1
|
Chand M, Vydyam P, Pal AC, Thekkiniath J, Darif D, Li Z, Choi JY, Magni R, Luchini A, Tonnetti L, Horn EJ, Tufts DM, Ben Mamoun C. A set of diagnostic tests for detection of active Babesia duncani infection. Int J Infect Dis 2024; 147:107178. [PMID: 39025200 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijid.2024.107178] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2024] [Revised: 07/03/2024] [Accepted: 07/13/2024] [Indexed: 07/20/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Human babesiosis is an emerging and potentially fatal tick-borne disease caused by intraerythrocytic parasites of the Babesia genus. Among these, Babesia duncani is particularly notable for causing severe and life-threatening illness in humans. Accurate diagnosis and effective disease management hinge on the detection of active B. duncani infections. While molecular assays are available to detect the parasite in blood, a reliable method for identifying biomarkers of active infection remains elusive. METHODS We developed the first B. duncani antigen capture assays, targeting two immunodominant antigens, BdV234 and BdV38. These assays were validated using established in vitro and in vivo B. duncani infection models, and following drug treatment. RESULTS The assays demonstrated no cross-reactivity with other species such as B. microti, B. divergens, Babesia MO1, or Plasmodium falciparum, and can detect as few as 115 infected erythrocytes/µl of blood. Screening of 1731 blood samples from various biorepositories, including samples previously identified as Lyme and/or B. microti-positive, as well as new specimens from wild mice, revealed no evidence of B. duncani infection or cross-reactivity. CONCLUSIONS These assays hold significant promise for various applications, including point-of-care testing for the early detection of B. duncani in patients, field tests for screening reservoir hosts, and high-throughput screening of blood samples intended for transfusion.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Meenal Chand
- Department of Internal Medicine, Section of Infectious Diseases, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, USA
| | - Pratap Vydyam
- Department of Internal Medicine, Section of Infectious Diseases, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, USA
| | - Anasuya C Pal
- Department of Internal Medicine, Section of Infectious Diseases, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, USA
| | - Jose Thekkiniath
- Department of Internal Medicine, Section of Infectious Diseases, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, USA
| | - Dounia Darif
- Department of Internal Medicine, Section of Infectious Diseases, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, USA
| | - Zeng Li
- Department of Internal Medicine, Section of Infectious Diseases, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, USA
| | - Jae-Yeon Choi
- Department of Internal Medicine, Section of Infectious Diseases, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, USA
| | - Ruben Magni
- School of Systems Biology, George Mason University, Fairfax, USA
| | | | | | | | - Danielle M Tufts
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Microbiology, University of Pittsburgh School of Public Health, Pittsburgh, USA; Department of Veterinary Tropical Diseases, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Choukri Ben Mamoun
- Department of Internal Medicine, Section of Infectious Diseases, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Patiño LH, Castañeda S, Camargo M, Cao LY, Liggayu B, Paniz-Mondolfi A, Ramírez JD. Validation of real-time PCR assays for detecting Plasmodium and Babesia DNA species in blood samples. Acta Trop 2024; 258:107350. [PMID: 39134111 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2024.107350] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2024] [Revised: 07/11/2024] [Accepted: 08/02/2024] [Indexed: 08/17/2024]
Abstract
Malaria and babesiosis are global health threats affecting humans, wildlife, and domestic animals, particularly in Africa, the Americas, and Europe. Malaria can lead to severe outcomes, while babesiosis usually resembles a mild illness but can be severe and fatal in individuals with weakened immune systems. Swift, accurate detection of these parasites is crucial for treatment and control. We evaluated a real-time PCR assay for diagnosing five Plasmodium and three Babesia species from blood samples, assessing its sensitivity, specificity, and analytical performance by analyzing 46 malaria-positive and 32 Babesia spp-positive samples diagnosed through microscopy. The limit of detection for Plasmodium species ranged from 30 to 0.0003 copies/µL. For mixed infections, it was 0.3 copies/µL for P. falciparum/P. vivax and 3 copies/µL for P. malariae/P. knowlesi. Babesia species had a detection limit of 0.2 copies/µL. No cross-reactivity was observed among 64 DNA samples from various microorganisms. The assay showed good sensitivity, detecting Plasmodium and Babesia species with 100 % accuracy overall, except for P. falciparum (97.7 %) and B. microti (12.5 %). The low sensitivity of detecting B. microti was attributed to limitations in microscopy for species identification. This technique heavily relies on the proficiency of the examiner, as species within the genus cannot be distinguished under a microscope. Additionally, Babesia can be confused with the early trophozoite stage (ring forms) of Plasmodium parasites. The findings support multiplex qPCR's diagnostic superiority over the gold standard, despite higher costs. It offers enhanced sensitivity, specificity, and detects mixed infections, crucial for effective monitoring and diagnosis of malaria and babesiosis in endemic regions with significant public health challenges.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Luz Helena Patiño
- Centro de Investigaciones en Microbiología y Biotecnología-UR (CIMBIUR), Facultad de Ciencias Naturales, Universidad del Rosario, Bogotá, Colombia; Molecular Microbiology Laboratory, Department of Pathology, Molecular and Cell-Based Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA
| | - Sergio Castañeda
- Centro de Investigaciones en Microbiología y Biotecnología-UR (CIMBIUR), Facultad de Ciencias Naturales, Universidad del Rosario, Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Milena Camargo
- Centro de Investigaciones en Microbiología y Biotecnología-UR (CIMBIUR), Facultad de Ciencias Naturales, Universidad del Rosario, Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Li Yong Cao
- Molecular Microbiology Laboratory, Department of Pathology, Molecular and Cell-Based Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA
| | - Bernadette Liggayu
- Molecular Microbiology Laboratory, Department of Pathology, Molecular and Cell-Based Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA
| | - Alberto Paniz-Mondolfi
- Molecular Microbiology Laboratory, Department of Pathology, Molecular and Cell-Based Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA
| | - Juan David Ramírez
- Centro de Investigaciones en Microbiología y Biotecnología-UR (CIMBIUR), Facultad de Ciencias Naturales, Universidad del Rosario, Bogotá, Colombia; Molecular Microbiology Laboratory, Department of Pathology, Molecular and Cell-Based Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Panicker VP, Narayanan A, Sreedharan Nair AK, Krishnan A, Ajay N, Kumar V. Standardization of quantitative PCR (qPCR) method to detect the level of parasitaemia in Babesia gibsoni infected dogs. J Microbiol Methods 2024; 224:107009. [PMID: 39098402 DOI: 10.1016/j.mimet.2024.107009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2024] [Revised: 07/31/2024] [Accepted: 07/31/2024] [Indexed: 08/06/2024]
Abstract
The present investigation aimed to quantitatively assess the level of parasitemia in dogs using qPCR.The dogs selected for this study were infected with the haemoprotozoan parasite Babesia gibsoni. In the study, dogs diagnosed with babesiosis were divided into two groups (n = 12) and subjected to distinct treatment strategies. The first group received clindamycin-metronidazole-doxycycline (CMD) therapy, while the second group was treated with a combination of buparvaquone-azithromycin (BPV-AZM). The level of parasitemia in the infected dogs was determined using an absolute quantification-based qPCR method. This assessment was conducted both prior to initiating the treatment and on the 10th day following the commencement of the treatment protocols. On the tenth day after the initiation of treatment, the CMD group exhibited a lower level of parasitemia in comparison to the BPV-AZM group. In the CMD treated groups, the mean parasitemia decreased from 4.9E + 06 to 3.4E + 06, indicating a reduction in parasitic load. Conversely, in the BPV-AZM treatment groups, the mean parasitemia increased from 1.62E + 06 to 2.87E + 06, suggesting an increase in parasitic load. On the 10th day, the CMD-treated group demonstrated a statistically significant decline in the level of parasitemia, with a P-value of ≤0.001. This indicates a strong and significant reduction in parasitic load following the CMD treatment. Therefore, the absolute quantification-based qPCR method could effectively assess the initial treatment response by measuring the level of parasitemia.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Varuna Purushothama Panicker
- Department of Veterinary Biochemistry, College of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Kerala Veterinary and Animal Sciences University, Pookode, Wayanad, India.
| | - Athira Narayanan
- University Veterinary Hospital & Teaching Veterinary Clinical Complex, Kerala Veterinary and Animal Sciences University, Pookode, Wayanad, India
| | - Ajith Kumar Sreedharan Nair
- University Veterinary Hospital & Teaching Veterinary Clinical Complex, Kerala Veterinary and Animal Sciences University, Pookode, Wayanad, India
| | - Anjaly Krishnan
- Project Scientist B, IHCI, NIE-ICMR, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600077, India
| | - Nimna Ajay
- Department of Veterinary Biochemistry, College of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Kerala Veterinary and Animal Sciences University, Pookode, Wayanad, India
| | - Vinod Kumar
- Department of Veterinary Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine, College of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Kerala Veterinary and Animal Sciences University, Pookode, Wayanad, India
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Springer A, Jordan D, Höltershinken M, Barutzki D, Strube C. Endemisation and management of Babesia divergens on a beef production farm. CURRENT RESEARCH IN PARASITOLOGY & VECTOR-BORNE DISEASES 2024; 6:100188. [PMID: 39027083 PMCID: PMC11252781 DOI: 10.1016/j.crpvbd.2024.100188] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2024] [Revised: 06/10/2024] [Accepted: 06/13/2024] [Indexed: 07/20/2024]
Abstract
The hard tick Ixodes ricinus transmits a variety of zoonotic pathogens, including Babesia divergens, the most common cause of bovine babesiosis in northern Europe. In endemic areas, cattle are rarely clinically affected, as animals up to the age of nine months are resistant against relevant clinical disease and develop protective premunity. However, outbreaks in immunologically naïve herds may lead to considerable losses. Such an outbreak with a high mortality rate occurred in 2018 on a northern German beef production farm, as previously reported. The present study provides an update on the epidemiological situation and management strategy of the farm. In spring 2022, blood samples were taken from 46 animals for PCR and serological testing before pasture turnout. Although no clinical cases had been noticed since 2019, B. divergens DNA was detected by quantitative real-time PCR (qPCR), followed by amplification and sequencing of the 18S rRNA gene, in 6.5% (3/46) of cattle blood samples. Presence of anti-B. divergens antibodies was confirmed in 26.1% (12/46) of animals, while further 10.9% (5/46) had a borderline antibody titre. The antibody status of 23 of these animals had already been determined in 2018 and/or 2020, revealing fluctuating titre patterns indicative of repeated pathogen exposure. Moreover, 457 questing I. ricinus specimens collected on the farm's pastures and 83 I. ricinus specimens detached from cattle were screened for Babesia spp. DNA by qPCR, followed by 18S rDNA amplification and sequencing. Endemisation of B. divergens was confirmed by 0.9% (4/457) positive questing I. ricinus, while the ticks detached from cattle were Babesia-negative. The farm's management strategy includes annual metaphylactic treatment with imidocarb dipropionate during the main tick exposure period in spring. However, the antibody titre fluctuations and the persistent infections at the end of the housing period indicate that the absence of clinical disease is primarily due to a rising level of premunity. Metaphylactic treatment with imidocarb seems to be a suitable management option to protect newly acquired immunologically naïve animals. The endemisation of B. divergens is also of public health significance, as the pastures are located close to a tourist destination in a popular hiking area.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Springer
- Institute for Parasitology, Centre for Infection Medicine, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Buenteweg 17, 30559, Hanover, Germany
| | - Daniela Jordan
- Institute for Parasitology, Centre for Infection Medicine, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Buenteweg 17, 30559, Hanover, Germany
| | - Martin Höltershinken
- Clinic for Cattle, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Bischofsholer Damm 15, 30173, Hanover, Germany
| | - Dieter Barutzki
- Tierärztliches Labor Freiburg GmbH, Engesserstraße 4b, 79108, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Christina Strube
- Institute for Parasitology, Centre for Infection Medicine, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Buenteweg 17, 30559, Hanover, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Springer A, Lindau A, Probst J, Fachet K, Schäfer I, Dobler G, Mackenstedt U, Strube C. Germany-wide citizen science study reveals spread of Babesia canis-infected Dermacentor reticulatus ticks by dogs travelling within the country. CURRENT RESEARCH IN PARASITOLOGY & VECTOR-BORNE DISEASES 2024; 6:100187. [PMID: 39027085 PMCID: PMC11253222 DOI: 10.1016/j.crpvbd.2024.100187] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2024] [Revised: 06/07/2024] [Accepted: 06/10/2024] [Indexed: 07/20/2024]
Abstract
The ornate dog tick Dermacentor reticulatus, vector of Babesia canis, has shown a considerable range expansion in several European countries. Previously, only few areas in Germany were recognised as endemic for B. canis, but a marked increase in autochthonous canine babesiosis cases and spread to new areas has been noted recently. To better assess the current risk for dogs, the present study screened 5913 specimens of D. reticulatus from all over Germany, collected in the frame of a Citizen Science study during 2019-2023. Moreover, 343 Dermacentor marginatus ticks were also included. Babesia detection was achieved by quantitative real-time PCR (qPCR). Positive samples were confirmed by sequencing. Moreover, a MGB-probe-based triplex qPCR was established to detect and distinguish between the canine Babesia spp. relevant in Europe, i.e. B. canis, Babesia vogeli and Babesia gibsoni. Overall, B. canis DNA was detected in five D. reticulatus specimens (0.08%). Two of the B. canis-positive ticks originated from areas previously known as endemic for canine babesiosis, namely from the area of Freiburg im Breisgau, federal state of Baden-Wuerttemberg, and from the district St. Wendel, federal state of Saarland. Three further B. canis-positive ticks were detected in districts not yet recognised as endemic, one each in the district of Mansfeld-Suedharz, federal state of Saxony-Anhalt, the district of Ravensburg, federal state of Baden-Wuerttemberg and in the city of Fürth, federal state of Bavaria. However, the tick in Fürth was found on a dog who had returned from a trip to the Breisgau region on the previous day, indicating translocation of the specimen out of this well-known endemic focus. The geographical distribution of the positive samples shows that B. canis is currently spreading in Germany, particularly via dogs travelling within the country, increasing the infection risk throughout the country. Important measures to contain a further spread of the pathogen include comprehensive year-round tick prophylaxis with licensed acaricides, not only to protect the individual pet, but also the entire dog population. Moreover, screening of dogs entering Germany from B. canis-endemic countries is required and any treatment should aim at pathogen elimination by use of appropriate imidocarb dosages.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Springer
- Institute for Parasitology, Centre for Infection Medicine, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Buenteweg 17, 30559, Hanover, Germany
| | - Alexander Lindau
- Institute of Biology, Department of Parasitology, University of Hohenheim, Emil-Wolff-Straße 34, 70599, Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Julia Probst
- Institute for Parasitology, Centre for Infection Medicine, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Buenteweg 17, 30559, Hanover, Germany
| | - Katrin Fachet
- Institute of Biology, Department of Parasitology, University of Hohenheim, Emil-Wolff-Straße 34, 70599, Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Ingo Schäfer
- LABOKLIN GmbH and Co. KG, Bad Kissingen, Steubenstraße 4, 97688, Bad Kissingen, Germany
| | - Gerhard Dobler
- Institute of Biology, Department of Parasitology, University of Hohenheim, Emil-Wolff-Straße 34, 70599, Stuttgart, Germany
- Bundeswehr Institute of Microbiology, Neuherbergstr. 11, 80937, Munich, Germany
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine, Medical Center of the University of Munich (LMU), Munich, Germany
| | - Ute Mackenstedt
- Institute of Biology, Department of Parasitology, University of Hohenheim, Emil-Wolff-Straße 34, 70599, Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Christina Strube
- Institute for Parasitology, Centre for Infection Medicine, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Buenteweg 17, 30559, Hanover, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Jacob SS, Sengupta PP, Kumar HBC, Maharana SM, Goudar A, Chandu AGS, Rakshitha TS, Shivakumar V, Gulati BR, Reddy GBM. Unveiling genotypic diversity of Theileria orientalis in lethal outbreaks among bovines in Karnataka, India. Parasitol Res 2024; 123:202. [PMID: 38703234 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-024-08227-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2023] [Accepted: 04/29/2024] [Indexed: 05/06/2024]
Abstract
Theileria orientalis, the causal agent of oriental theileriosis, is known to cause mild disease in cattle and buffalo across the world. Recently, different genotypes of T. orientalis have emerged as pathogenic, causing high reported morbidity in cattle. This study focuses on investigating three suspected outbreaks of oriental theileriosis that resulted in fatalities among crossbred and indigenous bulls in Karnataka, India. Examination of blood smears revealed the presence of T. orientalis piroplasms within erythrocytes. The genetic characterization of T. orientalis was conducted by targeting specific markers, including the mpsp gene, p23 gene, and ribosomal DNA markers (18S rRNA gene, ITS-1, and ITS-2). Analysis based on the 18S rRNA gene unveiled the presence of both Type A and Type E genotypes of T. orientalis in the outbreaks. The mpsp gene-based analysis identified genotype 7 of T. orientalis in crossbred cows, whereas genotype 1 (Chitose B) was found to be present in indigenous bulls. Haplotype network analysis based on the mpsp gene revealed the presence of 39 distinct haplotypes within the 12 defined genotypes of T. orientalis with a high haplotype diversity of 0.9545 ± 0.017. Hematological and biochemical analysis revealed a decrease in calcium, hemoglobin levels, red blood cell counts, and phosphorus. This study constitutes the initial documentation of a clinical outbreak of oriental theileriosis in indigenous bulls with genotype 1 (Chitose 1B). Substantial epidemiological investigations are imperative to gain a comprehensive understanding of the geographical distribution of distinct genotypes and the diverse clinical manifestations of the disease across various hosts.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Siju Susan Jacob
- ICAR National Institute of Veterinary Epidemiology and Disease Informatics, Ramagondanahalli, Yelahanka, Bengaluru, 560064, Karnataka, India
| | - Pinaki Prasad Sengupta
- ICAR National Institute of Veterinary Epidemiology and Disease Informatics, Ramagondanahalli, Yelahanka, Bengaluru, 560064, Karnataka, India
| | - H B Chethan Kumar
- ICAR National Institute of Veterinary Epidemiology and Disease Informatics, Ramagondanahalli, Yelahanka, Bengaluru, 560064, Karnataka, India
| | - S Madhaba Maharana
- ICAR National Institute of Veterinary Epidemiology and Disease Informatics, Ramagondanahalli, Yelahanka, Bengaluru, 560064, Karnataka, India
| | - Akshata Goudar
- ICAR National Institute of Veterinary Epidemiology and Disease Informatics, Ramagondanahalli, Yelahanka, Bengaluru, 560064, Karnataka, India
| | - A G S Chandu
- ICAR National Institute of Veterinary Epidemiology and Disease Informatics, Ramagondanahalli, Yelahanka, Bengaluru, 560064, Karnataka, India
| | - T S Rakshitha
- ICAR National Institute of Veterinary Epidemiology and Disease Informatics, Ramagondanahalli, Yelahanka, Bengaluru, 560064, Karnataka, India
| | - V Shivakumar
- Veterinary College, KVAFSU, Hassan, Karnataka, India
| | - Baldev R Gulati
- ICAR National Institute of Veterinary Epidemiology and Disease Informatics, Ramagondanahalli, Yelahanka, Bengaluru, 560064, Karnataka, India
| | | |
Collapse
|
7
|
Chand M, Vydyam P, Pal AC, Thekkiniath J, Darif D, Li Z, Choi JY, Magni R, Luchini A, Tonnetti L, Horn EJ, Tufts DM, Ben Mamoun C. A Set of Diagnostic Tests for Detection of Active Babesia duncani Infection. MEDRXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR HEALTH SCIENCES 2024:2024.03.25.24304816. [PMID: 38585766 PMCID: PMC10996717 DOI: 10.1101/2024.03.25.24304816] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/09/2024]
Abstract
Human babesiosis is a rapidly emerging and potentially fatal tick-borne disease caused by intraerythrocytic apicomplexan parasites of the Babesia genus. Among the various species of Babesia that infect humans, B. duncani has been found to cause severe and life-threatening infections. Detection of active B. duncani infection is critical for accurate diagnosis and effective management of the disease. While molecular assays for the detection of B. duncani infection in blood are available, a reliable strategy to detect biomarkers of active infection has not yet been developed. Here, we report the development of the first B. duncani antigen capture assays that rely on the detection of two B. duncani -exported immunodominant antigens, BdV234 and BdV38. The assays were validated using blood samples from cultured parasites in human erythrocytes and B. duncani -infected laboratory mice at different parasitemia levels and following therapy. The assays display high specificity with no cross-reactivity with B. microti , B. divergens , Babesia MO1, or P. falciparum. The assay also demonstrates high sensitivity, detecting as low as 115 infected erythrocytes/µl of blood. Screening of 1,731 blood samples from diverse biorepositories, including previously identified Lyme and/or B. microti positive human samples and new specimens from field mice, showed no evidence of B. duncani infection in these samples. The assays could be useful in diverse diagnostic scenarios, including point-of-care testing for early B. duncani infection detection in patients, field tests for screening reservoir hosts, and high-throughput screening such as blood collected for transfusion. Short summary We developed two ELISA-based assays, BdACA38 and BdACA234, for detecting B. duncani , a potentially fatal tick-borne parasite causing human babesiosis. The assays target two immunodominant antigens, BdV234 and BdV38, demonstrating high specificity (no cross-reactivity with other Babesia species or Plasmodium falciparum ) and sensitivity (detecting as low as 115 infected erythrocytes/µl). The assays were validated using in vitro-cultured parasites and infected mice. Screening diverse blood samples showed no evidence of B. duncani active infection among 1,731 human and field mice blood samples collected from the north-eastern, midwestern, and western US. These assays offer potential in diverse diagnostic scenarios, including early patient detection, reservoir animal screening, and transfusion-transmitted babesiosis prevention.
Collapse
|
8
|
Anderson KL, Birkenheuer A, Moore GE, Kendall A. A retrospective study of vector borne disease prevalence among anemic dogs in North Carolina. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0293901. [PMID: 37939135 PMCID: PMC10631695 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0293901] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2023] [Accepted: 10/20/2023] [Indexed: 11/10/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Anemia is an important cause of morbidity and mortality in dogs. Further understanding of the prevalence of vector borne diseases (VBD) in anemic dogs is needed. OBJECTIVES The objective of this retrospective study was to describe the rate of exposure to or infection with VBD among anemic dogs presented to a teaching hospital in North Carolina and to further characterize the anemia in dogs with VBD exposure. ANIMALS A total of 597 anemic dogs that were concurrently tested for VBD were examined at a referral veterinary hospital between January 2012 and December 2018. METHODS Retrospective descriptive study. Demographic, clinicopathologic, and VBD testing data were obtained from medical records. RESULTS Of the 597 anemic dogs examined, 180 (30.15%; 95% CI: 26.49-34.01%) tested positive for one or more VBD. There was no difference in the severity of anemia or the proportion of dogs displaying a regenerative anemia between dogs testing positive and negative for VBD. CONCLUSIONS A large proportion of anemic dogs from this region test positive for exposure to or infection with VBD. Our study supported the use of PCR and serology run in parallel to maximize the chance of detecting exposure to or infection with VBD compared to either serology or PCR alone. At this time, it is unknown whether infection with VBD contributed to the development of anemia in these patients. However, given the prevalence of VBD exposure in anemic dogs, testing for VBD in anemic patients from this region of the United States is warranted.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Katie L. Anderson
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, NC State University College of Veterinary Medicine, Raleigh, NC, United States of America
| | - Adam Birkenheuer
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, NC State University College of Veterinary Medicine, Raleigh, NC, United States of America
| | - George E. Moore
- Department of Veterinary Administration, Purdue University College of Veterinary Medicine, West Lafayette, IN, United States of America
| | - Allison Kendall
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, NC State University College of Veterinary Medicine, Raleigh, NC, United States of America
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Araújo IM, de Azevedo Baêta B, Magalhães-Matos PC, Guterres A, da Silva CB, da Fonseca AH, Cordeiro MD. Molecular survey of potentially pathogenic microorganisms in ticks collected from coatis (Nasua nasua) in Iguaçu National Park, Atlantic Forest biome, southern Brazil. Parasitol Res 2023; 122:2367-2377. [PMID: 37587388 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-023-07937-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2023] [Accepted: 08/03/2023] [Indexed: 08/18/2023]
Abstract
Human contact with wild animals in synanthropic habits is often mediated by arthropod vectors such as ticks. This is an important method of spreading infectious agents that pose a risk to human health. Thus, this study aimed to molecularly detect Ehrlichia spp., Anaplasma spp., Borrelia spp., and protozoa of the order Piroplasmida in ticks collected from coatis of Iguaçu National Park (PNI), Paraná, Brazil. This study involved 553 ticks DNA, including Amblyomma spp. larvae, Haemaphysalis juxtakochi nymphs, Amblyomma brasiliense, Amblyomma coelebs, and adults of Amblyomma ovale. The DNA extracted from each sample was subjected to polymerase chain reaction (PCR) targeting the genes 23S rRNA for the Anaplasmataceae family, 16S rRNA for Anaplasma spp., dsb for Ehrlichia spp., flaB, 16S rRNA, hpt, and glpQ for Borrelia spp., and 18S rRNA for Piroplasmid protozoans. DNA from Anaplasma sp. was detected in ticks of the species A. coelebs (4/553); Borrelia sp. DNA was detected in A. coelebs (3/553), A. ovale (1/553), and Amblyomma larvae (1/553); and Theileria sp. was detected in A. coelebs (2/553). All tested samples were negative for Ehrlichia spp. Our study constitutes the newest report in South America of these microorganisms, which remain poorly studied.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Izabela Mesquita Araújo
- Post-Graduate Program in Veterinary Sciences, Federal Rural University of Rio de Janeiro, UFRRJ, Br 465, km 7, Highway BR 465, Km 7,5 Seropédica, Rio de Janeiro, CEP: 23891-000, Brazil
| | - Bruna de Azevedo Baêta
- Post-Graduate Program in Veterinary Sciences, Federal Rural University of Rio de Janeiro, UFRRJ, Br 465, km 7, Highway BR 465, Km 7,5 Seropédica, Rio de Janeiro, CEP: 23891-000, Brazil
| | | | - Alexandro Guterres
- Laboratory of Hantaviruses and Rickettsiosis, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz-Avenida Brasil, Rio de Janeiro, 4365, Brazil
| | - Cláudia Bezerra da Silva
- Post-Graduate Program in Veterinary Sciences, Federal Rural University of Rio de Janeiro, UFRRJ, Br 465, km 7, Highway BR 465, Km 7,5 Seropédica, Rio de Janeiro, CEP: 23891-000, Brazil
| | - Adivaldo Henrique da Fonseca
- Post-Graduate Program in Veterinary Sciences, Federal Rural University of Rio de Janeiro, UFRRJ, Br 465, km 7, Highway BR 465, Km 7,5 Seropédica, Rio de Janeiro, CEP: 23891-000, Brazil
| | - Matheus Dias Cordeiro
- Post-Graduate Program in Practice in Sustainable Development, Federal Rural University of Rio de Janeiro, UFRRJ, Seropédica, Rio de Janeiro state, Brazil.
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
de Oliveira CM, Yang TS, Duarte MA, Marr H, McManus CM, André MR, Birkenheuer AJ, Paludo GR. Canine piroplasmids: Molecular detection and laboratory characterization in dogs from Brasilia, Brazil, with the first molecular evidence of dog exposure to a novel opossum-associated Babesia sp. Ticks Tick Borne Dis 2023; 14:102181. [PMID: 37084584 PMCID: PMC10698754 DOI: 10.1016/j.ttbdis.2023.102181] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2022] [Revised: 12/17/2022] [Accepted: 03/17/2023] [Indexed: 04/23/2023]
Abstract
Canine piroplasmid infections can be caused by Babesia spp., Theileria spp. and Rangelia vitalii. In Brazil, canine babesiosis caused by Babesia vogeli is endemic and reported throughout the country. On the other hand, Rangeliosis caused by R. vitalii has only been described so far in the South and Southeast regions. Despite that, studies analyzing the laboratory and molecular characterization of these hemoprotozoa are still scarce. To investigate the occurrence, the laboratory features, the molecular characterization, and the diversity of piroplasmids from Midwestern Brazil, a survey was performed using blood samples obtained from 276 domestic dogs from Brasília, Federal District, Midwestern Brazil. A broad-range quantitative PCR (qPCR) targeting the mitochondrial large subunit ribosomal DNA (LSU4) was used to detect piroplasmid DNA. The overall molecular occurrence of piroplasmids was 11.2% (31/276), with 9.7% (27/276) of the sequences identified as Babesia vogeli (98-100% identity to B. vogeli isolate from the USA). Based on a partial 18S rRNA sequence pairwise alignment (-250 bp), 1.4% (4/276) of the sequences showed only 76.8% identity with B. vogeli but 100% identity with opossum-associated Babesia sp. (MW290046-53). These findings suggest the exposure of dogs from Brazil to a recently described Babesia sp. isolated from white-eared opossum. None of the analyzed dogs was positive for Theileria spp. or R. vitalii. Subsequently, all positive sequences were submitted to three additional PCR assays based on the 18S rRNA, cox-1, and cytb genes, aiming at performing a haplotype network analysis. Haplotype network using cox-1 sequences showed the presence of six different haplotypes of B. vogeli; one of them was shared with isolates from Brazil, the USA, and India. When including animals co-infected with other vector-borne diseases, piroplasmid-positive dogs had 2.3 times higher chance of having thrombocytopenia than the negative ones. The molecular results demonstrated that the compared Babesia vogeli sequences showed a low variability as well as evidence of exposure to a putative novel opossum-associated Babesia sp. in dogs from Midwestern Brazil.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Camila Manoel de Oliveira
- Laboratório de Patologia Clínica Veterinária, Faculdade de Agronomia e Medicina Veterinária (FAV/UnB), Universidade de Brasília, Campus Universitário Darcy Ribeiro, ICC Centro - Asa Norte, CEP, Brasília, Distrito Federal 70910-900, Brazil
| | - Tzushan Sharon Yang
- Department of Clinical Sciences, North Carolina State College of Veterinary Medicine, Raleigh, North Carolina
| | - Matheus Almeida Duarte
- Laboratório de Patologia Clínica Veterinária, Faculdade de Agronomia e Medicina Veterinária (FAV/UnB), Universidade de Brasília, Campus Universitário Darcy Ribeiro, ICC Centro - Asa Norte, CEP, Brasília, Distrito Federal 70910-900, Brazil
| | - Henry Marr
- Department of Clinical Sciences, North Carolina State College of Veterinary Medicine, Raleigh, North Carolina
| | - Concepta Margaret McManus
- Departamento de Ciências Fisiológicas, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade de Brasília, Brasília, Distrito Federal, Brazil
| | - Marcos Rogério André
- Laboratório de Imunoparasitologia, Departamento de Patologia, Reprodução e Saúde Única, Faculdade de Ciências Agrárias e Veterinárias Júlio de Mesquita Filho (UNESP), Jaboticabal São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Adam Joseph Birkenheuer
- Department of Clinical Sciences, North Carolina State College of Veterinary Medicine, Raleigh, North Carolina
| | - Giane Regina Paludo
- Laboratório de Patologia Clínica Veterinária, Faculdade de Agronomia e Medicina Veterinária (FAV/UnB), Universidade de Brasília, Campus Universitário Darcy Ribeiro, ICC Centro - Asa Norte, CEP, Brasília, Distrito Federal 70910-900, Brazil.
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Krishnamoorthy P, Parween N, Sangeetha TR, Jacob SS, Ballari S, Suresh KP. Epidemiological analysis of cattle ticks and tick-borne pathogens in Gadag district, Karnataka state in India. J Parasit Dis 2023; 47:387-399. [PMID: 37193487 PMCID: PMC10182199 DOI: 10.1007/s12639-023-01584-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2022] [Accepted: 04/05/2023] [Indexed: 05/18/2023] Open
Abstract
In the present study, epidemiological analysis on 839 ticks collected from 50 cattle in Gadag district, Karnataka state, tick identification and detection of tick-borne pathogens was conducted by PCR, sequencing, and phylogeny. The morphological identification revealed that Haemaphysalis spp. [48.6%], Rhipicephalus spp. [48.4%], and Hyalomma spp. [3.0%] tick genera in Gadag district. Further, a higher infestation of Haemaphysalis spp. [69.0%] and Rhipicephalus spp. [62.3%] in Shirahatti and Gadag taluk, respectively was observed. Based on the taluk-wise and tick genus-wise analysis, a higher number of ticks was present in the dewlap region of cattle body sites, except for Hyalomma spp., the majority of which was present in the neck. Tick genus prevalence was 45.1, 42.7%, and 12.2 for Haemaphysalis spp., Rhipicephalus spp., and Hyalomma spp., respectively. The mean tick per cattle was 11.6, 11.0, and 2.5 for Rhipicephalus spp., Haemaphysalis spp., and Hyalomma spp., respectively. The prevalence of Anaplasma marginale, Babesia spp., and Rickettsia rickettsii was 8.0, 6.4, and 6.4%, respectively in the tick DNA samples and was negative for Ehrlichia and Theileria spp. The sequencing of the cytochrome oxidase subunit 1 gene revealed the presence of Haemaphysalis bispinosa, Rhipicephalus decoloratus, and Rhipicephalus microplus tick species in the Gadag district. The phylogenetic analysis revealed the tick species have similarities and identity with the isolates from India and neighboring countries. Thus, the study provides knowledge on tick genus distribution and tick-borne pathogens in Gadag district, Karnataka which will help in developing the control and prevention strategies by the policymakers and for profitable dairy farming by farmers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Paramanandham Krishnamoorthy
- Pathoepidemiology Laboratory, ICAR- National Institute of Veterinary Epidemiology and Disease Informatics (NIVEDI), Ramagondanahalli, Yelahanka, Post Box No. 6450, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560064 India
| | - Nahid Parween
- Pathoepidemiology Laboratory, ICAR- National Institute of Veterinary Epidemiology and Disease Informatics (NIVEDI), Ramagondanahalli, Yelahanka, Post Box No. 6450, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560064 India
| | - Tadaga Revanaiah Sangeetha
- Pathoepidemiology Laboratory, ICAR- National Institute of Veterinary Epidemiology and Disease Informatics (NIVEDI), Ramagondanahalli, Yelahanka, Post Box No. 6450, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560064 India
| | - Siju Susan Jacob
- Parasitology Laboratory, ICAR- National Institute of Veterinary Epidemiology and Disease Informatics (NIVEDI), Ramagondanahalli, Yelahanka, Post Box No. 6450, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560064 India
| | | | - Kuralayanapalya Puttahonappa Suresh
- Spatial Epidemiology Laboratory, ICAR- National Institute of Veterinary Epidemiology and Disease Informatics (NIVEDI), Ramagondanahalli, Yelahanka, Post Box No. 6450, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560064 India
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Furman H, Scimeca RC. Detection of Babesia conradae in Coyotes (Canis latrans) and Coyote-Hunting Greyhound Dogs (Canis familiaris). Pathogens 2023; 12:pathogens12040528. [PMID: 37111414 PMCID: PMC10143829 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens12040528] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2023] [Revised: 03/21/2023] [Accepted: 03/24/2023] [Indexed: 03/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Babesia conradae is a small piroplasm previously detected in coyote-hunting Greyhound dogs in California and Oklahoma. In dogs, B. conradae causes clinical signs similar to other tick-borne illnesses, and if not treated it can lead to acute kidney injury and other life-threating complications. To date, the life cycle of this apicomplexan parasite has not been fully described, but suggestions of direct contact or tick transmission have been proposed. The purpose of this study was to test coyote tissue samples from coyotes hunted by Greyhound dogs with a history of B. conradae infection to determine if this parasite is present in the coyote population in Northwestern Oklahoma. The analyzed tissue samples included liver, lung and tongue samples collected by hunters. DNA was isolated from these tissues and assessed by RT-PCR of the 18S rRNA and PCR of the COX1 genes for B. conradae. A total of 66 dogs and 38 coyotes were tested, and the results demonstrated the presence of B. conradae DNA in 21 dogs (31.8%) and 4 coyotes (10.5%). These results indicate that B. conradae is present in the dog and coyote population from the same area and that direct contact with coyotes may increase the risk of infection in dogs. Further studies are required to test possible modes of transmission, including direct bite, tick or vertical transmission.
Collapse
|
13
|
Muguiro DH, Nekouei O, Lee KY, Hill F, Barrs VR. Prevalence of Babesia and Ehrlichia in owned dogs with suspected tick-borne infection in Hong Kong, and risk factors associated with Babesia gibsoni. Prev Vet Med 2023; 214:105908. [PMID: 37004500 DOI: 10.1016/j.prevetmed.2023.105908] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2022] [Revised: 03/21/2023] [Accepted: 03/27/2023] [Indexed: 03/31/2023]
Abstract
Babesiosis and ehrlichiosis are the most clinically significant tick-borne infections in dogs. Although epidemiological investigations of these diseases have been performed in some Asian regions, little data is available in Hong Kong, where competent vector tick species are endemic. The objectives of this study were to determine the molecular prevalence of Ehrlichia canis and Babesia species (B. canis, B. gibsoni, B. vogeli) in owned dogs suspected of tick-borne infection in Hong Kong and to identify risk factors associated with B. gibsoni infection. Electronic records from the Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory of City University of Hong Kong were searched to identify canine blood samples submitted for molecular testing of these pathogens by real time PCR between March 2018 and May 2021. Electronic patient records from the affiliated veterinary hospital were searched to identify a subset of tested dogs to investigate the potential risk factors for B. gibsoni infection using logistic regression models. Among 1508 tested dogs for all four pathogens of interest, Babesia spp. were detected in 435 (28.8%) and E. canis in 112 (7.4%). Babesia gibsoni was detected in 408 dogs while B. vogeli was detected in 27 dogs. Babesia canis was not detected in any dog. Co-infections of different combinations of B. gibsoni, B. vogeli and E. canis were present in 25 dogs. In multivariable logistic regression, mixed breed dogs were more likely to be infected with B. gibsoni than purebreds (P = 0.005), while dogs > 10 years of age were less likely to be infected than younger dogs (P = 0.019). Hematological abnormalities significantly associated with B. gibsoni infection included thrombocytopenia, neutropenia, or pancytopenia. Babesiosis caused by B. gibsoni is a common infection in owned dogs suspected of tick-borne infection in Hong Kong. The risk factors reported should be considered in diagnosing dogs suspected of infection with this agent. Furthermore, consideration for testing for B. gibsoni infection should be given if the results of a complete blood count show thrombocytopenia even in the absence of anemia, neutropenia or pancytopenia.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Daniela Hernandez Muguiro
- Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon Tong, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of China
| | - Omid Nekouei
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Public Health, Jockey Club College of Veterinary Medicine and Life Sciences, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon Tong, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of China
| | - Kei Ying Lee
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Public Health, Jockey Club College of Veterinary Medicine and Life Sciences, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon Tong, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of China
| | - Fraser Hill
- Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon Tong, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of China
| | - Vanessa R Barrs
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, Jockey Club College of Veterinary Medicine and Life Sciences, and Centre for Animal Health and Welfare, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon Tong, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of China.
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Addo SO, Bentil RE, Yartey KN, Ansah-Owusu J, Behene E, Opoku-Agyeman P, Bruku S, Asoala V, Mate S, Larbi JA, Baidoo PK, Wilson MD, Diclaro JW, Dadzie SK. First molecular identification of multiple tick-borne pathogens in livestock within Kassena-Nankana, Ghana. ANIMAL DISEASES 2023. [DOI: 10.1186/s44149-022-00064-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
AbstractThe risk of pathogen transmission continues to increase significantly in the presence of tick vectors due to the trade of livestock across countries. In Ghana, there is a lack of data on the incidence of tick-borne pathogens that are of zoonotic and veterinary importance. This study, therefore, aimed to determine the prevalence of such pathogens in livestock using molecular approaches. A total of 276 dry blood spots were collected from cattle (100), sheep (95) and goats (81) in the Kassena-Nankana Districts. The samples were analyzed using Polymerase Chain Reaction (qPCR) and conventional assays and Sanger sequencing that targeted pathogens including Rickettsia, Coxiella, Babesia, Theileria, Ehrlichia and Anaplasma. An overall prevalence of 36.96% was recorded from the livestock DBS, with mixed infections seen in 7.97% samples. Furthermore, the prevalence of infections in livestock was recorded to be 19.21% in sheep, 14.13% in cattle, and 3.62% in goats. The pathogens identified were Rickettsia spp. (3.26%), Babesia sp. Lintan (8.70%), Theileria orientalis (2.17%), Theileria parva (0.36%), Anaplasma capra (18.48%), Anaplasma phagocytophilum (1.81%), Anaplasma marginale (3.26%) and Anaplasma ovis (7.25%). This study reports the first molecular identification of the above-mentioned pathogens in livestock in Ghana and highlights the use of dry blood spots in resource-limited settings. In addition, this research provides an update on tick-borne pathogens in Ghana, suggesting risks to livestock production and human health. Further studies will be essential to establish the distribution and epidemiology of these pathogens in Ghana.
Collapse
|
15
|
Araújo IM, Cordeiro MD, Soares RFP, Guterres A, Sanavria A, Baêta BDA, da Fonseca AH. Survey of bacterial and protozoan agents in ticks and fleas found on wild animals in the state of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Ticks Tick Borne Dis 2022; 13:102037. [PMID: 36270115 DOI: 10.1016/j.ttbdis.2022.102037] [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: 04/29/2021] [Revised: 08/18/2022] [Accepted: 08/26/2022] [Indexed: 10/31/2022]
Abstract
This study evaluates the presence of bacterial and protozoan agents in ticks and fleas found on wild animals in the state of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. These ectoparasites were collected on mammal species Hydrochoerus hydrochaeris, Tapirus terrestris, Dicotyles tajacu, Didelphis aurita, Cuniculus paca, Cerdocyon thous, and Coendou prehensilis, and on the terrestrial bird Dromaius novaehollandiae. Ticks and fleas were identified morphologically using specific taxonomic keys. A total of 396 ticks and 54 fleas were tested via polymerase chain reaction (PCR) for the presence of Rickettsia spp., Borrelia spp., microorganisms of the order Piroplasmida and Anaplasmataceae family. This total is distributed among nine tick species of the genus Amblyomma and one flea species. Rickettsia bellii was detected in Amblyomma dubitatum and Amblyomma pacae; Rickettsia sp. strain AL was found in Amblyomma longirostre; Rickettsia parkeri strain Atlantic rainforest was found in Amblyomma ovale; and "Candidatus Rickettsia senegalensis" and Rickettsia felis were detected in Ctenocephalides felis felis. Wolbachia sp. was detected in C. f. felis, and Borrelia sp. was detected in Amblyomma calcaratum (here named Borrelia sp. strain Acalc110). All tested samples were negative for Ehrlichia spp. and microorganisms of the Piroplasmida order. This study detected a new bacterial strain, Borrelia sp. strain Acalc 110 (which is genetically close to B. miyamotoi and B. venezuelensis) and the Rickettsia sp. strain 19P, which is 100% similar to "Ca. R. senegalensis", a bacterium recently discovered and now being reported for the first time in Brazil.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Izabela Mesquita Araújo
- Post-Graduate Program in Veterinary Sciences, Federal Rural University of Rio de Janeiro, UFRRJ, Br 465, km 7, Highway BR 465, Km 7,5. Seropédica, Rio de Janeiro CEP: 23897-000, Brazil
| | - Matheus Dias Cordeiro
- Post-Graduate Program in Practice in Sustainable Development, Federal Rural University of Rio de Janeiro, UFRRJ, Seropédica, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Rubens Fabiano Prado Soares
- Post-Graduate Program in Veterinary Sciences, Federal Rural University of Rio de Janeiro, UFRRJ, Br 465, km 7, Highway BR 465, Km 7,5. Seropédica, Rio de Janeiro CEP: 23897-000, Brazil
| | - Alexandro Guterres
- Laboratório de Hantaviroses e Rickettsioses, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz - Avenida Brasil, Rio de Janeiro 4365, Brazil
| | - Argemiro Sanavria
- Post-Graduate Program in Veterinary Sciences, Federal Rural University of Rio de Janeiro, UFRRJ, Br 465, km 7, Highway BR 465, Km 7,5. Seropédica, Rio de Janeiro CEP: 23897-000, Brazil
| | - Bruna de Azevedo Baêta
- Post-Graduate Program in Veterinary Sciences, Federal Rural University of Rio de Janeiro, UFRRJ, Br 465, km 7, Highway BR 465, Km 7,5. Seropédica, Rio de Janeiro CEP: 23897-000, Brazil
| | - Adivaldo Henrique da Fonseca
- Post-Graduate Program in Veterinary Sciences, Federal Rural University of Rio de Janeiro, UFRRJ, Br 465, km 7, Highway BR 465, Km 7,5. Seropédica, Rio de Janeiro CEP: 23897-000, Brazil.
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Lineberry MW, Grant AN, Sundstrom KD, Little SE, Allen KE. Diversity and geographic distribution of rickettsial agents identified in brown dog ticks from across the United States. Ticks Tick Borne Dis 2022; 13:102050. [PMID: 36194975 DOI: 10.1016/j.ttbdis.2022.102050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2022] [Revised: 08/26/2022] [Accepted: 09/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Rhipicephalus sanguineus sensu lato, or brown dog ticks, transmit a variety of pathogens of veterinary and public health importance globally. Pathogens vectored by brown dog ticks and identified in the United States include Babesia vogeli, Ehrlichia canis, and several spotted fever group Rickettsia spp. (SFGR). Due to the challenge of collecting canine blood samples nationwide to screen for exposure to these pathogens, we took an indirect approach and tested brown dog ticks for molecular evidence of infection. Brown dog ticks (616 adults and 65 nymphs) collected from dogs and cats across the nation were tested by separate PCR assays detecting Babesia spp., E. canis, and SFGR. While no Babesia sp. was found, we identified rickettsial agents in 3.5% (24/681; 95% CI 2.4-5.2%) of the ticks. Pathogens and related organisms detected in ticks included E. canis (n = 1), Rickettsia amblyommatis (n = 3), Rickettsia massiliae (n = 11), Rickettsia monacensis (n = 3), Rickettsia montanensis (n = 5), and an undefined Rickettsia species (n = 1). These data demonstrate a wider geographic distribution of R. massiliae than previously known, and to the authors' knowledge, reports R. monacensis in brown dog ticks for the first time. Due to the close association that brown dog ticks have with domestic dogs and humans, more research is needed to understand the full array of organisms, some of which are zoonotic, potentially transmitted by this widespread tick complex.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Megan W Lineberry
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Oklahoma State University, 250 McElroy Hall, Stillwater, OK 74078, USA
| | - Amber N Grant
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Oklahoma State University, 250 McElroy Hall, Stillwater, OK 74078, USA
| | - Kellee D Sundstrom
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Oklahoma State University, 250 McElroy Hall, Stillwater, OK 74078, USA
| | - Susan E Little
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Oklahoma State University, 250 McElroy Hall, Stillwater, OK 74078, USA.
| | - Kelly E Allen
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Oklahoma State University, 250 McElroy Hall, Stillwater, OK 74078, USA
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Polsomboon Nelson S, Bourke BP, Badr R, Tarpey J, Caicedo-Quiroga L, Leiva D, Pott M, Cruz A, Chao CC, Achee NL, Grieco JP, Jiang L, Jiang J, Farris CM, Linton YM. Ticks (Acari: Ixodidae) and Associated Pathoge Collected From Domestic Animals and Vegetation in Stann Creek District, Southeastern Belize, Central America. JOURNAL OF MEDICAL ENTOMOLOGY 2022; 59:1749-1755. [PMID: 35904108 PMCID: PMC9473654 DOI: 10.1093/jme/tjac112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2022] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
Data on the prevalence and distribution of ticks and tick-borne diseases in Belize are lacking. Ticks (n = 564) collected from dogs, horses, and vegetation in two villages in Stann Creek District in southeastern Belize in 2018, were molecularly identified and screened for tick-borne nonviral human pathogens. The identity of 417 ticks was molecularly confirmed by DNA barcoding as Rhipicephalus sanguineus (Latreille) (66.43%), Amblyomma ovale Koch (15.59%), Dermacentor nitens Neumann (11.51%), Amblyomma sp. ADB0528 (3.6%), and the remainder being small records (2.87%) of Amblyomma coelebs Neumann, Amblyomma imitator Kohls, Amblyomma tapirellum Dunn, Amblyomma auricularium Conil, and Amblyomma maculatum Koch. Individual tick extracts were screened for the presence of Rickettsia spp., Babesia spp., Babesia microti, Borrelia spp., Ehrlichia spp., and Anaplasma spp. using available conventional polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assays. Rickettsia parkeri strain Atlantic Rainforest was identified in five specimens of A. ovale, and one other unidentified tick, all collected from dogs. Another unidentified tick-also collected from a dog-tested positive for an undefined but previously detected Ehrlichia sp. With the exception of D. nitens, all eight other tick species identified in this study were collected on dogs, suggesting that dogs could be usefully employed as sentinel animals for tick surveillance in Belize.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Suppaluck Polsomboon Nelson
- Walter Reed Biosystematics Unit (WRBU), Smithsonian Institution, Museum Support Center, Suitland, MD, USA
- Department of Entomology, National Museum of Natural History, Smithsonian Institution, Washington, DC, USA
- Walter Reed Army Institute of Research (WRAIR), One Health Branch, Silver Spring, MD, USA
| | - Brian P Bourke
- Walter Reed Biosystematics Unit (WRBU), Smithsonian Institution, Museum Support Center, uitland, MD, USA
- Department of Entomology, National Museum of Natural History, Smithsonian Institution, Washington, DC, USA
- Walter Reed Army Institute of Research (WRAIR), One Health Branch, Silver Spring, MD, USA
| | | | | | - Laura Caicedo-Quiroga
- Walter Reed Biosystematics Unit (WRBU), Smithsonian Institution, Museum Support Center, Suitland, MD, USA
- Department of Entomology, National Museum of Natural History, Smithsonian Institution, Washington, DC, USA
- Walter Reed Army Institute of Research (WRAIR), One Health Branch, Silver Spring, MD, USA
| | - Donovan Leiva
- Belize Vector and Ecology Center (BVEC), Orange Walk Town, Orange Walk District, Belize
| | - Marie Pott
- Belize Vector and Ecology Center (BVEC), Orange Walk Town, Orange Walk District, Belize
| | - Alvaro Cruz
- Belize Vector and Ecology Center (BVEC), Orange Walk Town, Orange Walk District, Belize
| | - Chien-Chung Chao
- Viral and Rickettsial Diseases Department, Naval Medical Research Center (NMRC), Silver Spring, MD, USA
| | - Nicole L Achee
- Department of Biological Sciences, Eck Institute for Global Health, University of Notre Dame, Galvin Life Science Center, Notre Dame, IN, USA
| | - John P Grieco
- Department of Biological Sciences, Eck Institute for Global Health, University of Notre Dame, Galvin Life Science Center, Notre Dame, IN, USA
| | - Le Jiang
- Viral and Rickettsial Diseases Department, Naval Medical Research Center (NMRC), Silver Spring, MD, USA
- The Henry M. Jackson Foundation for the Advancement of Military Medicine, Inc., Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Ju Jiang
- Viral and Rickettsial Diseases Department, Naval Medical Research Center (NMRC), Silver Spring, MD, USA
- The Henry M. Jackson Foundation for the Advancement of Military Medicine, Inc., Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Christina M Farris
- Viral and Rickettsial Diseases Department, Naval Medical Research Center (NMRC), Silver Spring, MD, USA
| | - Yvonne-Marie Linton
- Walter Reed Biosystematics Unit (WRBU), Smithsonian Institution, Museum Support Center, Suitland, MD, USA
- Department of Entomology, National Museum of Natural History, Smithsonian Institution, Washington, DC, USA
- Walter Reed Army Institute of Research (WRAIR), One Health Branch, Silver Spring, MD, USA
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
de Oliveira CM, Yang S, Duarte MA, Figueiredo DM, do Rosario Batista LM, Marr H, McManus CM, André MR, Birkenheuer AJ, Paludo GR. Piroplasmid infection is not associated with clinicopathological and laboratory abnormalities in cats from Midwestern Brazil. Parasitol Res 2022; 121:2561-2570. [PMID: 35876912 PMCID: PMC10680102 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-022-07602-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2022] [Accepted: 07/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Feline piroplasmids include the genera Babesia spp., Cytauxzoon spp., and Theileria spp. In Brazil, there are few reports regarding these hemoprotozoans; however, clinicopathological and molecular data are scarce. This study aimed to characterize the clinical relevance of these parasites through hematological, biochemical, and molecular approaches. For this purpose, 166 cats from Brasilia, Federal District, Midwestern Brazil, were screened using a quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) for piroplasmids based on the LSU4 mitochondrial gene, which resulted in an overall prevalence of 36/166 (21.7%). Twelve of 166 samples (7.2%) were positive for C. felis, while 19/166 (11.4%) were positive for Babesia vogeli. No samples tested positive for Theileria spp. Babesia vogeli and Cytauxzoon spp. LSU4 sequences showed identities of 97-100% and 99.3%, respectively, to US isolates. The hematological and biochemical findings did not differ significantly between the cats that tested positive and negative for piroplasmids. Although the lack of abnormalities in clinical and laboratory parameters does not eliminate the possibility that these cats were sick and recovered, it may suggest that the Brazilian strain of Cytauxzoon spp. is not as pathogenic as that from the USA, despite the high molecular identity with North American isolates.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Camila Manoel de Oliveira
- Laboratório de Patologia Clínica Veterinária, Faculdade de Agronomia E Medicina Veterinária (FAV/UnB), Universidade de Brasília, CEP, Campus Universitário Darcy Ribeiro, ICC Centro - Asa Norte, Brasília, Distrito Federal, 70910-900, Brazil
| | - Sharon Yang
- Department of Clinical Sciences, North Carolina State College of Veterinary Medicine, Raleigh, NC, USA
| | - Matheus Almeida Duarte
- Laboratório de Patologia Clínica Veterinária, Faculdade de Agronomia E Medicina Veterinária (FAV/UnB), Universidade de Brasília, CEP, Campus Universitário Darcy Ribeiro, ICC Centro - Asa Norte, Brasília, Distrito Federal, 70910-900, Brazil
| | - Daniela Maciel Figueiredo
- Laboratório de Patologia Clínica Veterinária, Faculdade de Agronomia E Medicina Veterinária (FAV/UnB), Universidade de Brasília, CEP, Campus Universitário Darcy Ribeiro, ICC Centro - Asa Norte, Brasília, Distrito Federal, 70910-900, Brazil
| | - Liliane Maria do Rosario Batista
- Laboratório de Patologia Clínica Veterinária, Faculdade de Agronomia E Medicina Veterinária (FAV/UnB), Universidade de Brasília, CEP, Campus Universitário Darcy Ribeiro, ICC Centro - Asa Norte, Brasília, Distrito Federal, 70910-900, Brazil
| | - Henry Marr
- Department of Clinical Sciences, North Carolina State College of Veterinary Medicine, Raleigh, NC, USA
| | - Concepta Margaret McManus
- Departamento de Ciências Fisiológicas, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade de Brasília, Brasília, DF, Brazil
| | - Marcos Rogério André
- Laboratório de Imunoparasitologia, Departamento de Patologia Veterinária, Faculdade de Ciências Agrárias E Veterinárias Júlio de Mesquita Filho (UNESP), Jaboticabal, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Adam Joseph Birkenheuer
- Department of Clinical Sciences, North Carolina State College of Veterinary Medicine, Raleigh, NC, USA
| | - Giane Regina Paludo
- Laboratório de Patologia Clínica Veterinária, Faculdade de Agronomia E Medicina Veterinária (FAV/UnB), Universidade de Brasília, CEP, Campus Universitário Darcy Ribeiro, ICC Centro - Asa Norte, Brasília, Distrito Federal, 70910-900, Brazil.
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Sontigun N, Boonhoh W, Phetcharat Y, Wongtawan T. First study on molecular detection of hemopathogens in tabanid flies (Diptera: Tabanidae) and cattle in Southern Thailand. Vet World 2022; 15:2089-2094. [PMID: 36313830 PMCID: PMC9615497 DOI: 10.14202/vetworld.2022.2089-2094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2022] [Accepted: 08/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and Aim: Female tabanids play a key role in disease transmission as mechanical vectors for various hemopathogens, but only a limited number of studies have been conducted on them. This study aimed to investigate the occurrence of hemopathogens in tabanid flies compared to those found in nearby cattle hosts. Materials and Methods: Tabanids were collected using a Nzi trap for three consecutive days per month during the dry season (February–May 2021). Furthermore, blood samples were collected from 20 beef cattle (Bos taurus) raised in the same area where the flies were captured. Conventional polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was used to detect hemopathogenic DNA in flies and beef cattle. Results: In total, 279 female tabanids belonging to five species were collected: Tabanus megalops, Tabanus rubidus, Tabanus mesogaeus, Chrysops dispar, and Chrysops fuscomarginalis. Notably, T. megalops was the most abundant species, accounting for 89.2% of the flies collected (n = 249). PCR technique revealed that 76.6% of T. megalops carried at least one pathogen (Anaplasma, Ehrlichia, Babesia, or Theileria). In addition, all beef cattle had multiple hemopathogenic infections (Anaplasma marginale, Ehrlichia spp., Babesia bigemina, Babesia bovis, and Theileria spp.). Conclusion: Although T. megalops could carry many hemopathogens, it might not be an important vector due to the limited number of flies and parasitic load. Furthermore, T. megalops could be utilized to monitor the presence of hemopathogens in the study area, but not the disease occurrence in the individual host species. Knowing the presence of hemopathogens in flies could help manage the disease in this area.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Narin Sontigun
- Akkhraratchakumari Veterinary College, Walailak University, Nakhon Si Thammarat 80160, Thailand; One Health Research Center, Walailak University, Nakhon Si Thammarat 80160, Thailand; Centre of Excellence Research for Melioidosis and Other Microorganisms, Walailak University, Nakhon Si Thammarat 80160, Thailand
| | - Worakan Boonhoh
- Akkhraratchakumari Veterinary College, Walailak University, Nakhon Si Thammarat 80160, Thailand; One Health Research Center, Walailak University, Nakhon Si Thammarat 80160, Thailand
| | - Yotsapat Phetcharat
- Akkhraratchakumari Veterinary College, Walailak University, Nakhon Si Thammarat 80160, Thailand
| | - Tuempong Wongtawan
- Akkhraratchakumari Veterinary College, Walailak University, Nakhon Si Thammarat 80160, Thailand; One Health Research Center, Walailak University, Nakhon Si Thammarat 80160, Thailand; Centre of Excellence Research for Melioidosis and Other Microorganisms, Walailak University, Nakhon Si Thammarat 80160, Thailand
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Urbani L, Tirolo A, Balboni A, Troia R, Dondi F, Battilani M. Concomitant Infections With Canine Parvovirus Type 2 and Intracellular Tick-Borne Pathogens in Two Puppy Dogs. Front Vet Sci 2022; 9:964177. [PMID: 35928114 PMCID: PMC9343697 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2022.964177] [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: 06/08/2022] [Accepted: 06/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
In this report the concomitant infection with canine parvovirus type 2 (CPV-2), Hepatozoon canis and Ehrlichia canis in two puppy dogs from Southern Italy is described. Dogs were referred to a veterinary university hospital for the acute onset of lethargy and gastrointestinal signs. A complete clinical and clinicopathological evaluation was carried out and the multiple infection was confirmed by microscopic detection of inclusion bodies in peripheral blood smear, rapid immunoenzymatic tests, indirect fluorescent antibody tests, and molecular assays. Sequence analysis revealed that the CPV-2 identified belonged to the 2c variant and had amino acid residues in the predicted VP2 protein typical of “Asian-like” strains widespread in Asia and occasionally reported in Romania, Nigeria and Italy, particularly in the region of Sicily. Numerous monocytes were infected by both H. canis gamonts and E. canis morulae, suggesting that this co-infection is not accidental and that E. canis preferably infects those cells parasitized by H. canis. The clinical presentation of these animals was severe but supportive cares associated with early etiological therapy allowed a good prognosis. Movement of puppies from geographic areas where vector-borne pathogens are endemic must be carefully evaluated and core vaccinations and ectoparasite prevention treatments must be rigorously adopted.
Collapse
|
21
|
Kidd L, Hamilton H, Stine L, Qurollo B, Breitschwerdt EB. Vector-borne disease and its relationship to hematologic abnormalities and microalbuminuria in retired racing and show-bred greyhounds. Vet Med (Auckl) 2022; 36:1287-1294. [PMID: 35816034 PMCID: PMC9308419 DOI: 10.1111/jvim.16477] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2019] [Accepted: 06/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Background Reference intervals for platelets and white blood cell (WBCs) counts are lower in greyhounds than other breeds. Proteinuria is common. Vector‐borne diseases (VBD) cause thrombocytopenia, leukopenia, and proteinuria. Racing greyhounds are commonly exposed to vectors that carry multiple organisms capable of chronically infecting clinically healthy dogs. Hypothesis/Objectives Vector‐borne disease prevalence is higher in retired racing greyhounds than in show‐bred greyhounds. Occult infection contributes to breed‐related laboratory abnormalities. Animals Thirty National Greyhound Association (NGA) retired racing and 28 American Kennel Club (AKC) show‐bred greyhounds. Methods Peripheral blood was tested for Anaplasma, Babesia, Bartonella, Ehrlichia, hemotropic Mycoplasma, and Rickettsia species using PCR. Antibodies to Anaplasma, Babesia, Bartonella, Ehrlichia, and Rickettsia species and Borrelia burgdorferi were detected using immunofluorescence and ELISA assays. Complete blood counts, semiquantitative platelet estimates, and microalbuminuria concentration were determined. Results Seven of 30 NGA and 1/28 AKC greyhounds tested positive for ≥1 VBD (P = .05). More positive tests were documented in NGA (10/630) than in AKC dogs (1/588; P = .02). Exposure to Bartonella species (3/30), Babesia vogeli (2/30), Ehrlichia canis (1/30), and infection with Mycoplasma hemocanis (3/30) occurred in NGA dogs. Platelet counts or estimates were >170 000/μL. White blood cell counts <4000/μL (4/28 AKC; 5/30 NGA, P > .99; 1/8 VBD positive; 8/51 VBD negative, P = .99) and microalbuminuria (10/21 AKC; 5/26 NGA, P = .06; 1/8 VBD positive; 14/25 VBD negative, P = .41) were not associated with VBD. Conclusions and Clinical Importance The prevalence of thrombocytopenia and B. vogeli exposure was lower than previously documented. Larger studies investigating the health impact of multiple VBD organisms are warranted.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Linda Kidd
- Western University of Health Sciences College of Veterinary Medicine, Pomona, California, USA
| | | | - Lisa Stine
- Independent Contractor, Scio, Oregon, USA
| | - Barbara Qurollo
- Vector-Borne Disease Diagnostic Laboratory, North Carolina State University College of Veterinary Medicine, Raleigh, North Carolina, USA
| | - Edward B Breitschwerdt
- Vector-Borne Disease Diagnostic Laboratory, North Carolina State University College of Veterinary Medicine, Raleigh, North Carolina, USA
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Laatamna A, Strube C, Bakkes DK, Schaper S, Aziza FZ, Ben Chelef H, Amrane NEH, Bedraoui R, Dobler G, Chitimia-Dobler L. Molecular detection of tick-borne pathogens in Rhipicephalus sanguineus sensu stricto collected from dogs in the steppe and high plateau regions of Algeria. Acta Trop 2022; 234:106582. [PMID: 35787416 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2022.106582] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2022] [Revised: 06/29/2022] [Accepted: 06/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Epidemiology and distributions of canine tick-borne diseases as well as their veterinary and zoonotic significance are poorly understood in Algeria. The present study describes a molecular investigation of important tick-borne pathogens in Rhipicephalus sanguineus sensu stricto collected from domestic dogs in steppe and high plateau areas of central and eastern Algeria. In total, 1,043 ticks were collected from 147 domestic dogs, including 756 ticks from 124 dogs in the steppe region of Djelfa, and 287 ticks from 23 dogs in the high plateau area of Bordj Bou Arreridj. Ticks were divided into 384 pools (309 pools from Djelfa and 75 pools from Bordj Bou Arreridj) and tested for genomic materials of Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever virus (CCHFV) as well as DNA for Anaplasma phagocytophilum, Anaplasma platys, Ehrlichia canis, Rickettsia spp., Babesia spp., and Hepatozoon spp. using PCR, sequencing and phylogenetic analysis. Hepatozoon spp. was most prevalent, with 160 positive pools (41.70%), and 12 of these were sequenced and identified as Hepatozoon canis. Babesia spp. was detected in 50 samples (13.0%), of which 11 were sequenced and identified as Babesia vogeli. A. platys and E. canis were detected in 92 (24.0%) and 15 (3.9%) of tested samples, respectively. Rickettsia spp. were detected in 24 (6.3%) samples, including 11 samples identified as R. massiliae, 6 samples identified as R. conorii conorii, and 7 samples could not be identified to species level. All 384 pools tested negative for CCHFV and A. phagocytophilum. In addition to detection of R. conorii conorii, R. massiliae, and E. canis, the present study provides the first molecular data for occurrence of A. platys, B. vogeli, and H. canis in Rh. sanguineus s.s. infesting dogs in Algeria. Further large scale studies should be conducted to better understand the epidemiology, distributions and importance of canine tick-borne pathogens in Algeria.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- AbdElkarim Laatamna
- Faculty of Nature and Life Sciences, University of Djelfa, Moudjbara Road, BP 3117, Djelfa, Algeria.
| | - Christina Strube
- Institute for Parasitology, Centre for Infection Medicine, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Buenteweg 17, 30559 Hanover, Germany
| | - Deon K Bakkes
- Gertrud Theiler Tick Museum, Agricultural Research Council - Onderstepoort Veterinary Research, Pretoria, South Africa
| | | | - Fatima Zohra Aziza
- Faculty of Nature and Life Sciences, University of Djelfa, Moudjbara Road, BP 3117, Djelfa, Algeria
| | - Hanan Ben Chelef
- Faculty of Nature and Life Sciences, University of Djelfa, Moudjbara Road, BP 3117, Djelfa, Algeria
| | - Nour El Houda Amrane
- Faculty of Nature and Life Sciences, University of Djelfa, Moudjbara Road, BP 3117, Djelfa, Algeria
| | - Ramlia Bedraoui
- Faculty of Nature and Life Sciences, University of Djelfa, Moudjbara Road, BP 3117, Djelfa, Algeria
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
23
|
Izenour K, Zohdy S, Kalalah A, Starkey L, Blagburn B, Sundermann C, Salib F. Detection of zoonotic vector-borne pathogens in domestic dogs in Giza, Egypt. Vet Parasitol Reg Stud Reports 2022; 32:100744. [PMID: 35725107 DOI: 10.1016/j.vprsr.2022.100744] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2021] [Revised: 04/15/2022] [Accepted: 05/30/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
The public health implications of zoonotic vector-borne pathogens are numerous because domestic animals, such as dogs, live in close proximity to humans. Blood was collected from 116 domestic dogs in Cairo, Egypt from three different settings at the human-animal interface. The three settings the dogs came from were: privately owned animals seeking care at the Cairo University Faculty of Veterinary Medicine Clinic, non-laboratory reared research dogs maintained at the Cairo University Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, and an urban private animal rescue in Shabramont, Giza, Egypt. Enrolled animals were visually inspected for presence of flea or tick ectoparasites, Rhipicephalus sanguineus sensu lato ticks were recovered from 56 enrolled animals and a flea identified as Ctenocephalides felis was recovered from one animal. To test for past and/or current infection with vector-borne pathogens, conventional PCR and IDEXX SNAP® 4Dx® Plus were performed on whole blood. Pathogen targets included: Anaplasma spp., Ehrlichia spp., Babesia spp., Borrelia spp., Bartonella spp., Dirofilaria spp., and Rickettsia spp. Among dogs sampled across all locations, one dog was positive for Babesia sp. infection and one dog was positive for Anaplasma sp. infection as detected by PCR and confirmed by Sanger sequencing. Three additional dogs were positive for infection but had incomplete sequences obtained: two for Ehrlichia sp. and one for Borrelia sp. The SNAP® test results for all sampled dogs included: eight dogs positive for Anaplasma spp., 14 dogs positive for Ehrlichia spp., and five additional dogs positive for both Anaplasma spp. and Ehrlichia spp. SNAP® test results by sampling location showed that 66% of the dogs at the animal rescue were positive for Anaplasma spp. and/or Ehrlichia spp., 17% of the privately owned dogs at the Faculty of Veterinary medicine were positive for Anaplasma spp. and/or Ehrlichia spp., and none of the research dogs were positive for any of the targets on the SNAP® test. This high proportion of seropositivity in the animals sampled indicates a vector population which is not well controlled and a need for continued owner education and promotion of consistent use of preventive medications and the risk for zoonotic transmission.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Katie Izenour
- Department of Pathobiology, Auburn University College of Veterinary Medicine, 166 Greene Hall Auburn, AL 36849, United States of America.
| | - Sarah Zohdy
- Department of Pathobiology, Auburn University College of Veterinary Medicine, 166 Greene Hall Auburn, AL 36849, United States of America; College of Forestry, Wildlife and Evironment, Auburn University, 600 Duncan Drive, AL 36849, United States of America
| | - Anwar Kalalah
- Department of Pathobiology, Auburn University College of Veterinary Medicine, 166 Greene Hall Auburn, AL 36849, United States of America
| | - Lindsay Starkey
- Department of Pathobiology, Auburn University College of Veterinary Medicine, 166 Greene Hall Auburn, AL 36849, United States of America
| | - Byron Blagburn
- Department of Pathobiology, Auburn University College of Veterinary Medicine, 166 Greene Hall Auburn, AL 36849, United States of America
| | - Christine Sundermann
- Department of Biological Sciences, Auburn University College of Science and Mathematics, 101 Rouse Life Sciences Building Auburn, AL 36849, United States of America
| | - Fayez Salib
- Cairo University, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Giza Governorate, Cairo, Egypt
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Cerreta AJ, Yang TS, Ramsay EC, Birkenheuer AJ, Rahoi D, Qurollo B, Wilson J, Cushing AC. DETECTION OF VECTOR-BORNE INFECTIONS IN LIONS AND TIGERS AT TWO ZOOS IN TENNESSEE AND OKLAHOMA, USA. J Zoo Wildl Med 2022; 53:50-59. [PMID: 35339149 PMCID: PMC10685398 DOI: 10.1638/2020-0199] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Protozoal and bacterial vector-borne infections are frequently diagnosed in domestic felids. However, with the exception of Mycoplasma haemofelis and Cytauxzoon felis, their occurrence in managed nondomestic felids housed in the United States is largely unknown. Following a case in February 2020 of fulminant cytauxzoonosis in an African lion (Panthera leo), EDTA-whole blood samples were collected opportunistically from February 2020 through June 2020 from 34 adult tigers (Panthera tigris) and eight adult African lions from the same sanctuary in eastern Tennessee as well as 14 adult tigers from a zoo in southern Oklahoma. Samples were analyzed for Cytauxzoon felis, Bartonella spp., hemotropic Mycoplasma, Rickettsia spp., Anaplasma spp., Ehrlichia spp., Babesia spp., and Hepatozoon spp. DNA by PCR amplification. All animals were asymptomatic at the time of collection. None of the Oklahoma animals were positive for vector-borne organisms, but these pathogens were detected in tigers at the Tennessee facility, including Cytauxzoon felis (11.8%), "Candidatus Mycoplasma haemominutum" (5.9%), and Ehrlichia ewingii (2.9%). During the study period, two animals developed clinical signs of cytauxzoonosis and were assessed for vector-borne infections as part of their diagnostic evaluation. This study documents the presence of tick-borne diseases in managed nondomestic felids in the southeastern United States and underscores that ectoparasite control measures should be practiced to minimize exposure of carnivores in managed care.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anthony J Cerreta
- Department of Small Animal Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN 37996, USA
| | - Tzushan S Yang
- Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27607, USA
| | - Edward C Ramsay
- Department of Small Animal Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN 37996, USA
| | - Adam J Birkenheuer
- Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27607, USA
| | - Dane Rahoi
- Biomedical and Diagnostic Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN 37996, USA
| | - Barbara Qurollo
- Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27607, USA
| | - James Wilson
- Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27607, USA
| | - Andrew C Cushing
- Department of Small Animal Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN 37996, USA,
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Duncan KT, Grant A, Johnson B, Sundstrom KD, Saleh MN, Little SE. Identification of Rickettsia spp. and Babesia conradae in Dermacentor spp. Collected from Dogs and Cats Across the United States. Vector Borne Zoonotic Dis 2021; 21:911-920. [PMID: 34958266 PMCID: PMC8742288 DOI: 10.1089/vbz.2021.0047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
In the United States, Dermacentor variabilis and Dermacentor andersoni are considered key vectors for Rickettsia rickettsii, the causative agent of Rocky Mountain spotted fever. Through regional surveillance, a wide diversity of Rickettsia spp. have been documented in D. variabilis, and Dermacentor spp. has been suggested as potential vectors for various other pathogens, including Babesia spp. and Ehrlichia canis. To better define the prevalence and diversity of pathogens in Dermacentor spp. across the United States, 848 ticks collected from dogs and cats in 44/50 states in 2018–2019 were tested by PCR for Rickettsia spp.-specific 17 kDa and ompA gene fragments; a subset of Dermacentor spp. was also tested with PCR, targeting fragments of the 18S and large subunit region rRNA genes of Babesia spp. and 16S rRNA genes of E. canis. Rickettsia spp. was identified in 12.5% (106/848) of ticks. Species detected include Rickettsia montanensis (n = 64 ticks), Rickettsia bellii (n = 15 ticks), Rickettsia rhipicephali (n = 13 ticks), Rickettsia peacockii (n = 8 ticks), Rickettsia amblyommatis (n = 3 ticks), Rickettsia cooleyi (n = 1 tick), and unclassified Rickettsia spp. (n = 2 ticks). Ticks with R. montanensis and R. bellii were submitted from every U.S. region; R. rhipicephali was predominantly detected in ticks from the southern half of the United States, and all R. peacockii-positive ticks were D. andersoni that originated from the Rocky Mountain states. Ehrlichia canis was not detected in any Dermacentor spp., and Babesia conradae was detected in two Dermacentor albipictus. Because most ticks had fed on dogs or cats before submission, these findings do not implicate a given Dermacentor sp. as a primary vector of these agents, but in regard to Rickettsia spp., the data do support other published work showing D. variabilis harbors a diversity of Rickettsia species with unknown implications for animal and human health.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kathryn T Duncan
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, Oklahoma, USA
| | - Amber Grant
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, Oklahoma, USA
| | - Britny Johnson
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, Oklahoma, USA.,Rickettsial Zoonoses Branch, Division of Vector-Borne Disease, National Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Infectious Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Kellee D Sundstrom
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, Oklahoma, USA
| | - Meriam N Saleh
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, Oklahoma, USA.,Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas, USA
| | - Susan E Little
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, Oklahoma, USA
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Maggi R, Breitschwerdt EB, Qurollo B, Miller JC. Development of a Multiplex Droplet Digital PCR Assay for the Detection of Babesia, Bartonella, and Borrelia Species. Pathogens 2021; 10:pathogens10111462. [PMID: 34832618 PMCID: PMC8620149 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens10111462] [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: 10/25/2021] [Revised: 11/08/2021] [Accepted: 11/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
We describe the development, optimization, and validation of a multiplex droplet digital PCR (ddPCR) assay for the simultaneous detection of Babesia, Bartonella, and Borrelia spp. DNA from several sample matrices, including clinical blood samples from animals and humans, vectors, in-vitro infected human and animal cell lines, and tissues obtained from animal models (infected with Bartonella and/or B. burgdorferi). The multiplex ddPCR assay was able to detect 31 Bartonella, 13 Borrelia, and 24 Babesia species, including Theileria equi, T. cervi, and Cytauxzoon felis. No amplification of Treponema or Leptospira spp. was observed. Sensitivity of 0.2-5 genome equivalent DNA copies per microliter was achieved for different members of the Bartonella and Borrelia genus, depending on the species or matrix type (water or spiked blood DNA) tested. The ddPCR assay facilitated the simultaneous detection of co-infections with two and three vector-borne pathogens comprising four different genera (Babesia, Bartonella, Borrelia, and Theileria) from clinical and other sample sources.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ricardo Maggi
- Department of Clinical Sciences, The Comparative Medicine Institute, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, 1060 William Moore Drive, Raleigh, NC 27607, USA; (E.B.B.); (B.Q.)
- Galaxy Diagnostics, Inc., 6 Davis Drive, Suite 201, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, USA;
- Correspondence:
| | - Edward B. Breitschwerdt
- Department of Clinical Sciences, The Comparative Medicine Institute, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, 1060 William Moore Drive, Raleigh, NC 27607, USA; (E.B.B.); (B.Q.)
- Galaxy Diagnostics, Inc., 6 Davis Drive, Suite 201, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, USA;
| | - Barbara Qurollo
- Department of Clinical Sciences, The Comparative Medicine Institute, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, 1060 William Moore Drive, Raleigh, NC 27607, USA; (E.B.B.); (B.Q.)
| | - Jennifer C. Miller
- Galaxy Diagnostics, Inc., 6 Davis Drive, Suite 201, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, USA;
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Molecular Detection of Tick-Borne Pathogens in American Bison ( Bison bison) at El Uno Ecological Reserve, Janos, Chihuahua, Mexico. Pathogens 2021; 10:pathogens10111428. [PMID: 34832584 PMCID: PMC8621901 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens10111428] [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: 09/24/2021] [Revised: 10/26/2021] [Accepted: 11/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
American bison (Bison bison) is listed as near-threatened and in danger of extinction in Mexico. Recent studies have demonstrated the presence of several emerging pathogens at the Janos Biosphere Reserve (JBR), inhabited by one wild herd of American bison. Blood samples were collected from 26 American bison in the JBR. We tested for the presence of Anaplasma marginale, Babesia bigemina, B. bovis, Borrelia burgdorferi sensu lato, and Rickettsia rickettsii DNA using nested and semi-nested PCR protocols performing duplicates in two different laboratories. Results showed three animals (11.5%) positive for B. burgdorferi s. l., three more (11.5%) for Rickettsia rickettsii, and four (19.2%) for B. bovis. Two individuals were co-infected with B. burgdorferi s. l. and B. bovis. We found no animals positive for A. marginale and B. bigemina. This is the first report in America of R. rickettsii in American bison. American bison has been described as an important reservoir for pathogens of zoonotic and veterinary importance; thus, the presence of tick-borne pathogen DNA in the JBR American bison indicates the importance of continuous wildlife health surveys.
Collapse
|
28
|
Tian Z, Gao S, Ren Q, Du J, Guan G, Liu G, Luo J, Yin H. Mitochondrial genome of Theileria uilenbergi endemic in sheep and goats in China. Parasitol Res 2021; 120:3429-3436. [PMID: 34467423 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-021-07304-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2021] [Accepted: 08/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Mitochondrial genomes provide new insights that help elucidating biological features, genetic evolution, and classification of protozoans. Theileria uilenbergi (T. uilenbergi), transmitted by Haemaphysalis qinghaiensis and H. longicornis, is considered as highly pathogenic to sheep and goats in China. This study reports and outlines features of its mitochondrial genome. The T. uilenbergi mitochondrial genome is a linear monomeric molecule of 6.0 kb length, which encodes three protein-coding genes named cytochrome c oxidase I (cox1), cytochrome b (cob), and cytochrome c oxidase III (cox3), as well as six large subunit (LSU) rRNA gene fragments, and ends in terminal inverted repeats (TIRs). The array structure and organization of the mitochondrial genome of T. uilenbergi is identical to that of T. parva. Phylogenetic analysis based on the amino acid sequences of cox1, cob, and cox3 genes suggests that T. uilenbergi is distantly related to the group of transforming Theileria species such as T. parva. This study contributes to a comprehensive understanding of the phylogeny and evolution of the mitochondrial genome of piroplasms and provides useful information of diagnostic marker for T. uilenbergi.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhancheng Tian
- State Key Laboratory of Veterinary Etiological Biology, Key Laboratory of Veterinary Parasitology of Gansu Province, Lanzhou Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Lanzhou, 730046, People's Republic of China.
| | - Shandian Gao
- State Key Laboratory of Veterinary Etiological Biology, Key Laboratory of Veterinary Parasitology of Gansu Province, Lanzhou Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Lanzhou, 730046, People's Republic of China
| | - Qiaoyun Ren
- State Key Laboratory of Veterinary Etiological Biology, Key Laboratory of Veterinary Parasitology of Gansu Province, Lanzhou Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Lanzhou, 730046, People's Republic of China
| | - Junzheng Du
- State Key Laboratory of Veterinary Etiological Biology, Key Laboratory of Veterinary Parasitology of Gansu Province, Lanzhou Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Lanzhou, 730046, People's Republic of China
| | - Guiquan Guan
- State Key Laboratory of Veterinary Etiological Biology, Key Laboratory of Veterinary Parasitology of Gansu Province, Lanzhou Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Lanzhou, 730046, People's Republic of China
| | - Guangyuan Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Veterinary Etiological Biology, Key Laboratory of Veterinary Parasitology of Gansu Province, Lanzhou Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Lanzhou, 730046, People's Republic of China
| | - Jianxun Luo
- State Key Laboratory of Veterinary Etiological Biology, Key Laboratory of Veterinary Parasitology of Gansu Province, Lanzhou Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Lanzhou, 730046, People's Republic of China
| | - Hong Yin
- State Key Laboratory of Veterinary Etiological Biology, Key Laboratory of Veterinary Parasitology of Gansu Province, Lanzhou Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Lanzhou, 730046, People's Republic of China
- Jiangsu Co-Innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Diseases and Zoonosis, Yangzhou, 225009, People's Republic of China
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Molecular detection of piroplasmids in synanthropic rodents, marsupials, and associated ticks from Brazil, with phylogenetic inference of a putative novel Babesia sp. from white-eared opossum (Didelphis albiventris). Parasitol Res 2021; 120:3537-3546. [PMID: 34448058 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-021-07284-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2021] [Accepted: 08/09/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
The order Piroplasmida encompasses tick-borne pathogens of veterinary and medical importance positioned in two main families: Babesiidae and Theileriidae. Even though previous studies carried out in Brazil recorded the occurrence of piroplasmid species circulating in small mammals, 18S RNA gene sequences were only partially sequenced, preventing the assessment of their phylogenetic positioning. The current study aimed to detect and characterize, using morphological, molecular, and bioinformatic approaches, piroplasmids from wild mammals and associated ticks sampled in Central-Western Brazil. Out of 67 Didelphis albiventris sampled, 22 (16.4%) were positive for piroplasmids by PCR. In contrast, none of the 48 small rodents and 14 capybaras (Hydrochoerus hydrochaeris) was PCR-positive. Four Amblyomma dubitatum ticks-one from Rattus rattus, one from H. hydrochaeris, and two from D. albiventris-out of 114 Amblyomma spp. DNA samples were positive for piroplasmids by PCR. The phylogenetic inference performed using the near-complete 18S rRNA gene positioned the putative novel piroplasmid species detected in D. albiventris and associated A. dubitatum ticks near to Babesia sensu lato clade (Western group-cluster III) and distant from the Australian marsupial-associated piroplasms. Phylogenetic inferences based on two additional molecular markers, namely hsp-70 and cox-1, supported the near-complete 18S rRNA gene phylogenetic inference. Finally, the partial 18S rRNA gene sequences detected in ticks from rodents (R. rattus and H. hydrochaeris) showed 97.2-99.4% identity with the Piroplasmida previously detected in a capybara from Brazil, raising evidence that a still uncharacterized piroplasmid species has been identified in the capybara, the largest rodent species from South America.
Collapse
|
30
|
Vasconcelos EJR, Roy C, Geiger JA, Oney KM, Koo M, Ren S, Oakley BB, Diniz PPVP. Data analysis workflow for the detection of canine vector-borne pathogens using 16 S rRNA Next-Generation Sequencing. BMC Vet Res 2021; 17:262. [PMID: 34332568 PMCID: PMC8325813 DOI: 10.1186/s12917-021-02969-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2020] [Accepted: 07/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Vector-borne diseases (VBDs) impact both human and veterinary medicine and pose special public health challenges. The main bacterial vector-borne pathogens (VBPs) of importance in veterinary medicine include Anaplasma spp., Bartonella spp., Ehrlichia spp., and Spotted Fever Group Rickettsia. Taxon-targeted PCR assays are the current gold standard for VBP diagnostics but limitations on the detection of genetically diverse organisms support a novel approach for broader detection of VBPs. We present a methodology for genetic characterization of VBPs using Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) and computational approaches. A major advantage of NGS is the ability to detect multiple organisms present in the same clinical sample in an unsupervised (i.e. non-targeted) and semi-quantitative way. The Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) presented here combines industry-standard microbiome analysis tools with our ad-hoc bioinformatic scripts to form a complete analysis pipeline accessible to veterinary scientists and freely available for download and use at https://github.com/eltonjrv/microbiome.westernu/tree/SOP . RESULTS We tested and validated our SOP by mimicking single, double, and triple infections in genomic canine DNA using serial dilutions of plasmids containing the entire 16 S rRNA gene sequence of (A) phagocytophilum, (B) v. berkhoffii, and E. canis. NGS with broad-range 16 S rRNA primers followed by our bioinformatics SOP was capable of detecting these pathogens in biological replicates of different dilutions. These results illustrate the ability of NGS to detect and genetically characterize multi-infections with different amounts of pathogens in a single sample. CONCLUSIONS Bloodborne microbiomics & metagenomics approaches may help expand the molecular diagnostic toolbox in veterinary and human medicine. In this paper, we present both in vitro and in silico detailed protocols that can be combined into a single workflow that may provide a significant improvement in VBP diagnostics and also facilitate future applications of microbiome research in veterinary medicine.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elton J. R. Vasconcelos
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Western University of Health Sciences, 309 East 2nd Street, CA 91766 − 1854 Pomona, USA
- Leeds Omics, University of Leeds, LS2 9JT Leeds, United Kingdom
| | - Chayan Roy
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Western University of Health Sciences, 309 East 2nd Street, CA 91766 − 1854 Pomona, USA
| | - Joseph A. Geiger
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Western University of Health Sciences, 309 East 2nd Street, CA 91766 − 1854 Pomona, USA
| | - Kristina M. Oney
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Western University of Health Sciences, 309 East 2nd Street, CA 91766 − 1854 Pomona, USA
| | - Melody Koo
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Western University of Health Sciences, 309 East 2nd Street, CA 91766 − 1854 Pomona, USA
| | - Songyang Ren
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Western University of Health Sciences, 309 East 2nd Street, CA 91766 − 1854 Pomona, USA
| | - Brian B. Oakley
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Western University of Health Sciences, 309 East 2nd Street, CA 91766 − 1854 Pomona, USA
| | - Pedro Paulo V. P. Diniz
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Western University of Health Sciences, 309 East 2nd Street, CA 91766 − 1854 Pomona, USA
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Chan PK, Hawley JR, Lappin MR. Evaluation of the role of Babesia species and Cytauxzoon felis in feline anemia cases in Colorado, USA. JFMS Open Rep 2021; 7:20551169211024967. [PMID: 34221442 PMCID: PMC8221686 DOI: 10.1177/20551169211024967] [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: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives The aim of this study was to evaluate the blood of cats in Colorado, USA, with suspected infectious causes of anemia for the presence of Babesia species and Cytauxzoon felis DNA. Results of PCR testing for other common vector-borne diseases potentially associated with anemia are also reported. Methods Samples from 101 cats were tested using a PCR assay that coamplified the DNA of C felis and Babesia species mitochondrial DNA. PCR testing for DNA of hemoplasmas, Bartonella species, Ehrlichia species, Anaplasma species, Neorickettsia risticii and Wolbachia genera was also performed if not carried out previously. Results Twenty-two cats (21.8%) were positive for DNA of an infectious agent. DNA from hemoplasma species were amplified from 14 cats (13.9%). Bartonella species DNA was amplified from four cats (4%) and Ehrlichia canis, Anaplasma platys, Anaplasma phagocytophilum and Wolbachia genera DNA were amplified from one cat each. Babesia species and C felis mitochondrial DNA were not amplified from any sample. Conclusions and relevance Based on the results of this study, it does not appear that Babesia species or C felis are clinically relevant in anemic cats in Colorado, USA. For C felis, this suggests that the vector Amblyomma americanum is still uncommon in this geographic area.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Pierce K Chan
- Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collin, CO, USA
| | - Jennifer R Hawley
- Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collin, CO, USA
| | - Michael R Lappin
- Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collin, CO, USA
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Kivrane A, Namina A, Seleznova M, Akopjana S, Capligina V, Ranka R. Development of a real-time PCR method for rapid diagnosis of canine babesiosis and anaplasmosis. Parasit Vectors 2021; 14:266. [PMID: 34016173 PMCID: PMC8139040 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-021-04756-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2020] [Accepted: 04/29/2021] [Indexed: 04/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Canine babesiosis and anaplasmosis, caused by Babesia canis and Anaplasma phagocytophilum, respectively, are significant tick-borne diseases in Baltic countries. Both diseases can be diagnosed on the basis of clinicopathological findings, by direct pathogen detection in blood smears or by indirect pathogen detection; however, because of high selectivity and specificity, molecular methods may be advantageous. The goal of this study was to develop a duplex real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) method for the detection of B. canis and A. phagocytophilum in canine clinical samples. Methods Sequence-based polymorphism analysis of genes encoding B. canis-specific merozoite surface protein Bc28.1 (Bc28.1) and A. phagocytophilum malate dehydrogenase (mdh) was performed on pathogen isolates present in Latvian domestic dogs. The obtained results were used to design a species-specific duplex RT-PCR assay. Results The presence of three B. canis Bc28.1 gene sequence types was revealed in canine samples with a nonuniform geographical distribution, and two types of A. phagocytophilum mdh genes were detected. The novel duplex RT-PCR assay provided correct classification of samples positive and negative for B. canis and A. phagocytophilum. The analytical sensitivity of this assay was ten gene copies/ reaction for both pathogens. Conclusions A novel duplex RT-PCR molecular method was developed for the detection of B. canis and A. phagocytophilum in canine clinical samples. Sequence variability of Bc28.1 and mdh genes indicated the genetic variability of B. canis and A. phagocytophilum isolates occurring in Latvian domestic dogs. Graphic Abstract ![]()
Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13071-021-04756-9.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Agnija Kivrane
- Latvian Biomedical Research and Study Centre, Ratsupites Street 1, Riga, Latvia
| | - Agne Namina
- Latvian Biomedical Research and Study Centre, Ratsupites Street 1, Riga, Latvia
| | - Maija Seleznova
- Latvian Biomedical Research and Study Centre, Ratsupites Street 1, Riga, Latvia
| | - Sarmite Akopjana
- Latvian Biomedical Research and Study Centre, Ratsupites Street 1, Riga, Latvia
| | - Valentina Capligina
- Latvian Biomedical Research and Study Centre, Ratsupites Street 1, Riga, Latvia
| | - Renate Ranka
- Latvian Biomedical Research and Study Centre, Ratsupites Street 1, Riga, Latvia.
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Novel High-Throughput Multiplex qPCRs for the Detection of Canine Vector-Borne Pathogens in the Asia-Pacific. Microorganisms 2021; 9:microorganisms9051092. [PMID: 34069665 PMCID: PMC8161336 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms9051092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2021] [Revised: 05/18/2021] [Accepted: 05/18/2021] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
The Asia-Pacific hosts a large diversity of canine vector-borne pathogens (VBPs) with some of the most common and most pathogenic, generating significant mortality as well as a spectrum of health impacts on local dog populations. The VBPs Anaplasma platys, Babesia gibsoni, Babesia vogeli, Ehrlichia canis, Hepatozoon canis and haemotropic Mycoplasma spp. are all endemic throughout the region, with many exhibiting shifting geographical distributions that warrant urgent attention. Moreover, many of these species cause similar clinical signs when parasitising canine hosts, whilst knowledge of the exact pathogen is critical to ensure treatment is effective. This is complicated by frequent coinfection that can exacerbate pathology. Here, we describe the development, optimisation and validation of two novel quadruplex Taq-Man based real-time PCRs (qPCRs) for the specific and sensitive detection of the aforementioned VBPs. To ensure accurate evaluation of diagnostic performance, results of our qPCRs were evaluated on field samples from Thai dogs and compared with both conventional PCR (cPCR) results and next-generation sequencing (NGS) metabarcoding. Our qPCRs were found to be more sensitive at detecting canine VBP than cPCR and generated results similar to those achieved by NGS. These qPCRs will provide a valuable high-throughput diagnostic tool available to epidemiologists, researchers and clinicians for the diagnosis of key canine VBPs in the Asia-Pacific and further afield.
Collapse
|
34
|
MOLECULAR PREVALENCE OF SELECTED VECTOR-BORNE ORGANISMS IN CAPTIVE RED WOLVES ( CANIS RUFUS). J Zoo Wildl Med 2021; 51:663-667. [PMID: 33480542 DOI: 10.1638/2019-0162] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/01/2020] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The red wolf (Canis rufus) is a critically endangered North American canid, with surviving conspecifics divided between a captive breeding population and a reintroduced free-ranging population. The goal of this study was to assess the prevalence of selected vector-borne pathogens in captive red wolves. Whole blood samples were collected from 35 captive red wolves. Quantitative polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assays were performed on extracted DNA to identify infection by Trypanosoma cruzi and vector-borne organisms within the following genera: Anaplasma, Babesia, Bartonella, Ehrlichia, Mycoplasma, Neoehrlichia, Neorickettsia, and Rickettsia. All red wolves sampled were PCR-negative for all tested organisms. These pathogens are unlikely to constitute threats to red wolf conservation and breeding efforts under current captive management conditions. The results of this study establish a baseline that may facilitate ongoing disease monitoring in this species.
Collapse
|
35
|
Evaluation of a commercial microbial enrichment kit used prior DNA extraction to improve the molecular detection of vector-borne pathogens from naturally infected dogs. J Microbiol Methods 2021; 188:106163. [PMID: 33581169 DOI: 10.1016/j.mimet.2021.106163] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2020] [Revised: 02/04/2021] [Accepted: 02/05/2021] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
Accurate detection of vector-borne pathogens (VBPs) is extremely important as the number of reported cases in humans and animals continues to rise in the US and abroad. Validated PCR assays are currently the cornerstone of molecular diagnostics and can achieve excellent analytical sensitivity and specificity. However, the detection of pathogens at low parasitemia still presents a challenge for VBP diagnosis, especially given the very low volume of specimens tested by molecular methods. The objective of this study is to determine if a commercially available microbial enrichment kit, used prior DNA extraction, is capable of expanding the overall microbial community and increasing detectable levels of VBPs in canine blood samples through host DNA depletion. This study used EDTA-whole blood samples from dogs naturally infected with varying parasitemia levels of either Anaplasma phagocytophilum, Babesia gibsoni, or Ehrlichia ewingii. For two VBPs, EDTA-blood samples were diluted to determine the effect of microbial concentration at low parasitemia. Paired EDTA-blood samples from each dog were subjected to traditional, automated DNA extraction with or without the microbial concentrating kit (MolYsis®) prior to DNA extraction. Relative amounts of pathogen DNA in paired samples were determined by real-time PCR and Next-Generation Sequencing targeting conserved regions of 16S rRNA (for bacteria) and 18S rRNA (for protozoa). Results from the three molecular methods suggest that the microbial concentrating kit did not improve the detection of VBPs, although significantly reduced the presence of host DNA. Alternative methods for VBP enrichment in clinical samples prior to molecular testing should continue to be investigated, as it may significantly improve clinical sensitivity and reduce the number of false-negative results.
Collapse
|
36
|
Yu J, Young RG, Deeth LE, Hanner RH. Molecular Detection Mapping and Analysis Platform for R (MDMAPR) facilitating the standardization, analysis, visualization, and sharing of qPCR data and metadata. PeerJ 2020; 8:e9974. [PMID: 33150057 PMCID: PMC7587055 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.9974] [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: 05/26/2020] [Accepted: 08/26/2020] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) has been used as a standard molecular detection tool in many scientific fields. Unfortunately, there is no standard method for managing published qPCR data, and those currently used generally focus on only managing raw fluorescence data. However, associated with qPCR experiments are extensive sample and assay metadata, often under-examined and under-reported. Here, we present the Molecular Detection Mapping and Analysis Platform for R (MDMAPR), an open-source and fully scalable informatics tool for researchers to merge raw qPCR fluorescence data with associated metadata into a standard format, while geospatially visualizing the distribution of the data and relative intensity of the qPCR results. The advance of this approach is in the ability to use MDMAPR to store varied qPCR data. This includes pathogen and environmental qPCR species detection studies ideally suited to geographical visualization. However, it also goes beyond these and can be utilized with other qPCR data including gene expression studies, quantification studies used in identifying health dangers associated with food and water bacteria, and the identification of unknown samples. In addition, MDMAPR’s novel centralized management and geospatial visualization of qPCR data can further enable cross-discipline large-scale qPCR data standardization and accessibility to support research spanning multiple fields of science and qPCR applications.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jiaojia Yu
- Integrative Biology, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario, Canada
| | - Robert G Young
- Integrative Biology, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario, Canada
| | - Lorna E Deeth
- Department of Mathematics and Statistics, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario, Canada
| | - Robert H Hanner
- Integrative Biology, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Fedele K, Poh KC, Brown JE, Jones A, Durden LA, Tiffin HS, Pagac A, Li AY, Machtinger ET. Host distribution and pathogen infection of fleas (Siphonaptera) recovered from small mammals in Pennsylvania. JOURNAL OF VECTOR ECOLOGY : JOURNAL OF THE SOCIETY FOR VECTOR ECOLOGY 2020; 45:32-44. [PMID: 32492279 DOI: 10.1111/jvec.12371] [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: 09/12/2019] [Accepted: 12/23/2019] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
The number of recognized flea-borne pathogens has increased over the past decade. However, the true number of infections related to all flea-borne pathogens remains unknown. To better understand the enzootic cycle of flea-borne pathogens, fleas were sampled from small mammals trapped in central Pennsylvania. A total of 541 small mammals were trapped, with white-footed mice (Peromyscus leucopus) and southern red-backed voles (Myodes gapperi) accounting for over 94% of the captures. Only P. leucopus were positive for examined blood-borne pathogens, with 47 (18.1%) and ten (4.8%) positive for Anaplasma phagocytophilum and Babesia microti, respectively. In addition, 61 fleas were collected from small mammals and tested for pathogens. Orchopeas leucopus was the most common flea and Bartonella vinsonii subspecies arupensis, B. microti, and a Rickettsia felis-like bacterium were detected in various flea samples. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of B. microti DNA detected from a flea and the first report of a R. felis-like bacterium from rodent fleas in eastern North America. This study provides evidence of emerging pathogens found in fleas, but further investigation is required to resolve the ecology of flea-borne disease transmission cycles.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kaila Fedele
- Department of Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, 16802, U.S.A
| | - Karen C Poh
- Department of Entomology, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, 16802, U.S.A
| | - Jessica E Brown
- Department of Ecosystem Science and Management, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, 16802, U.S.A
| | - Amanda Jones
- Walter Reed Army Institute of Research, Silver Spring, MD, 20902, U.S.A
| | - Lance A Durden
- Department of Biology, Georgia Southern University, Statesboro, GA, 30458, U.S.A
| | - Hannah S Tiffin
- Department of Entomology, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, 16802, U.S.A
| | - Alexandra Pagac
- Department of Entomology, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, 16802, U.S.A
| | - Andrew Y Li
- USDA, ARS, Invasive Insect Biocontrol and Behavior Laboratory, 10300 Baltimore Avenue, Beltsville, MD, 20705, U.S.A
| | - Erika T Machtinger
- Department of Entomology, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, 16802, U.S.A
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Babesiosis caused by Babesia vogeli in dogs from Uberlândia State of Minas Gerais, Brazil. Parasitol Res 2020; 119:1173-1176. [PMID: 32140779 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-019-06515-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2019] [Accepted: 10/15/2019] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
Babesia is tick-transmitted protozoan parasites that infect mammalian hosts and have a major impact on farm and pet health-associated costs worldwide. This study aimed to test the prevalence of Babesia spp. infection in a small cohort of dogs at a veterinary hospital and to perform molecular characterization of the Babesia species causing the infection. For the PCR assay, 5 mL of blood was collected by venipuncture of the cephalic or radial veins in 300 dogs of different ages, sex, and breeds, which were presented to the veterinary hospital of the Federal University of Uberlândia between March 2015 and April 2016. In addition, a drop of blood was collected from the marginal blood vessels of the ear of dogs included in this study. Ninety-two (30.67%) were positive for Babesia spp., as determined by microscopic observation of the blood smear, revealing the presence of intra-erythrocyte merozoites. For molecular characterization by PCR, 17 samples were chosen from dogs who were tested positive for Babesia spp. by blood smears. Among them, B. vogeli was found to infect all 17 dogs, as determined by 99-100% sequence identity (closest GenBank match KT246307) using primers PIRO A/PIRO B. Our results indicate that the species observed in these dogs was B. vogeli.
Collapse
|
39
|
Genomic Characterization of Canine Circovirus Detected in Red Foxes (Vulpes vulpes) from Italy using a New Real-Time PCR Assay. J Wildl Dis 2020. [DOI: 10.7589/2018-11-270] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
|
40
|
Tyrrell JD, Qurollo BA, Tornquist SJ, Schlaich KG, Kelsey J, Chandrashekar R, Breitschwerdt EB. Molecular identification of vector-borne organisms in Ehrlichia seropositive Nicaraguan horses and first report of Rickettsia felis infection in the horse. Acta Trop 2019; 200:105170. [PMID: 31518572 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2019.105170] [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: 06/17/2019] [Revised: 09/09/2019] [Accepted: 09/09/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Certain vector-borne organisms serve as etiological agents of equine disease. After previously identifying a new Ehrlichia species in horses from Mérida, we aimed to determine the infection frequency and screen for a wide range of vector-borne organisms from 93 tick-exposed, Ehrlichia seropositive horses in this region. PCR assays were performed to identify infection by organisms within the following genera: Anaplasma, Babesia, Bartonella, Ehrlichia, Leishmania, Mycoplasma, Neorickettsia, Rickettsia and Theileria. Overall, 90/93 horses (96.8%) were infected with one or more vector-borne organisms. Ninety (96.8%) horses were infected with Theileria equi and 21 (26.8%) with Babesia caballi. Nine (9.7%) horses were infected with the novel Ehrlichia species previously designated H7, reported in horses from Nicaragua and Brazil. Two horses (2.2%) were infected with Rickettsia felis. Anaplasma, Bartonella, Leishmania, Mycoplasma, or Neorickettsia species DNA was not amplified from any horse. Ticks collected from horses infected with vector-borne organisms were identified as Amblyomma cajennense sensu lato and Dermacentor nitens. Horses in Mérida are infected by a range of vector-borne organisms, including B. caballi, T. equi, Ehrlichia species H7, and R. felis. To the authors' knowledge, this constitutes the first report of molecular detection of R. felis in horses.
Collapse
|
41
|
Babesia sp. infection in a zoo-housed polar bear (Ursus maritimus). VETERINARY PARASITOLOGY- REGIONAL STUDIES AND REPORTS 2019; 18:100350. [PMID: 31796190 DOI: 10.1016/j.vprsr.2019.100350] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2019] [Revised: 11/08/2019] [Accepted: 11/09/2019] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
A 28-year-old female polar bear (Ursus maritimus) housed in a zoo in Upstate New York presented with acute inappetence and lethargy. The bear's condition rapidly deteriorated, and because laboratory testing indicated severe hepatic and renal disease, the bear was humanely euthanized. Examination of a blood smear from a sample collected just prior to euthanasia revealed the presence of intra-erythrocytic inclusions, which were identified as Babesia sp. by PCR. Although it is unclear if babesiosis contributed to this bear's clinical signs, this is the first report of Babesia sp. infection in this species. Zoological institutions exhibiting polar bears and located in tick-endemic areas, as well as managers of wild populations, should be aware of this species' susceptibility to babesiosis.
Collapse
|
42
|
Great diversity of Piroplasmida in Equidae in Africa and Europe, including potential new species. VETERINARY PARASITOLOGY- REGIONAL STUDIES AND REPORTS 2019; 18:100332. [PMID: 31796173 DOI: 10.1016/j.vprsr.2019.100332] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2018] [Revised: 05/27/2019] [Accepted: 08/19/2019] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Piroplasms are Apicomplexa tick-borne parasites distributed worldwide. They are responsible for piroplasmosis (theileriosis and babesiosis) in Vertebrata and are therefore of medical and economic importance. Herein, we developed a new real time PCR assay targeting the 5.8S rRNA gene and three standard PCR assays, targeting 18S rRNA, 28S rRNA, and cox1 genes, for the detection of piroplasmids. These assays were first optimized and screened for specificity and sensitivity. Then, they were used to study a total of 548 blood samples and 97 ticks collected from Equidae in four sub-Saharan countries (Senegal, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Chad, and Djibouti) and France (Marseille and Corsica). DNA of piroplasms was detected in 162 of 548 (29.5%) blood samples and in 9 of 97 (9.3%) ticks. The highest prevalence in blood samples was observed in Chad in 2016 with 72.9% positivity rate. Sequencing allowed the identification of four species of piroplasms, including two potentials new species. Theileria equi was mainly found. The highest prevalence was observed in Senegal (14 positive out of 23, 60.87%). Babesia caballi was detected in one horse in Senegal. Two new potential Theileria species were detected: Theileria sp. "Africa", observed in all areas excepted in Marseille and Theileria sp. "Europa", observed in Marseille and Corsica. In conclusion, sensitive and specific PCR assays were developed for epidemiological studies of Piroplasmida. The circulation of multiple species of piroplasms, including two potentials new species, observed among Equidae from sub-Saharan Africa and France.
Collapse
|
43
|
Barash NR, Thomas B, Birkenheuer AJ, Breitschwerdt EB, Lemler E, Qurollo BA. Prevalence of Babesia spp. and clinical characteristics of Babesia vulpes infections in North American dogs. J Vet Intern Med 2019; 33:2075-2081. [PMID: 31334887 PMCID: PMC6766513 DOI: 10.1111/jvim.15560] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2018] [Accepted: 06/28/2019] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Babesiosis is an important cause of thrombocytopenia and hemolytic anemia in dogs. Babesia vulpes, reported in European dogs and North American foxes, rarely has been reported in domestic North American dogs. Newly optimized polymerase chain reaction (PCR) primers facilitate more sensitive amplification of B. vulpes DNA. Objectives To determine the prevalence of Babesia sp. infections in dogs being tested for Babesia infection, and to describe co‐infections and clinicopathologic abnormalities in B. vulpes positive dogs. Animals Dog blood or tissue samples (n = 9367) submitted to a diagnostic laboratory between June 2015 and June 2018 were tested using an optimized Babesia PCR assay. Methods Comprehensive canine vector‐borne disease diagnostic testing was performed on convenience samples. Results Babesia sp. DNA was amplified from 269/9367 (2.9%) North American dogs. Babesia sp. infections included B. gibsoni monoinfection (157; 1.7%), B. vulpes monoinfection (19; 0.20%), and B. gibsoni and B. vulpes coinfection (29; 0.31%). Forty‐three of the 48 total B. vulpes‐infected dogs were American Pit Bull Terrier‐type breeds, of which 36 historically were involved with dog fights. Coinfections with Mycoplasma, Dirofilaria immitis, or Wolbachia and coexposures to Bartonella, Ehrlichia, and Rickettsia spp. were documented in B. vulpes‐infected dogs. Clinicopathologic data in B. vulpes‐infected dogs both with and without coinfections included anemia, thrombocytopenia, hyperglobulinemia, hypoalbuminemia, and proteinuria. Conclusions and Clinical Importance Babesia vulpes infection in domestic North American dogs is commonly found in conjunction with other coinfections, including B. gibsoni and hemotropic Mycoplasma. Similar to B. gibsoni, dog‐to‐dog transmission of B. vulpes may be a frequent mode of transmission.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nanelle R Barash
- Department of Clinical Sciences, North Carolina State University College of Veterinary Medicine, Raleigh, North Carolina
| | - Brittany Thomas
- Department of Clinical Sciences, North Carolina State University College of Veterinary Medicine, Raleigh, North Carolina
| | - Adam J Birkenheuer
- Department of Clinical Sciences, North Carolina State University College of Veterinary Medicine, Raleigh, North Carolina
| | - Edward B Breitschwerdt
- Department of Clinical Sciences, North Carolina State University College of Veterinary Medicine, Raleigh, North Carolina.,Comparative Medicine Institute, North Carolina State University College of Veterinary Medicine, Raleigh, North Carolina
| | - Erica Lemler
- Department of Population Health and Pathobiology, North Carolina State University College of Veterinary Medicine, Raleigh, North Carolina
| | - Barbara A Qurollo
- Department of Clinical Sciences, North Carolina State University College of Veterinary Medicine, Raleigh, North Carolina.,Comparative Medicine Institute, North Carolina State University College of Veterinary Medicine, Raleigh, North Carolina
| |
Collapse
|
44
|
Lashnits E, Grant S, Thomas B, Qurollo B, Breitschwerdt EB. Evidence for vertical transmission of Mycoplasma haemocanis, but not Ehrlichia ewingii, in a dog. J Vet Intern Med 2019; 33:1747-1752. [PMID: 31127669 PMCID: PMC6639480 DOI: 10.1111/jvim.15517] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2018] [Accepted: 05/03/2019] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
A 2-year-old female intact pregnant Beagle was evaluated after the owner surrendered her to a shelter. Prepartum and 2 months postpartum at the time of routine spay, the dam was whole-blood polymerase chain reaction (PCR) positive for Ehrlichia ewingii. She was also whole-blood PCR positive for Mycoplasma haemocanis prepartum and continuously for 5 months thereafter. The dam delivered 5 healthy puppies, 1 of which was whole-blood PCR positive for M. haemocanis. All 5 puppies had antibodies against Ehrlichia spp. at 1 month of age but not thereafter, and all puppies were Ehrlichia spp. PCR negative for 5 months of follow-up. Therefore, this study supports a potential role for vertical transmission in the maintenance of M. haemocanis in dogs as reservoir hosts. In contrast, in this case there was no evidence that E. ewingii was transmitted transplacentally or during the perinatal period.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Erin Lashnits
- Comparative Biomedical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina
| | - Sandra Grant
- Lake Wheeler Veterinary Hospital, Veterinary Services Department, Raleigh, North Carolina
| | - Brittany Thomas
- Vector Borne Disease Diagnostic Laboratory, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina
| | - Barbara Qurollo
- Vector Borne Disease Diagnostic Laboratory, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina
| | - Edward B Breitschwerdt
- Vector Borne Disease Diagnostic Laboratory, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina
| |
Collapse
|
45
|
Mittal M, Kundu K, Chakravarti S, Mohapatra JK, Singh VK, Raja Kumar B, Thakur V, Churamani CP, Kumar A. Canine babesiosis among working dogs of organised kennels in India: A comprehensive haematological, biochemical, clinicopathological and molecular epidemiological multiregional study. Prev Vet Med 2019; 169:104696. [PMID: 31311632 PMCID: PMC7126866 DOI: 10.1016/j.prevetmed.2019.104696] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2018] [Revised: 04/24/2019] [Accepted: 05/21/2019] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
First holistic study on canine babesiosis among working dogs from India. B. gibsoni babesiosis is posing a diagnostic & therapeutic challenge in this country. Atypical babesiosis (MODS, DIC) are being maidenly documented from this country. Simple PCR assay results were statistically found to be significantly false negative. Nested PCR assay to be relied upon as screening and for epidemiological studies.
Canine babesiosis is a serious disease among tick-borne haemoprotozoan diseases, globally. The present study was envisaged for carrying out thorough investigation of the disease among working dogs of organised kennels situated in different agro-climatic zones of India as comprehensive understanding of the disease from this country was pertinently lacking. During the study period of three years (2012–2014), 330 dogs suspected for babesiosis were examined for clinicopathology by their physical examination, haematological and biochemical parameters estimation, while the detection of apicomplexan parasites was confirmed by using various diagnostic techniques i.e. by conventional microscopy, by two different Babesia specific 18S rRNA based PCR protocols (conventional/simple PCR and nested PCR assays) followed by sequencing of obtained PCR amplicons for Babsesia spp. identification. Out of 330 clinical cases screened 5.15% (17/330), 9.09% (30/330) and 15.45% (51/330) were found to be positive in microscopic examination, simple- and nested- PCR assay, respectively. Comparative statistical analyses of these diagnostic assay results revealed that significant difference exists among the three diagnostic methodologies and thus it is recommended that the nested PCR technique be relied upon as a screening molecular assay and also for epidemiological studies of the disease in this country. Phylogenetic analysis based on 18S rRNA depicted the monophyletic nature and clonal expansion among all the B. gibsoni, under study. Sequencing results of PCR amplicons revealed that B. gibsoni has predominantly established itself over B. vogeli as former was incriminated in 47 cases while latter was confirmed in only four animals. Based on the clinical severity, these 51 affected animals were classified into three main groups’ of 17 animals each viz., apparently healthy-, simple or uncomplicated babesiosis- and atypical or complicated babesiosis- group. Haematological and biochemical profiling of these dogs confirmed the characteristics findings of infection by both the Babesia spp. It was observed that the infection by small form of Babesia (B. gibsoni) is posing a significant therapeutic challenge and chemosterilization by commonly prescribed anti-protozoal drugs was not achieved as clinical relapses were often observed. The clinical signs, sequence based confirmation and severity of the infection suggested that there is a positive selection of B. gibsoni (smaller form) over B. vogeli (larger form) in this country and raises serious concerns as prognosis in former is considered to be poor compared to latter. Thus, these findings have opened new paradigms for planning of pragmatic control strategies against this emerging canine health problem.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mitesh Mittal
- Central Military Veterinary Laboratory (CMVL), Sardhana Road, Meerut Cantt, Meerut, Uttar Pradesh, India; Defence Institute of Bio-Energy Research (DIBER), Project Site Secunderabad, Military Farm Road, Old Bowenpally, Secunderabad, Telangana State, India.
| | - Krishnendu Kundu
- Department of Veterinary Parasitology, KNP College of Veterinary Science, Shirwal, District-Satara, Maharashtra, India
| | - Soumendu Chakravarti
- Division of Biological Products, Indian Veterinary Research Institute-Izatnagar, Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Jajati K Mohapatra
- Project Directorate on Foot and Mouth Disease, Mukteswar, Nainital, Uttarakhand, India
| | - V K Singh
- Central Military Veterinary Laboratory (CMVL), Sardhana Road, Meerut Cantt, Meerut, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - B Raja Kumar
- Central Military Veterinary Laboratory (CMVL), Sardhana Road, Meerut Cantt, Meerut, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Vikas Thakur
- Central Military Veterinary Laboratory (CMVL), Sardhana Road, Meerut Cantt, Meerut, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - C P Churamani
- Central Military Veterinary Laboratory (CMVL), Sardhana Road, Meerut Cantt, Meerut, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Anil Kumar
- Central Military Veterinary Laboratory (CMVL), Sardhana Road, Meerut Cantt, Meerut, Uttar Pradesh, India
| |
Collapse
|
46
|
Detection and Prevalence of Babesia spp. in American Black Bears ( Ursus americanus) from Eastern and Western North Carolina, USA. J Wildl Dis 2019; 55:678-681. [PMID: 30694717 DOI: 10.7589/2018-06-164] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Blood samples collected from American black bears (Ursus americanus) in eastern and western North Carolina, US, were analyzed for piroplasms. Piroplasmids were detected in 17% (23/132) of the animals surveyed. We detected a Babesia spp. previously identified in North American raccoons (Procyon lotor) and a maned wolf (Chrysocyon brachyurus); prevalence was 22% (14/64) and 13% (9/68) in the mountain and coastal black bear populations, respectively. The presence of the same Babesia species in black bears, raccoons, and a maned wolf suggests piroplasms may not be host specific.
Collapse
|
47
|
Birkenheuer AJ, Marr HS, Wilson JM, Breitschwerdt EB, Qurollo BA. Babesia gibsoni cytochrome b mutations in canine blood samples submitted to a US veterinary diagnostic laboratory. J Vet Intern Med 2018; 32:1965-1969. [PMID: 30307644 PMCID: PMC6272040 DOI: 10.1111/jvim.15300] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2018] [Revised: 05/30/2018] [Accepted: 07/24/2018] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Babesiosis caused by Babesia gibsoni is recognized throughout the world and can be difficult to treat. Resistance to atovaquone is associated with mutations in the B. gibsoni mitochondrial genome, specifically the M128 position of cytochrome b (cytb). The prevalence of cytb mutations in North America has not been reported. HYPOTHESIS/OBJECTIVES The objective of our study was to describe the prevalence of cytb M128 mutations in B. gibsoni in canine blood samples submitted to a US veterinary diagnostic laboratory. A secondary objective was to determine whether or not some dogs had wild-type cytb in our initial samples then had M128 mutations detected in follow-up samples. ANIMALS One-Hundred seventy-four dogs that tested positive for the presence of B. gibsoni between 2012 and 2017. METHODS Case series of consecutive samples submitted to a veterinary diagnostic laboratory. Partial B. gibsoni cytb genes were amplified by polymerase chain reaction and screened for the presence of mutations at the M128 position. RESULTS The overall prevalence of M128 mutants was 3.5% (6/173 dogs) in the initial samples. The incidence of new cytb mutants in dogs that tested positive for B. gibsoni, which then had follow-up testing, was 12.1% (5/41). Conclusions and Clinic Importance: Our study reaffirms that B. gibsoni infection is widespread and most commonly detected in American Staffordshire Terrier/American Pit Bull Terrier dogs (128/174, 74% of the infected dogs in our study). The prevalence of cytb mutations does not warrant pretreatment genotyping.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Adam J. Birkenheuer
- Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary MedicineNorth Carolina State UniversityRaleighNorth Carolina
| | - Henry S. Marr
- Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary MedicineNorth Carolina State UniversityRaleighNorth Carolina
| | - James M. Wilson
- Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary MedicineNorth Carolina State UniversityRaleighNorth Carolina
| | - Edward B. Breitschwerdt
- Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary MedicineNorth Carolina State UniversityRaleighNorth Carolina
| | - Barbara A. Qurollo
- Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary MedicineNorth Carolina State UniversityRaleighNorth Carolina
| |
Collapse
|
48
|
A new PCR assay for the detection and differentiation of Babesia canis and Babesia vogeli. Ticks Tick Borne Dis 2017; 8:862-865. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ttbdis.2017.07.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2017] [Revised: 06/30/2017] [Accepted: 07/01/2017] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
|