1
|
Máca O, Gudiškis N, Butkauskas D, González-Solís D, Prakas P. Red foxes ( Vulpes vulpes) and raccoon dogs ( Nyctereutes procyonoides) as potential spreaders of Sarcocystis species. Front Vet Sci 2024; 11:1392618. [PMID: 38903682 PMCID: PMC11188440 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2024.1392618] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2024] [Accepted: 04/29/2024] [Indexed: 06/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Sarcocystis includes a global group of apicomplexan parasites with two-host life cycle frequently circulating in wildlife and domestic hosts, including humans. Two of the most important wild terrestrial carnivores acting as definitive hosts are the red fox and raccoon dog, due to their wide distribution in Europe and usage of wild and farmed animals as prey. This study was conducted to determine the prevalence of Sarcocystis in hunted red foxes and raccoon dogs from nine regions of the Czech Republic and to identify isolated sporocysts by molecular techniques. Methods Approximately 5 g of the contents of large intestine from 200 animals (197 red foxes and three raccoon dogs) were examined by flotation centrifugation coprological method. Only samples of 50 red foxes and one raccoon dog positive to Sarcocystis spp. were used for the nested PCR (nPCR) method to amplify a fragment or partial sequence on the cox1 gene. Ten species-specific primer pairs for detection of Sarcocystis spp. using farm animals as intermediate hosts were utilized. Results In total, 38.1% of the red foxes and 66.7% of the raccoon dogs were positive to Sarcocystis by light microscopy. The molecular characterization resulted in the identification of five species in the red fox: S. arieticanis, S. capracanis, S. cruzi, S. miescheriana, and S. tenella, while the PCR was negative for the sole raccoon dog. The highest intraspecific variation was found for S. miescheriana, while S. tenella was the most prevalent. Co-infections occurred in the large intestine of the red fox. No zoonotic species were found in our samples. Conclusion This is the first study where the potential role of the red fox and raccoon dogs as spreaders of Sarcocystis to farm animals in the Czech Republic is shown. The use of species-specific primers provides a fast and easy method for screening multiple samples for a particular Sarcocystis species.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ondřej Máca
- Department of Pathology and Parasitology, State Veterinary Institute Prague, Prague, Czechia
- Department of Zoology and Fisheries, Faculty of Agrobiology, Food and Natural Resources, Czech University of Life Sciences Prague, Prague, Czechia
| | | | | | - David González-Solís
- Department of Systematics and Aquatic Ecology, El Colegio de la Frontera Sur, Chetumal, Mexico
| | | |
Collapse
|
2
|
Rubiola S, Moré G, Civera T, Hemphill A, Frey CF, Basso W, Colasanto I, Vercellino D, Fidelio M, Lovisone M, Chiesa F. Detection of Sarcocystis hominis, Sarcocystis bovifelis, Sarcocystis cruzi, Sarcocystis hirsuta and Sarcocystis sigmoideus sp. nov. in carcasses affected by bovine eosinophilic myositis. Food Waterborne Parasitol 2024; 34:e00220. [PMID: 38313347 PMCID: PMC10834464 DOI: 10.1016/j.fawpar.2024.e00220] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2023] [Revised: 01/17/2024] [Accepted: 01/17/2024] [Indexed: 02/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Bovine eosinophilic myositis is an inflammatory myopathy characterized by multiple focal or diffuse grey to green patches leading to condemnation of affected carcasses. Although its etiology is still uncertain, there is evidence that Sarcocystis species may play a role in the development of eosinophilic myositis. The goal of the present study was to identify Sarcocystis spp. in intralesional and extralesional tissues of condemned cattle carcasses, in order to evaluate the possible role of different bovine Sarcocystis spp. in the etiology of bovine eosinophilic myositis. Muscle samples (n = 100) of 26 affected carcasses were collected in Northern Italy. One to five samples with lesions and two aliquots of tissue without lesions were collected from each carcass; lesions were grossly categorized in green focal lesions and green diffuse patches. Genomic DNA was extracted and analyzed by multiplex-PCR targeting different Sarcocystis spp. Unidentified species were characterized morphologically (light microscopy, histology), ultrastructurally (scanning and transmission electron microscopy) and on the molecular level (complete 18S rRNA gene and partial cox1 gene sequencing). A bovine eosinophilic myositis prevalence of 0.017% was visually assessed by routine carcass inspection between 2014 and 2019 in Italy (184/1,108,150 slaughtered cattle). Out of 26 carcasses, 25 revealed the presence of at least one Sarcocystis species (96.2%). The presence of Sarcocystis spp. DNA was significantly more frequent in intralesional than in extralesional samples. Considering the different species, Sarcocystis bovifelis and Sarcocystis hominis were significantly more frequent in intralesional (41.7% and 50%, respectively) than in extralesional samples (1.9% and 15.4%, respectively), while there was no significant difference between the presence of Sarcocystis cruzi and Sarcocystis hirsuta in intralesional (27.1% and 2.1%, respectively) and extralesional (30.8% and 1.9%, respectively) samples. The presence of an unnamed Sarcocystis sp. showing thick-walled (3.7-5.4 μm) cysts with densely packed, flattened, undulating and narrow protrusions, which showed an S-shape in side view, was recorded in the diaphragm of two carcasses. Genomic DNA from individual sarcocysts isolated from the diaphragm was successfully amplified and further sequenced. Sequence comparison revealed <94.6% and 83.4% identity at 18S rRNA and cox1 genes, respectively, with other named Sarcocystis spp., while the phylogenetic analysis clearly separated the unnamed Sarcocystis sp. from the other Sarcocystis spp. using cattle as intermediate hosts. The present study contributes to the understanding of the importance of different Sarcocystis spp. in the pathogenesis of bovine eosinophilic myositis. The results emphasize the association of Sarcocystis hominis and Sarcocystis bovifelis with bovine eosinophilic myositis and highlight the presence of a new Sarcocystis sp. using cattle as intermediate hosts. The name Sarcocystis sigmoideus sp. nov. is proposed for the newly described Sarcocystis species.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Selene Rubiola
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Turin, 10095 Grugliasco, TO, Italy
| | - Gastón Moré
- Institute of Parasitology, University of Bern, 3012 Bern, Switzerland
| | - Tiziana Civera
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Turin, 10095 Grugliasco, TO, Italy
| | - Andrew Hemphill
- Institute of Parasitology, University of Bern, 3012 Bern, Switzerland
| | - Caroline F Frey
- Institute of Parasitology, University of Bern, 3012 Bern, Switzerland
| | - Walter Basso
- Institute of Parasitology, University of Bern, 3012 Bern, Switzerland
| | - Irene Colasanto
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Turin, 10095 Grugliasco, TO, Italy
| | - Davide Vercellino
- ASL TO3 di Collegno e Pinerolo, SC Igiene degli Allevamenti e delle Produzioni Zootecniche, 10093 Collegno, TO, Italy
| | - Marta Fidelio
- ASL di Asti, Servizio Veterinario Area B, 14100 Asti, AT, Italy
| | - Mauro Lovisone
- ASL di Asti, Servizio Veterinario Area B, 14100 Asti, AT, Italy
| | - Francesco Chiesa
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Turin, 10095 Grugliasco, TO, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Šneideris D, Moskaliova D, Butkauskas D, Prakas P. The Distribution of Sarcocsytis Species Described by Ungulates-Canids Life Cycle in Intestines of Small Predators of the Family Mustelidae. Acta Parasitol 2024; 69:747-758. [PMID: 38413556 DOI: 10.1007/s11686-024-00814-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2023] [Accepted: 01/19/2024] [Indexed: 02/29/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE Using molecular techniques, we have previously shown that carnivorous mammals of the family Mustelidae might be common definitive hosts for various protozoan Sarcocystis species. In the present study we aimed to unravel whether Sarcocystis species using ungulates as intermediate hosts and canids or felids as definitive hosts can be found in intestine of mustelids. METHODS Small intestine samples of 93 individual mustelids of five different species from Lithuania were examined. Sarcocystis species were identified based on species-specific PCR and subsequent cox1 sequencing. RESULTS Six Sarcocystis species (S. arieticanis, S. bertrami, S. capracanis, S. capreolicanis, S. linearis and S. morae) defined by ungulate-canid life cycle were detected for the first time in small intestines of mustelids. By contrast, the prevalence of Sarcocystis characterised by ungulate-felid life cycle was low (3.2%). Overall, 76% of the examined animals were positive for at least one of the studied Sarcocystis species. Four species, S. arieticanis, S. bertrami, S. capracanis and S. morae were most commonly found, with the detection rate of about 40%. CONCLUSIONS The current finding, in addition to our previous studies, suggests that mustelids play an important role in the spread of various Sarcocystis species.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Petras Prakas
- Nature Research Centre, Akademijos 2, 08412, Vilnius, Lithuania
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Jauregui Z, Salas-Fajardo MY, Puicón V, Lucas JR. Prevalence and distribution pattern of Sarcocystis spp. in slaughtered cattle from the Peruvian tropical Andes, Peru. Vet Parasitol Reg Stud Reports 2024; 48:100990. [PMID: 38316505 DOI: 10.1016/j.vprsr.2024.100990] [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: 05/18/2023] [Revised: 12/12/2023] [Accepted: 01/17/2024] [Indexed: 02/07/2024]
Abstract
This study aimed to estimate the prevalence and distribution patterns of Sarcocystis spp. in cattle tissues in Chachapoyas province in the Peruvian tropical Andes. Additionally, the risk factors associated with the prevalence and the correlation of two diagnostic techniques (direct microscopy of squashed fresh muscle tissues and histopathology) were explored. The tongue, heart, esophagus, Latissimus dorsi muscle, and diaphragm of 210 animals slaughtered in the municipal slaughterhouse of Chachapoyas were evaluated by both techniques. Macroscopic sarcocysts were detected in 16.7% of tissues (CI 95% 11.7-21.7%). The total prevalence of Sarcocystis spp. was 96.2% (95% CI 93.6-98.8%) by direct light microscopy and 100% by histopathology. The highest Sarcocystis prevalence was detected in the esophagus. No significant statistical differences were found in the prevalence of Sarcocystis related to sex, age, or provenance. Both techniques demonstrated a very weak Kappa correlation (κ ≤ 0.24) in predicting the presence of the parasite in each of the five evaluated muscles. Direct microscopy can be implemented at slaughterhouses as a rapid screening test, but it is essential to confirm by histopathology the absence of the parasite in direct-microscopy-negative samples. It is also recommended that beef from the Peruvian Andes be thoroughly cooked for both human and animal consumption because of the zoonotic potential of some species of Sarcocystis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zoilita Jauregui
- Private Veterinary Practitioner, Amazonas Department, CP 0100, Peru
| | | | - Víctor Puicón
- School of Veterinary Medicine, Universidad Nacional de San Martín, Tarapoto, CP 22201, Peru
| | - J Raul Lucas
- School of Veterinary Medicine, Universidad Nacional Mayor de San Marcos, San Borja, Lima 15021, Peru.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Elshahawy IS, Fawaz M, Gomaa A, Mohammed E. Prevalence and first molecular identification of Sarcocystis species in feces of domestic dogs (Canis familiaris) in Egypt. BMC Vet Res 2023; 19:278. [PMID: 38110960 PMCID: PMC10726512 DOI: 10.1186/s12917-023-03841-8] [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: 05/28/2023] [Accepted: 12/01/2023] [Indexed: 12/20/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Sarcocystis species are obligatorily heteroxenous protozoan parasites with predator-prey life cycles. Global Knowledge about the epidemiology and the distribution pattern of different Sarcocystis species in dog feces are very scarce. Therefore, the current investigation was conducted to declare the occurrence of Sarcocystis in the fecal specimens of the most common canids in Egypt, the domestic dogs, and to identify the species present using various parasitological and molecular approaches. METHODS A total of 100 dog fecal samples were collected and screened using fecal sugar flotation test for the presence of Sarcocystis oocysts/sporocysts. Additionally, thirty samples were used for genomic DNA extraction. The 18S rRNA gene fragment was the target of primers for a PCR, followed by purification and sequencing of the amplicons. RESULTS Currently, the results obtained reviewed that 4% of fecal samples were positive for Sarcocystis spp. using LM. Additionally, Sarcocystis spp. were verified in sixteen dogs (53.3%, 16/30) using PCR and subsequent sequencing protocols. Statistically, insignificant difference in prevalence of sarcocystosis relative to age and gender was noticed. Morphologically, the detected sporocysts measured 13.2-16.0 × 9.4-11 μm. Based on the 18S rRNA gene, sequencing analysis of amplicons from sporocysts DNA revealed 99.82% nucleotide homology with published S. tenella partial nucleotide sequences from sheep in Iraq and Iran. CONCLUSIONS This is the first molecular evidence in support of the final host role of domestic dogs in the life cycle of S. tenella in Egypt, which provides a precious diagnostic tool for further epidemiological studies and for the assessment of the effectiveness of control measures for this disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ismail S Elshahawy
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, South Valley University, Qena, 83523, Egypt.
| | - Marwa Fawaz
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, South Valley University, Qena, 83523, Egypt
| | - Aya Gomaa
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, South Valley University, Qena, 83523, Egypt
| | - Eman Mohammed
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, South Valley University, Qena, 83523, Egypt
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Bentancourt Rossoli JV, Moré G, Soto-Cabrera A, Moore DP, Morrell EL, Pedrana J, Scioli MV, Campero LM, Basso W, Hecker YP, Scioscia NP. Identification of Sarcocystis spp. in synanthropic (Muridae) and wild (Cricetidae) rodents from Argentina. Parasitol Res 2023; 123:31. [PMID: 38085379 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-023-08036-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2023] [Accepted: 11/09/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023]
Abstract
The occurrence of Sarcocystis species was investigated in synanthropic (Muridae) and wild (Cricetidae) rodents from Argentina. Nine species were captured (n = 356). Sarcocysts were detected in muscles of 8.7% (31/356) and 3.7% (4/106) of the rodents by histopathology and direct microscopic observation, respectively. PCR-sequencing targeting the 18S rRNA, cox1, and ITS1 regions was performed on samples with positive histopathology. Four different 18S rRNA sequences or sequence groups with high intra-group identities (99.6-100%) were detected in Mus musculus, Oxymycterus rufus, Akodon azarae, and Necromys lasiurus. Eight sequences showed 99.5-99.7% identity with S. dispersa. Thirteen sequences showed low identity (95.3-96.4%) with other Sarcocystis spp. The obtained coxI sequences (n = 9) were almost identical to each other and showed a high similarity with S. strixi (99.2-99.5%) and S. lutrae (99.1%), despite the 18S rRNA sequences from the same samples suggested the occurrence of at least two species. This suggests that coxI may not show high variability in Sarcocystis spp. that use rodents as intermediate hosts. Six ITS1 sequences were obtained, showing high identity but low coverage with several Sarcocystis spp. Multilocus sequence typing and BLAST analysis did not lead to an accurate species identification. Possible reasons are the detection of new species or the limited molecular information available from previously described Sarcocystis spp. Phylogeny suggests that the detected Sarcocystis spp. may use raptor birds or snakes as definitive hosts. This study represents the first molecular identification of Sarcocystis spp. in naturally infected rodents of the Cricetidae and Muridae families in South America.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Judith V Bentancourt Rossoli
- Instituto de Investigaciones en Producción, Sanidad y Ambiente (IIPROSAM), Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Universidad Nacional de Mar del Plata (FCEyN-UNMdP), Deán Funes 3350, Nivel 0, 7600, Mar del Plata, Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Godoy Cruz 2290, CABA, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Gastón Moré
- Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Godoy Cruz 2290, CABA, Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Institute of Parasitology, Department of Infectious Diseases and Pathobiology, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Bern, Länggassstrasse 122, CH-3012, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Agustina Soto-Cabrera
- Instituto de Investigaciones en Producción, Sanidad y Ambiente (IIPROSAM), Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Universidad Nacional de Mar del Plata (FCEyN-UNMdP), Deán Funes 3350, Nivel 0, 7600, Mar del Plata, Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Godoy Cruz 2290, CABA, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Dadín P Moore
- Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Godoy Cruz 2290, CABA, Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Instituto de Innovación para la Producción Agropecuaria y el Desarrollo Sostenible (IPADS Balcarce), Ruta 226 Km 73,5, Balcarce, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Eleonora L Morrell
- Instituto de Innovación para la Producción Agropecuaria y el Desarrollo Sostenible (IPADS Balcarce), Ruta 226 Km 73,5, Balcarce, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Julieta Pedrana
- Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Godoy Cruz 2290, CABA, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - María V Scioli
- Instituto de Innovación para la Producción Agropecuaria y el Desarrollo Sostenible (IPADS Balcarce), Ruta 226 Km 73,5, Balcarce, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Lucía M Campero
- Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Godoy Cruz 2290, CABA, Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Instituto de Innovación para la Producción Agropecuaria y el Desarrollo Sostenible (IPADS Balcarce), Ruta 226 Km 73,5, Balcarce, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Walter Basso
- Institute of Parasitology, Department of Infectious Diseases and Pathobiology, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Bern, Länggassstrasse 122, CH-3012, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Yanina P Hecker
- Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Godoy Cruz 2290, CABA, Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Instituto de Innovación para la Producción Agropecuaria y el Desarrollo Sostenible (IPADS Balcarce), Ruta 226 Km 73,5, Balcarce, Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Grupo SALUVET, Facultad de Veterinaria, Avenida Puerta de Hierro s/n, 28040, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Nathalia P Scioscia
- Instituto de Investigaciones en Producción, Sanidad y Ambiente (IIPROSAM), Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Universidad Nacional de Mar del Plata (FCEyN-UNMdP), Deán Funes 3350, Nivel 0, 7600, Mar del Plata, Buenos Aires, Argentina.
- Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Godoy Cruz 2290, CABA, Buenos Aires, Argentina.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Pacifico L, Rubiola S, Buono F, Sgadari M, D'Alessio N, Scarcelli S, Sgroi G, Buglione M, Chiesa F, Restucci B, Fioretti A, Prakas P, Veneziano V. Molecular differentiation of Sarcocystis miescheriana and Sarcocystis suihominis using a new multiplex PCR targeting the mtDNA cox1 gene in wild boars in southern Italy. Res Vet Sci 2023; 164:105039. [PMID: 37812987 DOI: 10.1016/j.rvsc.2023.105039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2023] [Revised: 09/16/2023] [Accepted: 09/23/2023] [Indexed: 10/11/2023]
Abstract
The increase of wild boar populations density and their meat consumption across Europe could expose humans to a plethora of foodborne diseases as sarcocystosis, caused by the zoonotic protozoan Sarcocystis suihominis. Humans become infected by eating raw or undercooked pig (Sus scrofa domesticus) containing S. suihominis sarcocysts. Despite this, to date very few data are available on the risk of infection by this parasite to wild boar (Sus scrofa) meat consumers. Thus, the present study aimed to assess the occurrence of Sarcocystis spp. in wild boars from southern Italy, applying both histology and a new multiplex PCR assay targeting the cox1 gene. Between 2019 and 2020, 997 muscle tissues (i.e., n = 269 oesophagus, n = 277 diaphragms, n = 298 hearts, n = 153 tongues) from 311 wild boars were collected and screened by a combined histological and molecular approach. Overall, 251 (80.7%) animals tested were positive for Sarcocystis spp., and S. miescheriana whose definitive hosts are canids, was the only molecularly identified species. A statistically significant difference (p < 0.05) in the prevalence of Sarcocystis infection was found according to the wild boar age and muscle tissue. Findings outlined the low zoonotic potential of infection to humans via wild boar meat consumption in Italy and the importance of the application of new molecular methods in distinguishing different Sarcocystis species.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Laura Pacifico
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Productions, University of Naples Federico II, Via Delpino 1, Naples, Italy; Department of Prevention, Veterinary Public Health and Food Safety Area, Azienda Sanitaria Locale Caserta, Via Feudo di San Martino 10, Caserta, Italy
| | - Selene Rubiola
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Turin, Largo Braccini 2, Grugliasco, Turin 10095, Italy
| | - Francesco Buono
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Productions, University of Naples Federico II, Via Delpino 1, Naples, Italy.
| | - Mariafrancesca Sgadari
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Productions, University of Naples Federico II, Via Delpino 1, Naples, Italy
| | - Nicola D'Alessio
- Department of Animal Health, Experimental Zooprophylactic Institute of southern Italy, Portici, via Salute 2, Italy; Osservatorio Faunistico Venatorio - Campania Region, Naples, Italy
| | - Stefano Scarcelli
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Productions, University of Naples Federico II, Via Delpino 1, Naples, Italy
| | - Giovanni Sgroi
- Department of Animal Health, Experimental Zooprophylactic Institute of southern Italy, Portici, via Salute 2, Italy
| | - Maria Buglione
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, Via Cintia, 26, Naples, Italy
| | - Francesco Chiesa
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Turin, Largo Braccini 2, Grugliasco, Turin 10095, Italy
| | - Brunella Restucci
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Productions, University of Naples Federico II, Via Delpino 1, Naples, Italy
| | - Alessandro Fioretti
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Productions, University of Naples Federico II, Via Delpino 1, Naples, Italy; Osservatorio Faunistico Venatorio - Campania Region, Naples, Italy
| | - Petras Prakas
- Nature Research Centre, Akademijos Str. 2, Vilnius, Lithuania
| | - Vincenzo Veneziano
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Productions, University of Naples Federico II, Via Delpino 1, Naples, Italy; Osservatorio Faunistico Venatorio - Campania Region, Naples, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Dameshghi F, Shirali S, Shayan P, Shemshadi B. RFLP Analysis of Fragments of the 18S rRNA and Cox1 Genes to Identify Sarcocystis cruzi in Water Buffalo ( Bubalus bubalis) In Guilan Province, North of Iran. IRANIAN JOURNAL OF PARASITOLOGY 2023; 18:464-473. [PMID: 38169553 PMCID: PMC10758076 DOI: 10.18502/ijpa.v18i4.14255] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2023] [Accepted: 07/19/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024]
Abstract
Background Sarcocystosis is a zoonotic disease worldwide caused by Sarcocystis spp., some of these species can show clinical and subclinical manifestations, resulting in financial losses. Our study was performed for identifying Sarcocystis sp., in slaughtered buffalo by PCR-RFLP based strategy with sequencing in Guilan, North of Iran. Methods Overall, 400 fresh muscle samples were prepared via naked-eye observation from 100 buffaloes (esophagus, diaphragm, shoulder, and thigh), followed by the digestion of samples. The PCR was done to amplify partial parts of the 18S rRNA and mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (Cox1) genes. Then, the PCR products were digested by endonuclease SspI, DraI, and FokI. Sequencing of all species was done to confirm the RFLP results. Results Five macroscopic cysts (1.25%) were visible in the sample by naked-eye examination. Furthermore, 293 samples (73.25%) were found to be Sarcocystis sp. positive through tissue digestion and microscopic observation, whereas 376 samples (94%) were positive by PCR. In addition, the findings of PCR-RFLP and nucleotide sequence samples exhibited the infection of buffaloes with S. cruzi. Conclusion Based on the data presented herein, Bovine sarcocystosis caused by S. cruzi is very common in buffalo in the Guilan region. Regarding the high prevalence of sarcocystosis, developing disease control and prevention policies for buffaloes is necessary, and a change of attitude in traditional farming is recommended.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fatemeh Dameshghi
- Department of Pathobiology, Science and Research Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Saloomeh Shirali
- Department of Pathobiology, Science and Research Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
- Department of Biotechnology, Ahvaz Branch, Islamic Azad University, Ahvaz, Iran
| | - Parviz Shayan
- Department of Pathobiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Bahar Shemshadi
- Department of Pathobiology, Science and Research Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Marandykina-Prakienė A, Butkauskas D, Gudiškis N, Juozaitytė-Ngugu E, Bagdonaitė DL, Kirjušina M, Calero-Bernal R, Prakas P. Sarcocystis Species Richness in Sheep and Goats from Lithuania. Vet Sci 2023; 10:520. [PMID: 37624307 PMCID: PMC10458481 DOI: 10.3390/vetsci10080520] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2023] [Revised: 08/03/2023] [Accepted: 08/09/2023] [Indexed: 08/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Contradictory data is available on the intermediate host specificity of Sarcocystis spp. in farm animals. Therefore, the current work aimed at molecularly testing samples of sheep and goats reared in Lithuania to identify Sarcocystis species described in other intermediate hosts but suspected to be non-canonical parasites to these small ruminants. For this purpose, muscle samples from 47 domestic sheep and nine goats were examined. Sarcocystis species were identified using direct and nested PCR targeting cox1 and sequencing of positive amplified products. Along with the detection of the canonical Sarcocystis spp. in their respective intermediate hosts, the DNA of S. capracanis and S. morae was detected in sheep, although these species were previously thought to be specific to goats and deer, respectively. In addition, DNA from S. arieticanis and S. tenella was found in goats, even though these two species were believed to be sheep-specific. Notably, under light microscopy, only sarcocysts of S. capracanis specific to goats were observed. Thus, future research on the life cycle and host-specificity of Sarcocystis spp. examined is warranted.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alina Marandykina-Prakienė
- Nature Research Centre, Akademijos 2, 08412 Vilnius, Lithuania; (A.M.-P.); (D.B.); (N.G.); (E.J.-N.); (D.L.B.)
| | - Dalius Butkauskas
- Nature Research Centre, Akademijos 2, 08412 Vilnius, Lithuania; (A.M.-P.); (D.B.); (N.G.); (E.J.-N.); (D.L.B.)
| | - Naglis Gudiškis
- Nature Research Centre, Akademijos 2, 08412 Vilnius, Lithuania; (A.M.-P.); (D.B.); (N.G.); (E.J.-N.); (D.L.B.)
| | - Evelina Juozaitytė-Ngugu
- Nature Research Centre, Akademijos 2, 08412 Vilnius, Lithuania; (A.M.-P.); (D.B.); (N.G.); (E.J.-N.); (D.L.B.)
| | - Dovilė Laisvūnė Bagdonaitė
- Nature Research Centre, Akademijos 2, 08412 Vilnius, Lithuania; (A.M.-P.); (D.B.); (N.G.); (E.J.-N.); (D.L.B.)
| | - Muza Kirjušina
- Institute of Life Sciences and Technology, Daugavpils University, Parādes Street 1A, 5401 Daugavpils, Latvia;
| | - Rafael Calero-Bernal
- SALUVET Group, Animal Health Department, Complutense University, Ciudad Universitaria s/n, 28040 Madrid, Spain;
| | - Petras Prakas
- Nature Research Centre, Akademijos 2, 08412 Vilnius, Lithuania; (A.M.-P.); (D.B.); (N.G.); (E.J.-N.); (D.L.B.)
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Canova V, Helman E, Robles MDR, Abba AM, Moré G. First report of Sarcocystis spp. (Apicomplexa, Sarcocystidae) in Lagostomus maximus (Desmarest, 1917) (Rodentia, Chinchillidae) in Argentina. Int J Parasitol Parasites Wildl 2023; 20:180-186. [PMID: 36936253 PMCID: PMC10020485 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijppaw.2023.03.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2023] [Revised: 03/03/2023] [Accepted: 03/04/2023] [Indexed: 03/08/2023]
Abstract
Sarcocystis is a genus of intracellular parasitic protozoa that infects various species of mammals, birds, and reptiles worldwide. At least 46 Sarcocystis species naturally infect rodents as intermediate hosts producing tissue cysts. This study aimed to provide the first report and molecular characterisation of Sarcocystis spp. in muscles from plains viscacha (Lagostomus maximus) in Argentina. Muscle samples of 53 plains viscachas from three provinces of Argentina were processed by homogenisation and optical microscopy to detect tissue cysts. Positive samples were analysed by PCR-sequencing, using the following markers: 18S rRNA, ITS1, and coxI. The 18S rRNA and coxI consensus sequences were aligned with other sequences from Sarcocystis spp., and phylogenetic trees were constructed. Of all animals processed, 13.2% (7/53) harboured Sarcocystis sp. cysts. 18S rRNA consensus sequences were obtained from four muscle samples and one individual cyst, and they showed 99.88-100% similarity, except for the cyst sequence, which showed 97.11% homology. Similarities of only 96-97% were recorded in the 18S rRNA fragment with other Sarcocystis spp. whose sequences are available in the GenBank. The five coxI fragment sequences obtained were 100% identical and showed an identity of 99.41-99.48% with S. canis. For ITS1 only short and low-quality sequences were obtained. In the phylogenetic trees, all the sequences from plains viscachas were positioned together in a branch separated from other Sarcocystis spp. These results could be related to new Sarcocystis spp. producing sarcocysts in plains viscachas. Besides, comprehensive cyst morphological analysis using TEM from the new Sarcocystis species will allow a description of the cyst wall ultrastructure. In this sense, further studies are needed to deepen these findings and elucidate other potential intermediate and possible definitive hosts.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Victoria Canova
- Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Godoy Cruz 2290, (C1425FQB) CABA, Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Centro de Estudios Parasitológicos y de Vectores (CEPAVE), Bv 120 e/ 60 y 64, (1900), CCT- CONICET- La Plata, Universidad Nacional de La Plata, La Plata, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Elisa Helman
- Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Godoy Cruz 2290, (C1425FQB) CABA, Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Laboratorio de Inmunoparasitología (LAINPA), Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias, Universidad Nacional de La Plata (FCV-UNLP), La Plata (1900), Argentina
| | - María del Rosario Robles
- Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Godoy Cruz 2290, (C1425FQB) CABA, Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Centro de Estudios Parasitológicos y de Vectores (CEPAVE), Bv 120 e/ 60 y 64, (1900), CCT- CONICET- La Plata, Universidad Nacional de La Plata, La Plata, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Agustín M. Abba
- Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Godoy Cruz 2290, (C1425FQB) CABA, Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Centro de Estudios Parasitológicos y de Vectores (CEPAVE), Bv 120 e/ 60 y 64, (1900), CCT- CONICET- La Plata, Universidad Nacional de La Plata, La Plata, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Gastón Moré
- Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Godoy Cruz 2290, (C1425FQB) CABA, Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Laboratorio de Inmunoparasitología (LAINPA), Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias, Universidad Nacional de La Plata (FCV-UNLP), La Plata (1900), Argentina
- Institute of Parasitology, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Berne, Langgasssstrasse 122 (3012), Berne, Switzerland
- Corresponding author. Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Godoy Cruz 2290, (C1425FQB) CABA, Buenos Aires, Argentina.
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
A Case of Bovine Eosinophilic Myositis (BEM) Associated with Co-Infection by Sarcocystis hominis and Toxoplasma gondii. Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:ani13020311. [PMID: 36670850 PMCID: PMC9854639 DOI: 10.3390/ani13020311] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2022] [Revised: 01/11/2023] [Accepted: 01/13/2023] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Bovine eosinophilic myositis (BEM) is a specific inflammatory myopathy, often associated with Sarcocystis spp., with multifocal gray-green lesions leading to carcass condemnation with considerable economic losses. Here is described a peculiar case of BEM that occurred in an adult (16 month) cattle, born in France, bred, and slaughtered in Italy at the end of 2021. On inspection, muscles showed the typical multifocal gray-green lesions that were sampled for, cytological, histological, and molecular investigations, while meat juice was subjected to IFAT for Toxoplasma IgG. Genomic DNA was extracted from lesions, portions of healthy muscle and from meat juice pellet and analyzed by PCR targeting 18S rDNA, COI mtDNA and B1 genes, and sequenced. The cytology showed inflammatory cells mostly referable to eosinophils; at histology, protozoan cysts and severe granulomatous myositis were observed. A BEM lesion and meat juice pellet subjected to PCR showed, concurrently, sequences referable both to S. hominis and T. gondii. Meat juice IFAT resulted negative for T. gondii IgG. Our findings highlight the first detection of T. gondii DNA in association with S. hominis in a BEM case, suggesting a multiple parasite infection associated with this pathology, although the actual role of T. gondii infection in the pathophysiology of the diseases should be clarified.
Collapse
|
12
|
Baranauskaitė A, Strazdaitė-Žielienė Ž, Servienė E, Butkauskas D, Prakas P. Molecular Identification of Protozoan Sarcocystis in Different Types of Water Bodies in Lithuania. LIFE (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 13:life13010051. [PMID: 36676000 PMCID: PMC9864107 DOI: 10.3390/life13010051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2022] [Accepted: 12/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Representatives of the genus Sarcocystis are unicellular parasites having a two-host life cycle and infecting mammals, birds, and reptiles. Until now, Sarcocystis spp. have been mainly investigated in definitive and intermediate hosts. Only a few studies have been conducted on the detection of Sarcocystis parasites in water samples. The aim of this research was to examine whether the prevalence of Sarcocystis spp. parasitizing farm animals varies in different types of water bodies. Water samples (n = 150) were collected from the entire territory of Lithuania, dividing water bodies into five groups (lakes, rivers, ponds/canals, swamps, and the inshore zone of the territorial Baltic Sea area). One-liter samples were filtered and subsequently analyzed using nested PCR. At least one of the analyzed Sarcocystis spp. (S. arieticanis, S. bertrami, S. bovifelis, S. capracanis, S. cruzi, S. hirsuta, S. miescheriana, and S. tenella) was determined in all examined samples from water bodies. No significant difference in Sarcocystis spp. prevalence between different types of water sources was detected. Our research proved that selecting appropriate primers is important for the accurate identification of parasites in samples collected from water bodies.
Collapse
|
13
|
Bovine sarcocystosis: Sarcocystis species, diagnosis, prevalence, economic and public health considerations, and association of Sarcocystis species with eosinophilic myositis in cattle. Int J Parasitol 2022:S0020-7519(22)00163-1. [PMID: 36462560 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpara.2022.09.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2022] [Revised: 09/15/2022] [Accepted: 09/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/05/2022]
Abstract
Infections by Sarcocystis in cattle are ubiquitous worldwide. There is considerable debate concerning the identity of Sarcocystis spp. in cattle. Proper diagnosis of Sarcocystis spp. is important to assess their economic and public health importance. Currently there are seven named species: Sarcocystis hirsuta, Sarcocystis cruzi, Sarcocystis hominis, Sarcocystis bovifelis, arcocystis heydorni, Sarcocystis bovini and Sarcocystis rommeli. Additionally, there are unnamed Sarcocystis spp. Two species, S. hominis and S. heydorni, are zoonotic. One out of seven species (S. hirsuta, contracted from cats) forms macroscopic cysts which can be visible during carcass inspection. Current molecular characterization is based on DNA extracted from sarcocysts from naturally infected cattle because DNA was not characterized from tissues of experimentally infected cattle or feces of experimentally infected definitive hosts. Sarcocystis cruzi (transmitted via canids) is recognized as the most pathogenic species and it causes abortion, low milk yield, poor body growth, and outbreaks of clinical sarcocystosis and death. Additionally, Sarcocystis infections have been linked to an inflammatory condition of striated muscles termed bovine eosinophilic myositis (BEM). Cattle affected by BEM appear clinically normal. Diagnosis of BEM at slaughter occurs when inspecting the carcass surface, or once the carcass has been divided into prime cuts or quarters. Sex and breed have no apparent influence on prevalence of BEM. The condition evidently occurs with equal frequency in steers, cows, and heifers. Virtually all striated muscles can be affected including skeletal muscles, the muscles of the eye, larynx, and the heart. In the USA, regulations require condemnation of BEM-affected parts, or (in severe cases) the entire carcass. These aesthetic considerations result in economic losses. Cattle experimentally infected with Sarcocystis did not have BEM at slaughter. Here, we review the status of Sarcocystis spp. and BEM in cattle including prevalence, lesions, epidemiology, and association of BEM with different species of Sarcocystis.
Collapse
|
14
|
Molecular Identification of Sarcocystis Species in Sheep from Lithuania. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:ani12162048. [PMID: 36009638 PMCID: PMC9404443 DOI: 10.3390/ani12162048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2022] [Revised: 08/09/2022] [Accepted: 08/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Data on the distribution of different Sarcocystis species in various muscles of sheep are scarce. In the present study, 190 diaphragm, oesophagus, and heart muscle samples of 69 sheep raised in Lithuania were examined for the presence of Sarcocystis spp. Under a light microscope, two morphological types of microcysts corresponding to S. arieticanis and S. tenella were detected. Eight and 12 sarcocysts of S. arieticanis and S. tenella, respectively, were isolated and characterised by the sequencing of a portion of cox1. The sequence comparisons revealed the highest similarity between European and Asian isolates of S. arieticanis and S. tenella obtained from domestic sheep and other wild Caprinae hosts. Based on peptic digestion, nested PCR targeting cox1, and sequencing, a 100% infection prevalence of S. arieticanis and S. tenella was observed in the 69 studied animals. The occurrence of S. tenella was significantly higher in the diaphragm than in the oesophagus (χ2 = 13.14, p < 0.001), whereas differences in the prevalence of S. arieticanis in the studied muscle types were insignificant (χ2 = 1.28, p > 0.05). Further molecularly based epidemiological studies are needed to compare the prevalence of Sarcocystis species in various muscles of sheep raised in different geographic regions.
Collapse
|
15
|
Strazdaitė-Žielienė Ž, Baranauskaitė A, Butkauskas D, Servienė E, Prakas P. Molecular Identification of Parasitic Protozoa Sarcocystis in Water Samples. Vet Sci 2022; 9:vetsci9080412. [PMID: 36006327 PMCID: PMC9412564 DOI: 10.3390/vetsci9080412] [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: 05/02/2022] [Revised: 06/13/2022] [Accepted: 08/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Members of the genus Sarcocystis are protozoan parasites having two-host prey–predator cycle. These parasites are widespread in farm animals. Sarcocystis species are characterized morphologically in intermediate hosts, and these parasites are identified in definitive hosts by molecular methods. Thus far, only few studies have been conducted on Sarcocystis parasites in environmental samples. The aim of the present work was to evaluate several sample preparation and polymerase chain reaction methods for the identification of several Sarcocystis species in water samples. Overall, 114 samples collected from various water sources, ponds, canals, lakes, lagoons, and rivers in Lithuania were tested for the presence of Sarcocystis spp. Based on molecular methods, eight Sarcocystis species, S. bovifelis, S. cruzi, S. hirsuta, S. arieticanis, S. tenella, S. capracanis, S. bertrami, and S. miescheriana, were identified. The main intermediate hosts of detected Sarcocystis parasites are cattle, sheep, goats, horses, and pigs. Further, more sensitive molecular techniques are needed for the development of the diagnosis of Sarcocystis species in water bodies. Abstract Sarcocystis parasites are among the most common parasitic protozoa in farm animals. So far, the diversity of these parasites has been mainly studied in animal carcasses by morphological or molecular methods. Research on parasitic protozoa in environmental samples is scarce due to the lack of an appropriate methodology and low concentrations of parasites. For these reasons, there is a paucity of validated methods for Sarcocystis identification from environmental samples. Therefore, the present study aims to investigate various molecular methods for Sarcocystis parasite identification in water samples. In the present study, the sample volume, sporocysts isolation, and various conventional PCR were evaluated, and species-specific primers for the identification of different Sarcocystis species have been developed. Of the methods studied, based on data the most appropriate method for the identification of analyzed Sarcocystis spp. in water bodies is nested PCR, using species-specific primers targeting the cox1 gene. Sarcocystis DNA was detected in 111 out of 114 (97.4%) samples. This paper represents the first identification of S. bovifelis, S. cruzi, S. hirsuta, S. arieticanis, S. tenella, S. capracanis, S. bertrami, and S. miescheriana by PCR and sequencing in environmental water samples. Our pilot study is useful in developing techniques for the identification of Sarcocystis species from water samples.
Collapse
|
16
|
Waine K, Bartley PM, Cox A, Newsome R, Strugnell B, Katzer F. Molecular detection of Sarcocystis cruzi in three beef carcases with eosinophilic myositis lesions and in unaffected beef from animals in the same herd. Vet Parasitol Reg Stud Reports 2022; 33:100751. [PMID: 35820725 DOI: 10.1016/j.vprsr.2022.100751] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2021] [Revised: 04/25/2022] [Accepted: 06/09/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Eosinophilic myositis in bovine striated muscle thought to be caused by a hypersensitivity reaction to the degradation of Sarcocystis tissue cysts, is a rare reason for carcase condemnation in the United Kingdom. This paper describes the identification of Sarcocystis cruzi associated with lesions of generalised eosinophilic myositis in three English beef carcases, by gross and histopathological examination followed by PCR with subsequent sequencing. Samples from two unaffected animals were also examined. Although sarcocystosis caused by S.cruzi is not considered a public health risk, the clinically affected carcases were deemed unfit for human consumption due to the extensive lesions affecting meat quality. We believe this to be the first report from the UK describing the molecular-based identification of Sarcocystis cruzi in meat affected and unaffected with eosinophilic myositis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Katie Waine
- University of Nottingham, School of Veterinary Medicine and Science, Sutton Bonington LE12 5RD, United Kingdom..
| | - Paul M Bartley
- The Moredun Research Institute, Pentlands Science Park, Bush Loan, Penicuik, Midlothian EH26 0PZ, United Kingdom
| | - Alistair Cox
- Finn Pathologists, One Eyed Lane, Weybread, Diss Norfolk IP21 5TT, United Kingdom
| | - Reuben Newsome
- Park Vet Group, 82-84 High Street, Whetstone, Leicestershire LE8 6LQ, United Kingdom
| | - Ben Strugnell
- Farm Post Mortems Ltd, Hamsterley House, Hamsterley, Co, Durham DL13 3QF, United Kingdom
| | - Frank Katzer
- The Moredun Research Institute, Pentlands Science Park, Bush Loan, Penicuik, Midlothian EH26 0PZ, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Shams M, Shamsi L, Asghari A, Motazedian MH, Mohammadi-Ghalehbin B, Omidian M, Nazari N, Sadrebazzaz A. Molecular Epidemiology, Species Distribution, and Zoonotic Importance of the Neglected Meat-Borne Pathogen Sarcocystis spp. in Cattle (Bos taurus): A Global Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. Acta Parasitol 2022; 67:1055-1072. [PMID: 35593956 DOI: 10.1007/s11686-022-00563-z] [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: 01/06/2022] [Accepted: 04/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Sarcocystis species are diverse apicomplexan parasites, though only two zoonotic species (S. hominis and S. heydorni) circulate between cattle and humans. Due to the importance of cattle in the human food chain and to prevent the consequences of parasitosis in humans, the first global systematic review and meta-analysis on molecular epidemiology, species distribution, and zoonotic significance of Sarcocystis infection in cattle was performed. METHODS For this aim, four international English databases (PubMed, Scopus, Google Scholar, and Web of Science) were systematically searched till 20th September 2021, and random-effect models were drawn to calculate total estimates and their 95% confidence intervals (CIs). RESULTS Finally, 44 papers from 21 countries were qualified for this review which examined 8526 cattle regarding Sarcocystis infection, rendering a total prevalence of 62.7% (95% CI 53-71.5%). Globally, 12 Sarcocystis spp. have been reported from cattle, including S. cruzi, S. hominis, S. hirsuta, S. rommeli, S. heydorni, S. bovifelis, S. bovini, S. sinensis, S. gigantea, S. fusiformis, S. hjorti and S. tenella. Among them, S. cruzi (37 studies), S. hominis (22 studies) and S. hirsuta (19 studies) were the 3 most common species, with 76.4% (95% CI 64.8-85%), 30.2% (95% CI 19.3-44%) and 8.7% (95% CI 3.8-18.6%), respectively. However, molecular identification was not performed in 48.4% (95% CI 27.3-70.1%) of the positive samples. CONCLUSION Despite the zoonotic significance of Sarcocystis spp., particularly S. hominis, the epidemiology and distribution of Sarcocystis infection in cattle remains unclear and demands more extensive researches around the world.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Morteza Shams
- Zoonotic Diseases Research Center, Ilam University of Medical Sciences, Ilam, Iran
| | - Laya Shamsi
- Department of Pathobiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Urmia University, Urmia, Iran
| | - Ali Asghari
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Mohammad Hossein Motazedian
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | | | - Mostafa Omidian
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Naser Nazari
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran.
| | - Alireza Sadrebazzaz
- Razi Vaccine & Serum Research Institute, Agricultural Research, Education and Extension Organization, Mashhad, Iran
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
A Review on Alaria alata, Toxoplasma gondii and Sarcocystis spp. in Mammalian Game Meat Consumed in Europe: Epidemiology, Risk Management and Future Directions. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:ani12030263. [PMID: 35158587 PMCID: PMC8833328 DOI: 10.3390/ani12030263] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2021] [Revised: 01/14/2022] [Accepted: 01/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary In many European countries, game meat consumption is related to the traditional hunting culture. Its demand and consumption are increasing, also due to the growing populations of wild ungulates. However, specific public health issues exist and should be taken into account. This review focuses on the causal agents, epidemiology, potential risk for human health and its management along the supply chain, including parasite detection at slaughtering and inactivation in meat, of three parasites (Alaria alata, Toxoplasma gondii and Sarcocystis spp.), which can be transmitted by the main mammalian game meat species in the EU: wild boar (Sus scrofa), red deer (Cervus elaphus), roe deer (Capreolus capreolus), fallow deer (Dama dama), Alpine chamois (Rupicapra rupicapra), moose (Alces alces), hare (Lepus europaeus) and wild rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus). By presenting the main issues and knowledge gaps, this study aims to contribute to an improved control supporting the risk analysis process. Abstract Game meat is increasingly appreciated and consumed in Europe, also due to the growing population of wild ungulates. In addition to interesting nutritional properties and market opportunities, game meat is characterized by some specific public health issues. This review focuses on the etiology, epidemiology, public health aspects and risk management along the supply chain, including parasite detection at slaughtering and inactivation in meat, of three selected foodborne parasitic hazards (Alaria alata, Toxoplasma gondii and Sarcocystis spp.) in the main mammalian game meat species in the EU: wild boar (Sus scrofa), red deer (Cervus elaphus), roe deer (Capreolus capreolus), fallow deer (Dama dama), Alpine chamois (Rupicapra rupicapra), moose (Alces alces), hare (Lepus europaeus) and wild rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus). The presented data point out the main issues, and knowledge gaps as well as the potential for improved control in order to contribute to the risk analysis process. To pursue an effective management of these parasitic zoonoses, awareness raising should involve all figures in the supply chain, including hunters, restaurateurs and consumers. Human behaviour and the lack of knowledge regarding meat borne parasitic zoonoses and the health risks they pose seem to be the most important factors responsible for human infections. However, detection methods, starting from the sampling procedure, should be further developed and standardized in order to improve the collection of accurate and up-to-date epidemiological data.
Collapse
|
19
|
Prakas P, Rehbein S, Rudaitytė-Lukošienė E, Butkauskas D. Molecular identification of Sarcocystis species in diaphragm muscle tissue of European mouflon (Ovis gmelini musimon) from Austria. Parasitol Res 2021; 120:2695-2702. [PMID: 34164716 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-021-07212-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2021] [Accepted: 06/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Previous morphological studies suggested that mouflon may have sarcocysts similar to those of sheep. However, to date, no molecular-based studies of the species of Sarcocystis infecting mouflon have been done. The present study identified Sarcocystis species in diaphragm muscle samples from 20 European mouflon (Ovis gmelini musimon). Molecular identification using the cox1 sequence analysis was performed on sarcocysts excised from muscle tissue and on DNA from digested muscle samples. Both frequency and intensity of infection in mouflon were high with 19 of 20 animals testing Sarcocystis positive and > 50 cysts per gram of tissue recovered from 10 of the 19 Sarcocystis positive animals. Molecular analysis revealed dominant Sarcocystis tenella (18/19 animals) and Sarcocystis arieticanis (1/19 animals), whose known intermediate hosts are sheep. In addition, Sarcocystis capracanis, which is known to form sarcocysts in goats, was detected in two animals. The results of this study demonstrated the digestion method to be superior over the direct isolation of sarcocysts for the molecular identification of Sarcocystis species in a certain host. Future research of Sarcocystis diversity in wild ovine and caprine species is needed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Petras Prakas
- Nature Research Centre, Akademijos 2, 08412, Vilnius, Lithuania.
| | - Steffen Rehbein
- Boehringer Ingelheim Vetmedica GmbH, Kathrinenhof Research Center, Rohrdorf, Germany
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
20
|
Invasive American mink (Neovison vison) as potential definitive host of Sarcocystis elongata, S. entzerothi, S. japonica, S. truncata and S. silva using different cervid species as intermediate hosts. Parasitol Res 2021; 120:2243-2250. [PMID: 33945010 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-021-07180-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2021] [Accepted: 04/29/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Canids and scavenger birds were shown to act as definitive hosts of numerous Sarcocystis species using members of the Cervidae family as an intermediate host, whereas definitive hosts spreading closely related S. elongata, S. entzerothi, S. japonica, S. matsuoae, S. rangiferi, S. truncata, S. silva and S. tarandi remain unknown. In the current study, the intestine samples of 40 American minks (Neovison vison) were molecularly tested for the presence of the above-mentioned Sarcocystis spp. Species-specific PCR of cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (cox1) fragments and subsequent sequencing revealed the presence of sporocysts/oocysts of five species, S. elongata (n=2), S. entzerothi (n=10), S. japonica (n=4), S. silva (n=13) and S. truncata (n=21) in the analysed samples. Sarcocystis infection was confirmed in 32/40 (80%) examined samples. In addition, half of the infected animals (50%) were infected with multiple Sarcocystis species suggesting that American minks had access to meat of different deer species, such as roe deer, red deer and sika deer. This causes concern about compliance of hunters and game processing companies with game waste management rules. Further research on the involvement of mustelids in the transmission of various Sarcocystis spp. from different geographical locations is needed.
Collapse
|
21
|
Rubiola S, Civera T, Panebianco F, Vercellino D, Chiesa F. Molecular detection of cattle Sarcocystis spp. in North-West Italy highlights their association with bovine eosinophilic myositis. Parasit Vectors 2021; 14:223. [PMID: 33892779 PMCID: PMC8063337 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-021-04722-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2021] [Accepted: 04/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Cattle are intermediate hosts of six Sarcocystis species, among which Sarcocystis hominis and Sarcocystis heydorni can infect humans through the consumption of raw or undercooked meat. In addition to the zoonotic potential, there is increasing interest in these protozoa because of the evidence supporting the role of Sarcocystis spp. in the occurrence of bovine eosinophilic myositis (BEM), a specific inflammatory myopathy which leads to carcass condemnation and considerable economic losses. Actually, all the prevalence studies carried out on cattle in Italy have been based on either morphological or 18S rDNA-based molecular techniques, most likely leading to misidentification of closely related species. Therefore, there is a strong need for new data on the prevalence of the different Sarcocystis spp. in cattle in Italy and their association with bovine eosinophilic myositis. Methods To reach our aim, individual striated muscle samples from BEM condemned carcasses (N = 54) and diaphragm muscle samples from randomly sampled carcasses (N = 59) were obtained from Northwest Italy slaughterhouses. Genomic DNA was extracted and analyzed by multiplex-PCR targeting 18S rDNA and cox1 genes. PCR products amplified using the genus-specific primer set in absence of the specific fragment for S. hirsuta, S. cruzi, S. hominis or S. bovifelis were sequenced to achieve species identification. Results Sarcocystis DNA was detected in 67.8% of the samples from slaughter cattle and in 90.7% of the samples from BEM condemned carcasses. S. cruzi was identified as the most prevalent species in slaughter cattle (61%), followed by S. bovifelis (10.2%), S. hominis (8.5%) and S. hirsuta (1.7%). Notably, among the different Sarcocystis spp. detected, the presence of S. bovifelis and S. hominis was significantly higher in samples isolated from BEM condemned carcasses (46.3% and 40.7% respectively), while there was no statistically significant difference between the presence of S. cruzi or S. hirsuta in BEM condemned carcasses (42.6% and 1.8%, respectively) and randomly sampled carcasses. Furthermore, DNA sequence analysis revealed the presence of a putative new species in two carcasses. Conclusions Our study contributes to updating the data on the prevalence of the different Sarcocystis spp. in cattle in Italy, highlighting the presence of three Sarcocystis spp., S. cruzi, S. hominis and S. bovifelis, in BEM lesions and allowing us to speculate on the possible role of S. hominis and S. bovifelis as the major sarcosporidian species involved in bovine eosinophilic myositis. Graphic Abstract ![]()
Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13071-021-04722-5.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Selene Rubiola
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Turin, Largo Paolo Braccini 2, 10095, Grugliasco, TO, Italy.
| | - Tiziana Civera
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Turin, Largo Paolo Braccini 2, 10095, Grugliasco, TO, Italy
| | - Felice Panebianco
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Turin, Largo Paolo Braccini 2, 10095, Grugliasco, TO, Italy
| | | | - Francesco Chiesa
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Turin, Largo Paolo Braccini 2, 10095, Grugliasco, TO, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Prakas P, Balčiauskas L, Juozaitytė-Ngugu E, Butkauskas D. The Role of Mustelids in the Transmission of Sarcocystis spp. Using Cattle as Intermediate Hosts. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:ani11030822. [PMID: 33804006 PMCID: PMC7999505 DOI: 10.3390/ani11030822] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2021] [Revised: 03/12/2021] [Accepted: 03/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
There is a lack of research on the role of mustelids in the transmission of various Sarcocystis spp. In the present study we tested the hypothesis that widespread mustelids in Lithuania could be involved in the transmission of Sarcocystis spp. using cattle as intermediate hosts. In 2016-2020, intestinal samples of 84 mustelids were examined. Sarcocystis spp. were identified by species-specific PCR targeting the cox1 gene and subsequent sequencing. Under a light microscope, oocysts/sporocysts of Sarcocystis spp. were observed in 40 samples (47.6%), while using molecular methods, they were detected in 75 animals (89.3%). Four Sarcocystis spp. were identified in the intestinal samples of American mink (Neovisonvison), Beech marten (Martes foina), European pine marten (Martes martes), European badger (Meles meles) and European polecat (Mustela putorius). The prevalence of predominant Sarcocystis spp., S. bovifelis (89.3%) and S. cruzi (73.8%) was significantly higher than that of S. hirsuta (3.6%) and S. hominis (1.2%). In an individual sample, most frequently two Sarcocystis spp. were identified (69.0%), then a single species (15.5%) and three species (4.8%). The present study provides strong evidence that mustelids serve as definitive hosts for Sarcocystis spp. using cattle as intermediate hosts.
Collapse
|
23
|
Hooshyar H, Chehrazi F, Arbabi M. Molecular identification and frequency of cyst-forming coccidia (Sarcocystis, Toxoplasma gondii, and Neospora caninum) in native slaughtered cattle in Kashan, Central Iran. INTERNATIONAL ARCHIVES OF HEALTH SCIENCES 2021. [DOI: 10.4103/iahs.iahs_186_21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
|