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Ali A, Ullah S, Numan M, Almutairi MM, Alouffi A, Tanaka T. First report on tick-borne pathogens detected in ticks infesting stray dogs near butcher shops. Front Vet Sci 2023; 10:1246871. [PMID: 37799410 PMCID: PMC10548827 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2023.1246871] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2023] [Accepted: 08/16/2023] [Indexed: 10/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Public health is a major concern for several developing countries due to infectious agents transmitted by hematophagous arthropods such as ticks. Health risks due to infectious agents transmitted by ticks infesting butcher-associated stray dogs (BASDs) in urban and peri-urban regions have been neglected in several developing countries. To the best of the authors' knowledge, this is the first study assessing public health risks due to ticks infesting BASDs in Pakistan's urban and peri-urban areas. A total of 575 ticks (390 from symptomatic and 183 from asymptomatic BASDs) were collected from 117 BASDs (63 symptomatic and 54 asymptomatic); the ticks belonged to 4 hard tick species. A subset of each tick species' extracted DNA was subjected to polymerase chain reaction (PCR) to amplify the 16S rDNA and cox1 sequences of the reported tick species, as well as bacterial and protozoal agents. The ticks' 16S rDNA and cox1 sequences showed 99-100% identities, and they were clustered with the sequence of corresponding species from Pakistan and other countries in phylogenetic trees. Among the screened 271 ticks' DNA samples, Anaplasma spp. was detected in 54/271 (19.92%) samples, followed by Ehrlichia spp. (n = 40/271, 14.76%), Rickettsia spp. (n = 33/271, 12.17%), Coxiella spp. (n = 23/271, 4.48%), and Hepatozoon canis (n = 9/271, 3.32%). The obtained sequences and phylogenetic analyzes revealed that the pathogens detected in ticks were Ehrlichia minasensis, Ehrlichia sp., Hepatozoon canis, Coxiella burnetii, Coxiella sp., Anaplasma capra, Anaplasma platys, Anaplasma sp., Rickettsia massiliae, "Candidatus Rickettsia shennongii" and Rickettsia aeschlimannii. Tick-borne pathogens such as E. minasensis, H. canis, A. capra, A. platys, and R. aeschlimannii, were detected based on the DNA for the first time in Pakistan. This is the first report on public health risks due to ticks infesting BASDs. These results not only provided insights into the occurrence of novel tick-borne pathogens in the region but also revealed initial evidence of zoonotic threats to both public health and domestic life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abid Ali
- Department of Zoology, Abdul Wali Khan University Mardan, Mardan, Pakistan
| | - Shafi Ullah
- Department of Zoology, Abdul Wali Khan University Mardan, Mardan, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Numan
- Department of Zoology, Abdul Wali Khan University Mardan, Mardan, Pakistan
| | - Mashal M. Almutairi
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abdulaziz Alouffi
- King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Tetsuya Tanaka
- Laboratory of Infectious Diseases, Joint Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kagoshima University, Kagoshima, Japan
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Huggins LG, Koehler AV, Gasser RB, Traub RJ. Advanced approaches for the diagnosis and chemoprevention of canine vector-borne pathogens and parasites-Implications for the Asia-Pacific region and beyond. ADVANCES IN PARASITOLOGY 2023; 120:1-85. [PMID: 36948727 DOI: 10.1016/bs.apar.2022.12.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
Vector-borne pathogens (VBPs) of canines are a diverse range of infectious agents, including viruses, bacteria, protozoa and multicellular parasites, that are pernicious and potentially lethal to their hosts. Dogs across the globe are afflicted by canine VBPs, but the range of different ectoparasites and the VBPs that they transmit predominate in tropical regions. Countries within the Asia-Pacific have had limited prior research dedicated to exploring the epidemiology of canine VBPs, whilst the few studies that have been conducted show VBP prevalence to be high, with significant impacts on dog health. Moreover, such impacts are not restricted to dogs, as some canine VBPs are zoonotic. We reviewed the status of canine VBPs in the Asia-Pacific, with particular focus on nations in the tropics, whilst also investigating the history of VBP diagnosis and examining recent progress in the field, including advanced molecular methods, such as next-generation sequencing (NGS). These tools are rapidly changing the way parasites are detected and discovered, demonstrating a sensitivity equal to, or exceeding that of, conventional molecular diagnostics. We also provide a background to the armoury of chemopreventive products available for protecting dogs from VBP. Here, field-based research within high VBP pressure environments has underscored the importance of ectoparasiticide mode of action on their overall efficacy. The future of canine VBP diagnosis and prevention at a global level is also explored, highlighting how evolving portable sequencing technologies may permit diagnosis at point-of-care, whilst further research into chemopreventives will be essential if VBP transmission is to be effectively controlled.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucas G Huggins
- Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, Melbourne Veterinary School, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia.
| | - Anson V Koehler
- Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, Melbourne Veterinary School, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Robin B Gasser
- Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, Melbourne Veterinary School, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Rebecca J Traub
- Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, Melbourne Veterinary School, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
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Lineberry MW, Grant AN, Sundstrom KD, Little SE, Allen KE. Diversity and geographic distribution of rickettsial agents identified in brown dog ticks from across the United States. Ticks Tick Borne Dis 2022; 13:102050. [PMID: 36194975 DOI: 10.1016/j.ttbdis.2022.102050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2022] [Revised: 08/26/2022] [Accepted: 09/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Rhipicephalus sanguineus sensu lato, or brown dog ticks, transmit a variety of pathogens of veterinary and public health importance globally. Pathogens vectored by brown dog ticks and identified in the United States include Babesia vogeli, Ehrlichia canis, and several spotted fever group Rickettsia spp. (SFGR). Due to the challenge of collecting canine blood samples nationwide to screen for exposure to these pathogens, we took an indirect approach and tested brown dog ticks for molecular evidence of infection. Brown dog ticks (616 adults and 65 nymphs) collected from dogs and cats across the nation were tested by separate PCR assays detecting Babesia spp., E. canis, and SFGR. While no Babesia sp. was found, we identified rickettsial agents in 3.5% (24/681; 95% CI 2.4-5.2%) of the ticks. Pathogens and related organisms detected in ticks included E. canis (n = 1), Rickettsia amblyommatis (n = 3), Rickettsia massiliae (n = 11), Rickettsia monacensis (n = 3), Rickettsia montanensis (n = 5), and an undefined Rickettsia species (n = 1). These data demonstrate a wider geographic distribution of R. massiliae than previously known, and to the authors' knowledge, reports R. monacensis in brown dog ticks for the first time. Due to the close association that brown dog ticks have with domestic dogs and humans, more research is needed to understand the full array of organisms, some of which are zoonotic, potentially transmitted by this widespread tick complex.
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Affiliation(s)
- Megan W Lineberry
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Oklahoma State University, 250 McElroy Hall, Stillwater, OK 74078, USA
| | - Amber N Grant
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Oklahoma State University, 250 McElroy Hall, Stillwater, OK 74078, USA
| | - Kellee D Sundstrom
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Oklahoma State University, 250 McElroy Hall, Stillwater, OK 74078, USA
| | - Susan E Little
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Oklahoma State University, 250 McElroy Hall, Stillwater, OK 74078, USA.
| | - Kelly E Allen
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Oklahoma State University, 250 McElroy Hall, Stillwater, OK 74078, USA
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Vinnie-Siow WY, Tan TK, Low VL, Teoh YB, Prakash BK, Sivanandam S, Sharma RSK, Lim YAL. Integration of Microscopic, Serologic and Molecular Techniques for Detection of Filarial Parasites in Dogs in Malaysia. Acta Parasitol 2022; 67:468-475. [PMID: 34797497 DOI: 10.1007/s11686-021-00490-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2021] [Accepted: 10/26/2021] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Canine filariosis in domestic dogs caused by several species of filarids is an emerging vector-borne disease and the spread of this disease remains a global veterinary and public health concern. However, information regarding these filarids and their epidemiological patterns remains scarce in Malaysia. The present study aimed to determine the infection rate and associated risk factors of filarial parasites in dogs in Malaysia. METHODS A total of 399 dog blood samples were collected from veterinary hospitals and animal shelters in Malaysia to determine the infection rate and associated risk factors via a combination of microscopic, serologic and molecular diagnostic techniques. RESULTS Two species of canine filariae identified in this study were Dirofilaria immitis (6.5%) and Brugia pahangi (1.3%), and their infections were associated with cross breed, medium size and short hair (p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS A new pair of primers was developed to complement the recovery of the 12S rRNA gene fragment of filarial parasites. This study represents the first molecular evidence of B. pahangi in dogs in Malaysia.
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Huggins LG, Stevenson M, Baydoun Z, Mab R, Khouri Y, Schunack B, Traub RJ. Field trial investigating the efficacy of a long-acting imidacloprid 10%/flumethrin 4.5% polymer matrix collar (Seresto®, Elanco) compared to monthly topical fipronil for the chemoprevention of canine tick-borne pathogens in Cambodia. CURRENT RESEARCH IN PARASITOLOGY & VECTOR-BORNE DISEASES 2022; 2:100095. [PMID: 35865719 PMCID: PMC9294050 DOI: 10.1016/j.crpvbd.2022.100095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2022] [Revised: 06/19/2022] [Accepted: 06/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
The tropical brown dog tick, Rhipicephalus linnaei, commonly infests canines in the tropics and is an important vector for disease-causing and sometimes lethal pathogens including Babesia spp., Ehrlichia canis, Hepatozoon canis and Anaplasma platys. In tropical climates ticks and their pathogens exert an extremely high infection pressure on unprotected dogs. To protect canines in such regions, effective acaricidal products possessing a speed of kill that blocks pathogen transmission is paramount. We conducted a 12-month community trial to compare the chemoprophylactic efficacy of two topical commercial acaricidal formulations: an imidacloprid 10% and flumethrin 4.5%, 8-month acting collar (Seresto®) against a monthly spot-on containing 12% w/v fipronil (Detick, Thailand). In a separate analysis, we used baseline data collected at the start of the trial to quantify tick-borne pathogen (TBP) infection status in dogs with a prior history of being administered a systemically-acting (isoxazoline) versus a topically-acting ectoparasiticide. We found that both topical products in the community trial demonstrated high efficacy at protecting dogs from ticks and TBP, with Seresto® demonstrating a moderate increase in protection at 3 (95% confidence interval (CI): 1–5) TBP-positive dogs per 100 dog-years at risk compared to 11 (95% CI: 4–26) TBP-positive dogs per 100 dog-years at risk for those on fipronil. Additionally, at baseline dogs treated with commercial systemic isoxazoline acaricides prior to the trial’s commencement were 2.7 (95% CI: 0.5–15.0) times more likely to be TBP-positive compared to dogs that had been topically treated, highlighting such isoxazoline products as being less efficacious than topical products at preventing canine TBP acquisition in a tropical setting. Chemopreventive products against ectoparasite infestation are essential for dog health in the tropics. Prevalence of canine tick-borne pathogens was higher in dogs on systemic ectoparasiticides than those on topical ones. Seresto® demonstrated better protection against canine tick-borne pathogen infection than a fipronil formulation.
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Khovand H, Nourollahi Fard SR, Khalili M, Jajarmi M, Hormozzaie HS. Detection of Ehrlichia spp. in ticks collected from stray dogs in Central and Southeastern Iran. BULGARIAN JOURNAL OF VETERINARY MEDICINE 2022. [DOI: 10.15547/bjvm.2020-0128] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Ehrlichia is an etiologic agent of ehrlichiosis in humans and some animals. Rhipicephalus sanguineus is the main vector of the Ehrlichia canis and dogs, red foxes and yellow jackals are reservoirs of the bacterium. This tick has a worldwide distribution and is regarded as one of the commonest species of ticks in Iran. This research aimed to detect Ehrlichia spp. in R. sanguineus isolated from stray dogs in Central and Southeast Iran (Isfahan and Zabol), by using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and to evaluate the prevalence of the microorganism in these two areas. Tick samples were collected from stray dogs in Isfahan and Zabol between April and June of 2018. The DNA extraction was performed with commercial kits. PCR was done to determine the 336 bp fragment related to Ehrlichia spp. Overall, 15.21% of pools in both areas were positive for Ehrlichia, 21.42% and 10% of pools were from Isfahan and Zabol respectively. The results confirmed the presence of Ehrlichia spp. in R. sanguineus in stray dogs revealing that dogs and their ticks may have a significant role in the epidemiology of the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- H. Khovand
- Department of Pathobiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Shahid Bahonar University of Kerman, Kerman, Iran
| | - S. R. Nourollahi Fard
- Department of Pathobiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Shahid Bahonar University of Kerman, Kerman, Iran
| | - M. Khalili
- Department of Pathobiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Shahid Bahonar University of Kerman, Kerman, Iran
| | - M. Jajarmi
- Department of Pathobiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Shahid Bahonar University of Kerman, Kerman, Iran
| | - H. S. Hormozzaie
- Department of Pathobiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Shahid Bahonar University of Kerman, Kerman, Iran
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Tan LP, Hamdan RH, Hassan BNH, Reduan MFH, Okene IAA, Loong SK, Khoo JJ, Samsuddin AS, Lee SH. Rhipicephalus Tick: A Contextual Review for Southeast Asia. Pathogens 2021; 10:821. [PMID: 34208961 PMCID: PMC8308476 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens10070821] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2021] [Revised: 06/20/2021] [Accepted: 06/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Rhipicephalus species are distributed globally with a notifiable presence in Southeast Asia (SEA) within animal and human populations. The Rhipicephalus species are highly adaptive and have established successful coexistence within human dwellings and are known to be active all year round, predominantly in tropical and subtropical climates existing in SEA. In this review, the morphological characteristics, epidemiology, and epizootiology of Rhipicephalus tick species found in SEA are reviewed. There are six commonly reported Rhipicephalus ticks in the SEA region. Their interactions with their host species that range from cattle, sheep, and goats, through cats and dogs, to rodents and man are discussed in this article. Rhipicephalus-borne pathogens, including Anaplasma species, Ehrlichia species, Babesia species, and Theileria species, have been highlighted as are relevant to the region in review. Pathogens transmitted from Rhipicepahalus ticks to host animals are usually presented clinically with signs of anemia, jaundice, and other signs of hemolytic changes. Rhipicephalus ticks infestation also account for ectoparasitic nuisance in man and animals. These issues are discussed with specific interest to the SEA countries highlighting peculiarities of the region in the epidemiology of Rhipicephalus species and attendant pathogens therein. This paper also discusses the current general control strategies for ticks in SEA proffering measures required for increased documentation. The potential risks associated with rampant and improper acaricide use are highlighted. Furthermore, such practices lead to acaricide resistance among Rhipicephalus species are highlighted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Peng Tan
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universiti Malaysia Kelantan, City Campus, Pengkalan Chepa 16100, Kelantan, Malaysia; (R.H.H.); (B.N.H.H.); (M.F.H.R.); (I.A.-A.O.)
| | - Ruhil Hayati Hamdan
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universiti Malaysia Kelantan, City Campus, Pengkalan Chepa 16100, Kelantan, Malaysia; (R.H.H.); (B.N.H.H.); (M.F.H.R.); (I.A.-A.O.)
| | - Basripuzi Nurul Hayyan Hassan
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universiti Malaysia Kelantan, City Campus, Pengkalan Chepa 16100, Kelantan, Malaysia; (R.H.H.); (B.N.H.H.); (M.F.H.R.); (I.A.-A.O.)
| | - Mohd Farhan Hanif Reduan
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universiti Malaysia Kelantan, City Campus, Pengkalan Chepa 16100, Kelantan, Malaysia; (R.H.H.); (B.N.H.H.); (M.F.H.R.); (I.A.-A.O.)
| | - Ibrahim Abdul-Azeez Okene
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universiti Malaysia Kelantan, City Campus, Pengkalan Chepa 16100, Kelantan, Malaysia; (R.H.H.); (B.N.H.H.); (M.F.H.R.); (I.A.-A.O.)
| | - Shih Keng Loong
- Tropical Infectious Diseases Research and Education Centre (TIDREC), University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur 50603, Selangor, Malaysia; (S.K.L.); (J.J.K.)
| | - Jing Jing Khoo
- Tropical Infectious Diseases Research and Education Centre (TIDREC), University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur 50603, Selangor, Malaysia; (S.K.L.); (J.J.K.)
| | - Ahmad Syazwan Samsuddin
- Forest Biotechnology Laboratory, Department of Forest Science and Biodiversity, Faculty of Forestry and Environment, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Serdang 43400, Selangor, Malaysia;
- Mycology and Pathology Branch, Forest Biodiversity Division, Forest Research Institute Malaysia, Kepong 52109, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Seng Hua Lee
- Institute of Tropical Forestry and Forest Products (INTROP), Universiti Putra Malaysia, Serdang 43400, Selangor, Malaysia;
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El Hamiani Khatat S, Daminet S, Duchateau L, Elhachimi L, Kachani M, Sahibi H. Epidemiological and Clinicopathological Features of Anaplasma phagocytophilum Infection in Dogs: A Systematic Review. Front Vet Sci 2021; 8:686644. [PMID: 34250067 PMCID: PMC8260688 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2021.686644] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2021] [Accepted: 05/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Anaplasma phagocytophilum is a worldwide emerging zoonotic tick-borne pathogen transmitted by Ixodid ticks and naturally maintained in complex and incompletely assessed enzootic cycles. Several studies have demonstrated an extensive genetic variability with variable host tropisms and pathogenicity. However, the relationship between genetic diversity and modified pathogenicity is not yet understood. Because of their proximity to humans, dogs are potential sentinels for the transmission of vector-borne pathogens. Furthermore, the strong molecular similarity between human and canine isolates of A. phagocytophilum in Europe and the USA and the positive association in the distribution of human and canine cases in the USA emphasizes the epidemiological role of dogs. Anaplasma phagocytophilum infects and survives within neutrophils by disregulating neutrophil functions and evading specific immune responses. Moreover, the complex interaction between the bacterium and the infected host immune system contribute to induce inflammatory injuries. Canine granulocytic anaplasmosis is an acute febrile illness characterized by lethargy, inappetence, weight loss and musculoskeletal pain. Hematological and biochemistry profile modifications associated with this disease are unspecific and include thrombocytopenia, anemia, morulae within neutrophils and increased liver enzymes activity. Coinfections with other tick-borne pathogens (TBPs) may occur, especially with Borrelia burgdorferi, complicating the clinical presentation, diagnosis and response to treatment. Although clinical studies have been published in dogs, it remains unclear if several clinical signs and clinicopathological abnormalities can be related to this infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah El Hamiani Khatat
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Reproduction, Hassan II Institute of Agronomy and Veterinary Medicine, Rabat, Morocco
| | - Sylvie Daminet
- Department of Companion Animals, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Luc Duchateau
- Department of Comparative Physiology and Biometrics, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Latifa Elhachimi
- Department of Pathology and Veterinary Public Health, Unit of Parasitology, Hassan II Institute of Agronomy and Veterinary Medicine, Rabat, Morocco
| | - Malika Kachani
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Western University of Health Sciences, Pomona, CA, United States
| | - Hamid Sahibi
- Department of Pathology and Veterinary Public Health, Unit of Parasitology, Hassan II Institute of Agronomy and Veterinary Medicine, Rabat, Morocco
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Huggins LG, Colella V, Koehler AV, Schunack B, Traub RJ. A multipronged next-generation sequencing metabarcoding approach unearths hyperdiverse and abundant dog pathogen communities in Cambodia. Transbound Emerg Dis 2021; 69:1933-1950. [PMID: 34096687 DOI: 10.1111/tbed.14180] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2021] [Revised: 05/26/2021] [Accepted: 06/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Recent surveys in Southeast Asia, including Cambodia, have identified canine vector-borne pathogens (VBPs), including those with zoonotic potential, as highly prevalent. The lack of veterinary care alongside the close association semidomesticated dogs have with humans in the region exacerbates these zoonotic risks. Nonetheless, the number of studies investigating such pathogens and the threats they pose to dog and human health is limited. Here, we utilize a next-generation sequencing (NGS)-based metabarcoding protocol to conduct an assumption-free characterization of the bacterial, apicomplexan, and kinetoplastid blood-borne pathogens of free-roaming dogs from across Cambodia. From 467 dogs at five field sites, 62% were infected with one of eight confirmed pathogens, comprising Anaplasma platys (32%), Ehrlichia canis (20%), Hepatozoon canis (18%), Babesia vogeli (14%), Mycoplasma haemocanis (13%), the zoonotic pathogen Bartonella clarridgeiae (3%), Candidatus Mycoplasma haematoparvum (0.2%), and Trypanosoma evansi (0.2%). Coinfections of between two and four VBPs were common with 28% of dogs found to have a mixed infection. Moreover, DNA from putatively infectious agents belonging to the bacterial family and genera Coxiella, Mycobacterium, Neisseria, Rickettsiaceae, Treponema, and two uncharacterized Mycoplasma species were identified, in addition to protozoan genera Colpodella, Parabodo, and Bodo. Using a multiple logistic regression model, the presence of ectoparasites, abnormal mucous membranes, anemia, and total protein were found as predictors of canine VBP exposure. This study represents the first time an NGS metabarcoding technique has been used to holistically detect the bacterial and protozoan hemoparasites communities of dogs through an in-depth survey, highlighting the power of such methods to unearth a wide spectrum of pathogenic organisms in an unbiased manner.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucas G Huggins
- Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Vito Colella
- Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Anson V Koehler
- Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | | | - Rebecca J Traub
- Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
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Tucker NSG, Weeks ENI, Beati L, Kaufman PE. Prevalence and distribution of pathogen infection and permethrin resistance in tropical and temperate populations of Rhipicephalus sanguineus s.l. collected worldwide. MEDICAL AND VETERINARY ENTOMOLOGY 2021; 35:147-157. [PMID: 32918501 DOI: 10.1111/mve.12479] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2020] [Revised: 08/08/2020] [Accepted: 08/15/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
The brown dog tick, Rhipicephalus sanguineus sensu lato (s.l.) Latreille (Acari: Ixodidae), is a peridomestic, cosmopolitan parasite of dogs known to vector numerous pathogens of veterinary and medical importance. Recent phylogenetic analyses separate this tick into temperate and tropical lineages. Populations of Rh. sanguineus s.l. have been reported to exhibit sodium channel target site insensitivity to permethrin and etofenprox, which is likely due to the prolonged use of pyrethroids against many pests in and around the home. In this study, populations collected in the Caribbean, Africa, Asia, Europe and North America, were tested to identify the distribution of a known resistance mechanism, pathogen-vector interactions and phylogeny in relation to latitude. Using molecular assays, populations from 29 distinct locations were simultaneously geographically typed and screened for bacterial infection by Rickettsia, Ehrlichia, Babesia and Hepatozoon species, and for the presence of a sodium channel single nucleotide polymorphism known to confer permethrin resistance. Implications of these results on Rh. sanguineus s.l. management in association with geographical distribution will be discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- N S G Tucker
- Entomology and Nematology Department, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, U.S.A
| | - E N I Weeks
- Entomology and Nematology Department, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, U.S.A
| | - L Beati
- U.S. National Tick Collection, Institute for Coastal Plain Science, Georgia Southern University, Statesboro, GA, U.S.A
| | - P E Kaufman
- Entomology and Nematology Department, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, U.S.A
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11
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Novel High-Throughput Multiplex qPCRs for the Detection of Canine Vector-Borne Pathogens in the Asia-Pacific. Microorganisms 2021; 9:microorganisms9051092. [PMID: 34069665 PMCID: PMC8161336 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms9051092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2021] [Revised: 05/18/2021] [Accepted: 05/18/2021] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
The Asia-Pacific hosts a large diversity of canine vector-borne pathogens (VBPs) with some of the most common and most pathogenic, generating significant mortality as well as a spectrum of health impacts on local dog populations. The VBPs Anaplasma platys, Babesia gibsoni, Babesia vogeli, Ehrlichia canis, Hepatozoon canis and haemotropic Mycoplasma spp. are all endemic throughout the region, with many exhibiting shifting geographical distributions that warrant urgent attention. Moreover, many of these species cause similar clinical signs when parasitising canine hosts, whilst knowledge of the exact pathogen is critical to ensure treatment is effective. This is complicated by frequent coinfection that can exacerbate pathology. Here, we describe the development, optimisation and validation of two novel quadruplex Taq-Man based real-time PCRs (qPCRs) for the specific and sensitive detection of the aforementioned VBPs. To ensure accurate evaluation of diagnostic performance, results of our qPCRs were evaluated on field samples from Thai dogs and compared with both conventional PCR (cPCR) results and next-generation sequencing (NGS) metabarcoding. Our qPCRs were found to be more sensitive at detecting canine VBP than cPCR and generated results similar to those achieved by NGS. These qPCRs will provide a valuable high-throughput diagnostic tool available to epidemiologists, researchers and clinicians for the diagnosis of key canine VBPs in the Asia-Pacific and further afield.
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Nguyen VL, Dantas-Torres F, Otranto D. Canine and feline vector-borne diseases of zoonotic concern in Southeast Asia. CURRENT RESEARCH IN PARASITOLOGY & VECTOR-BORNE DISEASES 2021. [PMCID: PMC8906074 DOI: 10.1016/j.crpvbd.2020.100001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/02/2022]
Abstract
Dogs and cats are important hosts and reservoirs of many viral, bacterial, protozoal, and helminthic pathogens transmitted by arthropods, including some of zoonotic concern. By sharing the same environment, these companion animals play an important role in the transmission of zoonotic pathogens to humans in various regions and socioeconomic contexts. While canine and feline vector-borne diseases (VBD) are of major concern in wealthy regions (e.g. Europe and North America), less attention has been received in developing countries such as those in Southeast Asia (SEA). This review provides summarized and updated information on canine and feline VBD with emphasis on those of zoonotic concern in SEA. Of these, zoonotic bacteria (i.e. Bartonella henselae, Bartonella clarridgeiae, and Rickettsia felis) and filarial nematodes (i.e. Brugia malayi, Dirofilaria repens, and Dirofilaria immitis) stand out as the most important in veterinary and human medicine. Additionally, the recent finding of Leishmania infantum in dogs in SEA raised more concerns about the spreading of this zoonotic agent in this region. Further epidemiological surveys, especially in countries with extremely scant information such as Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, and Timor-Leste are advocated. Additionally, effective control measures of canine and feline VBD as well as their arthropod vectors should be simultaneously performed for the management of zoonotic infections. Many canine and feline vector-borne infections affect animals and humans in Southeast Asia. Ticks, fleas and mosquitoes are the most common vectors transmitting pathogens to dogs, cats and humans in Southeast Asia. Bartonella henselae, Rickettsia felis and Dirofilaria repens are of concern to human health in this region. Collaboration between governments and researchers is encouraged for a better management of vector-borne diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Viet-Linh Nguyen
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Bari, Bari, Italy
| | - Filipe Dantas-Torres
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Bari, Bari, Italy
- Department of Immunology, Aggeu Magalhães Institute, Recife, Brazil
| | - Domenico Otranto
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Bari, Bari, Italy
- Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, Bu-Ali Sina University, Hamedan, Iran
- Corresponding author. Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Bari, Bari, Italy.
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13
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Galluzzo P, Grippi F, Di Bella S, Santangelo F, Sciortino S, Castiglia A, Sciacca C, Arnone M, Alduina R, Chiarenza G. Seroprevalence of Borrelia burgdorferi in Stray Dogs from Southern Italy. Microorganisms 2020; 8:microorganisms8111688. [PMID: 33142966 PMCID: PMC7692072 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms8111688] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2020] [Revised: 10/22/2020] [Accepted: 10/29/2020] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Borrelia burgdorferi is a bacterial pathogen transmitted by Ixodes ticks and is responsible for Lyme disease in both humans and dogs. The aim of this work was to evaluate B. burgdorferi diffusion among stray dogs in Palermo (Sicily, Italy) by serological methods in order to study the risk factors associated with the infection. Serum and blood samples of 316 dogs were collected from a shelter in Palermo, and were analyzed for the presence of antibodies against B. burgdorferi by indirect immunofluorescence assay (IFA), and of the ospA gene by real-time PCR, respectively. Seventeen sera (5.4%) were positive for the antibodies via IFA and one blood (0.3%) for ospA via real time PCR. On the basis of serological results, the evaluation of the potential risk factors (sex, age, breed and coat color) was carried out. The multivariate analysis indicated that male sex is a factor significantly associated with B. burgdorferi seropositivity. This study confirms that male dogs have a higher risk of developing the disease than females, and represents the first investigation on the spread of B. burgdorferi among stray dogs in Sicily.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paola Galluzzo
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Sicilia “A. Mirri”, via G. Marinuzzi 3, 90129 Palermo, Italy; (P.G.); (S.S.); (A.C.); (C.S.); (M.A.); (G.C.)
- Dipartimento Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche, Chimiche e Farmaceutiche, Viale delle Scienze, University of Palermo, 90133 Palermo, Italy;
| | - Francesca Grippi
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Sicilia “A. Mirri”, via G. Marinuzzi 3, 90129 Palermo, Italy; (P.G.); (S.S.); (A.C.); (C.S.); (M.A.); (G.C.)
- Correspondence: (F.G.); (S.D.B.)
| | - Santina Di Bella
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Sicilia “A. Mirri”, via G. Marinuzzi 3, 90129 Palermo, Italy; (P.G.); (S.S.); (A.C.); (C.S.); (M.A.); (G.C.)
- Correspondence: (F.G.); (S.D.B.)
| | - Francesco Santangelo
- U.O. Igiene Urbana ASP Palermo presso Canile Municipale, Piazza Tiro a Segno 5, 90141 Palermo, Italy;
| | - Sonia Sciortino
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Sicilia “A. Mirri”, via G. Marinuzzi 3, 90129 Palermo, Italy; (P.G.); (S.S.); (A.C.); (C.S.); (M.A.); (G.C.)
| | - Alessandra Castiglia
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Sicilia “A. Mirri”, via G. Marinuzzi 3, 90129 Palermo, Italy; (P.G.); (S.S.); (A.C.); (C.S.); (M.A.); (G.C.)
| | - Carmela Sciacca
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Sicilia “A. Mirri”, via G. Marinuzzi 3, 90129 Palermo, Italy; (P.G.); (S.S.); (A.C.); (C.S.); (M.A.); (G.C.)
| | - Maria Arnone
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Sicilia “A. Mirri”, via G. Marinuzzi 3, 90129 Palermo, Italy; (P.G.); (S.S.); (A.C.); (C.S.); (M.A.); (G.C.)
| | - Rosa Alduina
- Dipartimento Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche, Chimiche e Farmaceutiche, Viale delle Scienze, University of Palermo, 90133 Palermo, Italy;
| | - Giuseppina Chiarenza
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Sicilia “A. Mirri”, via G. Marinuzzi 3, 90129 Palermo, Italy; (P.G.); (S.S.); (A.C.); (C.S.); (M.A.); (G.C.)
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14
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Sipin Q, Mustaffa Kamal F, Watanabe M, Megat Abdul Rani PA, Low VL, Abdul Aziz NA. Molecular detection of tick-borne haemopathogens in shelter dogs and Rhipicephalus sanguineus (sensu lato) ticks from Peninsular Malaysia. Comp Immunol Microbiol Infect Dis 2020; 73:101563. [PMID: 33120297 DOI: 10.1016/j.cimid.2020.101563] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2020] [Revised: 10/01/2020] [Accepted: 10/07/2020] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Ticks are important vectors in transmitting various pathogens and they could jeopardize the health and welfare of humans and animals worldwide. The present study aimed to investigate the presence of important tick-borne haemopathogens (TBH) in dogs and ticks via polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assays. A total of 220 blood samples and 140 ticks were collected from 10 animal shelters in Peninsular Malaysia. Of 220 blood samples, 77 (35 %) were positive to TBH, of which 20 % were E. canis, 12 % were A. platys, 7 % were B. gibsoni and 7 % were B. vogeli. All ticks were identified as Rhipicephalus sanguineus with five samples (3.57 %) positive with TBH. Co-infections of TBH (0.45-9.55 %) in dogs were also observed in this study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Quincie Sipin
- Department of Veterinary Pathology & Microbiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400 UPM Serdang, Malaysia
| | - Farina Mustaffa Kamal
- Department of Veterinary Pathology & Microbiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400 UPM Serdang, Malaysia
| | - Malaika Watanabe
- Department of Companion Animal Medicine & Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400 UPM Serdang, Malaysia
| | - Puteri Azaziah Megat Abdul Rani
- Department of Companion Animal Medicine & Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400 UPM Serdang, Malaysia
| | - Van Lun Low
- Tropical Infectious Diseases Research and Education Centre (TIDREC), Universiti Malaya, 50603 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Nor Azlina Abdul Aziz
- Department of Companion Animal Medicine & Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400 UPM Serdang, Malaysia.
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15
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Development of a Loop-Mediated Isothermal Amplification (LAMP) Assay Targeting the Citrate Synthase Gene for Detection of Ehrlichia canis in Dogs. Vet Sci 2020; 7:vetsci7040156. [PMID: 33076400 PMCID: PMC7712857 DOI: 10.3390/vetsci7040156] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2020] [Revised: 10/08/2020] [Accepted: 10/14/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Canine monocytic ehrlichiosis caused by Ehrlichia canis is one of the leading tick-borne diseases of dogs, particularly in tropical countries. A highly sensitive and specific diagnostic method is essential for early detection to facilitate treatment. This study was conducted to develop E. canis loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) assay, a highly sensitive yet simple molecular technique, targeting the citrate synthase (gltA) gene of E. canis. Canine blood samples were subjected to conventional PCR targeting E. canis gltA. After analysis of the sequences of PCR amplicons, LAMP primers were generated. The optimum temperature and time for the LAMP assay were determined using eight samples—after which, the effectiveness and reproducibility of LAMP were verified by testing 40 samples, which included PCR-positive and negative samples. The detection limit was also established. The optimal condition for the assay was 61 °C for 60 min. Compared to PCR, the LAMP assay had a relative sensitivity and specificity of 92.5 and 100%, respectively. Statistical analysis using McNemar’s test showed that the E. canis LAMP assay has no significant difference with PCR. Therefore, the LAMP assay developed in this study may be used as an alternative to PCR in the detection of E. canis.
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16
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Sharifah N, Heo CC, Ehlers J, Houssaini J, Tappe D. Ticks and tick-borne pathogens in animals and humans in the island nations of Southeast Asia: A review. Acta Trop 2020; 209:105527. [PMID: 32447029 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2020.105527] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2019] [Revised: 05/04/2020] [Accepted: 05/04/2020] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
Ticks are blood-feeding ectoparasites and major vectors of pathogens that cause infectious diseases in humans and animals worldwide including mammals, birds and reptiles. Despite the growing scientific effort in the 20th century, there is still limited information on ticks and tick-borne pathogens in Southeast Asia, especially concerning medical, veterinary, socioeconomic and agricultural aspects in the island nations. This review provides an overview of the current state of knowledge of ticks and their pathogens in the island nations of Southeast Asia and peninsular Malaysia. We aim to stimulate further research studies on ticks and tick-borne pathogens of human and veterinary importance in this geographical region.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nadiah Sharifah
- Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Sungai Buloh Campus, Jalan Hospital, 47000 Sungai Buloh, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Chong Chin Heo
- Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Sungai Buloh Campus, Jalan Hospital, 47000 Sungai Buloh, Selangor, Malaysia; Institute of Pathology, Laboratory and Forensic Medicine (I-PPerForM), Universiti Teknologi MARA, Sungai Buloh Campus, Jalan Hospital, 47000 Sungai Buloh, Selangor, Malaysia.
| | - Julian Ehlers
- Bernhard Nocht Institute for Tropical Medicine, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Jamal Houssaini
- Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Sungai Buloh Campus, Jalan Hospital, 47000 Sungai Buloh, Selangor, Malaysia; Institute of Pathology, Laboratory and Forensic Medicine (I-PPerForM), Universiti Teknologi MARA, Sungai Buloh Campus, Jalan Hospital, 47000 Sungai Buloh, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Dennis Tappe
- Bernhard Nocht Institute for Tropical Medicine, Hamburg, Germany
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17
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Huggins LG, Koehler AV, Schunack B, Inpankaew T, Traub RJ. A Host-Specific Blocking Primer Combined with Optimal DNA Extraction Improves the Detection Capability of a Metabarcoding Protocol for Canine Vector-Borne Bacteria. Pathogens 2020; 9:E258. [PMID: 32244645 PMCID: PMC7238069 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens9040258] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2020] [Revised: 03/31/2020] [Accepted: 03/31/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Bacterial canine vector-borne diseases are responsible for some of the most life-threatening conditions of dogs in the tropics and are typically poorly researched with some presenting a zoonotic risk to cohabiting people. Next-generation sequencing based methodologies have been demonstrated to accurately characterise a diverse range of vector-borne bacteria in dogs, whilst also proving to be more sensitive than conventional PCR techniques. We report two improvements to a previously developed metabarcoding tool that increased the sensitivity and diversity of vector-borne bacteria detected from canine blood. Firstly, we developed and tested a canine-specific blocking primer that prevents cross-reactivity of bacterial primer amplification on abundant canine mitochondrial sequences. Use of our blocking primer increased the number of canine vector-borne infections detected (five more Ehrlichia canis and three more Anaplasma platys infections) and increased the diversity of bacterial sequences found. Secondly, the DNA extraction kit employed can have a significant effect on the bacterial community characterised. Therefore, we compared four different DNA extraction kits finding the Qiagen DNeasy Blood and Tissue Kit to be superior for detection of blood-borne bacteria, identifying nine more A. platys, two more E. canis, one more Mycoplasma haemocanis infection and more putative bacterial pathogens than the lowest performing kit.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucas G. Huggins
- Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria 3050, Australia; (A.V.K.); (R.J.T.)
| | - Anson V. Koehler
- Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria 3050, Australia; (A.V.K.); (R.J.T.)
| | | | - Tawin Inpankaew
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kasetsart University, Bangkok 10900, Thailand;
| | - Rebecca J. Traub
- Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria 3050, Australia; (A.V.K.); (R.J.T.)
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18
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Low VL, Tan TK, Khoo JJ, Lim FS, AbuBakar S. An overview of rickettsiae in Southeast Asia: Vector-animal-human interface. Acta Trop 2020; 202:105282. [PMID: 31778642 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2019.105282] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2019] [Revised: 11/24/2019] [Accepted: 11/24/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Rickettsioses are emerging, and re-emerging diseases caused by obligate intracellular arthropod-borne bacteria that infect humans and animals worldwide. Various rickettsiae such as Orientia, Rickettsia, Anaplasma and Ehrlichia have been circulated in companion, domesticated and wild animals through bites of infected ticks, fleas, lice or mites. This review summarizes the infections of rickettsiae, including the newly discovered regional species Rickettsia thailandii, Candidatus Rickettsia sepangensis, Candidatus Rickettsia johorensis, Candidatus Rickettsia laoensis, Candidatus Rickettsia mahosotii, Candidatus Rickettsia khammouanensis, Candidatus Anaplasma pangolinii, and other novel genotypes in vectors, humans and animals in Southeast Asia. Issues on some unidentified rickettsiae that elicit immune responses and production of antibodies that are cross-reactive with the antigens used are discussed. Knowledge gaps which required attention are also identified in this review.
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Affiliation(s)
- Van Lun Low
- Higher Institution Centre of Excellence (HICoE), Tropical Infectious Diseases Research and Education Centre (TIDREC), University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
| | - Tiong Kai Tan
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Jing Jing Khoo
- Higher Institution Centre of Excellence (HICoE), Tropical Infectious Diseases Research and Education Centre (TIDREC), University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Fang Shiang Lim
- Higher Institution Centre of Excellence (HICoE), Tropical Infectious Diseases Research and Education Centre (TIDREC), University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Sazaly AbuBakar
- Higher Institution Centre of Excellence (HICoE), Tropical Infectious Diseases Research and Education Centre (TIDREC), University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia; Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
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19
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Lim FS, Khoo JJ, Tan KK, Zainal N, Loong SK, Khor CS, AbuBakar S. Bacterial communities in Haemaphysalis, Dermacentor and Amblyomma ticks collected from wild boar of an Orang Asli Community in Malaysia. Ticks Tick Borne Dis 2019; 11:101352. [PMID: 31866439 DOI: 10.1016/j.ttbdis.2019.101352] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2019] [Revised: 11/08/2019] [Accepted: 12/02/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Ticks are hematophagous vectors of arthropod-borne disease agents globally. In Malaysia, despite seroprevalence studies indicating the presence of tick-borne diseases among the indigenous people, the etiological agents of these diseases are still unclear. These indigenous people, also known as the Orang Asli, still live in forested areas with frequent contact with wildlife. Wild boar are ubiquitously found in the forested areas where the Orang Asli communities are located and are commonly hunted as a food supplement. In this study, we aim to determine the tick species parasitizing wild boar from an Orang Asli community, and explore the tick-associated bacterial communities using 16 s rRNA amplicon sequencing on the Ion Torrent PGM™ platform. A total of 72 ticks were collected from three wild boar and were morphologically identified as Haemaphysalis hystricis (n = 32), Dermacentor compactus (n = 15), Amblyomma testudinarium (n = 13), Dermacentor steini (n = 10) and Dermacentor atrosignatus (n = 2). Across all tick samples, 910 bacterial taxa were identified. Although the bacterial communities were not significantly distinct between tick species in beta-diversity analyses, Coxiella, Rickettsia and Francisella were detected at high relative abundance in H. hystricis, D. compactus and D. steini respectively. Many other bacterial genera, including those that have been described in many different tick species, were also identified, including Pseudomonas, Acinetobacter, Staphylococcus and Corynebacterium. Beta-diversity analyses also showed that the bacterial communities were separated based on the animal host from which the ticks were collected from, suggesting that the bacterial communities here may be influenced by the animal skin microflora, host blood or the environment. PCR screening confirmed the presence of Rickettsia sp. related to spotted fever group Rickettsia in some of the ticks. This study provides baseline knowledge of the microbiome of H. hystricis, D. atrosignatus, D. compactus, D. steini and A. testudinarium parasitizing wild boar in this region. The information gained in this study provides the basis to target our efforts in H. hystricis, D. compactus and D. steini for the future investigation of vector competence and the zoonotic potential for the Coxiella, Rickettsia and Francisella detected here, as well as their implications for the risks of tick-borne diseases among the Orang Asli communities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fang Shiang Lim
- Tick Cell Biobank Asia Outpost, Tropical Infectious Diseases Research and Education Centre (TIDREC), Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, 50603 Malaysia; Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, 50603 Malaysia
| | - Jing Jing Khoo
- Tick Cell Biobank Asia Outpost, Tropical Infectious Diseases Research and Education Centre (TIDREC), Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, 50603 Malaysia.
| | - Kim Kee Tan
- Tick Cell Biobank Asia Outpost, Tropical Infectious Diseases Research and Education Centre (TIDREC), Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, 50603 Malaysia
| | - Nurhafiza Zainal
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, 50603 Malaysia
| | - Shih Keng Loong
- Tick Cell Biobank Asia Outpost, Tropical Infectious Diseases Research and Education Centre (TIDREC), Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, 50603 Malaysia
| | - Chee Sieng Khor
- Tick Cell Biobank Asia Outpost, Tropical Infectious Diseases Research and Education Centre (TIDREC), Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, 50603 Malaysia
| | - Sazaly AbuBakar
- Tick Cell Biobank Asia Outpost, Tropical Infectious Diseases Research and Education Centre (TIDREC), Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, 50603 Malaysia; Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, 50603 Malaysia.
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20
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Kunathasan Chelliah M, Šlapeta J. The prevalence and trends of canine heartworm (Dirofilaria immitis) in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia (1970-2018). VETERINARY PARASITOLOGY- REGIONAL STUDIES AND REPORTS 2019; 16:100272. [PMID: 31027591 DOI: 10.1016/j.vprsr.2019.100272] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2018] [Revised: 02/05/2019] [Accepted: 02/10/2019] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
Malaysia is considered a hyperendemic area for canine heartworm (Dirofilaria immitis) due to its favorable climate for the completion of the parasite life cycle. This study provides an updated prevalence data on D. immitis in owned dogs from Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia and compares the trends of D. immitis in Malaysia. In the period between December 2017 and June 2018, 3.85% (5/130) dog blood samples tested positive for the presence of D. immitis antigen. A majority of the tested dogs (122/130) were not on rigorous heartworm prevention. After collating and analyzing information from 10 historical studies (1970-2017), we identified a significant decline in prevalence of D. immitis antigen in Malaysia, after the year 2000. Historically, the prevalence of D. immits antigen in owned dogs was significantly lower than the prevalence seen in stray dogs in Malaysia. This study demonstrates that D. immitis remains active in Kuala Lumpur, implying that accurate compliance of heartworm prevention is essential in Malaysia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meera Kunathasan Chelliah
- Sydney School of Veterinary Science, Faculty of Science, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales 2006, Australia
| | - Jan Šlapeta
- Sydney School of Veterinary Science, Faculty of Science, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales 2006, Australia.
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21
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Low VL, Prakash BK, Lim YAL, Tan TK, Vinnie-Siow WY, Sofian-Azirun M, AbuBakar S. Detection of Anaplasmataceae agents and co-infection with other tick-borne protozoa in dogs and Rhipicephalus sanguineus sensu lato ticks. EXPERIMENTAL & APPLIED ACAROLOGY 2018; 75:429-435. [PMID: 30073430 DOI: 10.1007/s10493-018-0280-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2018] [Accepted: 07/31/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Anaplasmosis and ehrlichiosis are of serious health concern worldwide for animals and humans. In the present study, we report the occurrence of Anaplasma platys and Ehrlichia canis in dogs and Rhipicephalus sanguineus sensu lato (s.l.) ticks from Peninsular Malaysia using a nested polymerase chain reaction assay based on amplification of the 16S rRNA gene. Anaplasma platys was detected from dogs and ticks with prevalence rates of 3.3% (8/240) and 2.9% (4/140), respectively. On the other hand, 12.9% (31/240) of the dogs and 0.7% (1/140) of the ticks were tested positive for E. canis. Additionally, co-infections of A. platys and E. canis with Babesia or Hepatozoon protozoa were also noted in this study. Double infection (E. canis + B. gibsoni) was observed in tick, whereas triple infections (E. canis + A. platys + B. vogeli and E. canis + A. platys + H. canis) were found in dogs. This study represents the first evidence of A. platys DNA in R. sanguineus s.l. in Malaysia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Van Lun Low
- Tropical Infectious Diseases Research and Education Centre (TIDREC), University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
| | - Batah Kunalan Prakash
- Institute of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Yvonne Ai-Lian Lim
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
- Centre of Excellence for Research in AIDS (CERIA), University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Tiong Kai Tan
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Wei Yin Vinnie-Siow
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Mohd Sofian-Azirun
- Institute of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Sazaly AbuBakar
- Tropical Infectious Diseases Research and Education Centre (TIDREC), University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
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22
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Molecular investigation of Anaplasma spp. in domestic and wildlife animals in Peninsular Malaysia. VETERINARY PARASITOLOGY- REGIONAL STUDIES AND REPORTS 2018; 13:141-147. [PMID: 31014863 DOI: 10.1016/j.vprsr.2018.05.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2018] [Revised: 05/27/2018] [Accepted: 05/28/2018] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Anaplasma spp. are Gram-negative obligate intracellular, tick-borne bacteria which are of medical and veterinary importance. Little information is available on Anaplasma infection affecting domestic and wildlife animals in Malaysia. This study investigated the presence of Anaplasma spp. in the blood samples of domestic and wildlife animals in Peninsular Malaysia, using polymerase chain reaction (EHR-PCR) assays targeting the 16S rRNA gene of Anaplasmataceae. High detection rates (60.7% and 59.0%, respectively) of Anaplasma DNA were noted in 224 cattle (Bos taurus) and 78 deer (77 Rusa timorensis and one Rusa unicolor) investigated in this study. Of the 60 amplified fragments obtained for sequence analysis, Anaplasma marginale was exclusively detected in cattle while Anaplasma platys/Anaplasma phagocytophilum was predominantly detected in the deer. Based on sequence analyses of the longer fragment of the 16S rRNA gene (approximately 1000 bp), the occurrence of A. marginale, Anaplasma capra and Candidatus Anaplasma camelii in cattle, Candidatus A. camelii in deer and Anaplasma bovis in a goat was identified in this study. To assess whether animals were infected with more than one species of Anaplasma, nested amplification of A. phagocytophilum, A. bovis and Ehrlichia chaffeensis DNA was performed for 33 animal samples initially screened positive for Anaplasmataceae. No amplification of E. chaffeensis DNA was obtained from animals investigated. BLAST analyses of the 16S rDNA sequences from three deer (R. timorensis), a buffalo (Bubalus bubalis) and a cow (B. taurus) reveal similarity with that of Candidatus Anaplasma boleense strain (GenBank accession no.: KX987335). Sequence analyses of the partial gene fragments of major surface protein (msp4) gene from two deer (R. timorensis) and a monitor lizard (Varanus salvator) show the detection of a strain highly similar (99%) to that of A. phagocytophilum strain ZJ-China (EU008082). The findings in this study show the occurrence of various Anaplasma species including those newly reported species in Malaysian domestic and wildlife animals. The role of these animals as reservoirs/maintenance hosts for Anaplasma infection are yet to be determined.
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Koh FX, Kho KL, Kisomi MG, Wong LP, Bulgiba A, Tan PE, Lim YAL, Nizam QNH, Panchadcharam C, Tay ST. Ehrlichia and Anaplasma Infections: Serological Evidence and Tick Surveillance in Peninsular Malaysia. JOURNAL OF MEDICAL ENTOMOLOGY 2018; 55:269-276. [PMID: 29202206 DOI: 10.1093/jme/tjx204] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Little information is available on human anaplasmosis and ehrlichiosis in Southeast Asia despite increasing reports of the detection of Anaplasma spp. and Ehrlichia spp. in the ticks. We report herein the serological findings against the tick-borne pathogens in a group of animal farm workers (n = 87) and indigenous people (n = 102) in Peninsular Malaysia. IgG antibodies against Ehrlichia chaffeensis were detected from 29.9% and 34.3% of farm workers and indigenous people, respectively, using commercial indirect immunofluorescence assays. Comparatively, only 6.9% of the indigenous people but none of the animal farm workers were seropositive to Anaplasma phagocytophilum. A polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assay targeting the 16S rRNA gene of Anaplasmataceae was used to identify Anaplastamataceae in ticks collected from various locations adjacent to the areas where the serological survey was conducted. In this study, a total of 61.5% of ticks infesting farm animals, 37.5% of ticks infesting peri-domestic animals in rural villages, 27.3% of ticks collected from wildlife animals, and 29.1% of questing ticks collected from forest vegetation were positive for Anaplasmataceae DNA. Sequence analyses of 16S rRNA gene region (238 bp) provide the identification for Anaplasma marginale, Anaplasma bovis, Anaplasma platys, A. phagocytophilum, and Anaplasma spp. closely related to Candidatus Cryptoplasma californiense in ticks. E. chaffeensis DNA was not detected from any ticks, instead, Ehrlichia sp. strain EBm52, Ehrlichia mineirensis and Candidatus Ehrlichia shimanensis are the only Ehrlichia sp. identified from cattle ticks in this study. Further investigation is required to ascertain the occurrence of zoonotic transmission of Ehrlichia and Anaplasma infections in Peninsular Malaysia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fui Xian Koh
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Kai Ling Kho
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Masoumeh Ghane Kisomi
- Julius Centre University of Malaya, Department of Social and Preventive Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Li Ping Wong
- Julius Centre University of Malaya, Department of Social and Preventive Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Awang Bulgiba
- Julius Centre University of Malaya, Department of Social and Preventive Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Poai Ean Tan
- Department of Wildlife and National Parks Peninsular Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Yvonne Ai Lian Lim
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Quaza Nizamuddin Hassan Nizam
- Department of Veterinary Services, Ministry of Agriculture and Agro-Based Industry Malaysia, Federal Government Administrative Center, Putrajaya, Malaysia
| | - Chandrawathani Panchadcharam
- Department of Veterinary Services, Ministry of Agriculture and Agro-Based Industry Malaysia, Federal Government Administrative Center, Putrajaya, Malaysia
| | - Sun Tee Tay
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
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Laroche M, Marie J, Mediannikov O, Almeras L, Berenger JM, Musso D, Raoult D, Parola P. A novel ehrlichial agent detected in tick in French Polynesia. Ticks Tick Borne Dis 2016; 7:1203-1208. [PMID: 27522945 DOI: 10.1016/j.ttbdis.2016.07.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2015] [Revised: 06/29/2016] [Accepted: 07/23/2016] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Ticks are hematophageous arthropods that are known to host and transmit miscellaneous pathogens including zoonotic bacteria. The aim of this study was to investigate the presence of tick-associated microorganisms in Tahiti, French Polynesia with molecular tools. A total of 658 ticks from two species including Rhipicephalus sanguineus s.l. and Rh. annulatus were collected with forceps on dogs and cattle respectively, or with a flag on pasture in several locations of Tahiti in 2013. Two Rickettsia belonging to the spotted fever group different from R. conorii and R. massiliae were detected by qPCR in two Rh. sanguineus s.l. ticks, but sequencing failed. A Rh. annulatus tick was found positive for a new ehrlichial agent characterized by amplification and sequencing of fragments of the Anaplasmataceae 23S and Ehrlichia 16S genes. Phylogenetic analyses based on the 23S and 16S sequences reveals that this bacterium is a new genotype, genetically close to Ehrlichia minasensis, a recently described Ehrlichia sp. close to Ehrlichia canis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maureen Laroche
- Aix Marseille Université, Unité de Recherche en Maladies Infectieuses et Tropicales Emergentes (URMITE), UM63, CNRS 7278, IRD 198 (Dakar, Sénégal), Inserm 1095, Faculté de Médecine, 27 bd Jean Moulin, 13385 Marseille cedex 5, France
| | - Jérôme Marie
- Pôle de recherche et de veille sur les maladies infectieuses émergentes, Institut Louis Malardé, PO Box 30, 98713 Tahiti, French Polynesia
| | - Oleg Mediannikov
- Aix Marseille Université, Unité de Recherche en Maladies Infectieuses et Tropicales Emergentes (URMITE), UM63, CNRS 7278, IRD 198 (Dakar, Sénégal), Inserm 1095, Faculté de Médecine, 27 bd Jean Moulin, 13385 Marseille cedex 5, France
| | - Lionel Almeras
- Aix Marseille Université, Unité de Recherche en Maladies Infectieuses et Tropicales Emergentes (URMITE), UM63, CNRS 7278, IRD 198 (Dakar, Sénégal), Inserm 1095, Faculté de Médecine, 27 bd Jean Moulin, 13385 Marseille cedex 5, France
| | - Jean-Michel Berenger
- Aix Marseille Université, Unité de Recherche en Maladies Infectieuses et Tropicales Emergentes (URMITE), UM63, CNRS 7278, IRD 198 (Dakar, Sénégal), Inserm 1095, Faculté de Médecine, 27 bd Jean Moulin, 13385 Marseille cedex 5, France
| | - Didier Musso
- Pôle de recherche et de veille sur les maladies infectieuses émergentes, Institut Louis Malardé, PO Box 30, 98713 Tahiti, French Polynesia
| | - Didier Raoult
- Aix Marseille Université, Unité de Recherche en Maladies Infectieuses et Tropicales Emergentes (URMITE), UM63, CNRS 7278, IRD 198 (Dakar, Sénégal), Inserm 1095, Faculté de Médecine, 27 bd Jean Moulin, 13385 Marseille cedex 5, France
| | - Philippe Parola
- Aix Marseille Université, Unité de Recherche en Maladies Infectieuses et Tropicales Emergentes (URMITE), UM63, CNRS 7278, IRD 198 (Dakar, Sénégal), Inserm 1095, Faculté de Médecine, 27 bd Jean Moulin, 13385 Marseille cedex 5, France.
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Khoo JJ, Chen F, Kho KL, Ahmad Shanizza AI, Lim FS, Tan KK, Chang LY, AbuBakar S. Bacterial community in Haemaphysalis ticks of domesticated animals from the Orang Asli communities in Malaysia. Ticks Tick Borne Dis 2016; 7:929-937. [PMID: 27132518 DOI: 10.1016/j.ttbdis.2016.04.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2016] [Revised: 04/08/2016] [Accepted: 04/20/2016] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Ticks are vectors in the transmission of many important infectious diseases in human and animals. Ticks can be readily found in the semi-forested areas such as the settlements of the indigenous people in Malaysia, the Orang Asli. There is still minimal information available on the bacterial agents associated with ticks found in Malaysia. We performed a survey of the bacterial communities associated with ticks collected from domestic animals found in two Orang Asli villages in Malaysia. We collected 62 ticks, microscopically and molecularly identified as related to Haemaphysalis wellingtoni, Haemaphysalis hystricis and Haemaphysalis bispinosa. Bacterial 16s rRNA hypervariable region (V6) amplicon libraries prepared from the tick samples were sequenced on the Ion Torrent PGM platform. We detected a total of 392 possible bacterial genera after pooling and sequencing 20 samples, indicating a diverse bacterial community profile. Dominant taxa include the potential tick endosymbiont, Coxiella. Other dominant taxa include the tick-associated pathogen, Rickettsia, and environmental bacteria such as Bacillus, Mycobacterium, Sphingomonas and Pseudomonas. Other known tick-associated bacteria were also detected, including Anaplasma, Ehrlichia, Rickettsiella and Wolbachia, albeit at very low abundance. Specific PCR was performed on selected samples to identify Rickettsia and Coxiella. Sequence of Rickettsia felis, which causes spotted fever in human and cats, was identified in one sample. Coxiella endosymbionts were detected in three samples. This study provides the baseline knowledge of the microbiome of ticks in Malaysia, focusing on tick-associated bacteria affecting the Orang Asli communities. The role of the herein found Coxiella and Rickettsia in tick physiology or disease transmission merits further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing-Jing Khoo
- Tropical Infectious Diseases Research and Education Centre (TIDREC), Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur 50603, Malaysia; Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur 50603, Malaysia.
| | - Fezshin Chen
- Tropical Infectious Diseases Research and Education Centre (TIDREC), Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur 50603, Malaysia; Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur 50603, Malaysia.
| | - Kai Ling Kho
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur 50603, Malaysia.
| | - Azzy Iyzati Ahmad Shanizza
- Tropical Infectious Diseases Research and Education Centre (TIDREC), Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur 50603, Malaysia; Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur 50603, Malaysia.
| | - Fang-Shiang Lim
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur 50603, Malaysia.
| | - Kim-Kee Tan
- Tropical Infectious Diseases Research and Education Centre (TIDREC), Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur 50603, Malaysia; Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur 50603, Malaysia.
| | - Li-Yen Chang
- Tropical Infectious Diseases Research and Education Centre (TIDREC), Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur 50603, Malaysia; Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur 50603, Malaysia.
| | - Sazaly AbuBakar
- Tropical Infectious Diseases Research and Education Centre (TIDREC), Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur 50603, Malaysia; Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur 50603, Malaysia.
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