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Villanueva-Saz S, Aranda MDC, Jiménez MDLÁ, de Andrés PJ, Verde M, Climent M, Lebrero Berna ME, Marteles Aragüés D, Fernández A. Serum protein electrophoresis in European mink ( Mustela lutreola): reference intervals and comparison of agarose gel electrophoresis and capillary zone electrophoresis. Vet Q 2024; 44:1-11. [PMID: 38389258 PMCID: PMC10896155 DOI: 10.1080/01652176.2024.2318195] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2023] [Accepted: 12/29/2023] [Indexed: 02/24/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Knowledge of reference intervals for blood analytes, including serum protein fractions, is of great importance for the identification of infectious and inflammatory diseases and is often lacking in wild animal species. MATERIAL AND METHODS Serum samples were obtained from European minks enrolled in the breeding program (n = 55). Agarose gel electrophoresis (AGE) and capillary zone electrophoresis (CZE) were used to separate and identify protein fractions. Albumin, α1, α2, β, and γ-globulins fractions were identified in all mink sera by both electrophoresis methods. Reference intervals (90% CI) were determined following the 2008 guidelines of the Clinical Laboratory Standard Institute. The methods were compared using Passing-Bablok regression, Bland-Altman analysis, and Lin's concordance correlation. RESULTS A significant bias was found between methods for α1, α2, and γ-globulin. Lin's concordance correlation was considered unacceptable for α1, α2, and β-globulins. Differences for gender between methods were found for albumin and α2-globuins, which were higher for males than females. γ-globulins were higher for adults than young minks using both methods; however, α1 and α2-globulins were lower. CONCLUSION Both methods are adequate for identifying serum protein disorders, but the AGE and CZE methods are not equivalent. Therefore, reference intervals for each technique are required.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sergio Villanueva-Saz
- Animal Pathology Department, Veterinary Faculty, Zaragoza University, Zaragoza, Spain
- Clinical Immunology Laboratory, Veterinary Faculty, Zaragoza University, Zaragoza, Spain
- Aragon Agroalimentary Institute-IA2, Zaragoza University-CITA, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - María del Carmen Aranda
- FIEB Foundation (Fundación para la Investigación en etología y biodiversidad), Toledo, Spain
| | | | - Paloma Jimena de Andrés
- Department of Animal Medicine and Surgery, Veterinary Faculty, Complutense University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Maite Verde
- Animal Pathology Department, Veterinary Faculty, Zaragoza University, Zaragoza, Spain
- Clinical Immunology Laboratory, Veterinary Faculty, Zaragoza University, Zaragoza, Spain
- Aragon Agroalimentary Institute-IA2, Zaragoza University-CITA, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - María Climent
- Department of Anatomy, Embryology and Animal Genetic, Veterinary Faculty, Zaragoza University, Zaragoza, Spain
| | | | | | - Antonio Fernández
- Animal Pathology Department, Veterinary Faculty, Zaragoza University, Zaragoza, Spain
- Clinical Immunology Laboratory, Veterinary Faculty, Zaragoza University, Zaragoza, Spain
- Aragon Agroalimentary Institute-IA2, Zaragoza University-CITA, Zaragoza, Spain
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Olmeda P, Díaz-Regañón D, Villaescusa A, Amusategui I, García A, Herrero F, Tesouro MA, Rodríguez-Franco F, García-Sancho M, Martín-Fraile D, Sainz Á. Twenty-year evolution of Leishmania infantum infection in dogs in Valdeorras (Galicia, Northwestern Spain): implication of climatic factors and preventive measures. Parasit Vectors 2024; 17:281. [PMID: 38951858 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-024-06357-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2024] [Accepted: 06/15/2024] [Indexed: 07/03/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Abiotic factors play a significant role in the evolution of Leishmania infantum infection due to its vectorial nature. This study aims to assess the evolution in the detection of new L. infantum infection cases in Valdeorras (Ourense, Northwestern Spain) over a 20-year period and how different climatic variables and preventive measures may have affected it. METHODS Indirect immunofluorescence antibody tests (IFAT) were performed on serum samples collected from dogs attending the 'Servicios Veterinarios de Sil' veterinary clinic (Valdeorras, Northwestern Spain) between May 2003 and April 2023 to detect L. infantum exposure. The percentage of new cases of L. infantum infection was calculated from May of one year to April of the following year. Climatic conditions in the region, global sales of ectoparasiticides and the number of vaccines against L. infantum delivered in the veterinary clinic from 2003 to 2022 were recorded. Statistical analyses were conducted to determine the associations between these factors and the percentage of new cases of L. infantum infection. RESULTS A total of 2909 dogs were assessed, and 3785 IFAT tests were performed between May 2003 and April 2023. The mean percentage of new seropositive cases over the 20-year period studied was 21.65 ± 10.8%, with a decline from the beginning to the end of the period studied. The percentage was significantly higher between May 2003 and April 2008 compared with the other periods (May 2008 to April 2013, May 2013 to April 2018 and May 2018 to April 2023). There was a positive correlation between the percentage of new cases of L. infantum infection and the maximum relative humidity in winter. Conversely, there was a negative correlation between the percentage of new cases and sales of ectoparasiticides and vaccination against L. infantum. CONCLUSIONS This study is one of the longest evaluations of the evolution of L. infantum infection in a fixed location and its association with external factors including climatic conditions and preventive measures. The results confirm that Valdeorras is a high-risk area for L. infantum infection. The use of ectoparasiticides and vaccines against L. infantum has been shown to play a significant role in preventing L. infantum infection, highlighting the crucial role of veterinarians in the fight against this disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patricia Olmeda
- Department of Animal Medicine and Surgery, College of Veterinary Medicine, Complutense University of Madrid, Avda. Puerta de Hierro S/N, 28040, Madrid, Spain
| | - David Díaz-Regañón
- Department of Animal Medicine and Surgery, College of Veterinary Medicine, Complutense University of Madrid, Avda. Puerta de Hierro S/N, 28040, Madrid, Spain
| | - Alejandra Villaescusa
- Department of Animal Medicine and Surgery, College of Veterinary Medicine, Complutense University of Madrid, Avda. Puerta de Hierro S/N, 28040, Madrid, Spain
| | - Inmaculada Amusategui
- Department of Animal Medicine and Surgery, College of Veterinary Medicine, Complutense University of Madrid, Avda. Puerta de Hierro S/N, 28040, Madrid, Spain
| | - Adolfo García
- Veterinary Clinic "Servicios Veterinarios del Sil", C/ Coruña 9, O Barco de Valdeorras, 32300, Ourense, Spain
| | - Francisco Herrero
- Veterinary Clinic "Servicios Veterinarios del Sil", C/ Coruña 9, O Barco de Valdeorras, 32300, Ourense, Spain
| | - Miguel A Tesouro
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Surgery and Anatomy, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of León, Campus de Vegazana, 24071, León, Spain
| | - Fernando Rodríguez-Franco
- Department of Animal Medicine and Surgery, College of Veterinary Medicine, Complutense University of Madrid, Avda. Puerta de Hierro S/N, 28040, Madrid, Spain
| | - Mercedes García-Sancho
- Department of Animal Medicine and Surgery, College of Veterinary Medicine, Complutense University of Madrid, Avda. Puerta de Hierro S/N, 28040, Madrid, Spain
| | - Daniel Martín-Fraile
- Department of Animal Medicine and Surgery, College of Veterinary Medicine, Complutense University of Madrid, Avda. Puerta de Hierro S/N, 28040, Madrid, Spain
| | - Ángel Sainz
- Department of Animal Medicine and Surgery, College of Veterinary Medicine, Complutense University of Madrid, Avda. Puerta de Hierro S/N, 28040, Madrid, Spain.
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3
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Sanz CR, Sarquis J, Daza MÁ, Miró G. Exploring the impact of epidemiological and clinical factors on the progression of canine leishmaniosis by statistical and whole genome analyses: from breed predisposition to comorbidities. Int J Parasitol 2024; 54:401-414. [PMID: 38570155 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpara.2024.03.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2023] [Revised: 02/25/2024] [Accepted: 03/26/2024] [Indexed: 04/05/2024]
Abstract
Canine leishmaniosis (CanL), caused by Leishmania infantum, is a complex disease of growing importance in Europe. Clinical manifestations result from the down-modulation of the host immune response through multiple host-parasite interactions. Although several factors might influence CanL progression, this is the first known study evaluating risk factors for its different clinical stages in a large referral hospital population (n = 35.669) from an endemic area, over a 20 year period. Genome-wide scans for selection signatures were also conducted to explore the genomic component of clinical susceptibility to L. infantum infection. The prevalence of CanL was 3.2% (16.7% stage I; 43.6% stage II; 32.1% stage III; 7.6% stage IV). Dog breed (crossbreed), bodyweight (<10 kg), living conditions (indoors), regular deworming treatment, and being vaccinated against Leishmania significantly decreased the transmission risk and the risk for developing severe clinical forms. Conversely, the detection of comorbidities was associated with advanced clinical forms, particularly chronic kidney disease, neoplasia, cryptorchidism, infectious tracheobronchitis and urate urolithiasis, although those did not impact the clinical outcome. Significant associations between an increased risk of severe clinical stages and findings in the anamnesis (renal or skin-related manifestations) and physical examination (ocular findings) were also detected, highlighting their diagnostic value in referred cases of CanL. Sixteen breeds were found to be significantly more susceptible to developing severe stages of leishmaniosis (e.g. Great Dane, Rottweiler, English Springer Spaniel, Boxer, American Staffordshire Terrier, Golden Retriever), while 20 breeds displayed a clinical resistantance phenotype and, thus, are more likely to mount an efficient immune response against L. infantum (e.g. Pointer, Samoyed, Spanish Mastiff, Spanish Greyhound, English Setter, Siberian Husky). Genomic analyses of these breeds retrieved 12 regions under selection, 63 candidate genes and pinpointed multiple biological pathways such as the IRE1 branch of the unfolded protein response, which could play a critical role in clinical susceptibility to L. infantum infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carolina R Sanz
- Animal Health Department, Veterinary Faculty, Complutense University of Madrid, Av. Puerta de Hierro s/n, Madrid 28040, Spain.
| | - Juliana Sarquis
- Animal Health Department, Veterinary Faculty, Complutense University of Madrid, Av. Puerta de Hierro s/n, Madrid 28040, Spain
| | - María Ángeles Daza
- Veterinary Teaching Hospital, Veterinary Faculty, Complutense University of Madrid, Av. Puerta Hierro s/n, Madrid 28040, Spain; Department of Animal Medicine and Surgery, Veterinary Faculty, Complutense University of Madrid, Av. Puerta de Hierro s/n, Madrid 28040, Spain
| | - Guadalupe Miró
- Animal Health Department, Veterinary Faculty, Complutense University of Madrid, Av. Puerta de Hierro s/n, Madrid 28040, Spain; Veterinary Teaching Hospital, Veterinary Faculty, Complutense University of Madrid, Av. Puerta Hierro s/n, Madrid 28040, Spain.
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de Jong MK, van Eijk D, Broere F, Piek CJ. Owners' experiences of administering meglumine antimoniate injections to dogs with leishmaniosis: An online questionnaire study. Vet Rec 2024; 194:e4089. [PMID: 38809570 DOI: 10.1002/vetr.4089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2023] [Revised: 03/07/2024] [Accepted: 03/19/2024] [Indexed: 05/30/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND This study examined the experiences of owners of dogs with leishmaniosis who treated their dogs with daily subcutaneous meglumine antimoniate injections. The owners' perceived ease of administering the injections, the occurrence of problems and the effects on the owners and on the dog‒owner bond were evaluated. METHODS Dogs prescribed meglumine antimoniate as a treatment for leishmaniosis were identified using the database of the veterinary pharmacy of the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University. An online questionnaire was sent to the owners of these dogs to evaluate the perceived ease of administering the injections, the occurrence of problems and the effects on the owner and the dog-owner bond. RESULTS Responses were received from 64 dog owners. Most respondents (78%) reported that administering the injections was not difficult. Pain or the development of nodules at the injection site was reported in 50% and 40% of the dogs, respectively. Polyuria was reported in 44% of the dogs. Some owners reported that administering the injections had a negative impact on their psychological wellbeing (20%), and some would have liked more veterinary support (11%). LIMITATIONS Some questions were answered by a limited number of people, and their responses may not be representative. CONCLUSION Dog owners remain highly motivated to persevere with meglumine antimoniate treatment and are willing to administer the injections themselves. The availability of active support when needed during the therapy cycle may further improve their acceptance of and confidence in giving the injections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marja K de Jong
- Department of Clinical Sciences of Companion Animals, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Demy van Eijk
- Department of Clinical Sciences of Companion Animals, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Femke Broere
- Department of Clinical Sciences of Companion Animals, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Christine J Piek
- Department of Clinical Sciences of Companion Animals, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
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Nascimento LFDJ, Amado-Gomes AC, Dantas-Torres F, Santos FLN, Neres WDS, Filho PEDS, Santos MT, Silva JRS, Resende CF, Dos Reis JKP, Jain S, Cunha JLR, Fujiwara RT, Dolabella SS. Feline leishmaniasis in an animal shelter in northeastern Brazil: Clinical aspects, coinfections, molecular detection, and serological study of a new recombinant protein. Res Vet Sci 2024; 172:105256. [PMID: 38613921 DOI: 10.1016/j.rvsc.2024.105256] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2023] [Revised: 03/19/2024] [Accepted: 04/07/2024] [Indexed: 04/15/2024]
Abstract
Infection and clinical cases of leishmaniasis caused by Leishmania infantum in cats have been increasingly reported in several countries, including Brazil. In this study, we used an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and an immunochromatographic test (ICT) based on a recombinant antigen (rKDDR-plus) to detect anti-Leishmania antibodies in cats from an animal shelter in northeastern Brazil. We compared the results with an ELISA using L. infantum crude antigen (ELISA-CA). We also investigated the presence of Leishmania DNA in blood or ocular conjunctival samples as well as the association between Leishmania PCR positivity and serological positivity to feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV), feline leukemia virus (FeLV) and Toxoplasma gondii. Concerning serological assays, a higher positivity was detected using the ICT-rKDDR-plus (7.5%; 7/93) as compared to ELISA-rKDDR-plus (5.4%; 5/93) and ELISA-CA (4.3%; 4/93). Upon PCR testing, 52.7% (49/93) of the ocular conjunctival swabs and 48.3% (44/91) of the blood samples were positive. Together, PCR and serological testing revealed overall positivities of 73.1% (68/93) and 12.9% (12/93), respectively. Among PCR-positive samples, 45.5% (31/68) showed co-infection with FIV, 17.6% (12/68) with FeLV, and 82.3% (56/68) with T. gondii. More than half of the PCR-positive cats showed at least one clinical sign suggestive of leishmaniasis (58.8%; 40/68) and dermatological signs were the most frequent ones (45.5%; 31/68). Both tests employing the recombinant antigen rKDDR-plus (i.e., ICT-rKDDR-plus and ELISA-rKDDR-plus) detected more positive cats than the ELISA-CA but presented low overall accuracy. PCR testing using either blood or ocular conjunctival samples detected much more positive cats than serological tests.
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MESH Headings
- Cats
- Animals
- Cat Diseases/diagnosis
- Cat Diseases/parasitology
- Cat Diseases/virology
- Cat Diseases/blood
- Cat Diseases/epidemiology
- Brazil/epidemiology
- Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay/veterinary
- Immunodeficiency Virus, Feline/isolation & purification
- Coinfection/veterinary
- Coinfection/parasitology
- Coinfection/epidemiology
- Coinfection/virology
- Leishmania infantum/isolation & purification
- Leukemia Virus, Feline/genetics
- Leukemia Virus, Feline/immunology
- Recombinant Proteins
- Male
- Female
- Toxoplasma
- Antibodies, Protozoan/blood
- Leishmaniasis, Visceral/veterinary
- Leishmaniasis, Visceral/diagnosis
- Leishmaniasis, Visceral/epidemiology
- Leishmaniasis, Visceral/blood
- Polymerase Chain Reaction/veterinary
- Toxoplasmosis, Animal/diagnosis
- Toxoplasmosis, Animal/epidemiology
- Toxoplasmosis, Animal/blood
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Fred Luciano Neves Santos
- Integrated Translational Program in Chagas Disease from Fiocruz (Fio-Chagas), Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (Fiocruz-RJ), Rio de Janeiro, Brazil; Advanced Public Health Laboratory, Gonçalo Moniz Institute, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, Salvador, Brazil
| | - Wemerson de Santana Neres
- Graduate Program in Physiological Sciences, Federal University of Sergipe, São Cristóvão, SE, Brazil
| | | | - Mariana Tibúrcio Santos
- Graduate Program in Parasite Biology, Federal University of Sergipe, São Cristóvão, SE, Brazil
| | | | - Cláudia Fideles Resende
- Department of Veterinary Preventive Medicine, Veterinary School, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | | | - Sona Jain
- Graduate Program in Parasite Biology, Federal University of Sergipe, São Cristóvão, SE, Brazil; Graduate Program in Industrial Biotechnology, Tiradentes University, SE, Brazil
| | - João Luís Reis Cunha
- York Biomedical Research Institute and Department of Biology, University of York, York, United Kingdom
| | - Ricardo Toshio Fujiwara
- Graduate Program in Parasite Biology, Federal University of Sergipe, São Cristóvão, SE, Brazil; Department of Parasitology, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil.
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García M, Ferrer L, Ordeix L. Critically Appraised Topic on Canine Leishmaniosis: Does Treatment with Antimonials and Allopurinol Have the Same Clinical and Clinicopathological Efficacy as Treatment with Miltefosine and Allopurinol, after One Month of Treatment? Vet Sci 2024; 11:231. [PMID: 38921978 PMCID: PMC11209642 DOI: 10.3390/vetsci11060231] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2024] [Revised: 04/25/2024] [Accepted: 05/18/2024] [Indexed: 06/27/2024] Open
Abstract
The treatment of canine leishmaniosis commonly involves meglumine antimoniate with allopurinol or miltefosine with allopurinol. This study aims to compare the clinical and clinicopathological efficacy at 28-30 days of conventional dosing regimens for both treatments using the critically appraised topic methodology. A comprehensive search across three databases (PubMed, CAB Abstracts, and Web of Science) from March 2004 to September 2023 yielded 16 relevant articles, encompassing 325 ogs treated with meglumine antimoniate and allopurinol, and 273 dogs treated with miltefosine and allopurinol. The findings indicated a significantly higher rate of complete clinical cure in the group treated with meglumine antimoniate and allopurinol. Most dogs in both groups exhibited improvement in clinicopathological alterations after one month of treatment. No significant difference was observed in the number of dogs that showed a negative Leishmania qPCR between the two groups, one month post-treatment. However, quantitative serology results were not commonly reported in the available data and therefore this aspect could not be compared.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Laura Ordeix
- Departament de Medicina i Cirurgia Animals, Fundació Hospital Clínic Veterinari, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08193 Bellaterra, Spain; (M.G.); (L.F.)
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Amato A, Cavallo C, Marín-García PJ, Emmanuele G, Tomasello M, Tomasella C, Floridia V, Liotta L, Llobat L. Effect of Breed on Hematological and Biochemical Parameters of Apparently Healthy Dogs Infected with Zoonotic Pathogens Endemic to the Mediterranean Basin. Animals (Basel) 2024; 14:1516. [PMID: 38891563 PMCID: PMC11171318 DOI: 10.3390/ani14111516] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2024] [Revised: 05/02/2024] [Accepted: 05/20/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Dogs are considered the main reservoir of several zoonoses endemic to the Mediterranean Basin. In this study, a prevalence of infections and coinfections of canine vector-borne diseases was analyzed in apparently healthy dogs of different canine pure breeds in Sicily (Italy), where these diseases are endemic. The seroprevalence of Leishmania infantum, Ricketsia ricketsii, Anaplasma phagocytophilum, and Erlichia canis was assessed, as single and coinfections. Biochemical and hematological parameters were evaluated, and epidemiological factors, including sex, age, and canine breed, were recovered. The most frequent infection was L. infantum (45.61%), following R. ricketsii (36.84%), both as single, double, or triple coinfections. Coinfections change the biochemical and hematological parameters of the host, and canine breeds are related to the infection frequency and the parameters observed during infections. Changes in the complete blood count (CBC) and biochemical values also differ between canine breeds, with the Cirneco dell'Etna dogs infected with L. infantum being the animals presenting the most interesting results in our study. High values of RBC, hemoglobin, hematocrit, mean corpuscular hemoglobin (MCH), the albumin/globulin (A/G) ratio, and albumin and low levels of β-2 globulin and γ-globulin were found only in this canine breed, suggesting some resistance to infection in these dogs. Future studies about the immune response of this canine breed could be interesting to determine their possible resistance to zoonotic pathogens, such as L. infantum.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annalisa Amato
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, 98168 Messina, Italy; (A.A.); (C.C.); (V.F.)
| | - Carmelo Cavallo
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, 98168 Messina, Italy; (A.A.); (C.C.); (V.F.)
| | - Pablo Jesús Marín-García
- Departamento Producción y Sanidad Animal, Salud Pública y Ciencia y Tecnología de los Alimentos (PASAPTA), Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad Cardenal Herrera-CEU, CEU Universities, 46113 Valencia, Spain;
| | - Giovanni Emmanuele
- BIOGENE, Veterinary Diagnostic Center, 95127 Catania, Italy; (G.E.); (M.T.); (C.T.)
| | - Mario Tomasello
- BIOGENE, Veterinary Diagnostic Center, 95127 Catania, Italy; (G.E.); (M.T.); (C.T.)
| | - Cristina Tomasella
- BIOGENE, Veterinary Diagnostic Center, 95127 Catania, Italy; (G.E.); (M.T.); (C.T.)
| | - Viviana Floridia
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, 98168 Messina, Italy; (A.A.); (C.C.); (V.F.)
| | - Luigi Liotta
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, 98168 Messina, Italy; (A.A.); (C.C.); (V.F.)
| | - Lola Llobat
- Molecular Mechanisns of Zoonotic Diseases (MMOPS) Research Group, Departamento Producción y Sanidad Animal, Salud Pública y Ciencia y Tecnología de los Alimentos (PASAPTA), Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad Cardenal Herrera-CEU, CEU Universities, 46113 Valencia, Spain
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8
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Vijayasurya, Gupta S, Shah S, Pappachan A. Drug repurposing for parasitic protozoan diseases. PROGRESS IN MOLECULAR BIOLOGY AND TRANSLATIONAL SCIENCE 2024; 207:23-58. [PMID: 38942539 DOI: 10.1016/bs.pmbts.2024.05.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/30/2024]
Abstract
Protozoan parasites are major hazards to human health, society, and the economy, especially in equatorial regions of the globe. Parasitic diseases, including leishmaniasis, malaria, and others, contribute towards majority of morbidity and mortality. Around 1.1 million people die from these diseases annually. The lack of licensed vaccinations worsens the worldwide impact of these diseases, highlighting the importance of safe and effective medications for their prevention and treatment. However, the appearance of drug resistance in parasites continuously affects the availability of medications. The demand for novel drugs motivates global antiparasitic drug discovery research, necessitating the implementation of many innovative ways to maintain a continuous supply of promising molecules. Drug repurposing has come out as a compelling tool for drug development, offering a cost-effective and efficient alternative to standard de novo approaches. A thorough examination of drug repositioning candidates revealed that certain drugs may not benefit significantly from their original indications. Still, they may exhibit more pronounced effects in other disorders. Furthermore, certain medications can produce a synergistic effect, resulting in enhanced therapeutic effectiveness when given together. In this chapter, we outline the approaches employed in drug repurposing (sometimes referred to as drug repositioning), propose novel strategies to overcome these hurdles and fully exploit the promise of drug repurposing. We highlight a few major human protozoan diseases and a range of exemplary drugs repurposed for various protozoan infections, providing excellent outcomes for each disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vijayasurya
- School of Life Sciences, Central University of Gujarat, Gandhinagar, Gujarat, India
| | - Swadha Gupta
- School of Life Sciences, Central University of Gujarat, Gandhinagar, Gujarat, India
| | - Smit Shah
- School of Life Sciences, Central University of Gujarat, Gandhinagar, Gujarat, India
| | - Anju Pappachan
- School of Life Sciences, Central University of Gujarat, Gandhinagar, Gujarat, India.
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9
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Cocco R, Sechi S, Rizzo M, Bonomo A, Arfuso F, Giudice E. Haematochemical Profile of Healthy Dogs Seropositive for Single or Multiple Vector-Borne Pathogens. Vet Sci 2024; 11:205. [PMID: 38787177 PMCID: PMC11126013 DOI: 10.3390/vetsci11050205] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2024] [Revised: 04/24/2024] [Accepted: 05/07/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND the present study aimed to investigate the immunological response to common vector-borne pathogens and to evaluate their impact on haematochemical parameters in owned dogs. METHODS Blood samples were collected from 400 clinically healthy dogs living in an endemic area (Sardinia Island, Italy). All dogs were serologically tested for VBDs and divided into groups based on their negative (Neg) or positive response towards Ehrlichia (Ehrl), Rickettsia (Rick), Leishmania (Leish), Borrelia (Borr), Anaplasma (Anapl), and Bartonella (Barto). A Kruskall-Wallis's test, followed by Dunn's post hoc comparison test, was applied to determine the statistical effect of negativity and single or multiple positivity on the studied parameters. RESULTS the group of dogs simultaneously presenting antibodies towards Leishmania, Ehrlichia, and Rickettsia showed higher values of total proteins, globulins, creatine phosphokinase, aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, and amylase than dogs that tested negative or dogs with antibodies toward a single pathogen investigated herein. CONCLUSIONS Our results seem to suggest that exposure to more vector-borne pathogens could lead to greater liver function impairment and a greater inflammatory state. Further investigations are needed in order to better clarify how co-infections affect haematochemical patterns in dogs living in endemic areas of VBDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raffaella Cocco
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, Teaching Veterinary Hospital, University of Sassari, Via Vienna 2, 07100 Sassari, Italy; (R.C.); (S.S.)
| | - Sara Sechi
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, Teaching Veterinary Hospital, University of Sassari, Via Vienna 2, 07100 Sassari, Italy; (R.C.); (S.S.)
| | - Maria Rizzo
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, Polo Universitario dell’Annunziata, 98168 Messina, Italy; (A.B.); (F.A.); (E.G.)
| | - Andrea Bonomo
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, Polo Universitario dell’Annunziata, 98168 Messina, Italy; (A.B.); (F.A.); (E.G.)
| | - Francesca Arfuso
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, Polo Universitario dell’Annunziata, 98168 Messina, Italy; (A.B.); (F.A.); (E.G.)
| | - Elisabetta Giudice
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, Polo Universitario dell’Annunziata, 98168 Messina, Italy; (A.B.); (F.A.); (E.G.)
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10
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Gultekin G, Ulutas PA. Fibroblast growth factor-23 and Alpha-Klotho concentrations in dogs with canine Leishmaniasis. Res Vet Sci 2024; 171:105234. [PMID: 38547738 DOI: 10.1016/j.rvsc.2024.105234] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2023] [Revised: 01/16/2024] [Accepted: 03/17/2024] [Indexed: 04/17/2024]
Abstract
This study aimed to assess the concentrations of Fibroblast Growth Factor-23 (FGF-23) and α-Klotho in healthy dogs and dogs at different stages of Canine Leishmaniasis (CanL), and investigate the changes of these parameters in relation to renal function and calcium‑phosphorus metabolism. A total of 74 dogs (22 healthy and 52 with CanL) of varying ages, sexes, and medium-sized breeds were included. Dogs with CanL were categorized into different stages (Stage I-IV) based on Leishvet recommendations. In addition to routine hematological parameters, plasma FGF-23, serum α-Klotho, urea, creatinine, phosphorus, calcium, parathormone, vitamin D concentrations, and urine protein/creatinine ratio were measured. Data from healthy dogs were compared to dogs with CanL overall and by stage. Dogs with CanL exhibited higher concentrations of FGF-23 (p < 0.05), α-Klotho, and parathormone (p < 0.001), as well as lower concentrations of vitamin D and calcium (p < 0.001). FGF-23 concentration was particularly elevated in Stage IV compared to other stages. However, no significant differences in α-Klotho levels were observed among the stages. FGF-23 levels showed a weak positive correlation with urea and creatinine concentrations and a moderate positive correlation with urine protein/creatinine ratio. This study demonstrated increased levels of FGF-23 and α-Klotho in dogs with CanL for the first time. The increase in FGF-23 levels was more prominent in advanced stages of the disease and correlated with higher urea and creatinine concentrations. These findings may serve as a basis for future diagnostic and therapeutic investigations, contributing to the understanding of the pathophysiology of kidney disease in CanL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gamze Gultekin
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Aydin Adnan Menderes, Aydin, Turkey.
| | - Pinar Alkim Ulutas
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Aydin Adnan Menderes, Aydin, Turkey
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11
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Moreira G, Maia R, Soares N, Ostolin T, Coura-Vital W, Aguiar-Soares R, Ruiz J, Resende D, de Brito R, Reis A, Roatt B. Synthetic Peptides Selected by Immunoinformatics as Potential Tools for the Specific Diagnosis of Canine Visceral Leishmaniasis. Microorganisms 2024; 12:906. [PMID: 38792746 PMCID: PMC11123790 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms12050906] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2024] [Revised: 04/25/2024] [Accepted: 04/28/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Diagnosing canine visceral leishmaniasis (CVL) in Brazil faces challenges due to the limitations regarding the sensitivity and specificity of the current diagnostic protocol. Therefore, it is urgent to map new antigens or enhance the existing ones for future diagnostic techniques. Immunoinformatic tools are promising in the identification of new potential epitopes or antigen candidates. In this study, we evaluated peptides selected by epitope prediction for CVL serodiagnosis in ELISA assays. Ten B-cell epitopes were immunogenic in silico, but two peptides (peptides No. 45 and No. 48) showed the best performance in vitro. The selected peptides, both individually and in combination, were highly diagnostically accurate, with sensitivities ranging from 86.4% to 100% and with a specificity of approximately 90%. We observed that the combination of peptides showed better performance when compared to peptide alone, by detecting all asymptomatic dogs, showing lower cross-reactivity in sera from dogs with other canine infections, and did not detect vaccinated animals. Moreover, our data indicate the potential use of immunoinformatic tools associated with ELISA assays for the selection and evaluation of potential new targets, such as peptides, applied to the diagnosis of CVL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriel Moreira
- Laboratório de Imunopatologia, Núcleo de Pesquisas em Ciências Biológicas/NUPEB, Universidade Federal de Ouro Preto, Ouro Preto 35400-000, MG, Brazil; (G.M.); (R.M.); (N.S.); (T.O.); (R.A.-S.); (R.d.B.); (A.R.)
| | - Rodrigo Maia
- Laboratório de Imunopatologia, Núcleo de Pesquisas em Ciências Biológicas/NUPEB, Universidade Federal de Ouro Preto, Ouro Preto 35400-000, MG, Brazil; (G.M.); (R.M.); (N.S.); (T.O.); (R.A.-S.); (R.d.B.); (A.R.)
| | - Nathália Soares
- Laboratório de Imunopatologia, Núcleo de Pesquisas em Ciências Biológicas/NUPEB, Universidade Federal de Ouro Preto, Ouro Preto 35400-000, MG, Brazil; (G.M.); (R.M.); (N.S.); (T.O.); (R.A.-S.); (R.d.B.); (A.R.)
| | - Thais Ostolin
- Laboratório de Imunopatologia, Núcleo de Pesquisas em Ciências Biológicas/NUPEB, Universidade Federal de Ouro Preto, Ouro Preto 35400-000, MG, Brazil; (G.M.); (R.M.); (N.S.); (T.O.); (R.A.-S.); (R.d.B.); (A.R.)
| | - Wendel Coura-Vital
- Departamento de Análises Clínicas, Escola de Farmácia, Universidade Federal de Ouro Preto, Ouro Preto 35400-000, MG, Brazil;
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Biológicas, Núcleo de Pesquisas em Ciências Biológicas/NUPEB, Universidade Federal de Ouro Preto, Ouro Preto 35400-000, MG, Brazil
| | - Rodrigo Aguiar-Soares
- Laboratório de Imunopatologia, Núcleo de Pesquisas em Ciências Biológicas/NUPEB, Universidade Federal de Ouro Preto, Ouro Preto 35400-000, MG, Brazil; (G.M.); (R.M.); (N.S.); (T.O.); (R.A.-S.); (R.d.B.); (A.R.)
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Biotecnologia, Núcleo de Pesquisas em Ciências Biológicas/NUPEB, Universidade Federal de Ouro Preto, Ouro Preto 35400-000, MG, Brazil
| | - Jeronimo Ruiz
- Grupo de Informática de Biossistemas e Genômica, Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências da Saúde, Instituto René Rachou, Fiocruz Minas, Belo Horizonte 30190-002, MG, Brazil; (J.R.); (D.R.)
| | - Daniela Resende
- Grupo de Informática de Biossistemas e Genômica, Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências da Saúde, Instituto René Rachou, Fiocruz Minas, Belo Horizonte 30190-002, MG, Brazil; (J.R.); (D.R.)
| | - Rory de Brito
- Laboratório de Imunopatologia, Núcleo de Pesquisas em Ciências Biológicas/NUPEB, Universidade Federal de Ouro Preto, Ouro Preto 35400-000, MG, Brazil; (G.M.); (R.M.); (N.S.); (T.O.); (R.A.-S.); (R.d.B.); (A.R.)
| | - Alexandre Reis
- Laboratório de Imunopatologia, Núcleo de Pesquisas em Ciências Biológicas/NUPEB, Universidade Federal de Ouro Preto, Ouro Preto 35400-000, MG, Brazil; (G.M.); (R.M.); (N.S.); (T.O.); (R.A.-S.); (R.d.B.); (A.R.)
- Departamento de Análises Clínicas, Escola de Farmácia, Universidade Federal de Ouro Preto, Ouro Preto 35400-000, MG, Brazil;
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Biológicas, Núcleo de Pesquisas em Ciências Biológicas/NUPEB, Universidade Federal de Ouro Preto, Ouro Preto 35400-000, MG, Brazil
- Instituto Nacional de Ciência e Tecnologia em Doenças Tropicais, INCT-DT, Salvador 40296-710, BA, Brazil
| | - Bruno Roatt
- Laboratório de Imunopatologia, Núcleo de Pesquisas em Ciências Biológicas/NUPEB, Universidade Federal de Ouro Preto, Ouro Preto 35400-000, MG, Brazil; (G.M.); (R.M.); (N.S.); (T.O.); (R.A.-S.); (R.d.B.); (A.R.)
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Biológicas, Núcleo de Pesquisas em Ciências Biológicas/NUPEB, Universidade Federal de Ouro Preto, Ouro Preto 35400-000, MG, Brazil
- Departamento de Ciências Biológicas, Instituto de Ciências Exatas e Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Ouro Preto, Ouro Preto 35400-000, MG, Brazil
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12
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Tsakmakidis I, Lefkaditis M, Zaralis K, Arsenos G. Alternative hosts of Leishmania infantum: a neglected parasite in Europe. Trop Anim Health Prod 2024; 56:128. [PMID: 38630347 PMCID: PMC11189345 DOI: 10.1007/s11250-024-03978-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2023] [Accepted: 04/05/2024] [Indexed: 04/19/2024]
Abstract
Multi-host pathogens that infect various animal species and humans are considered of great importance for public and animal health. Leishmania spp. parasites are a characteristic example of such pathogens. Although leishmaniosis in humans is endemic for about 100 countries around the world it is classified as a neglected tropical disease. There are three main forms of leishmaniosis in humans: cutaneous (CL), visceral (VL) and mucocutaneous leishmaniosis (MCL). Each year, about 30,000 new cases of VL and more than 1 million new cases of CL are recorded. In Europe L. infantum is the dominant species with dogs being reservoir hosts. Apart from dogs, infection has been recorded in various animals, which suggests that other species could play a role in the maintenance of the parasite in nature. Herein we provide an in-depth review of the literature with respect to studies that deal with Leishmania infantum infections in domestic and wild animal species in Europe. Given the fact that domesticated and wild animals could contribute to the incidences of leishmaniosis in humans, the aim of this paper is to provide a comprehensive review which could potentially be used for the development of measures when it comes to the control of the Leishmania infantum parasite.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ioannis Tsakmakidis
- School of Agricultural Sciences, Department of Agriculture, University of Western Macedonia, end of Kontopoulou str, Florina, 53100, Greece
| | | | - Konstantinos Zaralis
- School of Agricultural Sciences, Department of Agriculture, University of Western Macedonia, end of Kontopoulou str, Florina, 53100, Greece.
| | - Georgios Arsenos
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
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13
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Stoimenov GM, Tchakarova S. Detection of Leishmania infantum Antibodies in Stray Dogs from Nonendemic Areas in Bulgaria. Vector Borne Zoonotic Dis 2024. [PMID: 38621148 DOI: 10.1089/vbz.2023.0062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/17/2024] Open
Abstract
Background: Leishmaniasis is a zoonotic protozoan infection which is endemic in parts of Europe. Dogs are commonly affected by Leishmania infantum and are regarded as the main reservoir for humans' infection. Sporadic human cases are reported annually, mainly from the endemic south part of Bulgaria. However, no recent data on canine leishmaniasis geographical distribution in Bulgaria have been published. The aim of this study was to investigate the current seroprevalence rate of L. infantum in stray dogs from areas where this infection was not previously reported. Results: The estimated overall seroprevalence rate was 8.3% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 2.6-14.0) with no significant difference between the two examined districts [χ2 (1, N = 90) = 0.32, p = 0.69]. In Sofia, the seropositivity was 7.2% (95% CI: 0.9-13.5) and in Sofia (stolitsa) 11.0% (95% CI: 0-23.0). No association between sex and serological status [χ2 (1, N = 90) = 1.83, p = 0.27] and age and seropositivity [χ2 (2, N = 90) = 1.98, p = 0.52] was detected. High levels of antibodies (fourfold increase from the assay's cut-off) were observed in half of the positive dogs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Georgi M Stoimenov
- Department of Infectious Pathology and Food Hygiene, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Forestry, Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Simona Tchakarova
- Department of Exotic and Emerging Diseases, National Diagnostic and Research Veterinary Medical Institute, Sofia, Bulgaria
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14
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Durán-Galea A, Cristóbal-Verdejo JI, Barrera-Chacón R, Macías-García B, González-Solís MA, Nicolás-Barceló P, García-Ibáñez AB, Ruíz-Tapia P, Duque-Carrasco FJ. Clinical importance of neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio, platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio and systemic immune-inflammation index in dogs with leishmaniasis. Comp Immunol Microbiol Infect Dis 2024; 107:102148. [PMID: 38430666 DOI: 10.1016/j.cimid.2024.102148] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2023] [Revised: 02/15/2024] [Accepted: 02/16/2024] [Indexed: 03/05/2024]
Abstract
Leishmaniasis is a zoonotic disease caused by Leishmania spp., impacts multiple systems and organs. While hematological and biochemical profiles aren't definitive for diagnosis, recent studies have identified the neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR) and systemic immune-inflammation index (SII) as predictors of morbidity and mortality in critically ill human and dog patients. This study examined 100 dogs diagnosed with leishmaniasis, categorized by the International Renal Interest Society (IRIS) stages 1-4. Additionally, the dogs were divided based on whether they survived less or more than one year (L1Y and G1Y). Control group consisted of 43 dogs. The NLR increased as the disease progressed (IRIS 1-4), presenting statistically significant differences (P<0.05) when compared to the control group (2,37±2,08) IRIS 3 and 4 (4,59±13,39 and 6,99±12,86, respectively), and G1Y and L1Y (3,60±4,02 and 4,87±5,82, respectively). Significant changes in SII were only evident in short-term survivors (L1Y 951,93±1402) and advanced renal disease cases (IRIS 4 stage 1073,68±1901,09). Conversely, PLR remained largely unchanged. In conclusion, these results suggest that the neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) and systemic immune-inflammation index (SII) may serve as potential markers for assessing disease progression and prognosis in dogs diagnosed with leishmaniasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Durán-Galea
- Hospital clínico Veterinario, Universidad de Extremadura, Avenida de la universidad s/n, Cáceres 10003, Spain
| | - J I Cristóbal-Verdejo
- Hospital clínico Veterinario, Universidad de Extremadura, Avenida de la universidad s/n, Cáceres 10003, Spain.
| | - R Barrera-Chacón
- Departamento de Medicina Animal, Universidad de Extremadura, Avenida de la Universidad s/n, Cáceres 10003, Spain
| | - B Macías-García
- Departamento de Medicina Animal, Universidad de Extremadura, Avenida de la Universidad s/n, Cáceres 10003, Spain
| | - M A González-Solís
- Departamento de Medicina Animal, Universidad de Extremadura, Avenida de la Universidad s/n, Cáceres 10003, Spain
| | - P Nicolás-Barceló
- Hospital clínico Veterinario, Universidad de Extremadura, Avenida de la universidad s/n, Cáceres 10003, Spain
| | - A B García-Ibáñez
- Hospital clínico Veterinario, Universidad de Extremadura, Avenida de la universidad s/n, Cáceres 10003, Spain
| | - P Ruíz-Tapia
- Departamento de Medicina Animal, Universidad de Extremadura, Avenida de la Universidad s/n, Cáceres 10003, Spain
| | - F J Duque-Carrasco
- Departamento de Medicina Animal, Universidad de Extremadura, Avenida de la Universidad s/n, Cáceres 10003, Spain
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15
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Sarquis J, Parody N, Montoya A, Cacheiro-Llaguno C, Barrera JP, Checa R, Daza MA, Carnés J, Miró G. Clinical validation of circulating immune complexes for use as a diagnostic marker of canine leishmaniosis. Front Vet Sci 2024; 11:1368929. [PMID: 38562919 PMCID: PMC10984162 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2024.1368929] [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: 01/11/2024] [Accepted: 03/01/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Canine leishmaniosis (CanL) is a systemic disease that affects dogs. When multiplication of the parasite cannot be controlled, dogs consistently show high levels of antigen and IgG antibodies, which lead to the formation of circulating immune complexes (CIC). Timely intervention to reduce the parasite load and CIC levels is crucial for preventing irreversible organ damage. However, a diagnostic test to quantify CIC levels is currently lacking. Methods In this real-world study, we aimed to examine the performance of a new ELISA to measure CIC levels in dogs naturally infected with Leishmania infantum. Thirty-four dogs were treated according to their clinical condition and followed for 360 days. Before (day 0) and after treatment (days 30, 90, 180, 270, and 360), all dogs underwent a physical examination, and blood samples were obtained for CBC, biochemical profile, serum protein electrophoresis and IFAT. Serum PEG-precipitated CIC were determined by ELISA. Results Our results indicate higher CIC levels in dogs in advanced disease stages showing higher antibody titres (p < 0.0001, r = 0.735), anemia (p < 0.0001), dysproteinemia (p < 0.0001), and proteinuria (p = 0.004). Importantly, dogs responding well to treatment exhibited declining CIC levels (p < 0.0001), while in poor responders and those experiencing relapses, CIC were consistently elevated. CIC emerged as a robust discriminator of relapse, with an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.808. The optimal cut-off to accurately identify relapse was an optical density of 1.539. Discussion Our findings suggest that declining CIC levels should be expected in dogs showing a favorable treatment response. Conversely, in dogs displaying a poor response and recurrent clinical relapses, CIC levels will be high, emphasizing the need for vigilant monitoring. These findings suggest that CIC could serve as a valuable biomarker for disease progression, treatment efficacy, and relapse detection in CanL. Our study contributes to enhancing diagnostic approaches for CanL and underscores the potential of CIC as a complementary tool in veterinary practice. As we move forward, larger studies will be essential to confirm these findings and establish definitive cut-offs for clinical application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juliana Sarquis
- Department of Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Nuria Parody
- R&D Unit Allergy and Immunology, LETI Pharma S.L.U., Madrid, Spain
| | - Ana Montoya
- Department of Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | | | - Juan Pedro Barrera
- Department of Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Rocío Checa
- Department of Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - María Angeles Daza
- Small Animal Emergency and ICU Service, Veterinary Teaching Hospital, Faculty of Veterinary, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Jerónimo Carnés
- R&D Unit Allergy and Immunology, LETI Pharma S.L.U., Madrid, Spain
| | - Guadalupe Miró
- Department of Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
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16
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Pabon-Rodriguez FM, Brown GD, Scorza BM, Petersen CA. Within-host bayesian joint modeling of longitudinal and time-to-event data of Leishmania infection. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0297175. [PMID: 38335163 PMCID: PMC10857584 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0297175] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2023] [Accepted: 12/30/2023] [Indexed: 02/12/2024] Open
Abstract
The host immune system plays a significant role in managing and clearing pathogen material during an infection, but this complex process presents numerous challenges from a modeling perspective. There are many mathematical and statistical models for these kinds of processes that take into account a wide range of events that happen within the host. In this work, we present a Bayesian joint model of longitudinal and time-to-event data of Leishmania infection that considers the interplay between key drivers of the disease process: pathogen load, antibody level, and disease. The longitudinal model also considers approximate inflammatory and regulatory immune factors. In addition to measuring antibody levels produced by the immune system, we adapt data from CD4+ and CD8+ T cell proliferation, and expression of interleukin 10, interferon-gamma, and programmed cell death 1 as inflammatory or regulatory factors mediating the disease process. The model is developed using data collected from a cohort of dogs naturally exposed to Leishmania infantum. The cohort was chosen to start with healthy infected animals, and this is the majority of the data. The model also characterizes the relationship features of the longitudinal outcomes and time-to-death due to progressive Leishmania infection. In addition to describing the mechanisms causing disease progression and impacting the risk of death, we also present the model's ability to predict individual trajectories of Canine Leishmaniosis (CanL) progression. The within-host model structure we present here provides a way forward to address vital research questions regarding the understanding of the progression of complex chronic diseases such as Visceral Leishmaniasis, a parasitic disease causing significant morbidity worldwide.
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Affiliation(s)
- Felix M. Pabon-Rodriguez
- Department of Biostatistics, The University of Iowa College of Public Health, Iowa City, Iowa, United States of America
| | - Grant D. Brown
- Department of Biostatistics, The University of Iowa College of Public Health, Iowa City, Iowa, United States of America
| | - Breanna M. Scorza
- Department of Epidemiology, The University of Iowa College of Public Health, Iowa City, Iowa, United States of America
- Center for Emerging Infectious Diseases, The University of Iowa College of Public Health, Iowa City, Iowa, United States of America
| | - Christine A. Petersen
- Department of Epidemiology, The University of Iowa College of Public Health, Iowa City, Iowa, United States of America
- Center for Emerging Infectious Diseases, The University of Iowa College of Public Health, Iowa City, Iowa, United States of America
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17
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Rösch S, Woitas J, Neumann S, Alef M, Kiefer I, Oechtering G. Diagnostic benefits of platelet-to-lymphocyte, neutrophil-to-lymphocyte, and albumin-to-globulin ratios in dogs with nasal cavity diseases. BMC Vet Res 2024; 20:44. [PMID: 38310231 PMCID: PMC10837884 DOI: 10.1186/s12917-024-03876-5] [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: 06/11/2023] [Accepted: 01/01/2024] [Indexed: 02/05/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND A multimodal approach for diagnostic tests under anesthesia is required to diagnose nasal cavity pathology (NP) reliably in dogs. Blood test results may provide clues to the suspected NP. METHODS This prospective blinded study assessed 72 dogs with chronic nasal discharge due to NPs, and 10 healthy dogs as the control group (CG). NPs were diagnosed using whole-body computed tomography (CT), upper airway endoscopy, examination of nasal mucosal swabs by bacterial and fungal culture, and histopathological examination of nasal mucosa biopsies. The exclusion criteria were the presence of any additional diseases or corticosteroid pre-treatment. In consideration of these exclusion criteria, 55 dogs entered the study. Dogs were classified into benign (benign tumors, idiopathic rhinitis (IR), and others) and malignant (carcinomas and sarcomas) NP groups. Blood count and blood chemistry tests were performed. The neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR), and albumin-to-globulin ratio (AGR) were calculated and compared. RESULTS 25 dogs with malignant NP (13 and 12 with carcinomas and sarcomas, respectively) and 30 dogs with benign NP (seven with benign tumors,13 with IR, and 10 others) were included. In general, in dogs with NP there were only slight abnormalities in complete blood count. However, PLR was significantly higher in dogs with malignant NP (carcinoma and sarcoma) than in those with benign NP and in the CG. Compared with the CG, the NLR was significantly increased in all dogs with NP, and the AGR was mild but significantly lower, except in dogs with sarcomas and benign tumors. CONCLUSIONS In dogs with nasal disease alone, there are usually no marked abnormalities in blood count. However, while mildly increased NLR and decreased AGR can be observed in almost all NPs, an increased PLR may indicate a malignant NP and can be used as an additional screening tool in dogs with nasal discharge due to nasal cavity pathology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Rösch
- Small Animal Department, ENT-Unit, University of Leipzig, An den Tierkliniken 23, Leipzig, SN, DE- 04103, Germany.
- Current affiliation: Clinic for Small Animals, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover Foundation, Bünteweg 9, Hannover, NI, DE-30559, Germany.
| | - Julia Woitas
- Small Animal Department, ENT-Unit, University of Leipzig, An den Tierkliniken 23, Leipzig, SN, DE- 04103, Germany
| | - Stephan Neumann
- Institute of Veterinary Medicine, University of Goettingen, Burckhardtweg 2, Goettingen, NI, DE-37077, Germany
| | - Michaele Alef
- Small Animal Department, University of Leipzig, An den Tierkliniken 23, Leipzig, SN, DE-04103, Germany
| | - Ingmar Kiefer
- Small Animal Department, University of Leipzig, An den Tierkliniken 23, Leipzig, SN, DE-04103, Germany
| | - Gerhard Oechtering
- Small Animal Department, ENT-Unit, University of Leipzig, An den Tierkliniken 23, Leipzig, SN, DE- 04103, Germany.
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18
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Villanueva-Saz S, Lebrero ME, Solsona A, Ramos JJ, de Arcaute MR, Ruíz H, Pérez MD, Bello JM, Verde M, Ortín A, Marteles D, Fernández A, Gómez A, Trotta M, Lacasta D. Presence of anti-Leishmania infantum antibodies in sheep (Ovis aries) in Spain. Vet Res Commun 2024; 48:615-621. [PMID: 37819486 PMCID: PMC10811003 DOI: 10.1007/s11259-023-10221-y] [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: 06/13/2023] [Accepted: 09/16/2023] [Indexed: 10/13/2023]
Abstract
Sandflies are the primary transmission vector for Leishmania spp parasite in endemic regions. The role of other animals, different from the dog, is under discussion in the leishmaniosis endemic countries. A limited number of reports have been published on the possible role of livestock in European countries for Leishmania maintenance and diffusion. The aim of the present study was to perform a serosurvey on sheep in areas of Spain that are endemic for zoonotic leishmaniosis and establish the possible role of sheep regarding Leishmania infantum infection in endemic areas. Three hundred and two serum samples were obtained from sheep and were evaluated for serological survey to detect L. infantum by using the in-house ELISA technique. Twenty-eight out of the 302 samples included in this study, were positive for L. infantum antibodies (9.27%). In the present study, a significant association was found between adult age and seropositivity (p = 0.006) and female gender and seropositivity (p = 0.02). This association has not been previously described in other European studies related to L. infantum infection in sheep. Our study reveals that domestic sheep in a European Mediterranean country are exposed to L. infantum. To our knowledge, this study demonstrates the presence of seropositive sheep in different regions of Spain for the first time. Further epidemiological studies focus on evaluating the rural cycle of this parasite to know if livestock could act as a potential reservoir are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sergio Villanueva-Saz
- Clinical Immunology Laboratory, Veterinary Faculty, University of Zaragoza, Zaragoza, 50013, Spain.
- Department of Animal Pathology, Veterinary Faculty, University of Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain.
- Instituto Agroalimentario de Aragón-IA2 (Universidad de Zaragoza-CITA), Zaragoza, Spain.
| | - María Eugenia Lebrero
- Department of Animal Pathology, Veterinary Faculty, University of Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Alba Solsona
- Department of Animal Pathology, Veterinary Faculty, University of Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Juan José Ramos
- Department of Animal Pathology, Veterinary Faculty, University of Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain
- Instituto Agroalimentario de Aragón-IA2 (Universidad de Zaragoza-CITA), Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Marta Ruíz de Arcaute
- Department of Animal Pathology, Veterinary Faculty, University of Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Héctor Ruíz
- Department of Animal Pathology, Veterinary Faculty, University of Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - María D Pérez
- Instituto Agroalimentario de Aragón-IA2 (Universidad de Zaragoza-CITA), Zaragoza, Spain
- Department of Animal Production and Sciences of the Food, Veterinary Faculty, University of Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain
| | | | - Maite Verde
- Clinical Immunology Laboratory, Veterinary Faculty, University of Zaragoza, Zaragoza, 50013, Spain
- Department of Animal Pathology, Veterinary Faculty, University of Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain
- Instituto Agroalimentario de Aragón-IA2 (Universidad de Zaragoza-CITA), Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Aurora Ortín
- Department of Animal Pathology, Veterinary Faculty, University of Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain
- Instituto Agroalimentario de Aragón-IA2 (Universidad de Zaragoza-CITA), Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Diana Marteles
- Clinical Immunology Laboratory, Veterinary Faculty, University of Zaragoza, Zaragoza, 50013, Spain
| | - Antonio Fernández
- Clinical Immunology Laboratory, Veterinary Faculty, University of Zaragoza, Zaragoza, 50013, Spain
- Department of Animal Pathology, Veterinary Faculty, University of Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain
- Instituto Agroalimentario de Aragón-IA2 (Universidad de Zaragoza-CITA), Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Alex Gómez
- Department of Animal Pathology, Veterinary Faculty, University of Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Michele Trotta
- Clinical Immunology Laboratory, Veterinary Faculty, University of Zaragoza, Zaragoza, 50013, Spain
| | - Delia Lacasta
- Department of Animal Pathology, Veterinary Faculty, University of Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain
- Instituto Agroalimentario de Aragón-IA2 (Universidad de Zaragoza-CITA), Zaragoza, Spain
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19
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Mahdavi R, Martinkovic F, Shams-Eldin H, Pereira IE, Reis AB, Latz A, Heinz D, Aira C, Fresco-Taboada A, Abass E, Romero-Olmedo J, Teixeira HC, Steinhoff U. Comparative Study of a Novel Lateral Flow Rapid Test with Conventional Serological Test Systems for the Diagnosis of Canine Leishmaniosis in Croatia and Brazil. Pathogens 2024; 13:109. [PMID: 38392847 PMCID: PMC10892489 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens13020109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2023] [Revised: 12/20/2023] [Accepted: 12/27/2023] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Control of canine infections with Leishmania infantum (L. infantum), a major zoonotic disease in Brazil and southern Europe, is becoming increasingly important due to its close proximity to humans, the increasing import of dogs from endemic regions and the impact of climate change on vector spreading. Simple, rapid and reliable diagnostic tests are therefore needed to detect infected dogs. Here, we re-evaluated different serological methods for the diagnosis of canine leishmaniosis (CanL) in Croatia and Brazil. The diagnostic performance of the indirect fluorescent antibody test (IFAT) and the VetLine® Leishmania ELISA (GSD Frankfurt, Germany) was compared with three rKLi8.3-based diagnostic test systems, the rKLi8.3 ELISA (GSD Frankfurt, Germany), the INgezim® Leishma CROM (GSD Madrid, Spain) lateral flow test (LFT) and the VetBlot®Leishmania LineBlot (GSD Frankfurt, Germany). CanL symptomatic dogs were efficiently diagnosed by all tests, except the VetLine® Leishmania ELISA, which is based on whole Leishmania antigens. The advantage of rKLi8.3 was also observed in oligo- and asymptomatic dogs from Brazil and Croatia, although with reduced diagnostic efficiency compared to symptomatic dogs. Similar to IFAT and rKLi8.3 ELISA, the LFT did not cross-react with other common canine pathogens; it showed very high specificity for healthy dogs from endemic regions in both countries and did not react with healthy, vaccinated dogs in Brazil. In conclusion, serodiagnostic tests based on the rKLi8.3 antigens are superior to whole parasite antigens, and the LFT has the advantage of providing a laboratory-independent, rapid and specific diagnosis of CanL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rouzbeh Mahdavi
- Institute of Medical Microbiology and Hospital Hygiene, Phillips University of Marburg, 35043 Marburg, Germany; (R.M.); (H.S.-E.); (J.R.-O.)
| | - Franjo Martinkovic
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Zagreb, HR-1000 Zagreb, Croatia;
| | - Hosam Shams-Eldin
- Institute of Medical Microbiology and Hospital Hygiene, Phillips University of Marburg, 35043 Marburg, Germany; (R.M.); (H.S.-E.); (J.R.-O.)
| | - Ingrid E. Pereira
- Department of Parasitology, Microbiology and Immunology, Federal University of Juiz de Fora, Juiz de Fora 36036-900, MG, Brazil (H.C.T.)
| | - Alexandre B. Reis
- School of Pharmacy, Federal University of Ouro Preto, Ouro Preto 35400-000, MG, Brazil;
| | - Andreas Latz
- Gold Standard Diagnostics Frankfurt (GSD Frankfurt), 63128 Dietzenbach, Germany; (A.L.); (D.H.)
| | - Daniela Heinz
- Gold Standard Diagnostics Frankfurt (GSD Frankfurt), 63128 Dietzenbach, Germany; (A.L.); (D.H.)
| | - Cristina Aira
- Gold Standard Diagnostics Madrid S.A. (GSD Madrid), 28037 Madrid, Spain; (C.A.); (A.F.-T.)
| | - Alba Fresco-Taboada
- Gold Standard Diagnostics Madrid S.A. (GSD Madrid), 28037 Madrid, Spain; (C.A.); (A.F.-T.)
| | - Elfadil Abass
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Science, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, Dammam 34212, Saudi Arabia;
| | - Jelena Romero-Olmedo
- Institute of Medical Microbiology and Hospital Hygiene, Phillips University of Marburg, 35043 Marburg, Germany; (R.M.); (H.S.-E.); (J.R.-O.)
| | - Henrique C. Teixeira
- Department of Parasitology, Microbiology and Immunology, Federal University of Juiz de Fora, Juiz de Fora 36036-900, MG, Brazil (H.C.T.)
| | - Ulrich Steinhoff
- Institute of Medical Microbiology and Hospital Hygiene, Phillips University of Marburg, 35043 Marburg, Germany; (R.M.); (H.S.-E.); (J.R.-O.)
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20
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Giner J, Lebrero ME, López-Sahuquillo D, Yzuel A, Marteles D, Fernández A, Gómez A, Villanueva-Saz S. Hyperbetaglobulinemia, anaemia and thrombocytopenia in a domestic ferret (Mustela putorius furo) associated to Leishmania infantum. Res Vet Sci 2024; 166:105096. [PMID: 38016219 DOI: 10.1016/j.rvsc.2023.105096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2023] [Revised: 10/22/2023] [Accepted: 11/16/2023] [Indexed: 11/30/2023]
Abstract
Leishmaniosis in domestic ferrets is a vector-borne disease caused in Europe by the protozoan parasite Leishmania infantum. There is limited information on clinical signs and laboratory abnormalities in ferrets due to leishmaniosis. This clinical case report described a domestic ferret (Mustela putorius furo) with severe hyperbetaglobulinemia, anaemia, thrombocytopenia, and abnormal renal parameters. A good clinical response following an anti-Leishmania infantum treatment protocol was achieved. However, the presence of pain at the site of injection was the main side effect due to meglumine antimoniate administration. Xanthine crystalluria was not observed in urine sediment with no other urine alterations detected by urine analysis during the follow-up. Initially, clinical signs noted in this ferret could not initially be attributed to leishmaniosis. However, no causes were found that could have caused the hyperglobulinemia in this patient. A reduction of the levels of anti-L. infantum serum antibodies and the concentrations of beta-globulin fraction was detected in this patient after anti-Leishmania treatment administered as well as the disappearance of thrombocytopenia. To extent of the knowledge of leishmaniosis in ferrets, this is the fourth case report of leishmaniosis documented in this species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacobo Giner
- Menescalia Veterinary Clinic, Ismael Merlo Actor, 5, 46020, Valencia, Spain; Clinical Immunology Laboratory, Veterinary Faculty, University of Zaragoza, Miguel Servet 177, 50013 Zaragoza, Spain; Animal Pathology Department, Veterinary Faculty, University of Zaragoza, Miguel Servet 177, 50013 Zaragoza, Spain
| | - María Eugenia Lebrero
- Clinical Immunology Laboratory, Veterinary Faculty, University of Zaragoza, Miguel Servet 177, 50013 Zaragoza, Spain; Animal Pathology Department, Veterinary Faculty, University of Zaragoza, Miguel Servet 177, 50013 Zaragoza, Spain
| | | | - Andrés Yzuel
- Clinical Immunology Laboratory, Veterinary Faculty, University of Zaragoza, Miguel Servet 177, 50013 Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Diana Marteles
- Clinical Immunology Laboratory, Veterinary Faculty, University of Zaragoza, Miguel Servet 177, 50013 Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Antonio Fernández
- Clinical Immunology Laboratory, Veterinary Faculty, University of Zaragoza, Miguel Servet 177, 50013 Zaragoza, Spain; Animal Pathology Department, Veterinary Faculty, University of Zaragoza, Miguel Servet 177, 50013 Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Alex Gómez
- Animal Pathology Department, Veterinary Faculty, University of Zaragoza, Miguel Servet 177, 50013 Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Sergio Villanueva-Saz
- Clinical Immunology Laboratory, Veterinary Faculty, University of Zaragoza, Miguel Servet 177, 50013 Zaragoza, Spain; Animal Pathology Department, Veterinary Faculty, University of Zaragoza, Miguel Servet 177, 50013 Zaragoza, Spain.
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21
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Ivănescu L, Andronic BL, Grigore-Hristodorescu S, Martinescu GV, Mîndru R, Miron L. The immune response in canine and human leishmaniasis and how this influences the diagnosis- a review and assessment of recent research. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2023; 13:1326521. [PMID: 38149009 PMCID: PMC10749942 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2023.1326521] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2023] [Accepted: 11/22/2023] [Indexed: 12/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Leishmaniasis is a widespread but still underdiagnosed parasitic disease that affects both humans and animals. There are at least 20 pathogenic species of Leishmania, most of them being zoonotic. The diagnosis of leishmaniasis remains a major challenge, with an important role being played by the species of parasites involved, the genetic background, the immunocompetence of the host. This paper brings to the fore the sensitivity of the balance in canine and human leishmaniasis and addresses the importance of the host's immune response in establishing a correct diagnosis, especially in certain cases of asymptomatic leishmaniasis, or in the situation the host is immunosuppressed or acquired leishmaniasis through vertical transmission. The methods considered as a reference in the diagnosis of leishmaniasis no longer present certainty, the diagnosis being influenced mostly by the immune response of the host, which differs according to the presence of other associated diseases or even according to the breed in dogs. Consequently, the diagnosis and surveillance of leishmaniasis cases remains an open topic, requiring new diagnostic methods adapted to the immunological state of the host.
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Affiliation(s)
- Larisa Ivănescu
- Clinics Department, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Iasi University of Life Sciences, Iaşi, Romania
| | - Bianca Lavinia Andronic
- Clinics Department, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Iasi University of Life Sciences, Iaşi, Romania
| | | | | | - Raluca Mîndru
- Clinics Department, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Iasi University of Life Sciences, Iaşi, Romania
| | - Liviu Miron
- Clinics Department, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Iasi University of Life Sciences, Iaşi, Romania
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22
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Baxarias M, Solano-Gallego L. Effect of storage on the nitro blue tetrazolium reduction test in dog blood samples. Vet Clin Pathol 2023; 52:596-600. [PMID: 37528447 DOI: 10.1111/vcp.13258] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2022] [Revised: 02/21/2023] [Accepted: 04/04/2023] [Indexed: 08/03/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The nitro blue tetrazolium (NBT) reduction test (NBTT) has been used for measuring the metabolic activity of phagocytes of mammals. Activated neutrophils transform NBT into formazan in the cytoplasm. The NBTT can detect the activation of neutrophils in peripheral blood and is used to assess neutrophil function in dogs. However, the NBTT is not used frequently in the clinical setting, as samples should be processed after blood collection. OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of storage on NBTT in dog blood samples. MATERIALS AND METHODS Residual EDTA blood samples from 22 dogs were included of different ages, breeds, and sex. The buffy coat layer was separated from the blood and incubated with 0.1% NBT. The NBTT was performed at 0, 24, 48, and 72 h after the collection of blood. Blood samples were stored at 4°C until the tests were performed. Blood smears were evaluated by light microscopy, and the NBT reduction rate was reported, which represents the percentage of activated neutrophils. The NBT reduction rate was calculated after counting 300 neutrophils in each slide. RESULTS The means of NBTT in dog blood samples at 0, 24, 48, and 72 h were 8.3%, 8.5%, 8.7%, and 7.8%, respectively. No significant differences were observed between time points. CONCLUSIONS This study showed that the NBTT can be performed up to 72 h after the collection of canine blood if correctly refrigerated at 4°C. This finding supports the performance of the NBTT in the clinical setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Baxarias
- Departament de Medicina i Cirurgia Animals, Facultat de Veterinària, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra, Spain
| | - Laia Solano-Gallego
- Departament de Medicina i Cirurgia Animals, Facultat de Veterinària, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra, Spain
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23
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Montaner-Angoiti E, Llobat L. Is leishmaniasis the new emerging zoonosis in the world? Vet Res Commun 2023; 47:1777-1799. [PMID: 37438495 DOI: 10.1007/s11259-023-10171-5] [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: 05/20/2023] [Accepted: 07/05/2023] [Indexed: 07/14/2023]
Abstract
Leishmania is a genus of parasitic protozoa that causes a disease called leishmaniasis. Leishmaniasis is transmitted to humans through the bites of infected female sandflies. There are several different species of Leishmania that can cause various forms of the disease, and the symptoms can range from mild to severe, depending on species of Leishmania involved and the immune response of the host. Leishmania parasites have a variety of reservoirs, including humans, domestic animals, horses, rodents, wild animals, birds, and reptiles. Leishmaniasis is endemic of 90 countries, mainly in South American, East and West Africa, Mediterranean region, Indian subcontinent, and Central Asia. In recent years, cases have been detected in other countries, and it is already an infection present throughout the world. The increase in temperatures due to climate change makes it possible for sandflies to appear in countries with traditionally colder regions, and the easy movement of people and animals today, facilitate the appearance of Leishmania species in new countries. These data mean that leishmaniasis will probably become an emerging zoonosis and a public health problem in the coming years, which we must consider controlling it from a One Health point of view. This review summarizes the prevalence of Leishmania spp. around the world and the current knowledge regarding the animals that could be reservoirs of the parasite.
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Affiliation(s)
- Esperanza Montaner-Angoiti
- Molecular Mechanisms of Zoonotic Disease (MMOPS) Group, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad Cardenal Herrera-CEU, CEU Universities Valencia, Valencia, Spain
| | - Lola Llobat
- Molecular Mechanisms of Zoonotic Disease (MMOPS) Group, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad Cardenal Herrera-CEU, CEU Universities Valencia, Valencia, Spain.
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24
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Villanueva-Saz S, Martínez M, Nijhof AM, Gerst B, Gentil M, Müller E, Fernández A, González A, Yusuf MSM, Greco G, Verde M, Sgroi G, Lacasta D, Marteles D, Trotta M, Schäfer I. Molecular survey on vector-borne pathogens in clinically healthy stray cats in Zaragoza (Spain). Parasit Vectors 2023; 16:428. [PMID: 37986028 PMCID: PMC10662132 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-023-06046-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2023] [Accepted: 11/06/2023] [Indexed: 11/22/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In Europe, feline vector-borne infections are gaining importance because of the changing climate, expanding habitats of potential vectors and expanding pathogen reservoirs. The main objective of this study was to assess the prevalence of vector-borne pathogens (VBPs) in stray cats in Zaragoza, Spain, and to investigate potential risk factors for infection, including feline leukaemia virus (FeLV) and feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV). METHODS Blood samples from stray cats presented to the veterinary faculty in Zaragoza between February 2020 and 2022 were tested by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) for the presence of Anaplasma phagocytophilum, Anaplasma platys, Bartonella henselae, Ehrlichia canis, Rickettsia spp., haemotropic Mycoplasma spp., Hepatozoon spp., Leishmania infantum, piroplasms and microfilariae at the LABOKLIN laboratory. The cats were also tested for FeLV and FIV by PCR. RESULTS Nearly half of the cats (158/332, 47.6%) were positive for at least one VBP. Hepatozoon spp. were detected in 25.6%, haemotropic Mycoplasma spp. in 22.9%, B. henselae in 9.3% and L. infantum in 2.1% of the cats. Male sex had a statistically significant association with test results for haemotropic Mycoplasma spp. (odds ratio 1.38 [1.21;1.57]); regionality with Hepatozoon spp., B. henseale and FIV; and seasonality with Hepatozoon spp., haemotropic Mycoplasma spp., L. infantum and FeLV (P ≤ 0.05 each). A strong positive correlation was reported for the amount of rainfall and the number of cats that tested positive for Hepatozoon spp. (ρ = 753, P = 0.05). None of the cats tested positive for A. phagocytophilum, A. platys, E. canis, Rickettsia spp., piroplasms, or microfilariae. Co-infections with multiple VBPs were detected in 56 out of 332 cats (16.9%). Thirty-one of the 332 cats included in the study (9.3%) tested positive for FeLV (6.9%) and for FIV (3.6%). In 20/31 cats (64.5%) that tested positive for FeLV/FIV, coinfections with VBP were detected (P = 0.048, OR 2.15 [0.99; 4.64]). CONCLUSIONS VBPs were frequently detected in stray cats in Zaragoza. In particular, regionality and seasonality had a statistically significant association with PCR results for most VBPs included in the study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sergio Villanueva-Saz
- Immunology Laboratory, Zaragoza Veterinary Faculty, Zaragoza University, Miguel Servet 177, 50013, Zaragoza, Spain.
- Animal Pathology Department, Zaragoza Veterinary Faculty, Zaragoza University, Miguel Servet 177, 50013, Zaragoza, Spain.
- Instituto Agroalimentario de Aragón‑IA2 (Universidad de Saragossa‑CITA), Zaragoza University, Miguel Servet 177, 50013, Zaragoza, Spain.
| | - Marivi Martínez
- Immunology Laboratory, Zaragoza Veterinary Faculty, Zaragoza University, Miguel Servet 177, 50013, Zaragoza, Spain
- Animal Pathology Department, Zaragoza Veterinary Faculty, Zaragoza University, Miguel Servet 177, 50013, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Ard M Nijhof
- Institute for Parasitology and Tropical Veterinary Medicine, Freie Universität Berlin, Robert-Von-Ostertag-Straße 7, 14163, Berlin, Germany
- Veterinary Centre for Resistance Research, Freie Universität Berlin, 14163, Berlin, Germany
| | - Bastian Gerst
- Institute for Parasitology and Tropical Veterinary Medicine, Freie Universität Berlin, Robert-Von-Ostertag-Straße 7, 14163, Berlin, Germany
- Veterinary Centre for Resistance Research, Freie Universität Berlin, 14163, Berlin, Germany
| | - Michaela Gentil
- LABOKLIN GmbH and Co. KG, Steubenstraße 4, 97688, Bad Kissingen, Germany
| | - Elisabeth Müller
- LABOKLIN GmbH and Co. KG, Steubenstraße 4, 97688, Bad Kissingen, Germany
| | - Antonio Fernández
- Immunology Laboratory, Zaragoza Veterinary Faculty, Zaragoza University, Miguel Servet 177, 50013, Zaragoza, Spain
- Animal Pathology Department, Zaragoza Veterinary Faculty, Zaragoza University, Miguel Servet 177, 50013, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Ana González
- Hospital Veterinario Universidad de Zaragoza, Zaragoza University, Miguel Servet 177, 50013, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Mohamed Sh Mohamud Yusuf
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Bari "Aldo Moro", 70010, Valenzano, Metropolitan City of Bari, Italy
| | - Grazia Greco
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Bari "Aldo Moro", 70010, Valenzano, Metropolitan City of Bari, Italy
| | - Maite Verde
- Immunology Laboratory, Zaragoza Veterinary Faculty, Zaragoza University, Miguel Servet 177, 50013, Zaragoza, Spain
- Animal Pathology Department, Zaragoza Veterinary Faculty, Zaragoza University, Miguel Servet 177, 50013, Zaragoza, Spain
- Instituto Agroalimentario de Aragón‑IA2 (Universidad de Saragossa‑CITA), Zaragoza University, Miguel Servet 177, 50013, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Giovanni Sgroi
- Department of Animal Health, Experimental Zooprophylatic Institute of Southern Italy, Portici, 80055, Naples, Italy
| | - Delia Lacasta
- Immunology Laboratory, Zaragoza Veterinary Faculty, Zaragoza University, Miguel Servet 177, 50013, Zaragoza, Spain
- Animal Pathology Department, Zaragoza Veterinary Faculty, Zaragoza University, Miguel Servet 177, 50013, Zaragoza, Spain
- Instituto Agroalimentario de Aragón‑IA2 (Universidad de Saragossa‑CITA), Zaragoza University, Miguel Servet 177, 50013, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Diana Marteles
- Immunology Laboratory, Zaragoza Veterinary Faculty, Zaragoza University, Miguel Servet 177, 50013, Zaragoza, Spain
- Animal Pathology Department, Zaragoza Veterinary Faculty, Zaragoza University, Miguel Servet 177, 50013, Zaragoza, Spain
- Instituto Agroalimentario de Aragón‑IA2 (Universidad de Saragossa‑CITA), Zaragoza University, Miguel Servet 177, 50013, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Michele Trotta
- Immunology Laboratory, Zaragoza Veterinary Faculty, Zaragoza University, Miguel Servet 177, 50013, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Ingo Schäfer
- LABOKLIN GmbH and Co. KG, Steubenstraße 4, 97688, Bad Kissingen, Germany.
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25
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Pereira DCA, Teixeira-Neto RG, Lopes VV, Pena HP, Paz GF, Custodio CHX, Belo VS, da Fonseca Júnior AA, da Silva ES. Development of quantitative PCR and digital PCR for the quantification of Leishmania infantum in dogs. Mol Cell Biochem 2023; 478:2445-2450. [PMID: 36790551 DOI: 10.1007/s11010-023-04672-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2022] [Accepted: 02/02/2023] [Indexed: 02/16/2023]
Abstract
Leishmaniasis is a zoonotic disease with worldwide distribution. In the Americas, the causative agent of the visceral form is the protozoa Leishmania (Leishmania) infantum. Transmission to the host or vertebrate reservoir occurs through the bite of infected arthropod females like Lutzomyia longipalpis. The epidemiological connection between the infection in dogs and humans generate constant studies about the relationship between the parasite and the canine host, including the development of methods and tests for the detection and quantification ofLeishmania (L.) infantum. Both conventional PCR (cPCR) and quantitative PCR (qPCR) can be used in the diagnosis of the parasite. Dropet Digital PCR (ddPCR) is another useful tool. Knowing the parasite load and its relationship with the clinical signs of naturally infected dogs is useful in research development and for establishing treatments that reduce the transmission of the disease. In this study, thirty-nine clinical samples of spleen from dogs naturaly infected by L. infantum were collected after necropsy. Two molecular tools were used to quantify the parasite load (qPCR and ddPCR) and there was 100% agreement in the results of the them. The tools developed in this work are important for the detection of L. infantum in dogs and humans. Droplet Digital PCR does not require a standard curve and is easy to standardize. In such manner, this new tool can generate more in-depth information in the broad debate about parasitic loads and the pathogenesis of leishmaniasis.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Valeriana Valadares Lopes
- Universidade Federal de São João Del Rei (UFSJ), Campus Centro-Oeste Dona Lindu, Divinópolis, Brazil
| | - Héber Paulino Pena
- Universidade Federal de São João Del Rei (UFSJ), Campus Centro-Oeste Dona Lindu, Divinópolis, Brazil
| | | | | | - Vinícius Silva Belo
- Universidade Federal de São João Del Rei (UFSJ), Campus Centro-Oeste Dona Lindu, Divinópolis, Brazil
| | | | - Eduardo Sérgio da Silva
- Universidade Federal de São João Del Rei (UFSJ), Campus Centro-Oeste Dona Lindu, Divinópolis, Brazil.
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26
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Rocha R, Conceição C, Gonçalves L, Maia C. Knowledge, perceptions and practices of health students and professionals regarding leishmaniasis in Portugal: a cross-sectional study. Parasit Vectors 2023; 16:381. [PMID: 37880779 PMCID: PMC10598964 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-023-05982-z] [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: 07/21/2023] [Accepted: 09/24/2023] [Indexed: 10/27/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Control of leishmaniasis in the Mediterranean Basin relies on the active contributions from researchers in the fields of animal, human and environmental health. The application of knowledge, perceptions and practices (KPP) questionnaires to health students and professionals in Europe could be fundamental to identify and explore gaps in KPP, highlighting the diversity of conceptions related to this disease between students and professionals active in (One) Health. The objective of this study was to characterize and compare the current knowledge, perceptions and practices regarding leishmaniasis among subgroups of students and health professionals in Portugal through the application of an online questionnaire. METHODS A cross-sectional study targeted the population of health students and professionals in Portugal, including students in medicine, veterinary medicine and environmental health, physicians, veterinarians and environmental health technicians. Potential participants were approached by email via universities and professional societies and organizations and provided with the link to access the online questionnaire. Answers to the self-administered sociodemographic and KPP questionnaire were collected between July and December 2022. Individual KPP scores were calculated by summing grades defined for each question. Logistic regression models were used to search for potential associations, and the results were expressed at estimated crude and adjusted odds ratios with 95% confidence intervals. RESULTS In total, 486 participants were included in this study: 254 students and 232 professionals. Overall, 75% of the participants reported having heard of both human and animal leishmaniasis, and > 80% reported hearing about the disease during their course work (although this was significantly lower among those in the field of environmental health). Around 90% of participants identified the pathogenic agent as a parasite, and an arthropod bite was identified as the main route of transmission by > 95%. Animal leishmaniasis was considered to be diagnosed in Portugal by 87% of participants and human leishmaniasis by only 69%. The main barriers pointed out by professionals to the control of leishmaniasis were: lack of knowledge in the general population, failures in the early diagnosis and treatment of diseased animals, absence/inefficacy of vector control programs and lack of knowledge in human health professionals. Median knowledge and perception scores were higher among professionals in the animal health field and higher in professionals than in students. Median practice scores were not significantly different between groups and subgroups. The multivariate analysis revealed that a longer period of study (for students) and having seen cases of leishmaniasis (for physicians) were associated with above-mentioned median knowledge score. CONCLUSIONS Most health students and professionals are knowledgeable about the cause and transmission route of leishmaniasis. However, recognition of the disease as autochthonous in humans is less common, highlighting the importance of promoting an approach to this infection through a One-Health lens. A national structured plan to control leishmaniasis could overcome some of the barriers pointed out by professionals, namely by implementing systematic phlebotomine surveillance and integrated reporting of animal and human cases of disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rafael Rocha
- Instituto de Higiene e Medicina Tropical (IHMT), Universidade Nova de Lisboa (UNL), Lisbon, Portugal
- Global Health and Tropical Medicine (GHTM), Associate Laboratory in Translation and Innovation Towards Global Health (LA-REAL), Institute of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine (IHMT), NOVA University Lisbon (UNL), Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Cláudia Conceição
- Instituto de Higiene e Medicina Tropical (IHMT), Universidade Nova de Lisboa (UNL), Lisbon, Portugal
- Global Health and Tropical Medicine (GHTM), Associate Laboratory in Translation and Innovation Towards Global Health (LA-REAL), Institute of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine (IHMT), NOVA University Lisbon (UNL), Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Luzia Gonçalves
- Instituto de Higiene e Medicina Tropical (IHMT), Universidade Nova de Lisboa (UNL), Lisbon, Portugal
- Global Health and Tropical Medicine (GHTM), Associate Laboratory in Translation and Innovation Towards Global Health (LA-REAL), Institute of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine (IHMT), NOVA University Lisbon (UNL), Lisbon, Portugal
- Centro de Estatística e Aplicações da Universidade de Lisboa (UL), Lisbon, Portugal
- Z-Stat4life, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Carla Maia
- Instituto de Higiene e Medicina Tropical (IHMT), Universidade Nova de Lisboa (UNL), Lisbon, Portugal.
- Global Health and Tropical Medicine (GHTM), Associate Laboratory in Translation and Innovation Towards Global Health (LA-REAL), Institute of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine (IHMT), NOVA University Lisbon (UNL), Lisbon, Portugal.
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Huang X, Shen QK, Guo HY, Li X, Quan ZS. Pharmacological overview of hederagenin and its derivatives. RSC Med Chem 2023; 14:1858-1884. [PMID: 37859723 PMCID: PMC10583830 DOI: 10.1039/d3md00296a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2023] [Accepted: 08/16/2023] [Indexed: 10/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Hederagenin is a pentacyclic triterpenoid isolated from plants and widely distributed in a variety of medicinal plants. By integrating and analyzing external related literature reports, the latest research progress on the pharmacological effects and structural modification of hederagenin was reviewed. Hederagenin has a wide range of pharmacological activities, including antitumor, anti-inflammatory, antidepressant, anti-neurodegenerative, antihyperlipidemic, antidiabetic, anti-leishmaniasis, and antiviral activities. Among them, it shows high potential in the field of anti-tumor treatment. This paper also reviews the structural modifications of hederagenin, including carboxyl group modifications and two hydroxyl group modifications. Future research on hederagenin will focus on prolonging its half-life, improving its bioavailability and structural modification to enhance its pharmacological activity, accelerating the preclinical research stage of hederagenin for it to enter the clinical research stage as soon as possible.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xing Huang
- Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines of the Changbai Mountain, Affiliated Ministry of Education, College of Pharmacy, Yanbian University Yanji Jilin 133002 China
| | - Qing-Kun Shen
- Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines of the Changbai Mountain, Affiliated Ministry of Education, College of Pharmacy, Yanbian University Yanji Jilin 133002 China
| | - Hong-Yan Guo
- Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines of the Changbai Mountain, Affiliated Ministry of Education, College of Pharmacy, Yanbian University Yanji Jilin 133002 China
| | - Xiaoting Li
- Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines of the Changbai Mountain, Affiliated Ministry of Education, College of Pharmacy, Yanbian University Yanji Jilin 133002 China
| | - Zhe-Shan Quan
- Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines of the Changbai Mountain, Affiliated Ministry of Education, College of Pharmacy, Yanbian University Yanji Jilin 133002 China
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Rocha R, Gonçalves L, Conceição C, Andrade P, Cristóvão JM, Condeço J, Delgado B, Caeiro C, Kuzmenko T, Vasconcelos E, Escoval MA, Rey C, Guz M, Norte C, Aldeia C, Cruz D, Maia C. Prevalence of asymptomatic Leishmania infection and knowledge, perceptions, and practices in blood donors in mainland Portugal. Parasit Vectors 2023; 16:357. [PMID: 37817278 PMCID: PMC10563231 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-023-05980-1] [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: 07/21/2023] [Accepted: 09/24/2023] [Indexed: 10/12/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Asymptomatic infection is the most common outcome of exposure to Leishmania parasites. In the Mediterranean region, where Leishmania infantum is endemic, studies on the prevalence of asymptomatic infection have often relied on serological testing in blood donors. In Spain, regional studies have shown seroprevalence in blood donors between 1 and 8%; in Portugal, values of 0 and 2% were suggested by two localized studies, in different populations. The purpose of this study was (i) to estimate the prevalence of asymptomatic Leishmania infection in blood donors in mainland Portugal, and (ii) to study the association between the detection of antibodies to Leishmania and sociodemographic factors, and also the knowledge, perceptions and practices (KPP) of the blood donors regarding leishmaniasis. METHODS A cross-sectional study targeted the population of people who donated blood in mainland Portugal. Participants, distributed proportionally by municipality and aged between 18 and 65 years, were selected randomly in 347 blood collection points between February and June 2022, and completed a sociodemographic and a KPP questionnaire. Detection of anti-Leishmania antibodies in serum was performed using an ELISA commercial kit. Individual KPP scores were calculated by adding grades defined for each question. RESULTS Globally, 201/3763 samples were positive. The estimated national true seroprevalence was 4.8% (95% CI 4.1-5.5%). The proportion of positive results was significantly different between NUTS (Nomenclature of Territorial Units for Statistics) regions. Models suggested that seropositivity was significantly higher in male sex, people older than 25 years, or residing in the Centro NUTS2 region, but not in dog owners nor people with lower KPP scores. Overall, 72.3% of participants had previously heard of leishmaniasis and, in multivariate analysis, a higher Knowledge score was associated with age 25-40 years, female sex, ownership of dogs, and higher education. CONCLUSIONS Global estimated true seroprevalence (4.8%) was similar to previous regional studies in blood donors in neighboring Spain. Higher seroprevalence values in the NUTS2 Centro region were consistent with incidence data from humans and seroprevalence studies in dogs. On the other hand, the low values in the Alentejo and the high values in the northern subregions may be the result of geographical shifts in parasite circulation due to climate change and should prompt localized and integrated, vector, canine, and human research, following a One Health approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rafael Rocha
- Instituto de Higiene E Medicina Tropical (IHMT), Universidade Nova de Lisboa (UNL), Lisbon, Portugal
- Global Health and Tropical Medicine (GHTM), Associate Laboratory in Translation and Innovation Towards Global Health, LA-REAL, IHMT, UNL, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Luzia Gonçalves
- Instituto de Higiene E Medicina Tropical (IHMT), Universidade Nova de Lisboa (UNL), Lisbon, Portugal
- Global Health and Tropical Medicine (GHTM), Associate Laboratory in Translation and Innovation Towards Global Health, LA-REAL, IHMT, UNL, Lisbon, Portugal
- Centro de Estatística E Aplicações da Universidade de Lisboa (UL), Lisbon, Portugal
- , Z-Stat4life, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Cláudia Conceição
- Instituto de Higiene E Medicina Tropical (IHMT), Universidade Nova de Lisboa (UNL), Lisbon, Portugal
- Global Health and Tropical Medicine (GHTM), Associate Laboratory in Translation and Innovation Towards Global Health, LA-REAL, IHMT, UNL, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Patrícia Andrade
- Instituto de Higiene E Medicina Tropical (IHMT), Universidade Nova de Lisboa (UNL), Lisbon, Portugal
| | - José Manuel Cristóvão
- Instituto de Higiene E Medicina Tropical (IHMT), Universidade Nova de Lisboa (UNL), Lisbon, Portugal
- Global Health and Tropical Medicine (GHTM), Associate Laboratory in Translation and Innovation Towards Global Health, LA-REAL, IHMT, UNL, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Jorge Condeço
- Instituto Português Do Sangue E da Transplantação, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Beatriz Delgado
- Instituto Português Do Sangue E da Transplantação, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Cristina Caeiro
- Instituto Português Do Sangue E da Transplantação, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Tetyana Kuzmenko
- Instituto Português Do Sangue E da Transplantação, Lisbon, Portugal
| | | | | | - Carmen Rey
- Centro Hospitalar Universitário Do Algarve, Portimão, Portugal
| | - Madalina Guz
- Hospital do Espírito Santo de Évora, Évora, Portugal
| | - Cláudia Norte
- Unidade Local de Saúde Do Baixo Alentejo, Beja, Portugal
| | - Carlos Aldeia
- Unidade Local de Saúde Do Litoral Alentejano, Santiago Do Cacém, Portugal
| | - Diego Cruz
- Unidade Local de Saúde Do Norte Alentejano, Elvas, Portugal
| | - Carla Maia
- Instituto de Higiene E Medicina Tropical (IHMT), Universidade Nova de Lisboa (UNL), Lisbon, Portugal.
- Global Health and Tropical Medicine (GHTM), Associate Laboratory in Translation and Innovation Towards Global Health, LA-REAL, IHMT, UNL, Lisbon, Portugal.
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Iatta R, Carbonara M, Morea A, Trerotoli P, Benelli G, Nachum-Biala Y, Mendoza-Roldan JA, Cavalera MA, Baneth G, Bandi C, Zatelli A, Otranto D. Assessment of the diagnostic performance of serological tests in areas where Leishmania infantum and Leishmania tarentolae occur in sympatry. Parasit Vectors 2023; 16:352. [PMID: 37807047 PMCID: PMC10561492 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-023-05981-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2023] [Accepted: 09/24/2023] [Indexed: 10/10/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Visceral leishmaniosis caused by infection with the zoonotic protozoan Leishmania infantum is a life-threatening disease affecting dogs and humans. The sympatric occurrence of L. infantum and Leishmania tarentolae in an area of southern Italy endemic for canine leishmaniosis, where dogs are also exposed to the latter species, suggests the persistence of herpetophilic L. tarentolae in a non-permissive host, therefore raising questions about the performance of serological diagnostic tests routinely employed. METHODS The diagnostic performance of serological tests such as the immunofluorescence antibody test (IFAT), two commercial immunoenzymatic assays (i.e. NovaTec VetLine Leishmania ELISA® and rK39 ICT®) and an in-house enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was evaluated in healthy dogs seropositive to L. infantum, whereas the only IFAT available was used to detect antibodies to L. tarentolae. RESULTS With the IFAT, out of a total of 104 dogs tested, 15 were seronegative for L. infantum of which three were L. tarentolae seropositive' and 89 were L. infantum seropositive. Of the latter 89 dogs, representing the highest proportion of seropositive animals (85.6%) detected by IFAT' 66 were also seropositive for L. tarentolae. Cohen's kappa (κ) agreement coefficient between the IFAT results and those of all the other tests was very low, and the IFAT results were significantly different from those of all the other serological tests as calculated by Cochran's Q-test. Analysis using the Bayesian latent class (Bayes-LCA) showed that the in-house ELISA and IFAT contributed the most towards identifying infected and non-infected dogs, respectively. The IFAT test showed low positive predictive value (59.5%), but high negative predictive value (100%). CONCLUSIONS These results demonstrate that the IFAT for L. infantum, although highly sensitive, may not be considered a useful diagnostic test due to its low specificity. Therefore, an accurate serological tool with high specificity is mandatory for avoiding cross-reaction in epidemiological contexts where the two species of Leishmania occur in sympatry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberta Iatta
- Interdisciplinary Department of Medicine, University of Bari, Bari, Italy
| | - Mariaelisa Carbonara
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Valenzano, Italy
| | - Anna Morea
- Interdisciplinary Department of Medicine, University of Bari, Bari, Italy
| | - Paolo Trerotoli
- Interdisciplinary Department of Medicine, University of Bari, Bari, Italy
| | - Giovanni Benelli
- Department of Agriculture, Food and Environment, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Yaarit Nachum-Biala
- School of Veterinary Medicine, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Rehovot, Israel
| | | | | | - Gad Baneth
- School of Veterinary Medicine, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Claudio Bandi
- Department of Biosciences, Pediatric CRC "Romeo Ed Enrica Invernizzi"-University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Andrea Zatelli
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Valenzano, Italy
| | - Domenico Otranto
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Valenzano, Italy.
- Department of Pathobiology, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Bu-Ali Sina University, Hamedan, Iran.
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Baxarias M, Donato G, Mateu C, Salichs M, Homedes J, Miró G, Pennisi MG, Solano-Gallego L. A blinded, randomized and controlled multicenter clinical trial to assess the efficacy and safety of Leisguard ® as an immunotherapeutic treatment for healthy Leishmania infantum-seropositive dogs. Parasit Vectors 2023; 16:344. [PMID: 37794502 PMCID: PMC10552330 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-023-05903-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2023] [Accepted: 07/27/2023] [Indexed: 10/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Domperidone (Leisguard®) is an immunomodulatory drug used as a preventive measure in healthy dogs. However, no studies have been published in healthy Leishmania infantum-seropositive dogs. The aim of this study was to evaluate the clinical efficacy and safety of domperidone as immunotherapy in Leishmania-seropositive healthy dogs. METHODS Sixty-seven dogs were treated with domperidone at 0.5 mg/kg and 44 dogs received placebo, once daily for 4 consecutive weeks. Monthly treatments were repeated every 4 months until the end of the 1-year follow-up period. Veterinary examinations were performed on days 0, 30, 120, 150, 240, 270 and 360. Samples of blood and urine were collected on days 0, 120, 240 and 360 for routine laboratory tests and quantitative in-house ELISA for the detection of L. infantum-specific antibodies. Furthermore, Leishmania real-time PCR and IFN-γ ELISA were performed at day 0 and the end of the study. Dogs that developed disease were withdrawn from the study and classified as sick dogs. Adverse drug reactions were reported. RESULTS Thirty dogs developed disease during the follow-up period: 13/67 (19.4%) in the group treated with domperidone and 17/44 (38.6%) in the placebo-treated group (P = 0.03). Low-seropositive dogs treated with domperidone (4/40, 9.1%) were significantly less likely to develop disease compared to low-seropositive dogs treated with placebo (7/24, 29.2%; P = 0.04), while no differences were found between domperidone (9/23, 39.1%) and placebo (10/20, 50%) in medium- to high-seropositive dogs. At the end of the study, a higher proportion of Leishmania PCR-positive dogs was observed in the placebo-treated group (16/33, 48.5%) compared to the domperidone group (13/51, 25.5%; P = 0.04). Furthermore, low-seropositive dogs treated with domperidone with an increase of IFN-γ concentration presented a higher increase than those treated with placebo at the end of the study. Four dogs treated with domperidone presented self-limiting diarrhea. CONCLUSIONS Healthy dogs with low L. infantum antibody levels treated with domperidone were less likely to develop disease compared to placebo-treated dogs. Furthermore, domperidone presented a good safety profile.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Baxarias
- Departament de Medicina i Cirurgia Animals, Facultat de Veterinària, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra, Spain
| | - Giulia Donato
- Dipartimento di Scienze Veterinarie, Università di Messina - Polo Universitario Annunziata, Messina, Italy
| | | | | | | | - Guadalupe Miró
- Departamento de Sanidad Animal, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Maria Grazia Pennisi
- Dipartimento di Scienze Veterinarie, Università di Messina - Polo Universitario Annunziata, Messina, Italy
| | - Laia Solano-Gallego
- Departament de Medicina i Cirurgia Animals, Facultat de Veterinària, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra, Spain.
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Molina CC, Dias MJ, Domingues TD, Englar RE, Leal RO. Clinical findings and prognostic factors for mortality in hospitalized dogs with leishmaniosis: aretrospective study. Comp Immunol Microbiol Infect Dis 2023; 101:102041. [PMID: 37634471 DOI: 10.1016/j.cimid.2023.102041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2023] [Revised: 08/15/2023] [Accepted: 08/22/2023] [Indexed: 08/29/2023]
Abstract
This retrospective study evaluated factors responsible for mortality of dogs hospitalized for Canine Leishmaniosis. Medical records of 31 dogs with leishmaniosis from a Portuguese Veterinary Teaching Hospital were examined between August 2018 and January 2022. Females (n = 18) and pure breed dogs (n = 27) were overrepresented, with higher frequency of Labrador Retriever (n = 4). Median age was 7 years (interquartile range=7). Most had historical findings of lethargy (n = 26) and the commonest clinicopathological abnormality was hypoalbuminemia (n = 26). Eleven dogs were classified as LeishVet stage II, 10 stage III and 10 stage IV. Fourteen dogs (45.2%) died or were euthanized, with azotemia, leukocytosis, stage IV, absence of diagnosis before hospitalization and lack of leishmaniosis specific treatment during hospitalization contributing to mortality. Absence of hypoalbuminemia and stages II/III increased survival. Mean hospitalization length prior to discharge was 5.41days ( ± 1.84) and diarrhea prolonged hospital stay.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlota Carvalho Molina
- Hospital Escolar Veterinário, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Lisbon, Lisbon, Portugal.
| | - Maria Joana Dias
- Hospital Escolar Veterinário, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Lisbon, Lisbon, Portugal; Centre for Interdisciplinary Research in Animal Health (CIISA) , Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Lisbon, Lisbon, Portugal; Associate Laboratory for Animal and Veterinary Sciences (AL4AnimalS), Lisbon, Portugal.
| | | | - Ryane E Englar
- College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Arizona, Oro Valley, USA.
| | - Rodolfo Oliveira Leal
- Hospital Escolar Veterinário, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Lisbon, Lisbon, Portugal; Centre for Interdisciplinary Research in Animal Health (CIISA) , Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Lisbon, Lisbon, Portugal; Associate Laboratory for Animal and Veterinary Sciences (AL4AnimalS), Lisbon, Portugal.
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Kaempfle M, Bergmann M, Koelle P, Hartmann K. High Performance Liquid Chromatography Analysis and Description of Purine Content of Diets Suitable for Dogs with Leishmania Infection during Allopurinol Treatment-A Pilot Trial. Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:3060. [PMID: 37835666 PMCID: PMC10571740 DOI: 10.3390/ani13193060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2023] [Revised: 09/13/2023] [Accepted: 09/24/2023] [Indexed: 10/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Reducing the alimentary purine intake contributes to the prevention of purine (especially xanthine) urolith formation, a common adverse effect of allopurinol treatment in dogs with Leishmania infections. Analyses of the purine content are not required in order to advertise a diet as low in purine. Due to different analytical methods, data provided on purine content are barely comparable. The aim of this study was to investigate the total purine content of 12 different dog diets. For this, the purine bases adenine, guanine, xanthine, and hypoxanthine were determined by standardised high performance liquid chromatography in commercially available urinary diets (n = 4), kidney diets (n = 2), low protein diets (n = 3), 1 vegan diet, 1 regular diet for healthy adult dogs, and 1 homemade low purine diet. Total purine amounts ranged between 10.2 and 90.9 mg/100 g of dry matter. The daily purine intake calculated for a 20 kg standard dog with the analysed diets ranged between 21.9 and 174.7 mg. The lowest daily purine intakes were achieved by 2 urinary urate diets, followed by the homemade diet. Differences in the purine content of commercially available diets need to be considered. Awareness has to be raised when selecting diets for dogs with Leishmania infections during allopurinol treatment in order to minimise the risk of urolith formation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melanie Kaempfle
- LMU Small Animal Clinic, Centre for Clinical Veterinary Medicine, LMU Munich, 80539 Munich, Germany; (M.B.); (P.K.); (K.H.)
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Pabon-Rodriguez FM, Brown GD, Scorza BM, Petersen CA. Bayesian multivariate longitudinal model for immune responses to Leishmania: A tick-borne co-infection study. Stat Med 2023; 42:3860-3876. [PMID: 37350148 PMCID: PMC11123579 DOI: 10.1002/sim.9837] [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: 06/20/2022] [Revised: 05/24/2023] [Accepted: 06/11/2023] [Indexed: 06/24/2023]
Abstract
While many Bayesian state-space models for infectious disease processes focus on population infection dynamics (eg, compartmental models), in this work we examine the evolution of infection processes and the complexities of the immune responses within the host using these techniques. We present a joint Bayesian state-space model to better understand how the immune system contributes to the control of Leishmania infantum infections over the disease course. We use longitudinal molecular diagnostic and clinical data of a cohort of dogs to describe population progression rates and present evidence for important drivers of clinical disease. Among these results, we find evidence for the importance of co-infection in disease progression. We also show that as dogs progress through the infection, parasite load is influenced by their age, ectoparasiticide treatment status, and serology. Furthermore, we present evidence that pathogen load information from an earlier point in time influences its future value and that the size of this effect varies depending on the clinical stage of the dog. In addition to characterizing the processes driving disease progression, we predict individual and aggregate patterns of Canine Leishmaniasis progression. Both our findings and the application to individual-level predictions are of direct clinical relevance, presenting possible opportunities for application in veterinary practice and motivating lines of additional investigation to better understand and predict disease progression. Finally, as an important zoonotic human pathogen, these results may support future efforts to prevent and treat human Leishmaniosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Felix M. Pabon-Rodriguez
- Department of Biostatistics, The University of Iowa College of Public Health, Iowa City, Iowa, USA
| | - Grant D. Brown
- Department of Biostatistics, The University of Iowa College of Public Health, Iowa City, Iowa, USA
| | - Breanna M. Scorza
- Department of Epidemiology, The University of Iowa College of Public Health, Iowa City, Iowa, USA
- Center for Emerging Infectious Diseases, The University of Iowa College of Public Health, Iowa City, Iowa, USA
| | - Christine A. Petersen
- Department of Epidemiology, The University of Iowa College of Public Health, Iowa City, Iowa, USA
- Center for Emerging Infectious Diseases, The University of Iowa College of Public Health, Iowa City, Iowa, USA
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Blasi-Brugué C, Martínez-Flórez I, Baxarias M, del Rio-Velasco J, Solano-Gallego L. Exploring the Relationship between Neutrophil Activation and Different States of Canine L. infantum Infection: Nitroblue Tetrazolium Test and IFN-γ. Vet Sci 2023; 10:572. [PMID: 37756094 PMCID: PMC10535614 DOI: 10.3390/vetsci10090572] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2023] [Revised: 09/04/2023] [Accepted: 09/11/2023] [Indexed: 09/28/2023] Open
Abstract
This study aimed to investigate the role of neutrophils in canine leishmaniosis by assessing neutrophil activation and its relationship with different states of L. infantum infection and antibody and IFN-γ production. Dogs were categorized into five groups: healthy-seronegative (n = 25), healthy-seropositive (n = 21), LeishVet-stage I (n = 25), Leishvet-stage II (n = 41), and LeishVet-stage III-IV (n = 16). Results of the nitroblue tetrazolium reduction test (NBT) showed significantly higher neutrophil activation in stage I (median:17.17, range: [7.33-31.50]%) compared to in healthy-seronegative (4.10 [1.20-18.00]%), healthy-seropositive (7.65 [3.98-21.74]%), stage II (6.50 [1.50-28.70]%), and stage III-IV (7.50 [3.00-16.75]%) groups (p < 0.0001). Healthy-seropositive dogs also displayed higher values than all groups except stage I. Stages II and III-IV did not show significant differences compared to healthy-seronegative. Regarding IFN-γ, stage I dogs had higher concentrations (median:127.90, range: [0-3998.00] pg/mL) than healthy-seronegative (0 [0-109.50] pg/mL) (p = 0.0002), stage II (9.00 [0-5086.00] pg/mL) (p = 0.045), and stage III-IV (3.50 [80.00-548.80] pg/mL) (p = 0.02) dogs. Stage II dogs showed increased IFN-γ compared to healthy-seronegative dogs (p = 0.015), while stage III-IV dogs had no significant differences compared to healthy-seronegative dogs (p = 0.12). Healthy-seropositive dogs had elevated IFN-γ concentrations compared to healthy-seronegative dogs (p = 0.001) and dogs in stage III-IV (p = 0.03). In conclusion, neutrophil activation was higher in dogs with mild disease and healthy-seropositive dogs, and a relationship between neutrophil activation and the production of IFN-γ was found.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Laia Solano-Gallego
- Departament de Medicina i Cirurgia Animals, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08193 Bellaterra, Spain; (C.B.-B.); (I.M.-F.); (M.B.); (J.d.R.-V.)
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Pessôa-Pereira D, Scorza BM, Cyndari KI, Beasley EA, Petersen CA. Modulation of Macrophage Redox and Apoptotic Processes to Leishmania infantum during Coinfection with the Tick-Borne Bacteria Borrelia burgdorferi. Pathogens 2023; 12:1128. [PMID: 37764937 PMCID: PMC10537792 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens12091128] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2023] [Revised: 09/01/2023] [Accepted: 09/02/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Canine leishmaniosis (CanL) is a zoonotic disease caused by protozoan Leishmania infantum. Dogs with CanL are often coinfected with tick-borne bacterial pathogens, including Borrelia burgdorferi in the United States. These coinfections have been causally associated with hastened disease progression and mortality. However, the specific cellular mechanisms of how coinfections affect microbicidal responses against L. infantum are unknown. We hypothesized that B. burgdorferi coinfection impacts host macrophage effector functions, prompting L. infantum intracellular survival. In vitro experiments demonstrated that exposure to B. burgdorferi spirochetes significantly increased L. infantum parasite burden and pro-inflammatory responses in DH82 canine macrophage cells. Induction of cell death and generation of mitochondrial ROS were significantly decreased in coinfected DH82 cells compared to uninfected and L. infantum-infected cells. Ex vivo stimulation of PBMCs from L. infantum-seronegative and -seropositive subclinical dogs with spirochetes and/or total Leishmania antigens promoted limited induction of IFNγ. Coexposure significantly induced expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines and chemokines associated with Th17 differentiation and neutrophilic and monocytic recruitment in PBMCs from L. infantum-seropositive dogs. Excessive pro-inflammatory responses have previously been shown to cause CanL pathology. This work supports effective tick prevention and risk management of coinfections as critical strategies to prevent and control L. infantum progression in dogs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danielle Pessôa-Pereira
- Department of Epidemiology, College of Public Health, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA; (D.P.-P.); (B.M.S.); (E.A.B.)
- Center for Emerging Infectious Diseases, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA;
| | - Breanna M. Scorza
- Department of Epidemiology, College of Public Health, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA; (D.P.-P.); (B.M.S.); (E.A.B.)
- Center for Emerging Infectious Diseases, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA;
| | - Karen I. Cyndari
- Center for Emerging Infectious Diseases, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA;
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA
| | - Erin A. Beasley
- Department of Epidemiology, College of Public Health, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA; (D.P.-P.); (B.M.S.); (E.A.B.)
- Center for Emerging Infectious Diseases, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA;
| | - Christine A. Petersen
- Department of Epidemiology, College of Public Health, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA; (D.P.-P.); (B.M.S.); (E.A.B.)
- Center for Emerging Infectious Diseases, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA;
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Baxarias M, Mateu C, Miró G, Solano‐Gallego L. Serological survey of Leishmania infantum in apparently healthy dogs in different areas of Spain. Vet Med Sci 2023; 9:1980-1988. [PMID: 37438910 PMCID: PMC10508519 DOI: 10.1002/vms3.1172] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2022] [Revised: 04/30/2023] [Accepted: 05/25/2023] [Indexed: 07/14/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Canine leishmaniosis caused by Leishmania infantum is an endemic disease in Spain. The dog is considered the main reservoir, and the detection of specific serum antibodies against L. infantum antigen is the most used technique for diagnosing this infection. The LEISCAN LEISHMANIA ELISA test is a commercialized enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay for the detection and measurement of canine anti-Leishmania serum antibodies. OBJECTIVES The aim of this study was to assess seroprevalence results of apparently healthy dogs in different areas of Spain using LEISCAN. METHODS Collection of sera from 5451 apparently healthy dogs was performed between 2020 and 2021 in different areas of Spain. Dogs were of adult age (≥12 months), were not previously diagnosed with clinical leishmaniosis or vaccinated against Leishmania and did not present clinical signs compatible with L. infantum infection. LEISCAN was performed following the manufacturer's protocol. RESULTS The overall seroprevalence was 5.5%. The highest seroprevalences were found in the Southeast of Spain: Comunidad Valenciana (14%) and Región de Murcia (14%), whereas the lowest seroprevalences were found in Northern Spain: Galicia (1%), Navarra (2%) and Castilla y León (2%) (p-value <0.001). CONCLUSIONS In conclusion, the seroprevalence for L. infantum in apparently healthy dogs in Spain varied from almost no infection to being over 10%.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Baxarias
- Departament de Medicina I Cirurgia AnimalsFacultat de VeterinàriaUniversitat Autònoma de BarcelonaBellaterraSpain
| | - Cristina Mateu
- Ecuphar Veterinaria SLUSant Cugat del VallèsBarcelonaSpain
| | - Guadalupe Miró
- Animal Health DepartmentVeterinary FacultyUniversidad Complutense de MadridMadridSpain
| | - Laia Solano‐Gallego
- Departament de Medicina I Cirurgia AnimalsFacultat de VeterinàriaUniversitat Autònoma de BarcelonaBellaterraSpain
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Zribi L, El Houda Ben-Fayala N, Aissi W, Ben-Abid M, Souissi O, Hamdi N, Boulehmi N, Ghrab J, Jemni A, Jamel A, Handous M, Bouratbine A, Oliva G, Aoun K. Canine Leishmania spp. infection in two distinct foci of visceral and cutaneous leishmaniasis in Tunisia. Vet Parasitol Reg Stud Reports 2023; 44:100906. [PMID: 37652625 DOI: 10.1016/j.vprsr.2023.100906] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2023] [Revised: 06/01/2023] [Accepted: 06/27/2023] [Indexed: 09/02/2023]
Abstract
Visceral leishmaniasis (VL) and zoonotic cutaneous leishmaniasis (ZCL) caused by Leishmania (L.) infantum and L. major, respectively, are endemic in Tunisia. The aim of the study was to assess canine Leishmania spp. infection prevalence as well as to identify the Leishmania species involved in two well-documented and geographically distinct VL and ZCL foci. One hundred seventy-six dogs were randomly recruited in the VL focus of Sbikha-Zaghouan (n = 100) and the ZCL focus of Echrarda-Nasrallah (n = 76). Physical examination and blood collection were systemically performed. Needle aspiration was done in case of lymph node (LN) enlargement. All sera were tested by ELISA. kDNA RT-PCR was performed on DNA extracts from (i) buffy coats of seropositive dogs and (ii) LN aspirates. Leishmania species identification was done by ITS1 PCR-sequencing. Thirty-three dogs (18.8%) were infected by Leishmania; 30 having anti-Leishmania antibodies and 3 were seronegative dogs with Leishmania DNA in LN aspirates. Prevalence of infection was significantly higher in VL foci than in ZCL foci (27% versus 7.9%, p = 0.002). Leishmania species was identified in 11 dogs and corresponded to L. infantum. Combination of serology and qPCR on LN aspirates seems to be the best option for canine leishmaniasis diagnosis. Infection is more frequent in VL foci and L. infantum is the only identified species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lilia Zribi
- Lab of Medical Parasitology, Biotechnology & Biomolecules LR 20-IPT-06, Institut Pasteur of Tunis, University of Tunis El Manar, 1002 Tunis, Tunisia.
| | - Nour El Houda Ben-Fayala
- Lab of Medical Parasitology, Biotechnology & Biomolecules LR 20-IPT-06, Institut Pasteur of Tunis, University of Tunis El Manar, 1002 Tunis, Tunisia; University Federico II, 80137 Naples, Italy
| | - Wafa Aissi
- National Center of Promotion of Organs Transplant, Faculty of Medicine of Tunis, University of Tunis El Manar, 1006 Bab Saadoun, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Meriem Ben-Abid
- Lab of Medical Parasitology, Biotechnology & Biomolecules LR 20-IPT-06, Institut Pasteur of Tunis, University of Tunis El Manar, 1002 Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Olfa Souissi
- Lab of Medical Parasitology, Biotechnology & Biomolecules LR 20-IPT-06, Institut Pasteur of Tunis, University of Tunis El Manar, 1002 Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Noureddine Hamdi
- Regional Commissariat for Agricultural Development-Ministry of Agriculture (CRDA), 3100 Kairouan, Tunisia
| | - Nada Boulehmi
- Lab of Medical Parasitology, Biotechnology & Biomolecules LR 20-IPT-06, Institut Pasteur of Tunis, University of Tunis El Manar, 1002 Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Jamila Ghrab
- Lab of Medical Parasitology, Biotechnology & Biomolecules LR 20-IPT-06, Institut Pasteur of Tunis, University of Tunis El Manar, 1002 Tunis, Tunisia
| | | | | | - Meriem Handous
- Lab of rabies, Institut Pasteur of Tunis, 1002 Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Aïda Bouratbine
- Lab of Medical Parasitology, Biotechnology & Biomolecules LR 20-IPT-06, Institut Pasteur of Tunis, University of Tunis El Manar, 1002 Tunis, Tunisia
| | | | - Karim Aoun
- Lab of Medical Parasitology, Biotechnology & Biomolecules LR 20-IPT-06, Institut Pasteur of Tunis, University of Tunis El Manar, 1002 Tunis, Tunisia
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Rodríguez-Cariño C, López Loarte J, Marí-Martorell D, Pantchev N, Hernandez Martinez L. Unusual transformation of Leishmania spp. amastigotes to promastigotes in a bone marrow sample from a Greyhound dog. Vet Clin Pathol 2023; 52:503-506. [PMID: 37408304 DOI: 10.1111/vcp.13252] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2022] [Revised: 02/14/2023] [Accepted: 02/23/2023] [Indexed: 07/07/2023]
Abstract
The objective of the study was to confirm the presence of different morphological forms of Leishmania infantum promastigotes on bone marrow aspirates from a Spanish Greyhound with canine leishmaniosis.
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Álvarez L, Marín-García PJ, Llobat L. Genetic haplotypes associated with immune response to Leishmania infantum infection in dogs. Vet Res Commun 2023; 47:1675-1685. [PMID: 37059873 DOI: 10.1007/s11259-023-10123-z] [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: 02/17/2023] [Accepted: 04/10/2023] [Indexed: 04/16/2023]
Abstract
Leishmaniasis is a zoonotic parasitic disease, and the main reservoir of the parasite is the dog, although recent years have seen an increase in other mammalian species. In the Mediterranean region, where it is an endemic disease, it is caused by the species Leishmania infantum. The Ibizan hound, an autochthonous breed of this region, appears to have a genetic resistance to parasitic infection, whereas other canine breeds, such as the Boxer, are susceptible to infection. These differences are related to the differentiated activation of the immune response, with the Ibizan hound activating the Th1 immune response, whereas the Boxer breed triggers the Th2 immune response. Cytokine levels and genomic haplotypes of several genes involved in the immune response were analysed in twenty-eight Ibizan hound (resistant canine breed model) and twenty-four Boxer (susceptible canine breed) without clinical signs in the Mediterranean region. Cytokine levels were analysed by ELISA commercial kits and haplotypes were studied using CanineHD DNA Analysis BeadChip including 165,480 mapped positions. The results show 126 haplotypes associated with differential immune response in dogs. Specifically, haplotypes in IL12RB1, IL6R, CIITA, THEMIS, NOXA1, HEY2, RAB38, SLC35D2, SLC28A3, RASEF and DAPK1 genes are associated with serum levels of IFN-γ, IL-2, IL-8, and IL-18. These results suggest that the resistance or susceptibility to Leishmania infantum infection could be a consequence of haplotypes in several genes related to immune response. Future studies are needed to elucidate the relationship of these haplotypes with immune response and gene expression regulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luis Álvarez
- Departamento Produccion Y Sanidad Animal, Salud Publica Y Ciencia Y Tecnologia de los Alimentos, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad Cardenal Herrera-CEU, CEU Universities, Valencia, Spain
| | - Pablo-Jesús Marín-García
- Departamento Produccion Y Sanidad Animal, Salud Publica Y Ciencia Y Tecnologia de los Alimentos, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad Cardenal Herrera-CEU, CEU Universities, Valencia, Spain
| | - Lola Llobat
- Departamento Produccion Y Sanidad Animal, Salud Publica Y Ciencia Y Tecnologia de los Alimentos, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad Cardenal Herrera-CEU, CEU Universities, Valencia, Spain.
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Mas A, Hurtado-Morillas C, Martínez-Rodrigo A, Orden JA, de la Fuente R, Domínguez-Bernal G, Carrión J. A Tailored Approach to Leishmaniases Vaccination: Comparative Evaluation of the Efficacy and Cross-Protection Capacity of DNA vs. Peptide-Based Vaccines in a Murine Model. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:12334. [PMID: 37569710 PMCID: PMC10418836 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241512334] [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: 07/06/2023] [Revised: 07/26/2023] [Accepted: 07/27/2023] [Indexed: 08/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Zoonotic leishmaniases are a worldwide public health problem for which the development of effective vaccines remains a challenge. A vaccine against leishmaniases must be safe and affordable and should induce cross-protection against the different disease-causing species. In this context, the DNA vaccine pHisAK70 has been demonstrated to induce, in a murine model, a resistant phenotype against L. major, L. infantum, and L. amazonensis. Moreover, a chimeric multiepitope peptide, HisDTC, has been obtained by in silico analysis from the histone proteins encoded in the DNA vaccine and has showed its ability to activate a potent CD4+ and CD8+ T-cell protective immune response in mice against L. infantum infection. In the present study, we evaluated the plasmid DNA vaccine pHisAK70 in comparison with the peptide HisDTC (with and without saponin) against L. major and L. infantum infection. Our preliminary results showed that both formulations were able to induce a potent cellular response leading to a decrease in parasite load against L. infantum. In addition, the DNA candidate was able to induce better lesion control in mice against L. major. These preliminary results indicate that both strategies are potentially effective candidates for leishmaniases control. Furthermore, it is important to carry out such comparative studies to elucidate which vaccine candidates are the most appropriate for further development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alicia Mas
- INMIVET Group, Animal Health Department, Veterinary School, Universidad Complutense Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - Clara Hurtado-Morillas
- INMIVET Group, Animal Health Department, Veterinary School, Universidad Complutense Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - Abel Martínez-Rodrigo
- INMIVET Group, Animal Science Department, Veterinary School, Universidad Complutense Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - José A. Orden
- INMIVET Group, Animal Health Department, Veterinary School, Universidad Complutense Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - Ricardo de la Fuente
- INMIVET Group, Animal Health Department, Veterinary School, Universidad Complutense Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - Gustavo Domínguez-Bernal
- INMIVET Group, Animal Health Department, Veterinary School, Universidad Complutense Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - Javier Carrión
- INMIVET Group, Animal Health Department, Veterinary School, Universidad Complutense Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain
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Afonso P, Coelho AC, Quintas H, Cardoso L. Leishmania Seroprevalence in Dogs: Comparing Shelter and Domestic Communities. Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:2352. [PMID: 37508129 PMCID: PMC10376450 DOI: 10.3390/ani13142352] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2023] [Revised: 07/11/2023] [Accepted: 07/17/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Canine leishmaniosis (CanL) is a chronic, systemic, and often severe disease. The main causative agent of CanL is a protozoan parasite, Leishmania infantum, with phlebotomine sand flies acting as vectors. In Europe and other continents, L. infantum is also responsible for leishmaniosis in other animals, such as cats, horses, and humans. In Portugal, animal and human leishmaniosis is endemic, and high prevalence levels of infections and disease have been reported in dogs. There is a prejudice against stray animals and also those housed in shelters, assuming they have higher levels of infection with vector-borne pathogens, including L. infantum, when compared to domestic animals. In northeastern Portugal, serum samples were obtained from March to May 2022 in three shelters (n = 179) and thirteen veterinary clinics (n = 164), resulting in 343 dogs being analyzed for antibodies to Leishmania spp. by the direct agglutination test (DAT). The overall seroprevalence was 9.9%, with 15.2% seroprevalence in domestic dogs and 5.0% in the shelter ones (p = 0.003). The fact that shelter dogs had a lower seroprevalence could be explained by more regular veterinary care provided in shelters regarding preventive measures, including insecticides with an antifeeding effect, in comparison with domestic dogs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paulo Afonso
- CECAV-Animal and Veterinary Research Centre, University of Trás-os-Montes and Alto Douro (UTAD), 5000-801 Vila Real, Portugal
- Associate Laboratory for Animal and Veterinary Science (AL4AnimalS), University of Trás-os-Montes and Alto Douro (UTAD), 5000-801 Vila Real, Portugal
- Agrarian School, Polytechnic Institute of Bragança (IPB), 5300-253 Bragança, Portugal
- Mountain Research Center (CIMO), Polytechnic Institute of Bragança (IPB), Campus de Santa Apolónia, 5300-253 Bragança, Portugal
| | - Ana Cláudia Coelho
- CECAV-Animal and Veterinary Research Centre, University of Trás-os-Montes and Alto Douro (UTAD), 5000-801 Vila Real, Portugal
- Associate Laboratory for Animal and Veterinary Science (AL4AnimalS), University of Trás-os-Montes and Alto Douro (UTAD), 5000-801 Vila Real, Portugal
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Trás-os-Montes and Alto Douro (UTAD), 5000-801 Vila Real, Portugal
| | - Hélder Quintas
- Agrarian School, Polytechnic Institute of Bragança (IPB), 5300-253 Bragança, Portugal
- Mountain Research Center (CIMO), Polytechnic Institute of Bragança (IPB), Campus de Santa Apolónia, 5300-253 Bragança, Portugal
| | - Luís Cardoso
- CECAV-Animal and Veterinary Research Centre, University of Trás-os-Montes and Alto Douro (UTAD), 5000-801 Vila Real, Portugal
- Associate Laboratory for Animal and Veterinary Science (AL4AnimalS), University of Trás-os-Montes and Alto Douro (UTAD), 5000-801 Vila Real, Portugal
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Trás-os-Montes and Alto Douro (UTAD), 5000-801 Vila Real, Portugal
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González MA, Barrera-Chacón R, Peña FJ, Belinchón-Lorenzo S, Robles NR, Pérez-Merino EM, Martín-Cano FE, Duque FJ. Proteomic research on new urinary biomarkers of renal disease in canine leishmaniosis: Survival and monitoring response to treatment. Res Vet Sci 2023; 161:180-190. [PMID: 37419051 DOI: 10.1016/j.rvsc.2023.06.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2023] [Revised: 06/12/2023] [Accepted: 06/18/2023] [Indexed: 07/09/2023]
Abstract
The objective of our study was to search for survival biomarkers (SB) and treatment response monitoring biomarkers (TRMB) in the urinary proteome of dogs with renal disease secondary to canine leishmaniosis (CanL), using UHPLC-MS/MS. The proteomic data are available via ProteomeXchange with identifier PXD042578. Initially, a group of 12 dogs was evaluated and divided into survivors (SG; n = 6) and nonsurvivors (NSG; n = 6). A total of 972 proteins were obtained from the evaluated samples. Then, bioinformatic analysis reduced them to 6 proteins like potential SB increased in the NSG, specifically, Haemoglobin subunit Alpha 1, Complement Factor I, Complement C5, Fibrinogen beta chain (fragment), Peptidase S1 domain-containing protein, and Fibrinogen gamma chain. Afterwards, SG was used to search for TRMB, studying their urine at 0, 30, and 90 days, and 9 proteins that decreased after treatment were obtained: Apolipoprotein E, Cathepsin B, Cystatin B, Cystatin-C-like, Lysozyme, Monocyte differentiation CD14, Pancreatitis-associated precursor protein, Profilin, and Protein FAM3C. Finally, enrichment analysis provided information about the biological mechanisms in which these proteins are involved. In conclusion, this study provides 15 new candidate urinary biomarkers and an improved understanding of the pathogenesis of kidney disease in CanL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mario A González
- Animal Medicine Department, University of Extremadura, 10003 Cáceres, Spain.
| | | | - Fernando J Peña
- Animal Medicine Department, University of Extremadura, 10003 Cáceres, Spain; Laboratory of Equine Reproduction and Equine Spermatology, Veterinary Teaching Hospital, University of Extremadura, 10003 Cáceres, Spain
| | - Silvia Belinchón-Lorenzo
- LeishmanCeres Laboratory (GLP Compliance Certified), Parasitology Unit, Veterinary Teaching Hospital, University of Extremadura, 10003 Cáceres, Spain
| | - Nicolás R Robles
- Nephrology Service, Badajoz University Hospital, University of Extremadura, 06080 Badajoz, Spain
| | - Eva M Pérez-Merino
- Animal Medicine Department, University of Extremadura, 10003 Cáceres, Spain
| | - Francisco E Martín-Cano
- Laboratory of Equine Reproduction and Equine Spermatology, Veterinary Teaching Hospital, University of Extremadura, 10003 Cáceres, Spain
| | - Francisco J Duque
- Animal Medicine Department, University of Extremadura, 10003 Cáceres, Spain
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Silva JEDS, Jussiani GG, Grano FG, Pelissari MCC, de Melo GD, Negrão Watanabe TT, de Lima VF, Machado GF. Increased CCL-5 (RANTES) Gene Expression in the Choroid Plexus of Dogs with Canine Leishmaniosis. Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:2060. [PMID: 37443858 DOI: 10.3390/ani13132060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2023] [Revised: 06/19/2023] [Accepted: 06/19/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Visceral canine leishmaniasis (CanL) can cause several clinical manifestations, including neurological lesions. Few reports have characterized the lesions observed in the central nervous system (CNS) during CanL; however, its pathogenesis remains unclear. The choroid plexus (CP) is a specialized structure responsible for the production and secretion of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and considered an interface between the peripheral immune system and CNS. It can allow the passage of inflammatory cells or pathogens and has the potential to act as a source of inflammatory mediators in several diseases. Thus, this study aimed to evaluate the role of CP as a possible route of inflammatory cells in the development of brain lesions in dogs with CanL, as well as its association with blood-CSF barrier (BCSFB) dysfunction. Samples were collected from 19 dogs that were naturally infected with CanL. We evaluated the histopathological lesions in the brain and investigated the gene expression of the cytokines. Capture enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was used to evaluate the presence of the same cytokines in the CSF. Biochemical analysis was performed to compare the presence of albumin in the serum and CSF. Indirect ELISA was performed to measure the presence of anti-Leishmania antibodies in the CSF, which would suggest the disruption of the BCSFB. Histopathological evaluation of the dogs' brains revealed mild-to-severe inflammatory infiltrates, mainly in the CP and meninges. We also detected the presence of anti-Leishmania antibodies and albumin in the CSF, as well as Leishmania DNA in the CP. The gene expression of CCL-5 was increased in the CP of infected dogs compared with that of controls, and there was a tendency for the increase in the gene expression of CXCL-10. Thus, our findings confirm the disfunction of the BCSFB during CanL and suggest that the chemokines CCL-5 and CXCL-10 can be responsible for the recruitment of inflammatory cells found in CP.
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Affiliation(s)
- José Eduardo Dos Santos Silva
- School of Veterinary Medicine, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária de Araçatuba (FMVA), São Paulo State University (UNESP), R. Clóvis Pestana, 793, Dona Amélia, Araçatuba 16050-680, SP, Brazil
| | - Giulia Gonçalves Jussiani
- School of Veterinary Medicine, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária de Araçatuba (FMVA), São Paulo State University (UNESP), R. Clóvis Pestana, 793, Dona Amélia, Araçatuba 16050-680, SP, Brazil
| | - Fernanda Grecco Grano
- School of Veterinary Medicine, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária de Araçatuba (FMVA), São Paulo State University (UNESP), R. Clóvis Pestana, 793, Dona Amélia, Araçatuba 16050-680, SP, Brazil
| | - Maria Cecília Clarindo Pelissari
- School of Veterinary Medicine, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária de Araçatuba (FMVA), São Paulo State University (UNESP), R. Clóvis Pestana, 793, Dona Amélia, Araçatuba 16050-680, SP, Brazil
| | - Guilherme Dias de Melo
- Lyssavirus Epidemiology and Neuropathology Unit, Intitut Pasteur, Université Paris Cité, 75015 Paris, France
| | - Tatiane Terumi Negrão Watanabe
- Department Population Health and Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27607, USA
- Antech Diagnostics, 12401 West Olympic Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90064, USA
| | - Valéria Felix de Lima
- School of Veterinary Medicine, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária de Araçatuba (FMVA), São Paulo State University (UNESP), R. Clóvis Pestana, 793, Dona Amélia, Araçatuba 16050-680, SP, Brazil
| | - Gisele Fabrino Machado
- School of Veterinary Medicine, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária de Araçatuba (FMVA), São Paulo State University (UNESP), R. Clóvis Pestana, 793, Dona Amélia, Araçatuba 16050-680, SP, Brazil
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Pereira ME, Canei DH, Carvalho MR, Dias ÁFDLR, de Almeida ADBPF, Nakazato L, Sousa VRF. Molecular prevalence and factors associated with Ehrlichia canis infection in dogs from the North Pantanal wetland, Brazil. Vet World 2023; 16:1209-1213. [PMID: 37577206 PMCID: PMC10421559 DOI: 10.14202/vetworld.2023.1209-1213] [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: 01/31/2023] [Accepted: 05/09/2023] [Indexed: 08/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Background and Aim Canine monocytic ehrlichiosis is a vector-borne disease caused by the obligatory intracellular bacterium Ehrlichia canis, which is distributed across tropical and subtropical regions worldwide. Its prevalence within dog populations is high in municipalities located across the Pantanal biome, but it remains unknown in Barão de Melgaço, Mato Grosso, Brazil. This study aimed to determine the molecular prevalence and factors associated with E. canis infection in dogs domiciled in Barão de Melgaço. Materials and Methods A cross-sectional study was carried out to investigate the prevalence of E. canis infection in 369 dogs from urban and rural areas in Barão de Melgaço, North Pantanal wetland, Brazil. Initially, the dogs were examined, and, through a questionnaire, the risk factors were investigated. Blood samples were subjected to DNA extraction and PCR was performed to estimate the prevalence of E. canis infection. Results The molecular prevalence of E. canis infection in dogs was 42.5% and none of the studied variables were significantly associated with polymerase chain reaction (PCR) positivity (p > 0.05). Conclusion The high molecular prevalence demonstrates an increased transmission of the agent across the city. This also indicates that attention needs to be paid to E. canis infection and control measures should be introduced to prevent its transmission. The demographic and clinical risk factors commonly associated with E. canis infection in this study were not associated with PCR positivity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariana Elisa Pereira
- Postgraduate Program in Veterinary Science, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Federal University of Mato Grosso, Avenue Fernando Correa da Costa, Boa Esperança, Cuiabá, Mato Grosso, Brazil
| | - Darlan Henrique Canei
- Postgraduate Program in Veterinary Science, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Federal University of Mato Grosso, Avenue Fernando Correa da Costa, Boa Esperança, Cuiabá, Mato Grosso, Brazil
| | - Matheus Roberto Carvalho
- Postgraduate Program in Veterinary Science, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Federal University of Mato Grosso, Avenue Fernando Correa da Costa, Boa Esperança, Cuiabá, Mato Grosso, Brazil
| | - Álvaro Felipe de Lima Ruy Dias
- Postgraduate Program in Veterinary Science, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Federal University of Mato Grosso, Avenue Fernando Correa da Costa, Boa Esperança, Cuiabá, Mato Grosso, Brazil
| | | | - Luciano Nakazato
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Federal University of Mato Grosso, Avenue Fernando Correa da Costa, Boa Esperança, Cuiabá, Mato Grosso, Brazil
| | - Valéria Régia Franco Sousa
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Federal University of Mato Grosso, Avenue Fernando Correa da Costa, Boa Esperança, Cuiabá, Mato Grosso, Brazil
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45
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de Pinho FA, Mendes MO, de Magalhães VLP, Tinôco AAC, Seoane JHL, Rêgo FD, Soares RP, Barrouin-Melo SM. Clinical evolution of equine leishmaniasis with self-limiting cutaneous disease caused by Leishmania infantum in northeastern Brazil: A case report. Vet Parasitol Reg Stud Reports 2023; 41:100881. [PMID: 37208087 DOI: 10.1016/j.vprsr.2023.100881] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2022] [Revised: 04/10/2023] [Accepted: 04/19/2023] [Indexed: 05/21/2023]
Abstract
Leishmania infantum infections have long been described in humans and dogs worldwide, but characterization of equine cases remains scarce. We describe the clinical evolution of a natural L. infantum infection to contribute to the diagnostic knowledge and epidemiology of equine leishmaniasis (EL). An auction-acquired four-year-old Mangalarga Marchador mare from Pernambuco state, presented a few subcutaneous nodules on the head and neck upon arrival at the purchaser's stud at Bahia state, in November of 2019. They progressed to multiple ulcerated and non-ulcerated nodules and spread to both right limbs in seven weeks. Hematology revealed anemia, lymphocytosis, monocytosis, and elevated plasma fibrinogen. Histopathology of the biopsied nodules identified a granulomatous dermatitis with macrophages containing Leishmania amastigotes. PCR detected Leishmania in skin lesions, but not in blood or spleen aspirate samples; ITS1 PCR-RFLP and DNA sequencing confirmed L. infantum species. A topical antiseptic and insect-repellent therapy and a monthly follow-up were established. All lesions improved progressively, without specific anti-Leishmania treatment, and 14 months later there was a consistent resolution. This first description of EL by L. infantum in an endemic area is relevant to emphasize the need for epidemiological studies, and to enhance clinicians' awareness for differential diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Flaviane Alves de Pinho
- Laboratory of Veterinary Infectious Diseases, Teaching Hospital of Veterinary Medicine, Federal University of Bahia, Av. Milton Santos 500, CEP: 40170-110, Salvador, BA, Brazil; Department of Veterinary Anatomy, Pathology and Clinics, School of Veterinary Medicine and Zootechny, Federal University of Bahia, Av. Milton Santos 500, CEP: 40170-110, Salvador, BA, Brazil
| | - Mariana Oliveira Mendes
- Laboratory of Veterinary Infectious Diseases, Teaching Hospital of Veterinary Medicine, Federal University of Bahia, Av. Milton Santos 500, CEP: 40170-110, Salvador, BA, Brazil
| | - Vitor Luiz Pereira de Magalhães
- Laboratory of Veterinary Infectious Diseases, Teaching Hospital of Veterinary Medicine, Federal University of Bahia, Av. Milton Santos 500, CEP: 40170-110, Salvador, BA, Brazil
| | | | | | - Felipe Dutra Rêgo
- Instituto Rene Rachou, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Av. Augusto de Lima, 1715 - Barro Preto, Belo Horizonte, CEP: 30190-009, MG, Brazil
| | - Rodrigo Pedro Soares
- Instituto Rene Rachou, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Av. Augusto de Lima, 1715 - Barro Preto, Belo Horizonte, CEP: 30190-009, MG, Brazil.
| | - Stella Maria Barrouin-Melo
- Laboratory of Veterinary Infectious Diseases, Teaching Hospital of Veterinary Medicine, Federal University of Bahia, Av. Milton Santos 500, CEP: 40170-110, Salvador, BA, Brazil; Department of Veterinary Anatomy, Pathology and Clinics, School of Veterinary Medicine and Zootechny, Federal University of Bahia, Av. Milton Santos 500, CEP: 40170-110, Salvador, BA, Brazil.
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Casamián-Sorrosal D, Barrera-Chacón R, Fonfara S, Cristobal-Verdejo JI, Talavera-López J, Belinchón-Lorenzo S, Miró-Corrales G, Caro-Vadillo A, Duque FJ. Evaluation of heart fatty acid-binding protein as a biomarker for canine leishmaniosis. Vet Rec 2023; 192:e2683. [PMID: 36755402 DOI: 10.1002/vetr.2683] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2022] [Revised: 12/01/2022] [Accepted: 01/09/2023] [Indexed: 02/10/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Myocarditis frequently occurs in canine leishmaniosis (CanL). Heart fatty acid-binding protein (HFABP) is a biomarker of myocardial damage. METHODS This study aimed to compare HFABP concentration (HFABPc) in healthy dogs and dogs at different stages of CanL and evaluate the correlation of this biomarker with several clinicopathological and echocardiographic variables. Thirty-one dogs diagnosed with CanL and 10 healthy dogs were included. RESULTS HFABPc was not statistically different (p > 0.05) between groups of dogs at different LeishVet stages of CanL or between groups with high versus low to intermediate serology titres. In 70% of CanL dogs, HFABPc was within the 95% confidence interval limits of the mean of healthy dogs. A moderate negative correlation with globulin (r = -0.519; p = 0.03) and haematocrit (HCT) (r = -0.538; p = 0.02) was observed. No other significant correlation (p > 0.05) was observed with any other variable. LIMITATIONS Many statistical tests were performed, and therefore, type I error cannot be ruled out. CONCLUSION HFABPc is not consistently elevated in dogs with CanL and is not associated with the severity of the disease, or most echocardiographic or clinicopathological variables studied. The correlation with globulin and HCT was not strong and not considered clinically significant. HFABPc lacks sufficient predictive capacity in dogs with CanL, discouraging further research or clinical use of this biomarker in this disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Domingo Casamián-Sorrosal
- Veterinary Teaching Hospital & Department of Animal Medicine and Surgery, School of Veterinary Science, Universidad Católica de Valencia San Vicente Mártir, Valencia, Spain
| | - Rafael Barrera-Chacón
- Department of Animal Medicine & LeishmanCeres Laboratory, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Universidad de Extremadura, Caceres, Spain
| | - Sonja Fonfara
- Department of Clinical Studies, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario, Canada
| | - José Ignacio Cristobal-Verdejo
- Department of Animal Medicine & LeishmanCeres Laboratory, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Universidad de Extremadura, Caceres, Spain
| | - Jesús Talavera-López
- Department of Animal Medicine and Surgery & Teaching Veterinary Hospital, Veterinary School, Universidad de Murcia, Murcia, Spain
| | - Silvia Belinchón-Lorenzo
- Department of Animal Medicine & LeishmanCeres Laboratory, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Universidad de Extremadura, Caceres, Spain
| | - Guadalupe Miró-Corrales
- Department of Animal Health & Veterinary Teaching Hospital, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Alicia Caro-Vadillo
- Department of Animal Medicine and Surgery & Veterinary Teaching Hospital, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Francisco Javier Duque
- Department of Animal Medicine & LeishmanCeres Laboratory, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Universidad de Extremadura, Caceres, Spain
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Baxarias M, Jornet-Rius O, Donato G, Mateu C, Alcover MM, Pennisi MG, Solano-Gallego L. Signalment, Immunological and Parasitological Status and Clinicopathological Findings of Leishmania-Seropositive Apparently Healthy Dogs. Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:ani13101649. [PMID: 37238079 DOI: 10.3390/ani13101649] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2023] [Revised: 05/12/2023] [Accepted: 05/12/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Canine leishmaniosis caused by Leishmania infantum is a disease with a wide range of clinical manifestations. Epidemiological serosurveys performed in Europe often lack a thorough assessment of clinical health status of studied dogs. The aim of this study was to evaluate signalment, immunological and parasitological status and clinicopathological findings of L. infantum-seropositive apparently healthy dogs (n = 212) living in endemic areas. Routine laboratory tests, endpoint in-house ELISA to quantify the anti-Leishmania antibodies, blood Leishmania qPCR and IFN-γ ELISA were performed. All dogs enrolled were L. infantum-seropositive and were classified as healthy (n = 105) or sick (n = 107) according to LeishVet guidelines. The sick group presented a higher proportion of medium to high antibody levels and positive qPCR and lower IFN-γ concentration compared to the healthy group. Sick dogs were mostly classified in LeishVet stage IIa. Biochemical alterations (98%) were the most common clinicopathological findings, with fewer urinary tract (46%) and hematological (40%) alterations. Apparently healthy L. infantum-seropositive dogs can be classified between truly healthy dogs and sick dogs with clinicopathological findings. Sick dogs presented medium to high seropositivity and parasitemia and low IFN-γ concentrations, and their most common clinicopathological abnormalities were serum protein alterations followed by proteinuria and lymphopenia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Baxarias
- Departament de Medicina i Cirurgia Animals, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08193 Bellaterra, Spain
| | - Oriol Jornet-Rius
- Departament de Medicina i Cirurgia Animals, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08193 Bellaterra, Spain
| | - Giulia Donato
- Dipartimento di Scienze Veterinarie, Università di Messina-Polo Universitario Annunziata, 98168 Messina, Italy
| | | | - Mª Magdalena Alcover
- Departament de Biologia, Sanitat i Medi Ambient, Facultat de Farmacia, Universitat de Barcelona, 08028 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Maria Grazia Pennisi
- Dipartimento di Scienze Veterinarie, Università di Messina-Polo Universitario Annunziata, 98168 Messina, Italy
| | - Laia Solano-Gallego
- Departament de Medicina i Cirurgia Animals, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08193 Bellaterra, Spain
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de Jong MK, Rappoldt A, Broere F, Piek CJ. Survival time and prognostic factors in canine leishmaniosis in a non-endemic country treated with a two-phase protocol including initial allopurinol monotherapy. Parasit Vectors 2023; 16:163. [PMID: 37189181 PMCID: PMC10184344 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-023-05777-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2023] [Accepted: 04/16/2023] [Indexed: 05/17/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Leishmania infantum is an intracellular protozoan parasite which is endemic in countries of the Mediterranean Basin. Leishmaniosis is increasingly diagnosed in non-endemic areas due to the relocation of dogs from endemic areas and the travel of dogs to and from these areas. The prognosis of leishmaniosis in these dogs may differ from that of those in endemic areas. The aims of this study were (1) to determine the Kaplan-Meier estimated survival time for dogs with leishmaniosis in the Netherlands (a non-endemic country), (2) to determine if clinicopathological variables at the time of diagnosis predicted the survival of these dogs, and (3) to evaluate the effect of a two-phase therapy protocol of allopurinol monotherapy followed by meglumine antimoniate and/or miltefosine in the case of incomplete remission or relapse. METHODS The database of the Department of Clinical Sciences of Companion Animals of the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University was investigated for leishmaniosis patients. Patient records were reviewed for signalment and clinicopathological data at the time of diagnosis. Only treatment-naive patients were included. Follow-up was performed during the study by phone contact and included treatment received and date and cause of death. Univariate analysis was performed using the Cox proportional hazards regression model. RESULTS The estimated median Kaplan-Meier survival time was 6.4 years. In the univariate analysis, increases in monocyte, plasma urea and creatinine concentrations, and urine protein to creatinine ratio were all significantly associated with decreased survival time. The majority of patients only received allopurinol monotherapy. CONCLUSIONS Canine leishmaniosis patients in our study population in the Netherlands, which is non-endemic for the disease, had an estimated Kaplan-Meier median survival time of 6.4 years, which is comparable to the outcome of other reported therapy protocols. Increased plasma urea and creatinine concentrations and monocyte concentration were statistically associated with an increased risk of death. We conclude that initial allopurinol monotherapy for 3 months should be effective in more than half of canine leishmaniosis cases, provided there is adequate follow-up, and that meglumine antimoniate or miltefosine therapy should be started as the second phase of the protocol in cases where remission is incomplete or there is a relapse.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marja Klazina de Jong
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Yalelaan 108, 3584 CM, Utrecht, The Netherlands.
| | - Aukje Rappoldt
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Yalelaan 108, 3584 CM, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Femke Broere
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Yalelaan 108, 3584 CM, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Christine Jantine Piek
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Yalelaan 108, 3584 CM, Utrecht, The Netherlands
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49
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Morelli S, Diakou A, Frangipane di Regalbono A, Colombo M, Simonato G, Di Cesare A, Passarelli A, Pezzuto C, Tzitzoudi Z, Barlaam A, Beall M, Chandrashekar R, Pantchev N, Traversa D. Use of In-Clinic Diagnostic Kits for the Detection of Seropositivity to Leishmania infantum and Other Major Vector-Borne Pathogens in Healthy Dogs. Pathogens 2023; 12:pathogens12050696. [PMID: 37242366 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens12050696] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2023] [Revised: 05/07/2023] [Accepted: 05/08/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Canine Vector-Borne Diseases (CVBDs) are widespread in Europe and enzootic in many other countries. Though severe illnesses may occur, dogs living in enzootic areas often show vague or no clinical signs of CVBDs. Undiagnosed infections/co-infections in subclinically infected animals favor the spread of CVBDs and increase the risk of transmission to other animals and, in some cases, humans. This study has evaluated the exposure of dogs living in key enzootic countries, i.e., Italy and Greece, to major CVBDs via the use of in-clinic diagnostic kits. Overall, 300 privately owned dogs without/with single mild clinical signs living in different regions of Italy (n. 150) and Greece (n. 150) were included in the study. As part of a clinical examination, a blood sample was collected from each dog and subjected to two serological rapid tests, i.e., the SNAP® 4Dx®Plus (IDEXX Laboratories Inc.) for the detection of antibodies against Ehrlichia spp., Anaplasma spp., Borrelia burgdorferi s.l. and Dirofilaria immitis antigen and the SNAP®Leishmania (IDEXX Laboratories Inc.) for the detection of antibodies against Leishmania infantum. In all, 51 dogs (17%; 95% CI 12.9-21.7) were seropositive to at least 1 pathogen, i.e., 4 in Italy (2.7%; 95% CI 1.4-13.1) and 47 in Greece (31.3%; 95% CI 24-39.4). Dirofilaria immitis antigens were found in 39 dogs (13%; 95% CI 9.4-17.3), while antibodies against Ehrlichia, Anaplasma and Leishmania were detected in 25 (8.3%; 95% CI 5.5-12.1), 8 (2.7%; 95% CI 1.2-5.2) and 5 (1.7%; 95% CI 0.5-3.8) dogs, respectively. None of the dogs tested seropositive for B. burgdorferi s.l. Statistical analyses were performed to evaluate associations between exposure to CVBDs and possible risk factors. The present results indicate that dogs living in enzootic areas may be seropositive for one or more CVBDs in absence of clinical signs. Rapid kits are among first line tools for the detection of CVBDs in clinical settings, as they are cost-effective, straightforward and quick to use. Also, in-clinic tests used herein allowed detection of co-exposure to CVBDs investigated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simone Morelli
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Teramo, 64100 Teramo, Italy
| | - Anastasia Diakou
- School of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | | | - Mariasole Colombo
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Teramo, 64100 Teramo, Italy
| | - Giulia Simonato
- Department of Animal Medicine, Production and Health, University of Padua, 35020 Legnaro, Italy
| | - Angela Di Cesare
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Teramo, 64100 Teramo, Italy
| | | | - Carlo Pezzuto
- Ambulatorio Veterinario Pezzuto Carlo/Piano Noemi, 86010 Campobasso, Italy
| | - Zoe Tzitzoudi
- School of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Alessandra Barlaam
- Department of Agriculture, Food, Natural Resources and Engineering, University of Foggia, Via Napoli 25, 71121 Foggia, Italy
| | | | | | | | - Donato Traversa
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Teramo, 64100 Teramo, Italy
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50
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Ruiz P, Durán Á, Duque FJ, González MA, Cristóbal JI, Nicolás P, Pérez-Merino EM, Macías-García B, Barrera R. Urinary cystatin C and N-acetyl-beta-D-glucosaminidase (NAG) as early biomarkers for renal disease in dogs with leishmaniosis. Vet Parasitol 2023; 318:109930. [PMID: 37030024 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2023.109930] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2022] [Revised: 03/29/2023] [Accepted: 04/04/2023] [Indexed: 04/10/2023]
Abstract
Canine leishmaniasis (CanL) is a disease caused by Leishmania infantum that can vary from a subclinical infection to a severe disease. Dogs affected with CanL present varying degrees of renal dysfunction. Unfortunately, traditional biomarkers such as urea and creatinine detect renal damage in advanced stages of the disease, so more accurate biomarkers are needed. Hence, we aimed to study how urinary cystatin C (CysC) and N-acetyl-beta-D-glucosaminidase (NAG), behave in dogs with CanL at different stages of the disease. Eighty-six CanL infected dogs were classified according to LeishVet stages: LI (16 dogs), LIIa (12 dogs), LIIb (12 dogs), LIII (16 dogs) and LIV (30 dogs); as a control, 17 healthy dogs were studied. Blood samples were collected for complete haematological and biochemistry analysis including plasma cystatin C. Urine analysis included urine specific gravity (USG), urine protein to creatinine ratio (UPC), CysC and NAG expressed as a ratio with creatinine uCysCc (μg/g) and uNAGc (IU/g). The haematological, biochemical and urinary analysis coincided with the LeishVet guidelines. The statistical study of the uCysCc ratio and the uNAGc, showed significant increase when compared against control starting from group LI (p < 0.05). Interestingly, when the cut-off values were calculated using the ROC curve, uCysCc (258.85 µg/g) and uNAGc (2.25 IU/g) 75 % of the dogs included in LI groups surpassed the threshold. Hence our study indicates that uCysCc and uNAGc, could help to detect early renal damage in CanL affected dogs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patricia Ruiz
- MINVET Research Group. Departamento de Medicina Animal, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de Extremadura, 10003 Cáceres, Spain
| | - Ángela Durán
- Hospital Clínico Veterinario, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de Extremadura, 10003 Cáceres, Spain
| | - Francisco Javier Duque
- MINVET Research Group. Departamento de Medicina Animal, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de Extremadura, 10003 Cáceres, Spain
| | - Mario Alberto González
- MINVET Research Group. Departamento de Medicina Animal, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de Extremadura, 10003 Cáceres, Spain
| | - José Ignacio Cristóbal
- Hospital Clínico Veterinario, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de Extremadura, 10003 Cáceres, Spain
| | - Paloma Nicolás
- MINVET Research Group. Departamento de Medicina Animal, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de Extremadura, 10003 Cáceres, Spain
| | - Eva María Pérez-Merino
- Departamento de Medicina Animal, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de Extremadura, 10003 Cáceres, Spain
| | - Beatriz Macías-García
- MINVET Research Group. Departamento de Medicina Animal, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de Extremadura, 10003 Cáceres, Spain.
| | - Rafael Barrera
- MINVET Research Group. Departamento de Medicina Animal, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de Extremadura, 10003 Cáceres, Spain
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