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Iype A, Ajith Kumar KG, Joy A, Sebasteena PF, Varghese A, Deepa CK, Chandy G, Ravindran R. Molecular characterisation of Amblyomma integrum circulating in southern India. Parasitol Int 2024; 101:102877. [PMID: 38438076 DOI: 10.1016/j.parint.2024.102877] [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: 10/10/2023] [Revised: 02/26/2024] [Accepted: 02/29/2024] [Indexed: 03/06/2024]
Abstract
Amblyomma integrum is a large gooseberry sized longirostrate tick (when fully repleted) found in India and Sri Lanka. In Kerala (India), this tick is commonly found in the forest and its fringe areas frequently infesting deer and hence it is locally known as "maan chellu / maanunny" (deer tick). In the present study, molecular characterisation and phylogenetic analysis of A. integrum collected from the area grazed by the sambar deer (Rusa unicolor) of Kerala, south India was performed using three molecular markers viz., the mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit 1 (COI), mitochondrial 16S ribosomal RNA, and nuclear 18S ribosomal RNA genes. Cytochrome c oxidase subunit 1 (COI) gene showed better resolving ability for elucidating the evolutionary relationship of A. integrum and identified two distinct clades, viz., A and B. The Tamil Nadu isolates of south India and Marayoor isolate 1 (from Idukki district of Kerala bordering with Tamil Nadu) belonged to clade A. Majority of Wayanad isolates from Kerala, occupied clade B. The intraspecific genetic distance among the A. integrum species ranged from 0.00 to 13.34%. Between clades A and B, the genetic distance observed was 11.49%. The clade B isolates were genetically close to A. geoemydae (GD: 1.22%). Morphological variations between the clades included darker exoskeletal coloration in clade A and distinct differences in the shape of basis capitulum. Further analysis using Assemble Species by Automatic Partitioning (ASAP) and Generalized Mixed Yule Coalescent (GMYC) provided additional insights. Assemble Species by Automatic Partitioning (ASAP) identified 26 Molecular Operational Taxonomic Units (MOTUs) at a threshold distance of 5.38%, supporting the species partition of A. integrum clade B. Generalized Mixed Yule Coalescent (GMYC) analysis retained the same species complex (A. integrum-geoemydae Complex) inferred from the ASAP analyses. It could be inferred from the present study that the A. integrum clades A and B could be two different putative pseudocryptic species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aleena Iype
- Department of Veterinary Parasitology, College of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Pookode, Kerala Veterinary and Animal Sciences University, Wayanad, Kerala 673576, India; Centre for Wildlife Studies, Kerala Veterinary and Animal Sciences University, Pookode, Wayanad, Kerala 673576, India
| | - Karapparambu Gopalan Ajith Kumar
- Department of Veterinary Parasitology, College of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Pookode, Kerala Veterinary and Animal Sciences University, Wayanad, Kerala 673576, India.
| | - Anisha Joy
- Department of Veterinary Parasitology, College of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Pookode, Kerala Veterinary and Animal Sciences University, Wayanad, Kerala 673576, India; Centre for Wildlife Studies, Kerala Veterinary and Animal Sciences University, Pookode, Wayanad, Kerala 673576, India
| | - Peekkunnel Francis Sebasteena
- Department of Veterinary Parasitology, College of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Pookode, Kerala Veterinary and Animal Sciences University, Wayanad, Kerala 673576, India; Centre for Wildlife Studies, Kerala Veterinary and Animal Sciences University, Pookode, Wayanad, Kerala 673576, India
| | - Anju Varghese
- Department of Veterinary Parasitology, College of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Pookode, Kerala Veterinary and Animal Sciences University, Wayanad, Kerala 673576, India
| | - Chundayil Kalarikkal Deepa
- Department of Veterinary Parasitology, College of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Pookode, Kerala Veterinary and Animal Sciences University, Wayanad, Kerala 673576, India
| | - George Chandy
- Centre for Wildlife Studies, Kerala Veterinary and Animal Sciences University, Pookode, Wayanad, Kerala 673576, India
| | - Reghu Ravindran
- Department of Veterinary Parasitology, College of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Pookode, Kerala Veterinary and Animal Sciences University, Wayanad, Kerala 673576, India.
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Chaorattanakawee S, Tachavarong W, Hananantachai H, Bunsermyos W, Chanarat N, Promsathaporn S, Tippayachai B, Sakolvaree J, Pitaksajjakul P, Benjathummarak S, Srinoppawan K, Saunders D, Lindroth EJ, Takhampunya R. Seasonal pattern of questing ticks and prevalence of pathogenic Rickettsia and Anaplasmataceae in Khao Yai national park, Thailand. Travel Med Infect Dis 2024; 58:102696. [PMID: 38360157 DOI: 10.1016/j.tmaid.2024.102696] [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: 10/12/2023] [Revised: 01/08/2024] [Accepted: 02/12/2024] [Indexed: 02/17/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Tick-borne diseases (TBD) are considered neglected diseases in Thailand with disease burden likely underestimated. To assess risk for emerging TBD in Thailand, the seasonality of questing tick and pathogen prevalence were studied in Khao Yai National Park, a top tourist destination. METHODS During 2019, questing ticks around tourist attractions were systematically collected bimonthly and analyzed for Rickettsia and Anaplasmataceae bacterial species by polymerase chain reaction and DNA sequencing. RESULTS Larvae and nymphs of questing ticks peaked in Khao Yai National Park during the late rainy-winter season, though no specific trends were observed in adult ticks. Winter (November to February) was the highest risk for human tick-bites due to higher numbers of both ticks and visitors. Of the total 5916 ticks analyzed (651 pools), Anaplasma phagocytophilum, Neoehrlichia mikurensis, Ehrlichia ewingii, and Ehrlichia chaffeensis were detected at low rates (≤0.05%). There was a higher prevalence of human rickettsioses (0.2-7%) in ticks surveyed with Rickettsia tamurae, Rickettsia raoultii, and Rickettsia montana the major species. Amblyomma ticks had the highest prevalence of Rickettsia (85%, 35/44 Amblyomma adults), in which only R. tamurae and R. raoultii were found in Amblyomma with mixed species infections common. We report the first detection of R. africae-like and N. mikurensis in Ixodes granulatus adults in Thailand, suggesting I. granulatus as a potential vector for these pathogens. CONCLUSION This study demonstrated the risk of emerging TBD in Thailand and underscores the need for tick-bite prevention among tourists in Thailand.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suwanna Chaorattanakawee
- Department of Parasitology and Entomology, Faculty of Public Health, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand.
| | - Wirunya Tachavarong
- Department of Parasitology and Entomology, Faculty of Public Health, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Hathairad Hananantachai
- Department of Parasitology and Entomology, Faculty of Public Health, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Watanyu Bunsermyos
- Department of Parasitology and Entomology, Faculty of Public Health, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Nitima Chanarat
- Department of Entomology, Armed Forces Research Institute of Medical Sciences-United States Army Medical Directorate, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Sommai Promsathaporn
- Department of Entomology, Armed Forces Research Institute of Medical Sciences-United States Army Medical Directorate, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Bousaraporn Tippayachai
- Department of Entomology, Armed Forces Research Institute of Medical Sciences-United States Army Medical Directorate, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Jira Sakolvaree
- Department of Entomology, Armed Forces Research Institute of Medical Sciences-United States Army Medical Directorate, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Pannamthip Pitaksajjakul
- Department of Social and Environmental Medicine, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand; Center of Excellence for Antibody Research, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Surachet Benjathummarak
- Center of Excellence for Antibody Research, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Kanchit Srinoppawan
- Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - David Saunders
- Uniformed Services University School of Medicine, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Erica J Lindroth
- Department of Entomology, Armed Forces Research Institute of Medical Sciences-United States Army Medical Directorate, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Ratree Takhampunya
- Department of Entomology, Armed Forces Research Institute of Medical Sciences-United States Army Medical Directorate, Bangkok, Thailand
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3
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Chaloemthanetphong A, Ahantarig A, Apanaskevich DA, Hirunkanokpun S, Baimai V, Trinachartvanit W. A novel Rickettsia, Candidatus Rickettsia takensis, and the first record of Candidatus Rickettsia laoensis in Dermacentor from Northwestern Thailand. Sci Rep 2023; 13:10044. [PMID: 37344542 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-37206-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2023] [Accepted: 06/18/2023] [Indexed: 06/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Three hundred and forty-four tick samples were collected from vegetation at Taksin Maharat National Park, Tak province, northwestern Thailand. They were morphologically identified and molecularly confirmed by 16S rRNA and COI genes as Dermacentor laothaiensis (n = 105), D. steini (n = 139), and D. auratus (n = 100). These ticks were examined for the spotted fever group rickettsiae (SFGRs) using PCR and DNA sequencing of six genes; 17-kDa, gltA, 16S rRNA, ompA, ompB, and sca4. Of these ticks, 6.10% (21/344) gave positive results for the presence of SFGRs. Phylogenetic analyses of the SFGRs clearly indicated that a novel genotype assigned as Candidatus Rickettsia takensis was detected in D. laothaiensis (19/105) and at lesser frequency in D. steini (1/139). Furthermore, Candidatus Rickettsia laoensis was also found at a low frequency in D. auratus (1/100), the first record in Thailand. Although, the pathogenicities of these SFGRs remain unknown, our findings suggest potential risks of SFGRs being transmitted via ticks near the border between Thailand and Myanmar, a gateway of daily migrations of local people and visitors both legal and illegal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aummarin Chaloemthanetphong
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Biodiversity Research Cluster, Mahidol University, Bangkok, 10400, Thailand
| | - Arunee Ahantarig
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Biodiversity Research Cluster, Mahidol University, Bangkok, 10400, Thailand
- Center of Excellence for Vectors and Vector-Borne Diseases, Faculty of Science, Mahidol University at Salaya, Nakhon Pathom, 73170, Thailand
| | - Dmitry A Apanaskevich
- United States National Tick Collection, The James H. Oliver, Jr. Institute for Coastal Plain Science, Georgia Southern University, Statesboro, GA, 30460-8056, USA
| | - Supanee Hirunkanokpun
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Ramkhamhaeng University, Bangkok, 10240, Thailand
| | - Visut Baimai
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Biodiversity Research Cluster, Mahidol University, Bangkok, 10400, Thailand
| | - Wachareeporn Trinachartvanit
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Biodiversity Research Cluster, Mahidol University, Bangkok, 10400, Thailand.
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Hamid PH, Cahyadi M, Wardhana AH, Sawitri DH, Setya NNR, Insyariati T, Kurnianto H, Hermosilla CR. First Autochthonous Report on Cattle Babesia naoakii in Central Java, Indonesia, and Identification of Haemaphysalis bispinosa Ticks in the Investigated Area. Pathogens 2022; 12:pathogens12010059. [PMID: 36678407 PMCID: PMC9864747 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens12010059] [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: 10/21/2022] [Revised: 12/25/2022] [Accepted: 12/27/2022] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
In tropical countries, clinical bovine babesiosis is a tick-borne disease primarily caused by Babesia bovis and Babesia bigemina. Here, we investigated 11 cattle with presumptive diagnosis of clinical babesiosis in Boyolali district, Central Java, Indonesia. The majority of the animals were anemic, as evidenced by lower hematocrit, hemoglobin concentration, and red blood cell counts than the normal ranges. Blood DNA was analyzed by a PCR assay targeting the 18S rRNA-ITS region of babesial origin, and the results confirmed that the cattle were infected with Babesia species. The sequencing and phylogenetic analyses demonstrated that the animals were infected with Babesia naoakii. This is the first report of B. naoakii in Indonesia and of B. naoakii-induced clinical bovine babesiosis outside of Sri Lanka. B. naoakii causes a persistent infection, as indicated by positive PCR results for serial blood samples of the circulatory system taken two weeks after treatment. Consequently, subclinical or newly recovered cattle may serve as potential intermediate hosts and infect ticks as definitive hosts to complete the life cycle. To identify potential tick vectors, we collected ticks from cattle, including 11 animals with clinical babesiosis. Based on the morphology and the mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit 1 (COX1) of collected ticks, we found that all of the collected ticks were Haemaphysalis bispinosa, identifying this tick species as a potential vector of B. naoakii in Indonesia. In this study, the evaluation of local farmers' awareness and practices regarding tick-borne diseases is presented, as disease prevention is also reliant on the implementation of strategies for vector control. Since livestock activities in Java represent the country's busiest animal trade, thereby the spread of disease to other regions is possible through anthropogenic factors. In conclusion, B. naoakii is a causative pathogen of clinical bovine babesiosis autochthonously occurred in this report and further research on B. naoakii-infection is required in other regions of the country. The prompt treatment of the disease seemed crucial for animal survival, which implies the necessity of early diagnosis and a sensitive detection method.
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Affiliation(s)
- Penny Humaidah Hamid
- Department of Animal Science, Universitas Sebelas Maret, Surakarta 57126, Indonesia
- Correspondence:
| | - Muhammad Cahyadi
- Department of Animal Science, Universitas Sebelas Maret, Surakarta 57126, Indonesia
| | - April Hari Wardhana
- Research Center for Veterinary Science, National Research and Innovation Agency, Bogor 16114, Indonesia
| | | | | | - Titis Insyariati
- Department of Animal Science, Universitas Sebelas Maret, Surakarta 57126, Indonesia
| | - Heri Kurnianto
- Research Center for Veterinary Science, National Research and Innovation Agency, Bogor 16114, Indonesia
| | - Carlos R. Hermosilla
- Institute of Parasitology, Justus Liebig University Giessen, 35390 Giessen, Germany
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Sontigun N, Boonhoh W, Phetcharat Y, Wongtawan T. First study on molecular detection of hemopathogens in tabanid flies (Diptera: Tabanidae) and cattle in Southern Thailand. Vet World 2022; 15:2089-2094. [PMID: 36313830 PMCID: PMC9615497 DOI: 10.14202/vetworld.2022.2089-2094] [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: 04/26/2022] [Accepted: 08/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and Aim: Female tabanids play a key role in disease transmission as mechanical vectors for various hemopathogens, but only a limited number of studies have been conducted on them. This study aimed to investigate the occurrence of hemopathogens in tabanid flies compared to those found in nearby cattle hosts. Materials and Methods: Tabanids were collected using a Nzi trap for three consecutive days per month during the dry season (February–May 2021). Furthermore, blood samples were collected from 20 beef cattle (Bos taurus) raised in the same area where the flies were captured. Conventional polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was used to detect hemopathogenic DNA in flies and beef cattle. Results: In total, 279 female tabanids belonging to five species were collected: Tabanus megalops, Tabanus rubidus, Tabanus mesogaeus, Chrysops dispar, and Chrysops fuscomarginalis. Notably, T. megalops was the most abundant species, accounting for 89.2% of the flies collected (n = 249). PCR technique revealed that 76.6% of T. megalops carried at least one pathogen (Anaplasma, Ehrlichia, Babesia, or Theileria). In addition, all beef cattle had multiple hemopathogenic infections (Anaplasma marginale, Ehrlichia spp., Babesia bigemina, Babesia bovis, and Theileria spp.). Conclusion: Although T. megalops could carry many hemopathogens, it might not be an important vector due to the limited number of flies and parasitic load. Furthermore, T. megalops could be utilized to monitor the presence of hemopathogens in the study area, but not the disease occurrence in the individual host species. Knowing the presence of hemopathogens in flies could help manage the disease in this area.
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Affiliation(s)
- Narin Sontigun
- Akkhraratchakumari Veterinary College, Walailak University, Nakhon Si Thammarat 80160, Thailand; One Health Research Center, Walailak University, Nakhon Si Thammarat 80160, Thailand; Centre of Excellence Research for Melioidosis and Other Microorganisms, Walailak University, Nakhon Si Thammarat 80160, Thailand
| | - Worakan Boonhoh
- Akkhraratchakumari Veterinary College, Walailak University, Nakhon Si Thammarat 80160, Thailand; One Health Research Center, Walailak University, Nakhon Si Thammarat 80160, Thailand
| | - Yotsapat Phetcharat
- Akkhraratchakumari Veterinary College, Walailak University, Nakhon Si Thammarat 80160, Thailand
| | - Tuempong Wongtawan
- Akkhraratchakumari Veterinary College, Walailak University, Nakhon Si Thammarat 80160, Thailand; One Health Research Center, Walailak University, Nakhon Si Thammarat 80160, Thailand; Centre of Excellence Research for Melioidosis and Other Microorganisms, Walailak University, Nakhon Si Thammarat 80160, Thailand
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6
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Eamudomkarn C, Pitaksakulrat O, Boueroy P, Thanasuwan S, Watwiengkam N, Artchayasawat A, Boonmars T. Prevalence of Ehrlichia-, Babesia-, and Hepatozoon-infected brown dog ticks in Khon Kaen Province, Northeast Thailand. Vet World 2022; 15:1699-1705. [PMID: 36185514 PMCID: PMC9394127 DOI: 10.14202/vetworld.2022.1699-1705] [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: 02/11/2022] [Accepted: 05/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and Aim: The brown dog tick, Rhipicephalus sanguineus sensu lato, is the most common tick found on domestic dogs in Southeast Asia, including Thailand. Canine tick-borne pathogens are a public health concern worldwide. Tick-borne diseases are diagnosed by identifying pathogens based on the morphological or molecular analyses of dog blood samples. However, the collection of ticks, a non-invasive procedure, is easier than drawing blood. This study aimed to demonstrate the usefulness of collecting brown dog ticks for the diagnosis of tick-borne diseases and for estimating the prevalence of tick-borne pathogens among companion dogs in Khon Kaen, Northeast Thailand. Materials and Methods: Seventy brown dog ticks from 70 companion dogs in Khon Kaen Province, Thailand, were evaluated for molecular evidence of tick-borne pathogens, including Babesia spp., Ehrlichia canis, and Hepatozoon canis. Ticks were collected from dogs at a private animal hospital based on the presence of at least one of the three inclusion criteria: fever, anorexia, or lethargy. Molecular diagnosis was performed using conventional polymerase chain reaction for the detection of pathogens. Results: Of the 70 ticks collected from 70 sick dogs, 55 (78.57%) were positive for tick-borne pathogens. The most common infection was a single infection with H. canis (65.71%) followed by Babesia spp. (31.43%) and E. canis (30.00%). Coinfection was observed in 14 ticks (20.00%), and coinfection with Babesia spp. and E. canis was the most prevalent double infection (n = 6). The prevalence of coinfection was identical for H. canis mixed with Babesia spp. and H. canis mixed with E. canis (n = 4). Conclusion: The present study showed that tick-borne pathogens are highly prevalent among companion dogs in Khon Kaen Province. Therefore, we encourage an increase in tick control or the reduction and prevention of tick-borne diseases in this region. Furthermore, this study revealed that ticks are valuable samples for the molecular detection of tick-borne pathogens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chatanun Eamudomkarn
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen 40002, Thailand; Cholangiocarcinoma Research Institute, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen 40002, Thailand
| | - Opal Pitaksakulrat
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen 40002, Thailand
| | - Parichart Boueroy
- Department of Community Health Faculty of Public Health, Kasetsart University Chalermphrakiat Sakon Nakhon Province Campus, Sakon Nakhon 47000, Thailand
| | - Sirikanda Thanasuwan
- Department of Veterinary Technology, Faculty of Agriculture Technology, Kalasin University, Kalasin 46000, Thailand
| | - Nattaya Watwiengkam
- Veterinary Clinic Research Unit, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, Mahasarakham University, Maha Sarakham 44000, Thailand
| | - Atchara Artchayasawat
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen 40002, Thailand; Cholangiocarcinoma Research Institute, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen 40002, Thailand
| | - Thidarut Boonmars
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen 40002, Thailand; Cholangiocarcinoma Research Institute, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen 40002, Thailand
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Mohamed WMA, Moustafa MAM, Thu MJ, Kakisaka K, Chatanga E, Ogata S, Hayashi N, Taya Y, Ohari Y, Naguib D, Qiu Y, Matsuno K, Bawm S, Htun LL, Barker SC, Katakura K, Ito K, Nonaka N, Nakao R. Comparative mitogenomics elucidates the population genetic structure of
Amblyomma testudinarium
in Japan and a closely related
Amblyomma
species in Myanmar. Evol Appl 2022; 15:1062-1078. [PMID: 35899249 PMCID: PMC9309438 DOI: 10.1111/eva.13426] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2022] [Revised: 04/27/2022] [Accepted: 05/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Ticks are the second most important vector capable of transmitting diseases affecting the health of both humans and animals. Amblyomma testudinarium Koch 1844 (Acari: Ixodidae), is a hard tick species having a wide geographic distribution in Asia. In this study, we analyzed the composition of A. testudinarium whole mitogenomes from various geographical regions in Japan and investigated the population structure, demographic patterns, and phylogeographic relationship with other ixodid species. In addition, we characterized a potentially novel tick species closely related to A. testudinarium from Myanmar. Phylogeographic inference and evolutionary dynamics based on the 15 mitochondrial coding genes supported that A. testudinarium population in Japan is resolved into a star‐like haplogroup and suggested a distinct population structure of A. testudinarium from Amami island in Kyushu region. Correlation analysis using Mantel test statistics showed that no significant correlation was observed between the genetic and geographic distances calculated between the A. testudinarium population from different localities in Japan. Finally, demographic analyses, including mismatch analysis and Tajima’s D test, suggested a possibility of recent population expansion occurred within Japanese haplogroup after a bottleneck event. Although A. testudinarium has been considered widespread and common in East and Southeast Asia, the current study suggested that potentially several cryptic Amblyomma spp. closely related to A. testudinarium are present in Asia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wessam Mohamed Ahmed Mohamed
- Laboratory of Parasitology, Department of Disease Control, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine Hokkaido University Sapporo Hokkaido Japan
- Division of Bioinformatics, International Institute for Zoonosis Control Hokkaido University Sapporo Hokkaido Japan
| | - Mohamed Abdallah Mohamed Moustafa
- Laboratory of Parasitology, Department of Disease Control, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine Hokkaido University Sapporo Hokkaido Japan
- Department of Animal Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine South Valley University Qena Egypt
| | - May June Thu
- Laboratory of Parasitology, Department of Disease Control, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine Hokkaido University Sapporo Hokkaido Japan
- Department of Food and Drug Administration, Ministry of Health, Zabu Thiri, Nay Pyi Taw 15011 Myanmar
| | - Keita Kakisaka
- Laboratory of Parasitology, Department of Disease Control, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine Hokkaido University Sapporo Hokkaido Japan
| | - Elisha Chatanga
- Laboratory of Parasitology, Department of Disease Control, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine Hokkaido University Sapporo Hokkaido Japan
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine Lilongwe University of Agriculture and Natural Resources Lilongwe Malawi
| | - Shohei Ogata
- Laboratory of Parasitology, Department of Disease Control, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine Hokkaido University Sapporo Hokkaido Japan
| | - Naoki Hayashi
- Laboratory of Parasitology, Department of Disease Control, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine Hokkaido University Sapporo Hokkaido Japan
| | - Yurie Taya
- Laboratory of Parasitology, Department of Disease Control, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine Hokkaido University Sapporo Hokkaido Japan
| | - Yuma Ohari
- Laboratory of Parasitology, Department of Disease Control, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine Hokkaido University Sapporo Hokkaido Japan
| | - Doaa Naguib
- Laboratory of Parasitology, Department of Disease Control, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine Hokkaido University Sapporo Hokkaido Japan
- Department of Hygiene and Zoonoses, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine Mansoura University Mansoura Egypt
| | - Yongjin Qiu
- Division of International Research Promotion, International Institute for Zoonosis Control Hokkaido University Sapporo Hokkaido Japan
| | - Keita Matsuno
- Division of Risk Analysis and Management, International Institute for Zoonosis Control Hokkaido University Sapporo Hokkaido Japan
- International Collaboration Unit, International Institute for Zoonosis Control Hokkaido University Sapporo Hokkaido Japan
- One Health Research Center Hokkaido University Sapporo Hokkaido Japan
| | - Saw Bawm
- Department of International Relations and Information Technology University of Veterinary Science Yezin, Nay Pyi Taw Myanmar
- Department of Pharmacology and Parasitology University of Veterinary Science Yezin, Nay Pyi Taw Myanmar
| | - Lat Lat Htun
- Department of Pharmacology and Parasitology University of Veterinary Science Yezin, Nay Pyi Taw Myanmar
| | - Stephen C. Barker
- Department of Parasitology, School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences The University of Queensland Brisbane QLD Australia
| | - Ken Katakura
- Laboratory of Parasitology, Department of Disease Control, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine Hokkaido University Sapporo Hokkaido Japan
| | - Kimihito Ito
- Division of Bioinformatics, International Institute for Zoonosis Control Hokkaido University Sapporo Hokkaido Japan
| | - Nariaki Nonaka
- Laboratory of Parasitology, Department of Disease Control, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine Hokkaido University Sapporo Hokkaido Japan
| | - Ryo Nakao
- Laboratory of Parasitology, Department of Disease Control, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine Hokkaido University Sapporo Hokkaido Japan
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8
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Usananan P, Kaenkan W, Sudsangiem R, Baimai V, Trinachartvanit W, Ahantarig A. Phylogenetic Studies of Coxiella-Like Bacteria and Spotted Fever Group Rickettsiae in Ticks Collected From Vegetation in Chaiyaphum Province, Thailand. Front Vet Sci 2022; 9:849893. [PMID: 35464383 PMCID: PMC9020810 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2022.849893] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2022] [Accepted: 02/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Ticks can transmit a wide variety of pathogens, including bacteria. Here, we report the detection of tick-associated bacteria in Chaiyaphum Province, northeastern Thailand. There have been few reports of tick-borne bacterial pathogens in the study areas, which are evergreen forests dominated by plateaus at elevations of approximately 1,000 m. In total, 94 ticks were collected from vegetation. They were screened for the presence of Coxiella, Francisella, Rickettsia, and Borrelia bacteria using PCR assays. In this study, we found ticks from two genera, Haemaphysalis and Amblyomma, that were positive for Coxiella-like bacteria (CLB) and Rickettsia. Francisella and Borrelia spp. were not detected in these two tick genera. The results revealed the evolutionary relationships of CLB in Amblyomma testudinarium, Haemaphysalis lagrangei, and Haemaphysalis obesa ticks using the 16S rRNA and rpoB markers, which clustered together with known isolates of ticks from the same genera. In contrast, the groEL marker showed different results. On the basis of the groEL phylogenetic analysis and BLAST results, three groups of CLB were found: (1) CLB from A. testudinarium grouped as a sister clade to CLB from Ixodes ricinus; (2) CLB from Haemaphysalis lagrangei was distantly related to CLB from Haemaphysalis wellingtoni; and (3) CLB from A. testudinarium grouped as sister clade to CLB from Amblyomma from French Guiana and Brazil. For Rickettsia studies, phylogenetic trees of the gltA, ompB, and sca4 genes revealed two groups of Spotted Fever Group (SFG) Rickettsiae: (1) SFG Rickettsiae that formed a sister clade with Rickettsia tamurae AT-1 (belong to the Rickettsia helvetica subgroup) in A. testudinarium and (2) SFG Rickettsiae that formed a distantly related group to Rickettsia rhipicephali 3-7-female6-CWPP (belong to the Rickettsia massiliae subgroup) in A. testudinarium. This study expanded our knowledge of the diversity of tick-borne Coxiella and Rickettsia bacteria. The pathogenic roles of these bacteria also need to be investigated further.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pawiga Usananan
- Biodiversity Research Cluster, Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Warissara Kaenkan
- Biodiversity Research Cluster, Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Ronnayuth Sudsangiem
- Biodiversity Research Cluster, Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Visut Baimai
- Biodiversity Research Cluster, Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | | | - Arunee Ahantarig
- Biodiversity Research Cluster, Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
- Center of Excellence for Vectors and Vector-Borne Diseases, Faculty of Science, Mahidol University, Nakhon Pathom, Thailand
- *Correspondence: Arunee Ahantarig
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Hirunkanokpun S, Ahantarig A, Baimai V, Pramual P, Rakthong P, Trinachartvanit W. Spotted fever group Rickettsia, Anaplasma and Coxiella-like endosymbiont in Haemaphysalis ticks from mammals in Thailand. Vet Res Commun 2022; 46:1209-1219. [PMID: 35945408 PMCID: PMC9684344 DOI: 10.1007/s11259-022-09980-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2022] [Accepted: 07/28/2022] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
Ticks are ectoparasites of vertebrates and vectors of various pathogenic microorganisms. In this study, the presence of bacteria and protozoa was evaluated by PCR and DNA sequencing in 233 mammal ticks collected from 8 provinces in Thailand. Sequence and phylogenetic analyses of partial rickettsial ompA, ompB, sca4 and partial Coxiella 16S rRNA, GroEL, rpoB genes clearly revealed, for the first time, a co-infection of SFG Rickettsia belonging to R. massiliae subgroup and Coxiella-like endosymbiont (CLE), Cox-hein, in a male of Haemaphysalis heinrichi tick infesting Burmese ferret-badger in Loei province. Moreover, a male of H. hystricis tick infesting the same host was infected with another CLE, Cox-hys. Based on the 16S rRNA gene sequence, Anaplasma sp., closely related to Anaplasma bovis was also detected in a male of H. heinrichi infesting the same Burmese ferret-badger. In addition, the third CLE, Cox-asia, found in H. asiatica collected from Asian palm civet in Chiang Rai province, was different from both Cox-hein and Cox-hys. This study provided important data and broadened our knowledge on tick-borne pathogens and endosymbionts in Thailand and Southeast Asia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Supanee Hirunkanokpun
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Ramkhamhaeng University, Bangkok, 10240, Thailand
| | - Arunee Ahantarig
- Biodiversity Research Cluster, Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Mahidol University, Bangkok, 10400, Thailand
| | - Visut Baimai
- Biodiversity Research Cluster, Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Mahidol University, Bangkok, 10400, Thailand
| | - Pairot Pramual
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Mahasarakham University, Maha Sarakham, 44150, Thailand
| | - Pakavadee Rakthong
- Faculty of Science and Technology, Rajabhat Suratthani University, Surat Thani, 84100, Thailand
| | - Wachareeporn Trinachartvanit
- Biodiversity Research Cluster, Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Mahidol University, Bangkok, 10400, Thailand.
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Buczek A, Pilch J, Buczek W. Tick Preventive Behaviors and Practices Adopted by Medical Students from Poland, Germany, and Thailand in Relation to Socio-Demographic Conditions and Their Knowledge of Ticks and Tick-Borne Diseases. INSECTS 2020; 11:insects11120863. [PMID: 33287425 PMCID: PMC7761883 DOI: 10.3390/insects11120863] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2020] [Revised: 12/01/2020] [Accepted: 12/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Given the high medical importance of ticks, we analyzed the most common preventive behaviors and practices adopted by medical students from Poland, Germany, and Thailand, and the level of their knowledge of ticks and tick-borne diseases. A survey consisting of 19 questions was conducted among 636 randomly selected students. The study showed that the Polish and German students preferred inspection of the body on their return home (86.9% and 63.5%, respectively) and wearing protective clothes (79.8% and 32.3%, respectively) as part of prophylaxis. The Thai students most often chose wearing protective clothes (54.7%) and preventive behavior in tick habitats (42.7%). Approximately 7% of the Polish medical students and as many as 22% of the German and Thai respondents did not use any means of prevention. Our analyses suggest that the use of preventive methods and respondents' behaviors depend on socio-demographic factors and the level of health education. The insufficient practical implementation of tick prevention measures by the medical students suggests a need for verification of health education programs in schools as well as effective popularization and educational activities. It is also necessary to develop a public health protection strategy against the effects of tick bites.
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Panthawong A, Grieco JP, Ngoen-Klan R, Chao CC, Chareonviriyaphap T. Detection of Anaplasma spp. and Bartonella spp. from wild-caught rodents and their ectoparasites in Nakhon Ratchasima Province, Thailand. JOURNAL OF VECTOR ECOLOGY : JOURNAL OF THE SOCIETY FOR VECTOR ECOLOGY 2020; 45:241-253. [PMID: 33207059 DOI: 10.1111/jvec.12395] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2020] [Accepted: 07/25/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
The objective of this study was to investigate evidence of emerging anaplasmosis and bartonellosis in rodents from endemic areas of Nakhon Ratchasima, Thailand. Rodent trapping was undertaken in 13 sub-districts of Muang District. The live-capture traps were set up in three locations of selected scrub typhus patient houses for three consecutive nights. Wild-caught rodent whole blood samples and associated ticks and fleas were collected and tested for Anaplasma spp. and Bartonella spp. In addition, heat maps using GIS software were used to determine the density of infection of positive wild-caught rodents. A total of 347 wild-caught rodents of nine species was captured. Rattus rattus (38.6%) was the dominant species. A total of 1,518 Heamaphysalis bandicota ticks and 57 Xenopsylla cheopis fleas was removed. Twenty-two of the 347 tested blood samples (6.3%) were Anaplasma bovis-positive and 121 blood samples and five out of 27 pools of X. cheopis fleas were Bartonella queenslandensis-positive. Of these infected rodents, dual-infections between A. bovis and B. queenslandensis were found in three B. indica rodents. Our results offer new information concerning the infections of A. bovis and B. queenslandensis in both rodents and their ectoparasites collected in high-risk areas of rodent-borne diseases in Thailand.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amonrat Panthawong
- Department of Entomology, Faculty of Agriculture, Kasetsart University, angkok, 10900, Thailand
| | - John Paul Grieco
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Notre Dame, IN, 46556, U.S.A
| | - Ratchadawan Ngoen-Klan
- Department of Entomology, Faculty of Agriculture, Kasetsart University, angkok, 10900, Thailand
| | - Chien-Chung Chao
- Viral and Rickettsial Diseases Department, Naval Medical Research Center Silver Spring, MD, 20910, U.S.A
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Kwak ML. A checklist and key to the tick fauna (Acari: Ixodidae, Argasidae) of Pulau Tioman, Malaysia. EXPERIMENTAL & APPLIED ACAROLOGY 2020; 81:51-58. [PMID: 32246381 DOI: 10.1007/s10493-020-00487-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2019] [Accepted: 03/25/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Pulau Tioman is a popular tourist island off the east coast of Peninsula Malaysia, known for its vast areas of intact vegetation. Six tick species have been recorded on the island but little is known about their local ecology or public health importance. To facilitate studies of the tick fauna of Pulau Tioman, a checklist of all species and host associations is presented with the first host records, from Pulau Tioman, of Amblyomma helvolum from the Asian water monitor (Varanus salvator) and Amblyomma varanense from the keeled rat snake (Ptyas carinata). A pictorial key is also presented for all tick species known from the island.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mackenzie L Kwak
- Department of Biological Science, National University of Singapore, 16 Science Drive 4, Singapore, 117558, Republic of Singapore.
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Low VL, Tan TK, Khoo JJ, Lim FS, AbuBakar S. An overview of rickettsiae in Southeast Asia: Vector-animal-human interface. Acta Trop 2020; 202:105282. [PMID: 31778642 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2019.105282] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2019] [Revised: 11/24/2019] [Accepted: 11/24/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Rickettsioses are emerging, and re-emerging diseases caused by obligate intracellular arthropod-borne bacteria that infect humans and animals worldwide. Various rickettsiae such as Orientia, Rickettsia, Anaplasma and Ehrlichia have been circulated in companion, domesticated and wild animals through bites of infected ticks, fleas, lice or mites. This review summarizes the infections of rickettsiae, including the newly discovered regional species Rickettsia thailandii, Candidatus Rickettsia sepangensis, Candidatus Rickettsia johorensis, Candidatus Rickettsia laoensis, Candidatus Rickettsia mahosotii, Candidatus Rickettsia khammouanensis, Candidatus Anaplasma pangolinii, and other novel genotypes in vectors, humans and animals in Southeast Asia. Issues on some unidentified rickettsiae that elicit immune responses and production of antibodies that are cross-reactive with the antigens used are discussed. Knowledge gaps which required attention are also identified in this review.
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Affiliation(s)
- Van Lun Low
- Higher Institution Centre of Excellence (HICoE), Tropical Infectious Diseases Research and Education Centre (TIDREC), University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
| | - Tiong Kai Tan
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Jing Jing Khoo
- Higher Institution Centre of Excellence (HICoE), Tropical Infectious Diseases Research and Education Centre (TIDREC), University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Fang Shiang Lim
- Higher Institution Centre of Excellence (HICoE), Tropical Infectious Diseases Research and Education Centre (TIDREC), University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Sazaly AbuBakar
- Higher Institution Centre of Excellence (HICoE), Tropical Infectious Diseases Research and Education Centre (TIDREC), University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia; Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
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Guo WP, Wang X, Li YN, Xu G, Wang YH, Zhou EM. GroEL gene typing and genetic diversity of Anaplasma bovis in ticks in Shaanxi, China. INFECTION GENETICS AND EVOLUTION 2019; 74:103927. [PMID: 31220612 DOI: 10.1016/j.meegid.2019.103927] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2019] [Revised: 06/12/2019] [Accepted: 06/16/2019] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Anaplasma bovis, causative agent of bovine anaplasmosis, is usually identified by nested-PCR amplifying the rrs gene. However, it is difficult to determine the genetic relationship among different variants within A. bovis using this gene because of high conservation. In this study, two tick species, identified as Rhipicephalus microplus and Haemaphysalis longicornis based on morphological and molecular methods by analyzing COI gene, were collected from cattle, goat or sheep. Subsequently, A. bovis was initially detected by PCR amplifying the rrs gene in ticks in Shaanxi Province, China. The sequencing and Blast results showed that some false positive samples were found when only based on the amplification of partial rrs gene, presenting these sequences resembled those of other Alphaproteobacteria rather than A. bovis. Although major surface proteins genes were proposed and used successfully to identify members within Anaplasmataceae, these genes were unavailable for A. bovis. Hence, primers targeting the groEL gene were designed and a PCR assay was developed. The PCR products were sequenced and similarity and phylogenetic analysis suggested all these sequences are the groEL gene of A. bovis. In addition, phylogenetic analysis based on the groEL gene also revealed the genetic diversity of A. bovis worldwide, as well as in Shaanxi Province of China, which wasn't reflected by analyzing the rrs gene. In sum, groEL gene is important for molecular detection and phylogenetic analysis of A. bovis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wen-Ping Guo
- Department of Preventive Veterinary Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China; Scientific Observing and Experimental Station of Veterinary Pharmacology and Diagnostic Technology, Ministry of Agriculture, Yangling, Shaanxi, China.
| | - Xiaoquan Wang
- Xuwang Town Comprehensive Agricultural Service Station, Hanzhong, Shaanxi, China
| | - Ya-Ning Li
- Department of Preventive Veterinary Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China; Scientific Observing and Experimental Station of Veterinary Pharmacology and Diagnostic Technology, Ministry of Agriculture, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
| | - Gang Xu
- Department of Preventive Veterinary Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China; Scientific Observing and Experimental Station of Veterinary Pharmacology and Diagnostic Technology, Ministry of Agriculture, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
| | - Yi-Han Wang
- Department of Preventive Veterinary Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China; Scientific Observing and Experimental Station of Veterinary Pharmacology and Diagnostic Technology, Ministry of Agriculture, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
| | - En-Min Zhou
- Department of Preventive Veterinary Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China; Scientific Observing and Experimental Station of Veterinary Pharmacology and Diagnostic Technology, Ministry of Agriculture, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
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Kho KL, Tan PE, Tay ST. Diversity of Rickettsiae in Feeding and Questing Ticks Collected From a Malaysian Forest Reserve Area. JOURNAL OF MEDICAL ENTOMOLOGY 2019; 56:547-552. [PMID: 30304529 DOI: 10.1093/jme/tjy168] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
High seropositivity to Rickettsia conorii and Rickettsia felis has been reported in Malaysian indigenous community living in settlements adjacent to forest areas. The current study was conducted to determine the type and distribution of rickettsiae in feeding and questing ticks that were collected from a forest reserve area at Kuala Lompat in Pahang, Malaysia. Using PCR assays targeting citrate synthase (gltA), outer membrane protein A (ompA) and B (ompB) genes, rickettsiae were detected from approximately one-third of 98 ticks (mainly Dermacentor and Haemaphysalis spp.) collected from the forest reserve. BLAST analysis reveals the predominance of Rickettsia sp. RF2125 in both feeding and questing ticks and Rickettsia sp. TCM1 in the questing ticks. Sequences exhibiting close genetic relationship with Rickettsia raoultii, Rickettsia tamurae, Rickettsia heilongjiangensis, and Rickettsia asiatica were also detected from the ticks. This study highlights the diversity of rickettsial species and potential tick vectors which may contribute to the high seropositivity observed among the local communities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kai Ling Kho
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Poai Ean Tan
- Department of Wildlife and National Parks Peninsular Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Sun Tee Tay
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
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High genetic diversity in hard ticks from a China-Myanmar border county. Parasit Vectors 2018; 11:469. [PMID: 30107820 PMCID: PMC6092835 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-018-3048-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2018] [Accepted: 08/01/2018] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Many tick species have great morphological similarity and are thus grouped into species complexes. Molecular methods are therefore useful in the classification and identification of ticks. However, little is known about the genetic diversity of hard ticks in China, especially at the subspecies level. Tengchong is one of the epidemic foci of tick-borne diseases in China, but the tick species inhabiting the local area are still unknown. Methods Eighteen villages in Tengchong County, China, were selected for sampling carried out from September to October 2014. Infesting hard ticks were removed from the body surface of domestic animals and questing ticks were collected from grazing fields. After morphological identification, molecular characteristics of each tick species were analyzed based on both 16S rRNA and cytochrome c oxidase subunit 1 (cox1) gene fragments. Results Six tick species were identified based on morphology: Rhipicephalus microplus, R. haemaphysaloides, Ixodes ovatus, Haemaphysalis longicornis, H. shimoga and H. kitaokai. Phylogenetic analysis using the cox1 gene revealed that R. microplus ticks from the present study belong to clade C. For tick samples of both R. haemaphysaloides and I. ovatus, three phylogenetic groups were recognized, and the intergroup genetic distances exceeded the usual tick species boundaries. Haemaphysalis longicornis ticks were clustered into two separate clades based on the cox1 gene. For ticks from both H. shimoga and H. kitaokai, two phylogenetic groups were recognized based on the phylogenetic analysis of the 16S rRNA gene, and the intergroup genetic distances also exceeded the known boundaries for closely related tick species. Conclusions According to molecular analyses, new species or subspecies closely related to R. haemaphysaloides, I. ovatus, H. shimoga and H. kitaokai probably exist in the China-Myanmar border Tengchong County, or these ticks form species complexes with highly divergent mitochondrial lineages. Morphological comparisons are warranted to further confirm the taxonomic status of these tick species. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s13071-018-3048-5) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Nooroong P, Trinachartvanit W, Baimai V, Ahantarig A. Phylogenetic studies of bacteria (Rickettsia, Coxiella, and Anaplasma) in Amblyomma and Dermacentor ticks in Thailand and their co-infection. Ticks Tick Borne Dis 2018; 9:963-971. [PMID: 29610046 DOI: 10.1016/j.ttbdis.2018.03.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2017] [Revised: 03/23/2018] [Accepted: 03/23/2018] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
In this study, we attempted to detect Rickettsia, Coxiella and Anaplasma bacteria in one hundred and fourteen-Dermacentor and thirty three-Amblyomma unfed adult ticks that were collected from under leaves along animal trails at different places across Thailand. PCR amplification was used to identify bacterial infection with general conserved sequences of bacteria. The results revealed single infection in Amblyomma testudinarium ticks with Rickettsia (24%) and Coxiella (6%). Anaplasma bacteria were often detected in Dermacentor auratus ticks (32%). Coxiella spp. were detected in Dermacentor atrosignatus (6%) and D. auratus ticks (3%) in this study. Moreover, we found co-infection by Coxiella and Rickettsia bacteria (39%) in Am. testudinarium. In contrast, D. atrosignatus ticks were co-infected with Coxiella and Anaplasma bacteria (3%) and Dermacentor compactus ticks were co-infected with Rickettsia and Anaplasma spp. (25%). Interestingly, Am. testudinarium ticks (12%) were found for the first time to exhibit triple infection by these three bacteria. Phylogenetic studies showed the rickettsiae from ticks causing both single and multiple infections had sequence similarity with spotted fever group rickettsial strains, including Rickettsia massilliae, R. raoultii and R. tamurae. In addition, the phylogenetic analysis of the 16S rRNA gene of Coxiella bacteria showed that they were closely grouped with Coxiella endosymbionts in both Dermacentor and Amblyomma. Moreover, the Anaplasma identified in a D. auratus tick was grouped in the same clade with the pathogenic bacterium Anaplasma phagocytophilum. Bacterial co-infections in Dermacentor and Amblyomma ticks may cause co-transmission of some tick-borne microorganisms (pathogen and endosymbiont, whether enhance or reduce) in humans and animals and they could affect medical and veterinary health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pornpiroon Nooroong
- Biodiversity Research Cluster, Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Mahidol University, Rama 6 Road, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Wachareeporn Trinachartvanit
- Biodiversity Research Cluster, Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Mahidol University, Rama 6 Road, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Visut Baimai
- Biodiversity Research Cluster, Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Mahidol University, Rama 6 Road, Bangkok, Thailand; Center of Excellence for Vectors and Vector-Borne Diseases, Faculty of Science, Mahidol University at Salaya, Phutthamonthon 4 Road, Nakhon Pathom, Thailand
| | - Arunee Ahantarig
- Biodiversity Research Cluster, Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Mahidol University, Rama 6 Road, Bangkok, Thailand; Center of Excellence for Vectors and Vector-Borne Diseases, Faculty of Science, Mahidol University at Salaya, Phutthamonthon 4 Road, Nakhon Pathom, Thailand.
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Koh FX, Kho KL, Kisomi MG, Wong LP, Bulgiba A, Tan PE, Lim YAL, Nizam QNH, Panchadcharam C, Tay ST. Ehrlichia and Anaplasma Infections: Serological Evidence and Tick Surveillance in Peninsular Malaysia. JOURNAL OF MEDICAL ENTOMOLOGY 2018; 55:269-276. [PMID: 29202206 DOI: 10.1093/jme/tjx204] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Little information is available on human anaplasmosis and ehrlichiosis in Southeast Asia despite increasing reports of the detection of Anaplasma spp. and Ehrlichia spp. in the ticks. We report herein the serological findings against the tick-borne pathogens in a group of animal farm workers (n = 87) and indigenous people (n = 102) in Peninsular Malaysia. IgG antibodies against Ehrlichia chaffeensis were detected from 29.9% and 34.3% of farm workers and indigenous people, respectively, using commercial indirect immunofluorescence assays. Comparatively, only 6.9% of the indigenous people but none of the animal farm workers were seropositive to Anaplasma phagocytophilum. A polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assay targeting the 16S rRNA gene of Anaplasmataceae was used to identify Anaplastamataceae in ticks collected from various locations adjacent to the areas where the serological survey was conducted. In this study, a total of 61.5% of ticks infesting farm animals, 37.5% of ticks infesting peri-domestic animals in rural villages, 27.3% of ticks collected from wildlife animals, and 29.1% of questing ticks collected from forest vegetation were positive for Anaplasmataceae DNA. Sequence analyses of 16S rRNA gene region (238 bp) provide the identification for Anaplasma marginale, Anaplasma bovis, Anaplasma platys, A. phagocytophilum, and Anaplasma spp. closely related to Candidatus Cryptoplasma californiense in ticks. E. chaffeensis DNA was not detected from any ticks, instead, Ehrlichia sp. strain EBm52, Ehrlichia mineirensis and Candidatus Ehrlichia shimanensis are the only Ehrlichia sp. identified from cattle ticks in this study. Further investigation is required to ascertain the occurrence of zoonotic transmission of Ehrlichia and Anaplasma infections in Peninsular Malaysia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fui Xian Koh
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Kai Ling Kho
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Masoumeh Ghane Kisomi
- Julius Centre University of Malaya, Department of Social and Preventive Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Li Ping Wong
- Julius Centre University of Malaya, Department of Social and Preventive Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Awang Bulgiba
- Julius Centre University of Malaya, Department of Social and Preventive Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Poai Ean Tan
- Department of Wildlife and National Parks Peninsular Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Yvonne Ai Lian Lim
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Quaza Nizamuddin Hassan Nizam
- Department of Veterinary Services, Ministry of Agriculture and Agro-Based Industry Malaysia, Federal Government Administrative Center, Putrajaya, Malaysia
| | - Chandrawathani Panchadcharam
- Department of Veterinary Services, Ministry of Agriculture and Agro-Based Industry Malaysia, Federal Government Administrative Center, Putrajaya, Malaysia
| | - Sun Tee Tay
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
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Kuo CC, Lin YF, Yao CT, Shih HC, Chung LH, Liao HC, Hsu YC, Wang HC. Tick-borne pathogens in ticks collected from birds in Taiwan. Parasit Vectors 2017; 10:587. [PMID: 29178908 PMCID: PMC5702202 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-017-2535-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2017] [Accepted: 11/13/2017] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background A variety of human diseases transmitted by arthropod vectors, including ticks, are emerging around the globe. Birds are known to be hosts of ticks and can disperse exotic ticks and tick-borne pathogens. In Taiwan, previous studies have focused predominantly on mammals, leaving the role of birds in the maintenance of ticks and dissemination of tick-borne pathogens undetermined. Methods Ticks were collected opportunistically when birds were studied from 1995 to 2013. Furthermore, to improve knowledge on the prevalence and mean load of tick infestation on birds in Taiwan, ticks were thoroughly searched for when birds were mist-netted at seven sites between September 2014 and April 2016 in eastern Taiwan. Ticks were identified based on both morphological and molecular information and were screened for potential tick-borne pathogens, including the genera Anaplasma, Babesia, Borrelia, Ehrlichia and Rickettsia. Finally, a list of hard tick species collected from birds in Taiwan was compiled based on past work and the current study. Results Nineteen ticks (all larvae) were recovered from four of the 3096 unique mist-netted bird individuals, yielding a mean load of 0.006 ticks/individual and an overall prevalence of 0.13%. A total of 139 ticks from birds, comprising 48 larvae, 35 nymphs, 55 adults and one individual of unknown life stage, were collected from 1995 to 2016, and 11 species of four genera were identified, including three newly recorded species (Haemaphysalis wellingtoni, Ixodes columnae and Ixodes turdus). A total of eight tick-borne pathogens were detected, with five species (Borrelia turdi, Anaplasma sp. clone BJ01, Ehrlichia sp. BL157-9, Rickettsia helvetica and Rickettsia monacensis) not previously isolated in Taiwan. Overall, 16 tick species of five genera have been recorded feeding on birds, including nine species first discovered in this study. Conclusion Our study demonstrates the paucity of information on ticks of birds and emphasizes the need for more research on ticks of birds in Taiwan and Southeast Asia. Moreover, some newly recorded ticks and tick-borne pathogens were found only on migratory birds, demonstrating the necessity of further surveillance on these highly mobile species. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s13071-017-2535-4) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chi-Chien Kuo
- Department of Life Science, National Taiwan Normal University, Taipei, Taiwan.
| | - Yi-Fu Lin
- Department of Life Science, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Cheng-Te Yao
- Endemic Species Research Institute, Council of Agriculture, Chi-chi, Nantou, Taiwan
| | - Han-Chun Shih
- Center for Diagnostics and Vaccine Development, Centers for Disease Control, Ministry of Health and Welfare, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Lo-Hsuan Chung
- Center for Diagnostics and Vaccine Development, Centers for Disease Control, Ministry of Health and Welfare, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Hsien-Chun Liao
- Center for Diagnostics and Vaccine Development, Centers for Disease Control, Ministry of Health and Welfare, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Yu-Cheng Hsu
- Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Studies, National Dong Hwa University, Hualien, Taiwan.
| | - Hsi-Chieh Wang
- Center for Diagnostics and Vaccine Development, Centers for Disease Control, Ministry of Health and Welfare, Taipei, Taiwan.
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Apanaskevich DA, Bandaranayaka KO, Apanaskevich MA, Rajakaruna RS. Redescription of Amblyomma integrum adults and immature stages. MEDICAL AND VETERINARY ENTOMOLOGY 2016; 30:330-341. [PMID: 27335249 DOI: 10.1111/mve.12178] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2015] [Revised: 01/13/2016] [Accepted: 01/16/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Amblyomma integrum Karsch, 1879 (Acari: Ixodidae) is one of four Amblyomma Koch, 1844 species with eyes found in southern India and Sri Lanka. The immature stages of this species were poorly described. Therefore, accurate identification is difficult. Here we re-describe the male, female, nymph and larva of A. integrum and illustrate all the stages in greater detail for the first time. A set of diagnostic morphological characters is defined to distinguish this species from other sympatric species of eyed Amblyomma in any parasitic stage of development. Adults of A. integrum parasitize mostly various larger mammals whereas nymphs and larvae use mostly larger and medium mammals. Amblyomma integrum is recorded from India (Andhra Pradesh, Goa, Karnataka, Orissa and Tamil Nadu States) and throughout Sri Lanka.
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Affiliation(s)
- D A Apanaskevich
- United States National Tick Collection, the James H. Oliver, Jr. Institute for Coastal Plain Science, Georgia Southern University, Statesboro, GA, U.S.A
| | - K O Bandaranayaka
- Department of Zoology, University of Peradeniya, Peradeniya, Sri Lanka
| | - M A Apanaskevich
- United States National Tick Collection, the James H. Oliver, Jr. Institute for Coastal Plain Science, Georgia Southern University, Statesboro, GA, U.S.A
| | - R S Rajakaruna
- Department of Zoology, University of Peradeniya, Peradeniya, Sri Lanka
- Postgraduate Institute of Science, University of Peradeniya, Peradeniya, Sri Lanka
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Alpha proteobacteria of genusAnaplasma(Rickettsiales: Anaplasmataceae): Epidemiology and characteristics ofAnaplasmaspecies related to veterinary and public health importance. Parasitology 2016; 143:659-85. [DOI: 10.1017/s0031182016000238] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
SUMMARYTheAnaplasmaspecies are important globally distributed tick-transmitted bacteria of veterinary and public health importance. These pathogens, cause anaplasmosis in domestic and wild animal species including humans.Rhipicephalus, Ixodes, DermacentorandAmblyommagenera of ticks are the important vectors ofAnaplasma.Acute anaplasmosis is usually diagnosed upon blood smear examination followed by antibodies and nucleic acid detection. All age groups are susceptible but prevalence increases with age. Serological cross-reactivity is one of the important issues amongAnaplasmaspecies. They co-exist and concurrent infections occur in animals and ticks in same geographic area. These are closely related bacteria and share various common attributes which should be considered while developing vaccines and diagnostic assays. Movement of susceptible animals from non-endemic to endemic regions is the major risk factor of bovine/ovine anaplasmosis and tick-borne fever. Tetracyclines are currently available drugs for clearance of infection and treatment in humans and animals. Worldwide vaccine is not yet available. Identification, elimination of reservoirs, vector control (chemical and biological), endemic stability, habitat modification, rearing of tick resistant breeds, chemotherapy and tick vaccination are major control measures of animal anaplasmosis. Identification of reservoirs and minimizing the high-risk tick exposure activities are important control strategies for human granulocytic anaplasmosis.
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