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Huggins LG, Namgyel U, Wangchuk P, Atapattu U, Traub R, Colella V. Metabarcoding using nanopore sequencing enables identification of diverse and zoonotic vector-borne pathogens from neglected regions: A case study investigating dogs from Bhutan. One Health 2024; 19:100839. [PMID: 39005237 PMCID: PMC11238191 DOI: 10.1016/j.onehlt.2024.100839] [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: 05/27/2024] [Revised: 06/12/2024] [Accepted: 06/13/2024] [Indexed: 07/16/2024] Open
Abstract
The diversity and prevalence of canine vector-borne pathogens (VBPs) in Bhutan have to date remained unexplored, whilst recent epidemiological surveys in other South Asian nations have found diseases caused by VBPs to be rife in local dog populations. Importantly, many of such VBPs can infect people as well, with a building body of evidence identifying potentially zoonotic rickettsial organisms infecting humans in Bhutan. Given the lack of data on canine pathogens in Bhutan we employed a suite of deep-sequencing metabarcoding methods using Oxford Nanopore Technologies' MinION™ device to holistically characterise the bacterial, apicomplexan and filarial worm blood-borne pathogens of dogs in the country's south. Of the 95 stray, owned and community dogs sampled 78% (95% CI = 69%-85%) were infected with at least one VBP. Pathogen species detected were highly diverse including the bacteria Mycoplasma haemocanis in 16% (95% CI: 10-24%), Ehrlichia canis in 4% (95% CI: 2-10%), Anaplasma platys in 2% (95% CI: 0.5-7%) of dogs as well as the zoonotic species Bartonella clarridgeiae in 1% (95% CI: 0.1-6%), a potentially novel Bartonella spp. and an Ehrlichia chaffeensis-like bacterium, both in 1% (95% CI: 0.1-6%) of dogs. The apicomplexan haemoparasites Hepatozoon canis in 62% (95% CI: 52-71%), Babesia gibsoni in 45% (95% CI: 36-55%) and Babesia vogeli in 3% (95% CI: 1-9%) of dogs were also detected. Finally, 5% (95% CI: 2-12%) of dogs were found to be infected with the filarioid Acanthocheilonema reconditum and 1% (95% CI: 0.1-6%) with zoonotic Dirofilaria sp. hongkongensis. One canine was found positive to the filarioid Setaria tundra, a species normally found infecting cervids. The elucidated diversity of VBP communities highlights the strength of assumption-free diagnostics, such as metabarcoding, in detecting rare, novel, and unexpected pathogens. This approach to identifying pathogen diversity is of critical importance when investigating regions and populations that have thus far been neglected, with the findings aiding the development of future One Health informed strategies for disease control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucas G. Huggins
- Melbourne Veterinary School, Faculty of Science, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria 3050, Australia
| | - Ugyen Namgyel
- National Centre for Animal Health, Serbithang, Thimphu 11001, Bhutan
| | - Pelden Wangchuk
- National Centre for Animal Health, Serbithang, Thimphu 11001, Bhutan
| | - Ushani Atapattu
- Melbourne Veterinary School, Faculty of Science, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria 3050, Australia
| | - Rebecca Traub
- Melbourne Veterinary School, Faculty of Science, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria 3050, Australia
- CityU Jockey Club College of Veterinary Medicine and Life Sciences, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon, Hong Kong
| | - Vito Colella
- Melbourne Veterinary School, Faculty of Science, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria 3050, Australia
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2
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das Chagas MEM, de Mello-Oliveira VS, Guerro-de-Souza M, Calchi AC, Castro-Santiago AC, de Mello ÉM, de Suguiura IMS, Lourenço EC, Famadas KM, Dowling APG, André MR, Barros-Battesti DM, Jacinavicius FDC, Bassini-Silva R. Molecular detection of Bartonella spp. in bat-associated macronyssid mites (Acari: Macronyssidae) from Southern and Southeastern Brazil. Vet Res Commun 2024:10.1007/s11259-024-10393-1. [PMID: 38662316 DOI: 10.1007/s11259-024-10393-1] [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: 03/06/2024] [Accepted: 04/21/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024]
Abstract
Despite the worldwide occurrence and high genetic diversity of Bartonella spp. in bats, few studies investigate their occurrence in bat-associated mites. To date, 26 species of Macronyssidae mite species have been reported from Brazil, and 15 of which were found parasitizing bats. The present study aimed to investigate the presence of Bartonella DNA in bat-associated macronyssid mites from Brazil. For this purpose, 393 macronyssid specimens were selected by convenience from the tissue bank of the Acari Collection of the Instituto Butantan (IBSP). These mites were collected from 14 different bat species in three different Brazilian States (Minas Gerais, Paraná, and Rio de Janeiro). Out of 165 mites positive in the PCR for the endogenous 18S rRNA gene, only eight were positive in the qPCR for Bartonella spp. based on the nuoG gene, and we were able to obtain two sequences base in this same gene, and one sequence based on the 16S rRNA gene. The phylogenetic inference based on the nuoG gene grouped the obtained sequences with Bartonella genotypes previously detected in bats and associated bat flies, while the phylogeny based on the 16S rRNA grouped the obtained sequence in the same clade of Bartonella genotypes previously detected in Dermanyssus gallinae. These findings suggest that macronyssid mites might be associated with the maintenance of bartonellae among bats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Eduarda Moraes das Chagas
- Vector-Borne Bioagents Laboratory (VBBL), Departamento de Patologia, Reprodução e Saúde Única, Faculdade de Ciências Agrárias e Veterinárias-UNESP, Jaboticabal, SP, Brazil
| | - Victor Souza de Mello-Oliveira
- Vector-Borne Bioagents Laboratory (VBBL), Departamento de Patologia, Reprodução e Saúde Única, Faculdade de Ciências Agrárias e Veterinárias-UNESP, Jaboticabal, SP, Brazil
| | - Mariane Guerro-de-Souza
- Vector-Borne Bioagents Laboratory (VBBL), Departamento de Patologia, Reprodução e Saúde Única, Faculdade de Ciências Agrárias e Veterinárias-UNESP, Jaboticabal, SP, Brazil
| | - Ana Cláudia Calchi
- Vector-Borne Bioagents Laboratory (VBBL), Departamento de Patologia, Reprodução e Saúde Única, Faculdade de Ciências Agrárias e Veterinárias-UNESP, Jaboticabal, SP, Brazil
| | | | - Érica Munhoz de Mello
- Laboratório de Morcegos Urbanos, Centro de Controle de Zoonoses de Belo Horizonte, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | | | - Elizabete Captivo Lourenço
- Laboratório de Ecologia de Mamíferos, Departamento de Ecologia, Universidade do Estado do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Katia Maria Famadas
- Laboratório de Artrópodes Parasitos, Departamento de Parasitologia Animal, Universidade Federal Rural do Rio de Janeiro, Seropédica, RJ, Brazil
| | - Ashley P G Dowling
- Department of Entomology & Plant Pathology, University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, AR, USA
| | - Marcos Rogério André
- Vector-Borne Bioagents Laboratory (VBBL), Departamento de Patologia, Reprodução e Saúde Única, Faculdade de Ciências Agrárias e Veterinárias-UNESP, Jaboticabal, SP, Brazil
| | - Darci Moraes Barros-Battesti
- Vector-Borne Bioagents Laboratory (VBBL), Departamento de Patologia, Reprodução e Saúde Única, Faculdade de Ciências Agrárias e Veterinárias-UNESP, Jaboticabal, SP, Brazil
| | | | - Ricardo Bassini-Silva
- Vector-Borne Bioagents Laboratory (VBBL), Departamento de Patologia, Reprodução e Saúde Única, Faculdade de Ciências Agrárias e Veterinárias-UNESP, Jaboticabal, SP, Brazil.
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3
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Ahmad S, Verli H. In silico identification of drug targets and vaccine candidates against Bartonella quintana: a subtractive proteomics approach. Mem Inst Oswaldo Cruz 2024; 119:e230040. [PMID: 38655925 PMCID: PMC11034861 DOI: 10.1590/0074-02760230040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2023] [Accepted: 02/29/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The availability of genes and protein sequences for parasites has provided valuable information for drug target identification and vaccine development. One such parasite is Bartonella quintana, a Gram-negative, intracellular pathogen that causes bartonellosis in mammalian hosts. OBJECTIVE Despite progress in understanding its pathogenesis, limited knowledge exists about the virulence factors and regulatory mechanisms specific to B. quintana. METHODS AND FINDINGS To explore these aspects, we have adopted a subtractive proteomics approach to analyse the proteome of B. quintana. By subtractive proteins between the host and parasite proteome, a set of proteins that are likely unique to the parasite but absent in the host were identified. This analysis revealed that out of the 1197 protein sequences of the parasite, 660 proteins are non-homologous to the human host. Further analysis using the Database of Essential Genes predicted 159 essential proteins, with 28 of these being unique to the pathogen and predicted as potential putative targets. Subcellular localisation of the predicted targets revealed 13 cytoplasmic, eight membranes, one periplasmic, and multiple location proteins. The three-dimensional structure and B cell epitopes of the six membrane antigenic protein were predicted. Four B cell epitopes in KdtA and mraY proteins, three in lpxB and BQ09550, whereas the ftsl and yidC proteins were located with eleven and six B cell epitopes, respectively. MAINS CONCLUSIONS This insight prioritises such proteins as novel putative targets for further investigations on their potential as drug and vaccine candidates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shabir Ahmad
- Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Centro de Biotecnologia, Porto Alegre, RS, Brasil
| | - Hugo Verli
- Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Centro de Biotecnologia, Porto Alegre, RS, Brasil
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Kim L, Lashnits E, Breitschwerdt EB, Elam A, Grade N, Miller J, Shikhman AR. Antibodies to Borrelia burgdorferi and Bartonella species in serum and synovial fluid from people with rheumatic diseases. Microbiol Spectr 2024; 12:e0165323. [PMID: 38483477 PMCID: PMC10986562 DOI: 10.1128/spectrum.01653-23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2023] [Accepted: 02/03/2024] [Indexed: 04/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Vector-borne infections may underlie some rheumatic diseases, particularly in people with joint effusions. This study aimed to compare serum and synovial fluid antibodies to B. burgdorferi and Bartonella spp. in patients with rheumatic diseases. This observational, cross-sectional study examined paired synovial fluid and serum specimens collected from 110 patients with joint effusion between October 2017 and January 2022. Testing for antibodies to B. burgdorferi (using CDC criteria) and Bartonella spp. via two indirect fluorescent antibody (IFA) assays was performed as part of routine patient care at the Institute for Specialized Medicine (San Diego, CA, USA). There were 30 participants (27%) with positive two-tier B. burgdorferi serology and 26 participants (24%) with IFA seroreactivity (≥1:256) to B. henselae and/or B. quintana. Both B. burgdorferi IgM and IgG were detected more frequently in synovial fluid than serum: 27% of patients were either IgM or IgG positive in synovial fluid, compared to 15.5% in serum (P = 0.048). Conversely, B. henselae and B. quintana antibodies were detected more frequently in serum than synovial fluid; overall only 2% of patients had positive IFA titers in synovial fluid, compared to 24% who had positive IFA titers in serum (P < 0.001). There were no significant associations between B. burgdorferi or Bartonella spp. seroreactivity with any of the clinical rheumatological diagnoses. This study provides preliminary support for the importance of synovial fluid antibody testing for documenting exposure to B. burgdorferi but not for documenting exposure to Bartonella spp. IMPORTANCE This study focuses on diagnostic testing for two common vector-borne diseases in an affected patient population. In it, we provide data showing that antibodies to B. burgdorferi, but not Bartonella spp., are more commonly found in synovial fluid than serum of patients with joint effusion. Since Lyme arthritis is a common-and sometimes difficult to diagnose-rheumatic disease, improving diagnostic capabilities is of utmost importance. While our findings are certainly not definitive for changes to practice, they do suggest that synovial fluid could be a useful sample for the clinical diagnosis of Lyme disease, and future prospective studies evaluating this claim are warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa Kim
- Department of Medical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Erin Lashnits
- Department of Medical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Edward B. Breitschwerdt
- Intracellular Pathogens Research Laboratory and Comparative Medicine Institute, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina, USA
| | - Amanda Elam
- Galaxy Diagnostics, Research Triangle, North Carolina, USA
| | - Neenah Grade
- Galaxy Diagnostics, Research Triangle, North Carolina, USA
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Gamboa-Prieto J, Cruz-Romero A, Jiménez-Hernández JA, Ramos-Vázquez JR, Ballados-González GG, Romero-Salas D, Pardío-Sedas VT, Esparza-Gonzalez SC, Becker I, Sánchez-Montes S. Detection of Bartonella bovis DNA in blood samples from a veterinarian in Mexico. Rev Inst Med Trop Sao Paulo 2023; 65:e62. [PMID: 38055380 DOI: 10.1590/s1678-9946202365062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2023] [Accepted: 07/25/2023] [Indexed: 12/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The genus Bartonella encompasses 38 validated species of Gram-negative, facultative intracellular bacteria that colonize the endothelial cells and erythrocytes of a wide spectrum of mammals. To date, 12 Bartonella species have been recorded infecting humans, causing diseases of long historical characterization, such as cat scratch fever and trench fever, and emerging bartonellosis that mainly affect animal health professionals. For this reason, this study aimed to report a documented case of Bartonella bovis infecting a veterinarian from Mexico by the amplification, sequencing and phylogenetic reconstruction of the citrate synthase (gltA) and the RNA polymerase beta-subunit (rpoB) genes, and to report the natural course of this infection. To our knowledge, this work is the first to report the transmission of B. bovis via needlestick transmission to animal health workers in Latin America.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jannete Gamboa-Prieto
- Universidad Veracruzana, Facultad de Medicina Veterinaria y Zootecnia, Laboratorio de Enfermedades Infecciosas, Veracruz, Mexico
| | - Anabel Cruz-Romero
- Universidad Veracruzana, Facultad de Medicina Veterinaria y Zootecnia, Laboratorio de Enfermedades Infecciosas, Veracruz, Mexico
| | - José A Jiménez-Hernández
- Universidad Veracruzana, Facultad de Medicina Veterinaria y Zootecnia, Laboratorio de Enfermedades Infecciosas, Veracruz, Mexico
| | - José Rodrigo Ramos-Vázquez
- Universidad Veracruzana, Facultad de Medicina Veterinaria y Zootecnia, Laboratorio de Enfermedades Infecciosas, Veracruz, Mexico
| | - Gerardo G Ballados-González
- Universidad Veracruzana, Facultad de Medicina Veterinaria y Zootecnia, Laboratorio de Enfermedades Infecciosas, Veracruz, Mexico
| | - Dora Romero-Salas
- Universidad Veracruzana, Facultad de Medicina Veterinaria y Zootecnia, Laboratorio de Parasitología, Veracruz, Mexico
| | - Violeta T Pardío-Sedas
- Universidad Veracruzana, Facultad de Medicina Veterinaria y Zootecnia, Laboratorio de Seguridad Agroalimentaria, Veracruz, Mexico
| | | | - Ingeborg Becker
- Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Facultad de Medicina, División de Investigación, Centro de Medicina Tropical, Ciudad de México, Mexico
| | - Sokani Sánchez-Montes
- Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Facultad de Medicina, División de Investigación, Centro de Medicina Tropical, Ciudad de México, Mexico
- Universidad Veracruzana, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas y Agropecuarias, región Tuxpan, Tuxpan de Rodríguez Cano, Veracruz, Mexico
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6
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Hempel A, Manzoor F, Petrescu D. Hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis secondary to unrecognized Bartonella henselae infection: a case report. Trop Dis Travel Med Vaccines 2023; 9:14. [PMID: 37743475 PMCID: PMC10518968 DOI: 10.1186/s40794-023-00200-1] [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: 04/06/2023] [Accepted: 06/28/2023] [Indexed: 09/26/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Bartonella henselae is a species of intracellular bacteria transmitted to humans through animal bites and scratches contaminated with the feces of arthropod vectors, and are most commonly associated with cat exposure although transmission from other mammals has been reported. Bartonella henselae infection has a spectrum of clinical manifestations and has rarely been reported as cause of hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH) in immunocompromised hosts. CASE PRESENTATION We present a report of Bartonella henselae infection progressing to HLH in an immunocompetent patient. The patient initially presented with regional lymphadenopathy but the diagnosis was not suspected as the patient reported no exposure to cats. On further history, he did report a scratch from a dog prior to development of symptoms. The patient was treated with methylprednisolone, intravenous immunoglobulin and anakinra for the HLH and three months of Doxycycline for Bartonella infection, with complete resolution of symptoms. CONCLUSIONS Although commonly associated with cat exposure, Bartonella henselae transmission can occur after exposure to other animals and vectors including dogs and clinicians need to maintain an index of suspicion for timely diagnosis. Bartonella henselae is associated with a spectrum of clinical manifestations which can include disseminated infection with severe complications such as hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis. Prompt initiation of Bartonella treatment is essential when thought to be the trigger for hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis although the optimal treatment regimen is unclear.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanda Hempel
- Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, RM 13EN, 300 Elizabeth Street, Toronto, ON, M5G 2C4, Canada.
| | - Fizza Manzoor
- Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, RM 13EN, 300 Elizabeth Street, Toronto, ON, M5G 2C4, Canada
| | - Dan Petrescu
- Division of Infectious Diseases, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
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Hammoud A, Medkour H, Zgheib R, Louni M, Diatta G, Bassene H, Sambou M, Gaye M, Haddad G, Fenollar F, Sokhna C, Mediannikov O. Bartonella raoultii sp. nov., isolated from infected rodents ( Mastomys erythroleucus) in Senegal. Int J Syst Evol Microbiol 2023; 73. [PMID: 37578895 DOI: 10.1099/ijsem.0.005888] [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] [Indexed: 08/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Bartonella species are involved in various human diseases, causing a range of clinical manifestations; animals are considered as the main reservoirs, transmitting diverse species of Bartonella through direct contact and haematophagous insects. Here, we characterize a new species, Bartonella raoultii sp. nov., within the genus Bartonella, using a taxonogenomic polyphasic approach. Strain 094T (= CSUR B1097T=DSM 28004T), isolated from the blood of an infected rodent (Mastomys erythroleucus) in Senegal, is an aerobic and rod-shaped bacterium. The annotated non-contiguous genome sequence is 1 952322 bp long and contains 37.2 mol% G+C content, 1686 protein-coding genes and 50 RNA genes, including seven rRNA genes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alissa Hammoud
- IHU Méditerranée Infection, 13005 Marseille, France
- Aix Marseille Univ, IRD, APHM, MEPHI, 13005 Marseille, France
| | - Hacène Medkour
- IHU Méditerranée Infection, 13005 Marseille, France
- Aix Marseille Univ, IRD, APHM, MEPHI, 13005 Marseille, France
| | - Rita Zgheib
- IHU Méditerranée Infection, 13005 Marseille, France
- Aix Marseille Univ, IRD, APHM, VITROME, 13005 Marseille, France
| | - Meriem Louni
- IHU Méditerranée Infection, 13005 Marseille, France
- Aix Marseille Univ, IRD, APHM, VITROME, 13005 Marseille, France
- Faculty of Science, M'Hamed Bougara Boumerdès University, Boumerdès 35000, Algeria
| | - Georges Diatta
- VITROME, Campus International IRD-UCAD Hann, Dakar, Senegal
| | - Hubert Bassene
- VITROME, Campus International IRD-UCAD Hann, Dakar, Senegal
| | - Masse Sambou
- VITROME, Campus International IRD-UCAD Hann, Dakar, Senegal
| | - Mapenda Gaye
- IHU Méditerranée Infection, 13005 Marseille, France
- Aix Marseille Univ, IRD, APHM, MEPHI, 13005 Marseille, France
| | - Gabriel Haddad
- IHU Méditerranée Infection, 13005 Marseille, France
- Aix Marseille Univ, IRD, APHM, MEPHI, 13005 Marseille, France
| | - Florence Fenollar
- IHU Méditerranée Infection, 13005 Marseille, France
- Aix Marseille Univ, IRD, APHM, VITROME, 13005 Marseille, France
| | - Cheikh Sokhna
- IHU Méditerranée Infection, 13005 Marseille, France
- Aix Marseille Univ, IRD, APHM, VITROME, 13005 Marseille, France
| | - Oleg Mediannikov
- IHU Méditerranée Infection, 13005 Marseille, France
- Aix Marseille Univ, IRD, APHM, MEPHI, 13005 Marseille, France
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8
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Bush JC, Maggi RG, Breitschwerdt EB. Viability and Desiccation Resistance of Bartonella henselae in Biological and Non-Biological Fluids: Evidence for Pathogen Environmental Stability. Pathogens 2023; 12:950. [PMID: 37513797 PMCID: PMC10383451 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens12070950] [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: 06/09/2023] [Revised: 07/06/2023] [Accepted: 07/06/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Pathogen environmental stability is an often-neglected research priority for pathogens that are known to be vector-transmitted. Bartonella henselae, the etiologic agent of Cat Scratch Disease, has become a "pathogen of interest" in several serious human illnesses, which include neoplastic, cardiovascular, neurocognitive, and rheumatologic conditions. Survival in the flea gut and feces as well as the association with a biofilm in culture-negative endocarditis provides insight into this organism's ability to adjust to environmental extremes. The detection of B. henselae DNA in blood and tissues from marine mammals also raises questions about environmental stability and modes of pathogen transmission. We investigated the ability of B. henselae to survive in fluid matrices chosen to mimic potential environmental sources of infective materials. Feline whole blood, serum and urine, bovine milk, and physiologic saline inoculated with a laboratory strain of B. henselae San Antonio 2 were subsequently evaluated by culture and qPCR at specified time intervals. Bacterial viability was also assessed following desiccation and reconstitution of each inoculated fluid matrix. Bartonella henselae SA2 was cultured from feline urine up to 24 h after inoculation, and from blood, serum, cow's milk, and physiologic saline for up to 7 days after inoculation. Of potential medical importance, bacteria were cultured following air-desiccation of all fluid inoculates. The viability and stability of Bartonella within biological and non-biological fluids in the environment may represent a previously unrecognized source of infection for animals and human beings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janice C Bush
- Intracellular Pathogens Research Laboratory, Department of Clinical Sciences, Comparative Medicine Institute, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27606, USA
| | - Ricardo G Maggi
- Intracellular Pathogens Research Laboratory, Department of Clinical Sciences, Comparative Medicine Institute, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27606, USA
| | - Edward B Breitschwerdt
- Intracellular Pathogens Research Laboratory, Department of Clinical Sciences, Comparative Medicine Institute, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27606, USA
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9
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Cao XQ, Gu XL, Zhang L, Xu J, Han HJ, Yu XJ. Molecular detection of Rickettsia, Anaplasma, and Bartonella in ticks from free-ranging sheep in Gansu Province, China. Ticks Tick Borne Dis 2023; 14:102137. [PMID: 36738629 DOI: 10.1016/j.ttbdis.2023.102137] [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: 08/18/2022] [Revised: 01/18/2023] [Accepted: 01/22/2023] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Ticks pose a serious threat to public health as carriers and often vectors of zoonotic pathogens. There are few systematic studies on the prevalence and genetic diversity of tick-borne bacterial pathogens in Western China. In this study, 465 ticks were collected from free-ranging sheep in Gansu Province in China. Ticks were divided into 113 pools and tick DNA was extracted from these ticks. PCR assays were performed using specific primers to screen for tick-borne pathogens as well as sequence analysis based on the 16S rRNA (rrs), ompB, gltA, ompA genes for Rickettsia, rrs, groEL genes for Anaplasma, and ssrA and rpoB genes for Bartonella. The PCR results showed that the minimum infection rates with Rickettsia, Anaplasma, and Bartonella were 16.8% (78/465), 18.9% (88/465), and 0.9% (4/465), respectively. Sequence analysis based on the concatenated sequences of rrs-ompB-gltA-ompA indicated that the Rickettsia species identified in the ticks belonged to Rickettsia raoultii, Rickettsia slovaca, and Rickettsia sibirica, respectively; phylogenetic analysis based on the groEL gene showed that all Anaplasma strains identified were Anaplasma ovis; and phylogenetic analysis based on the ssrA and rpoB genes indicated that all Bartonella strains in the ticks belonged to Bartonella melophagi. The results of this study showed that ticks in Gansu Province harbored multiple pathogens that may cause rickettsial diseases and bartonellosis. These diseases were neglected in the area and physicians and public health workers need to pay attention to their diagnoses to prevent human infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao-Qian Cao
- State Key Laboratory of Virology, School of Public Health, Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Xiao-Lan Gu
- State Key Laboratory of Virology, School of Public Health, Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Li Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Virology, School of Public Health, Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Jiao Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Virology, School of Public Health, Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Hui-Ju Han
- School of Public Health, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Ji'nan, Shandong, China.
| | - Xue-Jie Yu
- State Key Laboratory of Virology, School of Public Health, Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, China.
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10
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Gonçalves-Oliveira J, Damasco PV, Assis MRDS, Freitas DE, Pessoa Junior AA, de Sousa LS, Rodrigues NG, Damasco PH, Ribeiro PF, Barbosa GF, Moreira NS, Guedes JF, Coutinho HMDR, Madi K, de Lemos ERS. Infectious endocarditis caused by Bartonella henselae associated with infected pets: two case reports. J Med Case Rep 2023; 17:143. [PMID: 37072873 PMCID: PMC10112992 DOI: 10.1186/s13256-023-03839-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2021] [Accepted: 02/24/2023] [Indexed: 04/20/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Blood culture-negative infective endocarditis is a potentially severe disease that can be associated with infectious agents such as Bartonella spp., Coxiella burnetti, Tropheryma whipplei, and some fungi. CASE PRESENTATION Reported here are two cases of blood culture-negative infective endocarditis in patients with severe aortic and mitral regurgitation in Brazil; the first case is a 47-year-old white man and the second is a 62-year-old white woman. Bartonella henselae deoxyribonucleic acid was detectable in the blood samples and cardiac valve with vegetation paraffin-fixed tissue samples. Additionally, an investigation was carried out on patients' pets, within the context of One Health, and serum samples collected from cats and dogs were reactive by indirect immunofluorescence assay. CONCLUSIONS Even though the frequency of bartonellosis in Brazil is unknown, physicians should be aware of the possibility of blood culture-negative infective endocarditis caused by Bartonella, particularly in patients with weight loss, kidney changes, and epidemiological history for domestic animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan Gonçalves-Oliveira
- Laboratório de Hantaviroses E Rickettsioses, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz (IOC/FIOCRUZ), Manguinhos, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil.
| | - Paulo Vieira Damasco
- Faculdade de Ciências Médicas, Time de Endocardite Do Hospital Universitário Pedro Ernesto, Universidade do Estado do Rio de Janeiro (HUPE/UERJ), Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
- Escola de Medicina e Cirurgia, Departamento de Doenças Infecciosas e Parasitárias, Universidade do Federal do Estado do Rio de Janeiro (DIP/UNIRIO), Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Matheus Ribeiro da S Assis
- Laboratório de Hantaviroses E Rickettsioses, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz (IOC/FIOCRUZ), Manguinhos, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Dominique E Freitas
- Laboratório de Hantaviroses E Rickettsioses, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz (IOC/FIOCRUZ), Manguinhos, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Adonai Alvino Pessoa Junior
- Laboratório de Hantaviroses E Rickettsioses, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz (IOC/FIOCRUZ), Manguinhos, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Luiza S de Sousa
- Escola de Medicina e Cirurgia, Departamento de Doenças Infecciosas e Parasitárias, Universidade do Federal do Estado do Rio de Janeiro (DIP/UNIRIO), Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Nicollas G Rodrigues
- Faculdade de Ciências Médicas, Time de Endocardite Do Hospital Universitário Pedro Ernesto, Universidade do Estado do Rio de Janeiro (HUPE/UERJ), Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Paula H Damasco
- Faculdade de Ciências Médicas, Time de Endocardite Do Hospital Universitário Pedro Ernesto, Universidade do Estado do Rio de Janeiro (HUPE/UERJ), Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Pedro F Ribeiro
- Faculdade de Ciências Médicas, Time de Endocardite Do Hospital Universitário Pedro Ernesto, Universidade do Estado do Rio de Janeiro (HUPE/UERJ), Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Giovanna F Barbosa
- Faculdade de Ciências Médicas, Time de Endocardite Do Hospital Universitário Pedro Ernesto, Universidade do Estado do Rio de Janeiro (HUPE/UERJ), Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | | | - Jeferson F Guedes
- Serviço de Cardiologia e Ecocardiografia, Hospital Municipal Miguel Couto (HMMC-RJ), Leblon, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Henrique M da Rocha Coutinho
- Faculdade de Ciências Médicas, Time de Endocardite Do Hospital Universitário Pedro Ernesto, Universidade do Estado do Rio de Janeiro (HUPE/UERJ), Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Kalil Madi
- Diretoria Técnica do Círculo Brasileiro de Patologia, Vila Isabel, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Elba R Sampaio de Lemos
- Laboratório de Hantaviroses E Rickettsioses, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz (IOC/FIOCRUZ), Manguinhos, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
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11
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Köseoğlu AE, Can H, Güvendi M, Karakavuk M, Manyatsi P, Erkunt Alak S, Değirmenci Döşkaya A, Gül A, Döşkaya M, Gürüz AY, Ün C. Molecular prevalence and genetic diversity of Bartonella spp. in stray cats of İzmir, Turkey. Parasit Vectors 2022; 15:305. [PMID: 36038877 PMCID: PMC9422166 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-022-05431-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2022] [Accepted: 08/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Bartonella spp. are vector-borne pathogens that cause zoonotic infections in humans. One of the most well-known of these is cat-scratch disease caused by Bartonella henselae and Bartonella clarridgeiae, with cats being the major reservoir for these two bacteria. Izmir, Turkey is home to many stray cats, but their potential role as a reservoir for the transmission of Bartonella to humans has not been investigated yet. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate the prevalence of Bartonella species and their genetic diversity in stray cats living in Izmir. Methods Molecular prevalence of Bartonella spp. in stray cats (n = 1012) was investigated using a PCR method targeting the 16S-23S internal transcribed spacer gene (ITS), species identification was performed by sequencing and genetic diversity was evaluated by haplotype analysis. Results Analysis of the DNA extracted from 1012 blood samples collected from stray cats revealed that 122 samples were Bartonella-positive, which is a molecular prevalence of 12.05% (122/1012; 95% confidence interval [CI] 10.1–14.2%). Among the Bartonella-positive specimens, 100 (100/122; 81.96%) were successfully sequenced, and B. henselae (45/100; 45%), B. clarridgeiae (29/100; 29%) and Bartonella koehlerae (26/100; 26%) were identified by BLAST and phylogenetic analyses. High genetic diversity was detected in B. clarridgeiae with 19 haplotypes, followed by B. henselae (14 haplotypes) and B. koehlerae (8 haplotypes). Conclusions This comprehensive study analyzing a large number of samples collected from stray cats showed that Bartonella species are an important source of infection to humans living in Izmir. In addition, high genetic diversity was detected within each Bartonella species. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13071-022-05431-3.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmet Efe Köseoğlu
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Faculty of Engineering and Natural Sciences, Biruni University, Istanbul, Turkey.,Department of Biology Molecular Biology Section, Faculty of Science, Ege University, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Hüseyin Can
- Department of Biology Molecular Biology Section, Faculty of Science, Ege University, Izmir, Turkey.
| | - Mervenur Güvendi
- Department of Biology Molecular Biology Section, Faculty of Science, Ege University, Izmir, Turkey
| | | | - Pumla Manyatsi
- Department of Biology Molecular Biology Section, Faculty of Science, Ege University, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Sedef Erkunt Alak
- Department of Biology Molecular Biology Section, Faculty of Science, Ege University, Izmir, Turkey
| | | | - Aytül Gül
- Department of Bioengineering, Faculty of Engineering, Ege University, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Mert Döşkaya
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Ege University, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Adnan Yüksel Gürüz
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Ege University, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Cemal Ün
- Department of Biology Molecular Biology Section, Faculty of Science, Ege University, Izmir, Turkey
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12
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Bartonella, Rickettsia, Babesia, and Hepatozoon Species in Fleas (Siphonaptera) Infesting Small Mammals of Slovakia (Central Europe). Pathogens 2022; 11:pathogens11080886. [PMID: 36015007 PMCID: PMC9413308 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens11080886] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2022] [Revised: 08/03/2022] [Accepted: 08/04/2022] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Fleas (Siphonaptera) as obligate, blood-feeding ectoparasites are, together with ticks, hosted by small mammals and can transmit causative agents of serious infections. This study aimed to determine and characterize the presence and genetic diversity of Bartonella, Rickettsia, and apicomplexan parasites (Babesia, Hepatozoon) in fleas feeding on small mammals from three different habitat types (suburban, natural, and rural) in Slovakia. The most common pathogen in the examined fleas was Bartonella spp. (33.98%; 95% CI: 30.38-37.58), followed by Rickettsia spp. (19.1%; 95% CI: 16.25-22.24) and apicomplexan parasites (4.36%; 95% CI: 2.81-5.91). Bartonella strains belonging to B. taylorii, B. grahamii, B. elizabethae, Bartonella sp. wbs11, and B. rochalimae clades were identified in Ctenophthalmus agyrtes, C. congener, C. assimilis, C. sciurorum, C. solutus, C. bisoctodentatus, Palaeopsylla similis, Megabothris turbidus, and Nosopsyllus fasciatus within all habitats. The presence of Rickettsia helvetica, R. monacensis, and rickettsiae, belonging to the R. akari and R. felis clusters, and endosymbionts with a 96-100% identity with the Rickettsia endosymbiont of Nosopsyllus laeviceps laeviceps were also revealed in C. agyrtes, C. solutus, C. assimilis, C. congener, M. turbidus, and N. fasciatus. Babesia and Hepatozoon DNA was detected in the fleas from all habitat types. Hepatozoon sp. was detected in C. agyrtes, C. assimilis, and M. turbidus, while Babesia microti was identified from C. agyrtes, C. congener, and P. similis. The present study demonstrated the presence of zoonotic pathogens in fleas, parasitizing the wild-living small mammals of southwestern and central Slovakia and widens our knowledge of the ecology and genomic diversity of Bartonella, Rickettsia, Babesia, and Hepatozoon.
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Torrejón E, Sanches GS, Moerbeck L, Santos L, André MR, Domingos A, Antunes S. Molecular Survey of Bartonella Species in Stray Cats and Dogs, Humans, and Questing Ticks from Portugal. Pathogens 2022; 11:pathogens11070749. [PMID: 35889995 PMCID: PMC9323395 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens11070749] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2022] [Revised: 06/24/2022] [Accepted: 06/27/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Bartonella spp. comprises emergent and re-emergent fastidious Gram-negative bacteria with worldwide distribution. Cats are the main reservoir hosts for Bartonella henselae and dogs represent opportunistic hosts for the bacteria. Even though ticks may also play a role in transmission, their competence as vectors for Bartonella spp. has not been totally understood. Considering only a few studies had a focus on screening Bartonella in animals, humans and ectoparasites in Portugal, this study aimed to address the molecular occurrence of Bartonella sp. in 123 stray cats, 25 stray dogs, 30 humans from Lisbon and 236 questing ticks within the country. Using a qPCR targeting the nuoG gene, it was possible to detect Bartonella sp. DNA on 20.32% of cat samples (25/123). From these positive samples, 13 sequences were characterized as B. henselae, 11 as B. clarridgeiae and 1 presented co-infection with both species. The absolute quantification of nuoGBartonella DNA in sampled cats ranged from 2.78 × 10 to 1.03 × 105 copies/µL. The sampled dogs, humans and ticks were negative. These results showed that B. henselae and B. clarridgeiae are circulating in stray cats from Lisbon. Additional and more extended studies should be conducted to determine the impact of such infections on humans, particularly those in constant and direct contact with cats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Estefania Torrejón
- Instituto de Higiene e Medicina Tropical, Universidade Nova de Lisboa (IHMT-UNL), Rua da Junqueira 100, 1349-008 Lisbon, Portugal; (E.T.); (G.S.S.); (L.M.); (L.S.); (S.A.)
| | - Gustavo Seron Sanches
- Instituto de Higiene e Medicina Tropical, Universidade Nova de Lisboa (IHMT-UNL), Rua da Junqueira 100, 1349-008 Lisbon, Portugal; (E.T.); (G.S.S.); (L.M.); (L.S.); (S.A.)
- Escola de Ciências da Vida, Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Paraná, Rua Imaculada Conceição 1155, Curitiba 80215-901, PR, Brazil
| | - Leonardo Moerbeck
- Instituto de Higiene e Medicina Tropical, Universidade Nova de Lisboa (IHMT-UNL), Rua da Junqueira 100, 1349-008 Lisbon, Portugal; (E.T.); (G.S.S.); (L.M.); (L.S.); (S.A.)
- Global Health and Tropical Medicine, Instituto de Higiene e Medicina Tropical, Universidade Nova de Lisboa (GHTM-IHMT-UNL), Rua da Junqueira 100, 1349-008 Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Lenira Santos
- Instituto de Higiene e Medicina Tropical, Universidade Nova de Lisboa (IHMT-UNL), Rua da Junqueira 100, 1349-008 Lisbon, Portugal; (E.T.); (G.S.S.); (L.M.); (L.S.); (S.A.)
| | - Marcos Rogério André
- Departamento de Patologia Veterinária, Universidade Estadual Paulista (FCAV-UNESP), Via de Acesso Paulo Donato Castellane, s/n, Jaboticabal 14884-900, SP, Brazil;
| | - Ana Domingos
- Instituto de Higiene e Medicina Tropical, Universidade Nova de Lisboa (IHMT-UNL), Rua da Junqueira 100, 1349-008 Lisbon, Portugal; (E.T.); (G.S.S.); (L.M.); (L.S.); (S.A.)
- Global Health and Tropical Medicine, Instituto de Higiene e Medicina Tropical, Universidade Nova de Lisboa (GHTM-IHMT-UNL), Rua da Junqueira 100, 1349-008 Lisbon, Portugal
- Correspondence:
| | - Sandra Antunes
- Instituto de Higiene e Medicina Tropical, Universidade Nova de Lisboa (IHMT-UNL), Rua da Junqueira 100, 1349-008 Lisbon, Portugal; (E.T.); (G.S.S.); (L.M.); (L.S.); (S.A.)
- Global Health and Tropical Medicine, Instituto de Higiene e Medicina Tropical, Universidade Nova de Lisboa (GHTM-IHMT-UNL), Rua da Junqueira 100, 1349-008 Lisbon, Portugal
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The Passenger Domain of Bartonella bacilliformis BafA Promotes Endothelial Cell Angiogenesis via the VEGF Receptor Signaling Pathway. mSphere 2022; 7:e0008122. [PMID: 35379004 PMCID: PMC9044958 DOI: 10.1128/msphere.00081-22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Bartonella bacilliformis is a Gram-negative bacterial pathogen that provokes pathological angiogenesis and causes Carrion’s disease, a neglected tropical disease restricted to South America. Little is known about how B. bacilliformis facilitates vasoproliferation resulting in hemangioma in the skin in verruga peruana, the chronic phase of Carrion’s disease. Here, we demonstrate that B. bacilliformis extracellularly secrets a passenger domain of the autotransporter BafA exhibiting proangiogenic activity. The B. bacilliformis-derived BafA passenger domain (BafABba) increased the number of human umbilical endothelial cells (HUVECs) and promoted tube-like morphogenesis. Neutralizing antibody against BafABba detected the BafA derivatives from the culture supernatant of B. bacilliformis and inhibited the infection-mediated hyperproliferation of HUVECs. Moreover, stimulation with BafABba promoted phosphorylation of vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 2 (VEGFR2) and extracellular-signal-regulated kinase 1/2 in HUVECs. Suppression of VEGFR2 by anti-VEGFR2 antibody or RNA interference reduced the sensitivity of cells to BafABba. In addition, surface plasmon resonance analysis confirmed that BafABba directly interacts with VEGFR2 with lower affinity than VEGF or Bartonella henselae-derived BafA. These findings indicate that BafABba acts as a VEGFR2 agonist analogous to the previously identified B. henselae- and Bartonella quintana-derived BafA proteins despite the low sequence similarity. The identification of a proangiogenic factor produced by B. bacilliformis that directly stimulates endothelial cells provides an important insight into the pathophysiology of verruga peruana. IMPORTANCEBartonella bacilliformis causes life-threatening bacteremia or dermal eruption known as Carrion’s disease in South America. During infection, B. bacilliformis promotes endothelial cell proliferation and the angiogenic process, but the underlying molecular mechanism has not been well understood. We show that B. bacilliformis induces vasoproliferation and angiogenesis by producing the proangiogenic autotransporter BafA. As the cellular/molecular basis for angiogenesis, BafA stimulates the signaling pathway of vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 2 (VEGFR2). Identification of functional BafA protein from B. bacilliformis in addition to B. henselae and B. quintana, the causes of cat scratch disease and trench fever, raises the possibility that BafA is a common virulence factor for human-pathogenic Bartonella.
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Demoncheaux JP, Medkour H, Louni M, Laugier L, Pasqualini C, Fenollar F, Davoust B, Mediannikov O. Detection of Potential Zoonotic Bartonella Species in African Giant Rats (Cricetomys gambianus) and Fleas from an Urban Area in Senegal. Microorganisms 2022; 10:microorganisms10030489. [PMID: 35336065 PMCID: PMC8953472 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms10030489] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2021] [Revised: 02/06/2022] [Accepted: 02/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Bartonellae are bacteria associated with mammals and their ectoparasites. Rodents often host different species of Bartonella. The aim of this study was to investigate the presence of Bartonella spp. in African giant pouched rats (Cricetomys gambianus) and their ectoparasites in Dakar, Senegal. In 2012, 20 rats were caught, and their fleas were identified. DNA was extracted from 170 selected fleas and qPCR was carried out to detect Bartonella spp. Subsequently, a Bartonella culture was performed from the rat blood samples and the isolated strains (16S rRNA, rpoB, ftsZ and ITS3) were genotyped. A total of 1117 fleas were collected from 19 rats and identified as Xenopsylla cheopis, the tropical rat flea. Bartonella DNA was detected in 148 of 170 selected fleas (87.1%). In addition, Bartonella strains were isolated from the blood of 17 rats (85%). According to Bartonella gene-sequence-based criteria for species definition, the isolated strains were identified as B. massiliensis (four strains) and two potential new species related to the zoonotic B. elizabethae. In this paper, these potentially new species are provisionally called Candidatus Bartonella militaris (11 strains) and Candidatus Bartonella affinis (two strains) until their description has been completed. Cricetomys gambianus and its fleas could constitute a public health risk in Dakar due to the high prevalence of Bartonella infection reported.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jean-Paul Demoncheaux
- Animal Epidemiology Expert Group of the Military Health Service, 37100 Tours, France; (J.-P.D.); (B.D.)
- Military Health Service, French Armed Forces in Senegal, Dakar 18524, Senegal;
| | - Hacene Medkour
- IRD, AP-HM, MEPHI, Aix Marseille University, 13005 Marseille, France; (H.M.); (M.L.)
- IHU Méditerranée Infection, 13005 Marseille, France; (L.L.); (F.F.)
| | - Meriem Louni
- IRD, AP-HM, MEPHI, Aix Marseille University, 13005 Marseille, France; (H.M.); (M.L.)
- IHU Méditerranée Infection, 13005 Marseille, France; (L.L.); (F.F.)
| | - Laurie Laugier
- IHU Méditerranée Infection, 13005 Marseille, France; (L.L.); (F.F.)
- IRD, AP-HM, SSA, VITROME, Aix Marseille University, 13005 Marseille, France
| | | | - Florence Fenollar
- IHU Méditerranée Infection, 13005 Marseille, France; (L.L.); (F.F.)
- IRD, AP-HM, SSA, VITROME, Aix Marseille University, 13005 Marseille, France
| | - Bernard Davoust
- Animal Epidemiology Expert Group of the Military Health Service, 37100 Tours, France; (J.-P.D.); (B.D.)
- IRD, AP-HM, MEPHI, Aix Marseille University, 13005 Marseille, France; (H.M.); (M.L.)
- IHU Méditerranée Infection, 13005 Marseille, France; (L.L.); (F.F.)
| | - Oleg Mediannikov
- IRD, AP-HM, MEPHI, Aix Marseille University, 13005 Marseille, France; (H.M.); (M.L.)
- IHU Méditerranée Infection, 13005 Marseille, France; (L.L.); (F.F.)
- Correspondence:
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Bartonella henselae Recombinant Pap31 for the Diagnosis of Canine and Human Bartonelloses. Pathogens 2022; 11:pathogens11020182. [PMID: 35215127 PMCID: PMC8877253 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens11020182] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2021] [Revised: 01/24/2022] [Accepted: 01/25/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Bartonella spp. comprise a genus of Gram-negative alphaproteobacteria that are slow growing, fastidious, and facultative intracellular pathogens with zoonotic potential. Immunofluorescent antibody assays (IFAs), Western blot (WB), and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISAs), the frequently used modalities for the serological diagnosis of canine and human Bartonelloses, generate numerous false negative results. Therefore, the development of a reliable serodiagnostic assay for Bartonelloses is of clinical and epidemiological importance. Pap31, a heme binding surface protein of B. henselae, is associated with bacterial adhesion and related to bacterial colonization. To our knowledge, B. henselae Pap31 and its fragments (N-terminal (NTD), middle (MD), and C-terminal (CTD) domains) have not been investigated for the serodiagnosis of canine and human Bartonelloses. In this study, we evaluate the diagnostic utility of B. henselae recombinant whole Pap31 (rPap31) and Pap31 fragments by ELISA using sera from 70 dogs (36 Bartonella spp. IFA-positive (naturally infected), and 34 Bartonella spp. IFA- and PCR-negative (control dogs)) and 36 humans (18 Bartonella spp. IFA-positive (naturally infected) and 18 controls)). In the dogs, the area under the curve (AUC) score of recombinant whole Pap31 was 0.714 with a sensitivity of 42% and specificity of 94% at an OD cutoff value of 0.8955. Among the evaluated recombinant Pap31 proteins for the diagnosis of canine Bartonelloses, rPap31-NTD yielded the highest AUC score of 0.792 (95% CI 0.688–0.895) with a sensitivity of 44% and specificity of 100% at a cutoff value of 1.198. In concordance with this finding, rPap31-NTD also had the highest AUC score of 0.747 (95% CI 0.581–0.913) among the Pap31 recombinant proteins for the diagnosis of human Bartonelloses, with 39% sensitivity and 94% specificity at a cutoff value of 1.366. Recombinant whole Pap31 (rPap31) resulted in 72% sensitivity and 61% specificity at a cutoff value of 0.215 for human Bartonelloses. Due to either low sensitivity or questionable specificity, our findings indicate that recombinant Pap31 and the selected fragments may not be appropriate diagnostic targets in detecting anti-Bartonella antibodies in Bartonella-infected dogs and humans. The findings from this study can be used to further assess the antigenicity and immunogenicity of B. henselae Pap31 as a diagnostic target.
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Raimundo JM, Guimarães A, Amaro GM, Silva ATD, Rodrigues CJBC, Santos HA, Lemos ERSD, Favacho ARDM, Baldani CD. Prevalence of Bartonella species in shelter cats and their ectoparasites in southeastern Brazil. REVISTA BRASILEIRA DE PARASITOLOGIA VETERINARIA = BRAZILIAN JOURNAL OF VETERINARY PARASITOLOGY : ORGAO OFICIAL DO COLEGIO BRASILEIRO DE PARASITOLOGIA VETERINARIA 2022; 31:e014221. [PMID: 35195184 PMCID: PMC9901869 DOI: 10.1590/s1984-29612022006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2021] [Accepted: 12/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Feline Bartonella can be transmitted to humans through cat scratches or bites, and between cats, by the flea Ctenocephalides felis. The study was carried out in order to investigate the occurrence of Bartonella DNA in cats living in shelters and their ectoparasites and the relationship between the infection status of cats and ectoparasites they host. Bartonella DNA was detected in 47.8% of the cat blood samples, 18.3% of C. felis fleas, 13.3% of flea egg pools and 12.5% of lice pools. B. henselae and B. clarridgeiae DNA were detected in cat fleas, while B. henselae, B. clarridgeiae and B. koehlerae were found in blood samples from bacteremic cats. Cats infested by positive ectoparasites showed approximately twice the odds of being infected. Our results indicate that shelter cats have high prevalence of Bartonella species that are known to be human pathogens. This highlights the importance of controlling infestations by ectoparasites to avoid cat and human infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juliana Macedo Raimundo
- Laboratório de Patologia Clínica Veterinária, Departamento de Medicina e Cirurgia Veterinária, Instituto de Veterinária, Universidade Federal Rural do Rio de Janeiro - UFRRJ, Seropédica, RJ, Brasil
| | - Andresa Guimarães
- Laboratório de Patologia Clínica Veterinária, Departamento de Medicina e Cirurgia Veterinária, Instituto de Veterinária, Universidade Federal Rural do Rio de Janeiro - UFRRJ, Seropédica, RJ, Brasil
| | - Gleice Marques Amaro
- Laboratório de Patologia Clínica Veterinária, Departamento de Medicina e Cirurgia Veterinária, Instituto de Veterinária, Universidade Federal Rural do Rio de Janeiro - UFRRJ, Seropédica, RJ, Brasil
| | - Aline Tonussi da Silva
- Laboratório de Patologia Clínica Veterinária, Departamento de Medicina e Cirurgia Veterinária, Instituto de Veterinária, Universidade Federal Rural do Rio de Janeiro - UFRRJ, Seropédica, RJ, Brasil
| | - Caio Junior Balduino Coutinho Rodrigues
- Laboratório de Controle Microbiano, Departamento de Parasitologia Animal, Instituto de Veterinária, Universidade Federal Rural do Rio de Janeiro - UFRRJ, Seropédica, RJ, Brasil
| | - Huarrisson Azevedo Santos
- Laboratório de Sanidade Avícola, Departamento de Epidemiologia e Saúde Pública, Instituto de Veterinária, Universidade Federal Rural do Rio de Janeiro - UFRRJ, Seropédica, RJ, Brasil
| | | | | | - Cristiane Divan Baldani
- Laboratório de Patologia Clínica Veterinária, Departamento de Medicina e Cirurgia Veterinária, Instituto de Veterinária, Universidade Federal Rural do Rio de Janeiro - UFRRJ, Seropédica, RJ, Brasil
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Gonçalves JM, Cardoso TL, de Freitas SB, Woloski R, Neto ACPS, da Silva Pinto L, de Lemos ES, Hartwig DD. In silico analyses and design of chimeric proteins containing epitopes of Bartonella henselae antigens for the control of cat scratch disease. Appl Microbiol Biotechnol 2022; 106:8079-8091. [PMID: 36383248 PMCID: PMC9667432 DOI: 10.1007/s00253-022-12269-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2022] [Revised: 10/24/2022] [Accepted: 10/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Bartonella henselae is a Gram-negative bacterium that causes cat scratch disease (CSD), as well as bacteremia, endocarditis, and other clinical presentations. CSD remains one of the most common infections caused by bacteria in the genus Bartonella, and it is transmitted to humans through a scratch or cat bite. Vaccination and more efficient diagnostic methods would represent a promising and sustainable alternative measure for CSD control in humans and animals. Here, we described the in silico analyses and design of three recombinant chimeric proteins (rC1, rC2, and rC3), for use in the control of CSD. The chimeras were constructed with epitopes identified from the sequences of the GroEL, 17 kDa, P26, BadA, Pap31, OMP 89, and OMP 43, previously described as the most important B. henselae antigens. The rC1, rC2, and rC3 were expressed and purified using a heterologous system based on Escherichia coli and reacted with antibodies present in the sera of humans naturally infected. The chimeric proteins were used to immunize mice using Freund adjuvant, and the humoral immune response was evaluated. Animals immunized with rC1 and rC3 showed a significant IgG antibodies response from the 28th day (P < 0.05), and the animals immunized with the rC2 from the 35th day (P < 0.05) remained until the 56th day of experimentation, with a titer of 1:3200 (P < 0.05), 1:1600 (P < 0.05) and 1:1600 (P < 0.05) from rC1, rC2, and rC3, respectively. Significant production of IgA and IgG1 isotype was detected in animals immunized with rC1 and rC2 proteins. Additionally, analysis using 13 serum samples from naturally infected patients showed that the proteins are recognized by antibodies present in sera, reinforcing the possibility of using these chimeras for CSD control. KEY POINTS: • The recombinant chimeras were expressed in Escherichia coli with 37 kDa (rC1), 35 kDa (rC2), and 38 kDa (rC3). • Animals immunized with rC1, rC2, and rC3 showed significant antibody response. • The chimeras were recognized by the sera of naturally infected patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jênifer Malheiros Gonçalves
- Laboratório de Bacteriologia E Bioensaios (LaBBio), Departamento de Microbiologia E Parasitologia, Instituto de Biologia, Universidade Federal de Pelotas, Capão Do Leão, Rio Grande Do Sul Brazil ,Núcleo de Biotecnologia, Centro de Desenvolvimento Tecnológico (CDTec), Universidade Federal Pelotas, Capão Do Leão, Rio Grande Do Sul Brazil
| | - Thayná Laner Cardoso
- Laboratório de Bacteriologia E Bioensaios (LaBBio), Departamento de Microbiologia E Parasitologia, Instituto de Biologia, Universidade Federal de Pelotas, Capão Do Leão, Rio Grande Do Sul Brazil
| | - Stella Buchhorn de Freitas
- Laboratório de Bacteriologia E Bioensaios (LaBBio), Departamento de Microbiologia E Parasitologia, Instituto de Biologia, Universidade Federal de Pelotas, Capão Do Leão, Rio Grande Do Sul Brazil ,Núcleo de Biotecnologia, Centro de Desenvolvimento Tecnológico (CDTec), Universidade Federal Pelotas, Capão Do Leão, Rio Grande Do Sul Brazil
| | - Rafael Woloski
- Núcleo de Biotecnologia, Centro de Desenvolvimento Tecnológico (CDTec), Universidade Federal Pelotas, Capão Do Leão, Rio Grande Do Sul Brazil
| | - Amilton Clair Pinto Seixas Neto
- Laboratório de Bacteriologia E Bioensaios (LaBBio), Departamento de Microbiologia E Parasitologia, Instituto de Biologia, Universidade Federal de Pelotas, Capão Do Leão, Rio Grande Do Sul Brazil
| | - Luciano da Silva Pinto
- Núcleo de Biotecnologia, Centro de Desenvolvimento Tecnológico (CDTec), Universidade Federal Pelotas, Capão Do Leão, Rio Grande Do Sul Brazil
| | - Elba Sampaio de Lemos
- Laboratório de Hantaviroses E Rickettsioses (LHR), Fundação Oswaldo Cruz (FIOCRUZ), Rio de Janeiro, RJ Brazil
| | - Daiane Drawanz Hartwig
- Laboratório de Bacteriologia E Bioensaios (LaBBio), Departamento de Microbiologia E Parasitologia, Instituto de Biologia, Universidade Federal de Pelotas, Capão Do Leão, Rio Grande Do Sul Brazil ,Núcleo de Biotecnologia, Centro de Desenvolvimento Tecnológico (CDTec), Universidade Federal Pelotas, Capão Do Leão, Rio Grande Do Sul Brazil ,Biology Institute, Federal University of Pelotas, Pelotas, RS CEP 96010–900 Brazil
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19
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Chaorattanakawee S, Wofford RN, Takhampunya R, Katherine Poole-Smith B, Boldbaatar B, Lkhagvatseren S, Altantogtokh D, Musih E, Nymadawa P, Davidson S, Hertz J, Fiorenzano J, Gray GC, von Fricken ME. Tracking tick-borne diseases in Mongolian livestock using next generation sequencing (NGS). Ticks Tick Borne Dis 2022; 13:101845. [PMID: 34689003 PMCID: PMC8665119 DOI: 10.1016/j.ttbdis.2021.101845] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2021] [Revised: 09/21/2021] [Accepted: 09/23/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
The livestock industry in Mongolia accounts for 24% of national revenue, with one third of the population maintaining a pastoral lifestyle. This close connection between Mongolian population and livestock is a major concern for pathogen transfer, especially given the increase in vector-borne diseases globally. This study examines blood samples from livestock to assess the prevalence of tick-borne bacterial infections across three provinces in Mongolia (Dornogovi, Selenge, Töv). Whole blood samples from 243 livestock (cattle=38, camel=11, goat=85, horse=22, sheep=87) were analyzed with 16S metagenomics next-generation sequencing (NGS) to screen for bacterial pathogens. Positive-NGS samples for Anaplasma, Bartonella, Ehrlichia, Francisella, Leptospira, and Rickettsia were confirmed by conventional PCR and DNA sequencing. Prevalence rates of Anaplasma, Bartonella, and Ehrlichia were 57.6%, 12.8%, and 0.4%, respectively. A significant difference in the prevalence of Anaplasma spp. in livestock by province was observed, with a higher prevalence in Selenge (74.2%, p<0.001) and Töv (64.2% p = 0.006) compared to the semi-arid region of Dornogovi (39.8%). In contrast, no association was observed in Bartonella prevalence by provinces. All Anaplasma sequences (N = 139) were characterized as A. ovis. For Bartonella species characterization, phylogenetic analyses of gltA and rpoB genes identified three Bartonella species including B. bovis, B. melophagi and Candidatus B. ovis. Bartonella bovis was detected in all 22-positive cattle, while B. melophagi and Candidatus B. ovis were found in four and three sheep, respectively. This study identifies a high prevalence of tick-borne pathogens within the livestock population and to our knowledge, is the first time NGS methods have been used to explore tick-borne diseases in Mongolia. Further research is needed in Mongolia to better understand the clinical and economic burdens associated with tick-borne diseases in both livestock and pastoral herder populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suwanna Chaorattanakawee
- Department of Entomology, US Army Medical Directorate of the Armed Forces Research Institute of Medical Sciences (USAMD-AFRIMS), Bangkok, Thailand; Department of Parasitology and Entomology, Faculty of Public Health, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Rachel N Wofford
- Department of Global and Community Health, George Mason University, Fairfax, VA, USA
| | - Ratree Takhampunya
- Department of Entomology, US Army Medical Directorate of the Armed Forces Research Institute of Medical Sciences (USAMD-AFRIMS), Bangkok, Thailand
| | - B Katherine Poole-Smith
- Department of Entomology, US Army Medical Directorate of the Armed Forces Research Institute of Medical Sciences (USAMD-AFRIMS), Bangkok, Thailand
| | | | | | | | - Elisha Musih
- Department of Global and Community Health, George Mason University, Fairfax, VA, USA
| | | | - Silas Davidson
- Department of Entomology, US Army Medical Directorate of the Armed Forces Research Institute of Medical Sciences (USAMD-AFRIMS), Bangkok, Thailand; Department of Chemistry and Life Science, US Military Academy, West Point, NY, USA
| | - Jeffrey Hertz
- Naval Medical Research Unit TWO (NAMRU-2), Sembawang, Singapore
| | - Jodi Fiorenzano
- Naval Medical Research Unit TWO (NAMRU-2), Sembawang, Singapore
| | - Gregory C Gray
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Duke Global Health Institute, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Michael E von Fricken
- Department of Global and Community Health, George Mason University, Fairfax, VA, USA.
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20
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Saengsawang P, Morand S, Desquesnes M, Yangtara S, Inpankaew T. Molecular Detection of Bartonella Species in Rodents Residing in Urban and Suburban Areas of Central Thailand. Microorganisms 2021; 9:microorganisms9122588. [PMID: 34946189 PMCID: PMC8704634 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms9122588] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2021] [Revised: 12/11/2021] [Accepted: 12/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Bartonella spp. are Gram-negative zoonotic bacteria transmitted to humans via various blood-sucking arthropods. Rodents have been identified as reservoir hosts of several zoonotic pathogens, including Bartonella spp. In Thailand, studies of Bartonella spp. in rodents from urban areas are limited; thus, a study in this area is necessary. The objectives of this study were to detect Bartonella spp. in rodents in Thailand and to compare the species’ distribution across different areas. In total, 70 blood samples from rodents in urban and suburban areas were tested for Bartonella spp. using a conventional polymerase chain reaction that targeted the citrate synthase (gltA) gene. All Bartonella-positive sequences were analyzed using polymorphism in order to build a phylogenetic tree. Approximately 38% of the rodents studied contained Bartonella DNA. Both Rattus exulans (Pacific rat) and R. tanezumi (Asian house rat) contained Bartonella spp. Four species of Bartonella were detected in blood samples: B. tribocorum, B. phoceensis, B. grahamii, and B. rattimassiliensis. In addition, eight Pacific rats contained the B. kosoyi–B. tribocorum complex. Bartonella phoceensis and B. tribocorum–B. kosoyi complexes were found in a specific habitat (p < 0.05). Interestingly, only seven haplotypes were identified in the sequences analyzed, and only haplotype A was found in both rodent species. Finally, a monitoring program for zoonotic Bartonella infection, especially the B. kosoyi–B. tribocorum complex, B. phoceensis, B. grahamii, and B. rattimassiliensis should be established, especially in high-risk areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Phirabhat Saengsawang
- Akkhraratchakumari Veterinary College, Walailak University, Nakhon Si Thammarat 80161, Thailand; or
| | - Serge Morand
- CNRS ISEM—CIRAD-ASTRE, Montpellier University, 34090 Montpellier, France;
- Faculty of Veterinary Technology, Kasetsart University, Bangkok 10900, Thailand
| | - Marc Desquesnes
- InterTryp, Université de Montpellier CIRAD-IRD, 34090 Montpellier, France;
- Ecole Nationale Vétérinaire de Toulouse (ENVT), 31300 Toulouse, France
| | - Sarawut Yangtara
- Department of Companion Animal Clinical Science, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kasetsart University, Bangkok 10900, Thailand;
| | - Tawin Inpankaew
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kasetsart University, Bangkok 10900, Thailand
- Correspondence:
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21
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Morelli S, Diakou A, Di Cesare A, Colombo M, Traversa D. Canine and Feline Parasitology: Analogies, Differences, and Relevance for Human Health. Clin Microbiol Rev 2021; 34:e0026620. [PMID: 34378954 PMCID: PMC8404700 DOI: 10.1128/cmr.00266-20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Cats and dogs are treated as family members by most pet owners. Therefore, a high quality of veterinary care and preventive medicine is imperative for animal health and welfare and for the protection of humans from zoonotic pathogens. There is a general perception of cats being treated as "small dogs," especially in the field of clinical parasitology. As a result, several important differences between the two animal species are not taken into proper consideration and are often overlooked. Dogs and cats are profoundly different under evolutionary, biological, ethological, behavioral, and immunological standpoints. These differences impact clinical features, diagnosis, and control of canine and feline parasites and transmission risk for humans. This review outlines the most common parasitoses and vector-borne diseases of dogs and cats, with a focus on major convergences and divergences, and discusses parasites that have (i) evolved based on different preys for dogs and cats, (ii) adapted due to different immunological or behavioral animal profiles, and (iii) developed more similarities than differences in canine and feline infections and associated diseases. Differences, similarities, and peculiarities of canine and feline parasitology are herein reviewed in three macrosections: (i) carnivorism, vegetarianism, anatomy, genetics, and parasites, (ii) evolutionary adaptation of nematodes, including veterinary reconsideration and zoonotic importance, and (iii) behavior and immune system driving ectoparasites and transmitted diseases. Emphasis is given to provide further steps toward a more accurate evaluation of canine and feline parasitology in a changing world in terms of public health relevance and One Health approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simone Morelli
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Teramo, Teramo, Italy
| | - Anastasia Diakou
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Angela Di Cesare
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Teramo, Teramo, Italy
| | | | - Donato Traversa
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Teramo, Teramo, Italy
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22
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Lozano-Sardaneta YN, Soto-Olguín NJ, Rodríguez-Rojas JJ, Sánchez-Montes S, Rebollar-Téllez EA, Becker I. Molecular Detection of Bartonella sp. in Psathyromyia shannoni and Lutzomyia cruciata From Northeastern Mexico. FRONTIERS IN TROPICAL DISEASES 2021. [DOI: 10.3389/fitd.2021.780808] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Phlebotomine sand flies are vectors of Leishmania spp., Bartonella bacilliformis, and several arboviruses worldwide. In Mexico, the presence of Bartonella species is associated sporadically with arthropods and little is known on the diversity of insects that could be incriminated with its transmission. The aim of this study was to perform a molecular detection of Bartonella DNA in sand fly species collected in northeastern Mexico. Sand flies were collected at the states of Nuevo Leon and Tamaulipas from June to August 2010, using 16 light traps per night. Sand fly species were morphologically identified, and for Bartonella detection, we amplified ~378 bp of the citrate synthase gene (gltA). DNA sequences were compared in a phylogenetic reconstruction based on maximum likelihood. A total of 532 specimens from seven sand fly species were morphologically identified, where 11 specimens from Tamaulipas tested positive for the presence of a new lineage of Bartonella sp. associated with Psathyromyia shannoni and Lutzomyia cruciata. This work represents the second record of Bartonella-associated with sand flies outside of the endemic area of Carrion’s disease. More studies are necessary to understand their life cycle, transmission dynamics, and their relationship with sand fly species.
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23
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Lashnits E, Thatcher B, Carruth A, Mestek A, Buch J, Beall M, Neupane P, Chandrashekar R, Breitschwerdt EB. Bartonella spp. seroepidemiology and associations with clinicopathologic findings in dogs in the United States. J Vet Intern Med 2021; 36:116-125. [PMID: 34788481 PMCID: PMC8783365 DOI: 10.1111/jvim.16311] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2020] [Revised: 10/28/2021] [Accepted: 11/03/2021] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Improved understanding of Bartonella spp. serology in dogs may aid clinical decision making. Objective Describe demographic and geographic patterns of Bartonella spp. seroreactivity in dogs, and describe hematologic and serum biochemical abnormalities in Bartonella spp. seroreactive and nonseroreactive dogs. Animals Serum samples from 5957 dogs in the United States, previously submitted to IDEXX Reference Laboratories. Methods Serum was tested using 3 indirect ELISAs for B. henselae, B. vinsonii subsp. berkhoffii, and B. koehlerae. Complete blood count and serum biochemistry panel results were reviewed retrospectively. Results Overall, 6.1% of dogs were Bartonella spp. seroreactive. Toy breeds were less likely to be seroreactive (3.9%) than mixed breeds (7.5%; adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 0.48; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.32‐0.72), and dogs <1 year old were less likely to be seroreactive (3.4%) than dogs 1 to 5.5 years of age (7.3%; aOR, 0.42; 95% CI, 0.23‐0.72). Dogs in the West South Central (9.8%) and South Atlantic (8.8%) regions were more likely than dogs elsewhere in the United States to be seroreactive (aOR, 2.22; 95% CI, 1.31‐3.87; aOR, 2.44; 95% CI, 1.38‐4.36). Conclusions and Clinical Importance Demographic and geographic findings for Bartonella spp. exposure were broadly comparable to previously reported patterns.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erin Lashnits
- Intracellular Pathogens Research Laboratory, Comparative Medicine Institute, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina, USA.,Department of Medical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
| | | | | | | | - Jesse Buch
- IDEXX Laboratories Inc., Westbrook, Maine, USA
| | | | - Pradeep Neupane
- Intracellular Pathogens Research Laboratory, Comparative Medicine Institute, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina, USA
| | | | - Edward B Breitschwerdt
- Intracellular Pathogens Research Laboratory, Comparative Medicine Institute, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina, USA
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24
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Poofery J, Narapakdeesakul D, Riana E, Arnuphapprasert A, Nugraheni YR, Ngamprasertwong T, Wangthongchaicharoen M, Soisook P, Bhodhibundit P, Kaewthamasorn M. Molecular identification and genetic diversity of Bartonella spp. in 24 bat species from Thailand. Transbound Emerg Dis 2021; 69:e717-e733. [PMID: 34755483 DOI: 10.1111/tbed.14389] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2021] [Revised: 09/23/2021] [Accepted: 10/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
The study of bacterial zoonoses has been under-pursued despite the fact that bacteria cause the majority of zoonotic diseases, of which 70% have a wildlife origin. More Bartonella species are being identified as the cause of human diseases, and several of them have been linked to domestic and wild animals. Bats are outstanding reservoirs for Bartonella species because of their wide distribution, mobility, roosting behaviour, and long life span. Here, we carried out a PCR-based survey on bats that were collected from 19 sampling sites in eight provinces of Thailand from February 2018 to April 2021. Bartonella infection was investigated in a total of 459 bats that belong to 24 different bat species (21 species of which had never been previously studied in Thailand). PCR diagnostics revealed that 115 out of 459 (25.5%) blood samples tested positive for Bartonella. The nucleotide identities of the Bartonella 16S rRNA sequences in this study were between 95.78-99.66% identical to those of known zoonotic species (Bartonella ancashensis, Bartonella henselae, Bartonella bacilliformis and Bartonella australis) as well as to an unidentified Bartonella spp. In addition, the citrate synthase (gltA) and RNA polymerase-beta subunit (rpoB) genes of Bartonella were sequenced and analyzed in positive samples. The gltA and rpoB gene sequences from Hipposideros gentilis and Rhinolophus coelophyllus bat samples showed low nucleotide identity (<95%) compared to those of the currently deposited sequences in the GenBank database, indicating the possibility of new Bartonella species. The phylogenetic inference and genetic diversity were generated and indicated a close relationship with other Bartonella species previously discovered in Asian bats. Overall, the current study demonstrates the primary evidence pointing to a potential novel Bartonella species in bats. This discovery also contributes to our current understanding of the geographical distribution, genetic diversity, and host ranges of bat-related Bartonella.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juthathip Poofery
- Veterinary Parasitology Research Unit, Department of Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Duriyang Narapakdeesakul
- Veterinary Parasitology Research Unit, Department of Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand.,Veterinary Pathobiology Graduate Program, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Elizabeth Riana
- Veterinary Parasitology Research Unit, Department of Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand.,The International Graduate Program of Veterinary Science and Technology (VST), Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Apinya Arnuphapprasert
- Veterinary Parasitology Research Unit, Department of Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand.,Veterinary Pathobiology Graduate Program, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Yudhi Ratna Nugraheni
- Veterinary Parasitology Research Unit, Department of Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand.,The International Graduate Program of Veterinary Science and Technology (VST), Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand.,Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universitas Gadjah Mada, Yogyakarta, Indonesia
| | | | | | - Pipat Soisook
- Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn Natural History Museum, Prince of Songkla University, Songkhla, Thailand
| | - Phanaschakorn Bhodhibundit
- Sai Yok National Park, Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation, Kanchanaburi, Thailand
| | - Morakot Kaewthamasorn
- Veterinary Parasitology Research Unit, Department of Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
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25
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Divari S, Danelli M, Pregel P, Ghielmetti G, Borel N, Bollo E. Biomolecular Investigation of Bartonella spp. in Wild Rodents of Two Swiss Regions. Pathogens 2021; 10:pathogens10101331. [PMID: 34684280 PMCID: PMC8539893 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens10101331] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2021] [Revised: 10/07/2021] [Accepted: 10/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Rodents represent a natural reservoir of several Bartonella species, including zoonotic ones. In this study, small wild rodents, collected from two sites in rural areas of Switzerland, were screened for Bartonella spp. using molecular detection methods. In brief, 346 rodents were trapped in two rural sites in the Gantrisch Nature Park of Switzerland (Plasselb, canton of Fribourg, and Riggisberg, canton of Bern). Pools of DNA originating from three animals were tested through a qPCR screening and an end-point PCR, amplifying the 16S-23S rRNA gene intergenic transcribed spacer region and citrate synthase (gltA) loci, respectively. Subsequently, DNA was extracted from spleen samples belonging to single animals of gltA positive pools, and gltA and RNA polymerase subunit beta (rpoB) were detected by end-point PCR. Based on PCR results and sequencing, the prevalence of infection with Bartonella spp. in captured rodents, was 21.10% (73/346): 31.78% in Apodemus sp. (41/129), 10.47% in Arvicola scherman (9/86), 17.05% in Myodes glareolus (22/129), and 50% in Microtus agrestis (1/2). A significant association was observed between Bartonella spp. infection and rodent species (p < 0.01) and between trapping regions and positivity to Bartonella spp. infection (p < 0.001). Similarly, prevalence of Bartonella DNA was higher (p < 0.001) in rodents trapped in woodland areas (66/257, 25.68%) compared to those captured in open fields (9/89, 10.11%). Sequencing and phylogenetic analysis demonstrated that the extracted Bartonella DNA belonged mainly to B. taylorii and also to Candidatus “Bartonella rudakovii”, B. grahamii, B. doshiae, and B. birtlesii. In conclusion, the present study could rise public health issues regarding Bartonella infection in rodents in Switzerland.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Divari
- Department of Veterinary Science, University of Turin, Largo Braccini 2, 10095 Turin, Italy; (M.D.); (P.P.); (E.B.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Marta Danelli
- Department of Veterinary Science, University of Turin, Largo Braccini 2, 10095 Turin, Italy; (M.D.); (P.P.); (E.B.)
| | - Paola Pregel
- Department of Veterinary Science, University of Turin, Largo Braccini 2, 10095 Turin, Italy; (M.D.); (P.P.); (E.B.)
| | - Giovanni Ghielmetti
- Institute for Food Safety and Hygiene, Section of Veterinary Bacteriology, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, 8057 Zurich, Switzerland;
| | - Nicole Borel
- Institute of Veterinary Pathology, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, 8057 Zurich, Switzerland;
| | - Enrico Bollo
- Department of Veterinary Science, University of Turin, Largo Braccini 2, 10095 Turin, Italy; (M.D.); (P.P.); (E.B.)
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26
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Edvinsson M, Norlander C, Nilsson K, Mårtensson A, Skoog E, Olsen B. Bartonella spp. seroprevalence in tick-exposed Swedish patients with persistent symptoms. Parasit Vectors 2021; 14:530. [PMID: 34641972 PMCID: PMC8507314 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-021-05043-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2021] [Accepted: 09/28/2021] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Bartonella spp. are emerging pathogens transmitted by arthropod vectors, possibly including ticks. We have investigated signs of bartonellosis in Swedish patients with presumed tick-bite exposure and symptom duration of at least 6 months. Methods Serological testing for Bartonella henselae and Bartonella quintana was performed in 224 patients. Symptoms, tick exposure, evidence of co-infection and previous treatments were evaluated. Seropositive patients were compared to a matched group (twofold larger and negative serology) from the same study cohort. Results Seroprevalence was 7% for B. henselae and 1% for B. quintana, with one patient testing positive to both agents. Tick bites were reported by 63% of the patients in the seropositive group and 88% in the seronegative group and presumed tick exposure was more common in the seronegative group. Animal contact was equally common in both groups, along with reported symptoms. The most common symptoms were fatigue, muscular symptoms, arthralgia and cognitive symptoms. Exposure to co-infections was evenly distributed in the seropositive and seronegative groups. Conclusions Antibodies to Bartonella were more common in this cohort of patients than in cohorts of healthy Swedish blood donors in previous studies but lower than those in blood donors from southern Europe. Positive Bartonella serology was not linked to any specific symptom, nor to (suspected) tick-bite exposure. Graphical abstract ![]()
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Affiliation(s)
- Marie Edvinsson
- Department of Medical Sciences, Section of Infectious Diseases, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden.
| | - Camilla Norlander
- Department of Medical Sciences, Section of Infectious Diseases, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Kenneth Nilsson
- Department of Medical Sciences, Section of Infectious Diseases, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden.,Department of Medical Sciences, Section of Clinical Microbiology, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Andreas Mårtensson
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, International Maternal and Child Health (IMCH), Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Elisabet Skoog
- Department of Medical Sciences, Section of Infectious Diseases, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Björn Olsen
- Department of Medical Sciences, Section of Infectious Diseases, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
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Saengsawang P, Kaewmongkol G, Phoosangwalthong P, Chimnoi W, Inpankaew T. Detection of zoonotic Bartonella species in ticks and fleas parasitizing free-ranging cats and dogs residing in temples of Bangkok, Thailand. Vet Parasitol Reg Stud Reports 2021; 25:100612. [PMID: 34474805 DOI: 10.1016/j.vprsr.2021.100612] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2021] [Revised: 07/15/2021] [Accepted: 07/22/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Bartonellosis is a vector-borne disease caused by intraerythrocytic bacteria known as Bartonella spp. The potential vectors that transmit Bartonella spp. are fleas, ticks, sand flies, and lice. Several Bartonella spp. cause diseases in humans; however, there is few molecular evidence of Bartonella spp. in vectors in Thailand. The objectives of this study were to investigate Bartonella spp. and to evaluate the spatial distribution of Bartonella spp. prevalence in the ectoparasites parasitizing free-ranging cats and dogs in temple clusters of Bangkok, Thailand. In total, 343 ectoparasites were studied to extract their genomic DNA. Species of all specimens were identified using an identification key and conventional polymerase chain reaction (cPCR) was applied to confirm flea and tick species. Extracted DNA samples were processed using primers that targeted the gltA, rpoB, ftsZ, and ribC genes of Bartonella spp. Then, PCR-positive amplicons were sequenced and a phylogenetic tree was constructed. Recorded data were statistically analyzed using descriptive statistics, the chi-square test, Fisher's exact test, and the odds ratio. Area data were analyzed and a prevalence distribution map was plotted. The major parasitizing ticks and fleas in this study were Rhipicephalus sanguineus and Ctenocephalides felis, respectively. Overall, the prevalence of Bartonella spp. in ectoparasites was 7.00%. The gltA amplicons revealed the presence of B. henselae (4.78%) and B. clarridgeiae (4.78%) in C. felis, and B. koehlerae (1.25%) and B. phoceensis (1.25%) in R. sanguineus. Bartonella DNA was encountered in 16/39 (41.03%) districts and 28.57% of the temple clusters. Bang Khun Thian district had the highest positive proportion and Bang Bon district showed co-evidence of different Bartonella species. In addition, the intervening zones were a risk factor of Bartonella (p < 0.05), and the distribution map showed a scattered pattern of Bartonella-positive clusters. Finally, fleas showed to be important vector reservoirs for Bartonella spp., especially zoonotic species, however, experimental studies are needed to prove the Bartonella transmission in ticks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Phirabhat Saengsawang
- Center for Agricultural Biotechnology, Kasetsart University, Kamphaeng Saen Campus, Nakhon Pathom 73140, Thailand; Center of Excellence on Agricultural Biotechnology: (AG-BIO/MHESI), Bangkok 10900, Thailand; Akkhraratchakumari Veterinary College, Walailak University, Nakhon Si Thammarat 80161, Thailand
| | - Gunn Kaewmongkol
- Department of Companion Animal Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kasetsart University, Bangkok 10900, Thailand
| | - Pornkamol Phoosangwalthong
- Center for Agricultural Biotechnology, Kasetsart University, Kamphaeng Saen Campus, Nakhon Pathom 73140, Thailand; Center of Excellence on Agricultural Biotechnology: (AG-BIO/MHESI), Bangkok 10900, Thailand; Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kasetsart University, Bangkok 10900, Thailand
| | - Wissanuwat Chimnoi
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kasetsart University, Bangkok 10900, Thailand
| | - Tawin Inpankaew
- Center for Agricultural Biotechnology, Kasetsart University, Kamphaeng Saen Campus, Nakhon Pathom 73140, Thailand; Center of Excellence on Agricultural Biotechnology: (AG-BIO/MHESI), Bangkok 10900, Thailand; Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kasetsart University, Bangkok 10900, Thailand.
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Hedgehogs and Squirrels as Hosts of Zoonotic Bartonella Species. Pathogens 2021; 10:pathogens10060686. [PMID: 34205901 PMCID: PMC8229113 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens10060686] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2021] [Revised: 05/28/2021] [Accepted: 05/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Free-living animals frequently play a key role in the circulation of various zoonotic vector-borne pathogens. Bacteria of the genus Bartonella are transmitted by blood-feeding arthropods and infect a large range of mammals. Although only several species have been identified as causative agents of human disease, it has been proposed that any Bartonella species found in animals may be capable of infecting humans. Within a wide-ranging survey in various geographical regions of the Czech Republic, cadavers of accidentally killed synurbic mammalian species, namely Eurasian red squirrel (Sciurus vulgaris), European hedgehog (Erinaceus europaeus) and Northern white-breasted hedgehog (Erinaceus roumanicus), were sampled and tested for Bartonella presence using multiple PCR reaction approach targeting several DNA loci. We demonstrate that cadavers constitute an available and highly useful source of biological material for pathogen screening. High infection rates of Bartonella spp., ranging from 24% to 76%, were confirmed for all three tested mammalian species, and spleen, ear, lung and liver tissues were demonstrated as the most suitable for Bartonella DNA detection. The wide spectrum of Bartonella spp. that were identified includes three species with previously validated zoonotic potential, B. grahamii, B. melophagi and B. washoensis, accompanied by ‘Candidatus B. rudakovii’ and two putative novel species, Bartonella sp. ERIN and Bartonella sp. SCIER.
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ZHANG Y, ZHANG Z, LOU Y, YU Y. Prevalence of hemoplasmas and Bartonella species in client-owned cats in Beijing and Shanghai, China. J Vet Med Sci 2021; 83:793-797. [PMID: 33731498 PMCID: PMC8182318 DOI: 10.1292/jvms.20-0681] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2020] [Accepted: 02/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
A year-round molecular epidemiological survey (2017 to 2018) was conducted on three hemoplasmas and two Bartonella species with zoonotic potential in client-owned cats in Beijing and Shanghai. Among 668 specimens, the overall hemoplasma-positive rate was 4.9% (3.4% for Candidatus Mycoplasma haemominutum, 0.9% for Mycoplasma haemofelis and 1.2% for Candidatus Mycoplasma turicensis). The overall Bartonella-positive rate was 8.5% (4.8% for B. henselae and 4.3% for B. clarridgeiae). Age, breed, ectoparasiticide use and stray history, but not city, season and gender, were significantly associated with the positive rates of one or more pathogens. This is also the first report on the prevalence of Candidatus Mycoplasma turicensis in cats in China.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yingxin ZHANG
- College of Veterinary Medicine, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Zhixuan ZHANG
- College of Veterinary Medicine, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Yinying LOU
- College of Veterinary Medicine, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Yonglan YU
- College of Veterinary Medicine, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
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Exposure of Domestic Cats to Three Zoonotic Bartonella Species in the United States. Pathogens 2021; 10:pathogens10030354. [PMID: 33802644 PMCID: PMC8002574 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens10030354] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2021] [Revised: 03/12/2021] [Accepted: 03/13/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Cat-associated Bartonella species, which include B. henselae, B. koehlerae, and B. clarridgeiae, can cause mild to severe illness in humans. In the present study, we evaluated 1362 serum samples obtained from domestic cats across the U.S. for seroreactivity against three species and two strain types of Bartonella associated with cats (B. henselae type 1, B. henselae type 2, B. koehlerae, and B. clarridgeiae) using an indirect immunofluorescent assay (IFA). Overall, the seroprevalence at the cutoff titer level of ≥1:64 was 23.1%. Seroreactivity was 11.1% and 3.7% at the titer level cutoff of ≥1:128 and at the cutoff of ≥1:256, respectively. The highest observation of seroreactivity occurred in the East South-Central, South Atlantic, West North-Central, and West South-Central regions. The lowest seroreactivity was detected in the East North-Central, Middle Atlantic, Mountain, New England, and Pacific regions. We observed reactivity against all four Bartonella spp. antigens in samples from eight out of the nine U.S. geographic regions.
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Ericson ME, Breitschwerdt EB, Reicherter P, Maxwell C, Maggi RG, Melvin RG, Maluki AH, Bradley JM, Miller JC, Simmons GE, Dencklau J, Joppru K, Peterson J, Bae W, Scanlon J, Bemis LT. Bartonella henselae Detected in Malignant Melanoma, a Preliminary Study. Pathogens 2021; 10:pathogens10030326. [PMID: 33802018 PMCID: PMC7998106 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens10030326] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2020] [Revised: 03/04/2021] [Accepted: 03/08/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Bartonella bacilliformis (B. bacilliformis), Bartonella henselae (B. henselae), and Bartonella quintana (B. quintana) are bacteria known to cause verruga peruana or bacillary angiomatosis, vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)-dependent cutaneous lesions in humans. Given the bacteria's association with the dermal niche and clinical suspicion of occult infection by a dermatologist, we determined if patients with melanoma had evidence of Bartonella spp. infection. Within a one-month period, eight patients previously diagnosed with melanoma volunteered to be tested for evidence of Bartonella spp. exposure/infection. Subsequently, confocal immunohistochemistry and PCR for Bartonella spp. were used to study melanoma tissues from two patients. Blood from seven of the eight patients was either seroreactive, PCR positive, or positive by both modalities for Bartonella spp. exposure. Subsequently, Bartonella organisms that co-localized with VEGFC immunoreactivity were visualized using multi-immunostaining confocal microscopy of thick skin sections from two patients. Using a co-culture model, B. henselae was observed to enter melanoma cell cytoplasm and resulted in increased vascular endothelial growth factor C (VEGFC) and interleukin 8 (IL-8) production. Findings from this small number of patients support the need for future investigations to determine the extent to which Bartonella spp. are a component of the melanoma pathobiome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marna E. Ericson
- T Lab Inc., 910 Clopper Road, Suite 220S, Gaithersburg, MD 20878, USA;
| | - Edward B. Breitschwerdt
- Intracellular Pathogens Research Laboratory, Comparative Medicine Institute, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27607, USA; (E.B.B.); (R.G.M.); (J.M.B.)
| | - Paul Reicherter
- Dermatology Clinic, Truman Medical Center, University of Missouri, Kansas City, MO 64108, USA;
| | - Cole Maxwell
- Department of Dermatology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA; (C.M.); (A.H.M.); (J.D.); (J.P.); (W.B.); (J.S.)
| | - Ricardo G. Maggi
- Intracellular Pathogens Research Laboratory, Comparative Medicine Institute, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27607, USA; (E.B.B.); (R.G.M.); (J.M.B.)
| | - Richard G. Melvin
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Duluth Campus, Medical School, University of Minnesota, Duluth, MN 55812, USA; (R.G.M.); (G.E.S.J.); (K.J.)
| | - Azar H. Maluki
- Department of Dermatology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA; (C.M.); (A.H.M.); (J.D.); (J.P.); (W.B.); (J.S.)
- Department of Dermatology, College of Medicine, University of Kufa, Kufa 54003, Iraq
| | - Julie M. Bradley
- Intracellular Pathogens Research Laboratory, Comparative Medicine Institute, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27607, USA; (E.B.B.); (R.G.M.); (J.M.B.)
| | | | - Glenn E. Simmons
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Duluth Campus, Medical School, University of Minnesota, Duluth, MN 55812, USA; (R.G.M.); (G.E.S.J.); (K.J.)
| | - Jamie Dencklau
- Department of Dermatology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA; (C.M.); (A.H.M.); (J.D.); (J.P.); (W.B.); (J.S.)
| | - Keaton Joppru
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Duluth Campus, Medical School, University of Minnesota, Duluth, MN 55812, USA; (R.G.M.); (G.E.S.J.); (K.J.)
| | - Jack Peterson
- Department of Dermatology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA; (C.M.); (A.H.M.); (J.D.); (J.P.); (W.B.); (J.S.)
| | - Will Bae
- Department of Dermatology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA; (C.M.); (A.H.M.); (J.D.); (J.P.); (W.B.); (J.S.)
| | - Janet Scanlon
- Department of Dermatology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA; (C.M.); (A.H.M.); (J.D.); (J.P.); (W.B.); (J.S.)
| | - Lynne T. Bemis
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Duluth Campus, Medical School, University of Minnesota, Duluth, MN 55812, USA; (R.G.M.); (G.E.S.J.); (K.J.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-720-560-0278; Fax: +1-218-726-7906
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Flores-Mendoza C, Loyola S, Jiang J, Farris CM, Mullins K, Estep AS, Fisher ML, Richards AL. Molecular Characterization of Bartonella Species Discovered in Ectoparasites Collected from Domestic Animals, Cuzco, Peru. Vector Borne Zoonotic Dis 2021; 21:330-341. [PMID: 33567236 DOI: 10.1089/vbz.2020.2697] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Rickettsiae and bartonellae are Gram-negative bacteria that can cause zoonotic and human diseases and are vectored by hematophagous arthropods. In the Americas, rickettsioses and bartonelloses have reemerged as significant public health threats. Bartonella species have been identified as causing zoonotic infections responsible for a variety of clinical syndromes in humans and animals. The aim of this study was to investigate the distribution, prevalence, and molecular heterogeneity of Rickettsia spp. and Bartonella spp. among ectoparasites collected from domestic animals in 14 farming communities in the Andes Mountains of Cuzco, Peru. A total of 222 domestic animals representing 8 different species (sheep, donkeys, goats, cattle, pigs, llamas, guinea pigs, and horses) were sampled. Nine species of ectoparasites (n = 1,697) collected from 122 animals were identified resulting in 1,657 chewing lice, 39 ticks, and 1 flea. DNA was individually extracted from a random sample of 600 (35.4%) considering variability of ectoparasite species, hosts, and sample location elevation. All 600 samples were negative for rickettsial DNA by a genus-specific molecular assay. A subset of 173 (28.8%) samples were selected based on variability of arthropods species, host, and location for Bartonella testing. Ninety-one (52.6%) of these samples including Melophagus ovinus (90/110) and Bovicola bovis (1/7) were positive for Bartonella by a genus-specific molecular assay. Five Bartonella genes of seven DNA samples from M. ovinus were analyzed by the multilocus sequence typing for characterization. We identified five identical Bartonella melophagi specimens and two specimens with Bartonella species related to B. melophagi from the seven M. ovinus. The Bartonella agents detected were widely distributed and frequent in multiple studied locations.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Steev Loyola
- U.S. Naval Medical Research Unit No. 6, Lima, Peru
| | - Ju Jiang
- Naval Medical Research Center, Silver Spring, Maryland, USA
| | | | - Kristin Mullins
- Naval Medical Research Center, Silver Spring, Maryland, USA.,University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Alden S Estep
- United States Department of Agriculture, Gainesville, Florida, USA.,Navy Entomology Center of Excellence, Jacksonville, Florida, USA
| | | | - Allen L Richards
- Naval Medical Research Center, Silver Spring, Maryland, USA.,Department of Preventive Medicine and Biostatistics, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
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Pathogenic microorganisms in ticks removed from Slovakian residents over the years 2008-2018. Ticks Tick Borne Dis 2020; 12:101626. [PMID: 33385938 DOI: 10.1016/j.ttbdis.2020.101626] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2020] [Revised: 11/12/2020] [Accepted: 11/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
A total of 750 ticks feeding on humans were collected during the years 2008-2018. The majority of ticks (94.8 %) came from Slovakia, with 3.5 % from the Czech Republic, 0.9 % from Austria, and 0.3 % from Hungary. Travellers from Ukraine, Croatia, France, and Cuba also brought one tick from each of these countries. The majority of the analysed ticks were identified as Ixodes ricinus (94.3 %). Dermacentor reticulatus (0.93 %), Haemaphysalis concinna (0.1 %), Haemaphysalis sp. (0.1 %), Ixodes arboricola (0.1 %), and Rhipicephalus sp. (0.1 %) were also encountered. The most frequently found stage of I. ricinus was the nymph (69.9 %) followed by adult females (20.4 %) and larvae (8.3 %). Ticks were predominantly found on children younger than 10 years (46.3 %) and adults between 30-39 years (21.4 %). In children younger than 10 years, the ticks were usually found on the head, while in other age categories, the ticks were predominantly attached to legs. Ticks were further individually analysed for the presence of Rickettsia spp., Coxiella burnetii, Borrelia burgdorferi sensu lato, Anaplasma phagocytophilum, Neoehrlichia mikurensis, Bartonella spp. and Babesia spp. The overall prevalences of tick-borne bacteria assessed in I. ricinus ticks acquired in Slovakia were: rickettsiae 25.0 % (95 % CI: 21.7-28.2), B. burgdorferi s.l. 20.5 % (95 % CI: 17.4-23.5), A. phagocytophilum 13.5 % (95 % CI: 10.9-16.0), Babesia spp. 5.2 % (95 % CI: 3.5-6.9), C. burnetii 3.0 % (95 % CI: 1.5-4.6), and N. mikurensis 4.4 % (95 % CI: 2.0-6.8). Pathogenic species Rickettsia raoultii, Rickettsia helvetica, Rickettsia monacensis, A. phagocytophilum, Borrelia garinii, Borrelia afzelii, Borrelia valaisiana, Babesia microti, and Babesia divergens were identified in D. reticulatus and I. ricinus ticks.
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Bartonella Associated Cutaneous Lesions (BACL) in People with Neuropsychiatric Symptoms. Pathogens 2020; 9:pathogens9121023. [PMID: 33291688 PMCID: PMC7761945 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens9121023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2020] [Revised: 11/24/2020] [Accepted: 11/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Bartonella species are globally important emerging pathogens that were not known to infect animals or humans in North America prior to the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) epidemic. Ongoing improvements in diagnostic testing modalities have allowed for the discovery of Bartonella species (spp.) DNA in blood; cerebrospinal fluid; and the skin of patients with cutaneous lesions, fatigue, myalgia, and neurological symptoms. We describe Bartonella spp. test results for participants reporting neuropsychiatric symptoms, the majority of whom reported the concurrent development of cutaneous lesions. Study participants completed a medical history, a risk factor questionnaire, and provided cutaneous lesion photographs. Bartonella spp. serology and Bartonella alpha proteobacteria enrichment blood culture/PCR were assessed. Within a 14-month period, 33 participants enrolled; 29/33 had serological and/or PCR evidence supporting Bartonella spp. infection, of whom 24 reported concurrent cutaneous lesions since neuropsychiatric symptom onset. We conclude that cutaneous lesions were common among people reporting neuropsychiatric symptoms and Bartonella spp. infection or exposure. Additional studies, using sensitive microbiological and imaging techniques, are needed to determine if, or to what extent, Bartonella spp. might contribute to cutaneous lesions and neuropsychiatric symptoms in patients.
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Boulouis HJ, Chomel BB, Guillaume G, Benoît D, Chang CC, Monteil M, Kasten RW, Jack A, Nadia H. Multiple locus variable number tandem repeat analysis for the characterization of wild feline Bartonella species and subspecies. Vet Microbiol 2020; 247:108788. [PMID: 32768232 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetmic.2020.108788] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2019] [Revised: 06/28/2020] [Accepted: 07/06/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Bartonella genus includes an increasing number of species and subspecies, especially among wild felids, the positioning of which, with regards to the zoonotic species Bartonella henselae, is important to determine. The aim of this study was to test the ability of a molecular typing technique to distinguish between various Bartonella isolates obtained from four different species of free-ranging and captive wild felids and to identify key profiles or markers allowing differentiating them from each other and/or from B. henselae or B. koehlerae. A molecular typing technique for B. henselae based on the polymorphism of variable number tandem repeat units (VNTR) called MLVA (Multiple Locus VNTR Analysis) was applied to 24 Bartonella isolates from free-ranging or captive wild felids, 19 of which were obtained from California and five from three countries in Southern Africa, and compared with 49 B. henselae isolates from cats, dog or humans from the United States including the human ATCC (American Type Culture Collection) reference strain, B. henselae Houston 1. MLVA allowed distinguishing Bartonella isolates from wild felids from either B. henselae or B. koehlerae. We confirmed infection of semi-captive cheetahs with an isolate similar to a Californian bobcat isolate. MLVA also confirmed the unique profile of a free-ranging cheetah isolate from Namibia. Specific profiles were observed making MVLA a useful identification/classification tool of these wild felid isolates and suggesting that they are highly adapted to a specific feline reservoir. Finally, circulation of B. henselae isolates between domestic cats, wild felids and humans is likely occurring, based on the close allelic profiles of some isolates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Henri-Jean Boulouis
- UMR BIPAR 956, Ecole nationale vétérinaire d'Alfort, Anses, INRA, Université Paris-Est, Maisons-Alfort, France.
| | - Bruno B Chomel
- Department of Population Health and Reproduction, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis CA 95616, USA
| | - Girault Guillaume
- Unité Zoonoses Bactériennes, Anses, Université Paris-Est, Maisons-Alfort, France
| | - Durand Benoît
- Unité d'Epidémiologie, Anses, Université Paris-Est, Maisons-Alfort, France
| | - Chao-Chin Chang
- Graduate Institute of Microbiology and Public Health, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Martine Monteil
- UMR BIPAR 956, Ecole nationale vétérinaire d'Alfort, Anses, INRA, Université Paris-Est, Maisons-Alfort, France
| | - Rickie W Kasten
- Department of Population Health and Reproduction, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis CA 95616, USA
| | - Allen Jack
- The Zoological Society of San Diego, P.O. Box 120551, San Diego, CA, 92112, USA
| | - Haddad Nadia
- UMR BIPAR 956, Ecole nationale vétérinaire d'Alfort, Anses, INRA, Université Paris-Est, Maisons-Alfort, France
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Hao L, Yuan D, Guo L, Hou W, Mo X, Yin J, Yang A, Li R. Molecular detection of Bartonella in ixodid ticks collected from yaks and plateau pikas (Ochotona curzoniae) in Shiqu County, China. BMC Vet Res 2020; 16:235. [PMID: 32646425 PMCID: PMC7346470 DOI: 10.1186/s12917-020-02452-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2019] [Accepted: 07/02/2020] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Bartonella bacteria have been associated with an increasingly wide range of human and animal diseases. These emerging pathogens have been identified as being globally dispersed. Ticks and small rodents are known hosts of Bartonella and play a significant role in the preservation and circulation of Bartonella in nature. This study investigated the occurrence of hoist spp. in ticks (Acari: Ixodidae) and plateau pikas (Ochotona curzoniae) in Shiqu County, which is located on the eastern Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau in China. Shiqu County is spread over approximately 26,000 km2, with an average altitude of above 4200 m and a vast area of pastureland. Results A total of 818 ticks (Dermacentor everestianus, 79.0%, 646/818; Haemaphysalis qinghaiensis, 21.0%, 172/818) were collected from yaks in 4 villages of Shiqu County. Only Bartonella melophagi was detected in tick samples, with a total prevalence of 30.1% (246/818). The infection rates of B. melophagi in ticks from Arizha, Maga, Derongma, and Changxgma were 4.8, 76.8, 12.5, and 18.0%, respectively. The infection rate of B. melophagi in Maga was higher (p < 0.01) than those in other villages. Regarding plateau pikas, the total infection rate of Bartonella spp. was 21.7% (62/286), with 16.7% (12/72), 30.9% (25/81), 13.8% (9/65), and 23.5% (16/68) in Arizha, Maga, Derongma, and Changxgma, respectively. Finally, B. queenslandensis and B. grahamii were detected in plateau pika. No significant difference was observed (p > 0.05) in the infection rates between these study sites. Conclusion To date, only D. everestianus and H. qinghaiensis were found in Shiqu County with high infection of Bartonella spp. in the ticks and plateau pika. The threats of Bartonella species to public health should be closely monitored.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lili Hao
- College of Life Science and Technology, Southwest Minzhu University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Dongbo Yuan
- Center for Animal Disease Control and Prevention in Sichuan Province, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Li Guo
- Sichuan Institute of Veterinary Drug Control, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Wei Hou
- Center for Animal Disease Control and Prevention in Sichuan Province, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Xi Mo
- Center for Animal Disease Control and Prevention in Sichuan Province, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Jie Yin
- Center for Animal Disease Control and Prevention in Sichuan Province, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Aiguo Yang
- Center for Animal Disease Control and Prevention in Sichuan Province, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Rui Li
- Institute of Quality and Standard for Agro-products, Zhejiang Academy of Agricultural Sciences, State Key Laboratory for Quality and Safety of Agro-products, Hangzhou, 310021, China.
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Duan DY, Zhou HM, Cheng TY. Comparative analysis of microbial community in the whole body and midgut from fully engorged and unfed female adult Melophagus ovinus. MEDICAL AND VETERINARY ENTOMOLOGY 2020; 34:215-224. [PMID: 31840281 DOI: 10.1111/mve.12424] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2019] [Revised: 11/26/2019] [Accepted: 11/27/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Melophagus ovinus is a type of ectoparasite infesting sheep. Data regarding the comprehensive bacterial community associated with the whole body and midgut of M. ovinus under different engorged statuses are required. Melophagus ovinus were collected from the city of Jiuquan, China. Bacterial DNA was extracted from the whole body and midgut of fully engorged female adults, or newly hatched and unfed adult female M. ovinus. The 16S rRNA gene V3-V4 hypervariable regions were sequenced using the IonS5™XL platform (Thermo Fisher Scientific, Waltham, MA, U.S.A.). The whole body bacterial diversity of the newly hatched, unfed adult females was greater compared with that of the other three samples. Proteobacteria was the dominant bacterial phylum in all of the samples. Of the 42 total bacterial genera present in all of the experimental samples, Arsenophonus, Bartonella and Wolbachia were the dominant genera. The relative abundance of Arsenophonus in midgut was greater than that in the whole body. The relative abundance of Bartonella in fully engorged adults was far greater than those in newly hatched, unfed adults. The relative abundance of Wolbachia was highest in the whole body of newly hatched, unfed adults. Seventeen bacterial species were identified in all experimental samples. Bartonella chomelii, Streptococcus hyointestinalis and Escherichia coli were the first species reported in M. ovinus.
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Affiliation(s)
- D-Y Duan
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - H-M Zhou
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - T-Y Cheng
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha, Hunan, China
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Validation of Bartonella henselae Western Immunoblotting for Serodiagnosis of Bartonelloses in Dogs. J Clin Microbiol 2020; 58:JCM.01335-19. [PMID: 31941695 DOI: 10.1128/jcm.01335-19] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2019] [Accepted: 12/21/2019] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Bartonella spp. are etiological agents of life-threatening zoonotic diseases in dogs worldwide. Due to the poor sensitivity of immunofluorescent-antibody assays (IFAs), a reliable serodiagnostic test for canine bartonelloses is of clinical importance. The utility of Western blotting (WB) for the serodiagnosis of canine bartonelloses has not been critically investigated. The objective of this study was to characterize WB immunodominant proteins that could be used to confirm a serodiagnosis of bartonelloses. Using agar-grown Bartonella henselae San Antonio type 2 (SA2) whole-cell proteins, sera derived from four dog groups were tested by WB to assess immunodominant protein recognition patterns: group I consisted of 92 serum samples (10 preexposure and 82 postexposure serum samples) from 10 adult beagles experimentally inoculated with Bartonella spp., group II consisted of 36 serum samples from Bartonella PCR-positive naturally infected dogs, group III consisted of 26 serum samples from Bartonella PCR-negative and IFA-negative dogs, and group IV consisted of serum samples from 8 Brucella canis IFA-positive and 10 Rickettsia rickettsii IFA-positive dogs. Following experimental inoculation, 9 (90%) group I dogs were variably seroreactive to one or more of six specific immunodominant proteins (13, 17, 29, 50, 56, and 150 kDa). There was a strong but variable recognition of these proteins among 81% of group II dogs. In contrast, 24/26 group III dogs were not reactive to any immunodominant protein. In this study, the sensitivity and diagnostic accuracy of B. henselae SA2 WB were higher than those of B. henselae SA2 IFA testing. Some B. henselae SA2 immunodominant proteins were recognized by dogs experimentally and naturally infected with Bartonella spp. other than B. henselae Additional research is necessary to more fully define the utility of WB for the serodiagnosis of canine bartonelloses.
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Bartonella vinsonii subsp. arupensis infection in animals of veterinary importance, ticks and biopsy samples. New Microbes New Infect 2020; 34:100652. [PMID: 32071727 PMCID: PMC7013009 DOI: 10.1016/j.nmni.2020.100652] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Testing for vector-borne pathogens in livestock is largely reliant upon blood and tissue. The role of biopsy samples remains poorly explored for detecting tick-borne bacteria in animals. In a 2-year survey, animals of veterinary importance from farms throughout the northern part of Greece were routinely checked for the presence of biopsy samples. Where detected, either a portion or a biopsy was collected together with whole blood samples and any ticks at the site of the biopsy sample. Molecular testing was carried out by real-time PCR targeting the internal transcribed spacer gene of Bartonella species. A total of 68 samples (28 blood samples, 28 biopsy samples and 12 ticks (nine Rhipicephalus bursa and three Rhipicephalus turanicus)) were collected from goats (64 samples) and cattle (four samples). Eight (11.8%) of the 68 samples were positive for Bartonella species. Of the biopsy and whole blood samples, four (14.3%) of each type were positive for Bartonella species. None of the ticks tested positive for Bartonella species. All pairs of positive biopsy samples/whole blood samples originated from the same animals. Positive samples were identified as Bartonella vinsonii subsp. arupensis. Although many more samples from a much wider spectrum of animal species is required before concluding upon the merit of biopsy samples in the study of tick-borne diseases, the significance of our finding warrants further study, both for clinical consequences in small ruminants and for those humans who are farming infected animals.
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40
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Blasdell KR, Perera D, Firth C. High Prevalence of Rodent-Borne Bartonella spp. in Urbanizing Environments in Sarawak, Malaysian Borneo. Am J Trop Med Hyg 2020; 100:506-509. [PMID: 30526734 DOI: 10.4269/ajtmh.18-0616] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Rodents are the most prominent animal host of Bartonella spp., which are associated with an increasing number of human diseases worldwide. Many rodent species thrive in urban environments and live in close contact with people, which can lead to an increased human risk of infection from rodent-borne pathogens. In this study, we explored the prevalence and distribution of Bartonella spp. in rodents in urban, developing, and rural environments surrounding a growing city in Sarawak, Malaysian Borneo. We found that although Bartonella spp. infection was pervasive in most rodent species sampled, prevalence was highest in urban areas and infection was most commonly detected in the predominant indigenous rodent species sampled (Sundamys muelleri). Within the urban environment, parks and remnant green patches were significantly associated with the presence of both S. muelleri and Bartonella spp., indicating higher localized risk of infection for people using these environments for farming, foraging, or recreation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kim R Blasdell
- Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organization (CSIRO), Geelong, Australia
| | - David Perera
- Universiti Malaysia Sarawak, Kota Samarahan, Malaysia
| | - Cadhla Firth
- The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Australia
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41
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Lashnits E, Neupane P, Maggi RG, Linder KE, Bradley JM, Balakrishnan N, Southern BL, McKeon GP, Chandrashekar R, Breitschwerdt EB. Detection of Bartonella spp. in dogs after infection with Rickettsia rickettsii. J Vet Intern Med 2019; 34:145-159. [PMID: 31891215 PMCID: PMC6979086 DOI: 10.1111/jvim.15675] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2019] [Accepted: 11/19/2019] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Dynamics of infection by Bartonella and Rickettsia species, which are epidemiologically associated in dogs, have not been explored in a controlled setting. Objectives Describe an outbreak investigation of occult Bartonella spp. infection among a group of dogs, discovered after experimentally induced Rickettsia rickettsii (Rr) infection. Animals Six apparently healthy purpose‐bred Beagles obtained from a commercial vendor. Methods Retrospective and prospective study. Dogs were serially tested for Bartonella spp. and Rr using serology, culture, and PCR, over 3 study phases: 3 months before inoculation with Rr (retrospective), 6 weeks after inoculation with Rr (retrospective), and 8 months of follow‐up (prospective). Results Before Rr infection, 1 dog was Bartonella henselae (Bh) immunofluorescent antibody assay (IFA) seroreactive and 1 was Rickettsia spp. IFA seroreactive. After inoculation with Rr, all dogs developed mild Rocky Mountain spotted fever compatible with low‐dose Rr infection, seroconverted to Rickettsia spp. within 4‐11 days, and recovered within 1 week. When 1 dog developed ear tip vasculitis with intra‐lesional Bh, an investigation of Bartonella spp. infection was undertaken. All dogs had seroconverted to 1‐3 Bartonella spp. between 7 and 18 days after Rr inoculation. Between 4 and 8 months after Rr inoculation, Bh DNA was amplified from multiple tissues from 2 dogs, and Bartonella vinsonii subsp. berkhoffii (Bvb) DNA was amplified from 4 of 5 dogs' oral swabs. Conclusions and Clinical Importance Vector‐borne disease exposure was demonstrated in research dogs from a commercial vendor. Despite limitations, our results support the possibilities of recrudescence of chronic subclinical Bartonella spp. infection after Rr infection and horizontal direct‐contact transmission between dogs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erin Lashnits
- Comparative Biomedical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina
| | - Pradeep Neupane
- Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina
| | - Ricardo G Maggi
- Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina.,Intracellular Pathogens Research Laboratory, Comparative Medicine Institute, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina
| | - Keith E Linder
- Department of Population Health and Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina
| | - Julie M Bradley
- Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina
| | - Nandhakumar Balakrishnan
- Intracellular Pathogens Research Laboratory, Comparative Medicine Institute, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina
| | - Brittany L Southern
- Laboratory Animal Resources, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina
| | - Gabriel P McKeon
- Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina.,Laboratory Animal Resources, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina
| | | | - Edward B Breitschwerdt
- Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina.,Intracellular Pathogens Research Laboratory, Comparative Medicine Institute, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina
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Prosthetic Valve Endocarditis with Bartonella washoensis in a Human European Patient and Its Detection in Red Squirrels ( Sciurus vulgaris). J Clin Microbiol 2019; 58:JCM.01404-19. [PMID: 31619523 DOI: 10.1128/jcm.01404-19] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2019] [Accepted: 10/05/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Members of the genus Bartonella are fastidious Gram-negative facultative intracellular bacteria that are typically transmitted by arthropod vectors. Several Bartonella spp. have been found to cause culture-negative endocarditis in humans. Here, we report the case of a 75-year-old German woman with prosthetic valve endocarditis due to Bartonella washoensis The infecting agent was characterized by sequencing of six housekeeping genes (16S rRNA, ftsZ, gltA, groEL, ribC, and rpoB), applying a multilocus sequence typing (MLST) approach. The 5,097 bp of the concatenated housekeeping gene sequence from the patient were 99.0% identical to a sequence from a B. washoensis strain isolated from a red squirrel (Sciurus vulgaris orientis) from China. A total of 39% (24/62) of red squirrel (S. vulgaris) samples from the Netherlands were positive for the B. washoensis gltA gene variant detected in the patient. This suggests that the red squirrel is the reservoir host for human infection in Europe.
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43
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Bartonella washoensis infection in red squirrels (Sciurus vulgaris) and their ectoparasites in Lithuania. Comp Immunol Microbiol Infect Dis 2019; 68:101391. [PMID: 31760364 DOI: 10.1016/j.cimid.2019.101391] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2019] [Revised: 11/06/2019] [Accepted: 11/07/2019] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
This is the first study to investigate the presence of Bartonella infections in different internal organs of red squirrels and their ectoparasites in Lithuania. A total of 39 roadkill red squirrels were collected. Squirrels were infested with Ixodes ricinus ticks (191) and Ceratophyllus sciurorum fleas (36). The presence of Bartonella spp. was screened using 16 S-23 S rRNA internal transcribed spacer region and bacteria were detected in 38.5 % (15/39) samples of squirrels, 1.0 % (2/191) samples of ticks and 55.5 % (20/36) samples of fleas. The infection rate of different internal organs of squirrels varied from 11.1%-47.4%. The 16 S-23 S rRNA ITS region sequences showed that Bartonella washoensis were detected in squirrels and their ectoparasites. The results from this study support the hypothesis that S. vulgaris and their fleas, C.sciurorum, serve as a major reservoir and a vector, respectively, of zoonotic B. washoensis in Lithuania.
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Lashnits EW, Dawson DE, Breitschwerdt E, Lanzas C. Ecological and Socioeconomic Factors Associated with Bartonella henselae Exposure in Dogs Tested for Vector-Borne Diseases in North Carolina. Vector Borne Zoonotic Dis 2019; 19:582-595. [PMID: 31112095 PMCID: PMC6685192 DOI: 10.1089/vbz.2018.2397] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Bartonella henselae is a zoonotic vector-borne pathogen affecting both humans and dogs. Little is known about the epidemiology of B. henselae in dogs, including risk factors associated with exposure. The objectives of this study were to map the current distribution of B. henselae in dogs in North Carolina (NC) and to identify ecological and socioeconomic factors influencing B. henselae seroreactivity. Results from 4446 B. henselae serology samples from dogs in NC submitted by veterinarians for clinical diagnostic testing to the North Carolina State University College of Veterinary Medicine Vector Borne Disease Diagnostic Laboratory between January 1, 2004 and December 31, 2015 were retrospectively reviewed. These results were used to generate a map of B. henselae seroreactivity. To account for sparsely sampled areas, statistical smoothing using head banging and areal interpolation kriging was performed. Using previously described risk factors for exposure to canine tick-borne diseases, eight multivariable logistic regression models based on biologically plausible hypotheses were tested, and a final model was selected using an Akaike's Information Criterion weighted-average approach. Seroreactivity among dogs tested for vector-borne disease was variable across the state: higher along the southern/eastern coastal plains and eastern Piedmont, and lower in the western mountains. Of 25 explanatory factors considered, the model combining demographic, socioeconomic, climatic, and land use variables fits best. Based on this model, female intact sex and increasing percentage of the county with low-intensity development and evergreen forest were associated with higher seroreactivity. Conversely, moderate development, increasing median household income, and higher temperature range and relative humidity were associated with lower seroreactivity. This model could be improved, however, by including local and host-scale factors that may play a significant role in dogs' exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erin W. Lashnits
- Comparative Biomedical Sciences Graduate Program, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina
| | - Daniel E. Dawson
- Population Health and Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina
| | - Edward Breitschwerdt
- Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina
| | - Cristina Lanzas
- Population Health and Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina
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Silva BTGD, Souza AMD, Campos SDE, Macieira DDB, Lemos ERSD, Favacho ARDM, Almosny NRP. Bartonella henselae and Bartonella clarridgeiae infection, hematological changes and associated factors in domestic cats and dogs from an Atlantic rain forest area, Brazil. Acta Trop 2019; 193:163-168. [PMID: 30825447 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2019.02.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2018] [Revised: 02/25/2019] [Accepted: 02/26/2019] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
Cats are considered main reservoir of Bartonella henselae, which is transmitted to other cats especially through Ctenocephalides felis fleas, and to humans through scratching and biting. Serra da Tiririca State Park (PESET) is an Atlantic Forest area that shelters a wide variety of endemic fauna. Recently, the park has been suffering due to irregular housing construction and domestic animal population that interacts with humans and wildlife. Given that surveillance policies for animals are part of the global Strategic Framework for One Health, the aim of this study was to detect Bartonella spp. DNA in cats and dogs, evaluating laboratory changes and associated factors. Blood samples of 124 dogs and 89 cats were collected for hematology and serum chemistry analysis. DNA was extracted and tested by conventional polymerase chain reaction (PCR) targeting a fragment of the citrate synthase (gltA) gene of Bartonella spp. with specific primers. Positive samples were sequenced to identify species. Bartonella henselae and B. clarridgeiae were detected in 24.7% of cats, being, for our knowledge, the first report of B. clarridgeiae in cats from Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. None of the samples obtained from dogs tested positive in the PCR assays. No statistical significance was observed in physical and laboratory exams. We suggest that cats that inhabit PESET can be considered sources of Bartonella sp. for other cats and humans. We highlight that infected cats did not present clinical or laboratory alterations. We alert for the need of care measures, avoiding scratch and bite, particularly in immunocompromised people.
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Cheslock MA, Embers ME. Human Bartonellosis: An Underappreciated Public Health Problem? Trop Med Infect Dis 2019; 4:tropicalmed4020069. [PMID: 31010191 PMCID: PMC6630881 DOI: 10.3390/tropicalmed4020069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2019] [Revised: 04/12/2019] [Accepted: 04/16/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Bartonella spp. bacteria can be found around the globe and are the causative agents of multiple human diseases. The most well-known infection is called cat-scratch disease, which causes mild lymphadenopathy and fever. As our knowledge of these bacteria grows, new presentations of the disease have been recognized, with serious manifestations. Not only has more severe disease been associated with these bacteria but also Bartonella species have been discovered in a wide range of mammals, and the pathogens’ DNA can be found in multiple vectors. This review will focus on some common mammalian reservoirs as well as the suspected vectors in relation to the disease transmission and prevalence. Understanding the complex interactions between these bacteria, their vectors, and their reservoirs, as well as the breadth of infection by Bartonella around the world will help to assess the impact of Bartonellosis on public health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mercedes A Cheslock
- Division of Immunology, Tulane National Primate Research Center, Tulane University Health Sciences, Covington, LA 70433, USA.
| | - Monica E Embers
- Division of Immunology, Tulane National Primate Research Center, Tulane University Health Sciences, Covington, LA 70433, USA.
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Breitschwerdt EB, Greenberg R, Maggi RG, Mozayeni BR, Lewis A, Bradley JM. Bartonella henselae Bloodstream Infection in a Boy With Pediatric Acute-Onset Neuropsychiatric Syndrome. J Cent Nerv Syst Dis 2019; 11:1179573519832014. [PMID: 30911227 PMCID: PMC6423671 DOI: 10.1177/1179573519832014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2018] [Accepted: 01/21/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND With the advent of more sensitive culture and molecular diagnostic testing modalities, Bartonella spp. infections have been documented in blood and/or cerebrospinal fluid specimens from patients with diverse neurological symptoms. Pediatric acute-onset neuropsychiatric syndrome (PANS) is characterized by an unusually abrupt onset of cognitive, behavioral, or neurological symptoms. Between October 2015 and January 2017, a 14-year-old boy underwent evaluation by multiple specialists for sudden-onset psychotic behavior (hallucinations, delusions, suicidal and homicidal ideation). METHODS In March 2017, Bartonella spp. serology (indirect fluorescent antibody assays) and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) amplification, DNA sequencing, and Bartonella enrichment blood culture were used on a research basis to assess Bartonella spp. exposure and bloodstream infection, respectively. PCR assays targeting other vector-borne infections were performed to assess potential co-infections. RESULTS For 18 months, the boy remained psychotic despite 4 hospitalizations, therapeutic trials involving multiple psychiatric medication combinations, and immunosuppressive treatment for autoimmune encephalitis. Neurobartonellosis was diagnosed after cutaneous lesions developed. Subsequently, despite nearly 2 consecutive months of doxycycline administration, Bartonella henselae DNA was PCR amplified and sequenced from the patient's blood, and from Bartonella alphaproteobacteria growth medium enrichment blood cultures. B henselae serology was negative. During treatment with combination antimicrobial chemotherapy, he experienced a gradual progressive decrease in neuropsychiatric symptoms, cessation of psychiatric drugs, resolution of Bartonella-associated cutaneous lesions, and a return to all pre-illness activities. CONCLUSIONS This case report suggests that B henselae bloodstream infection may contribute to progressive, recalcitrant neuropsychiatric symptoms consistent with PANS in a subset of patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edward B Breitschwerdt
- Intracellular Pathogens Research
Laboratory, Comparative Medicine Institute, College of Veterinary Medicine, North
Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, USA
| | | | - Ricardo G Maggi
- Intracellular Pathogens Research
Laboratory, Comparative Medicine Institute, College of Veterinary Medicine, North
Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, USA
| | | | - Allen Lewis
- Sancta Familia Center for Integrative
Medicine, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Julie M Bradley
- Intracellular Pathogens Research
Laboratory, Comparative Medicine Institute, College of Veterinary Medicine, North
Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, USA
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Bartonella henselae- and quintana-associated uveitis: a case series and approach of a potentially severe disease with a broad spectrum of ocular manifestations. Int Ophthalmol 2019; 39:2505-2515. [PMID: 30852734 DOI: 10.1007/s10792-019-01096-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2018] [Accepted: 03/01/2019] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To evaluate the clinical manifestations of intraocular inflammation associated with Bartonella infection and describe the assessment and management of patients with cat-scratch disease (CSD). METHODS This is a retrospective review of the clinical records of patients diagnosed with Bartonella henselae and Bartonella quintana intraocular inflammation from 2011 to 2018 in the Department of Ocular Inflammations and Infections of the University Eye Clinic of Ioannina (Greece). An analysis of the current literature concerning Bartonella-related intraocular infections was also carried out. RESULTS This is a retrospective study of 13 patients (7 males and 6 females) with a mean age of 39.2 years that were diagnosed with unilateral intraocular inflammation, except one case with bilateral affection, attributed to Bartonella (either henselae or quintana). Twelve (12) patients (92.3%) had a positive history of traumatic cat contact. The main ocular clinical findings with regard to the type of uveitis included neuroretinitis in 5 eyes (38.5%), vasculitis in 3 eyes (23.1%), iridocyclitis in 2 eyes (15.4%), intermediate uveitis in 2 eyes (15.4%), posterior uveitis in 1 eye (7.7%), panuveitis in 2 eyes (15.4%), retinochoroiditis in 2 eyes (15.4%), vitritis in 1 eye (7.7%), peripheral choroidal granuloma in 1 eye (7.7%). Immunoglobulin (Ig) G was positive in all cases. All patients were treated with antibiotics (mainly rifampicin, doxycycline and azithromycin). The visual acuity was noted to be improved in all patients after treatment, but some of them experienced disturbing complications. CONCLUSION CSD may manifest with various ocular pathological findings. Taking into consideration the increasing frequency of infections by B. henselae and B. quintana, clinicians should always incorporate CSD in the differential diagnosis of such presentations of uveitis. Educating vulnerable groups (children, immunosuppressed, etc.) and also general population, the appropriate preventing measures can contribute in limiting the risk of infection.
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Regier Y, Komma K, Weigel M, Kraiczy P, Laisi A, Pulliainen AT, Hain T, Kempf VAJ. Combination of microbiome analysis and serodiagnostics to assess the risk of pathogen transmission by ticks to humans and animals in central Germany. Parasit Vectors 2019; 12:11. [PMID: 30616666 PMCID: PMC6322329 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-018-3240-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2018] [Accepted: 11/28/2018] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Arthropod-borne diseases remain a major health-threat for humans and animals worldwide. To estimate the distribution of pathogenic agents and especially Bartonella spp., we conducted tick microbiome analysis and determination of the infection status of wild animals, pets and pet owners in the state of Hesse, Germany. RESULTS In total, 189 engorged ticks collected from 163 animals were tested. Selected ticks were analyzed by next generation sequencing (NGS) and confirmatory PCRs, blood specimens of 48 wild animals were analyzed by PCR to confirm pathogen presence and sera of 54 dogs, one cat and 11 dog owners were analyzed by serology. Bartonella spp. were detected in 9.5% of all ticks and in the blood of 17 roe deer. Further data reveal the presence of the human and animal pathogenic species of genera in the family Spirochaetaceae (including Borrelia miyamotoi and Borrelia garinii), Bartonella spp. (mainly Bartonella schoenbuchensis), Rickettsia helvetica, Francisella tularensis and Anaplasma phagocytophilum in ticks. Co-infections with species of several genera were detected in nine ticks. One dog and five dog owners were seropositive for anti-Bartonella henselae-antibodies and one dog had antibodies against Rickettsia conorii. CONCLUSIONS This study provides a snapshot of pathogens circulating in ticks in central Germany. A broad range of tick-borne pathogens are present in ticks, and especially in wild animals, with possible implications for animal and human health. However, a low incidence of Bartonella spp., especially Bartonella henselae, was detected. The high number of various detected pathogens suggests that ticks might serve as an excellent sentinel to detect and monitor zoonotic human pathogens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yvonne Regier
- University Hospital, Goethe-University, Institute for Medical Microbiology and Infection Control, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Kassandra Komma
- Institute of Medical Microbiology, Justus-Liebig University, Giessen, Germany
| | - Markus Weigel
- Institute of Medical Microbiology, Justus-Liebig University, Giessen, Germany
| | - Peter Kraiczy
- University Hospital, Goethe-University, Institute for Medical Microbiology and Infection Control, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Arttu Laisi
- Institute of Biomedicine, Research Center for Cancer, Infections and Immunity, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
| | - Arto T. Pulliainen
- Institute of Biomedicine, Research Center for Cancer, Infections and Immunity, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
| | - Torsten Hain
- Institute of Medical Microbiology, Justus-Liebig University, Giessen, Germany
- German Centre for Infection Research (DZIF), partner site Giessen-Marburg-Langen, Giessen, Germany
| | - Volkhard A. J. Kempf
- University Hospital, Goethe-University, Institute for Medical Microbiology and Infection Control, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
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Kosoy M, Goodrich I. Comparative Ecology of Bartonella and Brucella Infections in Wild Carnivores. Front Vet Sci 2019; 5:322. [PMID: 30662899 PMCID: PMC6328487 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2018.00322] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2018] [Accepted: 12/03/2018] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Phylogenetic sister clades Bartonella and Brucella within the order Rhizobiales present some common biological characteristics as well as evident differences in adaptations to their mammalian reservoirs. We reviewed published data on Bartonella and Brucella infections in wild carnivores to compare the ecology of these bacteria in relatively similar host environments. Arthropod vectors are the main mechanism for Bartonella species transmission between mammalian hosts. The role of arthropods in transmission of Brucella remains disputed, however experimental studies and reported detection of Brucella in arthropods indicate potential vector transmission. More commonly, transmission of Brucella occurs via contact exposure to infected animals or the environment contaminated with their discharges. Of 26 species of carnivores tested for both Bartonella and Brucella, 58% harbored either. Among them were bobcats, African lions, golden jackals, coyotes, wolves, foxes, striped skunks, sea otters, raccoons, and harbor seals. The most common species of Bartonella in wild carnivores was B. henselae, found in 23 species, followed by B. rochalimae in 12, B. clarridgeiae in ten, and B. vinsonii subsp. berkhoffii in seven. Among Brucella species, Br. abortus was reported in over 30 terrestrial carnivore species, followed by Br. canis in seven. Marine carnivores, such as seals and sea lions, can host Br. pinnipedialis. In contrast, there is no evidence of a Bartonella strain specific for marine mammals. Bartonella species are present practically in every sampled species of wild felids, but of 14 Brucella studies of felids, only five reported Brucella and those were limited to detection of antibodies. We found no reports of Bartonella in bears while Brucella was detected in these animals. There is evident host-specificity of Bartonella species in wild carnivores (e.g., B. henselae in felids and B. vinsonii subsp. berkhoffii in canids). A co-adaptation of Brucella with terrestrial wild carnivore hosts is not as straightforward as in domestic animals. Wild carnivores often carry the same pathogens as their domesticated relatives (cats and dogs), but the risk of exposure varies widely because of differences in biology, distribution, and historical interactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Kosoy
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Fort Collins, CO, United States
| | - Irina Goodrich
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Fort Collins, CO, United States
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