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Mac Donald JW, Frean JA, Ratabane JM, Moodley B, Mannaru K, Holz GE. A case of babesiosis in a returning traveller. S Afr J Infect Dis 2024; 39:588. [PMID: 38628426 PMCID: PMC11019078 DOI: 10.4102/sajid.v39i1.588] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2023] [Accepted: 01/03/2024] [Indexed: 04/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Human babesiosis data in Africa is scarce. The clinical presentation and parasite morphology mimics falciparum malaria infection. Diagnostic confirmation is informed by adequate history and communication with the laboratory to activate appropriate testing. This case report describes the course of a returning traveller with persisting symptoms that resolved on tailored antimicrobial therapy following prompt collaborative diagnosis. Contribution Case highlighting overlapping characteristics of Babesia and malaria infection, necessitating close clinical and laboratory correlation to confirm diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- James W Mac Donald
- Department of Microbiology, Lancet Laboratories, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - John A Frean
- Centre for Emerging Zoonotic and Parasitic Diseases, National Institute for Communicable Diseases, Division of the National Health Laboratory Service, Johannesburg, South Africa
- Wits Research Institute for Malaria, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - John M Ratabane
- Centre for Emerging Zoonotic and Parasitic Diseases, National Institute for Communicable Diseases, Division of the National Health Laboratory Service, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Bhavani Moodley
- Centre for Emerging Zoonotic and Parasitic Diseases, National Institute for Communicable Diseases, Division of the National Health Laboratory Service, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Karissa Mannaru
- Department of Haematology, Lancet Laboratories, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Guillaume E Holz
- Specialist Physician, Private Practice, Johannesburg, South Africa
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Wang Y, Zhang S, Li X, Nian Y, Liu X, Liu J, Yin H, Guan G, Wang J. A high-resolution melting approach for the simultaneous differentiation of five human babesiosis-causing Babesia species. Parasit Vectors 2023; 16:299. [PMID: 37641091 PMCID: PMC10463647 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-023-05839-5] [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: 12/28/2022] [Accepted: 06/16/2023] [Indexed: 08/31/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Six species of apicomplexan parasites of the genus Babesia, namely B. microti, B. divergens, B. duncani, B. motasi, B. crassa-like and B. venatorum, are considered to be the primary causal agents of human babesiosis in endemic areas. These six species possess variable degrees of virulence for their primary hosts. Therefore, the accurate identification of these species is critical for the adoption of appropriate therapeutic strategies. METHODS We developed a real-time PCR-high-resolution melting (qPCR-HRM) approach targeting 18S ribosomal RNA gene of five Babesia spp. based on melting temperature (Tm) and genotype confidence percentage values. This approach was then evaluated using 429 blood samples collected from patients with a history of tick bites, 120 DNA samples mixed with plasmids and 80 laboratory-infected animal samples. RESULTS The sensitivity and specificity of the proposed qPCR-HRM method were 95% and 100%, respectively, and the detection limit was 1-100 copies of the plasmid with the cloned target gene. The detection level depended on the species of Babesia analyzed. The primers designed in this study ensured not only the high interspecific specificity of our proposed method but also a high versatility for different isolates from the same species worldwide. Additionally, the Tm obtained from the prepared plasmid standard is theoretically suitable for identifying isolates of all known sequences of the five Babesia species. CONCLUSIONS The developed detection method provides a useful tool for the epidemiological investigation of human babesiosis and pre-transfusion screening.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanbo Wang
- State Key Laboratory for Animal Disease Control and Prevention, Key Laboratory of Veterinary Parasitology of Gansu Province, Lanzhou Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Science, Lanzhou, Gansu People’s Republic of China
- The Second Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, People’s Republic of China
| | - Shangdi Zhang
- The Second Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xiaoyun Li
- State Key Laboratory for Animal Disease Control and Prevention, Key Laboratory of Veterinary Parasitology of Gansu Province, Lanzhou Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Science, Lanzhou, Gansu People’s Republic of China
| | - Yueli Nian
- State Key Laboratory for Animal Disease Control and Prevention, Key Laboratory of Veterinary Parasitology of Gansu Province, Lanzhou Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Science, Lanzhou, Gansu People’s Republic of China
- The Second Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xinyue Liu
- The Second Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, People’s Republic of China
| | - Junlong Liu
- State Key Laboratory for Animal Disease Control and Prevention, Key Laboratory of Veterinary Parasitology of Gansu Province, Lanzhou Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Science, Lanzhou, Gansu People’s Republic of China
| | - Hong Yin
- State Key Laboratory for Animal Disease Control and Prevention, Key Laboratory of Veterinary Parasitology of Gansu Province, Lanzhou Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Science, Lanzhou, Gansu People’s Republic of China
- Jiangsu Co-Innovation Center for the Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Disease and Zoonoses, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, 225009 China
| | - Guiquan Guan
- State Key Laboratory for Animal Disease Control and Prevention, Key Laboratory of Veterinary Parasitology of Gansu Province, Lanzhou Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Science, Lanzhou, Gansu People’s Republic of China
| | - Jinming Wang
- State Key Laboratory for Animal Disease Control and Prevention, Key Laboratory of Veterinary Parasitology of Gansu Province, Lanzhou Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Science, Lanzhou, Gansu People’s Republic of China
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Terletsky A, Akhmerova LG. Malignant human thyroid neoplasms associated with blood parasitic (haemosporidian) infection. RUSSIAN JOURNAL OF INFECTION AND IMMUNITY 2023. [DOI: 10.15789/2220-7619-mht-1948] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/09/2023]
Abstract
Investigation of archival cytological material obtained by cytologists during fine-needle aspiration biopsy in follicular, papillary, and medullary human thyroid cancers revealed haemosporidian (blood parasitic) infection. Haemosporidian infection was detected as exo- and intraerythrocytic stages of development in thyrocytes schizogony. The exoerythrocytic stage of development is represented as microschizonts in a thyroid needle biopsy specimen. Probably, blood parasitic infection is the common etiology for these pathologies. All biopsy material in medical laboratories was stained with RomanowskyGiemsa stain. To clarify the localization of nuclei (DNA) of thyrocytes and nuclei (DNA) of haemosporidian infection in cytological material following investigation of the entire set of smears, a selective series of original archival smears was stained (restained) with a Feulgen/Schiff reagent. Staining of smears with RomanowskyGiemsa stain is an adsorption method that enables re-use of the same smears for staining with a Feulgen/Schiff reagent where the fuchsin dye, after DNA hydrolysis by hydrochloric acid, is incorporated into DNA and stains it in redviolet (crimsonlilac) color. An intentionally unstained protoplasm of blood parasitic infection was present as a light band around erythrocyte nuclei. In follicular thyroid cancer, Feulgen staining of thyrocytes revealed nuclear DNA and parasitic DNA (haemosporidium nuclei) as point inclusions and rings and diffusely distributed in the thyrocyte cytoplasm. The thyrocyte cytoplasm and nuclei were vacuolated, with thyrocyte nuclei being deformed, flattened, and displaced to the cell periphery. The erythrocytes, which were initially stained with eosin (orange color), contained haemosporidian nuclei (DNA). In some cases, endoglobular inclusions in thyrocytes and erythrocytes were of the same size. In papillary thyroid cancer, we were able to localize the nuclear DNA of thyrocytes and the parasitic DNA as point inclusions and diffusely distributed in the thyrocyte cytoplasm. Two or more polymorphic nuclei may eccentrically occur in the hyperplastic cytoplasm. Haemosporidian microschizonts occurred circumnuclearly in thyrocytes and as an exoerythrocytic stage in the blood. The erythrocyte cytoplasm contained redviolet polymorphic haemosporidian nuclei (DNA). In medullary thyroid cancer, the hyperplastic cytoplasm of thyrocytes contained eccentrically located nuclei (DNA) of thyrocytes and small haemosporidian nuclei (DNA), which may occupy the whole thyrocyte. There were thyrocytes with vacuolated cytoplasm and pronounced nuclear polymorphism. The size of hyperplastic nuclei was several times larger than that of normal thyrocyte nuclei. The color of stained cytoplasmic and nuclear vacuoles of thyrocytes was less redviolet compared with that of surrounding tissues, which probably indicates the presence of parasitic DNA in them. The haemosporidian nuclear material in erythrocytes is represented by polymorphic nuclei, which may indicate the simultaneous presence of different pathogen species and/or generations in the blood. Intracellular parasitism of haemosporidian infection in thyrocytes (schizogony) associated with three thyroid cancers leads to pronounced cytoplasmic hyperplasia, cytoplasmic vacuolization, and nuclear vacuolization of the thyrocyte, followed by impaired secretory function. Multinucleated thyrocytes with incomplete cytokinesis appear. The absence of lytic death of the affected thyrocytes indicates that the contagium is able to control apoptosis and influence physiological functions of the cell. There is deformation of the nuclei, which leads to a decrease in their size, their flattening and displacement to the cell periphery, with high risk of DNA mutations and deletions in affected cells, reaching a neoplastic level.
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Lee S, Hong Y, Chung DI, Jang HK, Goo YK, Xuan X. Evolutionary analysis of Babesia vulpes and Babesia microti-like parasites. Parasit Vectors 2022; 15:404. [PMID: 36329533 PMCID: PMC9635067 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-022-05528-9] [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: 07/12/2022] [Accepted: 10/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The Babesia microti-like parasite is an emerging tick-borne piroplasm that has been detected in a range of hosts worldwide. Babesia vulpes, which is found in dogs and foxes, has been reclassified from B. microti-like parasites. The relationships among these B. microti-like parasites and B. vulpes with respect to host range and geographical origin have not been elucidated. Methods Blood samples were collected from 27 raccoon dogs in South Korea and used to screen for B. microti-like parasites based on a PCR assay targeting the 18S rRNA gene of Babesia. For comparative purposes, in addition to 18S rRNA sequences from nine raccoon dogs, we also analyzed 18S rRNA sequences from B. microti-like parasites infecting hosts in different geographical regions worldwide obtained from the GenBank database, giving 123 sequences in total. The genetic variation and evolutionary relationships among these sequences were examined based on analyses using DnaSP, MEGA, Arlequine, and BEAST software. Results Babesia microti-like parasites were identified in nine raccoon dogs and found to be related to B. vulpes obtained from Spanish dogs. Among the 123 sequences from 14 countries and various hosts, we identified 43 haplotypes with high genetic variance. Based on the genetic variance and phylogenetic analyses, we established that the B. microti-like parasites isolated in different geographical regions and from hosts belonging to five orders showed higher among-population variation than within-population variation. Babesia vulpes parasites infecting carnivore hosts, including raccoon dogs, foxes, skunks and dogs, appear to be genetically distinct from B. microti-like parasites infecting hosts belonging to the other orders. Conclusions Our study demonstrated the genetic variation and evolutionary relationships among 18S rRNA sequences obtained from blood samples collected from various hosts and different geographical regions. Babesia vulpes was identified from raccoon dogs in South Korea. In addition, higher genetic variations were observed among populations of different hosts and geographical origins and, in particular, low connectivity was observed among host populations in the order Carnivora and those in other orders. These results suggest the B. vulpes, a piroplasmid species pathogenic in domestic dogs and wild canines, is genetically and evolutionarily different from B. microti-like parasites. Graphical Abstract ![]()
Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13071-022-05528-9.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sanghyun Lee
- Division of Bio Bigdata, Department of Precision Medicine, Korea National Institute of Health, Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency, Cheongju, Chungbuk, South Korea
| | - Yeonchul Hong
- Department of Parasitology and Tropical Medicine, School of Medicine, Kyungpook National University, Daegu, South Korea
| | - Dong-Il Chung
- Department of Parasitology and Tropical Medicine, School of Medicine, Kyungpook National University, Daegu, South Korea
| | - Hyung-Kwan Jang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Jeonbuk National University, Iksan, Jeonbuk, South Korea
| | - Youn-Kyoung Goo
- Department of Parasitology and Tropical Medicine, School of Medicine, Kyungpook National University, Daegu, South Korea.
| | - Xuenan Xuan
- National Research Center for Protozoan Diseases, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro, Hokkaido, Japan.
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Godbole R, Gaur A, Nayar P, Kiruthiga KG, D’Costa P, Manchanda R, Khilari A, Shanmugam D, Muglikar KD, Kundu K. Case Report: A Fatal Case of Babesiosis in a Splenectomized Male Patient from Western India. Am J Trop Med Hyg 2022; 106:tpmd201118. [PMID: 35189595 PMCID: PMC9128672 DOI: 10.4269/ajtmh.20-1118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2020] [Accepted: 12/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
Human babesiosis is a rare disease, caused by Babesia species and commonly transmitted by tick bite. Although human babesiosis is known to be asymptomatic in immunocompetent hosts, clinical cases of severe babesiosis have been reported from splenectomized or immunocompromised individuals. To our knowledge, only one case of human babesiosis in India has been previously reported. Here, we report a case of severe babesiosis with high parasitemia (∼70%) in a 30-year-old asplenic farmer. The patient presented with fever, yellowish discoloration of skin, oliguria, and anemia; he eventually developed multiorgan failure syndrome and died. Peripheral blood films were prepared and used to confirm the presence of piroplasms by microscopy. Total DNA isolated from blood was used for 18S ribosomal RNA gene fragment amplification by polymerase chain reaction, which was subject to Sanger sequencing. Although 18S sequence indicated that the Babesia species infecting the patient was similar to that of other Babesia species originating from wild mammals, species identification could not be done. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that the patient-derived pathogen is distinct because it forms a separate clade in the cladogram.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ravi Godbole
- Department of Pathology, King Edward Memorial Hospital, Pune, India
| | - Avantika Gaur
- Department of Pathology, King Edward Memorial Hospital, Pune, India
| | - Priyanka Nayar
- Department of Pathology, King Edward Memorial Hospital, Pune, India
| | | | - Pradeep D’Costa
- Department of Pathology, King Edward Memorial Hospital, Pune, India
| | - Rumma Manchanda
- Department of Pathology, King Edward Memorial Hospital, Pune, India
| | - Ajinkya Khilari
- Biochemical Sciences Division, National Chemical Laboratory, Pune, India
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, India
| | - Dhanasekaran Shanmugam
- Biochemical Sciences Division, National Chemical Laboratory, Pune, India
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, India
| | | | - Krishnendu Kundu
- Department of Veterinary Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary and Animal Science, Rajiv Gandhi South Campus, Banaras Hindu University, Barkachha, Mirzapur, India
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Preliminary Investigation into Plasmodium-like Piroplasms (Babesia/Theileria) among Cattle, Dogs and Humans in A Malaria-Endemic, Resource-Limited Sub-Saharan African City. Med Sci (Basel) 2022; 10:medsci10010010. [PMID: 35225943 PMCID: PMC8883904 DOI: 10.3390/medsci10010010] [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: 12/17/2021] [Revised: 01/24/2022] [Accepted: 01/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Babesia and Theileria are protozoan parasites belonging to the order piroplasmida, transmitted by hard ticks, and can cause diseases known as piroplasmosis. Human infections are usually asymptomatic, except in immuno-compromised persons who present malaria-like symptoms. Moreover, microscopically, the morphologies of Babesia and Theileria can resemble that of the malaria parasite, Plasmodium. In malaria-endemic areas with limited resources, these similarities can increase the possibility of misdiagnosing a patient as having malaria instead of piroplasmosis, which may further lead to inappropriate choice of disease management. This preliminary investigation aimed at detecting Babesia/Theileria in cattle, dogs and humans in some parts of Accra. Whole blood samples were taken from febrile cattle (n = 30) and dogs (n = 33), as well as humans diagnosed with malaria (n = 150). Blood samples of all study subjects were microscopically screened for possible presence of haemoparasites. Samples whose smears had features suggestive of possible piroplasmic infection were all given the label “suspected Babesia/Theileria-infected” samples. Nested polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was performed on extracted deoxyribonucelic acid (DNA) from all the “suspected” samples of cattle, dogs and humans, with primer sets that can detect 18S rRNA genes of Babesia/Theileria spp. In addition to this, amplification was performed on the “suspected” dog samples using the BcW-A/BcW-B primer set which detects the 18S rRNA genes of B. canis, while the BoF/BoR primer set which targets the rap-1 region of B. bovis and another primer set which detects the 18S rRNA genes of most bovine Babesia spp. (including B. divergens) were used on the suspected cattle samples. For the human samples, however, additional amplification was done on the extracted DNA using primers for the three other Babesia targeted (B. divergens, B. bovis and B. canis). Microscopy showed possible Babesia/Theileria infection suspected in all three groups of subjects in the following proportions: cattle (10/30; 33%), dogs (3/33; 9%) and humans (6/150; 4%). DNA from one-third of the “suspected” dog samples yielded amplification with Babesia canis primers. Moreover, a broad-detecting set of primers (that can amplify some Babesia and Theileria species) amplified DNA from nine (9/30; 30%) of the “suspected” cattle samples, but none from those of the humans. Although for this study conducted in the city, the Babesia/Theileria primers used did not amplify DNA from the six “suspected” human samples; the possibility of Babesia/Theileria infection in humans in other parts of the country cannot be overruled. There is therefore a need for further studies on possible emergence of human babesiosis/theileriosis in other parts of Ghana and sequencing for specific identification of any circulating strain.
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Hussain S, Hussain A, Aziz MU, Song B, Zeb J, George D, Li J, Sparagano O. A Review of Zoonotic Babesiosis as an Emerging Public Health Threat in Asia. Pathogens 2021; 11:pathogens11010023. [PMID: 35055971 PMCID: PMC8779675 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens11010023] [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: 11/29/2021] [Revised: 12/21/2021] [Accepted: 12/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Zoonotic babesiosis poses a serious health risk in many parts of the world. Its emergence in Asia is thus a cause for significant concern, demanding that appropriate control measures are implemented to suppress its spread in this region. This study focuses on zoonotic Babesia species reported in Asia, offering an extensive review of those species reported in animals and humans. We reported 11 studies finding zoonotic Babesia species in animals and 16 in humans. In China, the most prevalent species was found to be Babesia microti, reported in both humans (n = 10) and wild and domesticated animals (n = 4). In Korea, only two studies reported human babesiosis, with a further two studies reporting Babesia microti in wild animals. Babesia microti was also reported in wild animal populations in Thailand and Japan, with evidence of human case reports also found in Singapore, Mongolia and India. This is the first review to report zoonotic babesiosis in humans and animals in Asia, highlighting concerns for future public health in this region. Further investigations of zoonotic species of Babesia in animal populations are required to confirm the actual zoonotic threat of babesiosis in Asia, as well as its possible transmission routes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sabir Hussain
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Public Health, Jockey Club College of Veterinary Medicine and Life Sciences, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR 999077, China; (M.U.A.); (B.S.); (J.Z.); (J.L.)
- Correspondence: (S.H.); (O.S.)
| | - Abrar Hussain
- Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Lahore 54600, Pakistan;
| | - Muhammad Umair Aziz
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Public Health, Jockey Club College of Veterinary Medicine and Life Sciences, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR 999077, China; (M.U.A.); (B.S.); (J.Z.); (J.L.)
| | - Baolin Song
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Public Health, Jockey Club College of Veterinary Medicine and Life Sciences, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR 999077, China; (M.U.A.); (B.S.); (J.Z.); (J.L.)
| | - Jehan Zeb
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Public Health, Jockey Club College of Veterinary Medicine and Life Sciences, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR 999077, China; (M.U.A.); (B.S.); (J.Z.); (J.L.)
| | - David George
- School of Natural and Environmental Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 7RU, UK;
| | - Jun Li
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Public Health, Jockey Club College of Veterinary Medicine and Life Sciences, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR 999077, China; (M.U.A.); (B.S.); (J.Z.); (J.L.)
| | - Olivier Sparagano
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Public Health, Jockey Club College of Veterinary Medicine and Life Sciences, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR 999077, China; (M.U.A.); (B.S.); (J.Z.); (J.L.)
- Correspondence: (S.H.); (O.S.)
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The Global Emergence of Human Babesiosis. Pathogens 2021; 10:pathogens10111447. [PMID: 34832603 PMCID: PMC8623124 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens10111447] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2021] [Revised: 10/28/2021] [Accepted: 10/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Babesiosis is an emerging tick-borne disease caused by intraerythrocytic protozoa that are primarily transmitted by hard-bodied (ixodid) ticks and rarely through blood transfusion, perinatally, and organ transplantation. More than 100 Babesia species infect a wide spectrum of wild and domestic animals worldwide and six have been identified as human pathogens. Babesia microti is the predominant species that infects humans, is found throughout the world, and causes endemic disease in the United States and China. Babesia venatorum and Babesia crassa-like agent also cause endemic disease in China. Babesia divergens is the predominant species in Europe where fulminant cases have been reported sporadically. The number of B. microti infections has been increasing globally in recent decades. In the United States, more than 2000 cases are reported each year, although the actual number is thought to be much higher. In this review of the epidemiology of human babesiosis, we discuss epidemiologic tools used to monitor disease location and frequency; demographics and modes of transmission; the location of human babesiosis; the causative Babesia species in the Americas, Europe, Asia, Africa, and Australia; the primary clinical characteristics associated with each of these infections; and the increasing global health burden of this disease.
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Bloch EM, Krause PJ, Tonnetti L. Preventing Transfusion-Transmitted Babesiosis. Pathogens 2021; 10:pathogens10091176. [PMID: 34578209 PMCID: PMC8468711 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens10091176] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2021] [Revised: 09/07/2021] [Accepted: 09/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Babesia are tick-borne intra-erythrocytic parasites and the causative agents of babesiosis. Babesia, which are readily transfusion transmissible, gained recognition as a major risk to the blood supply, particularly in the United States (US), where Babesia microti is endemic. Many of those infected with Babesia remain asymptomatic and parasitemia may persist for months or even years following infection, such that seemingly healthy blood donors are unaware of their infection. By contrast, transfusion recipients are at high risk of severe babesiosis, accounting for the high morbidity and mortality (~19%) observed in transfusion-transmitted babesiosis (TTB). An increase in cases of tick-borne babesiosis and TTB prompted over a decade-long investment in blood donor surveillance, research, and assay development to quantify and contend with TTB. This culminated in the adoption of regional blood donor testing in the US. We describe the evolution of the response to TTB in the US and offer some insight into the risk of TTB in other countries. Not only has this response advanced blood safety, it has accelerated the development of novel serological and molecular assays that may be applied broadly, affording insight into the global epidemiology and immunopathogenesis of human babesiosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Evan M. Bloch
- Division of Transfusion Medicine, Department of Pathology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21287, USA
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-410-614-4246
| | - Peter J. Krause
- Department of Epidemiology of Microbial Diseases, Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, CT 06520, USA;
| | - Laura Tonnetti
- Scientific Affairs, American Red Cross, Holland Laboratories, Rockville, MD 21287, USA;
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Stead D, du Plessis D, Sun LM, Frean J. Anthemosoma garnhami in an HIV-Infected Man from Zimbabwe Living in South Africa. Emerg Infect Dis 2021; 27:1991-1993. [PMID: 34152971 PMCID: PMC8237893 DOI: 10.3201/eid2707.204759] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
An HIV-positive man from Zimbabwe living in South Africa sought treatment for multiple clinical signs, including fever, weight loss, anemia, and splenomegaly. We identified in his blood an African rodent piroplasm, Anthemosoma garnhami, related to Babesia species. This finding extends the known geographic and host range of A. garnhami.
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Meftahi GH, Bahari Z, Zarei Mahmoudabadi A, Iman M, Jangravi Z. Applications of western blot technique: From bench to bedside. BIOCHEMISTRY AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY EDUCATION : A BIMONTHLY PUBLICATION OF THE INTERNATIONAL UNION OF BIOCHEMISTRY AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2021; 49:509-517. [PMID: 33847452 DOI: 10.1002/bmb.21516] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2020] [Accepted: 03/30/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Western blot (WB) or immunoblot is a workhorse method. It is commonly used by biologists for study of different aspects of protein biomolecules. In addition, it has been widely used in disease diagnosis. Despite some limitations such as long time, different applications of WB have not been limited. In the present review, we have summarized scientific and clinical applications of WB. In addition, we described some new generation of WB techniques.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Zahra Bahari
- Department of Physiology and Medical Physics, Faculty of Medicine, Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ali Zarei Mahmoudabadi
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Maryam Iman
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Faculty of Pharmacy, Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Zohreh Jangravi
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Nanobiotechnology Research Center, Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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12
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Emerging Human Babesiosis with "Ground Zero" in North America. Microorganisms 2021; 9:microorganisms9020440. [PMID: 33672522 PMCID: PMC7923768 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms9020440] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2021] [Revised: 02/15/2021] [Accepted: 02/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The first case of human babesiosis was reported in the literature in 1957. The clinical disease has sporadically occurred as rare case reports in North America and Europe in the subsequent decades. Since the new millennium, especially in the last decade, many more cases have apparently appeared not only in these regions but also in Asia, South America, and Africa. More than 20,000 cases of human babesiosis have been reported in North America alone. In several cross-sectional surveys, exposure to Babesia spp. has been demonstrated within urban and rural human populations with clinical babesiosis reported in both immunocompromised and immunocompetent humans. This review serves to highlight the widespread distribution of these tick-borne pathogens in humans, their tick vectors in readily accessible environments such as parks and recreational areas, and their phylogenetic relationships.
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13
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Wang X, Ren S, Yang X, Masoudi A, Xue X, Li M, Li H, Zhang X, Wang H, Liu J. Exploration of Serum Marker Proteins in Mice Induced by Babesia microti Infection Using a Quantitative Proteomic Approach. Protein J 2021; 40:119-130. [PMID: 33387247 DOI: 10.1007/s10930-020-09952-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/16/2020] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Babesia microti is a protozoan that mainly parasitizes rodent and human erythrocytes. B. microti infection can result in changes in the expression levels of various proteins in the host serum. To explore the mechanism underlying the regulation of serum proteins by the host during B. microti infection, this study used a data-independent acquisition (DIA) quantitative proteomic approach to perform comprehensive quantitative proteomic analysis on the serum of B. microti-infected mice. We identified and analysed 333 serum proteins during the infectious stage and recovery stage within 30 days of infection by B. microti in mice. Through quantitative analysis, we found 57 proteins differentially expressed in the infection stage and 69 proteins differentially expressed in the recovery stage. Bioinformatics analysis revealed that these differentially expressed proteins were mainly concentrated in organelles, cell parts, and extracellular regions that are mainly involved in immune system, metabolic, and cellular processes. Additionally, the differentially expressed proteins mainly had catalytic activity. Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genome (KEGG) pathway analysis showed that many of the differentially expressed proteins participate in the complement and coagulation cascade reaction, including complement C3, complement FP, and coagulation factor XII. The results of this study can provide more information for the selection of biomarkers for the early clinical monitoring of babesiosis and help in the treatment of babesiosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoshuang Wang
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Animal Physiology, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Life Sciences, Hebei Normal University, Shijiazhuang, 050024, Hebei, People's Republic of China
| | - Shuguang Ren
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Animal Physiology, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Life Sciences, Hebei Normal University, Shijiazhuang, 050024, Hebei, People's Republic of China.,The Fourth Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, 050011, Hebei, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaohong Yang
- Department of Pathogenic Biology, College of Basic Medicine, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, 050017, Hebei, People's Republic of China.,State Key Laboratory of Veterinary Etiological Biology, Lanzhou Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Lanzhou, 730046, Gansu, People's Republic of China
| | - Abolfazl Masoudi
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Animal Physiology, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Life Sciences, Hebei Normal University, Shijiazhuang, 050024, Hebei, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaomin Xue
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Animal Physiology, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Life Sciences, Hebei Normal University, Shijiazhuang, 050024, Hebei, People's Republic of China
| | - Mengxue Li
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Animal Physiology, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Life Sciences, Hebei Normal University, Shijiazhuang, 050024, Hebei, People's Republic of China
| | - Hongxia Li
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Animal Physiology, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Life Sciences, Hebei Normal University, Shijiazhuang, 050024, Hebei, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaojing Zhang
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Animal Physiology, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Life Sciences, Hebei Normal University, Shijiazhuang, 050024, Hebei, People's Republic of China
| | - Hui Wang
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Animal Physiology, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Life Sciences, Hebei Normal University, Shijiazhuang, 050024, Hebei, People's Republic of China. .,Hebei Normal University, 20 nanerhuan east road, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, People's Republic of China.
| | - Jingze Liu
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Animal Physiology, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Life Sciences, Hebei Normal University, Shijiazhuang, 050024, Hebei, People's Republic of China. .,Hebei Normal University, 20 nanerhuan east road, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, People's Republic of China.
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14
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Wei CY, Wang XM, Wang ZS, Wang ZH, Guan ZZ, Zhang LH, Dou XF, Wang H. High prevalence of Babesia microti in small mammals in Beijing. Infect Dis Poverty 2020; 9:155. [PMID: 33176879 PMCID: PMC7661193 DOI: 10.1186/s40249-020-00775-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2020] [Accepted: 11/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Babesiosis is an emerging tick-borne zoonotic infectious disease. Babesia microti is responsible for most cases of human babesiosis globally. It is important to investigate the prevalence of B. microti in the mammalian host population of a specific region in order to elucidate mechanisms of pathogen transmission and to define geographic areas where humans face the greatest risk of exposure. The aim of this study is to understand the prevalence and genotypes of B. microti in the small mammals that are found in Beijing, China. METHODS We trapped small mammals from all of the 16 urban, suburban, and outer suburban districts of Beijing during the years 2014, 2017 and 2018. Genomic DNA was extracted from the heart tissues individually and the Babesia 18S rRNA gene was detected by PCR. The genotypes of B. microti were identified based on sequence alignments and phylogenetic analysis. The morphology of the parasites was observed under light microscopy. The risk factors were analyzed statistically based on both univariate analyses and multivariate logistic regression. RESULTS A total of 1391 small mammals were collected. Positive infection of B. microti was detected in 12.1% (168/1391) of small mammals from 15 out of the 16 districts. Both Kobe-type and U.S.-type B. microti, accounting for 9.5% and 2.7%, respectively, were identified. Classic diverse morphologic forms of B. microti were observed. Specific types of ecological habitats including shrub areas, broad-leaved forest, and cropland were revealed to be risk factors associated with B. microti infection. CONCLUSIONS This study demonstrated the wide prevalence of B. microti infection in eight species of small mammals in Beijing, with Kobe-type more prevalent than U.S.-type. This study provides fundamental information for the development of informed prevention and control measures by public health authorities; the data gathered indicates a need for further monitoring of both clinical diseases in individuals presenting with babesiosis-like symptoms, as well as the infection status of ticks in high risk areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chun-Yan Wei
- Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & School of Basic Medicine, Peking Union Medical College, 5# Dong Dan San Tiao, Dongcheng District, Beijing, 100005, China
| | - Xiao-Mei Wang
- Institute for Infectious Disease and Endemic Disease Control, Beijing Center for Diseases Prevention and Control (Beijing Center for Preventive Medical Research), No. 16 Hepingli Middle Street, Dongcheng District, Beijing, 100013, China
| | - Zhen-Sheng Wang
- Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & School of Basic Medicine, Peking Union Medical College, 5# Dong Dan San Tiao, Dongcheng District, Beijing, 100005, China
| | - Zhi-Hua Wang
- Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & School of Basic Medicine, Peking Union Medical College, 5# Dong Dan San Tiao, Dongcheng District, Beijing, 100005, China.,Department of Immunology, Guilin Medical University, Guilin, 541000, Guangxi, China
| | - Zeng-Zhi Guan
- Institute for Infectious Disease and Endemic Disease Control, Beijing Center for Diseases Prevention and Control (Beijing Center for Preventive Medical Research), No. 16 Hepingli Middle Street, Dongcheng District, Beijing, 100013, China
| | - Lian-Hui Zhang
- Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & School of Basic Medicine, Peking Union Medical College, 5# Dong Dan San Tiao, Dongcheng District, Beijing, 100005, China
| | - Xiang-Feng Dou
- Institute for Infectious Disease and Endemic Disease Control, Beijing Center for Diseases Prevention and Control (Beijing Center for Preventive Medical Research), No. 16 Hepingli Middle Street, Dongcheng District, Beijing, 100013, China.
| | - Heng Wang
- Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & School of Basic Medicine, Peking Union Medical College, 5# Dong Dan San Tiao, Dongcheng District, Beijing, 100005, China.
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15
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW As human babesiosis caused by apicomplexan parasites of the Babesia genus is associated with transfusion-transmitted illness and relapsing disease in immunosuppressed populations, it is important to report novel findings relating to parasite biology that may be responsible for such pathology. Blood screening tools recently licensed by the FDA are also described to allow understanding of their impact on keeping the blood supply well tolerated. RECENT FINDINGS Reports of tick-borne cases within new geographical regions such as the Pacific Northwest of the USA, through Eastern Europe and into China are also on the rise. Novel features of the parasite lifecycle that underlie the basis of parasite persistence have recently been characterized. These merit consideration in deployment of both detection, treatment and mitigation tools such as pathogen inactivation technology. The impact of new blood donor screening tests in reducing transfusion transmitted babesiosis is discussed. SUMMARY New Babesia species have been identified globally, suggesting that the epidemiology of this disease is rapidly changing, making it clear that human babesiosis is a serious public health concern that requires close monitoring and effective intervention measures. Unlike other erythrocytic parasites, Babesia exploits unconventional lifecycle strategies that permit host cycles of different lengths to ensure survival in hostile environments. With the licensure of new blood screening tests, incidence of transfusion transmission babesiosis has decreased.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cheryl A Lobo
- Department of Blood-Borne Parasites, Lindsley Kimball Research Institute, New York Blood Center, New York, New York, USA
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16
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Elbaz E, Moustafa MAM, Lee K, Ching ALC, Shimozuru M, Sashika M, Nakao R, El-Khodery SA, Tsubota T. Utilizing attached hard ticks as pointers to the risk of infection by Babesia and Theileria species in sika deer (Cervus nippon yesoensis), in Japan. EXPERIMENTAL & APPLIED ACAROLOGY 2020; 82:411-429. [PMID: 33009646 DOI: 10.1007/s10493-020-00551-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2020] [Accepted: 09/18/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Ticks are hematophagous ectoparasites that have a significant impact on their animal hosts. Along with mosquitoes, they are the main arthropod vectors of disease agents in domestic animals, wildlife and humans. To investigate the occurrence and prevalence of piroplasmids in ticks, DNA was extracted from 519 hard ticks collected from 116 hunted Hokkaido sika deer (Cervus nippon yesoensis). The success of the DNA extraction was confirmed by touchdown PCR targeting the mitochondrial 16S rDNA gene of ticks. Touchdown PCR and reverse line blot (RLB) hybridization targeting the 18S rRNA gene were used to detect 14 piroplasm species. All hard ticks parasitizing Hokkaido sika deer were identified as belonging to the genera Ixodes and Haemaphysalis. In total 163 samples (31.4%) were positive for Babesia and Theileria spp. among tick species according to RLB hybridization. Tick DNA hybridized to the oligonucleotide probes of Theileria sp. Thrivae (27.0% of ticks; 140/519), Theileria capreoli (10.6%; 55/519), Babesia divergens-like (1.7%; 9/519), Babesia sp. (Bab-SD) (0.6%; 3/519), Babesia microti U.S. (0.4%; 2/519), and B. microti Hobetsu (0.4%; 2/519). The partial sequencing and phylogenetic analyses of the 18S rRNA gene confirmed the RLB hybridization results. Further investigations are needed to reveal the epidemiology and respective vectors of these pathogens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elzahara Elbaz
- Laboratory of Wildlife Biology and Medicine, Department of Environmental Veterinary Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Hokkaido University, North 18 West 9, Sapporo, Hokkaido, 060-0818, Japan
- Department of Internal Medicine and Infectious Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt
| | - Mohamed Abdallah Mohamed Moustafa
- Laboratory of Wildlife Biology and Medicine, Department of Environmental Veterinary Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Hokkaido University, North 18 West 9, Sapporo, Hokkaido, 060-0818, Japan
- Department of Animal Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, South Valley University, Qena, Egypt
| | - Kyunglee Lee
- Cetacean Research Institute, National Institute of Fisheries Science, Ulsan, Republic of Korea
| | - Alice Lau Ching Ching
- Laboratory of Wildlife Biology and Medicine, Department of Environmental Veterinary Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Hokkaido University, North 18 West 9, Sapporo, Hokkaido, 060-0818, Japan
| | - Michito Shimozuru
- Laboratory of Wildlife Biology and Medicine, Department of Environmental Veterinary Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Hokkaido University, North 18 West 9, Sapporo, Hokkaido, 060-0818, Japan
| | - Mariko Sashika
- Laboratory of Wildlife Biology and Medicine, Department of Environmental Veterinary Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Hokkaido University, North 18 West 9, Sapporo, Hokkaido, 060-0818, Japan
| | - Ryo Nakao
- Laboratory of Parasitology, Graduate School of Infectious Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Sabry Ahmed El-Khodery
- Department of Internal Medicine and Infectious Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt
| | - Toshio Tsubota
- Laboratory of Wildlife Biology and Medicine, Department of Environmental Veterinary Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Hokkaido University, North 18 West 9, Sapporo, Hokkaido, 060-0818, Japan.
- Laboratory of Wildlife Biology and Medicine, Department of Environmental Veterinary Sciences, Graduate School of Veterinary Medicine, Hokkaido University, North 18 West 9, Sapporo, Hokkaido, 060-0818, Japan.
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17
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Moustafa MAM, Sasaki A, Shimozuru M, Nakao R, Sashika M, Yamazaki K, Koike S, Tanaka J, Tamatani H, Yamanaka M, Ishinazaka T, Tsubota T. Molecular detection of apicomplexan protozoa in Hokkaido brown bears (Ursus arctos yesoensis) and Japanese black bears (Ursus thibetanus japonicus). Parasitol Res 2020; 119:3739-3753. [PMID: 33000433 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-020-06873-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2020] [Accepted: 08/30/2020] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Many tick-borne pathogens (TBPs) are present in wildlife. The objective of this study is to reveal the role of wild bears in maintaining TBPs. A total of 49 brown bears (Ursus arctos yesoensis) from Hokkaido, and 18 Japanese black bears (Ursus thibetanus japonicus) from Tochigi, and 66 Japanese black bears from Nagano were examined by two molecular methods, reverse line blot (RLB) hybridization, and nested PCR. A total of 5 TBPs (Hepatozoon ursi, Babesia sp. UR2-like group, Cytauxzoon sp. UR1, Babesia sp. UR1, and Babesia microti) were detected from bear blood DNA samples. B. microti was detected from blood DNA samples of Japanese black bear for the first time, with the prevalence of 6.0% (5/84). Out of detected pathogens, H. ursi, Babesia sp. UR2-like pathogens, and Cytauxzoon sp. UR1 were considered as three of the most prevalent TBPs in bears. The prevalence of H. ursi were significantly higher in Japanese black bear (0% vs 96.4%) while that of Babesia sp. UR2-like group was higher in Hokkaido brown bears (89.8% vs 40.5%). The prevalence of Babesia sp. UR1 were significantly higher in Japanese black bears from Tochigi (44.4%), comparing with those from Nagano (18.2%). The prevalence of the detected TBPs were significantly higher in adult bears, comparing with those in younger bears. The present study suggests that Japanese bear species contribute in the transmission of several TBPs in Japan. The expanding distribution of bears might cause the accidental transmission of TBPs to humans and domestic animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamed Abdallah Mohamed Moustafa
- Laboratory of Parasitology, Graduate School of Veterinary Medicine, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Hokkaido, Japan.,Department of Animal Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, South Valley University, Qena, Egypt
| | - Ayaka Sasaki
- Laboratory of Wildlife Biology and Medicine, Department of Environmental Veterinary Sciences, Graduate School of Veterinary Medicine, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Michito Shimozuru
- Laboratory of Wildlife Biology and Medicine, Department of Environmental Veterinary Sciences, Graduate School of Veterinary Medicine, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Ryo Nakao
- Laboratory of Parasitology, Graduate School of Veterinary Medicine, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Hokkaido, Japan
| | - Mariko Sashika
- Laboratory of Wildlife Biology and Medicine, Department of Environmental Veterinary Sciences, Graduate School of Veterinary Medicine, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Koji Yamazaki
- Department of Forest Science, Tokyo University of Agriculture, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Shinsuke Koike
- Institute of Global Innovation Research, Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, Tokyo, Japan.,United Graduate School of Agriculture Science, Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Junpei Tanaka
- Picchio Wildlife Research Center, Karuizawa, Nagano, Japan
| | - Hiroo Tamatani
- Picchio Wildlife Research Center, Karuizawa, Nagano, Japan
| | | | | | - Toshio Tsubota
- Laboratory of Wildlife Biology and Medicine, Department of Environmental Veterinary Sciences, Graduate School of Veterinary Medicine, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Japan.
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18
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Xia LY, Jiang BG, Yuan TT, von Fricken M, Jia N, Jiang RR, Zhang Y, Li XL, Sun Y, Ruan XD, Cao WC, Jiang JF. Genetic Diversity and Coexistence of Babesia in Ticks (Acari: Ixodidae) from Northeastern China. Vector Borne Zoonotic Dis 2020; 20:817-824. [PMID: 32749919 DOI: 10.1089/vbz.2020.2635] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Human babesiosis is an emerging zoonotic disease transmitted by ticks in China. A few systematic reports on Babesia spp. was involved with ticks, especially in the human babesiosis endemic areas in Northeastern China. Materials and Methods: Ticks were collected from 30 individual waypoints along 2.0 km transects in two recreational forests. Babesia spp. infection in ticks was screened by amplifying the partial 18s rRNA gene with subsequent sequencing. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to determine the association between tick infection and related environmental risk factors. Cluster analyses were performed using SaTScan v6.0 software to identify any geographical cluster of infected ticks. Results: A total of 2380 Ixodes persulcatus and 461 Haemaphysalis concinna ticks were collected. Of the 0.97% of I. persulcatus ticks that tested positive, five Babesia species were identified, including B. bigemina (n = 6), B. divergens (n = 2), B. microti (n = 3), B. venatorum (n = 11), and one novel strain HLJ-8. Thirteen (2.92%) H. concinna ticks tested positive for B. bigemina (n = 1), B. divergens (n = 1), three genetic variants of Babesia represented by HLJ-874, which was closely related to Babesia sp.MA#361-1, and eight other Babesia variants represented by HLJ242, which were similar to B. crassa. Each study site had 5-6 different Babesia spp. One waypoint was more likely to yield B. venatorum (relative risk = 15.36, p = 0.045) than all other waypoints. Conclusions: There exists a high genetic diversity of Babesia spp. across a relatively small sampled region. Further study is needed to understand the risks these variants pose to human health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luo-Yuan Xia
- Graduate School of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
- State Key Laboratory of Pathogens and Biosecurity, Beijing Institute of Microbiology and Epidemiology, Beijing, China
| | - Bao-Gui Jiang
- State Key Laboratory of Pathogens and Biosecurity, Beijing Institute of Microbiology and Epidemiology, Beijing, China
| | - Ting-Ting Yuan
- State Key Laboratory of Pathogens and Biosecurity, Beijing Institute of Microbiology and Epidemiology, Beijing, China
| | - Michael von Fricken
- Department of Global and Community Health, George Mason University, Fairfax, Virginia, USA
| | - Na Jia
- State Key Laboratory of Pathogens and Biosecurity, Beijing Institute of Microbiology and Epidemiology, Beijing, China
| | - Rui-Ruo Jiang
- State Key Laboratory of Pathogens and Biosecurity, Beijing Institute of Microbiology and Epidemiology, Beijing, China
| | - Yuan Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Pathogens and Biosecurity, Beijing Institute of Microbiology and Epidemiology, Beijing, China
| | - Xin-Lou Li
- State Key Laboratory of Pathogens and Biosecurity, Beijing Institute of Microbiology and Epidemiology, Beijing, China
| | - Yi Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Pathogens and Biosecurity, Beijing Institute of Microbiology and Epidemiology, Beijing, China
| | - Xiang-Dong Ruan
- Academy of Forest Inventory and Planning, National Forestry and Grassland Administration, Beijing, China
| | - Wu-Chun Cao
- State Key Laboratory of Pathogens and Biosecurity, Beijing Institute of Microbiology and Epidemiology, Beijing, China
| | - Jia-Fu Jiang
- Graduate School of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
- State Key Laboratory of Pathogens and Biosecurity, Beijing Institute of Microbiology and Epidemiology, Beijing, China
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19
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Zheng W, Umemiya-Shirafuji R, Chen S, Okado K, Adjou Moumouni PF, Suzuki H, Yang S, Liu M, Xuan X. Identification of Haemaphysalis longicornis Genes Differentially Expressed in Response to Babesia microti Infection. Pathogens 2020; 9:E378. [PMID: 32423088 PMCID: PMC7281432 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens9050378] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2020] [Revised: 05/02/2020] [Accepted: 05/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Haemaphysalis longicornis is a tick and a vector of various pathogens, including the human pathogenetic Babesia microti. The objective of this study was to identify female H. longicornis genes differentially expressed in response to infection with B. microti Gray strain by using a suppression subtractive hybridization (SSH) procedure. A total of 302 randomly selected clones were sequenced and analyzed in the forward subtracted SSH cDNA library related to Babesia infection, and 110 clones in the reverse cDNA library. Gene ontology assignments and sequence analyses of tick sequences in the forward cDNA library showed that 14 genes were related to response to stimulus or/and immune system process, and 7 genes had the higher number of standardized sequences per kilobase (SPK). Subsequent real-time PCR detection showed that eight genes including those encoding for Obg-like ATPase 1 (ola1), Calreticulin (crt), vitellogenin 1 (Vg1) and Vg2 were up-regulated in fed ticks. Compared to uninfected ticks, infected ticks had six up-regulated genes, including ola1, crt and Vg2. Functional analysis of up-regulated genes in fed or Babesia-infected ticks by RNA interference showed that knockdown of crt and Vg2 in infected ticks and knockdown of ola1 in uninfected ticks accelerated engorgement. In contrast, Vg1 knockdown in infected ticks had delayed engorgement. Knockdown of crt and Vg1 in infected ticks decreased engorged female weight. Vg2 knockdown reduced B. microti infection levels by 51% when compared with controls. The results reported here increase our understanding of roles of H. longicornis genes in blood feeding and B. microti infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weiqing Zheng
- The Collaboration Unit for Field Epidemiology of State Key Laboratory for Infectious Disease Prevention and Control, Jiangxi Provincial key Laboratory of Animal-Origin and Vector-Borne Diseases, Nanchang Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Honggutan New District, Nanchang 330038, China; (W.Z.); (S.C.)
- National Research Center for Protozoan Diseases, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Inada-Cho, Obihiro, Hokkaido 080-8555, Japan; (K.O.); (P.F.A.M.); (H.S.); (M.L.)
| | - Rika Umemiya-Shirafuji
- National Research Center for Protozoan Diseases, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Inada-Cho, Obihiro, Hokkaido 080-8555, Japan; (K.O.); (P.F.A.M.); (H.S.); (M.L.)
| | - Shengen Chen
- The Collaboration Unit for Field Epidemiology of State Key Laboratory for Infectious Disease Prevention and Control, Jiangxi Provincial key Laboratory of Animal-Origin and Vector-Borne Diseases, Nanchang Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Honggutan New District, Nanchang 330038, China; (W.Z.); (S.C.)
| | - Kiyoshi Okado
- National Research Center for Protozoan Diseases, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Inada-Cho, Obihiro, Hokkaido 080-8555, Japan; (K.O.); (P.F.A.M.); (H.S.); (M.L.)
| | - Paul Franck Adjou Moumouni
- National Research Center for Protozoan Diseases, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Inada-Cho, Obihiro, Hokkaido 080-8555, Japan; (K.O.); (P.F.A.M.); (H.S.); (M.L.)
| | - Hiroshi Suzuki
- National Research Center for Protozoan Diseases, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Inada-Cho, Obihiro, Hokkaido 080-8555, Japan; (K.O.); (P.F.A.M.); (H.S.); (M.L.)
| | - Shu Yang
- The Collaboration Unit for Field Epidemiology of State Key Laboratory for Infectious Disease Prevention and Control, Jiangxi Provincial key Laboratory of Animal-Origin and Vector-Borne Diseases, Nanchang Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Honggutan New District, Nanchang 330038, China; (W.Z.); (S.C.)
| | - Mingming Liu
- National Research Center for Protozoan Diseases, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Inada-Cho, Obihiro, Hokkaido 080-8555, Japan; (K.O.); (P.F.A.M.); (H.S.); (M.L.)
| | - Xuenan Xuan
- National Research Center for Protozoan Diseases, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Inada-Cho, Obihiro, Hokkaido 080-8555, Japan; (K.O.); (P.F.A.M.); (H.S.); (M.L.)
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20
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Abstract
INTRODUCTION Human babesiosis is reported throughout the world and is endemic in the northeastern and northern Midwestern United States and northeastern China. Transmission is primarily through hard bodied ticks. Most cases of severe disease occur in immunocompromised individuals and may result in prolonged relapsing disease or death. AREAS COVERED We provide a summary of evidence supporting current treatment recommendations for immunocompetent and immunocompromised individuals experiencing babesiosis. EXPERT OPINION Most cases of human babesiosis are successfully treated with atovaquone and azithromycin or clindamycin and quinine. Severe disease may require prolonged treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert P Smith
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Maine Medical Center, Portland, Maine; Tufts University School of Medicine , Boston, MA, USA
| | - Klaus-Peter Hunfeld
- Institute for Laboratory Medicine, Microbiology & Infection Control, Northwest Medical Centre, Medical Faculty, Goethe University , Frankfurt/Main, Germany
| | - Peter J Krause
- Yale School of Public Health and Yale School of Medicine , New Haven, CT, USA
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21
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Alvarez JA, Rojas C, Figueroa JV. Diagnostic Tools for the Identification of Babesia sp. in Persistently Infected Cattle. Pathogens 2019; 8:pathogens8030143. [PMID: 31505741 PMCID: PMC6789608 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens8030143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2019] [Revised: 08/26/2019] [Accepted: 09/02/2019] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Bovine babesiosis is a tick-borne disease of cattle caused by the protozoan parasites of the genus Babesia. Babesia bovis, Babesia bigemina and Babesia divergens are considered by International health authorities (OIE) as the principal species of Babesia that cause bovine babesiosis. Animals that recover from a babesial primo infection may remain as persistent carriers with no clinical signs of disease and can be the source of infection for ticks that are able to acquire Babesia parasites from infected cattle and to transmit Babesia parasites to susceptible cattle. Several procedures that have been developed for parasite detection and diagnosis of this infectious carrier state constitute the basis for this review: A brief description of the direct microscopic detection of Babesia-infected erytrocytes; PCR-based diagnostic assays, which are very sensitive particularly in detecting Babesia in carrier cattle; in-vitro culture methods, used to demonstrate presence of carrier infections of Babesia sp.; animal inoculation, particularly for B. divergens isolation are discussed. Alternatively, persistently infected animals can be tested for specific antibabesial antibodies by using indirect serological assays. Serological procedures are not necessarily consistent in identifying persistently infected animals and have the disadvantage of presenting with cross reactions between antibodies to Babesia sp.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Antonio Alvarez
- Babesia Unit, CENID-Salud Animal e Inocuidad, INIFAP, 62550 Jiutepec, Mexico.
| | - Carmen Rojas
- Babesia Unit, CENID-Salud Animal e Inocuidad, INIFAP, 62550 Jiutepec, Mexico.
| | - Julio V Figueroa
- Babesia Unit, CENID-Salud Animal e Inocuidad, INIFAP, 62550 Jiutepec, Mexico.
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22
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Hong SH, Kim SY, Song BG, Rho JR, Cho CR, Kim CN, Um TH, Kwak YG, Cho SH, Lee SE. Detection and characterization of an emerging type of Babesia sp. similar to Babesia motasi for the first case of human babesiosis and ticks in Korea. Emerg Microbes Infect 2019; 8:869-878. [PMID: 31179860 PMCID: PMC6566668 DOI: 10.1080/22221751.2019.1622997] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Babesiosis is a tick-transmitted intraerythrocytic zoonosis. In Korea, the first mortalities were reported in 2005 due to Babesia sp. detection in sheep; herein we report epidemiological and genetic characteristics of a second case of babesiosis. Microscopic analysis of patient blood revealed polymorphic merozoites. To detect Babesia spp., PCR was performed using Babesia specific primers for β-tubulin, 18S rDNA, COB, and COX3 gene fragments. 18S rDNA analysis for Babesia sp., showed 98% homology with ovine Babesia sp. and with Babesia infections in Korea in 2005. Moreover, phylogenetic analysis of 18S rDNA, COB, and COX3 revealed close associations with B. motasi. For identifying the infectious agent, Haemaphysalis longicornis (296) and Haemaphysalis flava (301) were collected around the previous residence of the babesiosis patient. Babesia genes were identified in three H. longicornis: one sample was identified as B. microti and two samples were 98% homologous to B. motasi. Our study is the first direct confirmation of the infectious agent for human babesiosis. This case most likely resulted from tick bites from ticks near the patient house of the babesiosis patient. H. longicornis has been implicated as a vector of B. microti and other Babesia sp. infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sung-Hee Hong
- a Division of Vectors and Parasitic Diseases , Korea Center for Disease Control and Prevention , Cheongju , Korea
| | - Seong-Yoon Kim
- a Division of Vectors and Parasitic Diseases , Korea Center for Disease Control and Prevention , Cheongju , Korea
| | - Bong Goo Song
- a Division of Vectors and Parasitic Diseases , Korea Center for Disease Control and Prevention , Cheongju , Korea
| | - Jong-Rul Rho
- a Division of Vectors and Parasitic Diseases , Korea Center for Disease Control and Prevention , Cheongju , Korea
| | - Chong Rae Cho
- b Department of Laboratory Medicine , Inje University Ilsan Paik Hospital , Goyang , Korea
| | - Chul-Nam Kim
- c Department of Surgery , Inje University Ilsan Paik Hospital , Goyang , Korea
| | - Tae-Hyun Um
- b Department of Laboratory Medicine , Inje University Ilsan Paik Hospital , Goyang , Korea
| | - Yee Gyung Kwak
- d Department of Internal Medicine , Inje University Ilsan Paik Hospital , Goyang , Korea
| | - Shin-Hyeong Cho
- a Division of Vectors and Parasitic Diseases , Korea Center for Disease Control and Prevention , Cheongju , Korea
| | - Sang-Eun Lee
- a Division of Vectors and Parasitic Diseases , Korea Center for Disease Control and Prevention , Cheongju , Korea
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23
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Human Babesiosis in China: a systematic review. Parasitol Res 2019; 118:1103-1112. [DOI: 10.1007/s00436-019-06250-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2018] [Accepted: 02/05/2019] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
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24
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Krause PJ. Human babesiosis. Int J Parasitol 2019; 49:165-174. [PMID: 30690090 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpara.2018.11.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 129] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2018] [Revised: 10/31/2018] [Accepted: 11/13/2018] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
Babesiosis is a worldwide emerging tick-borne disease that is increasing in frequency and geographic range. It imposes a significant health burden, especially on those who are immunocompromised and those who acquire the infection through blood transfusion. Death from babesiosis occurs in up to 20 percent of these groups. Diagnosis is confirmed with identification of typical intraerythrocytic parasites on a thin blood smear or Babesia DNA using PCR. Treatment consists of atovaquone and azithromycin or clindamycin and quinine, and exchange transfusion in severe cases. Personal and communal protective measures can limit the burden of infection but it is important to recognize that none of these measures are likely to prevent the continued expansion of Babesia into non-endemic areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter J Krause
- Yale School of Public Health and Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA.
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25
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Bloch EM, Yang Y, He M, Tonnetti L, Liu Y, Wang J, Guo Y, Li H, Leiby DA, Shan H. A pilot serosurvey of Babesia microti in Chinese blood donors. Vox Sang 2018; 113:345-349. [PMID: 29582438 DOI: 10.1111/vox.12648] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2018] [Revised: 02/24/2018] [Accepted: 02/26/2018] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES Babesia spp. are tick-borne, intraerythrocytic protozoan parasites, several of which are transfusion-transmissible. Transfusion-transmitted babesiosis poses serious risk to a diverse patient population, including neonates, patients aged >50 years, the asplenic and the immunocompromised that are over-represented among transfusion recipients. Despite reports of B. microti and B. venatorum in People's Republic of China (PRC), no surveillance of blood donors for Babesia has previously been undertaken. We sought to determine the rates of B. microti seroreactivity in a sample of blood donors in the PRC. MATERIALS AND METHODS A pilot serosurvey was conducted of community blood donors (n = 1000) who donated July-August 2016 at Mudanjiang Blood Center (Heilongjiang Province) using indirect fluorescent antibody testing for antibodies against B. microti. The slides were prepared using B. microti-infected hamster blood. Samples that were initially positive to a titre of 64 were subjected to repeat IFA testing. Final seroreactivity was based on repeat reactivity to ≥64. RESULTS A total of 1000 individual donor samples were evaluated, comprising 888 whole blood and 112 platelet donations. Thirteen of 1000 (1·3%) donors were seroreactive for B. microti [8 (0·8%) and five (0·05%) at titres of 64 and 128, respectively]. CONCLUSION Our preliminary findings support the need for expanded Babesia surveillance in Chinese blood donors, replete with molecular evaluation, to evaluate the risk to the blood supply.
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Affiliation(s)
- E M Bloch
- Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Y Yang
- Institute of Blood Transfusion, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Chengdu, China
| | - M He
- Institute of Blood Transfusion, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Chengdu, China
| | | | - Y Liu
- Institute of Blood Transfusion, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Chengdu, China
| | - J Wang
- Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Y Guo
- Mudanjiang blood center, Heilongjiang, China
| | - H Li
- Mudanjiang blood center, Heilongjiang, China
| | - D A Leiby
- United States Food and Drug Administration, Silver Spring, MD, USA
| | - H Shan
- Stanford University School of Medicine, Palo Alto, CA, USA
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26
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Sayama Y, Zamoto-Niikura A, Matsumoto C, Saijo M, Ishihara C, Matsubayashi K, Nagai T, Satake M. Analysis of antigen-antibody cross-reactivity among lineages and sublineages of Babesia microti parasites using human babesiosis specimens. Transfusion 2018. [PMID: 29524239 DOI: 10.1111/trf.14558] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Human babesiosis is caused mainly by Babesia microti and has recently become a public health concern due to an increase in transfusion-transmitted infection. Thus, the development of an antibody detection method with high specificity and sensitivity is a priority. Seroreactivity against B. microti has been reported to be highly specific not only to B. microti lineages but also to sublineages. This study aimed to elucidate the human antibody reactivity against various lineages, including US, Kobe, and Hobetsu, and sublineages (North America and East Asia) in the US lineage. STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS Twenty samples obtained from individuals infected with B. microti in the United States were tested for the presence of anti-B. microti antibodies using indirect immunofluorescence assay (IFA) and Western blotting (WB) to indicate antigens of each (sub-)lineage. RESULTS By IFA, 20 samples showed reactivity to the North America sublineage (titer range, 64-4096), 16 to the East Asia sublineage (64-512), 10 to the Kobe (64-128), and five to the Hobetsu (64). Antibody titers to the East Asia sublineage, Kobe, and Hobetsu were significantly lower than those to the North America sublineage (p < 0.01). By WB, in parallel with the IFA results, 18 samples showed strong reactions to the North America sublineage, weak reactions to the East Asia sublineage, and near-zero reactions to the Kobe and Hobetsu. CONCLUSION Human antibodies induced by B. microti infection are highly specific against B. microti lineages and sublineages with low cross-reactivity. Developing a precise antibody detection method may require specific antigens based on B. microti lineages and sublineages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yusuke Sayama
- Central Blood Institute, Blood Service Headquarters, Japanese Red Cross Society, National Institute of Infectious Diseases, Tokyo, Japan.,Department of Virology I, National Institute of Infectious Diseases, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Aya Zamoto-Niikura
- Division of Experimental Animal Diseases, National Institute of Infectious Diseases, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Chieko Matsumoto
- Central Blood Institute, Blood Service Headquarters, Japanese Red Cross Society, National Institute of Infectious Diseases, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Masayuki Saijo
- Department of Virology I, National Institute of Infectious Diseases, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Chiaki Ishihara
- School of Veterinary Medicine, Rakuno-Gakuen University, Ebetsu, Japan
| | - Keiji Matsubayashi
- Central Blood Institute, Blood Service Headquarters, Japanese Red Cross Society, National Institute of Infectious Diseases, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Tadashi Nagai
- Central Blood Institute, Blood Service Headquarters, Japanese Red Cross Society, National Institute of Infectious Diseases, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Masahiro Satake
- Central Blood Institute, Blood Service Headquarters, Japanese Red Cross Society, National Institute of Infectious Diseases, Tokyo, Japan
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27
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Karnchanabanthoeng A, Morand S, Jittapalapong S, Carcy B. BabesiaOccurrence in Rodents in Relation to Landscapes of Mainland Southeast Asia. Vector Borne Zoonotic Dis 2018; 18:121-130. [DOI: 10.1089/vbz.2017.2196] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Anamika Karnchanabanthoeng
- Faculty of Veterinary Technology, Kasetsart University, Bangkok, Thailand
- LBCM/EA4558 VAP, UFR Sciences Pharmaceutiques et Biologiques, Université de Montpellier, Montpellier, France
| | - Serge Morand
- Faculty of Veterinary Technology, Kasetsart University, Bangkok, Thailand
- CNRS ISEM–CIRAD ASTRE, Montpellier, France
| | | | - Bernard Carcy
- LBCM/EA4558 VAP, UFR Sciences Pharmaceutiques et Biologiques, Université de Montpellier, Montpellier, France
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28
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Rodríguez Y, Rojas M, Gershwin ME, Anaya JM. Tick-borne diseases and autoimmunity: A comprehensive review. J Autoimmun 2018; 88:21-42. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jaut.2017.11.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2017] [Revised: 11/20/2017] [Accepted: 11/20/2017] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
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29
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Gao ZH, Huang TH, Jiang BG, Jia N, Liu ZX, Shao ZT, Jiang RR, Liu HB, Wei R, Li YQ, Yao HW, von Fricken ME, Jiang JF, Du CH, Cao WC. Wide Distribution and Genetic Diversity of Babesia microti in Small Mammals from Yunnan Province, Southwestern China. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2017; 11:e0005898. [PMID: 29059184 PMCID: PMC5681298 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0005898] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2017] [Revised: 11/10/2017] [Accepted: 08/23/2017] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Babesia, usually found in wild and domestic mammals worldwide, have recently been responsible for emerging malaria-like zoonosis in infected patients. Human B. microti infection has been identified in China, primarily in the Southwest along the Myanmar border but little direct surveillance of B. microti infection in rodents has been carried out here (Yunnan province). In this region, a diverse topographic range combined with tropical moisture sustains a high biodiversity of small mammals, which might play important role on Babesia transmission. Methods Small mammals were captured in 141 sample locations from 18 counties located Yunnan Province, and screened for B. microti-like parasites infection by a nested PCR to target 18S rRNA gene of Babesia, plus directly sequencing for positive samples. Univariate and multivariate forward stepwise logistic regression analysis was used to access the association between infections and some related risk factors. Results Infection with Babesia microti was confirmed in 2.4% (53/ 2204) of small mammals. Significant differences in prevalence rates of B. microti were observed based on variations in forest, agricultural, and residential landscapes. Furthermore, adult small mammals had higher prevalence rates than younger, pubertal mammals. The near full-length 18S rRNA gene revealed that there were two types of B. microti, Kobe and Otsu, which demonstrate the genetic diversity and regional distribution. Conclusions There exists a wide distribution and genetic diversity of endemic B. microti in Southwestern China, warranting further investigations and monitoring of clinical disease in individuals presenting with Babesia like symptoms in these areas. Babesia spp are garnering more attention as causative agents of human disease, with B. microti responsible for most cases globally. Our study documents potential small mammal reservoir hosts, collected from a large of sample sites, with PCR and sequencing identifying the wide distribution and genetic diversity of endemic B. microti in Southwestern China. Our study adds to body of literature on Babesia in China, while focusing on potential rodent reservoirs of disease. This report will be important for public health, and for researchers in the field of parasitology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zi-Hou Gao
- Yunnan Institute of Endemic Diseases Control and Prevention, Yunnan, P.R., China
| | - Tao-Hua Huang
- Yunnan Institute of Endemic Diseases Control and Prevention, Yunnan, P.R., China
| | - Bao-Gui Jiang
- State Key Laboratory of Pathogen and Biosecurity, Beijing Institute of Microbiology and Epidemiology, Beijing, P. R., China
| | - Na Jia
- State Key Laboratory of Pathogen and Biosecurity, Beijing Institute of Microbiology and Epidemiology, Beijing, P. R., China
| | - Zheng-Xiang Liu
- Yunnan Institute of Endemic Diseases Control and Prevention, Yunnan, P.R., China
| | - Zong-Ti Shao
- Yunnan Institute of Endemic Diseases Control and Prevention, Yunnan, P.R., China
| | - Rui-Ruo Jiang
- State Key Laboratory of Pathogen and Biosecurity, Beijing Institute of Microbiology and Epidemiology, Beijing, P. R., China
| | - Hong-Bo Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Pathogen and Biosecurity, Beijing Institute of Microbiology and Epidemiology, Beijing, P. R., China
| | - Ran Wei
- State Key Laboratory of Pathogen and Biosecurity, Beijing Institute of Microbiology and Epidemiology, Beijing, P. R., China
| | - Yu-Qiong Li
- Yunnan Institute of Endemic Diseases Control and Prevention, Yunnan, P.R., China
| | - Hong-Wu Yao
- Chinese PLA General Hospital (301 Hospital), Beijing, P.R., China
| | - Michael E. von Fricken
- George Mason University, Dept. of Global and Community Health, Fairfax, VA, United States of America
- Duke University, Duke Medicine, Division of Infectious Disease, Durham N.C., United States of America
| | - Jia-Fu Jiang
- State Key Laboratory of Pathogen and Biosecurity, Beijing Institute of Microbiology and Epidemiology, Beijing, P. R., China
- * E-mail: (JFJ); (CHD); (WCC)
| | - Chun-Hong Du
- Yunnan Institute of Endemic Diseases Control and Prevention, Yunnan, P.R., China
- * E-mail: (JFJ); (CHD); (WCC)
| | - Wu-Chun Cao
- State Key Laboratory of Pathogen and Biosecurity, Beijing Institute of Microbiology and Epidemiology, Beijing, P. R., China
- * E-mail: (JFJ); (CHD); (WCC)
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30
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Chao LL, Yu WC, Shih CM. First detection and molecular identification of Babesia microti in Rattus losea captured from the offshore Kinmen Island of Taiwan. Ticks Tick Borne Dis 2016; 8:313-319. [PMID: 27988311 DOI: 10.1016/j.ttbdis.2016.12.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2015] [Revised: 10/31/2016] [Accepted: 12/11/2016] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Babesia microti was firstly detected and identified in brown country rats (Rattus losea, Swinhoe) captured from the offshore Kinmen Island of Taiwan. The prevalence of Babesia infection in 283 rodents was screened by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assay using a piroplasma-conserved primer set (Piro A/B) and the thirty-seven PCR-positive rodents were further examined by PCR using a species-specific primer set (Bab 1/4) targeting the gene encoding the nuclear small-subunit ribosomal RNA (18S rRNA) of Babesia species. B. microti was detected only in Rattus losea with a total infection rate of 9.9% (28/283). Positivity examined by species-specific PCR (9.9%) is higher than examined by blood smear (4.6%). Sequence and phylogenetic analyses revealed that Babesia species detected in Taiwan were genetically affiliated to the genotypes of B. microti, and can be easily distinguished from other genotypes of Babesia parasites by neighbour-joining and maximum-parsimony methods. Intra- and inter-species analysis also indicate that all these Taiwan species have a lower level of genetic divergence (genetic distance values <0.084) within the genotypes of B. microti, and were genetically more distant to other genotypes (>0.218) of Babesia parasites. This study provides the first evidence of B. microti identified in R. losea in Taiwan, and the high prevalence of Babesia infection in R. losea may imply its possible role served as reservoir host for maintaining an enzoonotic cycle of Babesia transmission in Kinmen Island. The possible vector tick responsible for the transmission of Babesia infection need to be further identified.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li-Lian Chao
- Graduate Institute of Medicine, M.Sc. Program in Tropical Medicine, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan, ROC; Graduate Institute of Pathology and Parasitology, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan, ROC
| | - Wen-Ching Yu
- Graduate Institute of Pathology and Parasitology, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan, ROC
| | - Chien-Ming Shih
- Graduate Institute of Medicine, M.Sc. Program in Tropical Medicine, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan, ROC; Graduate Institute of Pathology and Parasitology, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan, ROC; Research Center for Environmental Medicine, Center for Infectious Disease and Cancer Research, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan, ROC.
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31
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Ixodes persulcatus Ticks as Vectors for the Babesia microti U.S. Lineage in Japan. Appl Environ Microbiol 2016; 82:6624-6632. [PMID: 27590815 DOI: 10.1128/aem.02373-16] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2016] [Accepted: 08/26/2016] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The U.S. lineage, one of the major clades in the Babesia microti group, is known as a causal agent of human babesiosis mostly in the northeastern and upper midwestern United States. This lineage, however, also is distributed throughout the temperate zone of Eurasia with several reported human cases, although convincing evidence of the identity of the specific vector(s) in this area is lacking. Here, the goal was to demonstrate the presence of infectious parasites directly in salivary glands of Ixodes persulcatus, from which U.S. lineage genetic sequences have been detected in Asia, and to molecularly characterize the isolates. Five PCR-positive specimens were individually inoculated into hamsters, resulting in infections in four; consequently, four strains were newly established. Molecular characterization, including 18S rRNA, β-tubulin, and CCT7 gene sequences, as well as Western blot analysis and indirect fluorescent antibody assay, revealed that all four strains were identical to each other and to the U.S. lineage strains isolated from rodents captured in Japan. The 18S rRNA gene sequence from the isolates was identical to those from I. persulcatus in Russia and China, but the genetic and antigenic profiles of the Japanese parasites differ from those in the United States and Europe. Together with previous epidemiological and transmission studies, we conclude that I. persulcatus is likely the principal vector for the B. microti U.S. lineage in Japan and presumably in northeastern Eurasia. IMPORTANCE The major cause of human babesiosis, the tick-borne blood parasite Babesia microti, U.S. lineage, is widely distributed in the temperate Northern Hemisphere. However, the specific tick vector(s) remains unidentified in Eurasia, where there are people with antibodies to the B. microti U.S. lineage and cases of human babesiosis. In this study, the first isolation of B. microti U.S. lineage from Ixodes persulcatus ticks, a principal vector for many tick-borne diseases, is described in Japan. Limited antigenic cross-reaction was found between the Japan and United States isolates. Thus, current serological tests based on U.S. isolates may underestimate B. microti occurrence outside the United States. This study and previous studies indicate that I. persulcatus is part of the B. microti U.S. lineage life cycle in Japan and, presumably, northeastern Eurasia. This report will be important for public health, especially since infection may occur through transfusion, and also to researchers in the field of parasitology.
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32
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Lemieux JE, Tran AD, Freimark L, Schaffner SF, Goethert H, Andersen KG, Bazner S, Li A, McGrath G, Sloan L, Vannier E, Milner D, Pritt B, Rosenberg E, Telford S, Bailey JA, Sabeti PC. A global map of genetic diversity in Babesia microti reveals strong population structure and identifies variants associated with clinical relapse. Nat Microbiol 2016; 1:16079. [PMID: 27572973 DOI: 10.1038/nmicrobiol.2016.79] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2015] [Accepted: 04/28/2016] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Human babesiosis caused by Babesia microti is an emerging tick-borne zoonosis of increasing importance due to its rising incidence and expanding geographic range(1). Infection with this organism, an intraerythrocytic parasite of the phylum Apicomplexa, causes a febrile syndrome similar to malaria(2). Relapsing disease is common among immunocompromised and asplenic individuals(3,4) and drug resistance has recently been reported(5). To investigate the origin and genetic diversity of this parasite, we sequenced the complete genomes of 42 B. microti samples from around the world, including deep coverage of clinical infections at endemic sites in the continental USA. Samples from the continental USA segregate into a Northeast lineage and a Midwest lineage, with subsequent divergence of subpopulations along geographic lines. We identify parasite variants that associate with relapsing disease, including amino acid substitutions in the atovaquone-binding regions of cytochrome b (cytb) and the azithromycin-binding region of ribosomal protein subunit L4 (rpl4). Our results shed light on the origin, diversity and evolution of B. microti, suggest possible mechanisms for clinical relapse, and create the foundation for further research on this emerging pathogen.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacob E Lemieux
- The Broad Institute of MIT Division of Health Sciences and and MIT, Cambridge 02142, Massachusetts, USA.,Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts 02114, USA
| | - Alice D Tran
- Program in Bioinformatics and Integrative Biology, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts 01605, USA
| | - Lisa Freimark
- The Broad Institute of MIT Division of Health Sciences and and MIT, Cambridge 02142, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Stephen F Schaffner
- The Broad Institute of MIT Division of Health Sciences and and MIT, Cambridge 02142, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Heidi Goethert
- Tufts School of Veterinary Medicine, North Grafton, Massachusetts 01536, USA
| | - Kristian G Andersen
- The Broad Institute of MIT Division of Health Sciences and and MIT, Cambridge 02142, Massachusetts, USA.,The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, California 92037, USA
| | - Suzane Bazner
- Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts 02114, USA
| | - Amy Li
- Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research at MIT, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02142, USA
| | - Graham McGrath
- Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts 02114, USA
| | - Lynne Sloan
- Department of Pathology, The Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota 55905, USA
| | - Edouard Vannier
- Division of Geographic Medicine and Infectious Disease, Tufts Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts 02111, USA
| | - Dan Milner
- Department of Pathology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, USA
| | - Bobbi Pritt
- Department of Pathology, The Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota 55905, USA
| | - Eric Rosenberg
- Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts 02114, USA.,Department of Pathology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts 02114, USA
| | - Sam Telford
- Tufts School of Veterinary Medicine, North Grafton, Massachusetts 01536, USA
| | - Jeffrey A Bailey
- Program in Bioinformatics and Integrative Biology, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts 01605, USA.,Department of Medicine, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts 01655, USA
| | - Pardis C Sabeti
- The Broad Institute of MIT Division of Health Sciences and and MIT, Cambridge 02142, Massachusetts, USA.,Department of Evolutionary and Organismic Biology, MIT Division of Health Sciences and University, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02138, USA
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Moustafa MAM, Taylor K, Nakao R, Shimozuru M, Sashika M, Rosà R, Thu MJ, Rizzoli A, Tsubota T. Dynamics, co-infections and characteristics of zoonotic tick-borne pathogens in Hokkaido small mammals, Japan. Ticks Tick Borne Dis 2016; 7:922-928. [PMID: 27166277 DOI: 10.1016/j.ttbdis.2016.04.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2016] [Revised: 04/12/2016] [Accepted: 04/20/2016] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
Many of the emerging infectious diseases originate in wildlife and many of them are caused by vector-borne pathogens. In Japan, zoonotic tick-borne pathogens (TBPs) are frequently detected in both ticks and wildlife. Here, we studied the infection rates of potentially zoonotic species, including Anaplasma, Ehrlichia, Neoehrlichia and Babesia spp., in Hokkaido's most abundant small mammals as they relate to variable extrinsic factors that might affect the infection rates of these pathogens. A total of 412 small mammals including 64 Apodemus argenteus, 219 Apodemus speciosus, 78 Myodes rufocanus, 41 Myodes rutilus, 6 Myodes rex and 4 Sorex unguiculatus were collected from Furano and Shari sites in Hokkaido, Japan, in 2010 and 2011 and were examined by multiplex PCR for TBPs. A reverse line blot hybridization (RLB) was then developed for the specific detection of 13 potentially zoonotic TBPs. A total of 4 TBPs were detected: Anaplasma sp. AP-sd, Ehrlichia muris, Candidatus Neoehrlichia mikurensis and Babesia microti. The infection rates were 4.4% (18/412), 1.2% (5/412), 13.1% (54/412) and 17.2% (71/412), respectively. The infection rates of each of the detected TBPs were significantly correlated with host small mammal species. A total of 22 (two triple and 20 double) co-infection cases were detected (5.3%). The most frequent co-infection cases occurred between Candidatus N. mikurensis and B. microti 68.2% (15/22). Further studies are required to examine human exposure to these zoonotic TBPs in Hokkaido.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamed Abdallah Mohamed Moustafa
- Laboratory of Wildlife Biology and Medicine, Department of Environmental Veterinary Sciences, Graduate School of Veterinary Medicine, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Kyle Taylor
- Laboratory of Wildlife Biology and Medicine, Department of Environmental Veterinary Sciences, Graduate School of Veterinary Medicine, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Ryo Nakao
- Laboratory of Parasitology, Department of Disease Control, Graduate School of Veterinary Medicine, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Michito Shimozuru
- Laboratory of Wildlife Biology and Medicine, Department of Environmental Veterinary Sciences, Graduate School of Veterinary Medicine, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Mariko Sashika
- Laboratory of Wildlife Biology and Medicine, Department of Environmental Veterinary Sciences, Graduate School of Veterinary Medicine, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Roberto Rosà
- Research and Innovation Centre, Fondazione Edmund Mach, San Michele all'Adige, Trento, Italy
| | - May June Thu
- Unit of Risk Analysis and Management, Hokkaido University Research Center for Zoonosis Control, Sapporo, Hokkaido, Japan
| | - Annapaola Rizzoli
- Research and Innovation Centre, Fondazione Edmund Mach, San Michele all'Adige, Trento, Italy
| | - Toshio Tsubota
- Laboratory of Wildlife Biology and Medicine, Department of Environmental Veterinary Sciences, Graduate School of Veterinary Medicine, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Japan.
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Gumber S, Nascimento FS, Rogers KA, Bishop HS, Rivera HN, Xayavong MV, Devare SG, Schochetman G, Amancha PK, Qvarnstrom Y, Wilkins PP, Villinger F. Experimental transfusion-induced Babesia microti infection: dynamics of parasitemia and immune responses in a rhesus macaque model. Transfusion 2016; 56:1508-19. [PMID: 26892459 DOI: 10.1111/trf.13521] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2015] [Revised: 12/04/2015] [Accepted: 12/04/2015] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Babesiosis is an emerging tick-borne infection in humans. The increasing numbers of reported cases of transfusion-associated babesiosis (TAB), primarily caused by Babesia microti, represents a concern for the safety of the US blood supply. STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS This study investigated kinetics of parasitemia and innate immune responses and dynamics of antibody responses during B. microti infection in rhesus macaques (RMs) using blood smears, quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR), flow cytometry, and indirect fluorescent antibody testing. A total of six monkeys were transfused with either hamster or monkey-passaged B. microti-infected red blood cells (two and four monkeys, respectively) simulating TAB. RESULTS The prepatent period in monkeys inoculated with hamster-passaged B. microti was 35 days compared with 4 days in monkeys transfused with monkey-passaged B. microti; the latter monkeys also had markedly higher parasitemia levels. The duration of the window period from the first detected parasitemia by qPCR analysis to the first detected antibody response ranged from 10 to 17 days. Antibody responses fluctuated during the course of the infection. Innate responses assessed by the frequencies of monocytes and activated B cells correlated with the kinetics and magnitude of parasitemia. On Day 14, additional activation peaks were noted for CD14+CD16+ and CD14-CD16+ monocytes and for CD11c+ myeloid dendritic cells, but only in animals transfused with monkey-passaged B. microti. Parasitemia persisted in these immunocompetent animals, similar to human infection. CONCLUSION The results suggest that transfusion-associated transmission of B. microti leads to rapid onset of parasitemia (Day 4) in RMs, detectable antibody response 14 days later, and persistent parasitemia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sanjeev Gumber
- Division of Pathology, Yerkes National Primate Research Center, Atlanta, Georgia.,Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Emory University School of Medicine
| | - Fernanda S Nascimento
- Division of Parasitic Diseases and Malaria, Center for Global Health, Centers for Disease Control & Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Kenneth A Rogers
- Division of Parasitic Diseases and Malaria, Center for Global Health, Centers for Disease Control & Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Henry S Bishop
- Division of Parasitic Diseases and Malaria, Center for Global Health, Centers for Disease Control & Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Hilda N Rivera
- Division of Parasitic Diseases and Malaria, Center for Global Health, Centers for Disease Control & Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Maniphet V Xayavong
- Division of Parasitic Diseases and Malaria, Center for Global Health, Centers for Disease Control & Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Sushil G Devare
- Abbott Diagnostics, Abbott Laboratories, Abbott Park, Illinois
| | | | - Praveen K Amancha
- Division of Microbiology and Immunology, Yerkes National Primate Research Center
| | - Yvonne Qvarnstrom
- Division of Parasitic Diseases and Malaria, Center for Global Health, Centers for Disease Control & Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Patricia P Wilkins
- Division of Parasitic Diseases and Malaria, Center for Global Health, Centers for Disease Control & Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - François Villinger
- Division of Microbiology and Immunology, Yerkes National Primate Research Center.,Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Emory University School of Medicine
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The PCR detection and phylogenetic characterization of Babesia microti in questing ticks in Mongolia. Parasitol Int 2015. [DOI: 10.1016/j.parint.2015.07.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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Ord RL, Lobo CA. Human Babesiosis: Pathogens, Prevalence, Diagnosis and Treatment. CURRENT CLINICAL MICROBIOLOGY REPORTS 2015; 2:173-181. [PMID: 26594611 DOI: 10.1007/s40588-015-0025-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Human babesiosis is a zoonotic disease caused by protozoan parasites of the Babesia genus, primarily in the Northeastern and Midwest United States due to B. microti, and Western Europe due to B. divergens. Parasites are transmitted by the bite of the ixodid tick when the vector takes a blood meal from the vertebrate host, and the economic importance of bovine babesiosis is well understood. The pathology of human disease is a direct result of the parasite's ability to invade host's red blood cells. The current understanding of human babesiosis epidemiology is that many infections remain asymptomatic, especially in younger or immune competent individuals, and the burden of severe pathology resides within older or immunocompromised individuals. However, transfusion-transmitted babesiosis is an emerging threat to public health as asymptomatic carriers donate blood and there are as yet no licensed or regulated tests to screen blood products for this pathogen. Reports of tick-borne cases within new geographical regions such as the Pacific Northwest of the US, through Eastern Europe, and into China are also on the rise. Further, new Babesia spp. have been identified globally as agents of severe human babesiosis, suggesting that the epidemiology of this disease is rapidly changing, and it is clear that human babesiosis is a serious public health concern that requires close monitoring and effective intervention measure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosalynn Louise Ord
- Department of Blood-Borne Parasites, Lindsley Kimball Research Institute, New York Blood Center, New York, NY, 10065, USA
| | - Cheryl A Lobo
- Department of Blood-Borne Parasites, Lindsley Kimball Research Institute, New York Blood Center, New York, NY, 10065, USA
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Emergence of human babesiosis along the border of China with Myanmar: detection by PCR and confirmation by sequencing. Emerg Microbes Infect 2014; 3:e55. [PMID: 26038750 PMCID: PMC4150284 DOI: 10.1038/emi.2014.55] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2014] [Revised: 04/17/2014] [Accepted: 06/13/2014] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Babesiosis is a tick-borne, zoonotic disease caused by Babesia spp. Two cases of babesiosis were detected by nested polymerase chain reaction (PCR) in Yunnan province, China, and further confirmed by molecular assay. The blood smears showed intraerythrocytic ring form and tetrads typical of small B. microti. In both cases, the rapid diagnostic test (RDT) ruled out the possibility of co-infections with malaria. Neither case was initially diagnosed because of the low Babesia parasitemia. These two cases of babesiosis in areas along the Myanmar–China border pose the question of the emergence of this under recognized infection in countries or areas where malaria is endemic.
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Leiby DA, Johnson ST, Won KY, Nace EK, Slemenda SB, Pieniazek NJ, Cable RG, Herwaldt BL. A longitudinal study of Babesia microti infection in seropositive blood donors. Transfusion 2014; 54:2217-25. [PMID: 24673297 DOI: 10.1111/trf.12622] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2013] [Revised: 01/03/2014] [Accepted: 01/17/2014] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Babesia infection is caused by intraerythrocytic tick-borne parasites. Cases of transfusion-transmitted babesiosis have been increasingly recognized. To date, no Babesia test has been licensed for screening US blood donors. We conducted a longitudinal study to assess the course and markers of Babesia infection among seropositive donors identified in a seroprevalence study. STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS Eligible donors had B. microti indirect fluorescent antibody (IFA) titers of 64 or greater. Enrollees were monitored up to 3 years, by IFA and three methods for evidence of parasitemia: B. microti nested polymerase chain reaction (PCR) analysis (at two laboratories), hamster inoculation, and blood-smear examination. RESULTS Among 115 eligible donors, 84 (73%) enrolled. Eighteen enrollees (21%) had evidence of parasitemia for 30 total specimens (17% of 181), which were collected in 9 different months and tested positive by various approaches: PCR (25 specimens/16 persons), hamster inoculation (13 specimens/8 persons), and blood smear (one specimen positive by all three approaches). Overall, 14 persons had one or more specimen with positive PCR results at both laboratories (12 persons) and/or had parasitologically confirmed infection (eight persons). Three of nine persons who had more than one specimen with evidence of parasitemia had nonconsecutive positives. Several enrollees likely had been infected at least 1 year when their last positive specimen was collected. The final three specimens for seven persons tested negative by all study methods, including IFA. CONCLUSION Seropositive blood donors can have protracted low-level parasitemia that is variably and intermittently detected by parasitologic and molecular methods. Donor-screening algorithms should include serologic testing and not solely rely on molecular testing.
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Affiliation(s)
- David A Leiby
- Transmissible Diseases Department, American Red Cross Holland Laboratory, Rockville, Maryland
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Piroplasmosis in wildlife: Babesia and Theileria affecting free-ranging ungulates and carnivores in the Italian Alps. Parasit Vectors 2014; 7:70. [PMID: 24533742 PMCID: PMC3929754 DOI: 10.1186/1756-3305-7-70] [Citation(s) in RCA: 85] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2013] [Accepted: 01/29/2014] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Piroplasmosis are among the most relevant diseases of domestic animals. Babesia is emerging as cause of tick-borne zoonosis worldwide and free-living animals are reservoir hosts of several zoonotic Babesia species. We investigated the epidemiology of Babesia spp. and Theileria spp. in wild ungulates and carnivores from Northern Italy to determine which of these apicomplexan species circulate in wildlife and their prevalence of infection. METHODS PCR amplification of the V4 hyper-variable region of the 18S rDNA of Babesia sp./Theileria sp was carried out on spleen samples of 1036 wild animals: Roe deer Capreolus capreolus (n = 462), Red deer Cervus elaphus (n = 52), Alpine Chamois Rupicapra rupicapra (n = 36), Fallow deer Dama dama (n = 17), Wild boar Sus scrofa (n = 257), Red fox Vulpes vulpes (n = 205) and Wolf Canis lupus (n = 7). Selected positive samples were sequenced to determine the species of amplified Babesia/Theileria DNA. RESULTS Babesia/Theileria DNA was found with a mean prevalence of 9.94% (IC95% 8.27-11.91). The only piroplasms found in carnivores was Theileria annae, which was detected in two foxes (0.98%; IC95% 0.27-3.49). Red deer showed the highest prevalence of infection (44.23%; IC95% 31.6-57.66), followed by Alpine chamois (22.22%; IC95% 11.71-38.08), Roe deer (12.55%; IC95% 9.84-15.89), and Wild boar (4.67%; IC95% 2.69-7.98). Genetic analysis identified Babesia capreoli as the most prevalent piroplasmid found in Alpine chamois, Roe deer and Red deer, followed by Babesia bigemina (found in Roe deer, Red deer and Wild boar), and the zoonotic Babesia venatorum (formerly Babesia sp. EU1) isolated from 2 Roe deer. Piroplasmids of the genus Theileria were identified in Wild boar and Red deer. CONCLUSIONS The present study offers novel insights into the role of wildlife in Babesia/Theileria epidemiology, as well as relevant information on genetic variability of piroplasmids infecting wild ungulates and carnivores.
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Yabsley MJ, Shock BC. Natural history of Zoonotic Babesia: Role of wildlife reservoirs. Int J Parasitol Parasites Wildl 2013; 2:18-31. [PMID: 24533312 PMCID: PMC3862492 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijppaw.2012.11.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 151] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2012] [Revised: 10/25/2012] [Accepted: 11/06/2012] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
Abstract
Babesiosis is an emerging zoonotic disease on all inhabited continents and various wildlife species are the principal reservoir hosts for zoonotic Babesia species. The primary vectors of Babesia are Ixodid ticks, with the majority of zoonotic species being transmitted by species in the genus Ixodes. Species of Babesia vary in their infectivity, virulence and pathogenicity for people. Various factors (e.g., increased interactions between people and the environment, increased immunosuppression, changes in landscape and climate, and shifts in host and vector species abundance and community structures) have led to an increase in tick-borne diseases in people, including babesiosis. Furthermore, because babesiosis is now a reportable disease in several states in the United States, and it is the most common blood transfusion-associated parasite, recognized infections are expected to increase. Because of the zoonotic nature of these parasites, it is essential that we understand the natural history (especially reservoirs and vectors) so that appropriate control and prevention measures can be implemented. Considerable work has been conducted on the ecology of Babesia microti and Babesia divergens, the two most common causes of babesiosis in the United States and Europe, respectively. However, unfortunately, for many of the zoonotic Babesia species, the reservoir(s) and/or tick vector(s) are unknown. We review the current knowledge regarding the ecology of Babesia among their reservoir and tick hosts with an emphasis of the role on wildlife as reservoirs. We hope to encourage the molecular characterization of Babesia from potential reservoirs and vectors as well from people. These data are necessary so that informed decisions can be made regarding potential vectors and the potential role of wildlife in the ecology of a novel Babesia when it is detected in a human patient.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael J. Yabsley
- Corresponding author. Address: The Southeastern Cooperative Wildlife Disease Study, Department of Population Health, 589 DW Brooks Drive, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, USA. Tel.: +1 706 542 1741; fax: +1 706 542 5865.
| | - Barbara C. Shock
- Daniel B. Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, USA
- The Southeastern Cooperative Wildlife Disease Study, Department of Population Health, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, USA
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Saito-Ito A, Kasahara M, Kasai M, Dantrakool A, Kawai A, Fujita H, Yano Y, Kawabata H, Takada N. Survey ofBabesia microtiInfection in Field Rodents in Japan: Records of the Kobe-Type in New Foci and Findings of a New Type Related to the Otsu-Type. Microbiol Immunol 2013; 51:15-24. [PMID: 17237595 DOI: 10.1111/j.1348-0421.2007.tb03886.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Of 247 rodents comprising 5 genera and 7 species collected at 17 sites throughout Japan from 2003 to 2005, Babesia microti was detected microscopically and by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) in 36 rodents comprising 2 genera and 3 species from 12 sites. Based on the analysis of small subunit ribosomal RNA gene (SSUrDNA) sequences, the Kobe-type, the etiological type of the first Japanese case of human infection was found in Apodemus speciosus and Apodemus argenteus in Aomori, the northernmost prefecture of the Japanese mainland, while the U.S.-type was found on Hokkaido Island and the Otsu-type was widely distributed. In addition, a new Otsu-related type was detected exclusively in Eothenomys andersoni in Nagano, a prefecture in central Japan. The sequences of internal transcribed spacer 1 to 2 (ITS1/2) of the present Kobe- and Otsu-types were almost identical to those of the same types previously identified. The ITS1/2 sequence of the U.S.-type identified in Hokkaido in this survey was somewhat different from that of the U.S.-type strain originating from the U.S.A., with approximately 95% identity. This value was similar to the 94% identity found between the ITS1/2 sequences of the Otsu-type and the new Otsu-related type. The new Otsu-related type of B. microti was isolated as the Nagano strain, which was serologically differentiated from the other type strains of B. microti. The divergence and distribution of genotypes are important factors in investigating the epidemiology of human B. microti infection in Japan.
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MESH Headings
- Animals
- Babesia microti/classification
- Babesia microti/genetics
- Babesia microti/isolation & purification
- Babesiosis/epidemiology
- Babesiosis/parasitology
- Babesiosis/veterinary
- Cricetinae
- DNA, Intergenic/analysis
- DNA, Intergenic/chemistry
- DNA, Intergenic/genetics
- DNA, Protozoan/analysis
- DNA, Protozoan/chemistry
- DNA, Protozoan/genetics
- DNA, Ribosomal/analysis
- DNA, Ribosomal/chemistry
- DNA, Ribosomal/genetics
- Japan/epidemiology
- Molecular Epidemiology
- Molecular Sequence Data
- Phylogeny
- Polymerase Chain Reaction
- Rodent Diseases/epidemiology
- Rodent Diseases/parasitology
- Rodentia
- Sequence Analysis, DNA
- Sequence Homology, Nucleic Acid
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Affiliation(s)
- Atsuko Saito-Ito
- Section of Parasitology, Division of Microbiology, Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine, Japan.
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Co-infections with Babesia microti and Plasmodium parasites along the China-Myanmar border. Infect Dis Poverty 2013; 2:24. [PMID: 24090043 PMCID: PMC3819642 DOI: 10.1186/2049-9957-2-24] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2013] [Accepted: 09/26/2013] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Babesiosis is an emerging health risk in several parts of the world. However, little is known about the prevalence of Babesia in malaria-endemic countries. The area along the China-Myanmar border in Yunnan is a main endemic area of malaria in P.R. China, however, human infection with Babesia microti (B. microti) is not recognized in this region, and its profile of co-infection is not yet clear. Methods To understand its profile of co-infections with B. microti, our investigation was undertaken in the malaria-endemic area along the China-Myanmar border in Yunnan between April 2012 and June 2013. Four parasite species, including B. microti, Plasmodium falciparum (P. falciparum), P. vivax, and P. malariae, were identified among 449 suspected febrile persons detected by nested polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assay based on small subunit ribosomal ribonucleic acid (RNA) genes of B. microti and Plasmodium spp. Results Of all the collected samples from febrile patients, mono-infection with B. microti, P. vivax, P. falciparum, and P. malariae accounted for 1.8% (8/449), 9.8% (44/449), 2.9% (13/449), and 0.2% (1/449), respectively. The rate of mixed infections of B. microti with P. falciparum or P. vivax are both 0.2% (1/449), and mixed infections of P. falciparum and P. vivax accounted for 1.1% (5/449). Conclusions This report supports the hypothesis that babesiosis caused by B. microti is emerging along the China-Myanmar border in the Yunnan province, P.R. China, but it was ignored because of low parasitemia or mixed infection with Plasmodium spp. More sensitive and specific diagnosis methods are needed to find the rapid response mechanism of emergency for babesiosis and malaria co-prevalence areas.
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Cao S, Luo Y, Aboge GO, Terkawi MA, Masatani T, Suzuki H, Igarashi I, Nishikawa Y, Xuan X. Identification and characterization of an interspersed repeat antigen of Babesia microti (BmIRA). Exp Parasitol 2013; 133:346-52. [PMID: 23291346 DOI: 10.1016/j.exppara.2012.12.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2012] [Revised: 12/24/2012] [Accepted: 12/26/2012] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
In this report, a novel gene encoding an interspersed repeat antigen from Babesia microti (BmIRA) was identified and described. The full-length cDNA containing an open reading frame of 1,947 bp was obtained by immunoscreening a B. microti cDNA expression library. The full-length of BmIRA gene was expressed as a GST fusion recombinant BmIRA (rBmIRA) in Escherichia coli. Sera of mice immunized with the rBmIRA detected a native parasite protein with a molecular mass of 76 kDa on Western blot analysis. The same protein was detected in the parasites by immunofluorescent antibody test (IFAT). An enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) using rBmIRA detected specific antibodies as early as 11 days post-infection in sera from a hamster experimentally infected with B. microti Gray stain (US type). Furthermore, a rapid immunochromatographic test (ICT) using rBmIRA detected specific antibodies in a hamster experimentally infected with B. microti from day 11 to at least day 180 post-infection. The results indicate the antibody response against the rBmIRA was maintained during the chronic stage of infection. On the other hand, an immunoprotective property of rBmIRA as a subunit vaccine was evaluated in hamsters against B. microti challenge, but no significant protection was observed. Our data suggest that the immunodominant antigen BmIRA could be a useful serodiagnostic antigen for screening of B. microti infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shinuo Cao
- National Research Center for Protozoan Diseases, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Inada-cho, Obihiro, Hokkaido 080-8555, Japan
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Affiliation(s)
- Edouard Vannier
- Department of Medicine, Tufts Medical Center and Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, USA
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Detection of two zoonotic Babesia microti lineages, the Hobetsu and U.S. lineages, in two sympatric tick species, ixodes ovatus and Ixodes persulcatus, respectively, in Japan. Appl Environ Microbiol 2012; 78:3424-30. [PMID: 22389378 DOI: 10.1128/aem.00142-12] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The species Babesia microti, commonly found in rodents, demonstrates a high degree of genetic diversity. Three lineages, U.S., Kobe, and Hobetsu, are known to have zoonotic potential, but their tick vector(s) in Japan remains to be elucidated. We conducted a field investigation at Nemuro on Hokkaido Island and at Sumoto on Awaji Island, where up to two of the three lineages occur with similar frequencies in reservoirs. By flagging vegetation at these spots and surrounding areas, 4,010 ticks, comprising six species, were collected. A nested PCR that detects the 18S rRNA gene of Babesia species revealed that Ixodes ovatus and I. persulcatus alone were positive. Lineage-specific PCR for rRNA-positive samples demonstrated that I. ovatus and I. persulcatus carried, respectively, the Hobetsu and U.S. parasites. No Kobe-specific DNA was detected. Infected I. ovatus ticks were found at multiple sites, including Nemuro and Sumoto, with minimum infection rates (MIR) of ∼12.3%. However, all I. persulcatus ticks collected within the same regions, a total of 535, were negative for the Hobetsu lineage, indicating that I. ovatus, but not I. persulcatus, was the vector for the lineage. At Nemuro, U.S. lineage was detected in 2 of 139 adult I. persulcatus ticks (MIR, 1.4%), for the first time, while 48 of I. ovatus ticks were negative for that lineage. Laboratory experiments confirmed the transmission of Hobetsu and U.S. parasites to hamsters via I. ovatus and I. persulcatus, respectively. Differences in vector capacity shown by MIRs at Nemuro, where the two species were equally likely to acquire either lineage of parasite, may explain the difference in distribution of Hobetsu throughout Japan and U.S. taxa in Nemuro. These findings are of importance in the assessment of the regional risk for babesiosis in humans.
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McFarlane R, Sleigh A, McMichael T. Synanthropy of wild mammals as a determinant of emerging infectious diseases in the Asian-Australasian region. ECOHEALTH 2012; 9:24-35. [PMID: 22526750 PMCID: PMC7088064 DOI: 10.1007/s10393-012-0763-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2010] [Revised: 03/20/2012] [Accepted: 03/26/2012] [Indexed: 05/19/2023]
Abstract
Humans create ecologically simplified landscapes that favour some wildlife species, but not others. Here, we explore the possibility that those species that tolerate or do well in human-modified environments, or 'synanthropic' species, are predominantly the hosts of zoonotic emerging and re-emerging infectious diseases (EIDs). We do this using global wildlife conservation data and wildlife host information extracted from systematically reviewed emerging infectious disease literature. The evidence for this relationship is examined with special emphasis on the Australasian, South East Asian and East Asian regions. We find that synanthropic wildlife hosts are approximately 15 times more likely than other wildlife in this region to be the source of emerging infectious diseases, and this association is essentially independent of the taxonomy of the species. A significant positive association with EIDs is also evident for those wildlife species of low conservation risk. Since the increase and spread of native and introduced species able to adapt to human-induced landscape change is at the expense of those species most vulnerable to habitat loss, our findings suggest a mechanism linking land conversion, global decline in biodiversity and a rise in EIDs of wildlife origin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ro McFarlane
- National Centre for Epidemiology and Population Health, ANU College of Medicine, Biology and Environment, Australian National University, Canberra, Australia
| | - Adrian Sleigh
- National Centre for Epidemiology and Population Health, ANU College of Medicine, Biology and Environment, Australian National University, Canberra, Australia
| | - Tony McMichael
- National Centre for Epidemiology and Population Health, ANU College of Medicine, Biology and Environment, Australian National University, Canberra, Australia
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Qablan MA, Sloboda M, Jirků M, Oborník M, Dwairi S, Amr ZS, Hořín P, Lukeš J, Modrý D. Quest for the piroplasms in camels: identification of Theileria equi and Babesia caballi in Jordanian dromedaries by PCR. Vet Parasitol 2011; 186:456-60. [PMID: 22186193 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2011.11.070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2011] [Revised: 11/22/2011] [Accepted: 11/23/2011] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
DNA of two species of piroplasmids was detected in dromedaries during a survey of blood protozoans in Jordan between 2007 and 2009. Ten clinically healthy camels (10%) originating from three Jordanian districts were found, using a PCR assay, to harbor Theileria or Babesia species in their blood and no mix infection was determined. Analysis of the partial 18S rRNA gene sequences of these parasites allowed their unambiguous identification as equine piroplasmids Babesia caballi (n=6) and Theileria equi (n=4). In case of latter species, a novel genotype was found in horses. This first molecular-based species determination of piroplasmids from camels further contributes to the growing evidence of low host specificity of piroplasmids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Moneeb Ahmad Qablan
- Department of Parasitology, University of Veterinary and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Brno, Czech Republic.
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Luo Y, Terkawi MA, Jia H, Aboge GO, Goo YK, Cao S, Li Y, Yu L, Ooka H, Kamyingkird K, Masatani T, Zhang S, Nishikawa Y, Igarashi I, Xuan X. A double antibody sandwich enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay for detection of secreted antigen 1 of Babesia microti using hamster model. Exp Parasitol 2011; 130:178-82. [PMID: 22085769 DOI: 10.1016/j.exppara.2011.10.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2011] [Revised: 10/08/2011] [Accepted: 10/31/2011] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
A double antibody sandwich enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (DAS-ELISA) targeting secreted antigen 1 of Babesia microti (BmSA1) was developed for detection of B. microti infection. The optimized DAS-ELISA was sensitive enough to detect circulating BmSA1 by day 2 post-infection, in sequential sera of a hamster infected with B. microti. This detection was 4 days earlier than antibody detection by indirect ELISA. The kinetics of circulating BmSA1 coincided with the profile of parasitemia. The specificity of this assay was evaluated using sera from animals experimentally infected with different species of Babesia. The DAS-ELISA had a higher sensitivity than the microscopic examination of Giemsa-stained blood smears for detection of the infection in hamsters. Taken together, these results indicated that BmSA1 could be a potential marker for surveillance of human babesiosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuzi Luo
- National Research Center for Protozoan Diseases, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Inada-cho, Obihiro, Hokkaido 080-8555, Japan
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Macrophages are critical for cross-protective immunity conferred by Babesia microti against Babesia rodhaini infection in mice. Infect Immun 2011; 80:311-20. [PMID: 22064713 DOI: 10.1128/iai.05900-11] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Although primary infection of mice with Babesia microti has been shown to protect mice against subsequent lethal infection by Babesia rodhaini, the mechanism behind the cross-protection is unknown. To unravel this mechanism, we investigated the influence of primary infection of mice with nonlethal B. microti using different time courses on the outcome of subsequent lethal B. rodhaini infection. Simultaneous infections of mice with these parasites resulted in rapid increases in parasitemia, with 100% mortality in BALB/c mice, as observed with control mice infected with B. rodhaini alone. In contrast, mice with acute, resolving, and chronic-phase B. microti infections were completely protected against B. rodhaini, resulting in low parasitemia and no mortalities. Mice immunized with dead B. microti were not protected from B. rodhaini infection, although high antibody responses were induced. Interestingly, the protected mice had significantly decreased levels of antibody response, cytokines (including gamma interferon [IFN-γ], interleukin-2 [IL-2], IL-8, IL-10, and IL-12), and nitric oxide levels after infection with B. rodhaini. SCID mice and IFN-γ-deficient mice with chronic B. microti infections demonstrated protective responses comparable to those of immunocompetent mice. Likewise, in vivo NK cell depletion did not significantly impair the protective responses. Conversely, macrophage depletion resulted in increased susceptibility to B. rodhaini infection associated with changes in their antibody and cytokines profiles, indicating that macrophages contribute to the protection against this challenge infection. We conclude that future development of vaccines against Babesia should include a strategy that enhances the appropriate activation of macrophages.
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Luo Y, Jia H, Terkawi MA, Goo YK, Kawano S, Ooka H, Li Y, Yu L, Cao S, Yamagishi J, Fujisaki K, Nishikawa Y, Saito-Ito A, Igarashi I, Xuan X. Identification and characterization of a novel secreted antigen 1 of Babesia microti and evaluation of its potential use in enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and immunochromatographic test. Parasitol Int 2011; 60:119-25. [DOI: 10.1016/j.parint.2010.11.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2010] [Revised: 10/14/2010] [Accepted: 11/01/2010] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
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