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Derderian C, Canales GI, Reiter JF. Seriously cilia: A tiny organelle illuminates evolution, disease, and intercellular communication. Dev Cell 2023; 58:1333-1349. [PMID: 37490910 PMCID: PMC10880727 DOI: 10.1016/j.devcel.2023.06.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2022] [Revised: 01/18/2023] [Accepted: 06/30/2023] [Indexed: 07/27/2023]
Abstract
The borders between cell and developmental biology, which have always been permeable, have largely dissolved. One manifestation is the blossoming of cilia biology, with cell and developmental approaches (increasingly complemented by human genetics, structural insights, and computational analysis) fruitfully advancing understanding of this fascinating, multifunctional organelle. The last eukaryotic common ancestor probably possessed a motile cilium, providing evolution with ample opportunity to adapt cilia to many jobs. Over the last decades, we have learned how non-motile, primary cilia play important roles in intercellular communication. Reflecting their diverse motility and signaling functions, compromised cilia cause a diverse range of diseases collectively called "ciliopathies." In this review, we highlight how cilia signal, focusing on how second messengers generated in cilia convey distinct information; how cilia are a potential source of signals to other cells; how evolution may have shaped ciliary function; and how cilia research may address thorny outstanding questions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Camille Derderian
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Cardiovascular Research Institute, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Gabriela I Canales
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Cardiovascular Research Institute, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Jeremy F Reiter
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Cardiovascular Research Institute, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA; Chan Zuckerberg Biohub, San Francisco, CA 94158, USA.
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2
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Adams AJ, Bushell J, Grasso RL. To treat or not to treat? Experimental pathogen exposure, treatment, and release of a threatened amphibian. Ecosphere 2022. [DOI: 10.1002/ecs2.4294] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Andrea J. Adams
- Resources Management and Science Division Yosemite National Park El Portal California USA
- Earth Research Institute University of California Santa Barbara California USA
| | | | - Robert L. Grasso
- Resources Management and Science Division Yosemite National Park El Portal California USA
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3
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Yuan ML, Frederick JH, McGuire JA, Bell RC, Smith SR, Fenton C, Cassius J, Williams R, Wang IJ, Powell R, Hedges SB. Endemism, invasion, and overseas dispersal: the phylogeographic history of the Lesser Antillean frog, Eleutherodactylus johnstonei. Biol Invasions 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s10530-022-02803-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
AbstractCryptogenic species are those whose native and introduced ranges are unknown. The extent and long history of human migration rendered numerous species cryptogenic. Incomplete knowledge regarding the origin and native habitat of a species poses problems for conservation management and may confound ecological and evolutionary studies. The Lesser Antilles pose a particular challenge with regard to cryptogenic species because these islands have been anthropogenically connected since before recorded history. Here, we use population genetic and phylogeographic tools in an attempt to determine the origin of Eleutherodactylus johnstonei, a frog species with a potentially widespread introduced range and whose native range within the Lesser Antilles is unknown. Based on elevated estimates of genetic diversity and within-island geographic structure not present elsewhere in the range, we identify Montserrat as the native island of E. johnstonei. We also document two major clades within E. johnstonei, only one of which is the primary source of introduced populations throughout the Americas. Our results demonstrate the utility of genetic tools for resolving cryptogenic species problems and highlight E. johnstonei as a potential system for understanding differences in invasive potential among sister lineages.
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Rais M, Ahmed W, Sajjad A, Akram A, Saeed M, Hamid HN, Abid A. Amphibian fauna of Pakistan with notes on future prospects of research and conservation. Zookeys 2021; 1062:157-175. [PMID: 34720620 PMCID: PMC8536617 DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.1062.66913] [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: 04/04/2021] [Accepted: 08/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Research on amphibians and their conservation have gained worldwide attention, as the group includes the highest number of threatened and Data Deficient species when compared to other vertebrates. However, amphibians have long been neglected in wildlife conservation, management decisions, policy making, and research agendas in Pakistan. In this paper, an annotated checklist of the 21 amphibian species of Pakistan, a key to their identification, and detailed discussions on variation in species, including the genera Minervarya and Sphaerotheca, are provided. We found a statistically significant difference in the morphometric measurements of males but non-significant difference in the females of the two forms (rusty dorsum and dotted dorsum) of S.maskeyi. Some genera, such as Microhyla, Uperodon, Minervarya, Allopaa, Chrysopaa, Euphlyctis, Nanorana, and Sphaerotheca, in Pakistan are in need of additional data for molecular and morphological comparisons with taxa in other South Asian countries. The predicaments of amphibian research in Pakistan are discussed, gaps identified, and suggestions are made. Although the occurrence of chytrid fungus in Pakistan is predicted of low likelihood, a lack of data merits studying the prevalence of the fungus, particularly in the northern regions of the country which exhibit complex and dynamic ecosystems. It is recommended that systematic and coordinated surveys are conducted throughout the country to build a database of species occurrences and distributions. Additionally, the monitoring of wild populations and threat mitigation, as well as appropriate legislation, are suggested as long-term measures. By adopting an inclusive wildlife conservation approach in Pakistan, amphibians could be integrated into wildlife conservation and management efforts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Rais
- Herpetology Lab, Department of Wildlife Management, Pir Mehr Ali Shah Arid Agriculture University Rawalpindi, Rawalpindi, 46300, PakistanPir Mehr Ali Shah Arid Agriculture UniversityRawalpindiPakistan
| | - Waseem Ahmed
- Herpetology Lab, Department of Wildlife Management, Pir Mehr Ali Shah Arid Agriculture University Rawalpindi, Rawalpindi, 46300, PakistanPir Mehr Ali Shah Arid Agriculture UniversityRawalpindiPakistan
| | - Anum Sajjad
- Department of Environmental Sciences, International Islamic University, Islamabad, PakistanInternational Islamic UniversityIslamabadPakistan
| | - Ayesha Akram
- Herpetology Lab, Department of Wildlife Management, Pir Mehr Ali Shah Arid Agriculture University Rawalpindi, Rawalpindi, 46300, PakistanPir Mehr Ali Shah Arid Agriculture UniversityRawalpindiPakistan
| | - Muhammad Saeed
- Herpetology Lab, Department of Wildlife Management, Pir Mehr Ali Shah Arid Agriculture University Rawalpindi, Rawalpindi, 46300, PakistanPir Mehr Ali Shah Arid Agriculture UniversityRawalpindiPakistan
| | - Hannan Nasib Hamid
- Herpetology Lab, Department of Wildlife Management, Pir Mehr Ali Shah Arid Agriculture University Rawalpindi, Rawalpindi, 46300, PakistanPir Mehr Ali Shah Arid Agriculture UniversityRawalpindiPakistan
| | - Aamina Abid
- Herpetology Lab, Department of Wildlife Management, Pir Mehr Ali Shah Arid Agriculture University Rawalpindi, Rawalpindi, 46300, PakistanPir Mehr Ali Shah Arid Agriculture UniversityRawalpindiPakistan
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6
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Sweeny AR, Albery GF, Becker DJ, Eskew EA, Carlson CJ. Synzootics. J Anim Ecol 2021; 90:2744-2754. [PMID: 34546566 DOI: 10.1111/1365-2656.13595] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2020] [Accepted: 09/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Ecologists increasingly recognise coinfection as an important component of emergent epidemiological patterns, connecting aspects of ecoimmunology, behaviour, ecosystem function and even extinction risk. Building on syndemic theory in medical anthropology, we propose the term 'synzootics' to describe co-occurring enzootic or epizootic processes that produce worse health outcomes in wild animals. Using framing from syndemic theory, we describe how the synzootic concept offers new insights into the ecology and evolution of infectious diseases. We then recommend a set of empirical criteria and lines of evidence that can be used to identify synzootics in nature. We conclude by exploring how synzootics could indirectly drive the emergence of novel pathogens in human populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amy R Sweeny
- Institute of Evolutionary Biology, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Gregory F Albery
- Department of Biology, Georgetown University, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
| | - Daniel J Becker
- Department of Biology, University of Oklahoma, Norman, Oklahoma, USA
| | - Evan A Eskew
- Department of Biology, Pacific Lutheran University, Tacoma, Washington, USA
| | - Colin J Carlson
- Center for Global Health Science and Security, Georgetown University Medical Center, Georgetown University, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
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7
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Fouilloux CA, Serrano Rojas SJ, Carvajal‐Castro JD, Valkonen JK, Gaucher P, Fischer M, Pašukonis A, Rojas B. Pool choice in a vertical landscape: Tadpole-rearing site flexibility in phytotelm-breeding frogs. Ecol Evol 2021; 11:9021-9038. [PMID: 34257942 PMCID: PMC8258215 DOI: 10.1002/ece3.7741] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2021] [Revised: 05/06/2021] [Accepted: 05/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Many species of Neotropical frogs have evolved to deposit their tadpoles in small water bodies inside plant structures called phytotelmata. These pools are small enough to exclude large predators but have limited nutrients and high desiccation risk. Here, we explore phytotelm use by three common Neotropical species: Osteocephalus oophagus, an arboreal frog that periodically feeds eggs to its tadpoles; Dendrobates tinctorius, a tadpole-transporting poison frog with cannibalistic tadpoles; and Allobates femoralis, a terrestrial tadpole-transporting poison frog with omnivorous tadpoles. We found that D. tinctorius occupies pools across the chemical and vertical gradient, whereas A. femoralis and O. oophagus appear to have narrower deposition options that are restricted primarily by pool height, water capacity, alkalinity, and salinity. Dendrobates tinctorius tadpoles are particularly flexible and can survive in a wide range of chemical, physical, and biological conditions, whereas O. oophagus seems to prefer small, clear pools and A. femoralis occupies medium-sized pools with abundant leaf litter and low salinity. Together, these results show the possible niche partitioning of phytotelmata among frogs and provide insight into stressors and resilience of phytotelm breeders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chloe A. Fouilloux
- Department of Biological and Environmental ScienceUniversity of JyväskyläJyväskyläFinland
| | | | - Juan David Carvajal‐Castro
- Instituto de Investigación de Recursos Biológicos Alexander von HumboldtBogotáColombia
- Department of Biological SciencesSt. John’s UniversityQueensNYUSA
| | - Janne K. Valkonen
- Department of Biological and Environmental ScienceUniversity of JyväskyläJyväskyläFinland
| | - Philippe Gaucher
- USR LEEISA—Laboratoire EcologieEvolution, Interactions des Systèmes AmazoniensCNRS‐GuyaneCayenneFrench Guiana
| | | | - Andrius Pašukonis
- Department of BiologyStanford UniversityStanfordCAUSA
- Centre d’Ecologie Fonctionelle et EvolutiveCNRSMontpellier Cedex 5France
| | - Bibiana Rojas
- Department of Biological and Environmental ScienceUniversity of JyväskyläJyväskyläFinland
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8
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Skrede I, Murat C, Hess J, Maurice S, Sønstebø JH, Kohler A, Barry-Etienne D, Eastwood D, Högberg N, Martin F, Kauserud H. Contrasting demographic histories revealed in two invasive populations of the dry rot fungus Serpula lacrymans. Mol Ecol 2021; 30:2772-2789. [PMID: 33955084 DOI: 10.1111/mec.15934] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2019] [Revised: 04/15/2021] [Accepted: 04/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Globalization and international trade have impacted organisms around the world leading to a considerable number of species establishing in new geographic areas. Many organisms have taken advantage of human-made environments, including buildings. One such species is the dry rot fungus Serpula lacrymans, which is the most aggressive wood-decay fungus in indoor environments in temperate regions. Using population genomic analyses of 36 full genome sequenced isolates, we demonstrated that European and Japanese isolates are highly divergent and the populations split 3000-19,000 generations ago, probably predating human influence. Approximately 250 generations ago, the European population went through a tight bottleneck, probably corresponding to the fungus colonization of the built environment in Europe. The demographic history of these populations, probably lead to low adaptive potential. Only two loci under selection were identified using a Fst outlier approach, and selective sweep analyses identified three loci with extended haplotype homozygosity. The selective sweep analyses found signals in genes possibly related to decay of various substrates in Japan and in genes involved DNA replication and protein modification in Europe. Our results suggest that the dry rot fungus independently established in indoor environments in Europe and Japan and that invasive species can potentially establish large populations in new habitats based on a few colonizing individuals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Inger Skrede
- Department of Biosciences, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Claude Murat
- INRAE, UMR Interactions Arbres/Microorganismes, Centre INRAE-GrandEst Lorraine, Université de Lorraine, Champenoux, France
| | - Jaqueline Hess
- Department of Biosciences, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway.,University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Sundy Maurice
- Department of Biosciences, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | | | - Annegret Kohler
- INRAE, UMR Interactions Arbres/Microorganismes, Centre INRAE-GrandEst Lorraine, Université de Lorraine, Champenoux, France
| | | | - Dan Eastwood
- Department of Biosciences, University of Swansea, Swansea, UK
| | - Nils Högberg
- Department of Forest Mycology and Plant Pathology, Swedish Agricultural University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Francis Martin
- INRAE, UMR Interactions Arbres/Microorganismes, Centre INRAE-GrandEst Lorraine, Université de Lorraine, Champenoux, France.,Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Tree Breeding by Molecular Design, Institute of Microbiology, Beijing Forestry University, Beijing, China
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9
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Diaz L, Hernandez-Gomez O, Unger SD, Williams LA, Bodinof Jachowski CM. Prevalence of Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis in immature eastern hellbenders Cryptobranchus alleganiensis from North Carolina, USA. DISEASES OF AQUATIC ORGANISMS 2020; 140:73-78. [PMID: 32672152 DOI: 10.3354/dao03493] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis (Bd) has been detected in wild hellbender Cryptobranchus alleganiensis populations, with rare instances of chytridiomycosis and Bd-induced mortality. To date, Bd surveillance in hellbender populations has been disproportionately focused on adult age classes. A lingering question is whether Bd might contribute to hellbender declines through disproportionate negative effects on immature age classes. The objective of this study was to quantify Bd prevalence and load in immature hellbenders in western North Carolina, USA. We conducted field surveys during 2018 and 2019 and collected 88 skin swabs from 84 hellbenders spanning 3 age classes. Bd was detected on 11% of individuals, including 8 larvae and 1 juvenile. We did not detect symptoms of chytridiomycosis or a decline in body condition in Bd-positive hellbenders. Load varied from approximately 1-153 zoospore equivalents for the 9 Bd-positive hellbenders and was not associated with size class of the individual. While hellbenders appeared to be abundant in each survey reach, more work is needed to determine whether Bd may increase the vulnerability of immature hellbenders to anthropogenic stressors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauren Diaz
- Clemson University, Dept. of Forestry and Environmental Conservation, Clemson, SC 29634, USA
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10
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Fuller NW, McGuire LP, Pannkuk EL, Blute T, Haase CG, Mayberry HW, Risch TS, Willis CKR. Disease recovery in bats affected by white-nose syndrome. J Exp Biol 2020; 223:jeb211912. [PMID: 32054681 DOI: 10.1242/jeb.211912] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2019] [Accepted: 02/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Processes associated with recovery of survivors are understudied components of wildlife infectious diseases. White-nose syndrome (WNS) in bats provides an opportunity to study recovery of disease survivors, understand implications of recovery for individual energetics, and assess the role of survivors in pathogen transmission. We documented temporal patterns of recovery from WNS in little brown bats (Myotis lucifugus) following hibernation to test the hypotheses that: (1) recovery of wing structure from WNS matches a rapid time scale (i.e. approximately 30 days) suggested by data from free-ranging bats; (2) torpor expression plays a role in recovery; (3) wing physiological function returns to normal alongside structural recovery; and (4) pathogen loads decline quickly during recovery. We collected naturally infected bats at the end of hibernation, brought them into captivity, and quantified recovery over 40 days by monitoring body mass, wing damage, thermoregulation, histopathology of wing biopsies, skin surface lipids and fungal load. Most metrics returned to normal within 30 days, although wing damage was still detectable at the end of the study. Torpor expression declined overall throughout the study, but bats expressed relatively shallow torpor bouts - with a plateau in minimum skin temperature - during intensive healing between approximately days 8 and 15. Pathogen loads were nearly undetectable after the first week of the study, but some bats were still detectably infected at day 40. Our results suggest that healing bats face a severe energetic imbalance during early recovery from direct costs of healing and reduced foraging efficiency. Management of WNS should not rely solely on actions during winter, but should also aim to support energy balance of recovering bats during spring and summer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nathan W Fuller
- Department of Biological Sciences, Texas Tech University, 2901 Main Street, Lubbock, TX 79409, USA
| | - Liam P McGuire
- Department of Biological Sciences, Texas Tech University, 2901 Main Street, Lubbock, TX 79409, USA
| | - Evan L Pannkuk
- Department of Oncology, Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, Georgetown University Medical Center, 3970 Reservoir Road NW, Washington, DC 20057, USA
| | - Todd Blute
- Department of Biology, Boston University, 5 Cummington Mall, Boston, MA 02215, USA
| | - Catherine G Haase
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Montana State University, Bozeman, MT 59717, USA
| | - Heather W Mayberry
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of Toronto Mississauga, 3359 Mississauga Road, Mississauga, ON, Canada L5L 1C6
| | - Thomas S Risch
- Arkansas Biosciences Institute, Arkansas State University, P.O. Box 847, Jonesboro, AR 72467, USA
| | - Craig K R Willis
- Department of Biology and Centre for Forest Inter-Disciplinary Research (C-FIR), University of Winnipeg, 515 Portage Avenue, Winnipeg, MB, Canada R3B 2E9
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11
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Talbott K, Wolf TM, Sebastian P, Abraham M, Bueno I, McLaughlin M, Harris T, Thompson R, Pessier AP, Travis D. Factors influencing detection and co-detection of Ranavirus and Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis in Midwestern North American anuran populations. DISEASES OF AQUATIC ORGANISMS 2018; 128:93-103. [PMID: 29733024 DOI: 10.3354/dao03217] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Amphibian populations are in decline worldwide as they face a barrage of challenges, including infectious diseases caused by ranaviruses and the amphibian chytrid fungus Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis (Bd). Here we describe seasonal dynamics of Bd and ranavirus detection in free-ranging post-metamorphic wood frogs Lithobates sylvaticus, boreal chorus frogs Pseudacris maculata/triseriata, and gray treefrogs Hyla versicolor/chrysoscelis, sampled over a 3 season gradient in Minnesota (USA) wetlands. We detected Bd in 36% (n = 259) of individuals sampled in 3 wetlands in 2014, and 33% (n = 255) of individuals sampled in 8 wetlands in 2015. We also detected ranavirus in 60% and 18% of individuals sampled in 2014 and 2015, respectively. Ranavirus and Bd were detected concurrently in 26% and 2% of animals sampled in 2014 and 2015, respectively. We report clinical signs and associated infection status of sampled frogs; of the clinical signs observed, skin discoloration was significantly associated with ranavirus infection. Using generalized estimating equations, we found that species, season, wetland, and a species × season interaction term were significant predictors of Bd detection, whereas test year approached significance as a predictor of ranavirus detection. The odds of detecting both pathogens concurrently was significantly influenced by species, season, a species × season interaction term, year, and environmental ammonia. We propose an amphibian health monitoring scheme that couples population size surveys with seasonal molecular surveys of pathogen presence. This information is crucial to monitoring the health of remaining strongholds of healthy amphibian populations, as they face an uncertain future of further anthropogenic change.
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12
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Drivers of salamander extirpation mediated by Batrachochytrium salamandrivorans. Nature 2017; 544:353-356. [PMID: 28425998 DOI: 10.1038/nature22059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 142] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2017] [Accepted: 03/13/2017] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
The recent arrival of Batrachochytrium salamandrivorans in Europe was followed by rapid expansion of its geographical distribution and host range, confirming the unprecedented threat that this chytrid fungus poses to western Palaearctic amphibians. Mitigating this hazard requires a thorough understanding of the pathogen's disease ecology that is driving the extinction process. Here, we monitored infection, disease and host population dynamics in a Belgian fire salamander (Salamandra salamandra) population for two years immediately after the first signs of infection. We show that arrival of this chytrid is associated with rapid population collapse without any sign of recovery, largely due to lack of increased resistance in the surviving salamanders and a demographic shift that prevents compensation for mortality. The pathogen adopts a dual transmission strategy, with environmentally resistant non-motile spores in addition to the motile spores identified in its sister species B. dendrobatidis. The fungus retains its virulence not only in water and soil, but also in anurans and less susceptible urodelan species that function as infection reservoirs. The combined characteristics of the disease ecology suggest that further expansion of this fungus will behave as a 'perfect storm' that is able to rapidly extirpate highly susceptible salamander populations across Europe.
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13
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The Emerging Amphibian Fungal Disease, Chytridiomycosis: A Key Example of the Global Phenomenon of Wildlife Emerging Infectious Diseases. Microbiol Spectr 2017; 4. [PMID: 27337484 DOI: 10.1128/microbiolspec.ei10-0004-2015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The spread of amphibian chytrid fungus, Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis, is associated with the emerging infectious wildlife disease chytridiomycosis. This fungus poses an overwhelming threat to global amphibian biodiversity and is contributing toward population declines and extinctions worldwide. Extremely low host-species specificity potentially threatens thousands of the 7,000+ amphibian species with infection, and hosts in additional classes of organisms have now also been identified, including crayfish and nematode worms.Soon after the discovery of B. dendrobatidis in 1999, it became apparent that this pathogen was already pandemic; dozens of countries and hundreds of amphibian species had already been exposed. The timeline of B. dendrobatidis's global emergence still remains a mystery, as does its point of origin. The reason why B. dendrobatidis seems to have only recently increased in virulence to catalyze this global disease event remains unknown, and despite 15 years of investigation, this wildlife pandemic continues primarily uncontrolled. Some disease treatments are effective on animals held in captivity, but there is currently no proven method to eradicate B. dendrobatidis from an affected habitat, nor have we been able to protect new regions from exposure despite knowledge of an approaching "wave" of B. dendrobatidis and ensuing disease.International spread of B. dendrobatidis is largely facilitated by the commercial trade in live amphibians. Chytridiomycosis was recently listed as a globally notifiable disease by the World Organization for Animal Health, but few countries, if any, have formally adopted recommended measures to control its spread. Wildlife diseases continue to emerge as a consequence of globalization, and greater effort is urgently needed to protect global health.
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14
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Pollack L, Ondrasek NR, Calisi R. Urban health and ecology: the promise of an avian biomonitoring tool. Curr Zool 2017; 63:205-212. [PMID: 29491978 PMCID: PMC5804165 DOI: 10.1093/cz/zox011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2016] [Accepted: 02/07/2017] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Urban-dwelling birds have the potential to serve as powerful biomonitors that reveal the impact of environmental change due to urbanization. Specifically, urban bird populations can be used to survey cities for factors that may pose both public and wildlife health concerns. Here, we review evidence supporting the use of avian biomonitors to identify threats associated with urbanization, including bioaccumulation of toxicants and the dysregulation of behavior and physiology by related stressors. In addition, we consider the use of birds to examine how factors in the urban environment can impact immunity against communicable pathogens. By studying the behavior, physiology, and ecology of urban bird populations, we can elucidate not only how avian populations are responding to environmental change, but also how unintended consequences of urbanization affect the well-being of human and non-human inhabitants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lea Pollack
- Department of Environmental Science and Policy, University of California, Davis, CA 95616, USA
| | - Naomi R Ondrasek
- Department of Neurobiology, Physiology, and Behavior, University of California, Davis, CA 95616, USA
| | - Rebecca Calisi
- Department of Neurobiology, Physiology, and Behavior, University of California, Davis, CA 95616, USA
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15
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Wagner N, Neubeck C, Guicking D, Finke L, Wittich M, Weising K, Geske C, Veith M. No evidence for effects of infection with the amphibian chytrid fungus on populations of yellow-bellied toads. DISEASES OF AQUATIC ORGANISMS 2017; 123:55-65. [PMID: 28177293 DOI: 10.3354/dao03090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
The parasitic chytrid fungus Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis (Bd) can cause the lethal disease chytridiomycosis in amphibians and therefore may play a role in population declines. The yellow-bellied toad Bombina variegata suffered strong declines throughout western and northwestern parts of its range and is therefore listed as highly endangered for Germany and the federal state of Hesse. Whether chytridiomycosis may play a role in the observed local declines of this strictly protected anuran species has never been tested. We investigated 19 Hessian yellow-bellied toad populations for Bd infection rates, conducted capture-mark-recapture studies in 4 of them over 2 to 3 yr, examined survival histories of recaptured infected individuals, and tested whether multi-locus heterozygosity of individuals as well as expected heterozygosity and different environmental variables of populations affect probabilities of Bd infection. Our results show high prevalence of Bd infection in Hessian yellow-bellied toad populations, but although significant decreases in 2 populations could be observed, no causative link to Bd as the reason for this can be established. Mass mortalities or obvious signs of disease in individuals were not observed. Conversely, we show that growth of Bd-infected populations is possible under favorable habitat conditions and that most infected individuals could be recaptured with improved body indices. Neither genetic diversity nor environmental variables appeared to affect Bd infection probabilities. Hence, genetically diverse amphibian specimens and populations may not automatically be less susceptible for Bd infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Norman Wagner
- Trier University, Department of Biogeography, Universitätsring 15, 54296 Trier, Germany
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16
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Boersch‐Supan PH, Ryan SJ, Johnson LR. deBInfer: Bayesian inference for dynamical models of biological systems in
R. Methods Ecol Evol 2016. [DOI: 10.1111/2041-210x.12679] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Philipp H. Boersch‐Supan
- Department of Integrative Biology University of South Florida Tampa FL 33610 USA
- Emerging Pathogens Institute University of Florida Gainesville FL 32610 USA
- Department of Geography University of Florida Gainesville FL 32611 USA
| | - Sadie J. Ryan
- Emerging Pathogens Institute University of Florida Gainesville FL 32610 USA
- Department of Geography University of Florida Gainesville FL 32611 USA
| | - Leah R. Johnson
- Department of Integrative Biology University of South Florida Tampa FL 33610 USA
- Department of Statistics Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University Blacksburg VA 24061 USA
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17
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Abstract
Candida albicans is an important human fungal pathogen, in terms of both its clinical significance and its use as an experimental model for scientific investigation. Although this opportunistic pathogen is a natural component of the human flora, it can cause life-threatening infections in immunosuppressed patients. There are currently a limited number of antifungal molecules and drug targets, and increasing resistance to the front-line therapeutics, demonstrating a clear need for new antifungal drugs. Understanding the biology of this pathogen is an important prerequisite for identifying new drug targets for antifungal therapeutics. In this review, we highlight some recent developments that help us to understand how virulence traits are regulated at the molecular level, in addition to technical advances that improve the ability of genome editing in C. albicans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adnane Sellam
- Infectious Diseases Research Centre-CRI, CHU de Québec Research Center (CHUQ), Université Laval, Quebec City, Quebec, Canada; Department of Microbiology, Infectious Disease and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Université Laval, Quebec City, Quebec, Canada
| | - Malcolm Whiteway
- Department of Biology, Concordia University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
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18
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Last LA, Fenton H, Gonyor-McGuire J, Moore M, Yabsley MJ. Snake fungal disease caused by Ophidiomyces ophiodiicola in a free-ranging mud snake (Farancia abacura). J Vet Diagn Invest 2016; 28:709-713. [DOI: 10.1177/1040638716663250] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Snake fungal disease is an emerging infectious disease caused by the fungus Ophidiomyces ophiodiicola leading to severe dermatitis and facial disfiguration in numerous free-ranging and captive snakes. A free-ranging mud snake ( Farancia abacura) from Bulloch County, Georgia, was presented for autopsy because of facial swelling and emaciation. Extensive ulceration of the skin, which was especially severe on the head, and retained shed were noted on external examination. Microscopic examination revealed severe heterophilic dermatitis with intralesional fungal hyphae and arthroconidia consistent with O. ophiodiicola. A skin sample incubated on Sabouraud dextrose agar yielded a white-to-tan powdery fungal culture that was confirmed to be O. ophiodiicola by polymerase chain reaction and sequence analysis. Heavy infestation with adult tapeworms ( Ophiotaenia faranciae) was present within the intestine. Various bacterial and fungal species, interpreted to either be secondary invaders or postmortem contaminants, were associated with oral lesions. Although the role of these other organisms in the overall health of this individual is not known, factors such as concurrent infections or immunosuppression should be considered in order to better understand the overall manifestation of snake fungal disease, which remains poorly characterized in its host range and geographic distribution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa A. Last
- Southeastern Cooperative Wildlife Disease Study, College of Veterinary Medicine (Last, Fenton, Yabsley), University of Georgia, Athens, GA
- Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources (Yabsley), University of Georgia, Athens, GA
- Georgia Department of Natural Resources, Thomasville, GA (McGuire)
- The Orianne Society, Athens, GA (Moore)
| | - Heather Fenton
- Southeastern Cooperative Wildlife Disease Study, College of Veterinary Medicine (Last, Fenton, Yabsley), University of Georgia, Athens, GA
- Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources (Yabsley), University of Georgia, Athens, GA
- Georgia Department of Natural Resources, Thomasville, GA (McGuire)
- The Orianne Society, Athens, GA (Moore)
| | - Jessica Gonyor-McGuire
- Southeastern Cooperative Wildlife Disease Study, College of Veterinary Medicine (Last, Fenton, Yabsley), University of Georgia, Athens, GA
- Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources (Yabsley), University of Georgia, Athens, GA
- Georgia Department of Natural Resources, Thomasville, GA (McGuire)
- The Orianne Society, Athens, GA (Moore)
| | - Matthew Moore
- Southeastern Cooperative Wildlife Disease Study, College of Veterinary Medicine (Last, Fenton, Yabsley), University of Georgia, Athens, GA
- Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources (Yabsley), University of Georgia, Athens, GA
- Georgia Department of Natural Resources, Thomasville, GA (McGuire)
- The Orianne Society, Athens, GA (Moore)
| | - Michael J. Yabsley
- Southeastern Cooperative Wildlife Disease Study, College of Veterinary Medicine (Last, Fenton, Yabsley), University of Georgia, Athens, GA
- Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources (Yabsley), University of Georgia, Athens, GA
- Georgia Department of Natural Resources, Thomasville, GA (McGuire)
- The Orianne Society, Athens, GA (Moore)
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19
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Affiliation(s)
- Jenifer B. Walke
- Department of Biological Sciences, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, Virginia, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| | - Lisa K. Belden
- Department of Biological Sciences, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, Virginia, United States of America
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20
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Fuller K, Dunlap J, Loros J. Fungal Light Sensing at the Bench and Beyond. ADVANCES IN GENETICS 2016; 96:1-51. [DOI: 10.1016/bs.adgen.2016.08.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
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21
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Abstract
Little is known about the ecology of many of the parasites and pathogens affecting bats, but host social behavior almost certainly plays an important role in bat-parasite dynamics. Understanding parasite dynamics for bats is important from a human public health perspective because of their role as natural reservoirs for recent high-profile emerging zoonotic pathogens (e.g. Ebola, Hendra) and from a bat conservation perspective because of the recent emergence of white-nose syndrome (WNS) in North America highlighting the potential population impacts of parasites and pathogens. Although some bat species are among the most gregarious of mammals, species vary widely in terms of their social behavior and this variation could influence pathogen transmission and impacts. Here, we review the literature on links between bat social behavior and parasite dynamics. Using standardized search terms in Web of Science, we identified articles that explicitly tested or discussed links between some aspect of bat sociality and parasite transmission or host population impacts. We identified social network analysis, epidemiological modeling, and interspecific comparative analyses as the most commonly used methods to quantify relationships between social behavior and parasite-risk in bats while WNS, Hendra virus, and arthropod ectoparasites were the most commonly studied host-parasite systems. We summarize known host-parasite relationships in these three systems and propose testable hypotheses that could improve our understanding of links between host sociality and parasite-dynamics in bats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jorge Ortega
- Escuela Nacional de Ciencias Biológicas, Instituto Politécnico Nacional, México City, Mexico
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22
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Seimon TA, Ayebare S, Sekisambu R, Muhindo E, Mitamba G, Greenbaum E, Menegon M, Pupin F, McAloose D, Ammazzalorso A, Meirte D, Lukwago W, Behangana M, Seimon A, Plumptre AJ. Assessing the Threat of Amphibian Chytrid Fungus in the Albertine Rift: Past, Present and Future. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0145841. [PMID: 26710251 PMCID: PMC4692535 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0145841] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2015] [Accepted: 12/09/2015] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis (Bd), the cause of chytridiomycosis, is a pathogenic fungus that is found worldwide and is a major contributor to amphibian declines and extinctions. We report results of a comprehensive effort to assess the distribution and threat of Bd in one of the Earth’s most important biodiversity hotspots, the Albertine Rift in central Africa. In herpetological surveys conducted between 2010 and 2014, 1018 skin swabs from 17 amphibian genera in 39 sites across the Albertine Rift were tested for Bd by PCR. Overall, 19.5% of amphibians tested positive from all sites combined. Skin tissue samples from 163 amphibians were examined histologically; of these two had superficial epidermal intracorneal fungal colonization and lesions consistent with the disease chytridiomycosis. One amphibian was found dead during the surveys, and all others encountered appeared healthy. We found no evidence for Bd-induced mortality events, a finding consistent with other studies. To gain a historical perspective about Bd in the Albertine Rift, skin swabs from 232 museum-archived amphibians collected as voucher specimens from 1925–1994 were tested for Bd. Of these, one sample was positive; an Itombwe River frog (Phrynobatrachus asper) collected in 1950 in the Itombwe highlands. This finding represents the earliest record of Bd in the Democratic Republic of Congo. We modeled the distribution of Bd in the Albertine Rift using MaxEnt software, and trained our model for improved predictability. Our model predicts that Bd is currently widespread across the Albertine Rift, with moderate habitat suitability extending into the lowlands. Under climatic modeling scenarios our model predicts that optimal habitat suitability of Bd will decrease causing a major range contraction of the fungus by 2080. Our baseline data and modeling predictions are important for comparative studies, especially if significant changes in amphibian health status or climactic conditions are encountered in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tracie A. Seimon
- Wildlife Conservation Society, Bronx, NY, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| | - Samuel Ayebare
- Wildlife Conservation Society, Bronx, NY, United States of America
| | - Robert Sekisambu
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Emmanuel Muhindo
- Wildlife Conservation Society, Bronx, NY, United States of America
| | - Guillain Mitamba
- Wildlife Conservation Society, Bronx, NY, United States of America
| | - Eli Greenbaum
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Texas at El Paso, El Paso, TX, United States of America
| | - Michele Menegon
- Tropical Biodiversity Section, MUSE, The Science Museum of Trento, Trento, Italy
| | - Fabio Pupin
- Tropical Biodiversity Section, MUSE, The Science Museum of Trento, Trento, Italy
| | - Denise McAloose
- Wildlife Conservation Society, Bronx, NY, United States of America
| | | | - Danny Meirte
- Department of African Biology, Royal Museum for Central Africa, Tervuren, Belgium
| | - Wilbur Lukwago
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Mathias Behangana
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Anton Seimon
- Wildlife Conservation Society, Bronx, NY, United States of America
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23
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Colombo BM, Scalvenzi T, Benlamara S, Pollet N. Microbiota and mucosal immunity in amphibians. Front Immunol 2015; 6:111. [PMID: 25821449 PMCID: PMC4358222 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2015.00111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 83] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2014] [Accepted: 02/26/2015] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
We know that animals live in a world dominated by bacteria. In the last 20 years, we have learned that microbes are essential regulators of mucosal immunity. Bacteria, archeas, and viruses influence different aspects of mucosal development and function. Yet, the literature mainly covers findings obtained in mammals. In this review, we focus on two major themes that emerge from the comparative analysis of mammals and amphibians. These themes concern: (i) the structure and functions of lymphoid organs and immune cells in amphibians, with a focus on the gut mucosal immune system; and (ii) the characteristics of the amphibian microbiota and its influence on mucosal immunity. Lastly, we propose to use Xenopus tadpoles as an alternative small-animal model to improve the fundamental knowledge on immunological functions of gut microbiota.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bruno M Colombo
- Institute of Systems and Synthetic Biology, Université d'Evry Val d'Essonne , Evry , France
| | - Thibault Scalvenzi
- Institute of Systems and Synthetic Biology, Université d'Evry Val d'Essonne , Evry , France
| | - Sarah Benlamara
- Institute of Systems and Synthetic Biology, Université d'Evry Val d'Essonne , Evry , France
| | - Nicolas Pollet
- Institute of Systems and Synthetic Biology, CNRS , Evry , France ; Evolution, Genome, Comportement et Ecologie, CNRS, Université Paris-Sud, IRD , Gif-sur-Yvette , France
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24
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Affiliation(s)
- F. Javier Cabañes
- Veterinary Mycology Group, Department of Animal Health and Anatomy, Veterinary School, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra, Catalonia, Spain
- * E-mail:
| | - Deanna A. Sutton
- Department of Pathology, University of Texas Health Science Center, San Antonio, Texas, United States of America
| | - Josep Guarro
- Mycology Unit, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Institut d'Investigació Sanitària Pere Virgili, Universitat Rovira i Virgili, Reus, Catalonia, Spain
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25
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Chestnut T, Anderson C, Popa R, Blaustein AR, Voytek M, Olson DH, Kirshtein J. Heterogeneous occupancy and density estimates of the pathogenic fungus Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis in waters of North America. PLoS One 2014; 9:e106790. [PMID: 25222122 PMCID: PMC4164359 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0106790] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2014] [Accepted: 08/06/2014] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Biodiversity losses are occurring worldwide due to a combination of stressors. For example, by one estimate, 40% of amphibian species are vulnerable to extinction, and disease is one threat to amphibian populations. The emerging infectious disease chytridiomycosis, caused by the aquatic fungus Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis (Bd), is a contributor to amphibian declines worldwide. Bd research has focused on the dynamics of the pathogen in its amphibian hosts, with little emphasis on investigating the dynamics of free-living Bd. Therefore, we investigated patterns of Bd occupancy and density in amphibian habitats using occupancy models, powerful tools for estimating site occupancy and detection probability. Occupancy models have been used to investigate diseases where the focus was on pathogen occurrence in the host. We applied occupancy models to investigate free-living Bd in North American surface waters to determine Bd seasonality, relationships between Bd site occupancy and habitat attributes, and probability of detection from water samples as a function of the number of samples, sample volume, and water quality. We also report on the temporal patterns of Bd density from a 4-year case study of a Bd-positive wetland. We provide evidence that Bd occurs in the environment year-round. Bd exhibited temporal and spatial heterogeneity in density, but did not exhibit seasonality in occupancy. Bd was detected in all months, typically at less than 100 zoospores L(-1). The highest density observed was ∼3 million zoospores L(-1). We detected Bd in 47% of sites sampled, but estimated that Bd occupied 61% of sites, highlighting the importance of accounting for imperfect detection. When Bd was present, there was a 95% chance of detecting it with four samples of 600 ml of water or five samples of 60 mL. Our findings provide important baseline information to advance the study of Bd disease ecology, and advance our understanding of amphibian exposure to free-living Bd in aquatic habitats over time.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tara Chestnut
- Oregon State University, Environmental Science Graduate Program, Corvallis, Oregon, United States of America
- US Geological Survey, Oregon Water Science Center, Portland, Oregon, United States of America
| | - Chauncey Anderson
- US Geological Survey, Oregon Water Science Center, Portland, Oregon, United States of America
| | - Radu Popa
- Biological Sciences, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, United States of America
| | - Andrew R. Blaustein
- Oregon State University, Department of Integrative Biology, Corvallis, Oregon, United States of America
| | - Mary Voytek
- Astrobiology Program, National Aeronautics and Space Administration Headquarters, Washington DC, United States of America
| | - Deanna H. Olson
- US Forest Service, Pacific Northwest Research Station, Corvallis, Oregon, United States of America
| | - Julie Kirshtein
- US Geological Survey, National Research Program, Reston, Virginia, United States of America
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26
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Esvelt KM, Smidler AL, Catteruccia F, Church GM. Concerning RNA-guided gene drives for the alteration of wild populations. eLife 2014; 3:e03401. [PMID: 25035423 PMCID: PMC4117217 DOI: 10.7554/elife.03401] [Citation(s) in RCA: 449] [Impact Index Per Article: 44.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2014] [Accepted: 07/09/2014] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Gene drives may be capable of addressing ecological problems by altering entire populations of wild organisms, but their use has remained largely theoretical due to technical constraints. Here we consider the potential for RNA-guided gene drives based on the CRISPR nuclease Cas9 to serve as a general method for spreading altered traits through wild populations over many generations. We detail likely capabilities, discuss limitations, and provide novel precautionary strategies to control the spread of gene drives and reverse genomic changes. The ability to edit populations of sexual species would offer substantial benefits to humanity and the environment. For example, RNA-guided gene drives could potentially prevent the spread of disease, support agriculture by reversing pesticide and herbicide resistance in insects and weeds, and control damaging invasive species. However, the possibility of unwanted ecological effects and near-certainty of spread across political borders demand careful assessment of each potential application. We call for thoughtful, inclusive, and well-informed public discussions to explore the responsible use of this currently theoretical technology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin M Esvelt
- Synthetic Biology
Platform, Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired
Engineering, Harvard Medical School, Boston, United
States
| | - Andrea L Smidler
- Synthetic Biology
Platform, Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired
Engineering, Harvard Medical School, Boston, United
States; Department of Immunology and
Infectious Diseases, Harvard School of Public
Health, Boston, United States
| | - Flaminia Catteruccia
- Department of Immunology and Infectious
Diseases, Harvard School of Public
Health, Boston, United States;
Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale e Scienze
Biochimiche, Università degli Studi di
Perugia, Terni, Italy
| | - George M Church
- Synthetic Biology
Platform, Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired
Engineering, Harvard Medical School, Boston, United
States
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27
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Williams DL. Introduction–Welfare Issues Concerning Exotic Pet Medicine. J Exot Pet Med 2014. [DOI: 10.1053/j.jepm.2014.05.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
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28
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Williams DL, Cert C. WITHDRAWN: Editorial - welfare Issues concerning exotic pet medicine. J Exot Pet Med 2014. [DOI: 10.1053/j.jepm.2014.06.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
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29
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Will the damage be done before we feel the heat? Infectious disease emergence and human response. Anim Health Res Rev 2013; 14:127-32. [PMID: 24152741 DOI: 10.1017/s1466252313000108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
The global political economy is facing extreme challenges against a backdrop of large-scale expansion of human and domestic animal populations and related impacts on the biosphere. Significant global socio-ecological changes have occurred in the period of a single lifetime, driven by increased technology and access to physical and biological resources through open markets and globalization. Current resource consumption rates are not sustainable and ecological tipping points are being reached and one of the indicators of these may be a changing balance between hosts and pathogens. A period of extraordinary progress in reducing infection risk and disease impact on humans and domestic animals in the 20th Century is reversing in the 21st, but not always and not everywhere. Drivers for this shift are discussed in terms of demographics, agroecology, biodiversity decline and loss of resilience in ecosystems, climate change and increasing interconnectedness between species globally. Causality of disease emergence remains highly speculative, but patterns and data are emerging to commend a precautionary approach, while reassessing our global political, social and economic systems.
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30
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Saunders CW, Scheynius A, Heitman J. Malassezia fungi are specialized to live on skin and associated with dandruff, eczema, and other skin diseases. PLoS Pathog 2012; 8:e1002701. [PMID: 22737067 PMCID: PMC3380954 DOI: 10.1371/journal.ppat.1002701] [Citation(s) in RCA: 129] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Charles W Saunders
- Procter and Gamble Beauty Science, Miami Valley Innovation Center, Cincinnati, Ohio, United States of America.
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31
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Britton JR, Pegg J, Williams CF. Pathological and ecological host consequences of infection by an introduced fish parasite. PLoS One 2011; 6:e26365. [PMID: 22022606 PMCID: PMC3195689 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0026365] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2011] [Accepted: 09/25/2011] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The infection consequences of the introduced cestode fish parasite Bothriocephalus acheilognathi were studied in a cohort of wild, young-of-the-year common carp Cyprinus carpio that lacked co-evolution with the parasite. Within the cohort, parasite prevalence was 42% and parasite burdens were up to 12% body weight. Pathological changes within the intestinal tract of parasitized carp included distension of the gut wall, epithelial compression and degeneration, pressure necrosis and varied inflammatory changes. These were most pronounced in regions containing the largest proportion of mature proglottids. Although the body lengths of parasitized and non-parasitized fish were not significantly different, parasitized fish were of lower body condition and reduced weight compared to non-parasitized conspecifics. Stable isotope analysis (δ15N and δ13C) revealed trophic impacts associated with infection, particularly for δ15N where values for parasitized fish were significantly reduced as their parasite burden increased. In a controlled aquarium environment where the fish were fed ad libitum on an identical food source, there was no significant difference in values of δ15N and δ13C between parasitized and non-parasitized fish. The growth consequences remained, however, with parasitized fish growing significantly slower than non-parasitized fish, with their feeding rate (items s−1) also significantly lower. Thus, infection by an introduced parasite had multiple pathological, ecological and trophic impacts on a host with no experience of the parasite.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Robert Britton
- Centre for Conservation Ecology and Environmental Change, School of Applied Sciences, Bournemouth University, Poole, Dorset, United Kingdom.
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32
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Kinney VC, Heemeyer JL, Pessier AP, Lannoo MJ. Seasonal pattern of Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis infection and mortality in Lithobates areolatus: affirmation of Vredenburg's "10,000 zoospore rule". PLoS One 2011; 6:e16708. [PMID: 21423745 PMCID: PMC3053364 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0016708] [Citation(s) in RCA: 91] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2010] [Accepted: 01/12/2011] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
To fully comprehend chytridiomycosis, the amphibian disease caused by the chytrid fungus Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis (Bd), it is essential to understand how Bd affects amphibians throughout their remarkable range of life histories. Crawfish Frogs (Lithobates areolatus) are a typical North American pond-breeding species that forms explosive spring breeding aggregations in seasonal and semipermanent wetlands. But unlike most species, when not breeding Crawfish Frogs usually live singly--in nearly total isolation from conspecifics--and obligately in burrows dug by crayfish. Crayfish burrows penetrate the water table, and therefore offer Crawfish Frogs a second, permanent aquatic habitat when not breeding. Over the course of two years we sampled for the presence of Bd in Crawfish Frog adults. Sampling was conducted seasonally, as animals moved from post-winter emergence through breeding migrations, then back into upland burrow habitats. During our study, 53% of Crawfish Frog breeding adults tested positive for Bd in at least one sample; 27% entered breeding wetlands Bd positive; 46% exited wetlands Bd positive. Five emigrating Crawfish Frogs (12%) developed chytridiomycosis and died. In contrast, all 25 adult frogs sampled while occupying upland crayfish burrows during the summer tested Bd negative. One percent of postmetamorphic juveniles sampled were Bd positive. Zoospore equivalents/swab ranged from 0.8 to 24,436; five out of eight frogs with zoospore equivalents near or >10,000 are known to have died. In summary, Bd infection rates in Crawfish Frog populations ratchet up from near zero during the summer to over 25% following overwintering; rates then nearly double again during and just after breeding--when mortality occurs--before the infection wanes during the summer. Bd-negative postmetamorphic juveniles may not be exposed again to this pathogen until they take up residence in crayfish burrows, or until their first breeding, some years later.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vanessa C. Kinney
- Department of Biology, Indiana State University, Terre Haute, Indiana, United States of America
| | - Jennifer L. Heemeyer
- Department of Biology, Indiana State University, Terre Haute, Indiana, United States of America
| | - Allan P. Pessier
- Wildlife Disease Laboratories, San Diego Zoo Institute for Conservation Research, San Diego, California, United States of America
| | - Michael J. Lannoo
- Terre Haute Center for Medical Education, Indiana University School of Medicine, Terre Haute, Indiana, United States of America
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33
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Schmeller DS, Loyau A, Dejean T, Miaud C. Using amphibians in laboratory studies: precautions against the emerging infectious disease chytridiomycosis. Lab Anim 2010; 45:25-30. [PMID: 21075827 DOI: 10.1258/la.2010.010101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
The African clawed frog Xenopus laevis is by far the most widely used amphibian species in laboratories. In the wild, X. laevis is an asymptomatic carrier of an emerging infectious disease called chytridiomycosis. The vector is the chytrid fungus Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis (Bd), which has devastating effects on wild amphibian populations around the world. The impact of Bd on the metabolism of X. laevis has not been comprehended yet. However, even if asymptomatic, an infection is likely to affect the individual's physiology, immunology, development, reproduction and overall response to stress from a purely medical point of view, which will introduce noise and therefore increase variance within experimental groups of X. laevis. This could have implications on the scientific results from studies using this species. Here, we review the current knowledge on treatments of infected amphibians and propose a hygiene protocol adapted to laboratory populations and amphibian husbandry. Following the presented sanitation guidelines could further prevent the spread of Bd and probably of other amphibian pathogens. The sanitation guidelines will help to reduce the impact of amphibian husbandry on natural populations and must be considered a crucial contribution to amphibian conservation, as today 32% of all amphibians are considered threatened.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dirk S Schmeller
- Station d'Ecologie Expérimentale du CNRS à Moulis, USR 2936, 09200 Saint Girons, France.
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34
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Cryan PM, Meteyer CU, Boyles JG, Blehert DS. Wing pathology of white-nose syndrome in bats suggests life-threatening disruption of physiology. BMC Biol 2010; 8:135. [PMID: 21070683 PMCID: PMC2984388 DOI: 10.1186/1741-7007-8-135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 190] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2010] [Accepted: 11/03/2010] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
White-nose syndrome (WNS) is causing unprecedented declines in several species of North American bats. The characteristic lesions of WNS are caused by the fungus Geomyces destructans, which erodes and replaces the living skin of bats while they hibernate. It is unknown how this infection kills the bats. We review here the unique physiological importance of wings to hibernating bats in relation to the damage caused by G. destructans and propose that mortality is caused by catastrophic disruption of wing-dependent physiological functions. Mechanisms of disease associated with G. destructans seem specific to hibernating bats and are most analogous to disease caused by chytrid fungus in amphibians.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul M Cryan
- United States Geological Survey, Fort Collins Science Center, Fort Collins, CO 80526, USA
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Wollenberg KC, Jenkins RKB, Randrianavelona R, Ralisata M, Rampilamanana R, Ramanandraibe A, Ravoahangimalala OR, Vences M. Raising awareness of amphibian Chytridiomycosis will not alienate ecotourists visiting Madagascar. ECOHEALTH 2010; 7:248-251. [PMID: 20517634 DOI: 10.1007/s10393-010-0313-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2009] [Revised: 03/30/2010] [Accepted: 04/06/2010] [Indexed: 05/29/2023]
Abstract
Chytridiomycosis (Bd) is contributing to amphibian extinctions worldwide but has so far not been detected in Madagascar. The high likelihood for Bd to spread to the island and efface this amphibian diversity and endemism hotspot requires respective conservation policies to be developed. Bd could be introduced by the large number of tourists that visit protected areas; therefore, increasing awareness among tourists and encouraging them to participate in safety measures should be a priority conservation action. However, concerns have been raised that tourists would not be able to distinguish between an amphibian disease harmless to humans and emerging diseases that would imply a danger for human health, invoking a negative image of Madagascar as an ecotourism destination. We evaluated whether informing tourists about this infectious animal disease would cause health scare and diminish trip satisfaction. Based on 659 respondents we found that most ecotourists favored to be informed about Bd and were proactive about participating in prevention measures, refuting previous concerns.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katharina C Wollenberg
- Department of Organismic and Evolutionary Biology and Museum of Comparative Zoology, Harvard University, 26 Oxford St, Cambridge, MA 02138, USA.
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