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Esposito E, Pace A, Affuso A, Oliviero M, Iaccarino D, Paduano G, Maffucci F, Fusco G, De Carlo E, Hochscheid S, Di Nocera F. Antibiotic Resistance of Bacteria Isolated from Clinical Samples and Organs of Rescued Loggerhead Sea Turtles ( Caretta caretta) in Southern Italy. Animals (Basel) 2024; 14:2103. [PMID: 39061565 PMCID: PMC11273476 DOI: 10.3390/ani14142103] [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: 06/21/2024] [Revised: 07/13/2024] [Accepted: 07/17/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Antimicrobial resistance affects all environments, endangering the health of numerous species, including wildlife. Increasing anthropic pressure promotes the acquisition and dissemination of antibiotic resistance by wild animals. Sea turtles, being particularly exposed, are considered sentinels and carriers of potential zoonotic pathogens and resistant strains. Therefore, this study examined the antibiotic resistance profiles of bacteria isolated from loggerhead sea turtles hospitalised in a rescue centre of Southern Italy over a 9-year period. Resistance to ceftazidime, doxycycline, enrofloxacin, flumequine, gentamicin, oxytetracycline and sulfamethoxazole-trimethoprim was evaluated for 138 strains isolated from the clinical samples or organs of 60 animals. Gram-negative families were the most isolated: Vibrionaceae were predominant, followed by Shewanellaceae, Pseudomonadaceae, Enterobacteriaceae and Morganellaceae. These last three families exhibited the highest proportion of resistance and multidrug-resistant strains. Among the three Gram-positive families isolated, Enterococcaceae were the most represented and resistant. The opportunistic behaviour of all the isolated species is particularly concerning for diseased sea turtles, especially considering their resistance to commonly utilised antibiotics. Actually, the multiple antibiotic resistance was higher when the sea turtles were previously treated. Taken together, these findings highlight the need to improve antimicrobial stewardship and monitor antibiotic resistance in wildlife, to preserve the health of endangered species, along with public and environmental health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emanuele Esposito
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Mezzogiorno, Via Salute 2, 80055 Portici, Italy; (M.O.); (D.I.); (G.P.); (G.F.); (E.D.C.); (F.D.N.)
| | - Antonino Pace
- Department of Marine Animal Conservation and Public Engagement, Stazione Zoologica Anton Dohrn, Via Nuova Macello 16, 80055 Portici, Italy; (A.A.); (F.M.); (S.H.)
| | - Andrea Affuso
- Department of Marine Animal Conservation and Public Engagement, Stazione Zoologica Anton Dohrn, Via Nuova Macello 16, 80055 Portici, Italy; (A.A.); (F.M.); (S.H.)
| | - Maria Oliviero
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Mezzogiorno, Via Salute 2, 80055 Portici, Italy; (M.O.); (D.I.); (G.P.); (G.F.); (E.D.C.); (F.D.N.)
| | - Doriana Iaccarino
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Mezzogiorno, Via Salute 2, 80055 Portici, Italy; (M.O.); (D.I.); (G.P.); (G.F.); (E.D.C.); (F.D.N.)
| | - Gianluigi Paduano
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Mezzogiorno, Via Salute 2, 80055 Portici, Italy; (M.O.); (D.I.); (G.P.); (G.F.); (E.D.C.); (F.D.N.)
| | - Fulvio Maffucci
- Department of Marine Animal Conservation and Public Engagement, Stazione Zoologica Anton Dohrn, Via Nuova Macello 16, 80055 Portici, Italy; (A.A.); (F.M.); (S.H.)
| | - Giovanna Fusco
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Mezzogiorno, Via Salute 2, 80055 Portici, Italy; (M.O.); (D.I.); (G.P.); (G.F.); (E.D.C.); (F.D.N.)
| | - Esterina De Carlo
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Mezzogiorno, Via Salute 2, 80055 Portici, Italy; (M.O.); (D.I.); (G.P.); (G.F.); (E.D.C.); (F.D.N.)
| | - Sandra Hochscheid
- Department of Marine Animal Conservation and Public Engagement, Stazione Zoologica Anton Dohrn, Via Nuova Macello 16, 80055 Portici, Italy; (A.A.); (F.M.); (S.H.)
| | - Fabio Di Nocera
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Mezzogiorno, Via Salute 2, 80055 Portici, Italy; (M.O.); (D.I.); (G.P.); (G.F.); (E.D.C.); (F.D.N.)
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Singh S, Aw TG, Rose JB. Evaluation of an Automated Ultrafiltration System for Concentrating a Range of Viruses from Saline Waters. FOOD AND ENVIRONMENTAL VIROLOGY 2024:10.1007/s12560-024-09602-6. [PMID: 38951381 DOI: 10.1007/s12560-024-09602-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2024] [Accepted: 04/30/2024] [Indexed: 07/03/2024]
Abstract
Pathogenic viruses in environmental water are usually present in levels too low for direct detection and thus, a concentration step is often required to increase the analytical sensitivity. The objective of this study was to evaluate an automated filtration device, the Innovaprep Concentrating Pipette Select (CP Select) for the rapid concentration of viruses in saline water samples, while considering duration of process and ease of use. Four bacteriophages (MS2, P22, Phi6, and PhiX174) and three animal viruses (adenovirus, coronavirus OC43, and canine distemper virus) were seeded in artificial seawater, aquarium water, and bay water samples, and processed using the CP Select. The recovery efficiencies of viruses were determined either using a plaque assay or droplet digital PCR (ddPCR). Using plaque assays, the average recovery efficiencies for bacteriophages ranged from 4.84 ± 3.8% to 82.73 ± 27.3%, with highest recovery for P22 phage. The average recovery efficiencies for the CP Select were 39.31 ± 26.6% for adenovirus, 19.04 ± 11.6% for coronavirus OC43, and 19.84 ± 13.6% for canine distemper virus, as determined by ddPCR. Overall, viral genome composition, not the size of the virus, affected the recovery efficiencies for the CP Select. The small sample volume size used for the ultrafilter pipette of the system hinders the use of this method as a primary concentration step for viruses in marine waters. However, the ease of use and rapid processing time of the CP Select are especially beneficial when rapid detection of viruses in highly contaminated water, such as wastewater or sewage-polluted surface water, is needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simran Singh
- Department of Fisheries and Wildlife, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA
| | - Tiong Gim Aw
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine, Tulane University, 1440 Canal Street, Suite 2100, New Orleans, LA, 70112, USA.
| | - Joan B Rose
- Department of Fisheries and Wildlife, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA
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Sacco RE, Jensen ED, Sullivan YB, LaBresh J, Davis WC. An update on the development of a bottlenose dolphin, Tursiops truncatus, immune reagent toolkit. Vet Immunol Immunopathol 2024; 272:110769. [PMID: 38703558 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetimm.2024.110769] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2024] [Revised: 04/24/2024] [Accepted: 04/25/2024] [Indexed: 05/06/2024]
Abstract
There are extensive immunological reagents available for laboratory rodents and humans. However, for veterinary species there is a need for expansion of immunological toolkits, with this especially evident for marine mammals, such as cetaceans. In addition to their use in a research setting, immune assays could be employed to monitor the health status of cetaceans and serve as an adjunct to available diagnostic tests. Such development of specific and sensitive immune assays will enhance the proper care and stewardship of wild and managed cetacean populations. Our goal is to provide immune reagents and immune assays for the research community, clinicians, and others involved in care of bottlenose dolphins. This review will provide an update on our development of a bottlenose dolphin immunological toolkit. The future availability and continued development of these reagents is critical for improving wild and managed bottlenose dolphin population health through enhanced assessment of their responses to alterations in the marine environment, including pathogens, and improve our ability to monitor their status following vaccination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Randy E Sacco
- National Animal Disease Center, USDA/ARS, Ames, IA, USA.
| | - Eric D Jensen
- US Navy Marine Mammal Program, Naval Information Warfare Center Pacific, San Diego, CA, USA
| | | | | | - William C Davis
- Department of Veterinary Microbiology and Pathology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, USA
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Herzog I, Wohlsein P, Preuss A, Gorb SN, Pigeault R, Ewers C, Prenger-Berninghoff E, Siebert U, Lehnert K. Heartworm and seal louse: Trends in prevalence, characterisation of impact and transmission pathways in a unique parasite assembly on seals in the North and Baltic Sea. Int J Parasitol Parasites Wildl 2024; 23:100898. [PMID: 38283886 PMCID: PMC10818207 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijppaw.2023.100898] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2023] [Revised: 11/29/2023] [Accepted: 12/18/2023] [Indexed: 01/30/2024]
Abstract
The ectoparasitic seal louse, Echinophthirius horridus infects harbour (Phoca vitulina) and grey seals (Halichoerus grypus) in the North and Baltic Sea. The endoparasitic heartworm Acanthocheilonema spirocauda parasitizes the right heart and blood vessels of harbour seals. The complete lifecycle of the heartworm is not entirely understood although the seal louse is assumed to serve as vector for its transmission. Knowledge about the impact of both parasite species on host health are scarce. In this study, necropsy data and archived parasites of harbour and grey seals in German waters were analysed to determine long-term seal louse (SLP) and heartworm prevalence (HWP) from 2014 to 2021. Histology, microbiology and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) were applied on seal louse infected and uninfected skin to investigate associated lesions and the health impact. During the study period, HWP in harbour seals was 13%, the SLP in harbour seals was 4% and in grey seals 10%. HWP of harbour seals was significantly higher during the winter months compared to the summer. SLP in adults was significantly higher in comparison to juvenile harbour seals. SLP varied significantly between grey seals from the North and Baltic Sea. Filarial nematodes were detected in the haemocoel, pharynx, and intestine of E. horridus highlighting the seal louse as vector for heartworms. Alopecia and folliculitis were associated with the attachment posture of E. horridus and microbiological investigations isolated bacteria commonly associated with folliculitis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Insa Herzog
- Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife Research, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Werftstraße 6, 25761, Büsum, Germany
| | - Peter Wohlsein
- Department of Pathology, University of Veterinary Medicine, Bünteweg 2, 30559, Hannover, Germany
| | - Anika Preuss
- Department of Functional Morphology and Biomechanics, Zoological Institute of the University of Kiel, Am Botanischen Garten 1–9, 24118, Kiel, Germany
| | - Stanislav N. Gorb
- Department of Functional Morphology and Biomechanics, Zoological Institute of the University of Kiel, Am Botanischen Garten 1–9, 24118, Kiel, Germany
| | - Rémi Pigeault
- Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife Research, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Werftstraße 6, 25761, Büsum, Germany
| | - Christa Ewers
- Institute of Hygiene and Infectious Diseases of Animals, Justus Liebig University Giessen, 35392, Giessen, Germany
| | - Ellen Prenger-Berninghoff
- Department of Functional Morphology and Biomechanics, Zoological Institute of the University of Kiel, Am Botanischen Garten 1–9, 24118, Kiel, Germany
| | - Ursula Siebert
- Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife Research, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Werftstraße 6, 25761, Büsum, Germany
| | - Kristina Lehnert
- Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife Research, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Werftstraße 6, 25761, Büsum, Germany
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ATTIA EL HILI H, MAATOUK K. [Zoonotic potential of brucellosis in marine mammals]. MEDECINE TROPICALE ET SANTE INTERNATIONALE 2024; 4:mtsi.v4i1.2024.489. [PMID: 38846127 PMCID: PMC11151931 DOI: 10.48327/mtsi.v4i1.2024.489] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2023] [Accepted: 11/15/2023] [Indexed: 06/09/2024]
Abstract
Introduction Brucellosis in marine mammals (cetacean and pinnipeds) has emerged in a very significant way during the last two decades. Currently Brucella ceti and Brucella pinnipedialis are the two recognized species in marine mammals, but available information is still limited. Several genotypes have been identified, and studies on the relationship between sequence type (ST) and organ pathogenicity or tropism have indicated differences in pathogenesis between B. ceti sequences in cetaceans. The zoonotic potential of this disease is based on the identification of the main sources of introduction and spread of Brucella spp. in the marine environment as well as on the factors of exposure of marine mammals and humans to the bacteria. Bibliographic review This article is a bibliographical review on marine mammal brucellosis, including the features, sources and transmission modes of each Brucella species, as well as their potential pathogenicity in animals and humans. Conclusion Different genotypes of marine Brucella spp have been isolated from marine mammal species but without any evidence of pathology induced by these bacteria. Associated lesions are variable and include subcutaneous abscesses, meningo-encephalomyelitis, pneumonia, myocarditis, osteoarthritis, orchitis, endometritis, placentitis and abortion. The isolation of marine B. spp from marine mammal respiratory parasites associated to lung injury has raised the intriguing possibility that they may serve as a vector for the transmission of this bacterium.The severity of marine B. spp remains unknown due to the lack of an estimate of the prevalence of this disease in marine mammals. The number of suspected human cases is still very limited. However, by analogy with other germs of the genus Brucella responsible for abortion in ruminants and for a febrile and painful state in human beings, prevention measures are essential. The significant increase in the number of strandings coupled with a high seroprevalence in certain species of marine mammals must be considered for people in direct or indirect contact with these animals. Ongoing epidemiological monitoring combined with extensive post-mortem examinations (necropsy, bacteriology and sequencing) of all species of stranded marine mammals would deepen knowledge on the zoonotic potential of marine Brucella species.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Kaouthar MAATOUK
- Institut national des sciences et technologies de la mer, Monastir, Tunisie
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Kang N, Kim EA, Heo SY, Heo SJ. Structure-Based In Silico Screening of Marine Phlorotannins for Potential Walrus Calicivirus Inhibitor. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:15774. [PMID: 37958757 PMCID: PMC10647355 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242115774] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2023] [Revised: 10/26/2023] [Accepted: 10/27/2023] [Indexed: 11/15/2023] Open
Abstract
A new calicivirus isolated from a walrus was reported in 2004. Since unknown marine mammalian zoonotic viruses could pose great risks to human health, this study aimed to develop therapeutic countermeasures to quell any potential outbreak of a pandemic caused by this virus. We first generated a 3D model of the walrus calicivirus capsid protein and identified compounds from marine natural products, especially phlorotannins, as potential walrus calicivirus inhibitors. A 3D model of the target protein was generated using homology modeling based on two publicly available template sequences. The sequence of the capsid protein exhibited 31.3% identity and 42.7% similarity with the reference templates. The accuracy and reliability of the predicted residues were validated via Ramachandran plotting. Molecular docking simulations were performed between the capsid protein 3D model and 17 phlorotannins. Among them, five phlorotannins demonstrated markedly stable docking profiles; in particular, 2,7-phloroglucinol-6,6-bieckol showed favorable structural integrity and stability during molecular dynamics simulations. The results indicate that the phlorotannins are promising walrus calicivirus inhibitors. Overall, the study findings showcase the rapid turnaround of in silico-based drug discovery approaches, providing useful insights for developing potential therapies against novel pathogenic viruses, especially when the 3D structures of the viruses remain experimentally unknown.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Soo-Jin Heo
- Jeju Bio Research Center, Korea Institute of Ocean Science and Technology (KIOST), Jeju 63349, Republic of Korea; (N.K.); (E.-A.K.); (S.-Y.H.)
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Sakyi ME, Kamio T, Kohyama K, Rahman MM, Shimizu K, Okada A, Inoshima Y. Assessing of the use of proteins A, G, and chimeric protein AG to detect marine mammal immunoglobulins. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0291743. [PMID: 37733771 PMCID: PMC10513184 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0291743] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2023] [Accepted: 09/05/2023] [Indexed: 09/23/2023] Open
Abstract
In recent years, there has been an increase in infectious diseases in marine mammals, including brucellosis, infections of morbillivirus, herpesvirus, and poxvirus. Several serological diagnostic methods, including enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays, immunofluorescence assays (ELISA), and western blotting, have been used to detect antibodies against pathogens in marine mammals. However, options for commercial secondary antibodies used to detect antibodies in marine mammals are limited; therefore, the use of proteins A, G, or chimeric protein AG may provide a suitable alternative. This study aimed to assess the use of proteins A, G, and chimeric protein AG to detect marine mammal immunoglobulins. Currently, there are no comparative studies on the use of proteins A, G, and chimeric protein AG for the detection of immunoglobulins in marine mammals. In this study, we used ten pinnipeds' species (Baikal seal, California sea lion, harbor seal, northern fur seal, ringed seal, South American fur seal, South American sea lion, spotted seal, Steller sea lion, and walrus) and five cetacean species (beluga whale, bottlenose dolphin, harbor porpoise, killer whale, and Pacific white-sided dolphin) and compare binding ability to proteins A, G, or chimeric protein AG by ELISA. The results revealed that the immunoglobulins from pinniped and cetacean species reacted more strongly to protein A than protein G. In addition, the immunoglobulins of pinnipeds and cetaceans showed a strong binding ability to chimeric protein AG. These results suggest that proteins A, G, and chimeric protein AG would be used to help further develop serological assays.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Essien Sakyi
- Cooperative Department of Veterinary Medicine, Laboratory of Food and Environmental Hygiene, Gifu University, Gifu, Japan
- Joint Graduate School of Veterinary Sciences, Gifu University, Gifu, Japan
| | - Takashi Kamio
- Cooperative Department of Veterinary Medicine, Laboratory of Food and Environmental Hygiene, Gifu University, Gifu, Japan
- Joint Graduate School of Veterinary Sciences, Gifu University, Gifu, Japan
- Port of Nagoya Public Aquarium, Nagoya, Aichi, Japan
| | | | - Md. Matiur Rahman
- Cooperative Department of Veterinary Medicine, Laboratory of Food and Environmental Hygiene, Gifu University, Gifu, Japan
- Faculty for Veterinary, Department of Medicine, Animal and Biomedical Sciences, Sylhet Agricultural University, Sylhet, Bangladesh
| | - Kaori Shimizu
- Cooperative Department of Veterinary Medicine, Laboratory of Food and Environmental Hygiene, Gifu University, Gifu, Japan
| | - Ayaka Okada
- Cooperative Department of Veterinary Medicine, Laboratory of Food and Environmental Hygiene, Gifu University, Gifu, Japan
- Education and Research Center for Food Animal Health, Gifu University (GeFAH), Gifu, Japan
| | - Yasuo Inoshima
- Cooperative Department of Veterinary Medicine, Laboratory of Food and Environmental Hygiene, Gifu University, Gifu, Japan
- Joint Graduate School of Veterinary Sciences, Gifu University, Gifu, Japan
- Education and Research Center for Food Animal Health, Gifu University (GeFAH), Gifu, Japan
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Li Y, Xiao M, Zhang Y, Li Z, Bai S, Su H, Peng R, Wang G, Hu X, Song X, Li X, Tang C, Lu G, Yin F, Zhang P, Du J. Identification of two novel papillomaviruses in belugas. Front Microbiol 2023; 14:1165839. [PMID: 37564289 PMCID: PMC10411887 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2023.1165839] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2023] [Accepted: 07/03/2023] [Indexed: 08/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Papillomaviruses (PVs) can cause hyperplasia in the skin and mucous membranes of humans, mammals, and non-mammalian animals, and are a significant risk factor for cervical and genital cancers. Methods Using next-generation sequencing (NGS), we identified two novel strains of papillomavirus, PV-HMU-1 and PV-HMU-2, in swabs taken from belugas (Delphinapterus leucas) at Polar Ocean Parks in Qingdao and Dalian. Results We amplified the complete genomes of both strains and screened ten belugas and one false killer whale (Pseudorca crassidens) for the late gene (L1) to determine the infection rate. In Qingdao, 50% of the two sampled belugas were infected with PV-HMU-1, while the false killer whale was negative. In Dalian, 71% of the eight sampled belugas were infected with PV-HMU-2. In their L1 genes, PV-HMU-1 and PV-HMU-2 showed 64.99 and 68.12% amino acid identity, respectively, with other members of Papillomaviridae. Phylogenetic analysis of combinatorial amino acid sequences revealed that PV-HMU-1 and PV-HMU-2 clustered with other known dolphin PVs but formed distinct branches. PVs carried by belugas were proposed as novel species under Firstpapillomavirinae. Conclusion The discovery of these two novel PVs enhances our understanding of the genetic diversity of papillomaviruses and their impact on the beluga population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Youyou Li
- Hainan Medical University-The University of Hong Kong Joint Laboratory of Tropical Infectious Diseases, Key Laboratory of Tropical Translational Medicine of Ministry of Education, Hainan Medical University, Haikou, China
| | - Meifang Xiao
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Center for Laboratory Medicine, Hainan Women and Children’s Medical Center, Haikou, China
| | - Yun Zhang
- Hainan Medical University-The University of Hong Kong Joint Laboratory of Tropical Infectious Diseases, Key Laboratory of Tropical Translational Medicine of Ministry of Education, Hainan Medical University, Haikou, China
| | - Zihan Li
- Hainan Medical University-The University of Hong Kong Joint Laboratory of Tropical Infectious Diseases, Key Laboratory of Tropical Translational Medicine of Ministry of Education, Hainan Medical University, Haikou, China
| | - Shijie Bai
- Marine Mammal and Marine Bioacoustics Laboratory, Laboratory of Marine Viruses and Molecular Biology, Institute of Deep-sea Science and Engineering, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Sanya, China
| | - Haoxiang Su
- National Health Commission, Key Laboratory of Systems Biology of Pathogens, Institute of Pathogen Biology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Ruoyan Peng
- Hainan Medical University-The University of Hong Kong Joint Laboratory of Tropical Infectious Diseases, Key Laboratory of Tropical Translational Medicine of Ministry of Education, Hainan Medical University, Haikou, China
| | - Gaoyu Wang
- Hainan Medical University-The University of Hong Kong Joint Laboratory of Tropical Infectious Diseases, Key Laboratory of Tropical Translational Medicine of Ministry of Education, Hainan Medical University, Haikou, China
| | - Xiaoyuan Hu
- Hainan Medical University-The University of Hong Kong Joint Laboratory of Tropical Infectious Diseases, Key Laboratory of Tropical Translational Medicine of Ministry of Education, Hainan Medical University, Haikou, China
| | - Xinran Song
- Dalian Sun Asia Tourism Holding Co., Ltd., Dalian, China
| | - Xin Li
- Qingdao Polar Haichang Ocean Park, Qingdao, China
| | - Chuanning Tang
- Hainan Medical University-The University of Hong Kong Joint Laboratory of Tropical Infectious Diseases, Key Laboratory of Tropical Translational Medicine of Ministry of Education, Hainan Medical University, Haikou, China
| | - Gang Lu
- Hainan Medical University-The University of Hong Kong Joint Laboratory of Tropical Infectious Diseases, Key Laboratory of Tropical Translational Medicine of Ministry of Education, Hainan Medical University, Haikou, China
| | - Feifei Yin
- Hainan Medical University-The University of Hong Kong Joint Laboratory of Tropical Infectious Diseases, Key Laboratory of Tropical Translational Medicine of Ministry of Education, Hainan Medical University, Haikou, China
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Center for Laboratory Medicine, Hainan Women and Children’s Medical Center, Haikou, China
| | - Peijun Zhang
- Marine Mammal and Marine Bioacoustics Laboratory, Laboratory of Marine Viruses and Molecular Biology, Institute of Deep-sea Science and Engineering, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Sanya, China
| | - Jiang Du
- Hainan Medical University-The University of Hong Kong Joint Laboratory of Tropical Infectious Diseases, Key Laboratory of Tropical Translational Medicine of Ministry of Education, Hainan Medical University, Haikou, China
- National Health Commission, Key Laboratory of Systems Biology of Pathogens, Institute of Pathogen Biology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
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Balmer BC, Westgate AJ, McFee WE. Challenges in small cetacean telemetry: an attempt at developing a remotely deployed attachment device for single-pin dorsal fin satellite transmitters. ANIMAL BIOTELEMETRY 2023; 11:15. [PMID: 37033744 PMCID: PMC10064944 DOI: 10.1186/s40317-023-00328-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2023] [Accepted: 03/22/2023] [Indexed: 06/19/2023]
Abstract
Satellite telemetry is critical for collecting fine-scale temporal and spatial data on individual animals that has broad-scale applicability at population and species levels. There have been significant advances in the remote deployment of satellite telemetry devices on large cetacean species. However, the development of comparable remote attachment methodologies for small cetaceans is still limited. Currently, satellite tag attachment for small cetaceans requires manual capture that increases the risk to the target animal, can be logistically challenging, and cost prohibitive. The goal of this project was to develop a novel tool to remotely attach single-pin satellite telemetry devices to the dorsal fin of individual small cetaceans. Three different spring-loaded designs and one pneumatic version of the remote attachment device were built in an iterative process to identify a successful deployment methodology. Ultimately, as a result of logistical challenges associated with a Category 5 hurricane, the COVID-19 pandemic, and engineering complexities related to dorsal fin morphology and small cetacean behavior, the objective of this project was not met. However, lessons learned from these attempts to develop this new sampling tool have applicability for future researchers in the successful completion of a safe and effective methodology for remote attachment of satellite tags to small cetacean dorsal fins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brian C. Balmer
- Dolphin Relief and Research, 6 Antelope Way, Clancy, MT 59634 USA
| | - Andrew J. Westgate
- Department of Biology and Marine Biology, University of North Carolina Wilmington, 601 South College Road, Wilmington, NC 28403 USA
| | - Wayne E. McFee
- National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, National Centers for Coastal Ocean Science, 331 Fort Johnson Road, Charleston, SC 29412 USA
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Detection of human pathogenic bacteria in rectal DNA samples from Zalophus californianus in the Gulf of California, Mexico. Sci Rep 2022; 12:14859. [PMID: 36050340 PMCID: PMC9434536 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-18903-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2022] [Accepted: 08/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Human intrusions into undisturbed wildlife areas greatly contribute to the emergence of infectious diseases. To minimize the impacts of novel emerging infectious diseases (EIDs) on human health, a comprehensive understanding of the microbial species that reside within wildlife species is required. The Gulf of California (GoC) is an example of an undisturbed ecosystem. However, in recent decades, anthropogenic activities within the GoC have increased. Zalophus californianus has been proposed as the main sentinel species in the GoC; hence, an assessment of sea lion bacterial microbiota may reveal hidden risks for human health. We evaluated the presence of potential human pathogenic bacterial species from the gastrointestinal (GI) tracts of wild sea lions through a metabarcoding approach. To comprehensively evaluate this bacterial consortium, we considered the genetic information of six hypervariable regions of 16S rRNA. Potential human pathogenic bacteria were identified down to the species level by integrating the RDP and Pplacer classifier outputs. The combined genetic information from all analyzed regions suggests the presence of at least 44 human pathogenic bacterial species, including Shigella dysenteriae and Bacillus anthracis. Therefore, the risks of EIDs from this area should be not underestimated.
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11
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Evaluating Potential Cetacean Welfare Indicators from Video of Live Stranded Long-Finned Pilot Whales ( Globicephala melas edwardii). Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:ani12141861. [PMID: 35883407 PMCID: PMC9312325 DOI: 10.3390/ani12141861] [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: 06/21/2022] [Revised: 07/16/2022] [Accepted: 07/18/2022] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite the known benefit of considering welfare within wildlife conservation and management, there remains a lack of data to inform such evaluations. To assess animal welfare, relevant information must be captured scientifically and systematically. A key first step is identifying potential indicators of welfare and the practicality of their measurement. We assessed the feasibility of evaluating potential welfare indicators from opportunistically gathered video footage of four stranded odontocete species (n = 53) at 14 stranding events around New Zealand. The first stranded cetacean ethogram was compiled, including 30 different behaviours, 20 of which were observed in all four species. Additionally, thirteen types of human intervention were classified. A subset of 49 live stranded long-finned pilot whales (Globicephala melas edwardii) were assessed to determine indicator prevalence and to quantify behaviours. Four ‘welfare status’ and six ‘welfare alerting’ non-behavioural indicators could be consistently evaluated from the footage. Additionally, two composite behavioural indicators were feasible. Three human intervention types (present, watering, and touching) and five animal behaviours (tail flutter, dorsal fin flutter, head lift, tail lift, and head side-to-side) were prevalent (>40% of individuals). Our study highlights the potential for non-invasive, remote assessments via video footage and represents an initial step towards developing a systematic, holistic welfare assessment framework for stranded cetaceans.
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12
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Katz H, Schelotto F, Bakker D, Castro-Ramos M, Gutiérrez-Expósito D, Panzera Y, Pérez R, Franco-Trecu V, Hernández E, Menéndez C, Meny P. Survey of selected pathogens in free-ranging pinnipeds in Uruguay. DISEASES OF AQUATIC ORGANISMS 2022; 150:69-83. [PMID: 35833546 DOI: 10.3354/dao03676] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Marine mammals, regarded as sentinels of aquatic ecosystem health, are exposed to different pathogens and parasites under natural conditions. We surveyed live South American fur seals Arctocephalus australis and South American sea lions Otaria flavescens in Uruguay for Leptospira spp., canine distemper virus (CDV), Mycobacterium spp., Toxoplasma gondii, and Neospora caninum. Samples were collected from 2007 to 2013. The seroprevalence of Leptospira spp. was 37.6% positive, 50.9% negative, and 11.5% suspect for A. australis (n = 61) while for O. flavescens (n = 12) it was 67% positive, 25% negative, and 8% suspect. CDV RNA was not detected in any of the analyzed samples. Most animals tested seropositive to tuberculosis antigens by WiZo ELISA (A. australis: 29/30; O. flavescens: 20/20); reactivity varied with a novel ELISA test (antigens MPB70, MPB83, ESAT6 and MPB59). Seroprevalence against N. caninum and T. gondii was 6.7 and 13.3% positive for O. flavescens and 0 and 2.2% positive for A. australis respectively. To evaluate possible sources of infection for pinnipeds, wild rats Rattus rattus and semi-feral cats Felis catus were also tested for Leptospira spp. and T. gondii respectively. Water samples tested for Leptospira revealed saprofitic L. bioflexa. Pathogenic Leptospira were detected in the kidneys of 2 rats, and cats tested positive for T. gondii (100%). These results represent a substantial contribution to the study of the health status of wild pinnipeds in Uruguay.
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Affiliation(s)
- H Katz
- Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de la República (UdelaR), 11600 Montevideo, Uruguay
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13
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Rodrigues TC, Santos AL, Pinheiro ES, Piatti RM, Castro V, Buiatte AB, Lima AM, Marmontel M. Survey for Leptospira and Brucella in Amazonian manatees, Amazon river dolphins, and a tucuxi in the Brazilian Amazon. DISEASES OF AQUATIC ORGANISMS 2022; 150:17-29. [PMID: 35796508 DOI: 10.3354/dao03667] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Leptospirosis and brucellosis are zoonotic diseases with global distributions that represent severe hazards to humans and animals. We investigated exposure to Leptospira spp. and Brucella spp. in samples from Amazonian manatees Trichechus inunguis, Amazon river dolphins Inia geoffrensis, and a tucuxi Sotalia fluviatilis. The animals were free-ranging or undergoing in situ rehabilitation in the mid-Solimões River region, Brazilian Amazon. Serum samples from 19 Amazonian manatees were tested by microscopic agglutination test, Rose Bengal test, and 2-mercaptoethanol Brucella agglutination test. Antibodies against Leptospira spp. were detected in 63% of the manatees tested and serovar Patoc was considered the infecting serovar in all positive samples. Titers were generally low, indicating chronic exposure, but higher titers indicative of an active infection were detected in 3 animals. Anti-Brucella spp. antibodies were not detected. Tissue and/or body fluid samples from 12 Amazon river dolphins, a tucuxi, and 2 Amazonian manatees were investigated by multiplex PCR and bacteriology for Leptospira spp. and Brucella spp. All samples were negative. However, Enterococcus faecalis was isolated from uterine fluid, lymph node, and lung of 3 Amazon river dolphins. Bacillus spp. were isolated from milk and synovial fluid from 2 Amazon river dolphins and from a milk sample from 1 Amazonian manatee. Knowledge of the pathogens present in Amazonian manatees, Amazon river dolphins, and tucuxis is of great relevance to species conservation and environmental health. Although no clinical signs were noted, further research is needed to elucidate the clinical relevance of infection by Leptospira sp. serovar Patoc in Amazonian aquatic mammals.
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14
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Basili M, Techtmann SM, Zaggia L, Luna GM, Quero GM. Partitioning and sources of microbial pollution in the Venice Lagoon. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2022; 818:151755. [PMID: 34848267 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2021.151755] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2021] [Revised: 10/25/2021] [Accepted: 11/13/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Microbial pollutants are a serious threat to human and environmental health in coastal areas. Based on the hypothesis that pollution from multiple sources may produce a distinct microbial signature and that microbial pollutants seem to distribute between a free-living and a particle-attached fraction, we investigated the occurrence, partitioning and sources of microbial pollutants in water samples collected in the Venice Lagoon (Italy). The area was taken as a case study of an environment characterized by a long history of industrial pollution and by growing human pressure. We found a variety of pollutants from several sources, with sewage-associated and faecal bacteria accounting for up to 5.98% of microbial communities. Sewage-associated pollutants were most abundant close to the city centre. Faecal pollution was highest in the area of the industrial port and was dominated by human inputs, whereas contamination from animal faeces was mainly detected at the interface with the mainland. Microbial pollutants were almost exclusively associated with the particle-attached fraction. The samples also contained other potential pathogens. Our findings stress the need for monitoring and managing microbial pollution in highly urbanized lagoon and semi-enclosed systems and suggest that management plans to reduce microbial inputs to the waterways should include measures to reduce particulate matter inputs to the lagoon. Finally, High-Throughput Sequencing combined with computational approaches proved critical to assess water quality and appears to be a valuable tool to support the monitoring of waterborne diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Basili
- CNR IRBIM, National Research Council - Institute of Marine Biological Resources and Biotechnologies, Largo Fiera della Pesca, 60125 Ancona, Italy
| | - Stephen M Techtmann
- Department of Biological Sciences, Michigan Technological University, Houghton, MI, United States
| | - Luca Zaggia
- CNR IGG, National Research Council - Institute of Geosciences and Earth Resources, Via G. Gradenigo 6, 35131 Padova, Italy
| | - Gian Marco Luna
- CNR IRBIM, National Research Council - Institute of Marine Biological Resources and Biotechnologies, Largo Fiera della Pesca, 60125 Ancona, Italy
| | - Grazia Marina Quero
- CNR IRBIM, National Research Council - Institute of Marine Biological Resources and Biotechnologies, Largo Fiera della Pesca, 60125 Ancona, Italy.
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15
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Komnenou AT, Gkafas GA, Kofidou E, Sarantopoulou J, Exadactylos A, Tounta E, Koemtzopoulos K, Dendrinos P, Karamanlidis AA, Gulland F, Papadopoulos E. First Report of Uncinaria hamiltoni in Orphan Eastern Mediterranean Monk Seal Pups in Greece and Its Clinical Significance. Pathogens 2021; 10:pathogens10121581. [PMID: 34959536 PMCID: PMC8708642 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens10121581] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2021] [Revised: 11/29/2021] [Accepted: 12/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The Mediterranean monk seal (Monachus monachus) is classified by the IUCN as “endangered,” with a global population estimated to number fewer than 800 individuals. Our understanding of the biology and health status of the species is still limited, rendering every medical case a challenge for conservationists and veterinary clinicians. Although studying and managing disease in wild marine hosts is complex and challenging, studying and mitigating the effects of any disease to the Mediterranean monk seal is of utmost importance for conservation. The aim of this study was to document for the first time the presence of the hookworm Uncinaria hamiltoni in rehabilitated Mediterranean monk seal pups in Greece. A detailed examination protocol was followed for all pups that live-stranded over 30 years in 22 different locations, including physical, parasitological, and other examinations. Hookworms (adults and/or eggs) were detected in all the fecal samples, from all animals. Molecular identification using MtDNA (COI) and ribosomal DNA (D2/D3 28S and internal transcribed spacer [ITS] regions) identified the nematode species as Uncinaria hamiltoni. The clinical impacts and the benefits of anthelmintic treatment as a tool for the conservation management of the species are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anastasia Th. Komnenou
- School of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54627 Thessaloniki, Greece; (A.T.K.); (E.K.)
- MOm/Hellenic Society for the Study and Protection of the Monk Seal, 10682 Athens, Greece; (E.T.); (K.K.); (P.D.); (A.A.K.)
| | - George A. Gkafas
- Department of Ichthyology and Aquatic Environment, School of Agricultural Sciences, University of Thessaly, 38446 Volos, Greece; (G.A.G.); (J.S.); (A.E.)
| | - Evangelia Kofidou
- School of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54627 Thessaloniki, Greece; (A.T.K.); (E.K.)
| | - Joanne Sarantopoulou
- Department of Ichthyology and Aquatic Environment, School of Agricultural Sciences, University of Thessaly, 38446 Volos, Greece; (G.A.G.); (J.S.); (A.E.)
| | - Athanasios Exadactylos
- Department of Ichthyology and Aquatic Environment, School of Agricultural Sciences, University of Thessaly, 38446 Volos, Greece; (G.A.G.); (J.S.); (A.E.)
| | - Eleni Tounta
- MOm/Hellenic Society for the Study and Protection of the Monk Seal, 10682 Athens, Greece; (E.T.); (K.K.); (P.D.); (A.A.K.)
| | - Kimon Koemtzopoulos
- MOm/Hellenic Society for the Study and Protection of the Monk Seal, 10682 Athens, Greece; (E.T.); (K.K.); (P.D.); (A.A.K.)
| | - Panagiotis Dendrinos
- MOm/Hellenic Society for the Study and Protection of the Monk Seal, 10682 Athens, Greece; (E.T.); (K.K.); (P.D.); (A.A.K.)
| | - Alexandros A. Karamanlidis
- MOm/Hellenic Society for the Study and Protection of the Monk Seal, 10682 Athens, Greece; (E.T.); (K.K.); (P.D.); (A.A.K.)
| | - Frances Gulland
- Karen C. Drayer Wildlife Heath Center, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, CA 95616, USA;
- Marine Mammal Commission, Bethesda, MD 20814, USA
| | - Elias Papadopoulos
- School of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54627 Thessaloniki, Greece; (A.T.K.); (E.K.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +30-6944882872
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16
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Petrovan SO, Aldridge DC, Bartlett H, Bladon AJ, Booth H, Broad S, Broom DM, Burgess ND, Cleaveland S, Cunningham AA, Ferri M, Hinsley A, Hua F, Hughes AC, Jones K, Kelly M, Mayes G, Radakovic M, Ugwu CA, Uddin N, Veríssimo D, Walzer C, White TB, Wood JL, Sutherland WJ. Post COVID-19: a solution scan of options for preventing future zoonotic epidemics. Biol Rev Camb Philos Soc 2021. [PMID: 34231315 DOI: 10.17605/osf.io/5jx3g] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/21/2023]
Abstract
The crisis generated by the emergence and pandemic spread of COVID-19 has thrown into the global spotlight the dangers associated with novel diseases, as well as the key role of animals, especially wild animals, as potential sources of pathogens to humans. There is a widespread demand for a new relationship with wild and domestic animals, including suggested bans on hunting, wildlife trade, wet markets or consumption of wild animals. However, such policies risk ignoring essential elements of the problem as well as alienating and increasing hardship for local communities across the world, and might be unachievable at scale. There is thus a need for a more complex package of policy and practical responses. We undertook a solution scan to identify and collate 161 possible options for reducing the risks of further epidemic disease transmission from animals to humans, including potential further SARS-CoV-2 transmission (original or variants). We include all categories of animals in our responses (i.e. wildlife, captive, unmanaged/feral and domestic livestock and pets) and focus on pathogens (especially viruses) that, once transmitted from animals to humans, could acquire epidemic potential through high rates of human-to-human transmission. This excludes measures to prevent well-known zoonotic diseases, such as rabies, that cannot readily transmit between humans. We focused solutions on societal measures, excluding the development of vaccines and other preventive therapeutic medicine and veterinary medicine options that are discussed elsewhere. We derived our solutions through reading the scientific literature, NGO position papers, and industry guidelines, collating our own experiences, and consulting experts in different fields. Herein, we review the major zoonotic transmission pathways and present an extensive list of options. The potential solutions are organised according to the key stages of the trade chain and encompass solutions that can be applied at the local, regional and international scales. This is a set of options targeted at practitioners and policy makers to encourage careful examination of possible courses of action, validating their impact and documenting outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silviu O Petrovan
- BioRISC (Biosecurity Research Initiative at St Catharine's), St Catharine's College, Cambridge, CB2 1RL, U.K
- Department of Zoology, University of Cambridge, The David Attenborough Building, Pembroke Street, Cambridge, CB2 3QZ, U.K
| | - David C Aldridge
- BioRISC (Biosecurity Research Initiative at St Catharine's), St Catharine's College, Cambridge, CB2 1RL, U.K
- Department of Zoology, University of Cambridge, The David Attenborough Building, Pembroke Street, Cambridge, CB2 3QZ, U.K
| | - Harriet Bartlett
- Department of Zoology, University of Cambridge, The David Attenborough Building, Pembroke Street, Cambridge, CB2 3QZ, U.K
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Cambridge, Madingley Road, Cambridge, CB3 0ES, U.K
| | - Andrew J Bladon
- BioRISC (Biosecurity Research Initiative at St Catharine's), St Catharine's College, Cambridge, CB2 1RL, U.K
- Department of Zoology, University of Cambridge, The David Attenborough Building, Pembroke Street, Cambridge, CB2 3QZ, U.K
| | - Hollie Booth
- Interdisciplinary Centre for Conservation Science, Department of Zoology, University of Oxford, Oxford, OX1 3SZ, U.K
| | - Steven Broad
- TRAFFIC, The David Attenborough Building, Pembroke Street, Cambridge, CB2 3QZ, U.K
| | - Donald M Broom
- BioRISC (Biosecurity Research Initiative at St Catharine's), St Catharine's College, Cambridge, CB2 1RL, U.K
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Cambridge, Madingley Road, Cambridge, CB3 0ES, U.K
| | - Neil D Burgess
- UNEP-WCMC, 219 Huntington Road, Cambridge, CB3 0DL, U.K
- GLOBE Institute, University of Copenhagen, Oester Voldgade 5-7, Copenhagen, 1350, Denmark
| | - Sarah Cleaveland
- Institute of Biodiversity, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, Animal Health & Comparative Medicine, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, G12 8QQ, U.K
| | | | - Maurizio Ferri
- Italian Society of Preventive Veterinary Medicine (Simevep), Via Nizza 11, Rome, 00198, Italy
| | - Amy Hinsley
- Wildlife Conservation Research Unit, Department of Zoology, University of Oxford, Oxford, OX1 3SZ, U.K
| | - Fangyuan Hua
- Institute of Ecology, College of Urban and Environmental Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, P.R. China
| | - Alice C Hughes
- Centre for Integrative Conservation, Xishuangbanna Tropical Botanical Garden, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xishuangbanna, Yunnan, 666303, P.R. China
| | - Kate Jones
- Centre for Biodiversity and Environment Research, University College London, Gower Street, London, WC1E 6BT, U.K
| | - Moira Kelly
- Wildlife Health Ghent, Department of Pathology, Bacteriology and Poultry Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Salisburylaan 133, Merelbeke, B-9820, Belgium
| | - George Mayes
- MacArthur Barstow & Gibbs Veterinary Surgeons, 36 Hanbury Road, Droitwich, WR9 8PW, U.K
| | - Milorad Radakovic
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Cambridge, Madingley Road, Cambridge, CB3 0ES, U.K
| | - Chinedu A Ugwu
- Africa Centre of Excellence for Genomics of Infectious Disease, Redeemers' University Ede, Osun State, Nigeria
| | - Nasir Uddin
- Centre for Integrative Conservation, Xishuangbanna Tropical Botanical Garden, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xishuangbanna, Yunnan, 666303, P.R. China
| | - Diogo Veríssimo
- Interdisciplinary Centre for Conservation Science, Department of Zoology, University of Oxford, Oxford, OX1 3SZ, U.K
- Institute for Conservation Research, San Diego Zoo Global, Escondido, CA, 92027, U.S.A
| | - Christian Walzer
- Research Institute of Wildlife Ecology, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Savoyenstraße 1, Vienna, A-1160, Austria
- Wildlife Conservation Society, 2300 Southern Blvd., Bronx, NY, U.S.A
| | - Thomas B White
- Department of Zoology, University of Cambridge, The David Attenborough Building, Pembroke Street, Cambridge, CB2 3QZ, U.K
| | - James L Wood
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Cambridge, Madingley Road, Cambridge, CB3 0ES, U.K
| | - William J Sutherland
- BioRISC (Biosecurity Research Initiative at St Catharine's), St Catharine's College, Cambridge, CB2 1RL, U.K
- Department of Zoology, University of Cambridge, The David Attenborough Building, Pembroke Street, Cambridge, CB2 3QZ, U.K
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17
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Pang KL, Hassett BT, Shaumi A, Guo SY, Sakayaroj J, Chiang MWL, Yang CH, Jones EG. Pathogenic fungi of marine animals: A taxonomic perspective. FUNGAL BIOL REV 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fbr.2021.03.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
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18
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Teman SJ, Gaydos JK, Norman SA, Huggins JL, Lambourn DM, Calambokidis J, Ford JKB, Hanson MB, Haulena M, Zabek E, Cottrell P, Hoang L, Morshed M, Garner MM, Raverty S. Epizootiology of a Cryptococcus gattii outbreak in porpoises and dolphins from the Salish Sea. DISEASES OF AQUATIC ORGANISMS 2021; 146:129-143. [PMID: 34672263 DOI: 10.3354/dao03630] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Cryptococcus gattii is a fungal pathogen that primarily affects the respiratory and nervous systems of humans and other animals. C. gattii emerged in temperate North America in 1999 as a multispecies outbreak of cryptococcosis in British Columbia (Canada) and Washington State and Oregon (USA), affecting humans, domestic animals, and wildlife. Here we describe the C. gattii epizootic in odontocetes. Cases of C. gattii were identified in 42 odontocetes in Washington and British Columbia between 1997 and 2016. Species affected included harbor porpoises Phocoena phocoena (n = 26), Dall's porpoises Phocoenoides dalli (n = 14), and Pacific white-sided dolphins Lagenorhynchus obliquidens (n = 2). The probable index case was identified in an adult male Dall's porpoise in 1997, 2 yr prior to the initial terrestrial outbreak. The spatiotemporal extent of the C. gattii epizootic was defined, and cases in odontocetes were found to be clustered around terrestrial C. gattii hotspots. Case-control analyses with stranded, uninfected odontocetes revealed that risk factors for infection were species (Dall's porpoises), age class (adult animals), and season (winter). This study suggests that mycoses are an emerging source of mortality for odontocetes, and that outbreaks may be associated with anthropogenic environmental disturbance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah J Teman
- The SeaDoc Society, Karen C. Drayer Wildlife Health Center - Orcas Island Office, UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine, Eastsound, WA 98245, USA
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19
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Jenkins M, Ahmed S, Barnes AN. A systematic review of waterborne and water-related disease in animal populations of Florida from 1999-2019. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0255025. [PMID: 34324547 PMCID: PMC8321142 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0255025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2020] [Accepted: 07/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Florida's waters are a reservoir for a host of pathogens and toxins. Many of these microorganisms cause water-related diseases in people that are reportable to the Florida Department of Health. Our objective in this review was to ascertain which water-related pathogens and toxins of public health importance have been found in animal populations in Florida over the last twenty years. METHODS Nineteen databases were searched, including PubMed and Web of Science Core Collection, using keywords and search terms for the waterborne diseases, water-related vector-borne diseases, and water-based toxins reportable to the Florida Department of Health. For inclusion, peer-reviewed journal articles were to be written in English, published between January 1, 1999 and December 31, 2019, and contain primary research findings documenting at least one of the water-related pathogens or toxins of interest in an animal population within Florida during this same time frame. RESULTS Of over eight thousand initial search results, 65 studies were included for final analysis. The most common animal types implicated in the diseases of interest included marine mammals, fish and shellfish, wild birds, and livestock. Toxins or pathogens most often associated with these animals included toxin-producer Karenia brevis, vibriosis, Escherichia coli, and Salmonellosis. DISCUSSION/CONCLUSION Findings from this review elucidate the water-related disease-causing pathogens and toxins which have been reported within animal populations in recent Florida history. As most of these diseases are zoonotic, our results suggest a One Health approach is necessary to support and maintain healthy water systems throughout the state of Florida for the protection of both human and animal populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meg Jenkins
- Department of Public Health, University of North Florida, Jacksonville, Florida, United States of America
| | - Sabrina Ahmed
- Department of Public Health, University of North Florida, Jacksonville, Florida, United States of America
| | - Amber N. Barnes
- Department of Public Health, University of North Florida, Jacksonville, Florida, United States of America
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20
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Petrovan SO, Aldridge DC, Bartlett H, Bladon AJ, Booth H, Broad S, Broom DM, Burgess ND, Cleaveland S, Cunningham AA, Ferri M, Hinsley A, Hua F, Hughes AC, Jones K, Kelly M, Mayes G, Radakovic M, Ugwu CA, Uddin N, Veríssimo D, Walzer C, White TB, Wood JL, Sutherland WJ. Post COVID-19: a solution scan of options for preventing future zoonotic epidemics. Biol Rev Camb Philos Soc 2021; 96:2694-2715. [PMID: 34231315 PMCID: PMC8444924 DOI: 10.1111/brv.12774] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2020] [Revised: 06/20/2021] [Accepted: 06/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
The crisis generated by the emergence and pandemic spread of COVID-19 has thrown into the global spotlight the dangers associated with novel diseases, as well as the key role of animals, especially wild animals, as potential sources of pathogens to humans. There is a widespread demand for a new relationship with wild and domestic animals, including suggested bans on hunting, wildlife trade, wet markets or consumption of wild animals. However, such policies risk ignoring essential elements of the problem as well as alienating and increasing hardship for local communities across the world, and might be unachievable at scale. There is thus a need for a more complex package of policy and practical responses. We undertook a solution scan to identify and collate 161 possible options for reducing the risks of further epidemic disease transmission from animals to humans, including potential further SARS-CoV-2 transmission (original or variants). We include all categories of animals in our responses (i.e. wildlife, captive, unmanaged/feral and domestic livestock and pets) and focus on pathogens (especially viruses) that, once transmitted from animals to humans, could acquire epidemic potential through high rates of human-to-human transmission. This excludes measures to prevent well-known zoonotic diseases, such as rabies, that cannot readily transmit between humans. We focused solutions on societal measures, excluding the development of vaccines and other preventive therapeutic medicine and veterinary medicine options that are discussed elsewhere. We derived our solutions through reading the scientific literature, NGO position papers, and industry guidelines, collating our own experiences, and consulting experts in different fields. Herein, we review the major zoonotic transmission pathways and present an extensive list of options. The potential solutions are organised according to the key stages of the trade chain and encompass solutions that can be applied at the local, regional and international scales. This is a set of options targeted at practitioners and policy makers to encourage careful examination of possible courses of action, validating their impact and documenting outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silviu O Petrovan
- BioRISC (Biosecurity Research Initiative at St Catharine's), St Catharine's College, Cambridge, CB2 1RL, U.K.,Department of Zoology, University of Cambridge, The David Attenborough Building, Pembroke Street, Cambridge, CB2 3QZ, U.K
| | - David C Aldridge
- BioRISC (Biosecurity Research Initiative at St Catharine's), St Catharine's College, Cambridge, CB2 1RL, U.K.,Department of Zoology, University of Cambridge, The David Attenborough Building, Pembroke Street, Cambridge, CB2 3QZ, U.K
| | - Harriet Bartlett
- Department of Zoology, University of Cambridge, The David Attenborough Building, Pembroke Street, Cambridge, CB2 3QZ, U.K.,Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Cambridge, Madingley Road, Cambridge, CB3 0ES, U.K
| | - Andrew J Bladon
- BioRISC (Biosecurity Research Initiative at St Catharine's), St Catharine's College, Cambridge, CB2 1RL, U.K.,Department of Zoology, University of Cambridge, The David Attenborough Building, Pembroke Street, Cambridge, CB2 3QZ, U.K
| | - Hollie Booth
- Interdisciplinary Centre for Conservation Science, Department of Zoology, University of Oxford, Oxford, OX1 3SZ, U.K
| | - Steven Broad
- TRAFFIC, The David Attenborough Building, Pembroke Street, Cambridge, CB2 3QZ, U.K
| | - Donald M Broom
- BioRISC (Biosecurity Research Initiative at St Catharine's), St Catharine's College, Cambridge, CB2 1RL, U.K.,Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Cambridge, Madingley Road, Cambridge, CB3 0ES, U.K
| | - Neil D Burgess
- UNEP-WCMC, 219 Huntington Road, Cambridge, CB3 0DL, U.K.,GLOBE Institute, University of Copenhagen, Oester Voldgade 5-7, Copenhagen, 1350, Denmark
| | - Sarah Cleaveland
- Institute of Biodiversity, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, Animal Health & Comparative Medicine, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, G12 8QQ, U.K
| | | | - Maurizio Ferri
- Italian Society of Preventive Veterinary Medicine (Simevep), Via Nizza 11, Rome, 00198, Italy
| | - Amy Hinsley
- Wildlife Conservation Research Unit, Department of Zoology, University of Oxford, Oxford, OX1 3SZ, U.K
| | - Fangyuan Hua
- Institute of Ecology, College of Urban and Environmental Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, P.R. China
| | - Alice C Hughes
- Centre for Integrative Conservation, Xishuangbanna Tropical Botanical Garden, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xishuangbanna, Yunnan, 666303, P.R. China
| | - Kate Jones
- Centre for Biodiversity and Environment Research, University College London, Gower Street, London, WC1E 6BT, U.K
| | - Moira Kelly
- Wildlife Health Ghent, Department of Pathology, Bacteriology and Poultry Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Salisburylaan 133, Merelbeke, B-9820, Belgium
| | - George Mayes
- MacArthur Barstow & Gibbs Veterinary Surgeons, 36 Hanbury Road, Droitwich, WR9 8PW, U.K
| | - Milorad Radakovic
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Cambridge, Madingley Road, Cambridge, CB3 0ES, U.K
| | - Chinedu A Ugwu
- Africa Centre of Excellence for Genomics of Infectious Disease, Redeemers' University Ede, Osun State, Nigeria
| | - Nasir Uddin
- Centre for Integrative Conservation, Xishuangbanna Tropical Botanical Garden, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xishuangbanna, Yunnan, 666303, P.R. China
| | - Diogo Veríssimo
- Interdisciplinary Centre for Conservation Science, Department of Zoology, University of Oxford, Oxford, OX1 3SZ, U.K.,Institute for Conservation Research, San Diego Zoo Global, Escondido, CA, 92027, U.S.A
| | - Christian Walzer
- Research Institute of Wildlife Ecology, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Savoyenstraße 1, Vienna, A-1160, Austria.,Wildlife Conservation Society, 2300 Southern Blvd., Bronx, NY, U.S.A
| | - Thomas B White
- Department of Zoology, University of Cambridge, The David Attenborough Building, Pembroke Street, Cambridge, CB2 3QZ, U.K
| | - James L Wood
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Cambridge, Madingley Road, Cambridge, CB3 0ES, U.K
| | - William J Sutherland
- BioRISC (Biosecurity Research Initiative at St Catharine's), St Catharine's College, Cambridge, CB2 1RL, U.K.,Department of Zoology, University of Cambridge, The David Attenborough Building, Pembroke Street, Cambridge, CB2 3QZ, U.K
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21
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A Novel Presentation of Tuberculosis with Intestinal Perforation in a Free-Ranging Australian Sea Lion (Neophoca cinerea). J Wildl Dis 2021; 57:220-224. [PMID: 33635989 DOI: 10.7589/jwd-d-20-00104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2020] [Accepted: 07/30/2020] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
We detail a novel presentation of tuberculosis associated with intestinal perforation in an endangered Australian sea lion (Neophoca cinerea) from South Australian waters and confirm the presence of this disease in the region of highest pup production. In February 2017, a 3-yr-old juvenile male died shortly after hauling out at the Kingscote beach on Kangaroo Island. On postmortem examination, we found a mid-jejunal intestinal perforation and partial obstruction (from a strangulating fibrous and granulomatous mesenteric mass), a marked multicentric abdominal fibrosing granulomatous lymphadenitis, and a large volume serosanguinous peritoneal effusion. Acid-fast bacteria were detected postmortem in cytologic preparations of the mesenteric lymph node and in histologic sections of jejunum and the encircling mass. Mycobacterial infection was confirmed by positive culture after 3 wk. Molecular typing using mycobacterial interspersed repetitive-unit-variable-number tandem-repeat typing with 12-locus analysis identified Mycobacterium pinnipedii. This case highlights the need for vigilance of zoonotic disease risk when handling pinnipeds, including in the absence of specific respiratory signs or grossly apparent pulmonary pathology. Increased serologic population surveillance is recommended to assess the species' risk from this and other endemic diseases, especially given its endangered status.
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22
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Vendl C, Nelson T, Ferrari B, Thomas T, Rogers T. Highly abundant core taxa in the blow within and across captive bottlenose dolphins provide evidence for a temporally stable airway microbiota. BMC Microbiol 2021; 21:20. [PMID: 33421992 PMCID: PMC7796641 DOI: 10.1186/s12866-020-02076-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2020] [Accepted: 12/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The analysis of blow microbiota has been proposed as a biomarker for respiratory health analysis in cetaceans. Yet, we lack crucial knowledge on the long-term stability of the blow microbiota and its potential changes during disease. Research in humans and mice have provided evidence that respiratory disease is accompanied by a shift in microbial communities of the airways. We investigate here the stability of the community composition of the blow microbiota for 13 captive bottlenose dolphins over eight months including both sick and healthy individuals. We used barcoded tag sequencing of the bacterial 16S rRNA gene. Four of the dolphins experienced distinct medical conditions and received systemic antimicrobial treatment during the study. Results We showed that each dolphin harboured a unique community of zero-radius operational taxonomic units (zOTUs) that was present throughout the entire sampling period (‘intra-core’). Although for most dolphins there was significant variation over time, overall the intra-core accounted for an average of 73% of relative abundance of the blow microbiota. In addition, the dolphins shared between 8 and 66 zOTUs on any of the sampling occasions (‘inter-core’), accounting for a relative abundance between 17 and 41% of any dolphin’s airway microbiota. The majority of the intra-core and all of the inter-core zOTUs in this study are commonly found in captive and free-ranging dolphins and have previously been reported from several different body sites. While we did not find a clear effect of microbial treatment on blow microbiota, age and sex of the dolphins did have such an effect. Conclusions The airways of dolphins were colonized by an individual intra-core ‘signature’ that varied in abundance relative to more temporary bacteria. We speculate that the intra-core bacteria interact with the immune response of the respiratory tract and support its function. This study provides the first evidence of individual-specific airway microbiota in cetaceans that is stable over eight months. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12866-020-02076-z.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catharina Vendl
- Evolution and Ecology Research Centre, School of Biological, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, 2052, Australia.
| | - Tiffanie Nelson
- Queensland Facility for Advanced Bioinformatics, Griffith University, Gold Coast, Southport, QLD, 4215, Australia
| | - Belinda Ferrari
- School of Biotechnology and Biomolecular Sciences, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, 2052, Australia
| | - Torsten Thomas
- Centre for Marine Science and Innovation, School of Biological, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, 2052, Australia
| | - Tracey Rogers
- Evolution and Ecology Research Centre, School of Biological, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, 2052, Australia
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23
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Jurelevicius D, Cotta SR, Montezzi LF, Dias ACF, Mason OU, Picão RC, Jansson JK, Seldin L. Enrichment of potential pathogens in marine microbiomes with different degrees of anthropogenic activity. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2021; 268:115757. [PMID: 33168375 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2020.115757] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2020] [Revised: 09/18/2020] [Accepted: 09/26/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Anthropogenic activities in coastal marine ecosystems can lead to an increase in the abundance of potentially harmful microorganisms in the marine environment. To understand anthropogenic impacts on the marine microbiome, we first used publicly available microbial phylogenetic and functional data to establish a dataset of bacterial genera potentially related to pathogens that cause diseases (BGPRD) in marine organisms. Representatives of low-, medium- and highly impacted marine coastal environments were selected, and the abundance and composition of their microbial communities were determined by quantitative PCR and 16 S rRNA gene sequencing. In total, 72 BGPRD were cataloged, and 11, 36 and 37 BGPRD were found in low-, medium- and highly human-impacted ecosystems, respectively. The absolute abundance of BGPRD and the co-occurrence of antibiotic resistance genes (AGR) increased with the degree of anthropogenic perturbation in these ecosystems. Anthropogenically impacted coastal microbiomes were compositionally and functionally distinct from those of less impacted sites, presenting features that may contribute to adverse outcomes for marine macrobiota in the Anthropocene era.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diogo Jurelevicius
- Instituto de Microbiologia Paulo de Góes, Universidade Federal Do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil.
| | - Simone R Cotta
- ESALQ - Escola Superior de Agricultura Luiz de Queiroz, Piracicaba, SP, Brazil
| | - Lara F Montezzi
- Instituto de Microbiologia Paulo de Góes, Universidade Federal Do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Armando C F Dias
- ESALQ - Escola Superior de Agricultura Luiz de Queiroz, Piracicaba, SP, Brazil
| | - Olivia U Mason
- Department of Earth, Ocean and Atmospheric Science, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL, USA
| | - Renata C Picão
- Instituto de Microbiologia Paulo de Góes, Universidade Federal Do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Janet K Jansson
- Earth and Biological, Sciences Directorate, Pacific Northwest National Laboratory, Richland, WA, USA
| | - Lucy Seldin
- Instituto de Microbiologia Paulo de Góes, Universidade Federal Do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
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24
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Bai S, Zhang P, Lin M, Lin W, Yang Z, Li S. Microbial diversity and structure in the gastrointestinal tracts of two stranded short-finned pilot whales (Globicephala macrorhynchus) and a pygmy sperm whale (Kogia breviceps). Integr Zool 2020; 16:324-335. [PMID: 33174288 PMCID: PMC9292824 DOI: 10.1111/1749-4877.12502] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Information on the gut microbiome composition of different mammals could provide novel insights into the evolution of mammals and succession of microbial communities in different hosts. However, there is limited information on the gut microbiome composition of marine mammals, especially cetaceans because of sampling constraints. In this study, we investigated the diversity and composition of microbial communities in the stomach, midgut, and hindgut of 2 stranded short‐finned pilot whales (Globicephala macrorhynchus) and hindgut of a stranded pygmy sperm whale (Kogia breviceps) by using 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing technology. On the basis of the 50 most abundant operational taxonomic units, principal coordinate analysis, and non‐metric multidimensional scaling analysis, we confirmed that the gut microbial communities of the 3 whales were different. Our results revealed that the gut microbiome of 1 stranded short‐finned pilot whale GM16 was dominated by Firmicutes (mainly Clostridium) and Fusobacteria; whereas that of the other pilot whale GM19 was composed of Gammaproteobacteria and Bacteroidetes (mainly Vibrio and Bacteroides, respectively), probably caused by intestinal disease and antibiotic treatment. The gut microbiome of the pygmy sperm whale was dominated by Firmicutes and Bacteroidetes. Moreover, different gastrointestinal tract regions harbored different microbial community structures. To our knowledge, this is the first report of the gut microbiome of short‐finned pilot whales, and our findings will expand our current knowledge on microbial diversity and composition in the gastrointestinal tract of cetaceans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shijie Bai
- Institute of Deep-sea Science and Engineering, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Sanya, China
| | - Peijun Zhang
- Institute of Deep-sea Science and Engineering, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Sanya, China
| | - Mingli Lin
- Institute of Deep-sea Science and Engineering, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Sanya, China
| | - Wenzhi Lin
- Institute of Deep-sea Science and Engineering, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Sanya, China
| | - Zixin Yang
- Institute of Deep-sea Science and Engineering, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Sanya, China
| | - Songhai Li
- Institute of Deep-sea Science and Engineering, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Sanya, China
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25
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COVID-19 Highlights the Need for More Effective Wildlife Trade Legislation. Trends Ecol Evol 2020; 35:1052-1055. [PMID: 33097287 PMCID: PMC7539804 DOI: 10.1016/j.tree.2020.10.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2020] [Revised: 10/02/2020] [Accepted: 10/02/2020] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Zoonosis-based epidemics are inevitable unless we revisit our relationship with the natural world, protect habitats, and regulate wildlife trade, including live animals and non-sustenance products. To prevent future zoonoses, governments must establish effective legislation addressing wildlife trade, protection of habitats, and reduction of the wildlife-livestock-human interface.
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26
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Martínez-Hernández F, Isaak-Delgado AB, Alfonso-Toledo JA, Muñoz-García CI, Villalobos G, Aréchiga-Ceballos N, Rendón-Franco E. Assessing the SARS-CoV-2 threat to wildlife: Potential risk to a broad range of mammals. Perspect Ecol Conserv 2020; 18:223-234. [PMID: 33043253 PMCID: PMC7534737 DOI: 10.1016/j.pecon.2020.09.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2020] [Accepted: 09/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) can infect animals, however, the whole range of potential hosts is still unknown. This work makes an assessment of wildlife susceptibility to SARS-CoV-2 by analyzing the similarities of Angiotensin Converting Enzyme 2 (ACE2) and Transmembrane Protease, Serine 2 (TMPRSS2)-both recognized as receptors and protease for coronavirus spike protein-and the genetic variation of the viral protein spike in the recognition sites. The sequences from different mammals, birds, reptiles, and amphibians, and the sequence from SARS-CoV-2 S protein were obtained from the GenBank. Comparisons of aligned sequences were made by selecting amino acids residues of ACE2, TMPRSS2 and S protein; phylogenetic trees were reconstructed using the same sequences. The species susceptibility was ranked by substituting the values of amino acid residues for both proteins. Our results ranked primates at the top, but surprisingly, just below are carnivores, cetaceans and wild rodents, showing a relatively high potential risk, as opposed to lab rodents that are typically mammals at lower risk. Most of the sequences from birds, reptiles and amphibians occupied the lowest ranges in the analyses. Models and phylogenetic trees outputs showed the species that are more prone to getting infected with SARS-CoV-2. Interestingly, during this short pandemic period, a high haplotypic variation was observed in the RBD of the viral S protein, suggesting new risks for other hosts. Our findings are consistent with other published results reporting laboratory and natural infections in different species. Finally, urgent measures of wildlife monitoring are needed regarding SARS-CoV-2, as well as measures for avoiding or limiting human contact with wildlife, and precautionary measures to protect wildlife workers and researchers; monitoring disposal of waste and sewage than can potentially affect the environment, and designing protocols for dealing with the outbreak.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fernando Martínez-Hernández
- Departamento de Ecología de Agentes Patógenos, Hospital General "Dr. Manuel Gea González", Calzada de Tlalpan #4800, Tlalpan, 14080 Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Ana Belem Isaak-Delgado
- Departamento de Parasitología, Facultad de Medicina Veterinaria y Zootecnia, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Av. Universidad #3000, Coyoacán, 04510 Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Jorge Alberto Alfonso-Toledo
- Unidad de Posgrado, Facultad de Medicina Veterinaria y Zootecnia, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Av. Universidad #3000, Coyoacán, 04510 Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Claudia Irais Muñoz-García
- Departamento de Producción Agrícola y Animal, Universidad Autónoma Metropolitana, Calzada del Hueso #1100, Col. Villa Quietud, Coyoacán, 04960 Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Guiehdani Villalobos
- Departamento de Ecología de Agentes Patógenos, Hospital General "Dr. Manuel Gea González", Calzada de Tlalpan #4800, Tlalpan, 14080 Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Nidia Aréchiga-Ceballos
- Laboratorio de Rabia, Instituto de Diagnóstico y Referencia Epidemiológicos, Francisco de P. Miranda 177, Lomas de Plateros, Álvaro Obregón, 01480 Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Emilio Rendón-Franco
- Departamento de Producción Agrícola y Animal, Universidad Autónoma Metropolitana, Calzada del Hueso #1100, Col. Villa Quietud, Coyoacán, 04960 Mexico City, Mexico
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27
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Wan X, Li J, Cheng Z, Ao M, Tian R, McLaughlin RW, Zheng J, Wang D. The intestinal microbiome of an Indo-Pacific humpback dolphin (Sousa chinensis) stranded near the Pearl River Estuary, China. Integr Zool 2020; 16:287-299. [PMID: 32761739 DOI: 10.1111/1749-4877.12477] [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] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
The mammalian intestinal microbiome is critical for host health and disease resistance. However, the cetacean intestinal microbiota remains relatively unexplored. By using high-throughput 16S rRNA gene sequencing, we analyzed intestinal bacterial samples from an Indo-pacific humpback dolphin (Sousa chinensis) stranded near the Pearl River Estuary in China. The samples included 3 anatomical regions (foregut, midgut, and rectum) and 2 anatomical locations (content and mucus). Our analyses revealed that the dolphin intestinal bacteria contained 139 operational taxonomic units (OTUs), dominated at the phyla level by Firmicutes (47.05% in the content; 94.77% in the mucus), followed by Bacteroidetes (23.63% in the content; 1.58% in the mucus) and Gammaproteobacteria (14.82% in the content; 2.05% in the mucus). The intestinal bacteria had a small core community (15 OTUs, accounting for 99.74% of the reads), some of which could be potentially pathogenic to both human and dolphins. As an alternative to sampling the dolphin intestinal bacteria, fecal sampling could be used. Additionally, function potentials such as, xenobiotics biodegradation, beta-lactam resistance, and human disease-related pathways, were detected in the dolphin intestinal bacteria. These findings provide the first baseline knowledge of the intestinal microbiome of the Indo-Pacific humpback dolphin, which may offer new insights into cetacean conservation by using microbial surveillance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoling Wan
- The Key Laboratory of Aquatic Biodiversity and Conservation of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Institute of Hydrobiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, China
| | - Jia Li
- The Key Laboratory of Aquatic Biodiversity and Conservation of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Institute of Hydrobiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Zhaolong Cheng
- The Key Laboratory of Aquatic Biodiversity and Conservation of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Institute of Hydrobiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, China.,Yellow Sea Fisheries Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences, Qingdao, China
| | - Mengxue Ao
- The Key Laboratory of Aquatic Biodiversity and Conservation of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Institute of Hydrobiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, China
| | - Renmao Tian
- Institute for Environmental Genomics, Department of Microbiology and Plant Biology, School of Civil Engineering and Environmental Sciences, University of Oklahoma, Norman, Oklahoma, USA.,Institute for Food Safety and Health, Illinois Institute of Technology, Bedford Park, Illinois, USA
| | - Richard William McLaughlin
- The Key Laboratory of Aquatic Biodiversity and Conservation of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Institute of Hydrobiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, China.,General Studies, Gateway Technical College, Kenosha, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Jinsong Zheng
- The Key Laboratory of Aquatic Biodiversity and Conservation of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Institute of Hydrobiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, China
| | - Ding Wang
- The Key Laboratory of Aquatic Biodiversity and Conservation of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Institute of Hydrobiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, China
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28
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MYCOBACTERIAL DISEASE AND SUBSEQUENT DIAGNOSTIC INVESTIGATIONS IN A GROUP OF CAPTIVE PINNIPEDS IN NEW ZEALAND. J Zoo Wildl Med 2020; 51:177-187. [PMID: 32212561 DOI: 10.1638/2019-0007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/02/2019] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
This case series includes a single case of disseminated tuberculous disease due to Mycobacterium pinnipedii in a New Zealand fur seal (Arctocephalus forsteri), which was being cared for by a zoo in New Zealand. The remaining five pinnipeds in the colony underwent extensive mycobacterial disease surveillance over the following 4 yr, involving a total of 26 anesthetic procedures and numerous diagnostic tests that included comparative intradermal tuberculin skin tests, mycobacterial antibody serology, respiratory and gastric lavages, and computed tomography (CT) scans. An additional case of chronic sinusitis due to Mycobacterium marinum and Pseudomonas aeruginosa was identified in a California sea lion (Zalophus californianus). Results from CT and the respiratory lavages were the most helpful antemortem diagnostic tests for active mycobacterial disease in this case series. Of the remaining four animals, two were euthanatized and two remain alive, and none of them had evidence of active mycobacterial disease. Further mycobacterial disease surveillance in staff and animals was performed, and no other case was identified. There are no validated mycobacterial surveillance tests available for pinnipeds and so it remains unknown whether the two surviving pinnipeds are truly negative or whether they have latent mycobacterial infection that could develop into active mycobacterial disease in the future. For this reason, increased levels of biosecurity and quarantine remain permanently in place for the pinniped colony.
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29
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Respiratory microbiota of humpback whales may be reduced in diversity and richness the longer they fast. Sci Rep 2020; 10:12645. [PMID: 32724137 PMCID: PMC7387350 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-69602-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2019] [Accepted: 07/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Humpback whales endure several months of fasting while undertaking one of the longest annual migrations of any mammal, which depletes the whales’ energy stores and likely compromises their physiological state. Airway microbiota are linked to respiratory health in mammals. To illuminate the dynamics of airway microbiota in a physiologically challenged mammal, we investigated the bacterial communities in the blow of East Australian humpback whales at two stages of their migration: at the beginning (n = 20) and several months into their migration (n = 20), using barcoded tag sequencing of the bacterial 16S rRNA gene. We show that early in the fasting the whale blow samples had a higher diversity and richness combined with a larger number of core taxa and a different bacterial composition than later in the fasting. This study provides some evidence that the rich blow microbiota at the beginning of their fasting might reflect the whales’ uncompromised physiology and that changes in the microbiota occur during the whales’ migration.
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30
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Kowalska JD, Kazimierczak J, Sowińska PM, Wójcik EA, Siwicki AK, Dastych J. Growing Trend of Fighting Infections in Aquaculture Environment-Opportunities and Challenges of Phage Therapy. Antibiotics (Basel) 2020; 9:antibiotics9060301. [PMID: 32512805 PMCID: PMC7345527 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics9060301] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2020] [Revised: 05/26/2020] [Accepted: 06/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Phage therapy, a promising alternative to antimicrobial treatment of bacterial diseases, is getting more and more popular, especially due to the rising awareness of antibiotic resistance and restrictions in antibiotics' use. During recent years, we observed a growing trend of bacteriophages' application in aquaculture, which in each year reports high losses due to bacterial diseases. This review provides an update of the status of bacteriophage therapy for the treatment and prevention of infections in the aquatic environment. As it is still mostly in the scientific stage, there are a few constraints that may prevent effective therapy. Therefore, specific characteristics of bacteriophages, that can act in favor or against their successful use in treatment, were described. We underlined aspects that need to be considered: specificity of phages, bacterial resistance, safety, immune response of the host organism, formulation, administration and stability of phage preparations as well as bacteriophages' influence on the environment. The biggest challenge to overcome is finding the right balance between the desired and problematic characteristics of bacteriophages. Finally, regulatory approval challenges may be encountered by bacteriophage manufacturers. Even though there are still some technical constraints connected with the global use of bacteriophage therapy, it was concluded that it can be successfully applied in aquaculture.
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Affiliation(s)
- Justyna D. Kowalska
- Proteon Pharmaceuticals, 90-364 Lodz, Poland; (J.K.); (P.M.S.); (E.A.W.); (J.D.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Joanna Kazimierczak
- Proteon Pharmaceuticals, 90-364 Lodz, Poland; (J.K.); (P.M.S.); (E.A.W.); (J.D.)
| | - Patrycja M. Sowińska
- Proteon Pharmaceuticals, 90-364 Lodz, Poland; (J.K.); (P.M.S.); (E.A.W.); (J.D.)
| | - Ewelina A. Wójcik
- Proteon Pharmaceuticals, 90-364 Lodz, Poland; (J.K.); (P.M.S.); (E.A.W.); (J.D.)
| | - Andrzej K. Siwicki
- Department of Microbiology and Clinical Immunology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Warmia and Mazury, 10-719 Olsztyn, Poland;
| | - Jarosław Dastych
- Proteon Pharmaceuticals, 90-364 Lodz, Poland; (J.K.); (P.M.S.); (E.A.W.); (J.D.)
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Robles-Malagamba MJ, Walsh MT, Ahasan MS, Thompson P, Wells RS, Jobin C, Fodor AA, Winglee K, Waltzek TB. Characterization of the bacterial microbiome among free-ranging bottlenose dolphins ( Tursiops truncatus). Heliyon 2020; 6:e03944. [PMID: 32577542 PMCID: PMC7305398 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2020.e03944] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2020] [Revised: 02/07/2020] [Accepted: 05/05/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Marine animals represent a dynamic and complex habitat for diverse microbial communities. The microbiota associated with bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) are believed to influence their health status, but it remains poorly understood. We therefore characterized and compared the bacterial microbiome of bottlenose dolphins from six different anatomical sites that represent four different body systems (respiratory, digestive, reproductive, and integumentary). In this study, a total of 14 free-ranging bottlenose dolphins were sampled during the 2015 Sarasota Bay Dolphin Health Assessment. Bacterial diversity and abundance were assessed by PCR amplification of the hypervariable V3-V4 regions of the bacterial 16S rRNA gene for each sample, followed by sequencing on an Illumina MiSeq platform. Analysis showed that bottlenose dolphins harbor diverse bacterial communities with a unique microbial community at each body system. Additionally, the bottlenose dolphin bacterial microbiome was clearly distinct to the aquatic microbiome from their surrounding habitat. These results are in close agreement with other cetacean microbiome studies, while our study is the first to explore what was found to be a diverse bottlenose dolphin genital microbiome. The core bacterial communities identified in this study in apparently healthy animals might be informative for future health monitoring of bottlenose dolphins.
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Affiliation(s)
- María José Robles-Malagamba
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Immunology, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| | - Michael T. Walsh
- Department of Comparative, Diagnostic and Population Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| | - Mohammad Shamim Ahasan
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Immunology, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Obstetrics, Faculty of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Hajee Mohammad Danesh Science and Technology University, Dinajpur, Bangladesh
| | - Patrick Thompson
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Immunology, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| | - Randall S. Wells
- Chicago Zoological Society's Sarasota Dolphin Research Program, Mote Marine Laboratory, Sarasota, Florida, USA
| | - Christian Jobin
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Immunology, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| | - Anthony A. Fodor
- Department of Bioinformatics and Genomics, University of North Carolina, Charlotte, North Carolina, USA
| | - Kathryn Winglee
- Department of Bioinformatics and Genomics, University of North Carolina, Charlotte, North Carolina, USA
| | - Thomas B. Waltzek
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Immunology, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
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32
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Isolation of Leptospira interrogans from a Bottlenose Dolphin ( Tursiops truncatus) in the Mediterranean Sea. J Wildl Dis 2020; 56:727-729. [PMID: 32195642 DOI: 10.7589/2019-07-186] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
The pathogenic Leptospira species are very widespread in nature, persisting in the renal tubules of many domestic and wild animal reservoirs. We report the isolation of Leptospira interrogans serovar Pomona in a bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops truncatus) stranded along the coast of Sardinia, Italy, in 2016.
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Kim SW, Han SJ, Lee YR, Kim BY, Park SC. First report of a Risso’s dolphin (
Grampus griseus
) stranded in Jeju Island, Republic of Korea: findings from necropsy, histopathology and microbiome analysis. VETERINARY RECORD CASE REPORTS 2019. [DOI: 10.1136/vetreccr-2019-000860] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Sang Wha Kim
- College of Veterinary MedicineSeoul National UniversitySeoulKorea
| | - Se Jin Han
- College of Veterinary MedicineSeoul National UniversitySeoulKorea
| | | | - Byung Yeop Kim
- Department of Marine Industry and Maritime PoliceCollege of Ocean ScienceJeju National UniversityJeju‐doKorea
| | - Se Chang Park
- College of Veterinary MedicineSeoul National UniversitySeoulKorea
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34
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Tsai MA, Wang PC, Yoshida S, Aono A, Mitarai S, Wada T, Chen SC. Establishment of loop-mediated isothermal amplification for rapid and convenient detection of Mycobacterium marinum complex. J Microbiol Methods 2019; 164:105671. [PMID: 31326444 DOI: 10.1016/j.mimet.2019.105671] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2019] [Revised: 07/16/2019] [Accepted: 07/16/2019] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Mycobacterium marinum is a zoonotic pathogen that can cause dermatological infection mainly from contaminated water or fish. Some well-known genetically similar species and subspecies are M. lifrandii and M. pseudoshottsii from amphibians and fish in aquaculture, and M. ulcerans, a causative agent of a neglected tropical disease (NTD), Buruli ulcer. They are believed to survive in water as their major niche, which might be related to their source of infection, but detailed ecological surveillance of the species complex remains to be done. Herein, we present a new detection system for M. marinum complex based on isothermal DNA amplification that can be conducted conveniently with high sensitivity and specificity. The target was a chromosomal gene, mrsA, including a restriction polymorphism between M. ulcerans (except for the most ancestral subspecies, M. ulcerans subsp. shinshuense) and the other species. The system was able to detect less than 500 fg (approximately 70 copies) of genomic DNA of M. marinum, within 60 min, and caused no amplification from mycobacterial species other than M. marinum complex species. It was also verified that restriction of the amplified DNA fragments was able to discriminate M. ulcerans as expected. This easy, quick, and convenient system is expected to facilitate detection of M. marinum complex from various resources.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ming-An Tsai
- Department of Biology, National Museum of Marine Biology and Aquarium, Checheng, Pingtung, Taiwan, Republic of China; Graduate Institute of Marine Biology, National Dong Hwa University, Checheng, Pingtung, Taiwan, Republic of China
| | - Pei-Chi Wang
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, National Pingtung University of Science and Technology, Neipu, Pingtung, Taiwan, Republic of China
| | - Shiomi Yoshida
- Clinical Research Center, National Hospital Organization Kinki-chuo Chest Medical Center, Sakai, Osaka, Japan; Department of International Health, Institute of Tropical Medicine, Nagasaki University, Nagasaki, Japan
| | - Akio Aono
- Department of Mycobacterium Reference and Research, The Research Institute of Tuberculosis, Anti-tuberculosis Association, Kiyose, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Satoshi Mitarai
- Department of Mycobacterium Reference and Research, The Research Institute of Tuberculosis, Anti-tuberculosis Association, Kiyose, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Takayuki Wada
- Department of International Health, Institute of Tropical Medicine, Nagasaki University, Nagasaki, Japan; School of Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nagasaki University, Nagasaki, Japan.
| | - Shih-Chu Chen
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, National Pingtung University of Science and Technology, Neipu, Pingtung, Taiwan, Republic of China.
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35
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Marón CF, Kohl KD, Chirife A, Di Martino M, Fons MP, Navarro MA, Beingesser J, McAloose D, Uzal FA, Dearing MD, Rowntree VJ, Uhart M. Symbiotic microbes and potential pathogens in the intestine of dead southern right whale (Eubalaena australis) calves. Anaerobe 2019; 57:107-114. [PMID: 30959166 DOI: 10.1016/j.anaerobe.2019.04.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2018] [Revised: 03/30/2019] [Accepted: 04/01/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Between 2003 and 2017, at least 706 southern right whale (Eubalaena australis) calves died at the Península Valdés calving ground in Argentina. Pathogenic microbes are often suggested to be the cause of stranding events in cetaceans; however, to date there is no evidence supporting bacterial infections as a leading cause of right whale calf deaths in Argentina. We used high-throughput sequencing and culture methods to characterize the bacterial communities and to detect potential pathogens from the intestine of stranded calves. We analyzed small and large intestinal contents from 44 dead calves that stranded at Península Valdés from 2005 to 2010 and found 108 bacterial genera, most identified as Firmicutes or Bacteroidetes, and 9 genera that have been previously implicated in diseases of marine mammals. Only one operational taxonomic unit was present in all samples and identified as Clostridium perfringens type A. PCR results showed that all C. perfringens isolates (n = 38) were positive for alpha, 50% for beta 2 (n = 19) and 47% for enterotoxin (CPE) genes (n = 18). The latter is associated with food-poisoning and gastrointestinal diseases in humans and possibly other animals. The prevalence of the cpe gene found in the Valdés' calves is unusually high compared with other mammals. However, insufficient histologic evidence of gastrointestinal inflammation or necrosis (the latter possibly masked by autolysis) in the gut of stranded calves, and absence of enterotoxin detection precludes conclusions about the role of C. perfringens in calf deaths. Further work is required to determine whether C. perfringens or other pathogens detected in this study are causative agents of calf deaths at Península Valdés.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carina F Marón
- Facultad de Ciencias Exactas, Físicas y Naturales (FCEFyN), Universidad Nacional de Córdoba-CONICET, Córdoba, 5000, Argentina; Instituto de Conservación de Ballenas, Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, 1429, Argentina.
| | - Kevin D Kohl
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, 15260, United States
| | - Andrea Chirife
- Southern Right Whale Health Monitoring Program, Chubut, 9120, Argentina
| | - Matías Di Martino
- Southern Right Whale Health Monitoring Program, Chubut, 9120, Argentina
| | - Mariola Penadés Fons
- Biomedical Research Institute (PASAPTA-Pathology Group), Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad CEU Cardenal Herrera, CEU Universities, Valencia, Spain
| | - Mauricio A Navarro
- California Animal Health and Food Safety Laboratory, University of California, Davis, CA, 92408, United States
| | - Juliann Beingesser
- California Animal Health and Food Safety Laboratory, University of California, Davis, CA, 92408, United States
| | - Denise McAloose
- Southern Right Whale Health Monitoring Program, Chubut, 9120, Argentina; Wildlife Conservation Society, Zoological Health Program, Bronx Zoo, Bronx, NY, 10464, USA
| | - Francisco A Uzal
- California Animal Health and Food Safety Laboratory, University of California, Davis, CA, 92408, United States
| | - M Denise Dearing
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Utah, Utah, 84112, United States
| | - Victoria J Rowntree
- Instituto de Conservación de Ballenas, Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, 1429, Argentina; Southern Right Whale Health Monitoring Program, Chubut, 9120, Argentina; School of Biological Sciences, University of Utah, Utah, 84112, United States; Whale Conservation Institute/Ocean Alliance, Massachusetts, 01930, United States
| | - Marcela Uhart
- Southern Right Whale Health Monitoring Program, Chubut, 9120, Argentina; School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California Davis, California, 95616, United States
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Stilwell JM, Griffin MJ, Rosser TG, Leary J, Hagen-Frei K, Mischke CC, Pomaranski EK, Soto E, Camus AC. First detection of Erysipelothrix sp. infection in western mosquitofish Gambusia affinis inhabiting catfish aquaculture ponds in Mississippi, USA. DISEASES OF AQUATIC ORGANISMS 2019; 133:39-46. [PMID: 30997883 DOI: 10.3354/dao03332] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Native and introduced fish can serve as reservoirs for pathogens of cultured fish species. In the current study, 351 archived western mosquitofish Gambusia affinis collected from experimental catfish production ponds in Mississippi, USA, were surveyed histologically to evaluate their potential as vectors for fish pathogens. In addition to epitheliocystis and multiple metazoan parasites, 8 fish had widespread basophilic colonies of small Gram-positive rods associated primarily with stroma supporting the skeletal muscle and bone, as well as connective tissue components of other tissues and organ systems, such as perivascular adventitia and basement membranes. These findings were consistent with spaC-type Erysipelothrix sp. infections in ornamental fish cultured in the USA. The 16S rRNA, gyrase B (gyrB), and surface protective antigen (spa) genes were amplified and sequenced from bacterial colonies excised from paraffin-embedded tissue sections using laser capture microdissection. Molecular data confirmed the identity of a spaC-type Erysipelothrix sp., which grouped phylogenetically with spaC-type Erysipelothrix sp. from diseased ornamental fish. Given the significance of commercial catfish aquaculture in the southeastern USA and the widespread distribution of mosquitofish in catfish ponds throughout the region, infectivity trials with channel catfish Ictalurus punctatus were conducted. Catfish fingerlings were exposed to a spaC-type Erysipelothrix sp. isolate by intracoelomic injection and gavage. No mortality was observed in catfish exposed by either route, and surviving fish demonstrated no significant histopathologic lesions, suggesting channel catfish have low susceptibility to the bacteria. Further research is warranted to investigate the susceptibility of other cultured fish species to this emergent fish pathogen.
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Affiliation(s)
- Justin M Stilwell
- Department of Pathology, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Georgia, 501 D.W. Brooks Drive, Athens, GA 30602, USA
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37
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Li M, Zhao L, Ma J, Zhao N, Luo J, Wang C, Chen L, Ma G, Wang Y, He H. Vibrio vulnificus in aquariums is a novel threat to marine mammals and public health. Transbound Emerg Dis 2018; 65:1863-1871. [PMID: 30047566 PMCID: PMC7169869 DOI: 10.1111/tbed.12967] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2018] [Revised: 06/27/2018] [Accepted: 06/27/2018] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Vibrio vulnificus is a Gram-negative, curved, obligate halophilic marine bacterium that exclusively exists in coastal seawaters. Previous studies revealed that V. vulnificus is one of the most dangerous foodborne zoonotic pathogens for human beings. However, it remains unknown whether marine mammals can be infected by V. vulnificus. In May 2016, a captive spotted seal (Phoca largha) died due to septicemia induced by V. vulnificus. Upon post-mortem examination, V. vulnificus was isolated, identified, and named as BJ-PH01. Further analysis showed that BJ-PH01 belongs to biotype 1 and the Clinical genotype. Furthermore, we performed an epidemiological investigation of V. vulnificus in six aquariums in northern China. As a result, V. vulnificus was successfully isolated from all investigated aquariums. The positive rates ranged from 20% to 100% in each investigated aquarium. During the investigation, 12 strains of V. vulnificus were isolated, and all 12 isolates were classified into biotype 1. Eleven of the 12 isolates belonged to the Clinical genotype, and one isolate belonged to the Environmental genotype. All 12 isolated V. vulnificus strains showed limited antibiotic resistance. Overall, our work demonstrated that V. vulnificus is frequently distributed in aquariums, thus constituting a threat to captive marine mammals and to public health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meng Li
- National Research Center for Wildlife Borne DiseasesInstitute of ZoologyChinese Academy of SciencesBeijingChina
| | - Lin Zhao
- National Research Center for Wildlife Borne DiseasesInstitute of ZoologyChinese Academy of SciencesBeijingChina
- College of Life ScienceHebei Normal UniversityShijiazhuangChina
| | - Jiajun Ma
- National Research Center for Wildlife Borne DiseasesInstitute of ZoologyChinese Academy of SciencesBeijingChina
- College of Life SciencesUniversity of the Chinese Academy of SciencesBeijingChina
| | - Na Zhao
- CAS Key Laboratory of Pathogenic Microbiology and ImmunologyInstitute of MicrobiologyChinese Academy of SciencesBeijingChina
| | - Jing Luo
- National Research Center for Wildlife Borne DiseasesInstitute of ZoologyChinese Academy of SciencesBeijingChina
| | - Chengmin Wang
- National Research Center for Wildlife Borne DiseasesInstitute of ZoologyChinese Academy of SciencesBeijingChina
| | - Lin Chen
- National Research Center for Wildlife Borne DiseasesInstitute of ZoologyChinese Academy of SciencesBeijingChina
- College of Life SciencesUniversity of the Chinese Academy of SciencesBeijingChina
| | - Guoyao Ma
- National Research Center for Wildlife Borne DiseasesInstitute of ZoologyChinese Academy of SciencesBeijingChina
- College of Life SciencesUniversity of the Chinese Academy of SciencesBeijingChina
| | - Yutian Wang
- Department of MicrobiologyBeijing General Station of Animal HusbandryBeijingChina
| | - Hongxuan He
- National Research Center for Wildlife Borne DiseasesInstitute of ZoologyChinese Academy of SciencesBeijingChina
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38
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Ugochukwu ICI, Samuel F, Orakpoghenor O, Nwobi OC, Anyaoha CO, Majesty-Alukagberie LO, Ugochukwu MO, Ugochukwu EI. Erysipelas, the opportunistic zoonotic disease: history, epidemiology, pathology, and diagnosis—a review. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2018. [DOI: 10.1007/s00580-018-2856-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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39
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Desoubeaux G, Le-Bert C, Fravel V, Clauss T, Delaune AJ, Soto J, Jensen ED, Flower JE, Wells R, Bossart GD, Cray C. Evaluation of a genus-specific ELISA and a commercial Aspergillus Western blot IgG® immunoblot kit for the diagnosis of aspergillosis in common bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus). Med Mycol 2018; 56:847-856. [PMID: 29228323 DOI: 10.1093/mmy/myx114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2017] [Accepted: 10/10/2017] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Aspergillosis is a fungal infection with high mortality and morbidity rates. As in humans, its definitive diagnosis is difficult in animals, and thus new laboratory tools are required to overcome the diagnostic limitations due to low specificity and lack of standardization. In this study of common bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus), we evaluated the diagnostic performance of a new commercial immunoblot kit that had been initially developed for the serologic diagnosis of chronic aspergillosis in humans. Using this in a quantitative approach, we first established its positive cutoff within an observation cohort of 32 serum samples from dolphins with "proven" or "probable" diagnosis of aspergillosis and 55 negative controls. A novel enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) test was also developed for detecting anti-Aspergillus antibodies, and results were compared between the two assays. Overall, the diagnostic performance of immunoblot and ELISA were strongly correlated (P < .0001). The former showed lower sensitivity (65.6% versus 90.6%), but higher specificity (92.7% vs. 69.1%), with no cross-reaction with other fungal infections caused by miscellaneous non-Aspergillus genera. When assessing their use in a validation cohort, the immunoblot kit and the ELISA enabled positive diagnosis before mycological cultures in 42.9% and 33.3% subjects addressed for suspicion of aspergillosis, respectively. There was also significant impact of antifungal treatment on the results of the two tests (P < .05). In all, these new serological methods show promise in aiding in the diagnosis of aspergillosis in dolphins, and illustrate the opportunity to adapt commercial reagents directed for human diagnostics to detect similar changes in other animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guillaume Desoubeaux
- University of Miami, Division of Comparative Pathology, Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL - USA.,CHU de Tours, Service de Parasitologie - Mycologie - Médecine tropicale, Tours - France.,Université François-Rabelais, CEPR - INSERM U1100 / Équipe 3, Faculté de Médecine, Tours - France
| | | | | | | | | | - Jeny Soto
- University of Miami, Division of Comparative Pathology, Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL - USA
| | - Eric D Jensen
- U.S. Navy Marine Mammal Program, San Diego, CA - USA
| | - Jennifer E Flower
- Mystic Aquarium, a division of Sea Research Foundation Inc., Mystic, CT - USA
| | - Randall Wells
- Chicago Zoological Society's Sarasota Dolphin Research Program, c/o Mote Marine Laboratory, Sarasota, FL - USA
| | - Gregory D Bossart
- University of Miami, Division of Comparative Pathology, Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL - USA.,Georgia Aquarium, Atlanta, GA - USA
| | - Carolyn Cray
- University of Miami, Division of Comparative Pathology, Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL - USA
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Jacob JM, Subramaniam K, Tu SL, Nielsen O, Tuomi PA, Upton C, Waltzek TB. Complete genome sequence of a novel sea otterpox virus. Virus Genes 2018; 54:756-767. [PMID: 30225673 DOI: 10.1007/s11262-018-1594-8] [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: 06/14/2018] [Accepted: 08/07/2018] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Members of the Poxviridae family are large, double-stranded DNA viruses that replicate in the cytoplasm of their host cells. The subfamily Chordopoxvirinae contains viruses that infect a wide range of vertebrates including marine mammals within the Balaenidae, Delphinidae, Mustelidae, Odobenidae, Otariidae, Phocidae, and Phocoenidae families. Recently, a novel poxvirus was found in a northern sea otter pup (Enhydra lutris kenyoni) that stranded in Alaska in 2009. The phylogenetic relationships of marine mammal poxviruses are not well established because of the lack of complete genome sequences. The current study sequenced the entire sea otterpox virus Enhydra lutris kenyoni (SOPV-ELK) genome using an Illumina MiSeq sequencer. The SOPV-ELK genome is the smallest poxvirus genome known at 127,879 bp, is 68.7% A+T content, is predicted to encode 132 proteins, and has 2546 bp inverted terminal repeats at each end. Genetic and phylogenetic analyses based on the concatenated amino acid sequences of 7 chorodopoxvirus core genes revealed the SOPV-ELK is 52.5-74.1% divergent from other known chordopoxviruses and is most similar to pteropoxvirus from Australia (PTPV-Aus). SOPV-ELK represents a new chordopoxvirus species and may belong to a novel genus. SOPV-ELK encodes eight unique genes. While the function of six predicted genes remains unknown, two genes appear to function as novel immune-modulators. SOPV-ELK-003 appears to encode a novel interleukin-18 binding protein (IL-18 BP), based on limited sequence and structural similarity to other poxviral IL-18 BPs. SOPV-ELK-035 appears to encode a novel tumor necrosis factor receptor-like (TNFR) protein that may be associated with the depression of the host's antiviral response. Additionally, SOPV-ELK-036 encodes a tumor necrosis factor-like apoptosis-inducing ligand (TRAIL) protein that has previously only been found in PTPV-Aus. The SOPV-ELK genome is the first mustelid poxvirus and only the second poxvirus from a marine mammal to be fully sequenced. Sequencing of the SOPV-ELK genome is an important step in unraveling the position of marine mammal poxviruses within the larger Poxviridae phylogenetic tree and provides the necessary sequence to develop molecular tools for future diagnostics and epidemiological studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica M Jacob
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Immunology, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, 32610, USA
| | - Kuttichantran Subramaniam
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Immunology, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, 32610, USA
| | - Shin-Lin Tu
- Biochemistry and Microbiology Department, University of Victoria, Victoria, BC, V8W 2Y2, Canada
| | - Ole Nielsen
- Department of Fisheries and Oceans Canada, Central and Arctic Region, Winnipeg, MB, R3T 2N6, Canada
| | | | - Chris Upton
- Biochemistry and Microbiology Department, University of Victoria, Victoria, BC, V8W 2Y2, Canada
| | - Thomas B Waltzek
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Immunology, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, 32610, USA.
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41
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Mancia A. On the revolution of cetacean evolution. Mar Genomics 2018; 41:1-5. [PMID: 30154054 DOI: 10.1016/j.margen.2018.08.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2018] [Revised: 08/21/2018] [Accepted: 08/21/2018] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
The order of Cetacea with 88 species including Odontoceti (or toothed whales) and Mysticeti (or baleen whales) is the most specialized and diversified group of mammals. The blue whale with a maximum recorded length of 29.9 m for 173 t of weight is the largest animal known to have ever existed, and any dolphin's brain is most powerful and complex than any other brain in the animal kingdom, second only to primate's. Nevertheless, Cetacea are mammals that re-entered the oceans only a little over 50 million years ago, a relatively short time on the evolutionary scale. During this time cetaceans and humans have developed marked morphological and behavioral differences, yet their genomes show a high level of similarity. This present review is focused on the description and significance of newly accessible cetacean genome tools and information, and their relevance in the study of the evolution of successful phenotypic adaptations associated to mammal's marine existence, and their applicability to the unresolved disease mechanisms in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annalaura Mancia
- University of Ferrara, Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Ferrara 44121, Italy.
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42
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Dooley CT, Ferrer T, Pagán H, O’Corry-Crowe GM. Bridging immunogenetics and immunoproteomics: Model positional scanning library analysis for Major Histocompatibility Complex class II DQ in Tursiops truncatus. PLoS One 2018; 13:e0201299. [PMID: 30070993 PMCID: PMC6072028 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0201299] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2018] [Accepted: 07/12/2018] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
The Major Histocompatibility Complex (MHC) is a critical element in mounting an effective immune response in vertebrates against invading pathogens. Studies of MHC in wildlife populations have typically focused on assessing diversity within the peptide binding regions (PBR) of the MHC class II (MHC II) family, especially the DQ receptor genes. Such metrics of diversity, however, are of limited use to health risk assessment since functional analyses (where changes in the PBR are correlated to recognition/pathologies of known pathogen proteins), are difficult to conduct in wildlife species. Here we describe a means to predict the binding preferences of MHC proteins: We have developed a model positional scanning library analysis (MPSLA) by harnessing the power of mixture based combinatorial libraries to probe the peptide landscapes of distinct MHC II DQ proteins. The algorithm provided by NNAlign was employed to predict the binding affinities of sets of peptides generated for DQ proteins. These binding affinities were then used to retroactively construct a model Positional Scanning Library screen. To test the utility of the approach, a model screen was compared to physical combinatorial screens for human MHC II DP. Model library screens were generated for DQ proteins derived from sequence data from bottlenose dolphins from the Indian River Lagoon (IRL) and the Atlantic coast of Florida, and compared to screens of DQ proteins from Genbank for dolphin and three other cetaceans. To explore the peptide binding landscape for DQ proteins from the IRL, combinations of the amino acids identified as active were compiled into peptide sequence lists that were used to mine databases for representation in known proteins. The frequency of which peptide sequences predicted to bind the MHC protein are found in proteins from pathogens associated with marine mammals was found to be significant (p values <0.0001). Through this analysis, genetic variation in MHC (classes I and II) can now be associated with the binding repertoires of the expressed MHC proteins and subsequently used to identify target pathogens. This approach may be eventually applied to evaluate individual population and species risk for outbreaks of emerging diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Colette T. Dooley
- Torrey Pines Institute for Molecular Studies, Port St. Lucie, Florida, United States of America
| | - Tatiana Ferrer
- Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute, Florida Atlantic University, Fort Pierce, Florida, United States of America
| | - Heidi Pagán
- Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute, Florida Atlantic University, Fort Pierce, Florida, United States of America
| | - Gregory M. O’Corry-Crowe
- Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute, Florida Atlantic University, Fort Pierce, Florida, United States of America
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Powell SN, Wallen MM, Bansal S, Mann J. Epidemiological investigation of tattoo-like skin lesions among bottlenose dolphins in Shark Bay, Australia. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2018; 630:774-780. [PMID: 29499535 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2018.02.202] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2017] [Revised: 02/17/2018] [Accepted: 02/17/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Bottlenose dolphins are excellent bioindicators of ocean ecosystem health for three reasons: (a) as long-lived apex predators they accumulate biotoxins and contaminants; (b) they are visible, routinely appearing at the water's surface in coastal areas, often coming into close contact with humans; and, (c) they exhibit a range of pathogenic lesions attributable to environmental degradation. In this study, we analyzed tattoo-like skin lesions in a population of Tursiops aduncus studied for 30+years in Shark Bay, Australia, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. We provide important baseline data by documenting epidemiological patterns of tattoo-like skin lesions in a healthy, free-ranging population that builds on the previous data of tattoo skin disease (TSD) derived from free ranging, stranded, and dead dolphins. Individual dolphins were classified as symptomatic with tattoo-like skin disease if at least one photograph showed a lesion similar to TSD. The average age of infection was 26.6months (±34.8months) with the symptomatic period lasting 137±29.8days. Overall prevalence of tattoo-like skin disease in the population was 19.4%. Age, but not sex, was significant, with yearlings (1-2years) exhibiting tattoo-like lesions more than younger and older calves. Tattoo-like lesions were rare among juvenile and adult dolphins (N=68 calves, 4 juveniles, and 3 adults). We hypothesize that the lower prevalence in youngest calves (<1year) is due to maternal immunity, while older individuals (>2years) have infection-acquired immunity, as reported for other small cetaceans. The low prevalence of tattoo-like lesions in Shark Bay compared to other populations with poxvirus is consistent with reproductive and demographic viability analyses. Furthermore, by documenting the demography of the disease, we can monitor changes in the prevalence of tattoo-like lesions as a sentinel indicator of ecosystem health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah N Powell
- Department of Biology, Georgetown University, 3700 O St. NW, Washington, DC 20057, USA.
| | - Megan M Wallen
- Department of Biology, Georgetown University, 3700 O St. NW, Washington, DC 20057, USA
| | - Shweta Bansal
- Department of Biology, Georgetown University, 3700 O St. NW, Washington, DC 20057, USA
| | - Janet Mann
- Department of Biology, Georgetown University, 3700 O St. NW, Washington, DC 20057, USA; Department of Psychology, Georgetown University, 3700 O St. NW, Washington, DC 20057, USA
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LEE K, KIM HK, PARK SK, SOHN H, CHO Y, CHOI YM, JEONG DG, KIM JH. First report of the occurrence and whole-genome characterization of Edwardsiella tarda in the false killer whale (Pseudorca crassidens). J Vet Med Sci 2018; 80:1041-1046. [PMID: 29695679 PMCID: PMC6021894 DOI: 10.1292/jvms.17-0590] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2017] [Accepted: 04/16/2018] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Although several Edwardsiella tarda infections have been reported, its pathogenic role in marine mammals has not been investigated at the genome level. We investigated the genome of E. tarda strain KC-Pc-HB1, isolated from the false killer whale (Pseudorca crassidens) found bycaught in South Korea. The obtained genome was similar to that of human pathogenic E. tarda strains, but distinct from other Edwardsiella species. Although type III and VI secretion systems, which are essential for the virulence of other Edwardsiella species, were absent, several virulence-related genes involved in the pathogenesis of E. tarda were found in the genome. These results provide important insights into the E. tarda infecting marine mammals and give valuable information on potential virulence factors in this pathogen.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kyunglee LEE
- Cetacean Research Institute (CRI), National Institute of
Fisheries Science (NIFS), Ulsan 44780, Republic of Korea
| | - Hye Kwon KIM
- Infectious Disease Research Center, Korea Research Institute
of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Daejeon 34141, Republic of Korea
| | - Sung-Kyun PARK
- Infectious Disease Research Center, Korea Research Institute
of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Daejeon 34141, Republic of Korea
| | - Hawsun SOHN
- Cetacean Research Institute (CRI), National Institute of
Fisheries Science (NIFS), Ulsan 44780, Republic of Korea
| | - Yuna CHO
- Cetacean Research Institute (CRI), National Institute of
Fisheries Science (NIFS), Ulsan 44780, Republic of Korea
| | - Young-Min CHOI
- Cetacean Research Institute (CRI), National Institute of
Fisheries Science (NIFS), Ulsan 44780, Republic of Korea
| | - Dae Gwin JEONG
- Infectious Disease Research Center, Korea Research Institute
of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Daejeon 34141, Republic of Korea
| | - Ji Hyung KIM
- Infectious Disease Research Center, Korea Research Institute
of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Daejeon 34141, Republic of Korea
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Surmik D, Szczygielski T, Janiszewska K, Rothschild BM. Tuberculosis-like respiratory infection in 245-million-year-old marine reptile suggested by bone pathologies. ROYAL SOCIETY OPEN SCIENCE 2018; 5:180225. [PMID: 30110474 PMCID: PMC6030318 DOI: 10.1098/rsos.180225] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2018] [Accepted: 04/24/2018] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
An absence of ancient archaeological and palaeontological evidence of pneumonia contrasts with its recognition in the more recent archaeological record. We document an apparent infection-mediated periosteal reaction affecting the dorsal ribs in a Middle Triassic eosauropterygian historically referred to as 'Proneusticosaurus' silesiacus. High-resolution X-ray microtomography and histological studies of the pathologically altered ribs revealed the presence of a continuous solid periosteal reaction with multiple superficial blebs (protrusions) on the visceral surfaces of several ribs. Increased vascularization and uneven lines of arrested growth document that the pathology was the result of a multi-seasonal disease. While visceral surface localization of this periosteal reaction represents the earliest identified evidence for pneumonia, the blebs may have an additional implication: they have only been previously recognized in humans with tuberculosis (TB). Along with this diagnosis is the presence of focal vertebral erosions, parsimoniously compared to vertebral manifestation of TB in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dawid Surmik
- Faculty of Earth Sciences, University of Silesia, Będzińska 60, 41-200 Sosnowiec, Poland
- Park of Science and Human Evolution, 1 Maja 10, 46-040 Krasiejów, Poland
- Author for correspondence: Dawid Surmik e-mail:
| | - Tomasz Szczygielski
- Institute of Paleobiology, Polish Academy of Sciences, Twarda 51/55, 00-818 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Katarzyna Janiszewska
- Institute of Paleobiology, Polish Academy of Sciences, Twarda 51/55, 00-818 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Bruce M. Rothschild
- Carnegie Museum, 4400 Forbes Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
- West Virginia University School of Medicine, Morgantown, WV 26506, USA
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46
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Colegrove KM, Burek-Huntington KA, Roe W, Siebert U. Pinnipediae. PATHOLOGY OF WILDLIFE AND ZOO ANIMALS 2018. [PMCID: PMC7150363 DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-12-805306-5.00023-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
This chapter reviews common diseases of pinnipeds, including species in the Otariidae (fur seals and sea lions), Phocidae (true seals), and Odobenidae (walrus) families. Much of the knowledge on pathologic conditions of pinnipeds comes from necropsies of stranded animals and those housed in captivity. As such, disease knowledge is biased toward species frequently housed in zoos and aquaria, those that strand more commonly, or those in which free-ranging populations are more easily accessible. Though historically systematic evaluations of wild populations have rarely been accomplished, in the past 10 years, with advances in marine mammal medicine and anesthesia, biologists and veterinarians more frequently completed live animal health field investigations to evaluate health and disease in free-ranging pinniped populations.
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Abstract
Omics technologies have been developed in recent decades and applied to different subjects, although the greatest advancements have been achieved in human biology and disease. Genome sequencing and the exploration of its coding and noncoding regions are rapidly yielding meaningful answers to diverse questions, relating genome information to protein activity to environmental changes. In the past, marine mammal genetic and transcriptional studies have been restricted due to the lack of reference genomes. But the advance of high-throughput sequencing is revolutionizing the life sciences technologies. As long-lived organisms, at the top of the food chain, marine mammals play an important role in marine ecosystems and while their protected status is in favor of conservation of the species, it also complicates the researcher's approach to traditional measurements of health. Omics data generated by high-throughput technologies will represent an important key for improving the scientific basis for understanding both marine mammal and environment health.
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Elnaggar MM, Abdellrazeq GS, Venn-Watson SK, Jensen ED, Hulubei V, Fry LM, Sacco RE, Davis WC. Identification of monoclonal antibodies cross-reactive with bottlenose dolphin orthologues of the major histocompatibility complex and leukocyte differentiation molecules. Vet Immunol Immunopathol 2017; 192:54-59. [DOI: 10.1016/j.vetimm.2017.09.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2017] [Revised: 09/08/2017] [Accepted: 09/30/2017] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
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Erwin PM, Rhodes RG, Kiser KB, Keenan-Bateman TF, McLellan WA, Pabst DA. High diversity and unique composition of gut microbiomes in pygmy (Kogia breviceps) and dwarf (K. sima) sperm whales. Sci Rep 2017; 7:7205. [PMID: 28775301 PMCID: PMC5543158 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-07425-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2017] [Accepted: 06/28/2017] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Mammals host diverse bacterial and archaeal symbiont communities (i.e. microbiomes) that play important roles in digestive and immune system functioning, yet cetacean microbiomes remain largely unexplored, in part due to sample collection difficulties. Here, fecal samples from stranded pygmy (Kogia breviceps) and dwarf (K. sima) sperm whales were used to characterize the gut microbiomes of two closely-related species with similar diets. 16S rRNA gene sequencing revealed diverse microbial communities in kogiid whales dominated by Firmicutes and Bacteroidetes. Core symbiont taxa were affiliated with phylogenetic lineages capable of fermentative metabolism and sulfate respiration, indicating potential symbiont contributions to energy acquisition during prey digestion. The diversity and phylum-level composition of kogiid microbiomes differed from those previously reported in toothed whales, which exhibited low diversity communities dominated by Proteobacteria and Actinobacteria. Community structure analyses revealed distinct gut microbiomes in K. breviceps and K. sima, driven by differential relative abundances of shared taxa, and unique microbiomes in kogiid hosts compared to other toothed and baleen whales, driven by differences in symbiont membership. These results provide insight into the diversity, composition and structure of kogiid gut microbiomes and indicate that host identity plays an important role in structuring cetacean microbiomes, even at fine-scale taxonomic levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrick M Erwin
- Department of Biology and Marine Biology, Center for Marine Science, University of North Carolina Wilmington, Wilmington, NC, 28409, USA.
| | - Ryan G Rhodes
- Department of Biology and Marine Biology, Center for Marine Science, University of North Carolina Wilmington, Wilmington, NC, 28409, USA
| | - Kevin B Kiser
- Department of Biology and Marine Biology, Center for Marine Science, University of North Carolina Wilmington, Wilmington, NC, 28409, USA
| | - Tiffany F Keenan-Bateman
- Department of Biology and Marine Biology, Center for Marine Science, University of North Carolina Wilmington, Wilmington, NC, 28409, USA
| | - William A McLellan
- Department of Biology and Marine Biology, Center for Marine Science, University of North Carolina Wilmington, Wilmington, NC, 28409, USA
| | - D Ann Pabst
- Department of Biology and Marine Biology, Center for Marine Science, University of North Carolina Wilmington, Wilmington, NC, 28409, USA
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Respiratory Microbiome of Endangered Southern Resident Killer Whales and Microbiota of Surrounding Sea Surface Microlayer in the Eastern North Pacific. Sci Rep 2017; 7:394. [PMID: 28341851 PMCID: PMC5428453 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-00457-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2016] [Accepted: 02/27/2017] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
In the Salish Sea, the endangered Southern Resident Killer Whale (SRKW) is a high trophic indicator of ecosystem health. Three major threats have been identified for this population: reduced prey availability, anthropogenic contaminants, and marine vessel disturbances. These perturbations can culminate in significant morbidity and mortality, usually associated with secondary infections that have a predilection to the respiratory system. To characterize the composition of the respiratory microbiota and identify recognized pathogens of SRKW, exhaled breath samples were collected between 2006–2009 and analyzed for bacteria, fungi and viruses using (1) culture-dependent, targeted PCR-based methodologies and (2) taxonomically broad, non-culture dependent PCR-based methodologies. Results were compared with sea surface microlayer (SML) samples to characterize the respective microbial constituents. An array of bacteria and fungi in breath and SML samples were identified, as well as microorganisms that exhibited resistance to multiple antimicrobial agents. The SML microbes and respiratory microbiota carry a pathogenic risk which we propose as an additional, fourth putative stressor (pathogens), which may adversely impact the endangered SRKW population.
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