats was 12.5 % and 12.2 % in male goats. In season subgroups, the seroprevalence was lowest in autumn (6.1 %). Naturally grazed goats had a seroprevalence of 8.1 % of infection and 7.8 % in intensively fed goats. We also evaluated the effects of geographical and climate variables on the pooled seroprevalence of T. gondii in goats in China. The results indicated that toxoplasmosis is widely distributed in goats in China. In the context of ensuring animal welfare, we suggest the continued promotion of the transition from natural grazing to intensive agriculture to strengthen disease prevention. Prevention would be better carried out in areas suitable for the survival and reproduction of T. gondii. Breeders need to regularly disinfect the feeding areas and pens or other areas of goat activity thoroughly to reduce the impact of environmental factors responses on the infection of goats to T. gondii.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin-Yu Wei
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, Shandong Province, 266109, PR China; College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Heilongjiang Bayi Agricultural University, Daqing, Heilongjiang Province, 163319, PR China.
| | - Qing-Long Gong
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun, Jilin Province, 130118, PR China.
| | - Ao Zeng
- College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Heilongjiang Bayi Agricultural University, Daqing, Heilongjiang Province, 163319, PR China.
| | - Wei Wang
- College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Heilongjiang Bayi Agricultural University, Daqing, Heilongjiang Province, 163319, PR China.
| | - Qi Wang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun, Jilin Province, 130118, PR China.
| | - Xiao-Xuan Zhang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, Shandong Province, 266109, PR China.
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Smith NC, Goulart C, Hayward JA, Kupz A, Miller CM, van Dooren GG. Control of human toxoplasmosis. Int J Parasitol 2020; 51:95-121. [PMID: 33347832 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpara.2020.11.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 80] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2020] [Revised: 11/12/2020] [Accepted: 11/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Toxoplasmosis is caused by Toxoplasma gondii, an apicomplexan parasite that is able to infect any nucleated cell in any warm-blooded animal. Toxoplasma gondii infects around 2 billion people and, whilst only a small percentage of infected people will suffer serious disease, the prevalence of the parasite makes it one of the most damaging zoonotic diseases in the world. Toxoplasmosis is a disease with multiple manifestations: it can cause a fatal encephalitis in immunosuppressed people; if first contracted during pregnancy, it can cause miscarriage or congenital defects in the neonate; and it can cause serious ocular disease, even in immunocompetent people. The disease has a complex epidemiology, being transmitted by ingestion of oocysts that are shed in the faeces of definitive feline hosts and contaminate water, soil and crops, or by consumption of intracellular cysts in undercooked meat from intermediate hosts. In this review we examine current and future approaches to control toxoplasmosis, which encompass a variety of measures that target different components of the life cycle of T. gondii. These include: education programs about the parasite and avoidance of contact with infectious stages; biosecurity and sanitation to ensure food and water safety; chemo- and immunotherapeutics to control active infections and disease; prophylactic options to prevent acquisition of infection by livestock and cyst formation in meat; and vaccines to prevent shedding of oocysts by definitive feline hosts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas C Smith
- School of Life Sciences, University of Technology Sydney, Ultimo, NSW 2007, Australia; Research School of Biology, Australian National University, Canberra, ACT 0200, Australia.
| | - Cibelly Goulart
- School of Life Sciences, University of Technology Sydney, Ultimo, NSW 2007, Australia; Research School of Biology, Australian National University, Canberra, ACT 0200, Australia
| | - Jenni A Hayward
- Research School of Biology, Australian National University, Canberra, ACT 0200, Australia
| | - Andreas Kupz
- Centre for Molecular Therapeutics, Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Cairns, QLD 4878, Australia
| | - Catherine M Miller
- College of Public Health, Medical and Veterinary Science, James Cook University, Cairns, QLD 4878, Australia
| | - Giel G van Dooren
- Research School of Biology, Australian National University, Canberra, ACT 0200, Australia
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Felipetto LG, Teider-Junior PI, da Silva FFV, Yamakawa AC, Kmetiuk LB, do Couto AC, Martins CM, Vaz ES, Ullmann LS, Langoni H, Timenetsky J, dos Santos AP, Biondo AW. Serosurvey of Anti- Toxoplasma gondii Antibodies in Homeless Persons of São Paulo City, Southeastern Brazil. Front Public Health 2020; 8:580637. [PMID: 33251175 PMCID: PMC7674916 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2020.580637] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2020] [Accepted: 10/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Seroprevalence of Toxoplasma gondii has been extensively studied in a variety of different human populations. However, no study has focused on homeless populations. Accordingly, the present study aimed to assess the seroprevalence of anti-T. gondii antibodies and the risk factors associated in homeless persons from homeless shelter of São Paulo city, southeastern Brazil. In addition, anti-HIV antibodies and associated risk of T. gondii and HIV coinfection have been evaluated. Anti-T. gondii antibodies were detected by indirect fluorescent antibody test. In addition, anti-HIV levels were tested by chemiluminescence enzyme immunoassay, with positive samples confirmed by rapid immunoblot assay. Overall, IgG anti-T. gondii seropositivity was found in 43/120 (35.8%) homeless persons, with endpoint titers varying from 16 to 1,024. The only two pregnant women tested were negative for IgM by chemiluminescence enzyme immunoassay, with normal parturition and clinically healthy newborns in both cases. There were no statistical differences in the risk factors for anti-T. gondii serology (p > 0.05). Anti-HIV seropositivity was found in 2/120 (1.7%) homeless persons, confirmed as HIV-1. One HIV seropositive individual was also sero-reactive to IgG anti-T. gondii, and both were negative to IgM anti-T. gondii. This is the first study that reports the serosurvey of T. gondii in homeless persons worldwide. Despite the limited sample size available in the present study, our findings have shown that the prevalence of anti-T. gondii antibodies in homeless persons herein was lower than the general population, probably due to homeless diet habit of eating mainly processed food intake. No statistical differences were found regarding risk factors for anti-T. gondii exposure in homeless persons. Future studies should be conducted to fully establish risk factors for anti-T. gondii exposure in homeless persons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laís Giuliani Felipetto
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Graduate College of Veterinary Science, Federal University of Paraná, Curitiba, Brazil
| | - Pedro Irineu Teider-Junior
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Graduate College of Veterinary Science, Federal University of Paraná, Curitiba, Brazil
| | | | - Ana Carolina Yamakawa
- Department of Veterinary Hygiene and Public Health, São Paulo State University, Botucatu, Brazil
| | - Louise Bach Kmetiuk
- Graduate College of Cellular and Molecular Biology, Federal University of Paraná, Curitiba, Brazil
| | - Anahi Chechia do Couto
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Graduate College of Veterinary Science, Federal University of Paraná, Curitiba, Brazil
| | - Camila Marinelli Martins
- Department of Nursing and Public Health, State University of Ponta Grossa, Ponta Grossa, Brazil
- AAC&T Research Consulting LTDA, Curitiba, Brazil
| | - Eduarda Stankiwich Vaz
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Graduate College of Veterinary Science, Federal University of Paraná, Curitiba, Brazil
| | | | - Helio Langoni
- Department of Veterinary Hygiene and Public Health, São Paulo State University, Botucatu, Brazil
| | - Jorge Timenetsky
- Department of Medical Microbiology, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Andrea Pires dos Santos
- Department of Comparative Pathobiology, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, United States
| | - Alexander Welker Biondo
- Department of Comparative Pathobiology, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, United States
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Federal University of Paraná, Curitiba, Brazil
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Gazzonis AL, Marino AMF, Garippa G, Rossi L, Mignone W, Dini V, Giunta RP, Luini M, Villa L, Zanzani SA, Manfredi MT. Toxoplasma gondii seroprevalence in beef cattle raised in Italy: a multicenter study. Parasitol Res 2020; 119:3893-3898. [PMID: 32920650 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-020-06878-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2020] [Accepted: 09/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Toxoplasmosis represents an important public health issue, with the consumption of raw or undercooked meat being a major way of human infection. The role of beef in the transmission of the parasite to humans is questioned due to lower quantity of tissue cysts compared with other meat-producing species. However, the habit of consuming raw beef is regionally diffused, and the risk posed by Toxoplasma gondii infection in cattle should not be overlooked. Therefore, to update information on T. gondii in cattle reared in Italy, a multicentric seroepidemiological survey was designed and implemented in four Northern regions (Liguria, Lombardy, Piedmont, and Trentino Alto Adige) and Sardinia. Overall, a convenience sampling was performed, collecting 1444 serum samples from 57 beef cattle herds. Thirteen beef breeds were sampled, besides cross-breed; bovines age varied from 3 months to over 12 years. Sera were tested with a commercial ELISA for the detection of anti-T. gondii antibodies. Individual and herd data were analyzed by binary logistic regression analysis. A T. gondii seroprevalence of 10.2% was recorded, with differences among regions and values ranging from 5.3% in Liguria to 18.6% in the Piedmont region (p value = 0.0001). Both young and adult animals and males and females tested positive, without any significant difference (age and gender: p value > 0.05). Lower seroprevalence values were recorded in cattle born in Italy (8.7%) if compared with animals imported from abroad (13.4%) (p value = 0.046). The spread of T. gondii in beef cattle destined to Italian consumers is confirmed, suggesting the need of continuous monitoring of the infection.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Anna Maria Fausta Marino
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Sicilia "A. Mirri", Centro di Referenza Nazionale per la Toxoplasmosi (Ce.Tox.), Palermo, Italy
| | - Giovanni Garippa
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy
| | - Luca Rossi
- Department of Veterinary Science, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Walter Mignone
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Piemonte, Liguria e Valle d'Aosta, Imperia Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Piemonte, Liguria e Valle d'Aosta, Imperia, Italy
| | - Valter Dini
- Health Veterinary Service, A.S.L. Savonese 2, Savona, Italy
| | - Renato Paolo Giunta
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Sicilia "A. Mirri", Centro di Referenza Nazionale per la Toxoplasmosi (Ce.Tox.), Palermo, Italy
| | - Mario Luini
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Lombardia e dell'Emilia Romagna, Lodi, Italy
| | - Luca Villa
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
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“What a Waste”—Can We Improve Sustainability of Food Animal Production Systems by Recycling Food Waste Streams into Animal Feed in an Era of Health, Climate, and Economic Crises? SUSTAINABILITY 2020. [DOI: 10.3390/su12177071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Food waste has been a major barrier to achieving global food security and environmental sustainability for many decades. Unfortunately, food waste has become an even bigger problem in many countries because of supply chain disruptions during the COVID-19 pandemic and African Swine Fever epidemic. Although Japan and South Korea have been leaders in recycling food waste into animal feed, countries that produce much greater amounts of food waste, such as the United States and the European Union, have lagged far behind. Concerns about the risk of transmission of bacteria, prions, parasites, and viruses have been the main obstacles limiting the recycling of food waste streams containing animal-derived tissues into animal feed and have led to government regulations restricting this practice in the U.S. and EU. However, adequate thermal processing is effective for inactivating all biological agents of concern, perhaps except for prions from infected ruminant tissues. The tremendous opportunity for nitrogen and phosphorus resource recovery along with several other environmental benefits from recycling food waste streams and rendered animal by-products into animal feed have not been fully appreciated for their substantial contribution toward solving our climate crisis. It is time to revisit our global approach to improving economic and environmental sustainability by more efficiently utilizing the abundant supply of food waste and animal tissues to a greater extent in animal feed while protecting human and animal health in food animal production systems.
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Dubey JP, Cerqueira-Cézar CK, Murata FHA, Kwok OCH, Hill D, Yang Y, Su C. All about Toxoplasma gondii infections in pigs: 2009-2020. Vet Parasitol 2020; 288:109185. [PMID: 33271424 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2020.109185] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii infections are common in humans and animals worldwide. Toxoplasma gondii infection in pigs continues to be of public health concern. Pigs are important for the economy of many countries, particularly, USA, China, and European countries. Among the many food animals, pigs are considered the most important for T. gondii transmission in USA and China because viable parasites have rarely been isolated from beef or indoor raised chickens. Besides public health issues, T. gondii causes outbreaks of clinical toxoplasmosis in pigs in China, associated with a unique genotype of T. gondii (ToxoDB genotype #9 or Chinese 1), rarely found in other countries. The safety of ready to eat pork products with respect to T. gondii infection is a matter of recent debate. Here, we review in detail seroprevalence, prevalence of viable and nonviable T. gondii, epidemiology, risk assessment, diagnosis, and curing of pork products containing T. gondii for the past decade. This review will be of interest to biologists, parasitologists, veterinarians, and public health workers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jitender P Dubey
- United States Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Research Service, Beltsville Agricultural Research Center, Animal Parasitic Diseases Laboratory, Beltsville, MD 20705-2350, USA.
| | - Camila K Cerqueira-Cézar
- United States Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Research Service, Beltsville Agricultural Research Center, Animal Parasitic Diseases Laboratory, Beltsville, MD 20705-2350, USA
| | - Fernando H A Murata
- United States Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Research Service, Beltsville Agricultural Research Center, Animal Parasitic Diseases Laboratory, Beltsville, MD 20705-2350, USA
| | - Oliver C H Kwok
- United States Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Research Service, Beltsville Agricultural Research Center, Animal Parasitic Diseases Laboratory, Beltsville, MD 20705-2350, USA
| | - Dolores Hill
- United States Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Research Service, Beltsville Agricultural Research Center, Animal Parasitic Diseases Laboratory, Beltsville, MD 20705-2350, USA
| | - Yurong Yang
- Laboratory of Veterinary Pathology, College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou 450002, PR China
| | - Chunlei Su
- Department of Microbiology, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN 37996-0845, USA
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Cui J, Shen B. Transcriptomic analyses reveal distinct response of porcine macrophages to Toxoplasma gondii infection. Parasitol Res 2020; 119:1819-1828. [PMID: 32399721 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-020-06677-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2020] [Accepted: 03/24/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii is an obligate protozoan parasite infecting diverse hosts. Studies have demonstrated that different hosts respond differently to Toxoplasma infection. Pigs are among the most susceptible hosts of T. gondii, but the host-pathogen interactions that shape the outcome of infection in pigs are completely unknown. Here, we used dual RNA-seq to profile the transcriptomic changes of porcine alveolar macrophages (PAMs) upon Toxoplasma infection. Our results indicated that PAMs initiated different responses to Toxoplasma infection compared with mouse macrophages. First, although infected PAMs upregulated numerous pro-inflammatory factors, IL-12, which plays critical roles in IL-12~IFN-γ-mediated immunity against Toxoplasma infection in mice, was found unchanged during PAM infection. Second, the gene encoding iNOS that is responsible for nitric oxide (NO) production was also not induced in infected PAMs. Consistently, there was no NO level change in PAMs after infection. Third, it seems like Toxoplasma infection inhibited apoptosis in PAMs. On the parasite side, the most obvious change is the upregulation of genes involved in metabolism and macromolecule synthesis, such as the type II fatty acid synthesis in the apicoplast. Together, these results revealed distinct responses of PAMs to Toxoplasma infection and provide novel insights into Toxoplasma-pig interactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianmin Cui
- State Key Laboratory of Agricultural Microbiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, China.,Key Laboratory of Preventive Medicine in Hubei Province, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, China
| | - Bang Shen
- State Key Laboratory of Agricultural Microbiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, China. .,Key Laboratory of Preventive Medicine in Hubei Province, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, China.
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Marques CS, Sousa S, Castro A, da Costa JMC. Detection of Toxoplasma gondii oocysts in fresh vegetables and berry fruits. Parasit Vectors 2020; 13:180. [PMID: 32268915 PMCID: PMC7140358 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-020-04040-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2019] [Accepted: 03/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Toxoplasma gondii is the third most important contributor to health burden caused by food-borne illness. Ingestion of tissue cysts from undercooked meat is an important source of horizontal transmission to humans. However, there is an increasing awareness of the consumption of fresh fruit and vegetables, as a possible source for oocyst transmission, since this stage of the parasite can persist and remain infective in soil and water for long time. Herein, we outline findings related with detection of T. gondii oocysts in vegetables and berry fruits, which are usually raw consumed. The procedure includes the estimation of the number of oocysts. METHODS Food samples were collected from local producers and supermarket suppliers. Toxoplasma gondii oocysts were concentrated after washing the samples by applying high resolution water filtration and immunomagnetic separation (method 1623.1: EPA 816-R-12-001-Jan 2012), in order to (i) remove potential Cryptosporidium spp. oocysts and Giardia spp. cysts present in the samples; and (ii) select T. gondii oocysts. Toxoplasma gondii oocyst detection and an estimation of their numbers was performed by conventional PCR and real time qPCR, using specific primers for a 183-bp sequence of the T. gondii repetitive DNA region. All PCR-positive DNA samples were purified and sequenced. Restriction enzyme digestion with EcoRV endonuclease confirmed the presence of the T. gondii DNA fragment. In addition, the presence of the parasite was observed by fluorescent microscopy, taking advantage of the oocysts autofluorescence under UV light. RESULTS Forty percent of the analysed samples (95% CI: 25.5-56.5%) presented the expected PCR and digested DNA fragments. These fragments were confirmed by sequencing. Microscopic autofluorescence supported the presence of T. gondii-like oocysts. The estimated mean (± SE) oocyst concentration was 23.5 ± 12.1 oocysts/g, with a range of 0.6-179.9 oocysts/g. CONCLUSIONS Our findings provide relevant evidence of contamination of fresh vegetables and berry fruits with T. gondii oocysts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cláudia S. Marques
- Centre for the Study in Animal Science (ICETA), University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
- Centre for Parasite Biology and Immunology, Department of Infectious Diseases, National Health Institute Dr Ricardo Jorge (INSARJ), Rua de Alexandre Herculano, 321, 4000-055 Porto, Portugal
| | - Susana Sousa
- Centre for the Study in Animal Science (ICETA), University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
- Centre for Parasite Biology and Immunology, Department of Infectious Diseases, National Health Institute Dr Ricardo Jorge (INSARJ), Rua de Alexandre Herculano, 321, 4000-055 Porto, Portugal
| | - António Castro
- Centre for the Study in Animal Science (ICETA), University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
- Centre for Parasite Biology and Immunology, Department of Infectious Diseases, National Health Institute Dr Ricardo Jorge (INSARJ), Rua de Alexandre Herculano, 321, 4000-055 Porto, Portugal
| | - José Manuel Correia da Costa
- Centre for the Study in Animal Science (ICETA), University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
- Centre for Parasite Biology and Immunology, Department of Infectious Diseases, National Health Institute Dr Ricardo Jorge (INSARJ), Rua de Alexandre Herculano, 321, 4000-055 Porto, Portugal
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Mota CM, Santiago FM, Cardoso MDRD, Rostkowska C, de Oliveira TC, Silva DADO, Pirovani CP, Mineo TWP, Mineo JR. Acetonic Fraction of Bidens pilosa Enriched for Maturase K Is Able to Control Cerebral Parasite Burden in Mice Experimentally Infected With Toxoplasma gondii. Front Vet Sci 2019; 6:55. [PMID: 30895180 PMCID: PMC6414801 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2019.00055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2018] [Accepted: 02/07/2019] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii infection can cause abortions or congenital infection for a vast number of domestic animals and humans, leading to economic loss in veterinary sciences, as well as severe consequences for immunocompromised patients. Bidens pilosa Linné has been used in ethnopharmacology for treatment of diseases, as malaria, diabetes and hepatitis, in addition to its use as antioxidant, antiallergic, anti-inflammatory, and antiviral. The components of this plant have never been studied before for treatment of toxoplasmosis, and the conventional drugs currently used to treat this disease have high degree of toxicity. Thus, the aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of B. pilosa against T. gondii, by analyzing a total extract of this plant in parallel with a fraction obtained by precipitation in acetone. Also, it was assessed if the acetonic fraction could present lectinic activity, followed by its identification by mass spectrometry. It was observed with the experimental models designed that both total extract and acetonic fraction of B. pilosa were able to control T. gondii infection by in vitro and in vivo experiments, in addition to their low toxicity to host cells. Both total extract and acetonic fraction of this plant display capacity to impair replication of T. gondii tachyzoites. Interesting, the B. pilosa acetonic fraction treatment for 10 days after infection decreases significantly the number of T. gondii brain cyst in comparison with controls. The protein isolated from B. pilosa acetonic fraction was characterized as a novel lectin identified as maturase K. Taken together, these findings open new perspectives to treat patients infected by T. gondii. Future studies will be necessary to investigate the precise mechanism underlying the control of T. gondii infection to impair the replication of this parasite in the host cells after treatment with B. pilosa maturase K.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caroline Martins Mota
- Laboratory of Immunoparasitology "Dr. Mário Endsfeldz Camargo", Institute for Biomedical Sciences, Federal University of Uberlândia, Uberlândia, Brazil
| | - Fernanda Maria Santiago
- Laboratory of Immunoparasitology "Dr. Mário Endsfeldz Camargo", Institute for Biomedical Sciences, Federal University of Uberlândia, Uberlândia, Brazil
| | - Mariana de Resende Damas Cardoso
- Laboratory of Immunoparasitology "Dr. Mário Endsfeldz Camargo", Institute for Biomedical Sciences, Federal University of Uberlândia, Uberlândia, Brazil
| | - Cristina Rostkowska
- Laboratory of Immunoparasitology "Dr. Mário Endsfeldz Camargo", Institute for Biomedical Sciences, Federal University of Uberlândia, Uberlândia, Brazil
| | - Taísa Carrijo de Oliveira
- Laboratory of Immunoparasitology "Dr. Mário Endsfeldz Camargo", Institute for Biomedical Sciences, Federal University of Uberlândia, Uberlândia, Brazil
| | - Deise Aparecida de Oliveira Silva
- Laboratory of Immunoparasitology "Dr. Mário Endsfeldz Camargo", Institute for Biomedical Sciences, Federal University of Uberlândia, Uberlândia, Brazil
| | - Carlos Priminho Pirovani
- Department of Biological Sciences, Biotechnology and Genetic Center, Santa Cruz State University, Ilhéus, Brazil
| | - Tiago Wilson Patriarca Mineo
- Laboratory of Immunoparasitology "Dr. Mário Endsfeldz Camargo", Institute for Biomedical Sciences, Federal University of Uberlândia, Uberlândia, Brazil
| | - José Roberto Mineo
- Laboratory of Immunoparasitology "Dr. Mário Endsfeldz Camargo", Institute for Biomedical Sciences, Federal University of Uberlândia, Uberlândia, Brazil
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