1
|
Leptospira interrogans Serovar Icterohaemorrhagiae Failed to Establish Distinct Infection in Naïve Gilts: Lessons Learned from a Preliminary Experimental Challenge. Pathogens 2023; 12:pathogens12010135. [PMID: 36678483 PMCID: PMC9867409 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens12010135] [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: 12/23/2022] [Revised: 01/09/2023] [Accepted: 01/10/2023] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Leptospira is a pathogen involved in fertility problems in pigs. Nevertheless, little information is available on pathogenicity, transmission, tissue tropism, and immune response. The objective of this preliminary study was to induce a diagnostically detectable infection in naïve gilts using Leptospira interrogans serovar Icterohaemorrhagiae to gain the knowledge required for designing a large-scale trial. Eight seronegative fertile gilts were divided into three groups: control (n = 2), challenge (n = 3; 10 mL of 108 leptospires/mL intravenously), and contact (n = 3). A daily clinical examination and periodic sampling of blood, urine, and vaginal swabs were performed until four weeks after infection when necropsy was undertaken. Seroconversion of infected animals was detected first by a microscopic agglutination test (MAT) between four and seven days after inoculation. No clinical signs were observed except pyrexia. Laboratory data primarily remained within reference intervals. Leptospira were undetectable in all groups by real-time PCR (sera, urine, vaginal swabs, and tissue samples) and bacterial culture (urine and tissue samples). However, histologic evidence for tubulo-interstitial nephritis could be found. Based on the study results and limitations, questions to be solved and approaches to be reconsidered are raised for the conduction of further experimental studies to understand the pathogenesis and the role of Icterohaemorrhagiae in pig health.
Collapse
|
2
|
Bolwell C, Gee E, Adams B, Collins-Emerson J, Scarfe K, Nisa S, Gordon E, Rogers C, Benschop J. Longitudinal Testing of Leptospira Antibodies in Horses Located near a Leptospirosis Outbreak in Alpacas. Vet Sci 2022; 9:vetsci9080426. [PMID: 36006341 PMCID: PMC9414811 DOI: 10.3390/vetsci9080426] [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: 06/09/2022] [Revised: 07/25/2022] [Accepted: 08/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary The objective of this study was to look at antibodies in repeated blood samples from horses kept near, or on, a farm where Leptospirosis was diagnosed in a herd of alpacas, resulting in kidney disease and abortion in the alpacas. Blood samples from horses in New Zealand have previously shown approximately 25% have antibodies to Leptospira, although there are few reports of clinical disease. Seven of twelve horses had positive antibody results during the current study, and two horses had high concentrations of antibodies in their blood together with evidence of leptospires in their urine. These results suggest the two horses could have been actively infected with Leptospira, and potentially be at risk of transmitting the disease to humans and other animals on the property. It was not able to be determined if there was a direct association between the positive horses in this study and the outbreak in alpacas. Potentially, there could have been a common exposure for both horses and alpacas, or one group may have infected the other. The potential risk of horses shedding leptospires that could infect humans, or other species, should not be overlooked in New Zealand. Abstract The objectives of this study were to determine if horses located near an outbreak of leptospirosis in alpacas had Leptospira titres indicative of a previous or current infection and, if so, to determine the magnitude in change of titres over time. Further, the objective was to determine if horses with high titre results were shedding Leptospira in their urine. Blood samples were collected from twelve horses located on or next to the farm with the outbreak in alpacas, on day zero and at four subsequent time points (two, four, six and nine weeks). The microscopic agglutination test was used to test sera for five serovars endemic in New Zealand: Ballum, Copenhageni, Hardjo, Pomona and Tarassovi. A reciprocal MAT titre cut-off of ≥1:100 was used to determine positive horses. Seven out of twelve horses (58%) were positive to at least one serovar during one of the time points. Two horses recorded titres of ≥1600, one for both Pomona and Copenhageni and the other for Hardjo, and these two horses were both PCR positive for Leptospira in their urine samples. For five out of seven horses, the titres either remained the same or changed by one dilution across the sampling time points. The study confirmed endemic exposure to five endemic Leptospira serovars in New Zealand in a group of horses located near a confirmed leptospirosis outbreak in alpacas.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Charlotte Bolwell
- School of Veterinary Science, Massey University, Palmerston North 4442, New Zealand
- Correspondence:
| | - Erica Gee
- School of Veterinary Science, Massey University, Palmerston North 4442, New Zealand
| | - Brooke Adams
- School of Veterinary Science, Massey University, Palmerston North 4442, New Zealand
| | | | - Katherine Scarfe
- IDEXX Laboratories (NZ) ULC, School of Veterinary Science Complex, Massey University, Palmerston North 4442, New Zealand
| | - Shahista Nisa
- School of Veterinary Science, Massey University, Palmerston North 4442, New Zealand
| | - Emma Gordon
- School of Veterinary Science, Massey University, Palmerston North 4442, New Zealand
| | - Chris Rogers
- School of Veterinary Science, Massey University, Palmerston North 4442, New Zealand
- School of Agriculture and Environment, Massey University, Palmerston North 4442, New Zealand
| | - Jackie Benschop
- School of Veterinary Science, Massey University, Palmerston North 4442, New Zealand
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Himebaugh NE, Gilger BC. Role of
Leptospira
spp. testing and ocular examination in horses with equine recurrent uveitis: A retrospective study of 63 horses. EQUINE VET EDUC 2021. [DOI: 10.1111/eve.13543] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- N. E. Himebaugh
- Department of Clinical Sciences College of Veterinary Medicine North Carolina State University Raleigh North Carolina USA
| | - B. C. Gilger
- Department of Clinical Sciences College of Veterinary Medicine North Carolina State University Raleigh North Carolina USA
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Zilch TJ, Lee JJ, Saleem MZ, Zhang H, Cortese V, Voris N, McDonough SP, Divers TJ, Chang YF. Equine leptospirosis: Experimental challenge of Leptospira interrogans serovar Bratislava fails to establish infection in naïve horses. Equine Vet J 2021; 53:845-854. [PMID: 33617667 DOI: 10.1111/evj.13442] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2020] [Revised: 02/16/2021] [Accepted: 02/18/2021] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Little information is available about experimental inoculation of leptospirosis in horses and the pathogenicity of Leptospira interrogans serovar Bratislava in this host. OBJECTIVES To determine the serological, clinical, pathological and haematological responses of horses to L. interrogans serovar Bratislava strain PigK151. STUDY DESIGN Randomised controlled in vivo experiment. METHODS Ten seronegative female foals were divided into 2 groups, control (n = 4) and challenged (n = 6). The challenged group received 1 × 109 leptospires divided equally between topical ocular and intraperitoneal injections. Blood and urine samples were analysed. The temperature was recorded daily for the first 9 days, then weekly. Sera were tested by microscopic agglutination test (MAT). Automated complete blood count, differential and chemistry panel were performed. Histopathological analysis was performed on sections of liver, kidney, urinary bladder, uterine body and pineal gland. Sample culturing was performed from blood, urine, liver, kidney, reproductive tract and vitreous humour. RESULTS No pyrexia was noted. PCR and culture were negative from all samples. Differences between groups were found in CBC, differential counts and serum biochemistry panel (or profile), suggesting that leptospiral challenge triggered an inflammatory response. No evidence of leptospirosis was found from histopathological analysis. All challenged foals developed a humoral response. The MAT allowed the confirmation of the infecting serovar at a later stage, but it also revealed cross-reactive results that were further explained by genomic analysis. MAIN LIMITATIONS This experimental challenge had two main limitations: (a) the results might have varied if another strain from the same serovar had been used and (b) the use of another route of infection and a higher bacterial dose might have achieved colonisation. CONCLUSIONS Based on these findings, it may suggest that L. interrogans serovar Bratislava is neither pathogenic nor host-adapted serovar for horses, although these results might have varied if another strain from the same serovar had been used instead.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tiago J Zilch
- Department of Population Medicine and Diagnostic Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, USA
| | - Jen-Jie Lee
- Department of Population Medicine and Diagnostic Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, USA
| | - Muhammad Zain Saleem
- Department of Population Medicine and Diagnostic Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, USA
| | - Hui Zhang
- Department of Population Medicine and Diagnostic Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, USA.,College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guanfzhou, China
| | | | | | - Sean P McDonough
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, USA
| | - Thomas J Divers
- Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, USA
| | - Yung-Fu Chang
- Department of Population Medicine and Diagnostic Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, USA
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Fagre AC, Mayo CE, Pabilonia KL, Landolt GA. Seroprevalence of Leptospira spp. in Colorado equids and association with clinical disease. J Vet Diagn Invest 2020; 32:718-721. [PMID: 32715980 DOI: 10.1177/1040638720943155] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Detection of Leptospira interrogans is difficult as a result of intermittent leptospiruria and brief leptospiremia. Hence, diagnosis relies heavily on serologic testing, the reference method of which is the microscopic agglutination test (MAT). In horses, clinical leptospirosis has been associated with abortion, recurrent uveitis, and sporadic cases of hepatic and renal disease. Little information exists on the seroprevalence of antibodies to L. interrogans in equids in the United States; past nationwide studies suggest that the seroprevalence in some areas is as high as 77% (reciprocal titer ≥ 100). We tested sera from 124 apparently healthy horses previously submitted for equine infectious anemia (EIA) serology using MAT for 6 serovars-Bratislava, Canicola, Grippotyphosa, Hardjo, Icterohaemorrhagiae, and Pomona. When using a reciprocal MAT titer cutoff of ≥ 100, 102 of 124 (82%) of the samples were positive for at least one serovar. Seropositivity was significantly associated with increasing age. Query of specimens from clinical cases submitted to the Colorado State University Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory for MAT since 2010 indicated significantly greater seroprevalence (p = 0.015) of pathogenic serovar Pomona in clinical cases compared to sera submitted from healthy equids for routine EIA testing. Information from our diagnostic laboratory submission forms also suggests a correlation between uveitis or other ophthalmic problems and serovar Pomona.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anna C Fagre
- Departments of Microbiology, Immunology, and Pathology (Fagre, Mayo, Pabilonia) and Clinical Sciences (Landolt), College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO
| | - Christie E Mayo
- Departments of Microbiology, Immunology, and Pathology (Fagre, Mayo, Pabilonia) and Clinical Sciences (Landolt), College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO
| | - Kristy L Pabilonia
- Departments of Microbiology, Immunology, and Pathology (Fagre, Mayo, Pabilonia) and Clinical Sciences (Landolt), College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO
| | - Gabriele A Landolt
- Departments of Microbiology, Immunology, and Pathology (Fagre, Mayo, Pabilonia) and Clinical Sciences (Landolt), College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Voelter K, Vial Z, Pot SA, Spiess BM. Leptospiral antibody prevalence and surgical treatment outcome in horses with Equine Recurrent Uveitis (ERU) in Switzerland. Vet Ophthalmol 2020; 23:648-658. [PMID: 32352624 DOI: 10.1111/vop.12767] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2019] [Revised: 03/30/2020] [Accepted: 03/30/2020] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate leptospiral antibody prevalence in 65 horses with ERU and compare outcome in 36 surgically treated eyes (2010-2015). PROCEDURES Retrospective data analysis of horses with ERU (n = 65). C-value calculation with microagglutination assay titer (MAT) results for Leptospira spp. Evaluation of follow-up data after pars plana vitrectomy (PPV, n = 21 eyes) and suprachoroidal cyclosporine device implantation (SCDI, n = 15 eyes). Differences between groups were statistically analyzed using Fishers exact test, significance set at P < .05. RESULTS Positive leptospiral titers were found in 28/65 blood, 31/65 aqueous humor (AH), and 19/20 vitreal (post-PPV) samples. The most common intraocular serovars were Leptospira interrogans grippotyphosa, pomona, and bratislava. Intraocular antibody production was suspected in samples of 22 horses (c-values > 1). Mean follow-up of surgical cases was 3.8 years (PPV) and 3.4 years (SCDI). PPV was performed in 21 eyes with positive, SCDI in 15 eyes with negative leptospiral test results. Uveitis recurred less often after PPV (2/21) compared to SCDI (6/15, P = .04). Retinal detachment occurred after PPV only (5/21, SCDI 0/15, P = .06), whereas only SCDI-treated eyes were enucleated (PPV 0/21, SCDI 3/15, P = .06). Blindness or visual impairment was equally likely to occur in both treatment groups after surgery (PPV 7/21, SCDI 7/15, P = .5). CONCLUSIONS Leptospiral antibody prevalence is high in horses with ERU in Switzerland. Recurrence of uveitis is uncommon following PPV in the present study; an increased risk of retinal detachment exists. Enucleation is more often warranted in horses after SCDI in this study due to a higher uveitis recurrence.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Katrin Voelter
- Veterinary Ophthalmology, Equine Clinic, Vetsuisse Faculty Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Zoe Vial
- Veterinary Ophthalmology, Equine Clinic, Vetsuisse Faculty Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Simon A Pot
- Veterinary Ophthalmology, Equine Clinic, Vetsuisse Faculty Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | | |
Collapse
|
7
|
Divers TJ, Chang YF, Irby NL, Smith JL, Carter CN. Leptospirosis: An important infectious disease in North American horses. Equine Vet J 2019; 51:287-292. [PMID: 30629756 DOI: 10.1111/evj.13069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2018] [Accepted: 12/30/2018] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
North American horses are commonly exposed to Leptospira organisms. Leptospira Bratislava is the most common infecting serovar but this serovar has not been confirmed to cause clinical disease in North American horses. Leptospira Pomona type kennewicki is responsible for most of the clinical diseases (leptospirosis) in North American horses. Leptospirosis is most commonly associated with diseases of the placenta and fetus, the kidneys and the eyes in horses. In-utero infections in pregnant mares may result in abortion, neonatal illness or birth of an antibody positive healthy foal. Acute renal failure in younger horses and recurrent uveitis in adult horses are other well documented clinical syndromes of leptospirosis. Abortions, neonatal disease and acute renal failure are caused by a subacute infection, while horses with Leptospira associated recurrent uveitis develop ocular disease months or years after the initial Leptospira infection. Diagnosis of Leptospirosis is made by a combination of antigen or antibody testing methods. Mares that abort following Leptospira infection have no additional clinical signs at the time of abortion but may shed the offending Leptospira spp. in the urine for several weeks. Antibiotic treatments are sometimes used in hopes of decreasing Leptospira shedding in infected horses or prophylactically in exposed pregnant mares but documentation of efficacy is lacking. Horses with Leptospira - associated acute renal failure can be successfully treated with antibiotics and supportive care. Recurrent uveitis is commonly associated with leptospirosis in North American horses and although horses may have chronic intraocular infection triggering an immune disease, systemic antimicrobial therapy has not been effective in eliminating the organism from the eye. An equine approved Leptospira Pomona type kennewicki vaccine is now available in North America.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- T J Divers
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York, USA
| | - Y-F Chang
- Department of Population Medicine and Diagnostic Sciences, Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York, USA
| | - N L Irby
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York, USA
| | - J L Smith
- Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky, USA
| | - C N Carter
- Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky, USA
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Malalana F, Blundell RJ, Pinchbeck GL, Mcgowan CM. The role of Leptospira spp. in horses affected with recurrent uveitis in the UK. Equine Vet J 2017; 49:706-709. [PMID: 28321895 PMCID: PMC5655720 DOI: 10.1111/evj.12683] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2016] [Accepted: 03/14/2017] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Equine recurrent uveitis (ERU) is a common cause of ocular pain and blindness in horses. Leptospira spp. have been commonly implicated in the pathophysiology of ERU in mainland Europe and the USA. No recent studies have been carried out in the UK, but Leptospira is reported not to be a major factor in the aetiology of ERU in the UK. OBJECTIVES To establish the prevalence of Leptospira-associated ERU in the UK and to identify the serovars involved in these cases; to compare serum vs. aqueous humour antibody levels in cases and controls in order to confirm the diagnosis of Leptospira-associated ERU, and to assess the usefulness of serology alone as a confirmatory test for Leptospira-associated ERU in the UK. STUDY DESIGN Case-control study. METHODS Eyes enucleated for clinical reasons in ERU-affected horses were collected. Blood and aqueous humour were obtained to determine antibody levels against a variety of Leptospira serovars and C-values (aqueous humour value/serum value) were calculated. In addition, eyes, blood and aqueous humour were obtained from control cases for comparison. Histopathology was performed in all eyes to confirm uveitis in each case. Differences in seroprevalences between ERU and control cases and between Leptospira- and non-Leptospira-associated ERU cases were calculated. RESULTS A total of 30 ERU and 43 control eyes were analysed. Of the ERU eyes, only two had a C-value of >4 (prevalence of Leptospira-associated uveitis: 6.7%). Serovars hardjo and javanica were detected. There was no difference in seroprevalence between horses with uveitis and control cases (65.5% and 41.9%, respectively; P = 0.11) or between Leptospira- and non-Leptospira-associated uveitis cases (100% and 63.0%, respectively; P = 0.52). MAIN LIMITATIONS The study was limited by low case numbers. Eyes were presented at different stages of disease. The only test used to detect Leptospira was the microscopic agglutination test. CONCLUSIONS Leptospira-associated ERU is uncommon in the UK. Serology alone may not help to definitively diagnose Leptospira-associated uveitis in this country.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- F. Malalana
- School of Veterinary Science, University of LiverpoolNestonUK
| | - R. J. Blundell
- School of Veterinary Science, University of LiverpoolNestonUK
| | - G. L. Pinchbeck
- Institute of Infection and Global HealthSchool of Veterinary Science, University of LiverpoolNestonUK
| | - C. M. Mcgowan
- Institute of Ageing and Chronic DiseaseSchool of Veterinary Science, University of LiverpoolNestonUK
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Delph KM, Sharpe E, Beard LA, Rankin AJ. Haemolytic anaemia and bilateral uveitis associated with leptospirosis in a 6‐year‐old Quarter Horse gelding. EQUINE VET EDUC 2016. [DOI: 10.1111/eve.12686] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- K. M. Delph
- Department of Clinical Sciences Kansas State University Manhattan Kansas USA
| | - E. Sharpe
- Department of Clinical Sciences Kansas State University Manhattan Kansas USA
| | - L. A. Beard
- Department of Clinical Sciences Kansas State University Manhattan Kansas USA
| | - A. J. Rankin
- Department of Ophthalmology Kansas State University Manhattan Kansas USA
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Simbizi V, Saulez MN, Potts A, Lötter C, Gummow B. A study of leptospirosis in South African horses and associated risk factors. Prev Vet Med 2016; 134:6-15. [PMID: 27836047 DOI: 10.1016/j.prevetmed.2016.09.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2016] [Revised: 09/16/2016] [Accepted: 09/23/2016] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Most leptospiral infections in horses are asymptomatic; however, acute disease manifestations as well as reproductive failure and recurrent uveitis have been reported. In South Africa, the epidemiology of the disease in horses is not well documented. A serosurvey to determine what serovars were present in horses from Gauteng, KwaZulu-Natal and Western Cape Provinces and to get an estimate of the seroprevalence of leptospirosis was carried out from January 2013 until April 2014 with the assistance of four large equine hospitals located in these provinces. Furthermore, associations between potential risk factors and both seropositive horses to the predominant serovar Bratislava and to Leptospira spp. were statistically evaluated using univariate analysis and multivariable logistic regression models. A total of 663 horse sera were collected and tested against a panel of 24 leptospiral serovars using the microscopic agglutination test. The most predominant serovars in Gauteng were Bratislava [32%, 95% CI: 29-35%]; Djasiman [10.4%, 95% CI: 8-12%] and Arborea [8.9%, 95% CI: 7-11%], in the Western Cape Province, Bratislava [27.35%, 95% CI: 23-32]; Djasiman [15.4%, 95% CI: 12-19%] and Arborea [14.5%, 95% CI: 11-18%] and in KwaZulu-Natal, Bratislava [39.4%, 95% CI: 34-44%]; Arborea [9.6%, 95% CI: 7-13%]; and Tarassovi [7.7%, 95% CI: 5-10%] respectively. Twenty one serovars representing 17 serogroups were detected with serovar Bratislava being the most serodominant. The apparent prevalence to one or more serovars of Leptospira spp. at a serum dilution of 1:100 in Gauteng, KwaZulu-Natal and Western Cape Provinces were 49%; 37% and 32% respectively. The true prevalence was calculated for each province taking into account the clustering effect during the sampling and was found to be between 24 and 74% in Gauteng; 26-39% in the Western Cape and 20-54% in KwaZulu-Natal. Nooitgedacht (South African horse breed) horses were found to be at greater risk of being seropositive to both serovar Bratislava (OR=5.08) and Leptospira spp. (OR=6.3). Similarly, horses residing on properties with forestry in the vicinity were found to be at greater risk of being seropositive to both serovar Bratislava (OR=9.3) and Leptospira spp. (OR=5.2). This study has shown that a high proportion of horses in South Africa are exposed to a wide range of serovars, inferring a complex epidemiology. It also describes for the first time new serovars of Leptospira in South African horses that have not previously been reported.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- V Simbizi
- State Veterinary Services, Department of Rural Development and Agrarian Reform, Lady Frere, South Africa; Department of Production Animal Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - M N Saulez
- Winelands Equine Vet, Stellenbosch, South Africa
| | - A Potts
- Bacterial Serology Laboratory: ARC-Onderstepoort Veterinary Institute, Onderstepoort, South Africa
| | - C Lötter
- Bacterial Serology Laboratory: ARC-Onderstepoort Veterinary Institute, Onderstepoort, South Africa
| | - B Gummow
- Discipline of Veterinary Sciences, College of Public Health, Medical and Veterinary Sciences, James Cook University, Townsville 4811, Queensland, Australia; Department of Production Animal Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa.
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Tsegay K, Potts AD, Aklilu N, Lötter C, Gummow B. Circulating serovars of Leptospira in cart horses of central and southern Ethiopia and associated risk factors. Prev Vet Med 2016; 125:106-15. [PMID: 26809943 DOI: 10.1016/j.prevetmed.2016.01.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2015] [Revised: 01/03/2016] [Accepted: 01/05/2016] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Little work has been done on diseases of horses in Ethiopia or tropical regions of the world. Yet, Ethiopia has the largest horse population in Africa and their horses play a pivotal role in their economy as traction animals. A serological and questionnaire survey was therefore conducted to determine the circulating serovars of Leptospira and their association with potential risk factors in the cart horse population of Central and Southern Ethiopia. A total of 184 out of 418 cart horses from 13 districts had antibody titres of 1:100 or greater to at least one of 16 serovars of Leptospira species in Central and Southern Ethiopian horses. A significantly higher seropositivity (62.1%) was noted in horses from the highland agroecology followed by midland (44.4%) and lowland (39.8%). Serovar Bratislava (34.5%) was the predominant serovar followed by serovars Djasiman (9.8%), Topaz (5.98%) and Pomona (5.3%). Age and location proved to be associated with seropositive horses with older horses being more commonly affected and the districts of Ziway (Batu) (Apparent Prevalence (AP)=65.5%), Shashemene (AP=48.3%) and Sebeta (AP=41.4%) having the highest prevalence. Multivariable logistic regression found risk factors significantly associated with Leptospira seropositive horses were drinking river water (OR=2.8) and horses 7-12 years old (OR=5) and risk factors specifically associated with serovar Bratislava seropositive horses were drinking river water (OR=2.5), horses ≥13 years (OR=3.5) and the presence of dogs in adjacent neighbouring properties (OR=0.3). Dogs had a protective effect against seropositivity to serovars Bratislava and Djasiman, which may be due to their ability to control rodents. The high seroprevalence confirm that leptospirosis is endemic among horses of Central and Southern Ethiopia. The predominance of serovar Bratislava supports the idea that serovar Bratislava may be adapted to and maintained by the horse population of Central and Southern Ethiopia. This study emphasizes the need for further countrywide serological surveys and isolation of circulating leptospires in animals and humans in order to understand the role of horses in the epidemiology of this disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- K Tsegay
- Discipline of Veterinary Science, James Cook University, Townsville, Queensland, 4811, Australia
| | - A D Potts
- Agricultural Research Council, Onderstepoort Veterinary Institute, Private Bag X05, Onderstepoort, South Africa
| | - N Aklilu
- Society for the Protection of Animals Abroad-Ethiopia project, College of Veterinary Medicine and Agriculture, Addis Ababa University, Bishoftu, Ethiopia
| | - C Lötter
- Agricultural Research Council, Onderstepoort Veterinary Institute, Private Bag X05, Onderstepoort, South Africa
| | - B Gummow
- Discipline of Veterinary Science, James Cook University, Townsville, Queensland, 4811, Australia; Department of Production Animal Studies, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa.
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Malalana F, Stylianides A, McGowan C. Equine recurrent uveitis: Human and equine perspectives. Vet J 2015; 206:22-9. [PMID: 26188862 DOI: 10.1016/j.tvjl.2015.06.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2014] [Revised: 06/22/2015] [Accepted: 06/30/2015] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Equine recurrent uveitis (ERU) is a spontaneous disease characterised by repeated episodes of intraocular inflammation. The epidemiology of ERU has not been fully elucidated, but the condition appears to be much more common in horses than is recurrent uveitis in humans, especially in certain breeds and geographical regions. Both humans and horses show a similarly altered immune response and a marked autoimmune response as the primary disease pathophysiology. However, an inciting cause is not always clear. Potential inciting factors in horses include microbial agents such as Leptospira spp. Microbial factors and genetic predisposition to the disease may provide clues as to why the horse appears so susceptible to this disease. The aim of this review is to discuss the immunology and genetics of ERU, compare the disease in horses with autoimmune anterior uveitis in humans, and discuss potential reasons for the increased prevalence in the horse.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fernando Malalana
- The Philip Leverhulme Equine Hospital, The University of Liverpool, Leahurst Campus, Neston, Wirral, CH64 7TE, UK.
| | - Amira Stylianides
- St. Paul's Eye Unit, Royal Liverpool University Hospital, Prescot Street, Liverpool, L7 8XP, UK
| | - Catherine McGowan
- Department of Musculoskeletal Biology, Institute of Ageing and Chronic disease, The University of Liverpool, Leahurst Campus, Neston, Wirral, CH64 7TE, UK
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Finger MA, de Barros Filho IR, Leutenegger C, Estrada M, Ullmann LS, Langoni H, Kikuti M, Dornbush PT, Deconto I, Biondo AW. Serological and molecular survey of Leptospira spp. among cart horses from an endemic area of human leptospirosis in Curitiba, southern Brazil. Rev Inst Med Trop Sao Paulo 2015; 56:473-6. [PMID: 25351539 PMCID: PMC4296865 DOI: 10.1590/s0036-46652014000600003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2013] [Accepted: 04/01/2014] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Cart horses are a re-emerging population
employed to carry recyclable material in cities. Methods: Sixty-two horses were sampled in an endemic area
of human leptospirosis. The microscopic agglutination test (MAT) and
real-time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) were performed. Results: A seropositivity of 75.8% with serovar
Icterohaemorrhagiae in 80.8% of the horses was observed. Blood and urine
were qPCR negative. MAT showed positive correlations with rainfall
(p = 0.02) and flooding
(p = 0.03). Conclusions: Although horses may be constantly exposed to
Leptospira spp. in the environment mostly because of
rainfall and flooding, no leptospiremia or leptospiruria were observed in this
study.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mariane Angélica Finger
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Federal University of Paraná (UFPR), Curitiba, PR, Brazil
| | | | | | - Marko Estrada
- Real Time PCR Core Facility, Idexx Reference Laboratories, West Sacramento, CA, USA
| | - Leila Sabrina Ullmann
- Department of Veterinary Hygiene and Public Health, Veterinary School, São Paulo State University, Botucatu, SP, Brazil
| | - Hélio Langoni
- Department of Veterinary Hygiene and Public Health, Veterinary School, São Paulo State University, Botucatu, SP, Brazil
| | - Mariana Kikuti
- Department of Veterinary Hygiene and Public Health, Veterinary School, São Paulo State University, Botucatu, SP, Brazil
| | | | - Ivan Deconto
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Federal University of Paraná (UFPR), Curitiba, PR, Brazil
| | - Alexander Welker Biondo
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Federal University of Paraná (UFPR), Curitiba, PR, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Evaluación serológica a Leptospira spp. en equinos aparentemente sanos en municipios del Meta y Guaviare, Colombia. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2015. [DOI: 10.22507/rli.v12n1a14] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
|
15
|
Pinna A, Martins G, Hamond C, Medeiros MA, de Souza GN, Lilenbaum W. Potential differences between Leptospira
serovars, host-adapted (Bratislava) and incidental (Copenhageni), in determining reproductive disorders in embryo transfer recipient mares in Brazil. Vet Rec 2014; 174:531. [DOI: 10.1136/vr.101444] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- A. Pinna
- Laboratory of Veterinary Bacteriology; Universidade Federal Fluminense; Niterói RJ 24210-130 Brazil
| | - G. Martins
- Laboratory of Veterinary Bacteriology; Universidade Federal Fluminense; Niterói RJ 24210-130 Brazil
| | - C. Hamond
- Laboratory of Veterinary Bacteriology; Universidade Federal Fluminense; Niterói RJ 24210-130 Brazil
| | - M. A. Medeiros
- Bio-Manguinhos; Oswaldo Cruz Foundation; Brazilian Ministry of Health; Rio de Janeiro RJ 21040-360 Brazil
| | | | - W. Lilenbaum
- Laboratory of Veterinary Bacteriology; Universidade Federal Fluminense; Niterói RJ 24210-130 Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Erol E, Jackson CB, Steinman M, Meares K, Donahoe J, Kelly N, Locke S, Smith JL, Carter CN. A diagnostic evaluation of real-time PCR, fluorescent antibody and microscopic agglutination tests in cases of equine leptospiral abortion. Equine Vet J 2014; 47:171-4. [DOI: 10.1111/evj.12281] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2013] [Accepted: 04/09/2014] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- E. Erol
- Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory; University of Kentucky; Lexington USA
| | - C. B. Jackson
- Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory; University of Kentucky; Lexington USA
| | - M. Steinman
- Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory; University of Kentucky; Lexington USA
| | - K. Meares
- Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory; University of Kentucky; Lexington USA
| | - J. Donahoe
- Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory; University of Kentucky; Lexington USA
| | - N. Kelly
- Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory; University of Kentucky; Lexington USA
| | - S. Locke
- Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory; University of Kentucky; Lexington USA
| | - J. L. Smith
- Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory; University of Kentucky; Lexington USA
| | - C. N. Carter
- Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory; University of Kentucky; Lexington USA
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
de Oliveira Filho RB, Malta KC, Oliveira JM, Assis Santana VL, Harrop MH, Stipp DT, Pinheiro Júnior JW. Epidemiological Analysis of Leptospira spp. Infection in Equids from the Brejo Paraibano Microregion of Brazil. J Equine Vet Sci 2014. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jevs.2013.08.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
|
18
|
Serodiagnosis of equine leptospirosis by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay using four recombinant protein markers. CLINICAL AND VACCINE IMMUNOLOGY : CVI 2014; 21:478-83. [PMID: 24451330 DOI: 10.1128/cvi.00649-13] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Leptospirosis, caused by Leptospira spp., is one of the most common zoonotic diseases in the world. We tested four recombinant proteins of Leptospira interrogans, namely, rLipL21, rLoa22, rLipL32, and rLigACon4-8, to evaluate their potential for use as antigens for the diagnosis of equine leptospirosis. We employed equine sera (n = 130) that were microscopic agglutination test (MAT) negative and sera (n = 176) that were MAT positive for the 5 serovars that most commonly cause equine leptospirosis. The sensitivity and specificity of ELISA compared to MAT were 82.39% and 86.15%, respectively, for LigACon4-8, 77.84% and 92.31%, respectively, for Loa22, 77.84% and 86.15%, respectively, for LipL32, and 84.66% and 83.85%, respectively, for LipL21. When one of the two antigens was test positive, the sensitivity and specificity of ELISA were 93.75% and 78.46%, respectively, for rLigACon4-8 and LipL32, 93.18% and 76.15%, respectively, for rLigACon4-8 and LipL21, 89.77% and 80.77%, respectively, for rLigACon4-8 and Loa22, 91.48% and 78.46%, respectively, for LipL21 and Loa22, 93.75% and 76.92%, respectively, for LipL21 and LipL32, and 90.34% and 80.77%, respectively, for Loa22 and LipL32. In conclusion, we have developed an indirect ELISA utilizing rLigACon4-8, rLoa22, rLipL32, and rLipL21 as diagnostic antigens for equine leptospirosis. The use of four antigens in the ELISA was found to be sensitive and specific, the assay was easy to perform, and the results concurred with the results of the standard Leptospira MAT.
Collapse
|
19
|
Hamond C, Pinna A, Martins G, Lilenbaum W. The role of leptospirosis in reproductive disorders in horses. Trop Anim Health Prod 2013; 46:1-10. [PMID: 23990441 DOI: 10.1007/s11250-013-0459-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/12/2013] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
Leptospirosis is a zoonotic disease of global importance and has a worldwide distribution. This infection displays clear seasonal nature in some regions of the tropics, where the rainy season is marked by high temperatures. Household and wild animals carry leptospires and contribute to their dissemination in nature. Transmission mainly occurs by contact with water contaminated with the urine of infected animals, and consequently, it is quite widespread especially in times of rain, since many areas are subject to flooding and have poor sanitation. Serological tests demonstrate that Leptospira sp. infection in horses occurs worldwide and that the predominant serovar may vary depending on the region or infection sources. Besides systemic and ocular manifestations, leptospirosis in horses has been recognized as an important disease of the reproductive system, since it leads to the birth of weak foals, stillbirths or neonatal mortality, and mainly to abortion, usually after the sixth month of pregnancy. In this context, this review aims to gather and discuss information about the role of leptospirosis in reproductive disorders in horses.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Camila Hamond
- Veterinary Bacteriology Laboratory,, Universidade Federal Fluminense,, Niterói, 24210-130, Brazil
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
20
|
Development of an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay using a recombinant LigA fragment comprising repeat domains 4 to 7.5 as an antigen for diagnosis of equine leptospirosis. CLINICAL AND VACCINE IMMUNOLOGY : CVI 2013; 20:1143-9. [PMID: 23720368 DOI: 10.1128/cvi.00245-13] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Leptospira immunoglobulin (Ig)-like (Lig) proteins are a novel family of surface-associated proteins in which the N-terminal 630 amino acids are conserved. In this study, we truncated the LigA conserved region into 7 fragments comprising the 1st to 3rd (LigACon1-3), 4th to 7.5th (LigACon4-7.5), 4th (LigACon4), 4.5th to 5.5th (LigACon4.5-5.5), 5.5th to 6.5th (LigACon5.5-6.5), 4th to 5th (LigACon4-5), and 6th to 7.5th (LigACon6-7.5) repeat domains. All 7 recombinant Lig proteins were screened using a slot-shaped dot blot assay for the diagnosis of equine leptospirosis. Our results showed that LigACon4-7.5 is the best candidate diagnostic antigen in a slot-shaped dot blot assay. LigACon4-7.5 was further evaluated as an indirect enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) antigen for the detection of Leptospira antibodies in equine sera. This assay was evaluated with equine sera (n = 60) that were microscopic agglutination test (MAT) negative and sera (n = 220) that were MAT positive to the 5 serovars that most commonly cause equine leptospirosis. The indirect ELISA results showed that at a single serum dilution of 1:250, the sensitivity and specificity of ELISA were 80.0% and 87.2%, respectively, compared to those of MAT. In conclusion, an indirect ELISA was developed utilizing a recombinant LigA fragment comprising the 4th to 7.5th repeat domain (LigACon4-7.5) as a diagnostic antigen for equine leptospirosis. This ELISA was found to be sensitive and specific, and it yielded results that concurred with those of the standard MAT.
Collapse
|
21
|
Hamond C, Martins G, Lilenbaum W. Pulmonary hemorrhage in horses seroreactive to leptospirosis in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. J Vet Intern Med 2013; 26:1237; author reply 1238. [PMID: 23167745 DOI: 10.1111/j.1939-1676.2012.01020.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
|
22
|
Arent ZJ, Kędzierska-Mieszkowska S. Seroprevalence study of leptospirosis in horses in northern Poland. Vet Rec 2013; 172:269. [PMID: 23362180 DOI: 10.1136/vr.101239] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Z J Arent
- OIE Leptospirosis Reference Laboratory, Veterinary Sciences Division, AFBI, Belfast, Northern Ireland BT4 3SD, UK.
| | | |
Collapse
|
23
|
Hamond C, Martins G, Lilenbaum W, Medeiros MA. PCR detection of leptospiral carriers among seronegative horses. Vet Rec 2012; 171:105-6. [DOI: 10.1136/vr.e5022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- C. Hamond
- Laboratory of Veterinary Bacteriology; Department of Microbiology and Parasitology; Universidade Federal Fluminense; 24210-130 Brazil
| | - G. Martins
- Laboratory of Veterinary Bacteriology; Department of Microbiology and Parasitology; Universidade Federal Fluminense; 24210-130 Brazil
| | - W. Lilenbaum
- Laboratory of Veterinary Bacteriology; Department of Microbiology and Parasitology; Universidade Federal Fluminense; 24210-130 Brazil
| | - M. A. Medeiros
- Bio-Manguinhos, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation; Brazilian Ministry of Health; Rio de Janeiro RJ 21040-360 Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Hamond C, Martins G, Lilenbaum W. Subclinical leptospirosis may impair athletic performance in racing horses. Trop Anim Health Prod 2012; 44:1927-30. [DOI: 10.1007/s11250-012-0158-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/11/2012] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
|
25
|
Zhang Y, Lou XL, Yang HL, Guo XK, Zhang XY, He P, Jiang XC. Establishment of a leptospirosis model in guinea pigs using an epicutaneous inoculations route. BMC Infect Dis 2012; 12:20. [PMID: 22273178 PMCID: PMC3329641 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2334-12-20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2011] [Accepted: 01/25/2012] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Leptospires are presumed to enter their host via small abrasions or breaches of the skin. The intraperitoneal route, although commonly used in guinea pig and hamster models of leptospirosis, does not reflect conditions encountered during natural infection. The aim of this study is to develop a novel leptospirosis guinea pig model through epicutaneous route and to elucidate the pathogenesis of leptospirosis in experimental guinea pigs by comparing the data from other studies using different infection routes. Methods The guinea pigs were inoculated with 5 × 108 Leptospira interrogans strain Lai onto either shaved-only or abraded skin. The guinea pigs were sacrificed at 2, 8, 24, 48, 72, 96 and 144 h post-infection (p.i.) followed by harvest of the lungs, liver, kidneys, spleen, and the skin around the inoculated sites for further examinations. Hematoxylin and eosin (HE) staining and electron microscopy were used to detect the pathologic changes. Real time PCR and immunohistochemistry staining were performed to detect dynamic distribution of leptospires in blood and tissues, respectively. Results In the guinea pigs with abraded skin inoculations, leptospires were detected in blood as early as 2 h post infection (p.i.) and then disseminated to the liver, lungs and kidneys of almost all animals within 96 h p.i.. Leptospires were also detected engulfed in the swelling vascular endothelial cells and were frequently aggregated around the capillaries in the dermis and subcutaneous tissue under the inoculated site. For the guinea pigs with abraded skin inoculations, hemorrhage at the dermis around the inoculated site was found before the appearance of internal organs hemorrhage, severe lesions such as hemorrhages in the lungs, nephritis, jaundice, haematuria were also observed, and two of seven guinea pigs died at 144 h p.i. while no lesions and leptospires were detected in the shaved-only guinea pigs using the same dose of strain Lai. Conclusion Intact keratinocyte layer is a very efficient barrier against leptospires, and intact skin can prevent the infiltration of leptosipres to the host. Leptospires can penetrate abraded skin and quickly establish a systemic infection by crossing tissue barriers. We have successfully established a novel leptospirosis guinea pig model through epicutaneous inoculations route, which replicates a natural course of infection and appears to be an alternative way to investigate the pathogenesis of leptospirosis, especially in terms of early stage of host-pathogen interactions. This novel model may also be advantageous for studies of the mechanisms involved in cutaneous barriers and epidermal interactions with this organism.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yan Zhang
- Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|