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Kruglova M, Nikitin N, Evtushenko E, Matveeva I, Mazurov A, Pavlenko I, Popova V, Bogomolova O, Vasilyev S, Markova E, Fedorov Y. Inactivated Flagellin-Containing Vaccine Efficacy against Ovine Enzootic Abortion. Pathogens 2024; 13:277. [PMID: 38668231 PMCID: PMC11053442 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens13040277] [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: 02/17/2024] [Revised: 03/21/2024] [Accepted: 03/22/2024] [Indexed: 04/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Chlamydia abortus is the etiological agent of abortion and fetal loss in sheep, goats and bovine cattle in many countries. Even though commercially available vaccines can reduce the incidence in sheep, the development of new, safe, and effective vaccines remains high on the agenda. In this study, an evaluation was made of the efficacy of a vaccine candidate, an inactivated antigen based on the extract of outer membrane proteins of a C. abortus strain known as Chlamydia VNITIBP-21, in combination with recombinant flagellin as an adjuvant. Pregnant sheep (n = 43) were divided into three groups: an experimental vaccinated group, a control infected group and a control non-infected group. The sheep were vaccinated twice, with an interval of 3 weeks, then infected with the homologous virulent strain of Chlamydia abortus on pregnancy day 75. The vaccine candidate reduced C. abortus shedding in vaginal swabs considerably, in comparison with the control group. In addition, ewes in the experimental group experienced no abortions, while those in the control group experienced instances of abortion, as well as births of weak and nonviable lambs. The findings show that the vaccine candidate proved itself to be promising in combatting the agent of ovine abortion and fetal loss.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Kruglova
- All-Russian Scientific Research and Technological Institute of Biological Industry, Biocombinat, 141142 Moscow, Russia
| | - Nikolai Nikitin
- Department of Virology, Lomonosov Moscow State University, 119234 Moscow, Russia
| | - Ekaterina Evtushenko
- Department of Virology, Lomonosov Moscow State University, 119234 Moscow, Russia
| | - Irina Matveeva
- All-Russian Scientific Research and Technological Institute of Biological Industry, Biocombinat, 141142 Moscow, Russia
| | - Aleksandr Mazurov
- All-Russian Scientific Research and Technological Institute of Biological Industry, Biocombinat, 141142 Moscow, Russia
| | - Igor Pavlenko
- All-Russian Scientific Research and Technological Institute of Biological Industry, Biocombinat, 141142 Moscow, Russia
| | - Vera Popova
- All-Russian Scientific Research and Technological Institute of Biological Industry, Biocombinat, 141142 Moscow, Russia
| | - Olesya Bogomolova
- All-Russian Scientific Research and Technological Institute of Biological Industry, Biocombinat, 141142 Moscow, Russia
| | - Stepan Vasilyev
- All-Russian Scientific Research and Technological Institute of Biological Industry, Biocombinat, 141142 Moscow, Russia
| | - Evgeniya Markova
- All-Russian Scientific Research and Technological Institute of Biological Industry, Biocombinat, 141142 Moscow, Russia
| | - Yuri Fedorov
- All-Russian Scientific Research and Technological Institute of Biological Industry, Biocombinat, 141142 Moscow, Russia
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Szymańska-Czerwińska M, Zaręba-Marchewka K, Niemczuk K. New insight on chlamydiae. J Vet Res 2023; 67:559-565. [PMID: 38130448 PMCID: PMC10730554 DOI: 10.2478/jvetres-2023-0067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2023] [Accepted: 11/24/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023] Open
Abstract
This article provides an overview of the current knowledge on chlamydiae, which are intracellular bacteria belonging to the Chlamydiaceae family. Whole-genome sequencing leads to great increases in the available data about Chlamydia spp. Recently, novel chlamydial taxons in various hosts living in different environments have been recognised. New species and taxons with Candidatus status have been recorded mainly in birds and reptiles. Chlamydia gallinacea is an emerging infectious agent in poultry with indirectly confirmed zoonotic potential. Recently, a new group of avian C. abortus strains with worldwide distribution in various wild bird families has been described. The definition of C. abortus species became outdated with the discovery of these strains and has been amended. It now includes two subgroups, mammalian and avian, the latter including all isolates hitherto referred to as atypical C. psittaci or C. psittaci/C. abortus intermediates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monika Szymańska-Czerwińska
- Department of Cattle and Sheep Diseases, Puławy, Poland
- Laboratory of Serological Diagnosis, National Veterinary Research Institute, 24-100Puławy, Poland
| | | | - Krzysztof Niemczuk
- Department of Cattle and Sheep Diseases, Puławy, Poland
- Laboratory of Serological Diagnosis, National Veterinary Research Institute, 24-100Puławy, Poland
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Richardson S, Bell CR, Medhavi F, Tanner T, Lundy S, Omosun Y, Igietseme JU, Eko FO. A novel cold-chain free VCG-based subunit vaccine protects against Chlamydia abortus-induced neonatal mortality in a pregnant mouse model. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1243743. [PMID: 37915580 PMCID: PMC10616880 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1243743] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2023] [Accepted: 09/28/2023] [Indexed: 11/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Chlamydia abortus (Cab) causes spontaneous abortion and neonatal mortality in infected ruminants and pregnant women. Most Cab infections are asymptomatic, although they can be treated with antibiotics, signifying that control of these infections may require alternative strategies, including the use of effective vaccines. However, the limitations imposed by live attenuated and inactivated vaccines further suggest that employment of subunit vaccines may need to be considered. The efficacy of a newly generated Vibrio cholerae ghost (rVCG)-based subunit vaccine harboring the N-terminal portion of the Cab Pmp18D protein (rVCG-Pmp18.3) in preventing Cab-induced abortion or neonatal mortality was evaluated in pregnant mice. Mice were intranasally (IN) immunized and boosted twice, 2 weeks apart with the vaccine, and immunized and unimmunized mice were caged with males 4 weeks postimmunization. The mice were then infected either IN or transcervically (TC) 10 days after pregnancy, and the fertility rate was determined 7 days postpartum. Eight days after delivery, the mice were sacrificed, and Cab infectivity in the lungs and spleens was evaluated by culturing tissue homogenates in tissue culture. Our results demonstrated that the vaccine induced immune effectors that mediated complete clearance of infection in the lungs and significantly reduced Cab infectivity in the spleen following IN immunization. Vaccine immunization also afforded protection against Cab-induced upper genital tract pathology (uterine dilation). Furthermore, while there was no incidence of abortion in both immunized and unimmunized mice, immunized mice were completely protected against neonatal mortality compared to unimmunized infected controls, which lost a significant percentage of their litter 7 days postpartum. Our results establish the capability of the rVCG-Pmp18.3 vaccine to prevent infection in the lungs (mucosal) and spleen (systemic) and protect mice from Cab-induced tubal pathologies and neonatal mortality, a hallmark of Cab infection in ruminants. To advance the commercial potential of this vaccine, future studies will optimize the antigen dose and the number of vaccine doses required for protection of ruminants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shakyra Richardson
- Department of Microbiology, Biochemistry and Immunology, Morehouse School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Courtnee R. Bell
- Department of Microbiology, Biochemistry and Immunology, Morehouse School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Fnu Medhavi
- Department of Microbiology, Biochemistry and Immunology, Morehouse School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Tayhlor Tanner
- Department of Microbiology, Biochemistry and Immunology, Morehouse School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Stephanie Lundy
- Department of Microbiology, Biochemistry and Immunology, Morehouse School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Yusuf Omosun
- Department of Microbiology, Biochemistry and Immunology, Morehouse School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Joseph U. Igietseme
- National Center for Emerging Zoonotic and Infectious Diseases, Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Francis O. Eko
- Department of Microbiology, Biochemistry and Immunology, Morehouse School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, United States
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Huang J, Liu C, Zhou Z, Xia H, Zhu Z, Lu J, Lin J, Chen Z, Ye Q, Zuo L. Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation in Severe Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome Caused by Chlamydia abortus: A Case Report. Infect Drug Resist 2023; 16:3893-3901. [PMID: 37361935 PMCID: PMC10289095 DOI: 10.2147/idr.s411331] [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: 03/06/2023] [Accepted: 05/16/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Pneumonia infected by Chlamydia abortus (C. abortus) is rare, especially complicated with severe acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) and multiple organ dysfunction syndrome (MODS). Case Presentation We presented the clinical details of a 44-year-old male who was diagnosed with C. abortus pneumonia, which rapidly progressed and ultimately led to ARDS, sepsis and MODS. Although he was initially diagnosed with pneumonia upon admission, no pathogenic bacteria were detected in sputum by conventional tests. Empirical intravenous infusion of meropenem and moxifloxacin was administered, but unfortunately, his condition deteriorated rapidly, especially respiratory status. On Day 2 after extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) initiation, metagenomic next-generation sequencing (mNGS) was performed on the patient's bronchoalveolar lavage fluid, which indicated an infection with C. abortus. The patient's antimicrobial therapy was adjusted to oral doxycycline (0.1g every 12h), intravenous azithromycin (0.5g every day), and imipenem and cilastatin sodium (1g every 6h). The patient's condition improved clinically and biologically. However, the patient was discharged due to financial reasons and unfortunately passed away eight hours later. Conclusion Infections with C. abortus can result in severe ARDS and serious visceral complications which necessitate prompt diagnosis and active intervention by clinicians. The case highlights the significance of mNGS as an essential diagnostic tool for uncommon pathogens. Tetracyclines, macrolides or their combinations are effective choices for treatment of C. abortus pneumonia. Further study is needed to explore the transmission routes of C. abortus pneumonia and establish precise guidelines for antibiotic treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiequn Huang
- Department of Intensive Care Unit, Shunde Hospital, Southern Medical University (The First People’s Hospital of Shunde Foshan), Foshan, Guangdong, People’s Republic of China
| | - Changzhi Liu
- Department of Intensive Care Unit, Shunde Hospital, Southern Medical University (The First People’s Hospital of Shunde Foshan), Foshan, Guangdong, People’s Republic of China
| | - Zhujiang Zhou
- Department of Intensive Care Unit, Shunde Hospital, Southern Medical University (The First People’s Hospital of Shunde Foshan), Foshan, Guangdong, People’s Republic of China
| | - Han Xia
- Department of Scientific Affairs, Hugobiotech Co, Ltd, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Zhensheng Zhu
- Department of Scientific Affairs, Hugobiotech Co, Ltd, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Jianhai Lu
- Department of Intensive Care Unit, Shunde Hospital, Southern Medical University (The First People’s Hospital of Shunde Foshan), Foshan, Guangdong, People’s Republic of China
| | - Jingcheng Lin
- Department of Intensive Care Unit, Shunde Hospital, Southern Medical University (The First People’s Hospital of Shunde Foshan), Foshan, Guangdong, People’s Republic of China
| | - Zhen Chen
- Department of Intensive Care Unit, Shunde Hospital, Southern Medical University (The First People’s Hospital of Shunde Foshan), Foshan, Guangdong, People’s Republic of China
| | - Qimei Ye
- Department of Intensive Care Unit, Shunde Hospital, Southern Medical University (The First People’s Hospital of Shunde Foshan), Foshan, Guangdong, People’s Republic of China
| | - Liuer Zuo
- Department of Intensive Care Unit, Shunde Hospital, Southern Medical University (The First People’s Hospital of Shunde Foshan), Foshan, Guangdong, People’s Republic of China
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Gong F, Chen Z, Chang J, Liu J, Wang X, Mo W, Tan M, Jiang T. Metagenomic Next-Generation Sequencing Contributes to the Diagnosis of Pneumonia Caused by Chlamydia abortus in a Male Patient: Case Report and Literature Review. Infect Drug Resist 2023; 16:3463-3468. [PMID: 37293537 PMCID: PMC10244205 DOI: 10.2147/idr.s407741] [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: 02/08/2023] [Accepted: 05/23/2023] [Indexed: 06/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Chlamydia abortus is generally considered as the main cause of ruminants abortion, but it rarely causes human infection resulting in abortion or pneumonia. Case Presentation We report a case of male patient with pneumonia caused by Chlamydia abortus. Results of next generation sequencing (NGS) in the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) indicated Chlamydia abortus infection. The patient was treated with intravenous infusion of doxycycline. The clinical symptoms of this patient were ameliorated significantly, and all these improvement were indicated by laboratory parameters significantly. Shown as chest computed tomography (CT), most of the inflammation had been absorbed after doxycycline treatment. Conclusion Chlamydia abortus mainly infects ruminants and occasionally humans. NGS has its own advantages of rapidity, sensitivity and specificity in detecting Chlamydia abortus. Doxycycline exhibits a great therapeutic effect on pneumonia caused by Chlamydia abortus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fan Gong
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Hunan University of Medicine General Hospital, Huaihua, 418000, People’s Republic of China
| | - Zhikui Chen
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Hunan University of Medicine General Hospital, Huaihua, 418000, People’s Republic of China
| | - Jianyuan Chang
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Hunan University of Medicine General Hospital, Huaihua, 418000, People’s Republic of China
| | - Jinlong Liu
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Hunan University of Medicine General Hospital, Huaihua, 418000, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xiaobin Wang
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Hunan University of Medicine General Hospital, Huaihua, 418000, People’s Republic of China
| | - Weisong Mo
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Hunan University of Medicine General Hospital, Huaihua, 418000, People’s Republic of China
| | - Mengqin Tan
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Hunan University of Medicine General Hospital, Huaihua, 418000, People’s Republic of China
| | - Tao Jiang
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Hunan University of Medicine General Hospital, Huaihua, 418000, People’s Republic of China
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Ricard RM, Burton J, Chow-Lockerbie B, Wobeser B. Detection of Chlamydia abortus in aborted chorioallantoises of horses from Western Canada. J Vet Diagn Invest 2023:10406387231171844. [PMID: 37129380 DOI: 10.1177/10406387231171844] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Chlamydiae are reported to cause abortion in several species, however the association between Chlamydia sp. and equine abortions is poorly understood. A zoonotic transfer event of C. psittaci from aborted equine tissues in Australia has emphasized the need to better understand the prevalence of this pathogen in equine populations. The prevalence of chlamydia in equine abortions in North America has not been investigated thoroughly. We examined 99 formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded placental samples submitted between 2009 and 2020 from equine abortions in Western Canada using chlamydia-specific 16S rRNA conventional PCR testing; 26 of 99 submissions tested positive for chlamydial DNA. Most of these submissions (n = 17) had no final diagnosis noted on their original pathology reports. DNA sequencing identified 22 of the 26 cases as C. abortus; 21 of the 22 C. abortus-positive samples were positive on chlamydial immunohistochemistry. These findings contrast with studies in Europe that found a low prevalence of chlamydiae using similar methodology. The high prevalence of the potentially zoonotic C. abortus identified in our study suggests that more substantial biosecurity protocols may be warranted for equine foaling, abortion, and stillbirth in Western Canada to prevent zoonotic transfer of the pathogen.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Madison Ricard
- Department of Veterinary Pathology, Western College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada
| | - Jaidyn Burton
- Department of Veterinary Pathology, Western College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada
| | - Betty Chow-Lockerbie
- Department of Veterinary Pathology, Western College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada
| | - Bruce Wobeser
- Department of Veterinary Pathology, Western College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada
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Wang L, Lin C, Qi Y. Gestational psittacosis causes severe pneumonia and miscarriage: A case report and literature review. Radiol Case Rep 2023; 18:1959-1962. [PMID: 36970243 PMCID: PMC10030822 DOI: 10.1016/j.radcr.2023.02.034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2023] [Revised: 02/07/2023] [Accepted: 02/16/2023] [Indexed: 03/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Psittacosis is an uncommon zoonotic illness, and gestational psittacosis is even rarer. The clinical signs and symptoms of psittacosis are varied, often overlooked, and swiftly identified by metagenomic next-generation sequencing. We recorded the case of a 41-year-old pregnant woman with psittacosis where the disease was not detected early on, resulting in severe pneumonia and fetal miscarriage. The clinical symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment of psittacosis in pregnancy are the subject of this case study.
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8
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Abu-Saif RA, Al-Basha AS, Al-Younes HM. First evidence for the existence of Simkania negevensis in the genitalia of human females. ENFERMEDADES INFECCIOSAS Y MICROBIOLOGIA CLINICA (ENGLISH ED.) 2023; 41:79-84. [PMID: 36759057 DOI: 10.1016/j.eimce.2022.11.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2021] [Accepted: 06/02/2021] [Indexed: 02/10/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Simkania negevensis has been linked to some respiratory and non-respiratory diseases. However, there is still a serious lack of clinical investigations that attempt to determine possible body sites that could be inhabited by this microorganism and evaluate its true pathogenic capacity. The goal of this study was to examine the potential presence of Simkania and its prevalence in the genital tract of human adult females. METHODS Lower vaginal swabs from 169 Jordanian adult females who attended Obstetrics and Gynecology clinic were collected and tested for Simkania DNA by PCR method. RESULTS The presence of bacterial nucleic acids was confirmed in the genital system of adult females with an overall prevalence of 24.26% (41/169). Interestingly, the positivity of Simkania DNA was significantly higher in women of reproductive age than females of non-reproductive age (28.03% versus 10.81%; p≤0.05). Moreover, the presence of S. negevensis was evident in approximately 43% of females suffering from vaginal itching and/or abnormal discharge, exhibiting about two-fold increase in the positivity rate compared to detection rates assessed for women who attended the clinic for routine checkup or menstruation problems. However, the current work failed to find any link between the bacterial agent and spontaneous abortion (miscarriage). CONCLUSIONS This study showed for the first time the presence of S. negevensis in the genitalia of human females. These novel data could provide a basis to clarify the exact role of S. negevensis in the female genitalia and its potential involvement in genital system disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raneem A Abu-Saif
- Department of Biological Sciences, School of Science, the University of Jordan, Amman, Jordan
| | - Asma S Al-Basha
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, the University of Jordan, Amman, Jordan
| | - Hesham M Al-Younes
- Department of Biological Sciences, School of Science, the University of Jordan, Amman, Jordan.
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Yoshimura M, Shimizu K, Nakura Y, Kawahara K, Katano H, Motooka D, Takeuchi M, Nagamune K, Imamura Y, Nakamura S, Yasukawa K, Hasegawa H, Yoshida Y, Yanagihara I. A fatal case of hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis associated with gestational psittacosis without symptoms of pneumonia. J Obstet Gynaecol Res 2022; 48:3325-3330. [PMID: 36097654 DOI: 10.1111/jog.15429] [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: 06/01/2022] [Revised: 08/29/2022] [Accepted: 08/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Psittacosis is a zoonotic infection caused by Chlamydia psittaci. Most patients present with acute respiratory symptoms and systemic illness. When C. psittaci infects pregnant women, it causes severe clinical manifestations called gestational psittacosis. Here we report a case of gestational psittacosis. Our patient lacked respiratory symptoms, and pathological postmortem examinations revealed severe placentitis. Both DNA and immunohistochemical analyses were positive for C. psittaci from formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded tissues. The chlamydial DNA in the placenta was about 100 times more abundant than that in the lungs; therefore, the placenta rather than the lungs was the probable target of the C. psittaci infection during this pregnancy. We could not identify the source of infection. Gestational psittacosis should be considered in the differential diagnosis for fever of unknown origin during pregnancy, even in cases lacking respiratory symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michinobu Yoshimura
- Department of Developmental Medicine, Research Institute, Osaka Women's and Children's Hospital, Osaka, Japan
| | - Kanako Shimizu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Maizuru Kyosai Hospital, Kyoto, Japan.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Fukui, Fukui, Japan
| | - Yukiko Nakura
- Department of Developmental Medicine, Research Institute, Osaka Women's and Children's Hospital, Osaka, Japan
| | - Kazumi Kawahara
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Maizuru Kyosai Hospital, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Harutaka Katano
- Department of Pathology, National Institute of Infectious Diseases, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Daisuke Motooka
- Department of Infection Metagenomics, Research Institute for Microbial Diseases, Osaka University, Osaka, Japan
| | - Makoto Takeuchi
- Department of Pathology, Osaka Women's and Children's Hospital, Osaka, Japan
| | - Kisaburo Nagamune
- Department of Parasitology, National Institute of Infectious Diseases, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yoshiaki Imamura
- Division of Diagnostic Pathology/Surgical Pathology, University of Fukui, Fukui, Japan
| | - Shota Nakamura
- Department of Infection Metagenomics, Research Institute for Microbial Diseases, Osaka University, Osaka, Japan
| | - Kiyoshi Yasukawa
- Division of Food Science and Biotechnology, Graduate School of Agriculture, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Hideki Hasegawa
- Department of Pathology, National Institute of Infectious Diseases, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yoshio Yoshida
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Fukui, Fukui, Japan
| | - Itaru Yanagihara
- Department of Developmental Medicine, Research Institute, Osaka Women's and Children's Hospital, Osaka, Japan
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Turin L, Surini S, Wheelhouse N, Rocchi MS. Recent advances and public health implications for environmental exposure to Chlamydia abortus: from enzootic to zoonotic disease. Vet Res 2022; 53:37. [PMID: 35642008 PMCID: PMC9152823 DOI: 10.1186/s13567-022-01052-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2021] [Accepted: 03/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Environmental transmission of Chlamydia abortus as a result of enzootic disease or disease outbreaks and the threats posed by this pathogen has been previously reported, however a state-of-the-science review of these reports and the identification of future research priorities in this area is still lacking. This study provides an overview of the current knowledge of host–pathogen–environment interactions, addressing public health risks and identifying critical questions and research gaps. We performed a systematic PubMed and Web of Science search for publications related to Chlamydia abortus in the past four decades, and we reviewed and combined the evidence critically discussing and commenting the results. A total of 182 studies, 5 chapters of specific books and the “OIE terrestrial manual” were included in this review. There were substantial variations between the studies in topic addressed and experimental design. Overall, the literature largely supports the crucial role played by environmental exposure on the acquisition of zoonotic disease caused by Chlamydia abortus. We also identify the paucity of information related to interspecies transmission and pathogen adaptation in relation to environmental dissemination and zoonotic risk. This analysis further highlights the need for additional research given that environmental transmission represents a serious risk not only to susceptible patients (pregnant women and immunocompromised individuals), but also for other species including wildlife.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauretta Turin
- Department of Veterinary Medicine (DIMEVET), University of Milan, Milan, Italy.
| | - Sara Surini
- Department of Veterinary Medicine (DIMEVET), University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Nick Wheelhouse
- School of Applied Sciences, Edinburgh Napier University, Sighthill Court, Edinburgh, EH11 4BN, UK
| | - Mara Silvia Rocchi
- Moredun Research Institute, Bush Loan, Pentlands Science Park, Penicuik, EH26 0PZ, Scotland, UK
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11
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Aaziz R, Laroucau K, Gobbo F, Salvatore D, Schnee C, Terregino C, Lupini C, Di Francesco A. Occurrence of Chlamydiae in Corvids in Northeast Italy. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:ani12101226. [PMID: 35625072 PMCID: PMC9137748 DOI: 10.3390/ani12101226] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2022] [Revised: 05/06/2022] [Accepted: 05/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary The continuous improvement of next-generation sequencing techniques has led to an expansion of the number of Chlamydia species, as well as their host range. Recent studies performed on wild birds have detected Chlamydia strains with characteristics intermediate between Chlamydia psittaci and Chlamydia abortus. In this study, 12/108 corvids tested positive for Chlamydia by real-time PCR. Molecular characterisation at the species level was possible for eight samples, with one positive for C. psittaci and seven for C. abortus. Considering the well-known zoonotic role of C. psittaci and that a potential zoonotic role of avian C. abortus strains cannot be excluded, people who may have professional or other contact with wild birds should take appropriate preventive measures. Abstract Chlamydiaceae occurrence has been largely evaluated in wildlife, showing that wild birds are efficient reservoirs for avian chlamydiosis. In this study, DNA extracted from cloacal swabs of 108 corvids from Northeast Italy was screened for Chlamydiaceae by 23S real-time (rt)PCR. The positive samples were characterised by specific rtPCRs for Chlamydia psittaci, Chlamydia abortus, Chlamydia gallinacea, Chlamydia avium, Chlamydia pecorum and Chlamydia suis. Cloacal shedding of Chlamydiaceae was detected in 12 out of 108 (11.1%, 5.9%–18.6% 95% CI) corvids sampled. Molecular characterisation at the species level was possible in 8/12 samples, showing C. psittaci positivity in only one sample from a hooded crow and C. abortus positivity in seven samples, two from Eurasian magpies and five from hooded crows. Genotyping of the C. psittaci-positive sample was undertaken via PCR/high-resolution melting, clustering it in group III_pigeon, corresponding to the B genotype based on former ompA analysis. For C. abortus genotyping, multilocus sequence typing was successfully performed on the two samples with high DNA load from Eurasian magpies, highlighting 100% identity with the recently reported Polish avian C. abortus genotype 1V strain 15-58d44. To confirm the intermediate characteristics between C. psittaci and C. abortus, both samples, as well as two samples from hooded crows, showed the chlamydial plasmid inherent in most C. psittaci and avian C. abortus, but not in ruminant C. abortus strains. The plasmid sequences were highly similar (≥99%) to those of the Polish avian C. abortus genotype 1V strain 15-58d44. To our knowledge, this is the first report of avian C. abortus strains in Italy, specifically genotype 1V, confirming that they are actively circulating in corvids in the Italian region tested.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachid Aaziz
- Bacterial Zoonoses Unit, Animal Health Laboratory, Anses, University Paris-Est, 94700 Maisons-Alfort, France; (R.A.); (K.L.)
| | - Karine Laroucau
- Bacterial Zoonoses Unit, Animal Health Laboratory, Anses, University Paris-Est, 94700 Maisons-Alfort, France; (R.A.); (K.L.)
| | - Federica Gobbo
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale delle Venezie, 35020 Legnaro, PD, Italy; (F.G.); (C.T.)
| | - Daniela Salvatore
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, University of Bologna, 40064 Ozzano dell’Emilia, BO, Italy; (D.S.); (C.L.)
| | - Christiane Schnee
- Institute of Molecular Pathogenesis, Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut (Federal Research Institute for Animal Health), D-07743 Jena, Germany;
| | - Calogero Terregino
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale delle Venezie, 35020 Legnaro, PD, Italy; (F.G.); (C.T.)
| | - Caterina Lupini
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, University of Bologna, 40064 Ozzano dell’Emilia, BO, Italy; (D.S.); (C.L.)
| | - Antonietta Di Francesco
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, University of Bologna, 40064 Ozzano dell’Emilia, BO, Italy; (D.S.); (C.L.)
- Correspondence:
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DIENSTHUBER D, SIMNACHER U, PETERS S, WALTHER P, ESSIG A, HAGEMANN JB. Clearing Chlamydia abortus infection in epithelial cells and primary human macrophages by use of antibiotics and the MDM2-p53-inhibitor nutlin-3. Diagn Microbiol Infect Dis 2022; 103:115715. [DOI: 10.1016/j.diagmicrobio.2022.115715] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2021] [Revised: 03/21/2022] [Accepted: 04/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
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Zhu C, Lv M, Huang J, Zhang C, Xie L, Gao T, Han B, Wang W, Feng G. Bloodstream infection and pneumonia caused by Chlamydia abortus infection in China: a case report. BMC Infect Dis 2022; 22:181. [PMID: 35197012 PMCID: PMC8867867 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-022-07158-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2021] [Accepted: 02/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Chlamydia abortus is generally considered to cause abortion, stillbirth, and gestational sepsis in pregnant women, but it’s rare in bloodstream infection and pneumonia. Case presentation We present details of a patient with bloodstream infection and pneumonia caused by Chlamydia abortus. Both blood next-generation sequencing (NGS) and sputum NGS indicate Chlamydia abortus infection. The patient received intravenous infusion of piperacillin sodium and tazobactam sodium (4.5 g/8 h) and moxifloxacin (0.4 g/d) and oral oseltamivir (75 mg/day). Within one month of follow-up, the patient's clinical symptoms were significantly improved, and all laboratory parameters showed no marked abnormality. However, chest computer tomography (CT) showed the inflammation wasn’t completely absorbed. And we are still following up. Conclusions Chlamydia abortus can cause pneumonia in humans. NGS has the particular advantage of quickly and accurately identifying the infection of such rare pathogens. Pneumonia is generally not life-threatening, and has a good prognosis with appropriate treatment. However, Chlamydia infection can lead to serious visceral complications which clinicians should pay attention to.
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Affiliation(s)
- Changjun Zhu
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210000, China
| | - Minjie Lv
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210000, China
| | - Jianling Huang
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210000, China
| | - Changwen Zhang
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210000, China
| | - Lixu Xie
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210000, China
| | - Tianming Gao
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210000, China
| | - Bo Han
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210000, China
| | - Wenjing Wang
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210000, China
| | - Ganzhu Feng
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210000, China.
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Abu-Saif RA, Al-Basha AS, Al-Younes HM. First evidence for the existence of Simkania negevensis in the genitalia of human females. Enferm Infecc Microbiol Clin 2021; 41:S0213-005X(21)00209-3. [PMID: 34315616 DOI: 10.1016/j.eimc.2021.06.013] [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: 02/03/2021] [Revised: 05/20/2021] [Accepted: 06/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Simkania negevensis has been linked to some respiratory and non-respiratory diseases. However, there is still a serious lack of clinical investigations that attempt to determine possible body sites that could be inhabited by this microorganism and evaluate its true pathogenic capacity. The goal of this study was to examine the potential presence of Simkania and its prevalence in the genital tract of human adult females. METHODS Lower vaginal swabs from 169 Jordanian adult females who attended Obstetrics and Gynecology clinic were collected and tested for Simkania DNA by PCR method. RESULTS The presence of bacterial nucleic acids was confirmed in the genital system of adult females with an overall prevalence of 24.26% (41/169). Interestingly, the positivity of Simkania DNA was significantly higher in women of reproductive age than females of non-reproductive age (28.03% versus 10.81%; p≤0.05). Moreover, the presence of S. negevensis was evident in approximately 43% of females suffering from vaginal itching and/or abnormal discharge, exhibiting about two-fold increase in the positivity rate compared to detection rates assessed for women who attended the clinic for routine checkup or menstruation problems. However, the current work failed to find any link between the bacterial agent and spontaneous abortion (miscarriage). CONCLUSIONS This study showed for the first time the presence of S. negevensis in the genitalia of human females. These novel data could provide a basis to clarify the exact role of S. negevensis in the female genitalia and its potential involvement in genital system disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raneem A Abu-Saif
- Department of Biological Sciences, School of Science, the University of Jordan, Amman, Jordan
| | - Asma S Al-Basha
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, the University of Jordan, Amman, Jordan
| | - Hesham M Al-Younes
- Department of Biological Sciences, School of Science, the University of Jordan, Amman, Jordan.
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15
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Liang L, Wen Y, Li Z, Liu P, Liu X, Tan S, Liu D, Zhou J, Tong D. Seroprevalence of Chlamydia abortus infection in yak (Bos grunniens) in Tibet, China. Ir Vet J 2021; 74:19. [PMID: 34193296 PMCID: PMC8246664 DOI: 10.1186/s13620-021-00199-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2021] [Accepted: 06/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Chlamydia spp. are prevalent zoonotic pathogens that infect a wide variety of host species. Chlamydia abortus (C. abortus) infection in yaks has been reported in Gansu and Qinghai province, China. However, no data about C. abortus infection are available in yaks in Tibet, China. A total of 938 serum samples was collected from yaks in Tibet, China and specific antibodies against C. abortus were detected by the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The results showed that the overall seroprevalence of C. abortus in yaks was 104/938 (11.1 %, 95 % confidence interval [CI] 9.1–13.1). The prevalence in female and male yaks was 59/556 (10.6 %, 95 % CI 8.0-13.2) and 45/382 (11.8 %, 95 % CI 8.5–15.0), respectively with no significant difference (p > 0.05). The seroprevalence of antibodies to C. abortus in yaks ranged from 8.0 to 18.2 % among the six different areas, and the difference was also without statistical significance (p > 0.05). The prevalence among different age groups ranged from 7.0 to 15.9 %, with a higher prevalence among 1 to 2 years age category. The results demonstrate the presence of C. abortus infection in yaks in Tibet and may pose a risk for the general yak populations in addition to its potential impact on public health and the local Tibetan economy. To our knowledge, this is the first seroprevalence survey of C. abortus in yaks in Tibet, China.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lin Liang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, 712100, Yangling, China
| | - Yuan Wen
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, 712100, Yangling, China.,State Key Laboratory of Veterinary Etiological Biology, Lanzhou Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, 730046, Lanzhou, China
| | - Zhaocai Li
- State Key Laboratory of Veterinary Etiological Biology, Lanzhou Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, 730046, Lanzhou, China
| | - Ping Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Veterinary Etiological Biology, Lanzhou Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, 730046, Lanzhou, China
| | - Xing Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Veterinary Etiological Biology, Lanzhou Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, 730046, Lanzhou, China
| | - Shuming Tan
- State Key Laboratory of Veterinary Etiological Biology, Lanzhou Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, 730046, Lanzhou, China
| | - Donghui Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Veterinary Etiological Biology, Lanzhou Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, 730046, Lanzhou, China
| | - Jizhang Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Veterinary Etiological Biology, Lanzhou Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, 730046, Lanzhou, China.
| | - Dewen Tong
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, 712100, Yangling, China.
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Richardson S, Medhavi F, Tanner T, Lundy S, Omosun Y, Igietseme JU, Carroll D, Eko FO. Cellular Basis for the Enhanced Efficacy of the Fms-Like Tyrosine Kinase 3 Ligand (FL) Adjuvanted VCG-Based Chlamydia abortus Vaccine. Front Immunol 2021; 12:698737. [PMID: 34249004 PMCID: PMC8264281 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.698737] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2021] [Accepted: 06/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Efficacious vaccines are needed to control genital chlamydial diseases in humans and the veterinary industry. We previously reported a C. abortus (Cab) vaccine comprising recombinant Vibrio cholerae ghosts (rVCG) expressing the conserved and immunogenic N-terminal region of the Cab polymorphic membrane protein D (rVCG-Pmp18.1) protein that protected mice against intravaginal challenge. In this study, we investigated the immunomodulatory effect of the hematopoietic progenitor activator cytokine, Fms-like tyrosine kinase 3-ligand (FL) when co-administered with the rVCG-Pmp18.1 vaccine as a strategy to enhance the protective efficacy and the potential mechanism of immunomodulation. Groups of female C57BL/6J mice were immunized and boosted twice intranasally (IN) with rVCG-PmpD18.1 with and without FL or purified rPmp18.1 or rVCG-gD2 (antigen control) or PBS (medium) per mouse. The results revealed that co-administration of the vaccine with FL enhanced antigen-specific cellular and humoral immune responses and protected against live Cab genital infection. Comparative analysis of immune cell phenotypes infiltrating mucosal and systemic immune inductive tissue sites following immunization revealed that co-administration of rVCG-Pmp18.1 with FL significantly enhanced the number of macrophages, dendritic and NK cells, γδ and NK T cells in the spleen (systemic) and iliac lymph nodes (ILN) draining the genital tract (mucosal) tissues compared to rVCG-Pmp18.1 alone. Furthermore, FL enhanced monocyte infiltration in the ILN, while CD19+ B cells and CD4+ T cells were enhanced in the spleen. These results indicate that the immunomodulatory effect of FL is associated with its ability to mobilize innate immune cells and subsequent activation of robust antigen-specific immune effectors in mucosal and systemic lymphoid tissues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shakyra Richardson
- Department of Microbiology, Biochemistry and Immunology, Morehouse School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Fnu Medhavi
- Department of Microbiology, Biochemistry and Immunology, Morehouse School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Tayhlor Tanner
- Department of Microbiology, Biochemistry and Immunology, Morehouse School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Stephanie Lundy
- Department of Microbiology, Biochemistry and Immunology, Morehouse School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Yusuf Omosun
- Department of Microbiology, Biochemistry and Immunology, Morehouse School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Joseph U. Igietseme
- National Center for Emerging Zoonotic and Infectious Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Darin Carroll
- National Center for Emerging Zoonotic and Infectious Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Francis O. Eko
- Department of Microbiology, Biochemistry and Immunology, Morehouse School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, United States
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Fayez M, Elmoslemany A, Alorabi M, Alkafafy M, Qasim I, Al-Marri T, Elsohaby I. Seroprevalence and Risk Factors Associated with Chlamydia abortus Infection in Sheep and Goats in Eastern Saudi Arabia. Pathogens 2021; 10:pathogens10040489. [PMID: 33920727 PMCID: PMC8072607 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens10040489] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2021] [Revised: 04/11/2021] [Accepted: 04/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Chlamydia abortus (C. abortus) is intracellular, Gram-negative bacterium that cause enzootic abortion in sheep and goats. Information on C. abortus seroprevalence and flock management risk factors associated with C. abortus seropositivity in sheep and goats in Saudi Arabia are scarce. The objectives of this study were to (i) estimate the animal, flock, and within-flock seroprevalence of C. abortus among Eastern Province sheep and goat flocks and (ii) identify the flock management and animal risk factors associated with C. abortus seropositivity in Eastern Province, Saudi Arabia. A cross-sectional study with a two-stage sampling process was carried out in the Eastern Province, Saudi Arabia, between 2015 and 2016. A total of 1717 sheep and 1101 goat serum samples were collected from 21 sheep and 14 goat flocks, then were tested for C. abortus antibodies using a commercial ELISA Kit. In addition, vaginal swabs and aborted tissue samples were collected from sheep (n = 48) and goats (n = 15) with recent history of abortion for detection of C. abortuspmp gene using PCR. A questionnaire was constructed to collect information about flock management and animal risk factors possibly associated with C. abortus infection in sheep and goats. The true sheep and goat-level seroprevalences were 11.1% (95% CI: 9.7–12.7) and 10.6% (95% CI: 8.8–12.5), respectively. The true flock-level seroprevalence was 100% for both sheep and goats. However, the average within sheep and goat flocks true seroprevalences were 9.6% (95% CI: 1.8–22.9) and 9.3% (95% CI: 1.8–19.5), respectively. Multivariable logistic regression revealed that introduction of new sheep to the flocks (OR = 2.6; 95% CI: 1.5–4.4), type of breeding system (OR = 1.8; 95% CI: 1.0–3.4), flocks allowing females in (OR = 1.9; 95% CI: 1.1–3.3) or females out (OR = 2.2; 95% CI: 1.1–4.3), and sheep age 1.4–2.8 years (OR = 1.9; 95% CI: 1.3–2.9) were potential risk factors for C. abortus seropositivity in sheep flocks. However, in goat flocks, the introduction of new goats to the flocks (OR: 1.9; 95% CI: 1.2–3.0) was identified as a risk factor, whereas good farm hygiene (OR: 0.3; 95% CI: 0.2–0.7) was identified as a protective factor. C. abortus pmp gene was identified in 45 (93.8%) and 15 (100%) of samples collected from sheep and goats, respectively. These results could be used to implement efficient management measures to prevent and control C. abortus infection in sheep and goats in Eastern Province, Saudi Arabia, but also could be used to reduce the risk of C. abortus infection in sheep and goat flocks with similar management practices in other regions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahmoud Fayez
- Al-Ahsa Veterinary Diagnostic Lab, Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture, Al-Ahsa 31982, Saudi Arabia; (M.F.); (T.A.-M.)
- Department of Bacteriology, Veterinary Serum and Vaccine Research Institute, Ministry of Agriculture, Cairo 131, Egypt
| | - Ahmed Elmoslemany
- Hygiene and Preventive Medicine Department, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kafrelsheikh University, Kafr El-Sheikh 33516, Egypt;
| | - Mohammed Alorabi
- Department of Biotechnology, College of Science, Taif University, P.O. Box 11099, Taif 21944, Saudi Arabia; (M.A.); (M.A.)
| | - Mohamed Alkafafy
- Department of Biotechnology, College of Science, Taif University, P.O. Box 11099, Taif 21944, Saudi Arabia; (M.A.); (M.A.)
| | - Ibrahim Qasim
- Department of Animal Resources, Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture, Riyadh 12629, Saudi Arabia;
| | - Theeb Al-Marri
- Al-Ahsa Veterinary Diagnostic Lab, Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture, Al-Ahsa 31982, Saudi Arabia; (M.F.); (T.A.-M.)
| | - Ibrahim Elsohaby
- Department of Animal Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Zagazig University, Zagazig City 44511, Egypt
- Department of Health Management, Atlantic Veterinary College, University of Prince Edward Island, Charlottetown, PE C1A 4P3, Canada
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-902-566-6063
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Esmaeili H, Bolourchi M, Mokhber-Dezfouli MR, khaltabadi farahani R, Teimourpour A. Detection of Chlamydia abortus and risk factors for infection in small ruminants in Iran. Small Rumin Res 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.smallrumres.2021.106339] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
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Pichon N, Guindre L, Laroucau K, Cantaloube M, Nallatamby A, Parreau S. Chlamydia abortus in Pregnant Woman with Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome. Emerg Infect Dis 2021; 26:628-629. [PMID: 32091383 PMCID: PMC7045842 DOI: 10.3201/eid2603.191417] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
We describe a case of Chlamydia abortus in a woman in rural France who was pregnant, developed severe generalized infection, and suffered fetal loss. The case stresses the need for healthcare personnel to perform thorough anamnesis in pregnant women in farming areas and to advise them to avoid contact with small ruminants.
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20
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Arif ED, Saeed NM, Rachid SK. Isolation and Identification of Chlamydia abortus from Aborted Ewes in Sulaimani Province, Northern Iraq. Pol J Microbiol 2020; 69:1-7. [PMID: 32108450 PMCID: PMC7256821 DOI: 10.33073/pjm-2020-009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2019] [Revised: 01/20/2020] [Accepted: 01/30/2020] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Abortion in small ruminants is a significant problem in Iraq and causes severe economic losses in sheep farms. Chlamydia abortus causes enzootic abortion in ewes and is associated with reproductive problems in sheep in Sulaimani province – Northern Iraq. During a lambing season in 2017, abortion was widespread among several sheep flocks in different regions of Sulaimani (Kalar, Said Sadiq, and Chamchamal), and C. abortus was one of the causes. Accordingly, we carried out this study to isolate and identify C. abortus in aborted ewes in these regions. We collected 30 samples of aborted fetuses from five herds in which abortions had been observed. The pathogen isolation was done by inoculation into embryonated chicken eggs and conventional PCR was used to identify C. abortus in clinical specimens. C. abortus was identified in one of the 30 aborted fetuses (3.33%) from the Kalar district, and all the remaining 29 samples (96.66%) were found positive to Brucella abortus. The gene ompA encoding the outer membrane protein of C. abortus was sequenced and got the accession number MK643153 in NCBI GenBank. The sequence was named C. abortus strain Sul/2017. Our isolate showed 99.79% homology with Sul/014 (accession No. KY399850) and differed from the latter by two amino acid substitutions at E115K and K259N. The topology of the phylogenetic tree based on the ompA gene showed that the isolate belongs to C. abortus and has a common ancestor with isolates of sheep in Iraq and Tunisia with accession numbers KY399850 and HQ62243, respectively.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eman Dhahir Arif
- Department of Microbiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Sulaimani , New Sulaimani, Sulaymaniyah, Kurdistan Region , Northern Iraq
| | - Nahla Muhammad Saeed
- Department of Microbiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Sulaimani , New Sulaimani, Sulaymaniyah, Kurdistan Region , Northern Iraq
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Marschall MT, Simnacher U, Walther P, Essig A, Hagemann JB. The Putative Type III Secreted Chlamydia abortus Virulence-Associated Protein CAB063 Targets Lamin and Induces Apoptosis. Front Microbiol 2020; 11:1059. [PMID: 32523581 PMCID: PMC7261910 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2020.01059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2020] [Accepted: 04/29/2020] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Since intracellular survival of all chlamydiae depends on the manipulation of the host cell through type III secreted effector proteins, their characterization is crucial for the understanding of chlamydial pathogenesis. We functionally characterized the putative type III secreted Chlamydia abortus protein CAB063, describe its intracellular localization and identified pro- and eukaryotic binding partners. Based on an experimental infection model and plasmid transfections, we investigated the subcellular localization of CAB063 by immunofluorescence microscopy, immunoelectron microscopy, and Western blot analysis. Pro- and eukaryotic targets were identified by co-immunofluorescence, co-immunoprecipitation, and mass spectrometry. Transmission electron microscopy and flow cytometry were used for morphological and functional investigations on host cell apoptosis. CAB063 localized in the nuclear membrane of the host cell nucleus and we identified the chaperone HSP70 and lamin A/C as pro- and eukaryotic targets, respectively. CAB063-dependent morphological alterations of the host cell nucleus correlated with increased apoptosis rates of infected and CAB063-transfected cells. We provide evidence that CAB063 is a chaperone-folded type III secreted C. abortus virulence factor that targets lamin thereby altering the host cell nuclear membrane structure. This process may be responsible for an increased apoptosis rate at the end of the chlamydial developmental cycle, at which CAB063 is physiologically expressed.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ulrike Simnacher
- Institute of Medical Microbiology and Hygiene, Ulm University Hospital, Ulm, Germany
| | - Paul Walther
- Central Facility for Electron Microscopy, Ulm University, Ulm, Germany
| | - Andreas Essig
- Institute of Medical Microbiology and Hygiene, Ulm University Hospital, Ulm, Germany
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Katsura D, Tsuji S, Kimura F, Tanaka T, Eguchi Y, Murakami T. Gestational psittacosis: A case report and literature review. J Obstet Gynaecol Res 2020; 46:673-677. [PMID: 32077210 DOI: 10.1111/jog.14217] [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: 09/18/2019] [Accepted: 02/07/2020] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Gestational psittacosis is a rare disease that is associated with significant maternal and fetal morbidity and mortality. Currently, there is no examination method which allows for a quick diagnosis. We report a case of gestational psittacosis that could not be diagnosed as psittacosis during treatment and resulted in maternal and fetal death despite intensive treatment. We also reviewed 23 cases of gestational psittacosis. Fetal and maternal mortality was 82.6% (19/23) and 8.7% (2/23), respectively. In pregnant women with high fever and flu-like symptoms, we should suspect Chlamydia psittaci infection if at least one of the following is present; contact with sheep, parrots, parakeets or goats; normal or moderately decreased leucocyte count, thrombocytopenia and hepatic and/or renal dysfunction; cough and/or lobe consolidation or infiltration on chest X-ray. Antibiotic therapy with macrolide prenatally, macrolide or tetracycline postnatally and termination of pregnancy should be considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daisuke Katsura
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shiga University of Medical Science Hospital, Otsu, Japan
| | - Shunichiro Tsuji
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shiga University of Medical Science Hospital, Otsu, Japan
| | - Fuminori Kimura
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shiga University of Medical Science Hospital, Otsu, Japan
| | - Tomoki Tanaka
- Department of Emergency and Critical Care Medicine, Shiga University of Medical Science Hospital, Otsu, Japan
| | - Yutaka Eguchi
- Department of Emergency and Critical Care Medicine, Shiga University of Medical Science Hospital, Otsu, Japan
| | - Takashi Murakami
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shiga University of Medical Science Hospital, Otsu, Japan
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Chlamydiaceae: Diseases in Primary Hosts and Zoonosis. Microorganisms 2019; 7:microorganisms7050146. [PMID: 31137741 PMCID: PMC6560403 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms7050146] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2019] [Revised: 05/19/2019] [Accepted: 05/20/2019] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Bacteria of the Chlamydiaceae family are a type of Gram-negative microorganism typified by their obligate intracellular lifestyle. The majority of the members in the Chlamydiaceae family are known pathogenic organisms that primarily infect the host mucosal surfaces in both humans and animals. For instance, Chlamydia trachomatis is a well-known etiological agent for ocular and genital sexually transmitted diseases, while C. pneumoniae has been implicated in community-acquired pneumonia in humans. Other chlamydial species such as C. abortus, C. caviae, C. felis, C. muridarum, C. pecorum, and C. psittaci are important pathogens that are associated with high morbidities in animals. Importantly, some of these animal pathogens have been recognized as zoonotic agents that pose a significant infectious threat to human health through cross-over transmission. The current review provides a succinct recapitulation of the characteristics as well as transmission for the previously established members of the Chlamydiaceae family and a number of other recently described chlamydial organisms.
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Antimicrobial Resistance in Chlamydiales, Rickettsia, Coxiella, and Other Intracellular Pathogens. Microbiol Spectr 2018; 6. [PMID: 29651977 DOI: 10.1128/microbiolspec.arba-0003-2017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
This article will provide current insights into antimicrobial susceptibilities and resistance of an important group of bacterial pathogens that are not phylogenetically related but share lifestyle similarities in that they are generally considered to be obligate intracellular microbes. As such, there are shared challenges regarding methods for their detection and subsequent clinical management. Similarly, from the laboratory perspective, susceptibility testing is rarely undertaken, though molecular approaches might provide new insights. One should also bear in mind that the highly specialized microbial lifestyle restricts the opportunity for lateral gene transfer and, consequently, acquisition of resistance.
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First Report of Chlamydia abortus in Farmed Fur Animals. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2018; 2018:4289648. [PMID: 30598995 PMCID: PMC6287152 DOI: 10.1155/2018/4289648] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2018] [Revised: 11/06/2018] [Accepted: 11/12/2018] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Chlamydia (C.) abortus, a globally distributed obligate intracellular bacterium, has attracted increasing interest according to its veterinary importance and zoonotic nature. C. abortus can infect a variety of animals and cause foetal loss in livestock resulting in economic loss. In this study, the samples collected from two farms of foxes (n=20), raccoon dogs (n=15) and minks (n=20), were investigated by Chlamydiaceae- and Chlamydia species-specific real-time PCR. The results showed that all the tested foxes (20/20) and raccoon dogs (15/15) harbored Chlamydia spp., while 5% of minks (1/20) were positive for Chlamydia spp. C. abortus was identified in all positive samples as the dominant Chlamydia species, with C. pecorum DNA coexistence in some of the rectal samples (7/20) taken from foxes. Phylogenetic analysis based on specific gene fragments of 16S rRNA, IGS-23S rRNA, and ompA revealed that all sequences obtained in this study were assigned to the Chlamydiaceae family with high similarity to C. abortus S26/3 and B577 previously identified in ruminants. This is the first report confirming that farmed foxes, raccoon dogs, and minks carry C. abortus. Further studies are needed to fully elucidate the epidemiology and pathogenicity of this pathogen in farmed fur animals as well as the potential risks to public health.
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Beder T, Saluz HP. Virulence-related comparative transcriptomics of infectious and non-infectious chlamydial particles. BMC Genomics 2018; 19:575. [PMID: 30068313 PMCID: PMC6090853 DOI: 10.1186/s12864-018-4961-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2018] [Accepted: 07/25/2018] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Members of the phylum Chlamydiae are obligate intracellular pathogens of humans and animals and have a serious impact on host health. They comprise several zoonotic species with varying disease outcomes and prevalence. To investigate differences in virulence, we focused on Chlamydia psittaci, C. abortus and Waddlia chondrophila. Most threatening is C. psittaci, which frequently infects humans and causes psittacosis associated with severe pneumonia. The closest relative of C. psittaci is C. abortus, which shares the vast majority of genes but less frequently infects humans, and causes stillbirth and sepsis. W. chondrophila is more distantly related, and occasional human infections are associated with respiratory diseases or miscarriage. One possible explanation for differences in virulence originate from species-specific genes as well as differentially expressed homologous virulence factors. RESULTS RNA-sequencing (RNA-Seq) was applied to purified infectious elementary bodies (EBs) and non-infectious reticulate bodies (RBs) in order to elucidate the transcriptome of the infectious and replicative chlamydial states. The results showed that approximately half of all genes were differentially expressed. For a descriptive comparison, genes were categorised according to their function in the RAST database. This list was extended by the inclusion of inclusion membrane proteins, outer membrane proteins, polymorphic membrane proteins and type III secretion system effectors. In addition, the expression of fifty-six known and a variety of predicted virulence and immunogenic factors with homologs in C. psittaci, C. abortus and W. chondrophila was analysed. To confirm the RNA-Seq results, the expression of nine factors was validated using real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR). Comparison of RNA-Seq and RT-qPCR results showed a high mean Pearson correlation coefficient of 0.95. CONCLUSIONS It was shown that both the replicative and infectious chlamydial state contained distinctive transcriptomes and the cellular processes emphasised in EBs and RBs differed substantially based on the chlamydial species. In addition, the very first interspecies transcriptome comparison is presented here, and the considerable differences in expression of homologous virulence factors might contribute to the differing infection rates and disease outcomes of the pathogens. The RNA-Seq results were confirmed by RT-qPCR and demonstrate the feasibility of interspecies transcriptome comparisons in chlamydia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Beder
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology - Hans Knöll Institute (HKI), Beutenbergstraße 11A, 07745, Jena, Germany.,Network Modelling, Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology - Hans Knöll Institute (HKI), Beutenbergstraße 11A, 07745, Jena, Germany.,Center for Sepsis Control and Care (CSCC), Jena University Hospital, Jena, Germany
| | - Hans Peter Saluz
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology - Hans Knöll Institute (HKI), Beutenbergstraße 11A, 07745, Jena, Germany. .,Friedrich Schiller University, Fürstengraben 1, 07743, Jena, Germany.
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Ndengu M, Matope G, Tivapasi M, Scacchia M, Bonfini B, Pfukenyi DM, de Garine-Wichatitsky M. Sero-prevalence of chlamydiosis in cattle and selected wildlife species at a wildlife/livestock interface area of Zimbabwe. Trop Anim Health Prod 2018; 50:1107-1117. [PMID: 29464541 DOI: 10.1007/s11250-018-1536-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2017] [Accepted: 02/01/2018] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
A study was conducted to investigate the seroprevalence and associated risk factors of Chlamydia abortus infection in cattle and some selected wildlife species at selected interface areas at the periphery of the Great Limpopo Transfrontier Conservation Area in Zimbabwe. Three study sites were selected based on the type of livestock-wildlife interface, porous livestock-wildlife interface (unrestricted), non-porous livestock-wildlife interface (restricted by fencing), and livestock-wildlife non-interface (totally absent or control). Sera were collected from cattle aged ≥ 2 years representing both female and intact male. Sera were also collected from selected wild ungulates from Mabalauta (porous interface) and Chipinda Pools (non-interface) areas of the Gonarezhou National Park. Sera were tested for antibodies to Chlamydia abortus using a CFT. A X 2 test was used to assess differences between categories and p < 0.05 was considered as significant. In cattle, the overall seroprevalence was 32.7% (327/1011; 95% CI 29.5-35.3). A significantly lower seroprevalence was recorded for the porous interface (24.2%) compared to the non-porous (42.5%) (p < 0.0001) and the non-interface (36.2%) (p = 0.001). Overall, the wet season recorded a significantly (p = 0.015) higher seroprevalence than the dry season. In wildlife, antibodies were detected in buffaloes (47.7%) and impalas (43.8%) but not in kudus. Buffaloes from Chipinda Pools (53.4%) had a significantly (p = 0.036) higher seroprevalence than those from Mabalauta (26.1%). The results established the presence of chlamydiosis in cattle and selected wildlife and that independent infections may be maintained in buffalo populations. Further studies are required to clarify chlamydiae circulating between cattle and wildlife.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masimba Ndengu
- Department of Clinical Veterinary Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Zimbabwe, P.O. Box MP 167, Mount Pleasant, Harare, Zimbabwe. .,Research Platform Production and Conservation in Partnership, P.O. Box 1378, Harare, Zimbabwe.
| | - Gift Matope
- Research Platform Production and Conservation in Partnership, P.O. Box 1378, Harare, Zimbabwe.,Department of Paraclinical Veterinary Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Zimbabwe, P.O. Box MP 167, Mount Pleasant, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Musavengana Tivapasi
- Department of Clinical Veterinary Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Zimbabwe, P.O. Box MP 167, Mount Pleasant, Harare, Zimbabwe.,Research Platform Production and Conservation in Partnership, P.O. Box 1378, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Massimo Scacchia
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale dell'Abruzzo e Del Molise "G.Caporale", Via Campo Boario, 64100, Teramo, Italy
| | - Barbara Bonfini
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale dell'Abruzzo e Del Molise "G.Caporale", Via Campo Boario, 64100, Teramo, Italy
| | - Davis Mubika Pfukenyi
- Department of Clinical Veterinary Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Zimbabwe, P.O. Box MP 167, Mount Pleasant, Harare, Zimbabwe.,Research Platform Production and Conservation in Partnership, P.O. Box 1378, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Michel de Garine-Wichatitsky
- Research Platform Production and Conservation in Partnership, P.O. Box 1378, Harare, Zimbabwe.,UR AGIRs, Cirad, Campus International de Baillarguet, 34398, Montpellier, France
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Chlamydia trachomatis and chlamydia-like bacteria: new enemies of human pregnancies. Curr Opin Infect Dis 2018; 30:289-296. [PMID: 28306562 DOI: 10.1097/qco.0000000000000369] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW This review provides an update on the roles of Chlamydia trachomatis and the related Waddlia chondrophila and Parachlamydia acanthamoebae in miscarriage, stillbirths and preterm labour in humans. A broad audience, including microbiologist, infectiologists, obstetricians and gynaecologists, should be aware of the potential threat of these Chlamydiales for human reproduction. RECENT FINDINGS Despite increasing laboratory techniques and possibilities to perform diagnostic tests, the cause of miscarriage is only identified in 50% of the cases. Intracellular bacteria, such as C. trachomatis and Chlamydia-related bacteria, are difficult to detect in routine clinical samples and could represent possible agents of miscarriages. C. trachomatis is considered the world largest sexual transmitted bacterial agent and is associated with adverse pregnancy outcome in human. In the last decade Chlamydia-like organisms, such as W. chondrophila and P. acanthamoebae, have also been associated with adverse pregnancy outcomes in human and/or animals. SUMMARY We review here the current evidences for a pathogenic role in humans, the diagnostic approaches and possible treatment options of C. trachomatis, W. chondrophila and P. acanthamoebae.
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Szymańska-Czerwińska M, Mitura A, Zaręba K, Schnee C, Koncicki A, Niemczuk K. Poultry in Poland as Chlamydiaceae Carrier. J Vet Res 2017; 61:411-419. [PMID: 29978103 PMCID: PMC5937338 DOI: 10.1515/jvetres-2017-0072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2017] [Accepted: 12/08/2017] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction The study was conducted to investigate the prevalence and genetic diversity of Chlamydia spp. in poultry in Poland and estimate possible transmission to humans. Material and Methods Molecular diagnostic methods followed by sequencing and strain isolation were used on cloacal/faecal swabs collected from 182 apparently healthy poultry flocks including chickens, turkeys, ducks, and geese. Serum samples obtained from people exposed (study group) and non-exposed (control group) to birds were tested by complement fixation test to acquire data on Chlamydia spp. antibody level. Results Overall, 15.9% of the tested flocks were Chlamydiaceae-positive and three Chlamydia spp. were identified. Predominant chlamydial agent found was C. gallinacea occurring in 65.5% of all positive poultry flocks and in 73.0% of positive chicken flocks. The sequences from four chicken flocks were assigned to C. abortus, whereas C. psittaci was confirmed in one duck and one goose flock. The analysis of ompA variable domains revealed at least nine genetic variants of C. gallinacea. Chlamydial antibodies were detected in 19.2% of human serum samples in the study group in comparison with 10.8% in the controls. Conclusion The obtained results confirm that chlamydiae are common among chicken flocks in Poland with C. gallinacea as a dominant species. Moreover, the presence of C. abortus in chickens is reported here for the first time. Further investigation should focus on possible zoonotic transmission of C. gallinacea and C. abortus as well as potential pathogenic effects on birds’ health and poultry production.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Agata Mitura
- Department of Cattle and Sheep Diseases, National Veterinary Research Institute, 24-100 Pulawy, Poland
| | - Kinga Zaręba
- Department of Cattle and Sheep Diseases, National Veterinary Research Institute, 24-100 Pulawy, Poland
| | - Christiane Schnee
- Institute of Molecular Pathogenesis, Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, 07 743 Jena, Germany
| | - Andrzej Koncicki
- Department of Poultry Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Warmia and Mazury, 10-719 Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Krzysztof Niemczuk
- Department of Cattle and Sheep Diseases, National Veterinary Research Institute, 24-100 Pulawy, Poland
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Pan Q, Zhang Q, Chu J, Pais R, Liu S, He C, Eko FO. Chlamydia abortus Pmp18.1 Induces IL-1β Secretion by TLR4 Activation through the MyD88, NF-κB, and Caspase-1 Signaling Pathways. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2017; 7:514. [PMID: 29326885 PMCID: PMC5741698 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2017.00514] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2017] [Accepted: 11/29/2017] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The polymorphic membrane protein D (Pmp18D) is a 160-kDa outer membrane protein that is conserved and plays an important role in Chlamydia abortus pathogenesis. We have identified an N-terminal fragment of Pmp18D (designated Pmp18.1) as a possible subunit vaccine antigen. In this study, we evaluated the vaccine potential of Pmp18.1 by investigating its ability to induce innate immune responses in dendritic cells and the signaling pathway(s) involved in rPmp18.1-induced IL-1β secretion. We next investigated the immunomodulatory impact of VCG, in comparison with the more established Th1-promoting adjuvants, CpG and FL, on rPmp18.1-mediated innate immune activation. Finally, the effect of siRNA targeting TLR4, MyD88, NF-κB p50, and Caspase-1 mRNA in DCs on IL-1β cytokine secretion was also investigated. Bone marrow-derived dendritic cells (BMDCs) were stimulated with rPmp18.1 in the presence or absence of VCG or CpG or FL and the magnitude of cytokines produced was assessed using a multiplex cytokine ELISA assay. Expression of costimulatory molecules and Toll-like receptors (TLRs) was analyzed by flow cytometry. Quantitation of intracellular levels of myeloid differentiation factor 88 (MyD88), nuclear factor kappa beta (NF-κB p50/p65), and Caspase-1 was evaluated by Western immunoblotting analysis while NF-κB p65 nuclear translocation was assessed by confocal microscopy. The results showed DC stimulation with rPmp18.1 provoked the secretion of proinflammatory cytokines and upregulated expression of TLRs and co-stimulatory molecules associated with DC maturation. These responses were significantly (p ≤ 0.001) enhanced by VCG but not CpG or FL. In addition, rPmp18.1 activated the expression of MyD88, NF-κB p50, and Caspase-1 as well as the nuclear expression of NF-κB p65 in treated DCs. Furthermore, targeting TLR4, MyD88, NF-κB p50, and Caspase-1 mRNA in BMDCs with siRNA significantly reduced their expression levels, resulting in decreased IL-1β cytokine secretion, strongly suggesting their involvement in the rPmp18.1-induced IL-1β cytokine secretion. Taken together, these results indicate that C. abortus Pmp18.1 induces IL-1β secretion by TLR4 activation through the MyD88, NF-κB as well as the Caspase-1 signaling pathways and may be a potential C. abortus vaccine candidate. The vaccine potential of Pmp18.1 will subsequently be evaluated in an appropriate animal model, using VCG as an immunomodulator, following immunization and challenge.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qing Pan
- Department of Microbiology, Biochemistry and Immunology, Morehouse School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, United States.,Key Lab of Animal Epidemiology and Zoonosis of Ministry of Agriculture, College of Veterinary Medicine, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Qiang Zhang
- Key Lab of Animal Epidemiology and Zoonosis of Ministry of Agriculture, College of Veterinary Medicine, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Jun Chu
- Key Lab of Animal Epidemiology and Zoonosis of Ministry of Agriculture, College of Veterinary Medicine, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Roshan Pais
- Department of Microbiology, Biochemistry and Immunology, Morehouse School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Shanshan Liu
- Key Lab of Animal Epidemiology and Zoonosis of Ministry of Agriculture, College of Veterinary Medicine, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Cheng He
- Key Lab of Animal Epidemiology and Zoonosis of Ministry of Agriculture, College of Veterinary Medicine, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Francis O Eko
- Department of Microbiology, Biochemistry and Immunology, Morehouse School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, United States
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Whole-Genome Sequence of Chlamydia abortus Strain GN6 Isolated from Aborted Yak Fetus. GENOME ANNOUNCEMENTS 2017; 5:5/35/e00893-17. [PMID: 28860251 PMCID: PMC5578849 DOI: 10.1128/genomea.00893-17] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
The obligate intracellular Gram-negative bacterium Chlamydia abortus is one of the causative agents of abortion and fetal loss in sheep, goats, and cattle in many countries. It also affects the reproductivity of yaks (Bos grunniens). This study reports the whole-genome sequence of Chlamydia abortus strain GN6, which was isolated from aborted yak fetus in Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau, China.
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Chan J, Doyle B, Branley J, Sheppeard V, Gabor M, Viney K, Quinn H, Janover O, McCready M, Heller J. An outbreak of psittacosis at a veterinary school demonstrating a novel source of infection. One Health 2017; 3:29-33. [PMID: 28616500 PMCID: PMC5454149 DOI: 10.1016/j.onehlt.2017.02.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2016] [Revised: 02/13/2017] [Accepted: 02/22/2017] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
In November 2014, New South Wales Health was notified of a cluster of respiratory illness in a veterinary school. Active case finding identified another case at a local equine stud. All cases had exposure to the equine fetal membranes of Mare A. This tissue subsequently tested positive for Chlamydia psittaci using quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction. We conducted a cohort study of the university and stud farm staff to determine risk factors for disease. Nine people were exposed to the fetal membranes of Mare A. Of these, five cases of psittacosis were identified. Two required hospital admission. Contact with birds was not associated with illness (RR = 0.5, 95% CI = 0.09-2.73). People who had direct contact with the abnormal fetal membranes were more likely to develop disease (RR = 11.77, 95% CI = 1.02-∞). The emergence of an association between horse exposure and C. psittaci infection has important implications for the prevention and control of psittacosis. Article summary line: Investigation of an outbreak of psittacosis in a rural veterinary school demonstrates novel source of infection for psittacosis through exposure to abnormal equine fetal membranes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jocelyn Chan
- Health Protection New South Wales (NSW), NSW Health, North Sydney, NSW, Australia.,National Centre for Epidemiology and Population Health (NCEPH), Australian National University, Canberra, Australian Capital Territory (ACT), Australia
| | - Bridget Doyle
- Public Health Unit, Murrumbidgee Local Health District, Albury, NSW, Australia
| | | | - Vicky Sheppeard
- Health Protection New South Wales (NSW), NSW Health, North Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Melinda Gabor
- State Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory, Department of Primary Industry, Menangle, NSW, Australia
| | - Kerri Viney
- National Centre for Epidemiology and Population Health (NCEPH), Australian National University, Canberra, Australian Capital Territory (ACT), Australia
| | - Helen Quinn
- National Centre for Immunisation Research and Surveillance of Vaccine Preventable Diseases (NCIRS), The Children's Hospital at Westmead, Sydney, NSW, Australia.,Discipline of Paediatrics and Child Health, University of Sydney, The Children's Hospital at Westmead, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Orly Janover
- Public Health Unit, Murrumbidgee Local Health District, Albury, NSW, Australia
| | | | - Jane Heller
- School of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, Charles Sturt University, Wagga Wagga, NSW, Australia
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Ortega N, Caro MR, Gallego MC, Murcia-Belmonte A, Álvarez D, Del Río L, Cuello F, Buendía AJ, Salinas J. Isolation of Chlamydia abortus from a laboratory worker diagnosed with atypical pneumonia. Ir Vet J 2016; 69:8. [PMID: 27446530 PMCID: PMC4955219 DOI: 10.1186/s13620-016-0067-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2016] [Accepted: 07/02/2016] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Identifying the aetiological agent of atypical pneumonia in human can sometimes be a tedious process, especially in cases where Mycoplasma pneumoniae, Legionella species and Chlamydia pneumoniae are ruled out. In such cases, a correct anamnesis of the patient is basic to clarify which pathogens might have produced the infection. For this reason, health professionals including veterinarians and laboratory personnel working with zoonotic pathogens should keep their doctors informed. Case presentation A human case of atypical pneumonia linked to Chlamydia abortus is reported. A 47-year-old male, a veterinarian researcher into chlamydiae, developed respiratory symptoms, breathing problems and high fever. Serological analyses ruled out the involvement of several respiratory pathogens, such as M. pneumoniae, Legionella pneumophila, Rickettsia conorii and C. pneumoniae, and Chlamydia abortus was identified as the possible aetiological agent of the infection. The isolation of C. abortus from the patient’s sputum and subsequent molecular analysis confirmed the presence of this microorganism. Conclusion As far as we know, although C. abortus has not been previously described as capable of causing pneumonia in humans, this is the first reported case of atypical pneumonia in which C. abortus is thought to have played an aetiological role.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nieves Ortega
- Departamento de Sanidad Animal, Facultad de Veterinaria, Campus Regional de Excelencia internacional, Campus Mare Nostrum, Universidad de Murcia, Murcia, Spain
| | - M Rosa Caro
- Departamento de Sanidad Animal, Facultad de Veterinaria, Campus Regional de Excelencia internacional, Campus Mare Nostrum, Universidad de Murcia, Murcia, Spain
| | - M Carmen Gallego
- Departamento de Sanidad Animal, Facultad de Veterinaria, Campus Regional de Excelencia internacional, Campus Mare Nostrum, Universidad de Murcia, Murcia, Spain
| | - Antonio Murcia-Belmonte
- Departamento de Sanidad Animal, Facultad de Veterinaria, Campus Regional de Excelencia internacional, Campus Mare Nostrum, Universidad de Murcia, Murcia, Spain
| | - Daniel Álvarez
- Departamento de Sanidad Animal, Facultad de Veterinaria, Campus Regional de Excelencia internacional, Campus Mare Nostrum, Universidad de Murcia, Murcia, Spain
| | - Laura Del Río
- Departamento de Sanidad Animal, Facultad de Veterinaria, Campus Regional de Excelencia internacional, Campus Mare Nostrum, Universidad de Murcia, Murcia, Spain
| | - Francisco Cuello
- Departamento de Sanidad Animal, Facultad de Veterinaria, Campus Regional de Excelencia internacional, Campus Mare Nostrum, Universidad de Murcia, Murcia, Spain
| | - Antonio J Buendía
- Departamento de Anatomía y Anatomía Patológica Comparadas, Facultad de Veterinaria, Campus Regional de Excelencia internacional, Campus Mare Nostrum, Universidad de Murcia, Murcia, Spain
| | - Jesús Salinas
- Departamento de Sanidad Animal, Facultad de Veterinaria, Campus Regional de Excelencia internacional, Campus Mare Nostrum, Universidad de Murcia, Murcia, Spain
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Analysis of Humoral Immune Responses to Surface and Virulence-Associated Chlamydia abortus Proteins in Ovine and Human Abortions by Use of a Newly Developed Line Immunoassay. J Clin Microbiol 2016; 54:1883-1890. [PMID: 27194684 DOI: 10.1128/jcm.00351-16] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2016] [Accepted: 05/09/2016] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
The obligate intracellular bacterium Chlamydia abortus is the causative agent of enzootic abortion of ewes and poses a significant zoonotic risk for pregnant women. Using proteomic analysis and gene expression library screening in a previous project, we identified potential virulence factors and candidates for serodiagnosis, of which nine were scrutinized here with a strip immunoassay. We have shown that aborting sheep exhibited a strong antibody response to surface (MOMP, MIP, Pmp13G) and virulence-associated (CPAF, TARP, SINC) antigens. While the latter disappeared within 18 weeks following abortion in a majority of the animals, antibodies to surface proteins persisted beyond the duration of the study. In contrast, nonaborting experimentally infected sheep developed mainly antibodies to surface antigens (MOMP, MIP, Pmp13G), all of which did not persist. We were also able to detect antibodies to these surface antigens in C abortus-infected women who had undergone septic abortion, whereas a group of shepherds and veterinarians with occupational exposure to C abortus-infected sheep revealed only sporadic immune responses to the antigens selected. The most specific antigen for the serodiagnosis of human C abortus infections was Pmp13G, which showed no cross-reactivity with other chlamydiae infecting humans. We suggest that Pmp13G-based serodiagnosis accomplished by the detection of antibodies to virulence-associated antigens such as CPAF, TARP, and SINC may improve the laboratory diagnosis of human and animal C abortus infections.
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Abstract
Zoonoses are infections that spread naturally between species (sometimes by a vector) from animals to other animal species or to humans or from humans to animals. Most of the zoonoses diagnosed in sheep and goats are transmitted by close contact of man with these animals and are, more often, occupational diseases that principally affect breeders, veterinarians and/or slaughterhouse workers. Some other diseases have an airborne transmission and affect the population in the vicinity of sheep/goat farms. Due to the fact that small ruminants are almost the only remaining animals which are migrating in industrialised countries, there is a severe risk for transmitting the diseases. Some other zoonotic diseases are foodborne diseases, which are mainly transmitted from animals to humans and to other animal species by contaminated food and water. Within the last decade central Europe was threatened by some new infections, e.g., bluetongue disease and schmallenberg disease, which although not of zoonotic interest, are caused by pathogens transmitted by vectors. Causal agents of both diseases have found highly effective indigenous vectors. In the future, climate change may possibly modify conditions for the vectors and influence their distribution and competence. By this, other vector-borne zoonotic infections may propagate into former disease free countries. Changes in human behaviour in consummation and processing of food, in animal housing and management may also influence future risks for zoonosis. Monitoring, prevention and control measures are proposed to limit further epidemics and to enable the containment of outbreaks. Measures depend mainly on the damage evoked or anticipated by the disease, the local situation, and the epidemiology of the zoonoses, the presence of the infective agent in wild and other animals, as well as the resistance of the causal microorganisms in the environment and the possibility to breed sheep and goats which are resistant to specific infections. In this review, the clinical signs in animals and humans of the main sheep and goat zoonoses, as well as the transmission route and the control measures are reported. Brucellosis, chlamydophilosis, Q fever, Orf, Rift valley fever and Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy are described in greater detail, in order to determine factors that contribute to the choice of the control strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Ganter
- Clinic for Swine and Small Ruminants, University of Veterinary Medicine, Hannover, Germany.
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Identification and characterization of Chlamydia abortus isolates from yaks in Qinghai, China. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2015; 2015:658519. [PMID: 26060818 PMCID: PMC4427853 DOI: 10.1155/2015/658519] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2015] [Revised: 03/24/2015] [Accepted: 04/12/2015] [Indexed: 12/05/2022]
Abstract
Recently, the yak population has exhibited reproductive disorders, which are considered to be associated with Chlamydia abortus (C. abortus) in Qinghai, China. In this study, a total of 9 aborted fetuses (each from a different herd) and 126 vaginal swab samples from the 9 herds were collected and analyzed. C. abortus DNA was detected from all of the 9 aborted fetuses and 30 of the 126 vaginal swab samples (23.81%) from yak cows in the selected herds. Four C. abortus strains were isolated from embryonated egg yolk sacs inoculated with foetal organ suspensions. The isolated C. abortus strains were further identified, which showed identical restriction profiles with the C. abortus reference strain using AluI restriction enzyme in the RFLP test. Moreover, the isolated C. abortus strains and C. abortus-positive vaginal swab samples were genotyped by multiple loci variable number tandem repeat analysis and all belonged to the genotype 2 group. These findings suggested that C. abortus played a substantial role in yak abortion in Qinghai, China.
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Chlamydia abortus: New Aspects of Infectious Abortion in Sheep and Potential Risk for Pregnant Women. CURRENT CLINICAL MICROBIOLOGY REPORTS 2015. [DOI: 10.1007/s40588-015-0014-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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Pan Q, Pais R, Ohandjo A, He C, He Q, Omosun Y, Igietseme JU, Eko FO. Comparative evaluation of the protective efficacy of two formulations of a recombinant Chlamydia abortus subunit candidate vaccine in a mouse model. Vaccine 2015; 33:1865-72. [PMID: 25698486 DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2015.02.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2014] [Revised: 01/22/2015] [Accepted: 02/04/2015] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
Chlamydia abortus (C. abortus) is the causative agent of ovine enzootic abortion (OEA) and poses a zoonotic risk to pregnant women. Current live attenuated 1B vaccines are efficacious but cause disease in vaccinated animals and inactivated vaccines are only marginally protective. We tested the ability of a new C. abortus subunit vaccine candidate based on the conserved and immunogenic polymorphic membrane protein D (Pmp18D) formulated in CpG1826+FL (Fms-like tyrosine kinase 3 Ligand; Flt3L) or Vibrio cholerae ghosts (VCG) to induce innate and cross protective immunity against genital C. abortus infection. We found that delivery of rPmp18D with VCG was more effective than with CpG+FL in up-regulating the expression of molecules critically involved in T cell activation and differentiation, including MHC II, CD40, CD80, and CD86, activation of TLRs and NLRP3 inflammasome engagement, and secretion of IL-1β and TNF-α but not IL-10 and IL-4. rVCG-Pmp18D-immunized mice elicited more robust antigen-specific IFN-γ, IgA and IgG2c antibody responses compared to CpG+FL-delivered rPmp18D. Based on the number of mice with positive vaginal cultures, length of vaginal shedding, and number of inclusion forming units recovered following challenge with the heterologous C. abortus strain B577, vaccine delivery with VCG induced superior protective immunity than delivery with a combination of CpG1826 and FL, a nasal DC-targeting adjuvant. These results demonstrate that the ability of VCG to enhance protective immunity against genital C. abortus infection is superior to that of CpG+FL adjuvants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qing Pan
- Department of Microbiology, Biochemistry and Immunology, Morehouse School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA; College of Veterinary Medicine, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Roshan Pais
- Department of Microbiology, Biochemistry and Immunology, Morehouse School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Adaugo Ohandjo
- Department of Microbiology, Biochemistry and Immunology, Morehouse School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Cheng He
- College of Veterinary Medicine, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Qing He
- Department of Microbiology, Biochemistry and Immunology, Morehouse School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Yusuf Omosun
- Department of Microbiology, Biochemistry and Immunology, Morehouse School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - J U Igietseme
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - F O Eko
- Department of Microbiology, Biochemistry and Immunology, Morehouse School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA.
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Merdja SE, Khaled H, Aaziz R, Vorimore F, Bertin C, Dahmani A, Bouyoucef A, Laroucau K. Detection and genotyping of Chlamydia species responsible for reproductive disorders in Algerian small ruminants. Trop Anim Health Prod 2014; 47:437-43. [PMID: 25503075 DOI: 10.1007/s11250-014-0743-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2014] [Accepted: 12/02/2014] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Chlamydiosis in small ruminants is a zoonotic disease mainly related to Chlamydia abortus. This bacterium is responsible for abortions and reproductive disorders in sheep and goats. Stillbirth and infertility, leading to important economic losses, are also associated with this pathology. In Algeria, abortion cases are frequently reported by veterinarians but, except for brucellosis which is a notifiable disease in this country, abortive diseases are in general poorly studied. In order to detect and genotype Chlamydia species in small ruminants in different areas of Algeria, a study was conducted on samples collected from females (164 blood samples and 199 vaginal swabs) between October 2011 and March 2013. Serum samples were tested with a C. abortus-specific indirect ELISA test. Fourteen samples (8.5 %), from six farms (6/20, 30 %) were tested positive. Vaginal swabs were analysed with a real-time PCR targeting all Chlamydiaceae spp. Thirty samples (15 %) were diagnosed positive in 16 farms (16/25, 64 %). Positive samples were all re-tested with a C. abortus- and a C. pecorum-specific real-time PCR. Finally, 13/30 (43.3 %) and 6/30 (20 %) were identified as C. abortus and C. pecorum, respectively. Enough concentrated C. abortus samples were genotyped by multi-loci variable number of tandem repeat (VNTR) analysis (MLVA), and all were related to the genotype [2] group which mainly includes French C. abortus isolates. C. pecorum-positive samples were genotyped by multi-locus sequence typing (MLST). Interestingly, two of them were successfully genotyped and showed identical MLST sequences to VB2, AB10, E58 and SBE, a group which includes C. pecorum isolates considered as highly pathogenic. These findings suggest a possible role of C. abortus and C. pecorum strains in the aetiology of abortion in Algerian small ruminants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Salah-Eddine Merdja
- Institute of Veterinary Science, University of Blida, 09000, Blida, Algeria,
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Campos-Hernández E, Vázquez-Chagoyán JC, Salem AZM, Saltijeral-Oaxaca JA, Escalante-Ochoa C, López-Heydeck SM, de Oca-Jiménez RM. Prevalence and molecular identification of Chlamydia abortus in commercial dairy goat farms in a hot region in Mexico. Trop Anim Health Prod 2014; 46:919-24. [PMID: 24715208 DOI: 10.1007/s11250-014-0585-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/24/2014] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to determine the seroprevalence and presence of Chlamydia abortus in Saanen breed female goats from commercial dairy goat farms under intensive production in the municipality of Guanajuato, Mexico. Sera were collected to determine the prevalence of anti-C. abortus IgG antibodies using recombinant enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (rELISA) and cell culture. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was used to prove the presence of the pathogen in swab samples collected from the vagina and rectum of selected animals. Additionally, foetal tissue samples from a sudden abortion were collected. C. abortus prevalence in female goats of commercial milking farms sampled in Guanajuato, Mexico, was 4.87% (n = 246). Seropositive animals were found in six out of nine (66.6%) dairy goat farms sampled, and prevalence among animals in individual farms ranged between 3.44 and 13.51%. C. abortus was detected using PCR in spleen tissue from the aborted foetus. PCR-based detection, as well as isolation from vaginal and rectal swabs, was not possible in the present study. Isolation through cell culture was also unsuccessful from aborted foetal tissue samples. In conclusion, the results from rELISA and PCR show that C. abortus is present in dairy goat farms in the state of Guanajuato, Mexico.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eleuterio Campos-Hernández
- Facultad de Medicina Veterinaria y Zootecnia, Universidad Autónoma del Estado de México, Estado de México, México
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Wilkat M, Herdoiza E, Forsbach-Birk V, Walther P, Essig A. Electron tomography and cryo-SEM characterization reveals novel ultrastructural features of host-parasite interaction during Chlamydia abortus infection. Histochem Cell Biol 2014; 142:171-84. [PMID: 24522393 DOI: 10.1007/s00418-014-1189-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/22/2014] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Chlamydia (C.) abortus is a widely spread pathogen among ruminants that can be transmitted to women during pregnancy leading to severe systemic infection with consecutive abortion. As a member of the Chlamydiaceae, C. abortus shares the characteristic feature of an obligate intracellular biphasic developmental cycle with two morphological forms including elementary bodies (EBs) and reticulate bodies (RBs). In contrast to other chlamydial species, C. abortus ultrastructure has not been investigated yet. To do so, samples were fixed by high-pressure freezing and processed by different electron microscopic methods. Freeze-substituted samples were analysed by transmission electron microscopy, scanning transmission electron microscopical tomography and immuno-electron microscopy, and freeze-fractured samples were analysed by cryo-scanning electron microscopy. Here, we present three ultrastructural features of C. abortus that have not been reported up to now. Firstly, the morphological evidence that C. abortus is equipped with the type three secretion system. Secondly, the accumulation and even coating of whole inclusion bodies by membrane complexes consisting of multiple closely adjacent membranes which seems to be a C. abortus specific feature. Thirdly, the formation of small vesicles in the periplasmic space of RBs in the second half of the developmental cycle. Concerning the time point of their formation and the fact that they harbour chlamydial components, these vesicles might be morphological correlates of an intermediate step during the process of redifferentiation of RBs into EBs. As this feature has also been shown for C. trachomatis and C. pneumoniae, it might be a common characteristic of the family of Chlamydiaceae.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Wilkat
- Institute of Medical Microbiology and Hygiene, University Hospital of Ulm, Albert-Einstein-Allee 23, 89081, Ulm, Germany,
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Profiling antibody responses to infections by Chlamydia abortus enables identification of potential virulence factors and candidates for serodiagnosis. PLoS One 2013; 8:e80310. [PMID: 24260366 PMCID: PMC3829881 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0080310] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2013] [Accepted: 10/01/2013] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Enzootic abortion of ewes (EAE) due to infection with the obligate intracellular pathogen Chlamydia (C.) abortus is an important zoonosis leading to considerable economic loss to agriculture worldwide. The pathogen can be transmitted to humans and may lead to serious infection in pregnant women. Knowledge about epidemiology, clinical course and transmission to humans is hampered by the lack of reliable diagnostic tools. Immunoreactive proteins, which are expressed in infected animals and humans, may serve as novel candidates for diagnostic marker proteins and represent putative virulence factors. In order to broaden the spectrum of immunogenic C. abortus proteins we applied 2D immunoblot analysis and screening of an expression library using human and animal sera. We have identified 48 immunoreactive proteins representing potential diagnostic markers and also putative virulence factors, such as CAB080 (homologue of the “macrophage infectivity potentiator”, MIP), CAB167 (homologue of the “translocated actin recruitment protein”, TARP), CAB712 (homologue of the “chlamydial protease-like activity factor”, CPAF), CAB776 (homologue of the “Polymorphic membrane protein D”, PmpD), and the “hypothetical proteins” CAB063, CAB408 and CAB821, which are predicted to be type III secreted. We selected two putative virulence factors for further characterization, i.e. CAB080 (cMIP) and CAB063, and studied their expression profiles at transcript and protein levels. Analysis of the subcellular localization of both proteins throughout the developmental cycle revealed CAB063 being the first C. abortus protein shown to be translocated to the host cell nucleus.
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Abstract
This review considers the role of intracellular bacteria in adverse pregnancy outcomes, such as miscarriage, stillbirths, and preterm labour. The cause of miscarriage, stillbirth and preterm labour often remains unexplained. Intracellular bacteria that grow either poorly or not at all on media used routinely to detect human pathogens could be the aetiological agents of these obstetric conditions. For example, Listeria monocytogenes and Coxiella burnetti are intracellular bacteria that have a predilection for the fetomaternal unit and may induce fatal disease in the mother and/or fetus. Both are important foodborne or zoonotic pathogens in pregnancy. Preventive measures, diagnostic tools and treatment will be reviewed. Moreover, we will also address the importance in adverse pregnancy outcomes of other intracellular bacteria, including Brucella abortus and various members of the order Chlamydiales. Indeed, there is growing evidence that Chlamydia trachomatis, Chlamydia abortus and Chlamydia pneumoniae infections may also result in adverse pregnancy outcomes in humans and/or animals. Moreover, newly discovered Chlamydia-like organisms have recently emerged as new pathogens of both animals and humans. For example, Waddlia chondrophila, a Chlamydia-related bacterium isolated from aborted bovine fetuses, has also been implicated in human miscarriages. Future research should help us to better understand the pathophysiology of adverse pregnancy outcomes caused by intracellular bacteria and to determine the precise mode of transmission of newly identified bacteria, such as Waddlia and Parachlamydia. These emerging pathogens may represent the tip of the iceberg of a large number of as yet unknown intracellular pathogenic agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- D Baud
- Institute of Microbiology, University Hospital Centre and University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
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Wheelhouse N, Longbottom D. Endemic and emerging chlamydial infections of animals and their zoonotic implications. Transbound Emerg Dis 2011; 59:283-91. [PMID: 22099945 DOI: 10.1111/j.1865-1682.2011.01274.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
The Chlamydiae are a diverse group of obligate intracellular Gram-negative bacteria that are known to infect a wide variety of host species and are responsible for a wide range of diseases in animals and man. Many of these organisms have been extensively characterized and their zoonotic implications recognized. Studies of human disease first provided evidence for the disease-causing potential of Chlamydia-related bacteria; however, there is now increasing evidence that a number of these organisms may also be the causative agents for a number of pathogenic conditions of livestock that had previously remained undiagnosed. The aim of this review is to draw together the evidence for the role of the newly emerging chlamydial infections in livestock disease, the current understanding of their roles in human disease and highlight the potential for zoonotic transmission.
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Affiliation(s)
- N Wheelhouse
- Moredun Research Institute, Pentlands Science Park, Edinburgh, UK.
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Pannekoek Y, Dickx V, Beeckman DSA, Jolley KA, Keijzers WC, Vretou E, Maiden MCJ, Vanrompay D, van der Ende A. Multi locus sequence typing of Chlamydia reveals an association between Chlamydia psittaci genotypes and host species. PLoS One 2010; 5:e14179. [PMID: 21152037 PMCID: PMC2996290 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0014179] [Citation(s) in RCA: 79] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2010] [Accepted: 11/02/2010] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Chlamydia comprises a group of obligate intracellular bacterial parasites responsible for a variety of diseases in humans and animals, including several zoonoses. Chlamydia trachomatis causes diseases such as trachoma, urogenital infection and lymphogranuloma venereum with severe morbidity. Chlamydia pneumoniae is a common cause of community-acquired respiratory tract infections. Chlamydia psittaci, causing zoonotic pneumonia in humans, is usually hosted by birds, while Chlamydia abortus, causing abortion and fetal death in mammals, including humans, is mainly hosted by goats and sheep. We used multi-locus sequence typing to asses the population structure of Chlamydia. In total, 132 Chlamydia isolates were analyzed, including 60 C. trachomatis, 18 C. pneumoniae, 16 C. abortus, 34 C. psittaci and one of each of C. pecorum, C. caviae, C. muridarum and C. felis. Cluster analyses utilizing the Neighbour-Joining algorithm with the maximum composite likelihood model of concatenated sequences of 7 housekeeping fragments showed that C. psittaci 84/2334 isolated from a parrot grouped together with the C. abortus isolates from goats and sheep. Cluster analyses of the individual alleles showed that in all instances C. psittaci 84/2334 formed one group with C. abortus. Moving 84/2334 from the C. psittaci group to the C. abortus group resulted in a significant increase in the number of fixed differences and elimination of the number of shared mutations between C. psittaci and C. abortus. C. psittaci M56 from a muskrat branched separately from the main group of C. psittaci isolates. C. psittaci genotypes appeared to be associated with host species. The phylogenetic tree of C. psittaci did not follow that of its host bird species, suggesting host species jumps. In conclusion, we report for the first time an association between C. psittaci genotypes with host species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yvonne Pannekoek
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Academic Medical Center, Center for Infection and Immunity Amsterdam (CINIMA), Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Veerle Dickx
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Delphine S. A. Beeckman
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Keith A. Jolley
- Department of Zoology, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Wendy C. Keijzers
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Academic Medical Center, Center for Infection and Immunity Amsterdam (CINIMA), Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Evangelia Vretou
- Laboratory of Biotechnology, Department of Microbiology, Hellenic Pasteur Institute, Athens, Greece
| | | | - Daisy Vanrompay
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Arie van der Ende
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Academic Medical Center, Center for Infection and Immunity Amsterdam (CINIMA), Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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Reinhold P, Sachse K, Kaltenboeck B. Chlamydiaceae in cattle: commensals, trigger organisms, or pathogens? Vet J 2010; 189:257-67. [PMID: 20980178 DOI: 10.1016/j.tvjl.2010.09.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 94] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2010] [Revised: 08/31/2010] [Accepted: 09/01/2010] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Epidemiological data indicate that infection of cattle with chlamydiae such as Chlamydophila (C.) pecorum, C. abortus, C. psittaci and Chlamydia suis, is ubiquitous with mixed infections occurring frequently. The apparent lack of association between infection and clinical disease has resulted in debate as to the pathogenic significance of these organisms, and their tendency to sub-clinical and/or persistent infection presents a challenge to the study of their potential effects. However, recent evidence indicates that chlamydial infections have a substantial and quantifiable impact on livestock productivity with chronic, recurrent infections associated with pulmonary disease in calves and with infertility and sub-clinical mastitis in dairy cows. Data also suggest these infections manifest clinically when they coincide with a number of epidemiological risk factors. Future research should: (1) use relevant animal models to clarify the pathogenesis of bovine chlamydioses; (2) quantify the impact of chlamydial infection at a herd level and identify strategies for its control, including sub-unit vaccine development; and (3) evaluate the zoonotic risk of bovine chlamydial infections which will require the development of species-specific serodiagnostics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Petra Reinhold
- Institute of Molecular Pathogenesis at The Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Naumburger Str. 96a, 07743 Jena, Germany.
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Rohde G, Straube E, Essig A, Reinhold P, Sachse K. Chlamydial zoonoses. DEUTSCHES ARZTEBLATT INTERNATIONAL 2010; 107:174-80. [PMID: 20358033 DOI: 10.3238/arztebl.2010.0174] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2008] [Accepted: 06/24/2009] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Zoonoses were already a subject of intense interest even before the SARS and avian influenza epidemics arose. For many years, chlamydiae have been hypothesized to be important zoonotic pathogens, because of their wide distribution and their infectious cycle. This article provides an overview of the current state of knowledge on this subject. METHODS The authors present a selective review of the literature as well as their own findings. RESULTS The scientific knowledge of the distribution and infectious cycle of chlamydiae is still inadequate. The laboratory diagnosis of chlamydial zoonoses remains unsatisfactory in both human and veterinary medicine, as there are no commercially available sensitive and species-specific tests. Acute chlamydial infections are usually treated with macrolides, tetracyclines, or quinolones. Persistent varieties are not covered by standard therapy. CONCLUSIONS There is a considerable need for research on chlamydial infections, especially with regard to the diagnosis and treatment of persistent varieties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gernot Rohde
- Medizinische Klinik III, Pneumologie, Allergologie, Schlaf- und Beatmungsmedizin, Berufsgenossenschaftliches Universitätsklinikum Bergmannsheil GmbH, Bürkle-de-la-Camp-Platz 1, Bochum, Germany.
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