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Navi Z, Falak R, Mohebali M, Molairad MB, Zarei Z, Aryaeipour M, Rahimi Foroushani A, Zibaei M, Rokni MB. Evaluation of Somatic Antigens of Adult Toxocara helminthes for Detection of Human Toxocariasis. Parasite Immunol 2024; 46:e13055. [PMID: 38979848 DOI: 10.1111/pim.13055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2024] [Revised: 05/13/2024] [Accepted: 06/17/2024] [Indexed: 07/10/2024]
Abstract
We aimed to develop an indirect enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) to evaluate the presence of specific IgG against Toxocara canis and Toxocara cati somatic antigens on the serum of patients with toxocariasis. The sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive values for indirect-ELISA were calculated by receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC) analysis and Youden's J using Likelihood ratio. All statistics were analysed and graphs are plotted using GraphPad Prism version 8.4.3 (Graph Pad Software, La Jolla, CA, USA), with 95% confidence interval (CI). The sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive values for T. canis were 100%, 82%, 79% and 100%, respectively. The mentioned variables for T. cati were 97%, 82%, 78% and 98%, respectively. Five immune reactive bands of 38, 40, 72, 100 and 250 kDa were common in both species. Toxocara crude antigens were highly immunogenic in human sera. Immunoreactive bands against T. canis compared to T. cati somatic antigen were about two times more. Unlike Toxocara excretory-secretory antigen, that was homologue in two species, somatic antigens of T. canis and T. cati showed different immunoreactive bands in our western blot.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zahra Navi
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Reza Falak
- Immunology Research Center, Institute of Immunology and Infection Diseases, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mehdi Mohebali
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad Bagher Molairad
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Zabihollah Zarei
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mojgan Aryaeipour
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Abbas Rahimi Foroushani
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad Zibaei
- Department of Parasitology, School of Medicine, Alborz University of Medical Sciences, Karaj, Iran
| | - Mohammad Bagher Rokni
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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Yang Y, Chen Y, Zheng Z, Lin L, Chen X, Yang C, Zhong D, Wu H, Xiong Z, Liu S, Wang T, Yang Y, Du A, Ma G. Alterations of plasma circulating microRNAs in BALB/c mice with Toxocara canis visceral and cerebral larva migrans. Parasit Vectors 2024; 17:256. [PMID: 38867315 PMCID: PMC11167859 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-024-06327-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2024] [Accepted: 05/18/2024] [Indexed: 06/14/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Human toxocariasis is a neglected parasitic disease characterised by the syndromes visceral, cerebral, and ocular larva migrans. This disease is caused by the migrating larvae of Toxocara roundworms from dogs and cats, affecting 1.4 billion people globally. Via extracellular vesicles (EVs), microRNAs have been demonstrated to play roles in host-parasite interactions and proposed as circulating biomarkers for the diagnosis and follow-up of parasitic diseases. METHODS Small RNA-seq was conducted to identify miRNAs in the infective larvae of T. canis and plasma EV-containing preparations of infected BALB/c mice. Differential expression analysis and target prediction were performed to indicate miRNAs involved in host-parasite interactions and miRNAs associated with visceral and/or cerebral larva migrans in the infected mice. Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was used to amplify circulating miRNAs from the infected mice. RESULTS This study reports host and parasite miRNAs in the plasma of BALB/c mice with visceral and cerebral larva migrans and demonstrates the alterations of these miRNAs during the migration of larvae from the livers through the lungs and to the brains of infected mice. After filtering unspecific changes in an irrelevant control, T. canis-derived miRNAs and T. canis infection-induced differential miRNAs are predicted to modulate genes consistently involved in mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signalling and pathways regulating axon guidance and pluripotency of stem in the infected mice with visceral and cerebral larva migrans. For these plasma circulating miRNAs predicted to be involved in host-parasite crosstalk, two murine miRNAs (miR-26b-5p and miR-122-5p) are experimentally verified to be responsive to larva migrans and represent circulating biomarker candidates for visceral and cerebral toxocariasis in BALB/c mice. CONCLUSIONS Our findings provide novel insights into the crosstalk of T. canis and the mammalian host via plasma circulating miRNAs, and prime agents and indicators for visceral and cerebral larva migrans. A deep understanding of these aspects will underpin the diagnosis and control of toxocariasis in humans and animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yifan Yang
- College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Preventive Veterinary Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yi Chen
- College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Preventive Veterinary Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Zhiwan Zheng
- Department of Pathogenic Biology, West China School of Basic Medical Sciences and Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Lijun Lin
- School of Basic Medicine and Forensic Medicine, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Xueqiu Chen
- College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Preventive Veterinary Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Chenyu Yang
- College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Preventive Veterinary Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Die Zhong
- College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Preventive Veterinary Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Haiyan Wu
- College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Preventive Veterinary Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Zhiwei Xiong
- College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Preventive Veterinary Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Sishi Liu
- College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Preventive Veterinary Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Tao Wang
- College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Preventive Veterinary Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yi Yang
- College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Preventive Veterinary Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Aifang Du
- College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Preventive Veterinary Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Guangxu Ma
- College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Preventive Veterinary Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China.
- ZJU-Xinchang Joint Innovation Centre (TianMu Laboratory), Gaochuang Hi-Tech Park, Xinchang, Zhejiang, China.
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Antonopoulos A, Giannelli A, Morgan ER, Charlier J. Quantifying the neglected: Initial estimation of the global burden and economic impact of human toxocariasis. CURRENT RESEARCH IN PARASITOLOGY & VECTOR-BORNE DISEASES 2024; 5:100180. [PMID: 38872976 PMCID: PMC11169085 DOI: 10.1016/j.crpvbd.2024.100180] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2024] [Revised: 05/10/2024] [Accepted: 05/20/2024] [Indexed: 06/15/2024]
Abstract
Toxocariasis is a parasitic zoonotic infection caused by Toxocara spp., ascarid nematodes of companion animals (dogs and cats) affecting people in both high-income and low/middle-income countries. Toxocariasis can manifest as several distinct syndromes. The most frequent, often termed common toxocariasis, is a self-limiting and mild febrile illness. Ocular and visceral larva migrans are severe disease manifestations affecting the eye and other internal organs, respectively, but their reported occurrence is rare. The vast majority of symptomatic cases are thought due to common toxocariasis, which has also been associated with cognitive impairment in children. Few studies to date have sought to quantity the health burden of toxocariasis in humans. In this study we provide a preliminary estimation using the Disability-Adjusted Life Year (DALY) approach. We estimate a total of 23,084 DALYs are lost annually in 28 selected countries due to common toxocariasis. Extrapolating based on a global average seroprevalence rate of 19%, we estimate 91,714 DALYs per year are lost across all countries due to toxocariasis, of which 40,912 are attributable to less severe forms, i.e. common toxocariasis, and 50,731 to cognitive impairment in children. Clinically diagnosed and reported ocular and visceral larva migrans represent a small proportion of estimated total health burden. We also found a positive correlation at national level between prevalence in cats or dogs and seroprevalence in humans, but no correlation between estimated soil contamination and seroprevalence in humans. Finally, we estimate the potential economic impact of toxocariasis in selected countries at 2.5 billion USD per annum, from costs of medical treatment and lost income. These preliminary estimates should serve as a call to action for further research and evidence-based measures to tackle toxocariasis.
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Bonilla-Aldana JL, Espinosa-Nuñez AC, Bonilla-Aldana DK, Rodriguez-Morales AJ. Toxocara cati Infection in Cats ( Felis catus): A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Animals (Basel) 2024; 14:1022. [PMID: 38612261 PMCID: PMC11011152 DOI: 10.3390/ani14071022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2024] [Revised: 03/22/2024] [Accepted: 03/24/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Toxocariasis is an infection caused in canines, felines, humans, and other vertebrates by species of the genus Toxocara, such as T. canis and T. cati. The embryonated eggs of these parasites are the primary means of acquiring the infection for both definitive hosts, dogs and cats, respectively, and for intermediates, such as humans and other vertebrates. When deposited on park soils, environmental contamination becomes a risk to environmental, human, and animal health. Objective: To determine the global prevalence of Toxocara cati in cats (Felis catus). Methods: A systematic review of the literature was carried out in six databases (Scopus, PubMed, ScienceDirect, SciELO and Google Scholar) to evaluate the global prevalence of Toxocara cati in cats, defined by coproparasitological, histological, and molecular techniques. A meta-analysis was performed using a random effects model to calculate pooled prevalence and 95% confidence intervals (95% CI). A two-tailed 5% alpha level was used for hypothesis testing. Results: Two hundred and eighty-nine studies were included. The global pooled prevalence of Toxocara cati in cats using coproparasitological methods was 17.0% (95.0% CI: 16.2-17.8%). In the subgroup analysis according to country, Nepal had the highest prevalence of T. cati infection (94.4%; 95% CI 89.7-99.2%). The pooled prevalence of T. cati infection by PCR in four studies was 4.9% (95.0% CI: 1.9-7.9%). Conclusions: This systematic review underscores the need for preventive action against toxocariasis due to its widespread prevalence. The interplay between animal and human health should be emphasised, necessitating measures like deworming cats, hygiene practices, and public education to mitigate risks. Safeguarding feline health can also reduce human transmission, benefiting both species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jorge Luis Bonilla-Aldana
- School of Veterinary Medicine and Zootehcnics, Faculty of Agricultural Sciences, Universidad de la Amazonia, Florencia 111321, Caquetá, Colombia; (J.L.B.-A.); (A.C.E.-N.)
| | - Alba Cristina Espinosa-Nuñez
- School of Veterinary Medicine and Zootehcnics, Faculty of Agricultural Sciences, Universidad de la Amazonia, Florencia 111321, Caquetá, Colombia; (J.L.B.-A.); (A.C.E.-N.)
| | | | - Alfonso J. Rodriguez-Morales
- Masters of Climate Change and Clinical Epidemiology and Biostatistics Program, Universidad Cientifica del Sur, Lima 15307, Peru;
- Gilbert and Rose-Marie Chagoury School of Medicine, Lebanese American University, Beirut P.O. Box 36-5053, Lebanon
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Poulsen CS, Yoshida A, Wellbrant TT, Leifsson PS, Skallerup P, Thamsborg SM, Nejsum P. Migratory pattern of zoonotic Toxocara cati and T. canis in experimentally infected pigs. Eur J Clin Microbiol Infect Dis 2024; 43:587-596. [PMID: 38261158 PMCID: PMC10917876 DOI: 10.1007/s10096-024-04753-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2023] [Accepted: 01/09/2024] [Indexed: 01/24/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Over a billion people are infected with Toxocara canis or T. cati, the roundworms of dogs and cats. Historically, T. canis has been considered the main species responsible for human toxocarosis, but as serodiagnosis cannot discriminate between the two species, this remains unresolved. We used pigs as a relevant large animal model for human infection to assess the migratory pattern of T. cati and T. canis. METHODS Pigs were inoculated with T. cati or T. canis eggs or PBS (negative controls) and necropsied 14 or 31 days later. Different organs and tissues were examined for parasites and pathological changes. RESULTS Overall, the two parasite species had a similar migration pattern reaching multiple organs and tissues, including the mesenteric lymph nodes, liver, lungs, and diaphragm. We recovered larvae of both species in the brain, suggesting that T. cati also can cause neurological toxocarosis in humans. Both species induced systemic eosinophilia and histopathological changes in the lungs, livers, and mesenteric lymph nodes. CONCLUSION This study emphasises the importance of T. cati as a zoonotic agent and the need to develop diagnostic methods that can differentiate between sources of infection in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Casper Sahl Poulsen
- COPSAC, Copenhagen Prospective Studies on Asthma in Childhood, Herlev and Gentofte Hospital, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Ayako Yoshida
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Miyazaki, Miyazaki, Japan
| | | | - Pall Skuli Leifsson
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | | | - Stig Milan Thamsborg
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Peter Nejsum
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Palle Juul-Jensens Boulevard 99, Aarhus N, 8200, Aarhus, Denmark.
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark.
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Henke K, Ntovas S, Xourgia E, Exadaktylos AK, Klukowska-Rötzler J, Ziaka M. Who Let the Dogs Out? Unmasking the Neglected: A Semi-Systematic Review on the Enduring Impact of Toxocariasis, a Prevalent Zoonotic Infection. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:6972. [PMID: 37947530 PMCID: PMC10649795 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20216972] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2023] [Revised: 09/28/2023] [Accepted: 10/17/2023] [Indexed: 11/12/2023]
Abstract
Toxocariasis remains an important neglected parasitic infection representing one of the most common zoonotic infections caused by the parasite Toxocara canis or, less frequently, by Toxocara cati. The epidemiology of the disease is complex due to its transmission route by accidental ingestion of embryonated Toxocara eggs or larvae from tissues from domestic or wild paratenic hosts. Even though the World Health Organization and Centers for Disease Control classified toxocariasis amongst the top six parasitic infections of priority to public health, global epidemiological data regarding the relationship between seropositivity and toxocariasis is limited. Although the vast majority of the infected individuals remain asymptomatic or experience a mild disease, the infection is associated with important health and socioeconomic consequences, particularly in underprivileged, tropical, and subtropical areas. Toxocariasis is a disease with multiple clinical presentations, which are classified into five distinct forms: the classical visceral larva migrans, ocular toxocariasis, common toxocariasis, covert toxocariasis, and cerebral toxocariasis or neurotoxocariasis. Anthelmintic agents, for example, albendazole or mebendazole, are the recommended treatment, whereas a combination with topical or systemic corticosteroids for specific forms is suggested. Prevention strategies include educational programs, behavioral and hygienic changes, enhancement of the role of veterinarians, and anthelmintic regimens to control active infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katrin Henke
- Department of Internal Medicine, Thun Hospital, Krankenhausstrasse 12, 3600 Thun, Switzerland;
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Inselspital, University Hospital, University of Bern, 3008 Bern, Switzerland; (S.N.); (A.K.E.); (J.K.-R.)
| | - Sotirios Ntovas
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Inselspital, University Hospital, University of Bern, 3008 Bern, Switzerland; (S.N.); (A.K.E.); (J.K.-R.)
- Department of Visceral Surgery and Medicine, lnselspital, University Hospital, University of Bern, 3008 Bern, Switzerland
| | - Eleni Xourgia
- Department of Heart Surgery, lnselspital, University Hospital, University of Bern, 3008 Bern, Switzerland;
| | - Aristomenis K. Exadaktylos
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Inselspital, University Hospital, University of Bern, 3008 Bern, Switzerland; (S.N.); (A.K.E.); (J.K.-R.)
| | - Jolanta Klukowska-Rötzler
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Inselspital, University Hospital, University of Bern, 3008 Bern, Switzerland; (S.N.); (A.K.E.); (J.K.-R.)
| | - Mairi Ziaka
- Department of Internal Medicine, Thun Hospital, Krankenhausstrasse 12, 3600 Thun, Switzerland;
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Inselspital, University Hospital, University of Bern, 3008 Bern, Switzerland; (S.N.); (A.K.E.); (J.K.-R.)
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Abbas I, Al-Araby M, Elmishmishy B, El-Alfy ES. Gastrointestinal parasites of cats in Egypt: high prevalence high zoonotic risk. BMC Vet Res 2022; 18:420. [PMID: 36447265 PMCID: PMC9706847 DOI: 10.1186/s12917-022-03520-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2022] [Accepted: 11/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Several gastrointestinal parasites that infect cats pose potential health threats for humans and animals. The present study is the first to report gastrointestinal (GIT) parasites in feces of stray cats from Gharbia governorate, Egypt. Findings were combined with those published in the earlier surveys from various Egyptian governorates, and various meta-analyses were conducted to underline the parasitic zoonoses from cats in Egypt. RESULTS Out of 143 samples tested in Gharbia, 75 (52.4%) were found infected with 13 different parasites. Co-infections were observed in 49.3% of positives. Several parasites were detected, e.g., Toxocara cati (30.0%), Toxascaris leonina (22.4%), hookworms (8.4%), taeniids (4.2%), Strongyloides spp. (2.1%), Physaloptera spp. (2.1%), Alaria spp. (1.4%) and Dipylidium caninum (0.7%). Opisthorchis-like eggs were found in a single sample being the first report from cats in Africa. Oocysts of 4 coccidian parasites were identified, and a few Toxoplasma gondii-like oocysts were detected in 2 samples (1.4%). Results of the meta-analysis illustrated that occurrence of T. gondii oocysts in feces of cats from Egypt may have been overestimated in earlier studies; 1432 cats have been tested and displayed a 5 times higher pooled prevalence (11.9%) than the published global pooled prevalence for T. gondii oocysts in cats. This overestimation might have occurred because some small-sized oocysts that belong to other coccidian parasites were mis-identified as T. gondii. Toxocara cati had a high pooled prevalence (22.5%) in cats from Egypt, which is even greater than the published pooled prevalence in cats globally; however, several reports from Egypt have neglected the role of T. cati in human toxocarosis. Dipylidium caninum displayed also a high prevalence (26.7%). CONCLUSION Several zoonotic parasite species have been found in stray cats from Egypt, raising concerns about the risks to the Egyptian human population as well as environmental contamination. Prompt surveillance supervised by the government and accompanied by data dissemination will be helpful for developing effective control strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ibrahim Abbas
- grid.10251.370000000103426662Parasitology Department, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura, 35516 Egypt
| | - Moustafa Al-Araby
- grid.10251.370000000103426662Parasitology Department, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura, 35516 Egypt
| | - Bassem Elmishmishy
- grid.10251.370000000103426662Parasitology Department, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura, 35516 Egypt
| | - El-Sayed El-Alfy
- grid.10251.370000000103426662Parasitology Department, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura, 35516 Egypt
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Where Have All the Diagnostic Morphological Parasitologists Gone? J Clin Microbiol 2022; 60:e0098622. [PMID: 36314793 PMCID: PMC9667774 DOI: 10.1128/jcm.00986-22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Advances in laboratory techniques have revolutionized parasitology diagnostics over the past several decades. Widespread implementation of rapid antigen detection tests has greatly expanded access to tests for global parasitic threats such as malaria, while next-generation amplification and sequencing methods allow for sensitive and specific detection of human and animal parasites in complex specimen matrices.
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High Toxocara cati prevalence in wild, free-ranging Eurasian lynx (Lynx lynx) in Finland, 1999–2015. Int J Parasitol Parasites Wildl 2022; 17:205-210. [PMID: 35198374 PMCID: PMC8850750 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijppaw.2022.02.004] [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: 11/17/2021] [Revised: 02/06/2022] [Accepted: 02/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
In Finland, free-ranging Eurasian lynx (Lynx lynx) population has grown from 30 to 40 individuals to 2800 individuals since the species became partly protected in 1962. Changes in host population size are known to have an impact on host-parasite dynamics, and the Eurasian lynx population in Finland provides a unique opportunity for studying the potential effects of dramatic population increase and expansion of a solitary apex predator on their parasite prevalence and abundance. Toxocara cati is a zoonotic gastrointestinal parasite infecting domestic cats and wild felids worldwide. We studied T. cati infection prevalence and worm burden in 2756 Eurasian lynx individuals from Finland, covering the years 1999–2015. Toxocara cati worms that had been collected from intestinal contents were identified based on morphology. We performed regression analyses to investigate possible associations of age, sex, and host population density with T. cati infection. We found T. cati from 2324 (84.3%, 95% confidence interval 82.9–86.0) of the examined lynx. Each year, the infection prevalence was higher than 75% and not density dependent. The parasites were strongly aggregated, with older individuals harboring fewer T. cati than younger ones did. Old females aged 9–15 years had higher T. cati abundance than males of the same age group. Our results indicate that T. cati was a common and abundant parasite of Eurasian lynx throughout the study period, regardless of the changing population size and density. 84% of 2756 Eurasian lynx (Lynx lynx) from Finland had Toxocara cati infection. The prevalence was high throughout 1999–2015, while lynx population size tripled. Old female lynx had significantly higher Toxocara cati abundance than old males.
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Maciag L, Morgan ER, Holland C. Toxocara: time to let cati ‘out of the bag’. Trends Parasitol 2022; 38:280-289. [DOI: 10.1016/j.pt.2021.12.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2021] [Revised: 12/04/2021] [Accepted: 12/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
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Fonseca GRE, Corral MA, Paula FMD, Meisel DMCL, Gryschek RCB, Lescano SAZ. Toxocara canis 30-35 kDa excretory-secretory antigen is an important marker in mice challenged by inocula containing different parasite load levels. Rev Inst Med Trop Sao Paulo 2022; 64:e9. [PMID: 35137903 PMCID: PMC8815846 DOI: 10.1590/s1678-9946202264009] [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: 11/04/2021] [Accepted: 01/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The Western-blotting technique was applied to identify antigenic fractions of excretory-secretory Toxocara canis antigen recognized by IgG antibodies throughout an experimental infection in mice challenged by different inocula. Mice were inoculated with 5, 50 and 500 embryonated eggs and serum samples were collected 15, 30, 60, 90 and 120 days post-infection. Serum samples were analyzed using an excretory-secretory Toxocara antigen. Antibodies recognized antigenic fractions from 30 to 90 kDa. The protein fraction of 30-35 kDa was the most frequently recognized regardless of the size of inoculum and the stage of infection represented by the different collection times, but the antigenic recognition was more evident in groups infected with 50 and 500 eggs. This study presents an antigenic panel of the excretory-secretory antigen of T. canis and suggests that the 30-35 kDa antigenic fraction is a promising marker of the infection and should be further explored in future studies on experimental toxocariasis.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Fabiana Martins de Paula
- Universidade de São Paulo, Brazil; Universidade de São Paulo, Brazil; Universidade de São Paulo, Brazil
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Rodrigues E Fonseca G, Baptista de Melo G, Martins de Paula F, Mello Malta F, Borges Gryschek RC, Zevallos Lescano SA. Toxocara DNA amplification in serum and tissue samples in BALB/c mice. Mol Biochem Parasitol 2021; 246:111429. [PMID: 34774570 DOI: 10.1016/j.molbiopara.2021.111429] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2021] [Revised: 10/29/2021] [Accepted: 11/08/2021] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Toxocariasis is still a neglected parasitic disease worldwide and much about its biology and diagnosis has yet to be understood. The migration of third stage larvae via bloodstream suggests a potential use of molecular tools in diagnosis as well to deepen the knowledge about its migration behaviors. Conventional PCR was applied in serum and tissue samples from BALB/c mice infected with 5 and 500 embryonated eggs. Blood samples were collected at 15, 30, 60, 90 and 120 days post-infection. Organs were excised at 170 days post infection. There was no DNA amplification in serum samples in any group or day post-infection; contrarily, tissue samples showed DNA amplification. These results also support a continuous larval migration after and/or simultaneously with the neurotropic-myotropic phase. Thus, molecular tools might be useful as a differential diagnosis method, but do not replace immunodiagnostics techniques.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriela Rodrigues E Fonseca
- Laboratório de Investigação Médica Imunopatologia da Esquistossomose (LIM-06), Hospital das Clínicas da Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo, Av. Dr Eneas Carvalho de Aguiar, 470, 05403-000, São Paulo, SP, Brazil; Instituto de Medicina Tropical da Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo. Avenida Dr. Eneas Carvalho de Aguiar, 470, 05403-000, São Paulo, SP, Brazil.
| | - Gessica Baptista de Melo
- Laboratório de Investigação Médica Imunopatologia da Esquistossomose (LIM-06), Hospital das Clínicas da Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo, Av. Dr Eneas Carvalho de Aguiar, 470, 05403-000, São Paulo, SP, Brazil; Instituto de Medicina Tropical da Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo. Avenida Dr. Eneas Carvalho de Aguiar, 470, 05403-000, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Fabiana Martins de Paula
- Laboratório de Investigação Médica Imunopatologia da Esquistossomose (LIM-06), Hospital das Clínicas da Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo, Av. Dr Eneas Carvalho de Aguiar, 470, 05403-000, São Paulo, SP, Brazil; Instituto de Medicina Tropical da Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo. Avenida Dr. Eneas Carvalho de Aguiar, 470, 05403-000, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Fernanda Mello Malta
- Laboratório de Gastroenterologia Clínica Experimental (LIM-07), Hospital das Clínicas da Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo, Av. Dr Eneas Carvalho de Aguiar, 470, 05403-000, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Ronaldo Cesar Borges Gryschek
- Laboratório de Investigação Médica Imunopatologia da Esquistossomose (LIM-06), Hospital das Clínicas da Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo, Av. Dr Eneas Carvalho de Aguiar, 470, 05403-000, São Paulo, SP, Brazil; Instituto de Medicina Tropical da Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo. Avenida Dr. Eneas Carvalho de Aguiar, 470, 05403-000, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Susana Angélica Zevallos Lescano
- Laboratório de Investigação Médica Imunopatologia da Esquistossomose (LIM-06), Hospital das Clínicas da Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo, Av. Dr Eneas Carvalho de Aguiar, 470, 05403-000, São Paulo, SP, Brazil; Instituto de Medicina Tropical da Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo. Avenida Dr. Eneas Carvalho de Aguiar, 470, 05403-000, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
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Asadi N, Tappeh KH, Mohebbi I, Yousefi E, Khademvatan S. Screening of Cystic Echinococcosis and Toxocariasis in Urmia Municipal Workers, Northwest Iran. Infect Disord Drug Targets 2021; 21:220-229. [PMID: 32516106 DOI: 10.2174/1871526520666200609121400] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2019] [Revised: 04/16/2020] [Accepted: 04/22/2020] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Echinococcus granulosus and Toxocara spp., the causative agents of hydatid cyst and toxocariasis in humans and animals, are zoonotic infections with medical and veterinary significance respectively. AIM Herein, we aimed to investigate the seroprevalence of toxocariasis and cystic echinococcosis in Urmia municipal workers (gardeners and sweepers) in 2018 using ELISA assay. OBJECTIVE There is no precise report on the seroprevalence of toxocariasis and cystic echinococcosis in Urmia municipal workers using ELISA assay. Therefore, this study found an opportunity to investigate this subject. METHODS A total of 220 blood samples were obtained from municipal workers with an average age of 41.31 ± 9.42. Commercial anti-Toxocara canis and hydatid cyst ELISA kits were used to assess the seroprevalence rates. RESULTS Approximately, 14.5% and 2.3% of individuals were seropositive for toxocariasis and hydatidosis, respectively. Consuming unboiled milk and/or raw/uncooked meat and rural conditions are risk factors for toxocariasis. Regarding hydatidosis, consuming unwashed vegetables was the only statistically significant risk factor. Toxocara infection (p = 0.01), but not hydatid cyst (p = 0.05), is more prevalent among sweepers than municipal gardeners. CONCLUSION Due to the occupational condition of municipal workers, they are exposed to many infectious agents; thus, more researches should be done on these populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Negar Asadi
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center & Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran
| | - Khosrow Hazrati Tappeh
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center & Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran
| | - Iraj Mohebbi
- Social Determinants of Health Center, Occupational Medicine Center, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran
| | - Elham Yousefi
- Department of Medical Parasitology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Shahram Khademvatan
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center & Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran
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Giudice PAF, Lescano SAZ, Gonzáles WHR, Giuffrida R, Bandeira FN, Kmetiuk LB, Pires Dos Santos A, Biondo AW, Santarém VA. Serosurvey and associated risk factors of anti-Toxocara spp. antibodies in bovines from slaughterhouses of southeastern Brazil. Parasit Vectors 2021; 14:250. [PMID: 33975623 PMCID: PMC8111975 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-021-04755-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2021] [Accepted: 04/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Toxocariasis, caused by a nematode species of the genus Toxocara, has been described as one of the most prevalent zoonotic helminthiases worldwide. Human transmission may occur by ingesting Toxocara spp. larvae from raw or undercooked meat or organs; however, no comprehensive serosurvey study has been conducted to date investigating the role of cattle as paratenic hosts. The aim of the study reported here was to assess the prevalence of anti-Toxocara spp. antibodies and associated risk factors in bovines from two slaughterhouses located in Presidente Prudente, southeastern Brazil. METHODS Blood samples were collected and tested by indirect enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Cattle farmers voluntarily responded to an epidemiologic questionnaire. RESULTS Overall, 213 of the 553 (38.5%) bovine samples were assessed as seropositive for anti-Toxocara spp. antibodies by indirect ELISA. Multivariate analysis revealed that the source of beef cattle and the presence of dogs or cats at the farm were associated with seropositivity. The use of feedlot systems was associated with lower likelihood of seropositivity. CONCLUSIONS These results indicate a high level of anti-Toxocara seropositivity in slaughterhouse cattle, with potentially contaminated meat posing an infection risk to humans. In addition, the presence of dogs and cats where the slaughtered beef cattle were raised was statistically associated with bovine seropositivity, probably due to the overlapping environment at the farm and the lack of pet deworming. The use of feedlot systems was a protective factor likely due to the absence of dog and cat contact, elevated feeding troughs that avoid contact with contaminated soil or grass, and younger age at slaughter of feedlot cattle. In summary, bovines may be used as environmental sentinels of Toxocara spp. contamination, and high seropositivity of slaughterhouse cattle may indicate a potential risk of human toxocariasis through the ingestion of raw or undercooked contaminated meat.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paula Andreia Fabris Giudice
- Graduate College in Animal Sciences, University of Western São Paulo (UNOESTE), Rodovia Raposo Tavares km 572-Bairro Limoeiro, Presidente Prudente, São Paulo, 19050-920, Brazil
| | | | | | - Rogério Giuffrida
- Graduate College in Animal Sciences, University of Western São Paulo (UNOESTE), Rodovia Raposo Tavares km 572-Bairro Limoeiro, Presidente Prudente, São Paulo, 19050-920, Brazil
| | - Fernanda Nobre Bandeira
- Graduate College in Animal Sciences, University of Western São Paulo (UNOESTE), Rodovia Raposo Tavares km 572-Bairro Limoeiro, Presidente Prudente, São Paulo, 19050-920, Brazil
| | - Louise Bach Kmetiuk
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Federal University of Paraná, Curitiba, PR, 80035-050, Brazil
| | - Andrea Pires Dos Santos
- Department of Comparative Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, 47907, USA
| | - Alexander Welker Biondo
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Federal University of Paraná, Curitiba, PR, 80035-050, Brazil
| | - Vamilton Alvares Santarém
- Graduate College in Animal Sciences, University of Western São Paulo (UNOESTE), Rodovia Raposo Tavares km 572-Bairro Limoeiro, Presidente Prudente, São Paulo, 19050-920, Brazil.
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15
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Jimenez Castro PD, Sapp SG. Role of cats in human toxocarosis. COMPANION ANIMAL 2020; 26:1-8. [PMID: 35979067 PMCID: PMC9380441 DOI: 10.12968/coan.2020.0104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Toxocara cati, the feline ascarid, is ubiquitous in domestic cats globally and is increasingly recognised as an important zoonotic species. In the definitive host, infections with the adult ascarid usually do not present any clinical signs; if clinical signs do appear, it is usually in kittens infected with T. cati, especially by the transmammary route. Diseases may include cachexia, a pot-bellied appearance, respiratory disorders, diarrhoea, vomiting, among other signs, and these may present as early as 3 weeks of age. However, infections with Toxocara spp. larvae in paratenic hosts (including humans and many other animals), can result in serious complications from the migration of larvae. Historically, there has been an assumption that Toxocara canis was the most likely cause of Toxocara spp.-related disease; while it is probably true that T. canis is responsible for the majority of infections, it is important that those caused by T. cati are accurately identified so that the contribution of this parasite to human disease can be established and then handled appropriately. Overall, the detection of infections in cats and the control of parasite stages in the environment are essential to minimise the infection risk to other animals or humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pablo David Jimenez Castro
- Department of Infectious Diseases, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Georgia, 244 Eaglewood Court, Athens, Georgia, 30606 US, Grupo de Parasitología Veterinaria, Universidad Nacional de Colombia
| | - Sarah Gh Sapp
- US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Center for Global Health, Division of Parasitic Diseases and Malaria.1600 Clifton Rd NE, MS H24-3, Atlanta, GA 30329
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Romero C, Heredia R, Bolio M, Miranda L, Reyes L, Arredondo M, Flores A. Comparison of In Vitro Efficacy of Six Disinfectants on the Hatching of Larval Eggs of Toxocara canis. IRANIAN JOURNAL OF PARASITOLOGY 2020; 15:315-320. [PMID: 33082795 PMCID: PMC7548458 DOI: 10.18502/ijpa.v15i3.4195] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Background: The environmental contamination with Toxocara canis eggs increases the risk of dissemination and transmission of the parasite in dogs and paratenic hosts such as humans. We aimed to evaluate different disinfectants to compare their effect on T. canis eggs. Methods: For its realization, 850 embryonated eggs were obtained, which were suspended in a solution of 5% formaldehyde and distilled water in Eppendorf tubes. In the tubes containing the 850 embryonated eggs, researchers was added 0.5 mL of each solution (enzymatic solution, sodium hypochlorite, iodopovidone, quaternary of ammonium, benzalkonium chloride, and super oxidation solution). After mixing, an aliquot was taken, observed under the microscope, and the number of broken eggs counted at different times to find the most effective ovicidal moment. Results: The enzymatic disinfectant present a significant difference (P = 0.05) with 276.06 broken eggs followed by ammonium with 105.20 broken eggs. After 10 min, the ammonium solution was the one that showed a significant difference of 50.50 hatched eggs, followed by the enzymatic 26.80 and hypochlorite 25.00 treatments. After 20 min, the enzymatic solution treatment showed a significant difference with the other solutions showing an increase of 98.80 broken eggs. In the 30 and 40-min times, only the enzymatic treatment showed a significant difference of 334.10 and 381.70 of broken eggs respectively. Conclusion: The enzymatic solution has the greatest ovicidal effect against the eggs of T. canis to present a greater number of broken eggs in a given time between 20 and 40 minutes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Camilo Romero
- Research Department, DERMAVET Veterinary Hospital, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Rafael Heredia
- Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources, UAEM Amecameca University Center, Autonomous University of the State of Mexico, State of Mexico, Mexico
| | - Manuel Bolio
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Zootechnics, Autonomous University of Yucatan, Mérida, Yucatán, México
| | - Laura Miranda
- Research Department, DERMAVET Veterinary Hospital, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Laura Reyes
- Research Department, DERMAVET Veterinary Hospital, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Mauricio Arredondo
- Department of Life Sciences, Guanajuato University, Irapuato-Salamanca Campus, Irapuato, Guanajuato, Mexico
| | - Ariadna Flores
- Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources, UAEM Amecameca University Center, Autonomous University of the State of Mexico, State of Mexico, Mexico
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17
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A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Toxocariasis in Iran: Is it Time to Take it Seriously? Acta Parasitol 2020; 65:569-584. [PMID: 32319035 DOI: 10.2478/s11686-020-00195-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2019] [Accepted: 03/11/2020] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Toxocariasis is one of the neglected zoonosis with considerable public health importance around the world. The current study aimed to elucidate the overall prevalence of Toxocara infection in human and definitive hosts and also the contamination of soil and raw vegetables with the ova of these parasites, in Iran, using systematic review and meta-analysis. METHODS Six English and Persian databases were explored from 2000 to 2017 using the terms toxocariasis, Toxocara spp., visceral larva migrans, Iran, epidemiology, and prevalence. This meta-analysis conducted using STATA, and for all statistical tests, a p value less than 0.05 was considered significant. The random-effects model was used to the report of the pooled prevalence with a 95% confidence interval (CI). RESULTS The pooled prevalence of toxocariasis in human was calculated as 11% (95% CI 8-13%). In terms of definitive hosts, the pooled prevalence of Toxocara infection in dogs and cats were calculated as 17% (95% CI 14-20%) and 37% (95% CI 26-48%), respectively. Also, the pooled prevalence of Toxocara spp. eggs in the soil and raw vegetable samples were calculated as 18% (95% CI 13-23%) and 2% (95% CI 1-3%), respectively. CONCLUSIONS The results of current study demonstrate that toxocariasis should be taken more seriously by health authorities. Implementing an appropriate control program is necessary to reduce the incidence of this disease in Iran.
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18
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Kim HC, Hong EJ, Ryu SY, Park J, Cho JG, Yu DH, Chae JS, Choi KS, Park BK. Morphological and Molecular Characterization of Toxocara apodemi (Nematoda: Ascarididae) from Striped Field Mice, Apodemus agrarius, in Korea. THE KOREAN JOURNAL OF PARASITOLOGY 2020; 58:403-411. [PMID: 32871634 PMCID: PMC7462795 DOI: 10.3347/kjp.2020.58.4.403] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2020] [Accepted: 07/27/2020] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Adult ascarid worms from the field mice, Apodemus agrarius, were observed with a light and scanning electron microscope, and molecularly analized with 18S rRNA gene. In the scanning electron microscope, 3 prominent labia were present in the anterior end of male and female worms, but the interlabia and gubernaculum were absent. Scanning electron micrographs showed cervical alae as vestigial organs that looked like a slightly uplifted superficial sewing stitch. Total 6 pairs of post-cloacal papillae were observed on the tail of the male worms. The tail of female worms was blunt and conical shape with a spine-like structure, mucron. The eggs were sub-globular, coated with the albuminous layer and 73 by 82 μm in average size. The superficial pits of T. apodemi egg (mean 8.6×6.7 μm) are obviously bigger than those of Toxocara spp. The partial sequence of 18S rRNA showed the sequence homology of Toxocara canis (99.6%), Toxocara cati (99.4%), Toxascaris leonina (99.4%), and Toxocara vitulorum (99.2%). Conclusively, it was confirmed that ascarid nematodes, Toxocara apodemi, recovered from striped field mice in Korea are taxonomically conspecific relationship with genus Toxocara and genetic divergence from other Toxocara species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hyeon Cheol Kim
- College of Veterinary Medicine and Institute of Veterinary Science, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon 24289, Korea
| | - Eui Ju Hong
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Chungnam National University, Daejeon 34134, Korea
| | - Si Yun Ryu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Chungnam National University, Daejeon 34134, Korea
| | - Jinho Park
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Chonbuk National University, Iksan 54596, Korea
| | - Jeong Gon Cho
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Chonbuk National University, Iksan 54596, Korea
| | - Do Hyeon Yu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Gyeongsang National University, Jinju 52828, Korea
| | - Joon Seok Chae
- Laboratory of Veterinary Internal Medicine, BK21 PLUS Program for Creative Veterinary Science Research, Research Institute for Veterinary Science and College of Veterinary Medicine, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Korea
| | - Kyoung Seong Choi
- College of Ecology and Environmental Science, Kyungpook National University, Sangju 37224, Korea
| | - Bae Keun Park
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Chungnam National University, Daejeon 34134, Korea
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19
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Menegon YA, Pinheiro NB, Santos LM, Rodrigues PRC, Avila LFC, Conceição FR, Leite FPL. Toxocara canis infection may impair bovine herpesvirus type 5 immunization. Res Vet Sci 2020; 132:268-270. [PMID: 32693251 DOI: 10.1016/j.rvsc.2020.06.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2020] [Revised: 06/12/2020] [Accepted: 06/30/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Helminths have developed complex mechanisms to suppress the host immune response. These mechanisms may impair the host vaccine response. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of Toxocara spp. infection on the vaccine immune response to bovine herpesvirus type 5 (BoHV-5). First, 30 heifers received two doses of an experimental BoHV-5 vaccine. At 42nd days after the primo vaccination the vaccine efficacy was evaluated, and the presence of anti-Toxocara antibodies. Second, 20 Balb/c mice were divided into two groups, one infected with T. canis and the other without infection. After infection, both groups received two doses of vaccine. The vaccine immune response was assessed by BoHV-5 serum neutralization and splenic cytokines transcription by qPCR. All heifers positive for Toxocara spp. (40%) showed BoHV-5 SN titer ≤1:32, whereas heifers negative for Toxocara spp. (60%) had BoHV-5 SN titer ≥1: 128. Infected T. canis mice showed BoHV-5 SN titer ≤1:2, whereas mice not infected with T. canis BoHV-5 SN titer ≥1:8. Splenocytes from control mice stimulated with BoHV-5 had a significant (p < .05) mRNA transcription for the cytokines IL-12, IL-17, and IL-23, whereas the same cytokines were down-regulated in T. canis infected mice. These results suggest that Toxocara spp. infection may impair BoHV-5 immunization and should be considered for efficient herd immunization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Y A Menegon
- Federal University of Pelotas, Center for Technological Development, Biotechnology, 96160-900 Capão do Leão, RS, Brazil
| | - N B Pinheiro
- Federal University of Pelotas, Parasitology Graduate Program, 96160-900 Capão do Leão, RS, Brazil
| | - L M Santos
- Federal University of Pelotas, Center for Technological Development, Biotechnology, 96160-900 Capão do Leão, RS, Brazil
| | - P R C Rodrigues
- Federal University of Pelotas, Veterinary School, Laboratory of Virology, 96160-900 Capão do Leão, RS, Brazil
| | - L F C Avila
- Federal University of Rio Grande, Medicine School, Laboratory of Parasitology, Rio Grande 96203-900, RS, Brazil
| | - F R Conceição
- Federal University of Pelotas, Center for Technological Development, Biotechnology, 96160-900 Capão do Leão, RS, Brazil
| | - F P L Leite
- Federal University of Pelotas, Center for Technological Development, Biotechnology, 96160-900 Capão do Leão, RS, Brazil; Federal University of Pelotas, Parasitology Graduate Program, 96160-900 Capão do Leão, RS, Brazil.
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20
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Moura MQD, Terto WDDS, Avila LFDC, Campos VF, Domingues WB, Pinheiro NB, Capella GDA, Strothmann AL, Scaini CJ, Berne MEA. Quantification of Toxocara canis DNA by qPCR in mice inoculated with different infective doses. Parasitol Int 2020; 78:102134. [PMID: 32416257 DOI: 10.1016/j.parint.2020.102134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2020] [Revised: 05/07/2020] [Accepted: 05/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
The nematode Toxocara canis is of public health importance and is the main causative agent of toxocariasis in humans. This disease is difficult to diagnose due to several factors, including the possibility of cross-reactions with other nematodes in the ELISA. To overcome this problem, molecular tests have been recommended as an alternative to identify the parasite. The quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) technique was used in this study to identify and quantify the parasite load of T. canis in the mouse brain. To this end, 24 mice were divided into six groups, five of which were challenged with different infective doses of T. canis larvae (L3) (1000, 500, 250, 100 and 50 larvae), while the sixth group, uninfected, acted as negative control. Forty-five days after infection, the animals were euthanized to collect the brain, from which two portions of 20 mg of tissue were taken for DNA extraction, while the rest of the brain tissue was digested to quantify the number of larvae by microscopy. The number of DNA copies was calculated from the standard DNA quantification curve, showing values of E = 93.4%, R2 = 0.9655 and Y = -3.415. A strong positive correlation (R = 0, 81; p < .001) was found between the number of copies and the recovery of larvae from brain. However, the parasite's DNA was also identified even in animals from whose brain no larvae were recovered after tissue digestion. The results of this study therefore confirm that the qPCR technique can be a valuable tool for the detection and quantification of T. canis DNA in murine hosts, even in animals whose with tissues contain very few parasites.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Carlos James Scaini
- Faculdade de Medicina (FAMED) da Universidade Federal do Rio Grande (FURG), Rio Grande, Brazil
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21
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Ma G, Rostami A, Wang T, Hofmann A, Hotez PJ, Gasser RB. Global and regional seroprevalence estimates for human toxocariasis: A call for action. ADVANCES IN PARASITOLOGY 2020; 109:275-290. [PMID: 32381202 DOI: 10.1016/bs.apar.2020.01.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Human toxocariasis is a parasitic disease transmitted usually from dogs and/or cats that are infected with Toxocara species, and can be associated with a range of allergic, neurological and/or visual disorders. Recent epidemiological research has estimated that ~1.4 billion people worldwide, particularly in subtropical and tropical regions, are infected with, or exposed to Toxocara species, indicating that human toxocariasis is a neglected tropical disease. Here, we review recent research efforts, consider risk factors, discuss limitations in current seroprevalence estimates, and propose some future research directions towards improved awareness, surveillance, prevention and control of this neglected disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guangxu Ma
- Department of Veterinary Biosciences, Melbourne Veterinary School, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Ali Rostami
- Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine Research Center, Health Research Institute, Babol University of Medical Sciences, Babol, Iran
| | - Tao Wang
- Department of Veterinary Biosciences, Melbourne Veterinary School, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Andreas Hofmann
- Department of Veterinary Biosciences, Melbourne Veterinary School, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Peter J Hotez
- Texas Children's Hospital Center for Vaccine Development, Departments of Pediatrics and Molecular Virology & Microbiology, National School of Tropical Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, United States; Department of Biology, Baylor University, Waco, TX, United States; Hagler Institute for Advanced Studies at Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, United States
| | - Robin B Gasser
- Department of Veterinary Biosciences, Melbourne Veterinary School, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia.
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Zheng WB, Zou Y, Zhu XQ, Liu GH. Toxocara "omics" and the promises it holds for medicine and veterinary medicine. ADVANCES IN PARASITOLOGY 2020; 109:89-108. [PMID: 32381233 DOI: 10.1016/bs.apar.2020.01.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Toxocariasis is one of the most neglected worldwide zoonoses that is caused by larval nematode parasites of the genus Toxocara, Toxocara canis, and to a lesser extent, Toxocara cati, whose migration mechanism is still largely unknown. Fortunately, some advanced tools have been employed, such as genomics, transcriptomics, and proteomics, to better understand the molecular biology and regulatory mechanisms of Toxocara. Using genomics and transcriptomics, we can identify a large number of genes that participate in the development of Toxocara and the interaction of parasites and their hosts and can predict the functions of unknown genes by comparing them with other relevant species. Using proteomics, we can identify somatic proteins and excretory and secretory (ES) proteins that perform specific biological functions in tissue degradation, pathogen invasion, immune evasion or modulation. These "omics" techniques also can contribute enormously to the development of new drugs, vaccines and diagnostic tools for toxocariasis. In a word, by utilizing "omics", we can better understand the Toxocara and toxocariasis. In this review, we summarized the representative achievements in Toxocara and the interaction between Toxocara spp. and their hosts based on expressed sequence tags (ESTs), microarray gene expression, next-generation sequencing (NGS) technologies and liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS), hoping to better understand the molecular biology of Toxocara, and contribute to new progress in the application areas of new drugs, vaccines and diagnostic tool for toxocariasis in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wen-Bin Zheng
- Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Protein Engineering in Animal Vaccines, College of Veterinary Medicine, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha, China; State Key Laboratory of Veterinary Etiological Biology, Key Laboratory of Veterinary Parasitology of Gansu Province, Lanzhou Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Lanzhou, China
| | - Yang Zou
- State Key Laboratory of Veterinary Etiological Biology, Key Laboratory of Veterinary Parasitology of Gansu Province, Lanzhou Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Lanzhou, China
| | - Xing-Quan Zhu
- State Key Laboratory of Veterinary Etiological Biology, Key Laboratory of Veterinary Parasitology of Gansu Province, Lanzhou Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Lanzhou, China; Jiangsu Co-innovation Center for the Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, Yangzhou University College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou, China.
| | - Guo-Hua Liu
- Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Protein Engineering in Animal Vaccines, College of Veterinary Medicine, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha, China.
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Abstract
Toxocara sp. are zoonotic parasitic roundworms that cause infection and morbidity in both developed and developing countries. In humans, infection is thought to be most common in children, particularly those living in poverty, and usually results from consumption of soil contaminated with parasite eggs deposited by dog or cat faeces. Infection in humans results in different clinical manifestations, some more overt like visceral or ocular larva migrans and others more cryptic like neurocognitive delay. Despite its pervasiveness, toxocariasis has become a neglected infection. We review the dynamics of the human-animal interface in the context of this parasite, discuss the challenges in controlling transmission to humans, and cite key areas of research that could enable improved interventions. With political will and proper resource allocation, we propose that effective interventions are possible in the near term.
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Nijsse R, Overgaauw P, Ploeger H, Mughini-Gras L. Sources of environmental contamination with Toxocara spp.: An omnipresent parasite. ADVANCES IN PARASITOLOGY 2020; 109:585-614. [PMID: 32381219 DOI: 10.1016/bs.apar.2020.01.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Embryonated Toxocara eggs in the environment are considered to be the most important source of human toxocariasis. These eggs, however, are also a source of infection for the definitive and paratenic hosts. Most available literature focuses on Toxocara canis in dogs, or other canids. There are, however, other Toxocara species with their accompanying definitive hosts. Results from studies that modelled patent infections in dogs, cats and foxes show that although dogs are a very important source for environmental contamination with Toxocara eggs, other sources cannot be ignored. For a good understanding of the relative contributions of different definitive hosts to environmental contamination with Toxocara eggs, computational models should be built and fed with data from different fields of expertise as is discussed in this paper.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rolf Nijsse
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Immunology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands.
| | - Paul Overgaauw
- Division of Veterinary Public Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Institute for Risk Assessment Sciences, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Harm Ploeger
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Immunology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Lapo Mughini-Gras
- Division of Veterinary Public Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Institute for Risk Assessment Sciences, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands; National Institute for Public Health and the Environment, Centre for Infectious Disease Control (CIb), Bilthoven, The Netherlands
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Lötsch F, Grobusch MP. Seroprevalence of Toxocara spp. antibodies in humans in Africa: A review. ADVANCES IN PARASITOLOGY 2020; 109:483-499. [PMID: 32381214 DOI: 10.1016/bs.apar.2020.01.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Human toxocariasis occurs worldwide and is caused by nematodes of the species of the genus Toxocara. Infection occurs by the ingestion of eggs and is usually asymptomatic or oligosymptomatic. However, severe manifestations occur. The burden of disease and its public health impact remain ill-defined. The aim of this review was to summarize all available data on the seroprevalence of toxocariasis on the African continent and factors associated with seropositivity. METHODS Twenty-seven original papers published between 1991 and 2017 were identified that provided data suitable for this review. Case-control studies were included and the seroprevalence in the (healthy) control group was used as a surrogate parameter. RESULTS Antibodies against Toxocara spp. were found to be frequent in most populations and regions in Africa with the exception of two publications, one from the Democratic Republic of the Congo and one from Djibouti, where all participants were seronegative. The highest proportion of participants with antibodies was found on the island of La Réunion with 359 out 387 study participants being positive (92.8%). Factors associated with seropositivity were reported across studies, including-among others-older age, contact with soil via geophagia, agricultural activity or playing with soil, contact with animals, especially dogs, and low socio-economic status, defined as absence of water supply or poor housing. Three Egyptian studies found male gender to be associated with toxocariasis, whereas in La Réunion females were at increased risk. CONCLUSIONS Exposure to toxocariasis seems to be very frequent and common in large parts of the African continent. However, no data are available for most countries. The public health impact of human toxocariasis and the frequency of severe manifestations remain unclear.
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Affiliation(s)
- Felix Lötsch
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine, Department of Medicine, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Martin Peter Grobusch
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Centre of Tropical Medicine and Travel Medicine, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, location AMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
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Baalbaki M, El Najjar M, Atweh S, El Ayoubi NK. Toxocara infection in the differential diagnosis of multiple sclerosis in the Middle East. Mult Scler J Exp Transl Clin 2020; 6:2055217319855757. [PMID: 35145728 PMCID: PMC8822452 DOI: 10.1177/2055217319855757] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2019] [Accepted: 05/18/2019] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
A critical step in the diagnosis of multiple sclerosis is to rule out a heterogeneous variety of multiple sclerosis mimickers, which is crucial in the era of powerful immune-modulator treatments. In this review, we discuss the background of toxocariasis in general, present central nervous system Toxocara infection as one of the multiple sclerosis mimickers in the Middle East, and share our experience about the diagnosis and management of this condition. This entity seems very relevant in a region such as the Middle East, where displacement of populations and conflict can result in non-hygienic food and water management bundles. The diagnosis should be entertained, especially when assessing patients with myelopathy. The presence of a single lesion in the spinal cord with inflammatory features should prompt serological testing for Toxocara IgG and IgM in serum and the cerebrospinal fluid. This infection is treatable, with the regimen of high-dose albendazole being one of the most accepted treatments. Although most cases exhibit a good prognosis, some have residual deficits localized to the affected spinal cord level.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Mayssam El Najjar
- Nehme and Therese Tohme Multiple Sclerosis Center, American University of Beirut Medical Center, Lebanon
| | - Samir Atweh
- Department of Neurology, American University of Beirut Medical Center, Lebanon
| | - Nabil K El Ayoubi
- American University of Beirut, Cairo street, Beirut, 1107 2020, Lebanon
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Nguyen YTH, Hayata Y, Sonoda S, Nonaka N, Maruyama H, Yoshida A. Establishment of a serodiagnosis system for the detection of Toxocara spp. and Ascaris suum infection in chickens. Parasitol Int 2019; 75:102022. [PMID: 31711975 DOI: 10.1016/j.parint.2019.102022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2019] [Revised: 08/01/2019] [Accepted: 11/07/2019] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
Chickens are considered to act as paratenic hosts for agents, Toxocara canis, T. cati and Ascaris suum; which cause ascarid larva migrans syndrome (ascarid LMS) in humans. In addition, they are the definitive host for Ascaridia galli, considered not to be infective for humans. All ascarid parasites can have a high homology of antigenicity, leading to cross-reactivity in serodiagnostic assays. This study was conducted to establish a procedure for the serological detection of those roundworm infections in chickens. Twenty-five male Julia chickens were divided into five groups (n = 5); T. canis-, T. cati-, Ascaris suum- and Ascaridia galli-infected, and an uninfected control group. In Ascaris suum-soluble worm antigen preparation (As-SWAP) ELISA, all infected groups showed an elevation of anti-ascarid antibodies, indicating the usefulness of As-SWAP as a screening antigen for the detection of ascarid infections. For infecting species identification, T. canis-excretory/secretory (Tc-ES) and Ascaris suum-ES (As-ES) antigen ELISA were conducted by serial dilution sera. Toxocara spp.-infected sera showed stronger binding to Tc-ES than As-ES, while Ascaris suum and Ascaridia galli-infected sera bound to As-ES more strongly than Tc-ES. To discriminate between Ascaris suum and Ascaridia galli infection, sera were pre-incubated with Ascaridia galli-SWAP antigen and applied to Tc-ES and As-ES ELISAs. In this pre-adsorbed ES antigen ELISAs, only the Ascaris suum infected group showed positive binding to As-ES, resulting from the adsorption of cross-reactive antibodies in Ascaridia galli-infected sera. Finally, anti-Toxocara specific antibodies were confirmed by Tc-ES western blot (WB). Toxocara spp.-infected sera showed toxocariasis-specific band pattern in Tc-ES WB, while no specific band appeared on any strip incubated with Ascaris suum, Ascaridia galli-infected and uninfected sera. In conclusion, the serodiagnostic assays evaluated in this study are useful for the detection of ascarid infections in chickens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yen Thi Hoang Nguyen
- Laboratory of Veterinary Parasitic Diseases, Department of Veterinary Sciences, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Miyazaki, 1-1, Gakuen-Kibanadai Nishi, Miyazaki 889-2192, Japan; Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary medicine, Vietnam National University of Agriculture, Trau Quy, Gia Lam, Ha Noi, Viet Nam
| | - Yayoi Hayata
- Laboratory of Veterinary Parasitic Diseases, Department of Veterinary Sciences, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Miyazaki, 1-1, Gakuen-Kibanadai Nishi, Miyazaki 889-2192, Japan
| | - Shino Sonoda
- Laboratory of Veterinary Parasitic Diseases, Department of Veterinary Sciences, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Miyazaki, 1-1, Gakuen-Kibanadai Nishi, Miyazaki 889-2192, Japan
| | - Nariaki Nonaka
- Laboratory of Veterinary Parasitic Diseases, Department of Veterinary Sciences, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Miyazaki, 1-1, Gakuen-Kibanadai Nishi, Miyazaki 889-2192, Japan; Centre for Animal Disease Control (CADIC), University of Miyazaki, 1-1, Gakuen-Kibanadai Nishi, Miyazaki 889-2192, Japan
| | - Haruhiko Maruyama
- Division of Parasitology, Department of Infectious Diseases, Faculty of Medicine, University of Miyazaki 5200 Kihara, Kiyotake-cho, Miyazaki 889-1692, Japan
| | - Ayako Yoshida
- Laboratory of Veterinary Parasitic Diseases, Department of Veterinary Sciences, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Miyazaki, 1-1, Gakuen-Kibanadai Nishi, Miyazaki 889-2192, Japan; Centre for Animal Disease Control (CADIC), University of Miyazaki, 1-1, Gakuen-Kibanadai Nishi, Miyazaki 889-2192, Japan.
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A systematic review and meta-analysis of canine, feline and human Toxocara infections in sub-Saharan Africa. J Helminthol 2019; 94:e96. [PMID: 31679534 DOI: 10.1017/s0022149x19000889] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
Toxocariasis is an emerging zoonotic disease caused by Toxocara canis and T. cati. Toxocariasis and its etiological agents are of global public health importance, whose burden appears underestimated, especially in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). The diversity in the transmission routes of these parasites contributes to disease prevalence and often hinders disease control measures. This study aimed to review the epidemiological distribution of Toxocara infections in SSA region. A systematic review and meta-analysis were performed using PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis). We identified 94 relevant, peer-reviewed articles, out of which, 75 articles were found eligible based on Toxocara infections in dogs, cats and humans. Overall, 27,102 samples were examined for T. canis in dogs, T. cati in cats and Toxocara serology in humans, out of which 6142 were positive for Toxocara infection: 3717 (13.7%) in dogs (faecal, 3487; necropsy, 180; hair, 50); 266 (1%) in cats (faecal, 101; necropsy, 165); and 2159 (8%) in humans (serology). Overall mean prevalences of 19% (95% confidence interval (CI): 14-23%), 9% (95% CI: 0-28%) and 36% (95% CI: 24-49%) were recorded in dogs, cats and humans, respectively. Substantial heterogeneity was observed between studies and subgroups (I2 = 99%, P < 0.01). Findings from the review showed that studies on the epidemiology of Toxocara infections in the SSA region are limited. We strongly recommend focused, collaborative and coordinated studies to determine Toxocara spp. prevalence in various hosts, including food animals and the environment, through a 'One Health' approach across SSA countries.
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Rostami A, Ma G, Wang T, Koehler AV, Hofmann A, Chang BCH, Macpherson CN, Gasser RB. Human toxocariasis - A look at a neglected disease through an epidemiological 'prism'. INFECTION GENETICS AND EVOLUTION 2019; 74:104002. [PMID: 31412276 DOI: 10.1016/j.meegid.2019.104002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2019] [Revised: 08/07/2019] [Accepted: 08/09/2019] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Toxocariasis, a disease caused by infection with larvae of Toxocara canis, T. cati and/or congeners, represents clinical syndromes in humans including visceral and ocular larva migrans, neurotoxocariasis and covert/common toxocariasis. It is reported to be one of the most widespread public health and economically important zoonotic parasitic infections that humans share with dogs, wild canids, including foxes, and possibly other mammals. Humans become infected by accidental ingestion of embryonated Toxocara eggs, or larvae from tissues from domestic or wild paratenic hosts. Most infections are asymptomatic, and human disease may go unnoticed, as clinical investigation is often not pursued and/or diagnostic testing not conducted. Sometimes toxocariasis can be associated with complications, such as allergic and/or neurological disorders, possibly including cognitive or developmental delays in children. There is no anti-toxocariasis vaccine, and chemotherapy in humans varies, depending on symptoms and location of larvae, and may include the administration of albendazole or mebendazole, together with anti-inflammatory corticosteroids. Some recent studies indicate that toxocariasis is having an increased, adverse impact on human health in some, particularly underprivileged, tropical and subtropical communities around the world. Although tens of millions of people, especially children, are expected to be exposed to, or infected with Toxocara species, there is limited precise epidemiological data or information on the relationship between seropositivity and disease (toxocariasis) on a global scale. To gain an improved insight into this area, the present article reviews salient clinical aspects of human toxocariasis and the epidemiology of this disease, with particular reference to seroprevalence, and discusses future research and approaches/measures to understand and prevent/control this socioeconomically important, yet neglected zoonosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali Rostami
- Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine Research Center, Health Research Institute, Babol University of Medical Sciences, Babol, Iran
| | - Guangxu Ma
- Department of Veterinary Biosciences, Melbourne Veterinary School, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Tao Wang
- Department of Veterinary Biosciences, Melbourne Veterinary School, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Anson V Koehler
- Department of Veterinary Biosciences, Melbourne Veterinary School, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Andreas Hofmann
- Department of Veterinary Biosciences, Melbourne Veterinary School, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Bill C H Chang
- Department of Veterinary Biosciences, Melbourne Veterinary School, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Calum N Macpherson
- School of Graduate Studies, St. George's University, Grenada; School of Veterinary Medicine, St. George's University, Grenada; Windward Islands Research and Education Foundation, Grenada
| | - Robin B Gasser
- Department of Veterinary Biosciences, Melbourne Veterinary School, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia.
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Ma G, Jiang A, Luo Y, Luo Y, Huang H, Zhou R. Aquaporin 1 is located on the intestinal basolateral membrane in Toxocara canis and might play a role in drug uptake. Parasit Vectors 2019; 12:243. [PMID: 31101125 PMCID: PMC6525457 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-019-3500-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2019] [Accepted: 05/09/2019] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Aquaporins (AQPs) are a family of integral membrane channel proteins that facilitate the transport of water and other small solutes across cell membranes. AQPs appear to play crucial roles in parasite survival and represent possible drug targets for novel intervention strategy. In this work, we investigated the tissue distribution and biological roles of an aquaporin TcAQP1 in the neglected parasitic nematode Toxocara canis. Methods Recombinant C-terminal hydrophilic domain of AQP1 of T. canis (rTcAQP1c) and polyclonal antibody against rTcAQP1c were produced to analyse the tissue expression of native TcAQP1 in adult (female and male) worms using an immunohistochemical approach. RNA interference (RNAi), quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) and nematocidal assays were performed to investigate the functional roles of TcAQP1 in the adult stage of T. canis. Results Immunofluorescence analysis showed that TcAQP1 was localised predominantly in the epithelial linings of the reproductive tract and basolateral membrane of the intestine in the adult stage (female and male) of T. canis, indicating important roles in reproduction, nutrient absorption and/or osmoregulation. Treatment with silencing RNA for 24 h resulted in a significant reduction of Tc-aqp-1 mRNA level in adult T. canis, though no phenotypical change was observed. The efficient gene knockdown compromised the nematocidal activity of albendazole in vitro, suggesting the role of TcAQP1 in drug uptake. Conclusions The findings of this study provide important information about tissue expression and functional roles of TcAQP1 protein in adult T. canis. Understanding the biological functions of this protein in other developmental stages of T. canis and related parasitic nematodes would contribute to the discovery of novel diagnostic or anthelmintic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guangxu Ma
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, College of Animal Science, Southwest University, Chongqing, 402460, The People's Republic of China.,Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, 3010, Australia
| | - Aiyun Jiang
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, College of Animal Science, Southwest University, Chongqing, 402460, The People's Republic of China
| | - Yongfang Luo
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, College of Animal Science, Southwest University, Chongqing, 402460, The People's Republic of China
| | - Yongli Luo
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, College of Animal Science, Southwest University, Chongqing, 402460, The People's Republic of China
| | - Hancheng Huang
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, College of Animal Science, Southwest University, Chongqing, 402460, The People's Republic of China
| | - Rongqiong Zhou
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, College of Animal Science, Southwest University, Chongqing, 402460, The People's Republic of China.
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Ma G, Holland CV, Wang T, Hofmann A, Fan CK, Maizels RM, Hotez PJ, Gasser RB. Human toxocariasis. THE LANCET. INFECTIOUS DISEASES 2018; 18:e14-e24. [PMID: 28781085 DOI: 10.1016/s1473-3099(17)30331-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 249] [Impact Index Per Article: 41.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2017] [Revised: 04/21/2017] [Accepted: 05/11/2017] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Parasitic nematodes of the genus Toxocara are socioeconomically important zoonotic pathogens. These parasites are usually directly transmitted to the human host via the faecal-oral route and can cause toxocariasis and associated complications, including allergic and neurological disorders. Although tens of millions of people are estimated to be exposed to or infected with Toxocara spp, global epidemiological information on the relationship between seropositivity and toxocariasis is limited. Recent findings suggest that the effect of toxocariasis on human health is increasing in some countries. Here we review the salient background on Toxocara and biology, summarise key aspects of the pathogenesis, diagnosis, and treatment of toxocariasis, describe what is known about its geographic distribution and prevalence, and make some recommendations for future research towards the prevention and control of this important disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guangxu Ma
- Department of Veterinary Biosciences, Melbourne Veterinary School, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Celia V Holland
- Department of Zoology, School of Natural Sciences, Trinity College, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Tao Wang
- Department of Veterinary Biosciences, Melbourne Veterinary School, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Andreas Hofmann
- Griffith Institute for Drug Discovery, Griffith University, Nathan, QLD, Australia
| | - Chia-Kwung Fan
- Department of Molecular Parasitology and Tropical Diseases, School of Medicine & Research Center of International Tropical Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Rick M Maizels
- Wellcome Centre for Molecular Parasitology, Institute for Infection, Immunity and Inflammation, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - Peter J Hotez
- Texas Children's Hospital Center for Vaccine Development, National School of Tropical Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA; Department of Pediatrics, National School of Tropical Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA; Department of Molecular Virology & Microbiology, National School of Tropical Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Robin B Gasser
- Department of Veterinary Biosciences, Melbourne Veterinary School, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia.
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Toxocariasis in humans in Africa - A systematic review. Travel Med Infect Dis 2017; 20:15-25. [PMID: 29037977 DOI: 10.1016/j.tmaid.2017.10.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2017] [Revised: 09/26/2017] [Accepted: 10/11/2017] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Toxocariasis is a globally distributed zoonosis. The most important definitive hosts are dogs, whereas humans serve as paratenic hosts. Transmission to humans occurs by accidental ingestion of eggs, e.g. by consumption of contaminated fruits or vegetables. Although exposure to Toxocara is usually considered as relatively benign, it is implicated in a range of neurological, ophthalmologic and other organ-specific conditions, some of them with grave consequences. This review provides an overview on the epidemiology, presentation and risk factors of exposure to Toxocara in Africa. METHODS A systematic search was performed for studies published after January 1st, 1990, in English, French, Portuguese, Spanish, Dutch or German. The review was prepared according to PRISMA guidelines. Studies on toxocariasis in human populations and contamination in human environments were included. RESULTS Sixty-five papers were included. Antibodies against Toxocara spp. in humans were found to be very common across Africa. Severe manifestations have been reported mainly from North Africa. Environmental contamination including soil, vegetables and fruits sold on markets was demonstrated in various locations in Africa. CONCLUSIONS Exposure to Toxocara is prevalent across the African continent. However, the complication frequency, the impact of the condition on the individual and the public health relevance of this zoonosis, and the economic impact have never been systematically evaluated.
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Sapp SG, Gupta P, Martin MK, Murray MH, Niedringhaus KD, Pfaff MA, Yabsley MJ. Beyond the raccoon roundworm: The natural history of non-raccoon Baylisascaris species in the New World. Int J Parasitol Parasites Wildl 2017; 6:85-99. [PMID: 28529879 PMCID: PMC5429227 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijppaw.2017.04.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2017] [Accepted: 04/18/2017] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
A total of 10 species of Baylisascaris, a genus of ascaridoid nematodes, occur worldwide and 6 of them occur in the New World. Most of the Baylisascaris species have a similar life cycle with carnivorous mammals or marsupials serving as definitive hosts and a smaller prey host serving as paratenic (or intermediate) hosts. However, one species in rodents is unique in that it only has one host. Considerable research has been conducted on B. procyonis, the raccoon roundworm, as it is a well-known cause of severe to fatal neurologic disease in humans and many wildlife species. However, other Baylisascaris species could cause larva migrans but research on them is limited in comparison. In addition to concerns related to the potential impacts of larva migrans on potential paratenic hosts, there are many questions about the geographic ranges, definitive and paratenic host diversity, and general ecology of these non-raccoon Baylisascaris species. Here, we provide a comprehensive review of the current knowledge of New World Baylisascaris species, including B. columnaris of skunks, B. transfuga and B. venezuelensis of bears, B. laevis of sciurids, B. devosi of gulonids, B. melis of badgers, and B. potosis of kinkajou. Discussed are what is known regarding the morphology, host range, geographic distribution, ecoepidemiology, infection dynamics in definitive and paratenic hosts, treatment, and control of these under-studied species. Also, we discuss the currently used molecular tools used to investigate this group of parasites. Because of morphologic similarities among larval stages of sympatric Baylisascaris species, these molecular tools should provide critical insight into these poorly-understood areas, especially paratenic and definitive host diversity and the possible risk these parasites pose to the health to the former group. This, paired with traditional experimental infections, morphological analysis, and field surveys will lead to a greater understanding of this interesting and important nematode genus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah G.H. Sapp
- Southeastern Cooperative Wildlife Disease Study, Department of Population Health, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, USA
- Department of Infectious Diseases, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, USA
| | - Pooja Gupta
- Savannah River Ecology Lab, University of Georgia, Aiken, SC, USA
- Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, USA
| | - Melissa K. Martin
- Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, USA
| | - Maureen H. Murray
- Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, USA
| | - Kevin D. Niedringhaus
- Southeastern Cooperative Wildlife Disease Study, Department of Population Health, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, USA
| | - Madeleine A. Pfaff
- Southeastern Cooperative Wildlife Disease Study, Department of Population Health, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, USA
- Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, USA
| | - Michael J. Yabsley
- Southeastern Cooperative Wildlife Disease Study, Department of Population Health, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, USA
- Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, USA
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Molecular characterization and transcriptional analysis of the female-enriched chondroitin proteoglycan 2 of Toxocara canis. J Helminthol 2017; 92:154-160. [PMID: 28434412 DOI: 10.1017/s0022149x17000359] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
Toxocara canis is an important but neglected zoonotic parasite, and is the causative agent of human toxocariasis. Chondroitin proteoglycans are biological macromolecules, widely distributed in extracellular matrices, with a great diversity of functions in mammals. However, there is limited information regarding chondroitin proteoglycans in nematode parasites. In the present study, a female-enriched chondroitin proteoglycan 2 gene of T. canis (Tc-cpg-2) was cloned and characterized. Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) was employed to measure the transcription levels of Tc-cpg-2 among tissues of male and female adult worms. A 485-amino-acid (aa) polypeptide was predicted from a continuous 1458-nuleotide open reading frame and designated as TcCPG2, which contains a 21-aa signal peptide. Conserved domain searching indicated three chitin-binding peritrophin-A (CBM_14) domains in the amino acid sequence of TcCPG2. Multiple alignment with the inferred amino acid sequences of Caenorhabditis elegans and Ascaris suum showed that CBM_14 domains were well conserved among these species. Phylogenetic analysis suggested that TcCPG2 was closely related to the sequence of chondroitin proteoglycan 2 of A. suum. Interestingly, a high level of Tc-cpg-2 was detected in female germline tissues, particularly in the oviduct, suggesting potential roles of this gene in reproduction (e.g. oogenesis and embryogenesis) of adult T. canis. The functional roles of Tc-cpg-2 in reproduction and development in this parasite and related parasitic nematodes warrant further functional studies.
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Eosinophilic Myocarditis due to Toxocariasis: Not a Rare Cause. Case Rep Cardiol 2016; 2016:2586292. [PMID: 27123346 PMCID: PMC4830700 DOI: 10.1155/2016/2586292] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2015] [Revised: 02/28/2016] [Accepted: 03/17/2016] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Myocarditis is a clinically important disease because of the high mortality. From the perspective of treatment strategy, eosinophilic myocarditis should be distinguished from other types of myocarditis. Toxocariasis, caused by Toxocara canis or Toxocara cati, is known as a cause of eosinophilic myocarditis but is considered rare. As it is an unpopular disease, eosinophilic myocarditis due to toxocariasis may be underdiagnosed. We experienced two cases of eosinophilic myocarditis due to toxocariasis from different geographical areas in quick succession between 2013 and 2014. Case 1 is 32-year-old man. Case 2 is 66-year-old woman. In both cases, diagnosis was done by endomyocardial biopsy and IgG-ELISA against Toxocara excretory-secretory antigen. Only a corticosteroid was used in Case 1, whereas a corticosteroid and albendazole were used in Case 2 as induction therapy. Both patients recovered. Albendazole was also used in Case 1 to prevent recurrence after induction therapy. Eosinophilic myocarditis by toxocariasis may in actuality not be a rare disease, and corticosteroid is an effective drug as induction therapy even before use of albendazole.
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Abstract
PURPOSE Toxocariasis is a widespread zoonosis, which may result in central nervous system injury. METHODS We conducted a systematic literature review in MEDLINE, SciELO, ScienceDirect and Google Scholar up to April 2015 using a combination of the following search terms: "neurotoxocariasis" or "neurotoxocarosis", "toxocariasis" or "toxocarosis" and "cerebral" or "neurologic". RESULTS One hundred cases of neurotoxocariasis were identified in literature. The majority of patients were male (58 %), with a median age of 42 years. The predominant clinical pictures were myelitis (60 %), encephalitis (47 %) and/or meningitis (29 %). Fever was inconstant (23 %). The suspected mode of transmission, mentioned in only 49 % of cases, was mainly contact with dogs and/or cats (67 %) and ingestion of contaminated food (31 %). Diagnostic imaging examinations found hypodense lesions in cerebral scanner sequences and hyperintense lesions in cerebral MRI T2-weighted sequences in 65 and 57 % of encephalitis cases respectively, and in 92 % of myelitis cases in medullary MRI T2-weighted sequences. The detection of antibodies against Toxocara spp. was almost constant in blood and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), 99 and 93 %, respectively. The two most commonly used drugs were corticosteroids (72 %) and/or albendazole (68 %) for a period of at least 3 weeks, which often needed to be repeated. Despite a low mortality rate (6 %), complete remission was observed in only 40 % of cases. CONCLUSIONS Neurotoxocariasis, a completely preventable zoonosis, could lead to severe sequelae failing prompt diagnosis. A compatible clinical picture, presence of risk factors, blood eosinophilia and high titers of antibodies against Toxocara spp. in CSF should alert physicians.
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Abstract
Human toxocarosis is a chronic tissue parasitosis most often caused by Toxocara canis. The seroprevalence can reach up to 50%, especially among children and adolescents. The anthelmintics used in the treatment have moderate efficacy. The aim of this study was to evaluate the in vitro and in vivo anthelmintic activity of quinones and their derivatives against T. canis larvae and the cytotoxicity of the larvicidal compounds. The compounds were evaluated at 1 mg mL(-1) concentration in microculture plates containing third stage larvae in an Roswell Park Memorial Institute (RPMI) 1640 environment, incubated at 37 °C in 5% CO2 tension for 48 h. Five naphthoxiranes were selected for the cytotoxicity analysis. The cell viability evaluated by 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide and lactate dehydrogenase assays using murine peritoneal macrophages isolated from C57BL/6 mice revealed that the naphthoxiranes (1 and 3) were less cytotoxic at a concentration of 0.05 mg mL(-1). The efficacy of naphthoxiranes (1 and 3) was examined in murine toxocarosis also. The anthelmintic activity was examined by evaluating the number of larvae in the brain, carcass, liver, lungs, heart, kidneys and eyes. Compound (3) demonstrated anthelmintic activity similar to that of albendazole by decreasing the number of larvae in the organs of mice and thus could form the basis of the development of a new anthelmintic drug.
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Abstract
SUMMARYToxocara species infect a wide range of companion, domestic and wild animals as definitive and paratenic hosts, via multiple routes of transmission, producing long-lived tissue-inhabiting larvae and resistant eggs that can survive in the external environment. Therefore Toxocara and the disease it causes in humans, toxocariasis, represents an ideal aetiological agent for the development of the one health approach. However, despite increasing awareness of the public health significance of toxocariasis, gaps in our understanding of certain key aspects of the parasite's biology and epidemiology remain. These gaps hinder our ability to integrate research effort within the veterinary, medical and environmental disciplines. This review will highlight key deficits in our understanding of nine dimensions of Toxocara epidemiology and discuss a potential scenario to develop a more integrated, one health approach to improve our understanding of the prevention and control of this complex and cryptic zoonosis.
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Le TH, Anh NTL, Nguyen KT, Nguyen NTB, Thuy DTT, Gasser RB. Toxocara malaysiensis infection in domestic cats in Vietnam--An emerging zoonotic issue? INFECTION GENETICS AND EVOLUTION 2015; 37:94-8. [PMID: 26584512 DOI: 10.1016/j.meegid.2015.11.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2015] [Revised: 11/05/2015] [Accepted: 11/12/2015] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Toxocara canis of canids is a parasitic nematode (ascaridoid) that infects humans and other hosts, causing different forms of toxocariasis. This species of Toxocara appears to be the most important cause of human disease, likely followed by Toxocara cati from felids. Although some studies from Malaysia and China have shown that cats can harbor another congener, T. malaysiensis, no information is available about this parasite for other countries. Moreover, the zoonotic potential of this parasite is unknown at this point. In the present study, we conducted the first investigation of domestic dogs and cats for Toxocara in Vietnam using molecular tools. Toxocara malaysiensis was identified as a common ascaridoid of domestic cats (in the absence of T. cati), and T. canis was commonly found in dogs. Together with findings from previous studies, the present results emphasize the need to explore the significance and zoonotic potential of T. malaysiensis in Vietnam and other countries where this parasite is endemic and prevalent in cats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thanh Hoa Le
- Institute of Biotechnology, Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology, 18. Hoang Quoc Viet Rd, Cau Giay, Hanoi, Vietnam.
| | - Nguyen Thi Lan Anh
- Department of Parasitology, National Institute of Veterinary Research, 86 Truong Chinh, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Khue Thi Nguyen
- Institute of Biotechnology, Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology, 18. Hoang Quoc Viet Rd, Cau Giay, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Nga Thi Bich Nguyen
- Institute of Biotechnology, Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology, 18. Hoang Quoc Viet Rd, Cau Giay, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Do Thi Thu Thuy
- Department of Parasitology, National Institute of Veterinary Research, 86 Truong Chinh, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Robin B Gasser
- Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
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Zahabiun F, Sadjjadi SM, Yunus MH, Rahumatullah A, Moghaddam MHF, Saidin S, Noordin R. Production of Toxocara cati TES-120 Recombinant Antigen and Comparison with its T. canis Homolog for Serodiagnosis of Toxocariasis. Am J Trop Med Hyg 2015; 93:319-25. [PMID: 26033026 DOI: 10.4269/ajtmh.15-0190] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2015] [Accepted: 04/14/2015] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
Toxocariasis is a cosmopolitan zoonotic disease caused by the infective larvae of Toxocara canis and T. cati. Diagnosis in humans is usually based on clinical symptoms and serology. Immunoglobulin G (IgG)-enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay kits using T. canis excretory-secretory (TES) larval antigens are commonly used for serodiagnosis. Differences in the antigens of the two Toxocara species may influence the diagnostic sensitivity of the test. In this study, T. cati recombinant TES-120 (rTES-120) was cloned, expressed, and compared with its T. canis homolog in an IgG4-western blot. The diagnostic sensitivity and specificity of T. cati rTES-120 were 70% (33/47) and 100% (39/39), respectively. T. canis rTES-120 showed 57.4% sensitivity and 94.4% specificity. When the results of assays using rTES-120 of both species were considered, the diagnostic sensitivity was 76%. This study shows that using antigens from both Toxocara species may improve the serodiagnosis of toxocariasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Farzaneh Zahabiun
- Institute for Research in Molecular Medicine, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Penang, Malaysia; Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran; Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Public Health and National Institute of Health Research, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Seyed Mahmoud Sadjjadi
- Institute for Research in Molecular Medicine, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Penang, Malaysia; Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran; Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Public Health and National Institute of Health Research, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Muhammad Hafiznur Yunus
- Institute for Research in Molecular Medicine, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Penang, Malaysia; Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran; Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Public Health and National Institute of Health Research, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Anizah Rahumatullah
- Institute for Research in Molecular Medicine, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Penang, Malaysia; Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran; Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Public Health and National Institute of Health Research, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad Hosein Falaki Moghaddam
- Institute for Research in Molecular Medicine, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Penang, Malaysia; Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran; Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Public Health and National Institute of Health Research, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Syazwan Saidin
- Institute for Research in Molecular Medicine, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Penang, Malaysia; Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran; Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Public Health and National Institute of Health Research, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Rahmah Noordin
- Institute for Research in Molecular Medicine, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Penang, Malaysia; Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran; Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Public Health and National Institute of Health Research, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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