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Johns JL, Baumgartner TR, Sanchez CR, Dolan BP. Phagocytic Function and Flow Cytometric Phenotype of Asian Elephant Monocytes. Animals (Basel) 2024; 14:2297. [PMID: 39199831 PMCID: PMC11350674 DOI: 10.3390/ani14162297] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2024] [Revised: 07/22/2024] [Accepted: 07/31/2024] [Indexed: 09/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Optimal veterinary care of managed elephant populations is vital due to the continued decline of wild populations. Appropriate health monitoring and accurate disease diagnosis include hematologic evaluation. Elephant hematology is distinctive in that elephants have high percentages of monocytes in health. Elephant monocytes also have unusual morphology, a feature shared with manatees and rock hyraxes. Manual white blood cell counting is used for elephant hematology, as analyzers are generally inaccurate. The aims of this study were to evaluate basic cell isolation and functional testing protocols for use in elephant monocyte research, and to test several available antibodies via flow cytometry for use in elephant monocyte identification. Peripheral blood samples from five Asian elephants (Elephas maximus) were used. Methods for monocyte isolation and evaluation of phagocytic function were established. Putative lymphocyte and monocyte populations were identified using a scatter on flow cytometry. Antibodies against CD11b, CD11c, CD14, and ionized calcium-binding adapter molecule 1 (IBA1) were tested, with IBA1 showing the highest apparent diagnostic utility in labeling monocytes. Combined flow cytometric scatter and IBA1 positivity appear to identify Asian elephant monocytes. These data provide a methodologic basis for further investigation into elephant monocyte function and immune response to infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer L. Johns
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Carlson College of Veterinary Medicine, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR 97331, USA; (T.R.B.); (B.P.D.)
| | - Trinity R. Baumgartner
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Carlson College of Veterinary Medicine, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR 97331, USA; (T.R.B.); (B.P.D.)
| | | | - Brian P. Dolan
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Carlson College of Veterinary Medicine, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR 97331, USA; (T.R.B.); (B.P.D.)
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2
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Ramanujam H, Palaniyandi K. Tuberculosis in wild animals in India. Vet Res Commun 2024; 48:2007-2027. [PMID: 38771446 DOI: 10.1007/s11259-024-10401-4] [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: 02/12/2024] [Accepted: 04/29/2024] [Indexed: 05/22/2024]
Abstract
India is renowned for its complex megadiverse ecosystems and abundant biodiversity. Bovine tuberculosis (bTB) often remains synonymous with Mycobacterium bovis infection in cattle. The domain of tuberculosis (TB) among wild animals, induced by members of the Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex organisms (MTBC), is often underexplored and underreported in India. Within this context, instances of wild animal tuberculosis (wTB) have manifested across both captive and free-roaming animals. The sources contributing to wTB in animals can be human, animal, or environmental factors, thus illuminating the complex transmission pathways. The diagnosis of wTB continues to pose a formidable challenge, a consequence of the expansive taxonomic diversity in both the host and the pathogen. Complications inherent in acquiring samples from wildlife, the absence of standardized diagnostic protocols, limited insights into infection prevalence, and resource constraints compound diagnosis. Amidst these, adopting the comprehensive One Health paradigm surfaces as an imperative, accentuating the interconnectedness bridging human, animal, and environmental health. Recognizing key stakeholders and fostering intersectoral collaboration to provide enhanced diagnostic techniques driven by skilled personnel and advanced infrastructure play pivotal roles in a comprehensive strategy. Additionally, leveraging vaccination efforts contributes to effective control. A national wTB surveillance program is a cornerstone, ensuring an integrated and holistic approach to disease management. Through this review, we delve into the current landscape of wTB in India, unveiling its multifaceted challenges, and further explore the multifarious strategies that the One Health approach proffers in this dynamic endeavor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Harini Ramanujam
- Department of Immunology, ICMR-National Institute for Research in Tuberculosis, #1, Mayor Sathiyamoorthy Road, Chennai, 600031, India
| | - Kannan Palaniyandi
- Department of Immunology, ICMR-National Institute for Research in Tuberculosis, #1, Mayor Sathiyamoorthy Road, Chennai, 600031, India.
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3
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Martin LC, O'Hare MA, Ghielmetti G, Twesigomwe D, Kerr TJ, Gumbo R, Buss PE, Kitchin N, Hemmings SMJ, Miller MA, Goosen WJ. Short-read full-length 16S rRNA amplicon sequencing for characterisation of the respiratory bacteriome of captive and free-ranging African elephants (Loxodonta africana). Sci Rep 2024; 14:14768. [PMID: 38926469 PMCID: PMC11208578 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-65841-4] [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: 11/30/2023] [Accepted: 06/24/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Hypervariable region sequencing of the 16S ribosomal RNA (rRNA) gene plays a critical role in microbial ecology by offering insights into bacterial communities within specific niches. While providing valuable genus-level information, its reliance on data from targeted genetic regions limits its overall utility. Recent advances in sequencing technologies have enabled characterisation of the full-length 16S rRNA gene, enhancing species-level classification. Although current short-read platforms are cost-effective and precise, they lack full-length 16S rRNA amplicon sequencing capability. This study aimed to evaluate the feasibility of a modified 150 bp paired-end full-length 16S rRNA amplicon short-read sequencing technique on the Illumina iSeq 100 and 16S rRNA amplicon assembly workflow by utilising a standard mock microbial community and subsequently performing exploratory characterisation of captive (zoo) and free-ranging African elephant (Loxodonta africana) respiratory microbiota. Our findings demonstrate that, despite generating assembled amplicons averaging 869 bp in length, this sequencing technique provides taxonomic assignments consistent with the theoretical composition of the mock community and respiratory microbiota of other mammals. Tentative bacterial signatures, potentially representing distinct respiratory tract compartments (trunk and lower respiratory tract) were visually identified, necessitating further investigation to gain deeper insights into their implication for elephant physiology and health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauren C Martin
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, PO Box 241, Cape Town, 8000, South Africa
- South African Medical Research Council/Stellenbosch University Genomics of Brain Disorders Unit, Cape Town, South Africa
- Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, PO Box 241, Cape Town, 8000, South Africa
| | - Michaela A O'Hare
- South African Medical Research Council/Stellenbosch University Genomics of Brain Disorders Unit, Cape Town, South Africa
- Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, PO Box 241, Cape Town, 8000, South Africa
| | - Giovanni Ghielmetti
- South African Medical Research Council Centre for Tuberculosis Research, Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, PO Box 241, Cape Town, 8000, South Africa
- Section of Veterinary Bacteriology, Institute for Food Safety and Hygiene, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstrasse 270, 8057, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - David Twesigomwe
- Sydney Brenner Institute for Molecular Bioscience, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
- Division of Human Genetics, National Health Laboratory Service, and School of Pathology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Tanya J Kerr
- South African Medical Research Council Centre for Tuberculosis Research, Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, PO Box 241, Cape Town, 8000, South Africa
| | - Rachiel Gumbo
- South African Medical Research Council Centre for Tuberculosis Research, Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, PO Box 241, Cape Town, 8000, South Africa
| | - Peter E Buss
- South African National Parks, Veterinary Wildlife Services, Kruger National Park, Skukuza, South Africa
| | - Natasha Kitchin
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, PO Box 241, Cape Town, 8000, South Africa
- South African Medical Research Council/Stellenbosch University Genomics of Brain Disorders Unit, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Sian M J Hemmings
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, PO Box 241, Cape Town, 8000, South Africa
- South African Medical Research Council/Stellenbosch University Genomics of Brain Disorders Unit, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Michele A Miller
- South African Medical Research Council Centre for Tuberculosis Research, Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, PO Box 241, Cape Town, 8000, South Africa
| | - Wynand J Goosen
- South African Medical Research Council Centre for Tuberculosis Research, Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, PO Box 241, Cape Town, 8000, South Africa.
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4
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Foggin CM, Rosen LE, Henton MM, Buys A, Floyd T, Turner AD, Tarbin J, Lloyd AS, Chaitezvi C, Ellis RJ, Roberts HC, Dastjerdi A, Nunez A, van Vliet AHM, Steinbach F. Pasteurella sp. associated with fatal septicaemia in six African elephants. Nat Commun 2023; 14:6398. [PMID: 37880229 PMCID: PMC10600241 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-41987-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2023] [Accepted: 09/25/2023] [Indexed: 10/27/2023] Open
Abstract
The sudden mortality of African elephants (Loxodonta africana) in Botswana and Zimbabwe in 2020 provoked considerable public interest and speculation. Poaching and malicious poisoning were excluded early on in the investigation. Other potential causes included environmental intoxication, infectious diseases, and increased habitat stress due to ongoing drought. Here we show evidence of the mortalities in Zimbabwe as fatal septicaemia associated with Bisgaard taxon 45, an unnamed close relative of Pasteurella multocida. We analyse elephant carcasses and environmental samples, and fail to find evidence of cyanobacterial or other intoxication. Post-mortem and histological findings suggest a bacterial septicaemia similar to haemorrhagic septicaemia caused by P. multocida. Biochemical tests and 16S rDNA analysis of six samples and genomic analysis of one sample confirm the presence of Bisgaard taxon 45. The genome sequence contains many of the canonical P. multocida virulence factors associated with a range of human and animal diseases, including the pmHAS gene for hyaluronidase associated with bovine haemorrhagic septicaemia. Our results demonstrate that Bisgaard taxon 45 is associated with a generalised, lethal infection and that African elephants are susceptible to opportunistically pathogenic Pasteurella species. This represents an important conservation concern for elephants in the largest remaining metapopulation of this endangered species.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Laura E Rosen
- Transboundary Epidemiology Analytics, LLC, Alpharetta, GA, USA.
- Victoria Falls Wildlife Trust, Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe.
| | | | - Angela Buys
- Design Biologix, Erasmusrand, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Toby Floyd
- Pathology and Animal Sciences Department, Animal and Plant Health Agency Weybridge, Addlestone, Surrey, KT15 3NB, UK
| | - Andrew D Turner
- Centre for Environment Fisheries and Aquaculture Science, The Nothe, Weymouth, Dorset, DT4 8UB, UK
| | | | | | | | - Richard J Ellis
- Surveillance and Laboratory Services Department, Animal and Plant Health Agency Weybridge, Addlestone, Surrey, KT15 3NB, UK
| | - Helen C Roberts
- Department for Environment Food & Rural Affairs, Nobel House, 17 Smith Square, London, SW1P 3JR, UK
| | - Akbar Dastjerdi
- Virology Department, Animal and Plant Health Agency Weybridge, Addlestone, Surrey, KT15 3NB, UK
| | - Alejandro Nunez
- Pathology and Animal Sciences Department, Animal and Plant Health Agency Weybridge, Addlestone, Surrey, KT15 3NB, UK
| | - Arnoud H M van Vliet
- Department of Comparative Biomedical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Surrey, Guildford, GU2 7AL, UK
| | - Falko Steinbach
- Virology Department, Animal and Plant Health Agency Weybridge, Addlestone, Surrey, KT15 3NB, UK
- Department of Comparative Biomedical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Surrey, Guildford, GU2 7AL, UK
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5
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Pongma C, Songthammanuphap S, Puthong S, Buakeaw A, Prammananan T, Warit S, Tipkantha W, Kaewkhunjob E, Jairak W, Kongmakee P, Pabutta C, Sripiboon S, Yindeeyoungyeon W, Palaga T. Using whole blood cultures in interferon gamma release assays to detect Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex infection in Asian elephants (Elephas maximus). PLoS One 2023; 18:e0288161. [PMID: 37498897 PMCID: PMC10374124 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0288161] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2023] [Accepted: 06/07/2023] [Indexed: 07/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Elephants are susceptible to Mycobacterium tuberculosis (M. tb) complex (MTBC) infections. Diagnosis of tuberculosis (TB) in elephants is difficult, and most approaches used for human TB diagnosis are not applicable. An interferon gamma release assay (IGRA) to diagnose TB in Asian elephants (Elephas maximus) using peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) has been previously developed. Although the assay is shown to be valid in determining MTBC infection status, the laborious PBMC isolation process makes it difficult to use. In this study, we simplified the method by using whole blood cultures (WC) as the starting material. Using PBMC cultures for IGRA, the MTBC infection status of 15 elephants was first confirmed. Among these animals, one has been previously confirmed for M. tb infection by both TB culture and PCR and the other was confirmed for MTBC infection in this study by droplet digital PCR (ddPCR) method. WC for IGRA consisted of an unstimulated sample, a mitogen stimulated sample, and sample stimulated with recombinant M. tb antigens, ESAT6 and CFP10. Using WC for IGRA in the 15 enrolled elephants, the results showed that 7 out of 15 samples yielded MTBC infection positive status that were completely concordant with those from the results using PBMCs. To test this method, WC for IGRA were applied in another elephant cohort of 9 elephants. The results from this cohort revealed a perfect match between the results from PBMC and WC. Responses to ESAT6 or CFP10 by PBMC and WC were not completely concordant, arguing for the use of at least two M. tb antigens for stimulation. Given the ease of sample handling, smaller blood sample volumes and equivalent efficacy relative to the PBMC approach, using WC for IGRA provides a novel, rapid, and user-friendly TB diagnostic method for determining the MTBC infection in elephants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chitsuda Pongma
- Graduate Program in Biotechnology, Faculty of Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
- Center of Excellence in Immunology and Immune-Mediated Diseases, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | | | - Songchan Puthong
- Institute of Biotechnology and Genetic Engineering, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Anumart Buakeaw
- Institute of Biotechnology and Genetic Engineering, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Therdsak Prammananan
- The National Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, National Science and Technology Development Agency (NSTDA), Pathum Thani, Thailand
| | - Saradee Warit
- The National Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, National Science and Technology Development Agency (NSTDA), Pathum Thani, Thailand
| | - Wanlaya Tipkantha
- Bureau of Conservation and Research, Zoological Park Organization of Thailand, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Erngsiri Kaewkhunjob
- Bureau of Conservation and Research, Zoological Park Organization of Thailand, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Waleemas Jairak
- Bureau of Conservation and Research, Zoological Park Organization of Thailand, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Piyaporn Kongmakee
- Bureau of Conservation and Research, Zoological Park Organization of Thailand, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Choenkwan Pabutta
- Elephant Kingdom Project, Zoological Park Organization of Thailand, Surin, Thailand
| | - Supaphen Sripiboon
- Department of Large Animals and Wildlife Clinical Science, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kasetsart University, Nakhon Pathom, Thailand
| | - Wandee Yindeeyoungyeon
- The National Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, National Science and Technology Development Agency (NSTDA), Pathum Thani, Thailand
| | - Tanapat Palaga
- Center of Excellence in Immunology and Immune-Mediated Diseases, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
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6
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Rajbhandari RM, de la Fuente J, Karmacharya D, Mathema S, Maharjan B, Dixit SM, Shrestha N, Queirós J, Gortázar C, Alves PC. Understanding Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex in elephants through a One Health approach: a systematic review. BMC Vet Res 2022; 18:262. [PMID: 35794608 PMCID: PMC9258206 DOI: 10.1186/s12917-022-03356-8] [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: 08/17/2020] [Accepted: 06/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex (MTC) that causes the chronic infectious disease- tuberculosis (TB), often presents with a complicated epidemiological pattern where the transmission chain may include humans, domestic animals and wildlife, including elephants. TB has been reported globally in both captive and wild elephants. The One Health approach might be the most effective way of understanding the shared MTC infection dynamics in captive and wild animals like Asian elephants. This systematic review accumulates evidence on occurrence, transmission pathways, and preventive measures of TB in elephants from a One Health perspective. Results The prevalence of TB reported in elephant populations ranges from 0 to 23.33% and high prevalence’s are reported for elephants that are in close proximity to infected humans. The risk of elephant to human infection transmission increased significantly with exposure duration and contact with infected elephants. Some studies described the plausible TB transmission to captive elephants from other animals (wild and domestic), suggesting inter- and intra-species transmission. The results of this systematic review based on 27 relevant published works, suggest three overarching interrelated transmission pathways for M. tuberculosis infections in Asian elephants- i) humans and elephants, ii) other animals (wild or domestic) and elephants and iii) unclear sources of infection. Conclusions The progress made with new TB diagnostic tools provides multiple methods to choose from. However, lack of harmonization of TB testing in elephants and their human contacts remains a challenge to prevent TB in those animals. Routine TB screening among elephants and caretakers by setting up an occupational health program for early diagnosis of infection through combined efforts of public health, veterinary medicine, and occupational health experts is suggested. This implies the need for a One Health approach to elephant TB control. This review reveals the need for more research on Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex transmission pathways at the human-animal interface.
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7
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Goosen WJ, Clarke C, Kleynhans L, Kerr TJ, Buss P, Miller MA. Culture-Independent PCR Detection and Differentiation of Mycobacteria spp. in Antemortem Respiratory Samples from African Elephants ( Loxodonta Africana) and Rhinoceros ( Ceratotherium Simum, Diceros Bicornis) in South Africa. Pathogens 2022; 11:709. [PMID: 35745564 PMCID: PMC9230505 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens11060709] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2022] [Revised: 06/17/2022] [Accepted: 06/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Since certain Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex (MTBC) members, such as M. bovis, are endemic in specific South African wildlife reserves and zoos, cases of clinically important nontuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) in wildlife may be neglected. Additionally, due to the inability of tests to differentiate between the host responses to MTBC and NTM, the diagnosis of MTBC may be confounded by the presence of NTMs. This may hinder control efforts. These constraints highlight the need for enhanced rapid detection and differentiation methods for MTBC and NTM, especially in high MTBC burden areas. We evaluated the use of the GeneXpert MTB/RIF Ultra, the Hain CMdirect V1.0 line probe assay, and novel amplicon sequencing PCRs targeting the mycobacterial rpoB and ku gene targets, directly on antemortem African elephant (n = 26) bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) (n = 22) and trunk washes (n = 21) and rhinoceros (n = 23) BALF (n = 23), with known MTBC culture-positive and NTM culture-positive results. Our findings suggest that the Ultra is the most sensitive diagnostic test for MTBC DNA detection directly in raw antemortem respiratory specimens and that the rpoB PCR is ideal for Mycobacterium genus DNA detection and species identification through amplicon sequencing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wynand J. Goosen
- DSI-NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research, South African Medical Research Council Centre for Tuberculosis Research, Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, P.O. Box 241, Cape Town 8000, South Africa; (C.C.); (L.K.); (T.J.K.); (M.A.M.)
| | - Charlene Clarke
- DSI-NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research, South African Medical Research Council Centre for Tuberculosis Research, Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, P.O. Box 241, Cape Town 8000, South Africa; (C.C.); (L.K.); (T.J.K.); (M.A.M.)
| | - Léanie Kleynhans
- DSI-NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research, South African Medical Research Council Centre for Tuberculosis Research, Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, P.O. Box 241, Cape Town 8000, South Africa; (C.C.); (L.K.); (T.J.K.); (M.A.M.)
| | - Tanya J. Kerr
- DSI-NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research, South African Medical Research Council Centre for Tuberculosis Research, Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, P.O. Box 241, Cape Town 8000, South Africa; (C.C.); (L.K.); (T.J.K.); (M.A.M.)
| | - Peter Buss
- Veterinary Wildlife Services, Kruger National Park, South African National Parks, Skukuza 1350, South Africa;
| | - Michele A. Miller
- DSI-NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research, South African Medical Research Council Centre for Tuberculosis Research, Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, P.O. Box 241, Cape Town 8000, South Africa; (C.C.); (L.K.); (T.J.K.); (M.A.M.)
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8
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Sanchez CR, Hidalgo-Hermoso E. Mycobacterium tuberculosis sensu stricto in African Apes, What Is Its True Health Impact? Pathogens 2022; 11:484. [PMID: 35631005 PMCID: PMC9145341 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens11050484] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2021] [Revised: 04/06/2022] [Accepted: 04/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Since the Symposium on Mycobacterial Infections of Zoo Animals held at the National Zoological Park, Smithsonian Institution in 1976, our understanding of tuberculosis (TB) in non-domestic animals has greatly expanded. Throughout the past decades, this knowledge has resulted in improved zoo-habitats and facilities design, stricter biosecurity measures, and advanced diagnostic methods, including molecular techniques, that have significantly decreased the number of clinical disease caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis in apes under human care settings. In the other hand, exponential growth of human populations has led to human encroachment in wildlife habitat which has resulted in increased inter-species contact and recurrent conflict between humans and wild animals. Although it is widely accepted that non-human primates are susceptible to M. tb infection, opinions differ with regard to the susceptibility to develop disease amongst different taxa. Specifically, some authors suggest that African apes are less susceptible to clinical tuberculosis than other species of primates. The aim of this review article is to evaluate the current scientific literature to determine the actual health impact of disease caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis and more specifically Mycobacterium tuberculosis sensu stricto in African apes. The literature review included literature databases: Web of Science, Pubmed, Scopus, Wiley, Springer and Science direct, without temporal limit and proceedings of annual conferences in the field of wildlife health. Our general inclusion criteria included information about serological, molecular, pathological (macroscopic and/or microscopic), and clinical evidence of TB in African apes; while our, our more stringent inclusion selection criteria required that in addition to a gross pathology, a molecular test confirmed Mycobacterium tuberculosis sensu stricto as the cause of disease or death. We identified eleven reports of tuberculosis in African apes; of those, only four reports met the more stringent selection criteria that confirmed M. tb sensu stricto in six individuals. All reports that confirmed M. tb sensu stricto originated from zoological collections. Our review suggests that there is little evidence of disease or mortality caused by M. tb in the different species of African apes both under human care and free ranging populations. Additional studies are needed in free-ranging, semi-captive populations (sanctuaries) and animals under human care (zoos and rescue centers) to definitely conclude that this mycobacteria has a limited health effect in African ape species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlos R. Sanchez
- Veterinary Medical Center, Oregon Zoo, Portland, 4001 SW Canyon Rd., Portland, OR 97221, USA
| | - Ezequiel Hidalgo-Hermoso
- Conservation and Research Department, Parque Zoologico Buin Zoo, Panamericana Sur Km 32, Buin 01730, Chile;
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9
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Angkwanish T, Vernooij HJCM, Sirimalaisuwan A, Charernpan P, Nielen M, Rutten VPMG. Prevalence and Demographic Risk Factors of Mycobacterium tuberculosis Infections in Captive Asian Elephants ( Elephas maximus) Based on Serological Assays. Front Vet Sci 2021; 8:713663. [PMID: 34859080 PMCID: PMC8630616 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2021.713663] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2021] [Accepted: 10/06/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
To address putative TB statuses of elephants and to identify and quantify potential demographic risk factors for TB, three ELISAs specific for different mycobacterial antigens (ESAT6, CFP10, MPB83) and the TB Stat-Pak assay were used as surrogate serological markers for TB infection in elephants. In view of the low number of animals of which the infected status could be confirmed (4 out of 708) Latent Class Analyses of TB serology test outcomes was used to predict the putative TB status of each of 708 elephants as positive (17.3%), inconclusive (48.7%), or negative (34%) when assessed on a population basis. Correlation between test performance of the individual assays was high between the ELISAs, but low with that of the TB Stat-Pak assay. Risk factors, assessed based on cut off values for each of the ELISAs determined by ROC analysis, included sex, BCS, age, working time, feed type, management system, camp size and region. Old age elephants were more likely to show a positive TB serology test outcome, than younger ones. Elephants working 7 h per day and the ones in good condition BCS (7-11) were less likely to be positive in TB serology testing. In addition, fewer animals in the large camp size (31-50 elephants) were found to be positive in ELISA tests, compared to elephants in the other camp sizes. In this study, the North region had the lowest percentages of elephants with positive TB test outcome, the West region and to a lesser extend the other regions showed clearly higher percentages of positive animals. Even though assays used in the present study have not been validated yet, results obtained showed promise as diagnostic or screening tests. For the diagnosis of animals suspected to be infected, the ELISA tests, once further optimized for the individual antigens, can be used in parallel. For screening of complete camps for presence or absence of infection, a single optimized ELISA test can be utilized.
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Affiliation(s)
- Taweepoke Angkwanish
- Department Biomolecular Health Sciences, Division Infectious Diseases and Immunology, Section Immunology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands.,National Elephant Institute, Forest Industry Organization, Lampang, Thailand
| | - Hans J C M Vernooij
- Department Population Health Sciences, Division Farm Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Anucha Sirimalaisuwan
- Center of Excellence in Elephant and Wildlife Research, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
| | - Pattara Charernpan
- Department Population Health Sciences, Division Farm Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Mirjam Nielen
- National Elephant Research and Health Services, Department of Livestock Development, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Victor P M G Rutten
- Department Biomolecular Health Sciences, Division Infectious Diseases and Immunology, Section Immunology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands.,Department of Veterinary Tropical Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
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10
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Affiliation(s)
- Yogendra Shah
- National Zoonoses and Food Hygiene Research Center, Kathmandu, Nepal
| | - Sarad Paudel
- Department of Pathobiology and Diagnostic Investigation, College of Veterinary Medicine, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA
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Goosen WJ, Kleynhans L, Kerr TJ, van Helden PD, Buss P, Warren RM, Miller MA. Improved detection of Mycobacterium tuberculosis and M. bovis in African wildlife samples using cationic peptide decontamination and mycobacterial culture supplementation. J Vet Diagn Invest 2021; 34:61-67. [PMID: 34510986 PMCID: PMC8688974 DOI: 10.1177/10406387211044192] [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] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
In South Africa, mycobacterial culture is regarded as the gold standard for the detection of Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex (MTBC) infection in wildlife even though it is regarded as “imperfect.” We compared a novel decontamination and mycobacterial culture technique (TiKa) to the conventional mycobacterium growth indicator tube (MGIT) system using known amounts of bacilli and clinical samples from MTBC-infected African buffaloes (Syncerus caffer), white rhinoceros (Ceratotherium simum), and African elephants (Loxodonta africana). Use of the TiKa-KiC decontamination agent on samples spiked with 10,000 to 10 colony forming units (cfu) of M. bovis (SB0121) and M. tuberculosis (H37Rv) had no effect on isolate recovery in culture. In contrast, decontamination with MGIT MycoPrep resulted in no growth of M. bovis samples at concentrations < 1,000 cfu and M. tuberculosis samples < 100 cfu. Subsequently, we used the TiKa system with stored clinical samples (various lymphatic tissues) collected from wildlife and paucibacillary bronchoalveolar lavage fluid, trunk washes, and endotracheal tube washes from 3 species with known MTBC infections. Overall, MTBC recovery by culture was improved significantly (p < 0.01) by using TiKa compared to conventional MGIT, with 54 of 57 positive specimens versus 25 of 57 positive specimens, respectively. The TiKa mycobacterial growth system appears to significantly enhance the recovery of MTBC members from tissue and paucibacillary respiratory samples collected from African buffaloes, African elephants, and white rhinoceros. Moreover, the TiKa system may improve success of MTBC culture from various sample types previously deemed unculturable from other species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wynand J Goosen
- DSI-NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research, South African Medical Research Council Centre for Tuberculosis Research, Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Léanie Kleynhans
- DSI-NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research, South African Medical Research Council Centre for Tuberculosis Research, Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Tanya J Kerr
- DSI-NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research, South African Medical Research Council Centre for Tuberculosis Research, Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Paul D van Helden
- DSI-NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research, South African Medical Research Council Centre for Tuberculosis Research, Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Peter Buss
- Veterinary Wildlife Services, Kruger National Park, South African National Parks, Skukuza, South Africa
| | - Robin M Warren
- DSI-NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research, South African Medical Research Council Centre for Tuberculosis Research, Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Michele A Miller
- DSI-NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research, South African Medical Research Council Centre for Tuberculosis Research, Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
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12
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Miller MA, Kerr TJ, de Waal CR, Goosen WJ, Streicher EM, Hausler G, Rossouw L, Manamela T, van Schalkwyk L, Kleynhans L, Warren R, van Helden P, Buss PE. Mycobacterium bovis Infection in Free-Ranging African Elephants. Emerg Infect Dis 2021; 27:990-992. [PMID: 33622488 PMCID: PMC7920657 DOI: 10.3201/eid2703.204729] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Mycobacterium bovis infection in wildlife species occurs worldwide. However, few cases of M. bovis infection in captive elephants have been reported. We describe 2 incidental cases of bovine tuberculosis in free-ranging African elephants (Loxodonta africana) from a tuberculosis-endemic national park in South Africa and the epidemiologic implications of these infections.
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13
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Kerr TJ, Goosen WJ, Gumbo R, de Klerk-Lorist LM, Pretorius O, Buss PE, Kleynhans L, Lyashchenko KP, Warren RM, van Helden PD, Miller MA. Diagnosis of Mycobacterium bovis infection in free-ranging common hippopotamus (Hippopotamus amphibius). Transbound Emerg Dis 2021; 69:378-384. [PMID: 33423384 DOI: 10.1111/tbed.13989] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2020] [Revised: 09/29/2020] [Accepted: 01/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Bovine tuberculosis (bTB), caused by Mycobacterium bovis (M. bovis) infection, is a multi-host disease which negatively affects the wildlife industry, with adverse consequences for conservation, ecotourism, and game/wildlife sales. Although interspecies transmission has been reported between some wildlife hosts, the risk of spread in complex ecosystems is largely unknown. As a controlled disease, tools for accurate detection of M. bovis infection are crucial for effective surveillance and management, especially in wildlife populations. There are, however, limited species-specific diagnostic tests available for wildlife. Hippopotamuses are rarely tested for M. bovis infection, and infection has not previously been confirmed in these species. In this study, blood and tissue samples collected from common hippopotamus (Hippopotamus amphibius) residing in a bTB-endemic area, the Greater Kruger Protected area (GKPA), were retrospectively screened to determine whether there was evidence for interspecies transmission of M. bovis, and identify tools for M. bovis detection in this species. Using the multi-species DPP® VetTB serological assay, a bTB seroprevalence of 8% was found in hippopotamus from GKPA. In addition, the first confirmed case of M. bovis infection in a free-ranging common hippopotamus is reported, based on the isolation in mycobacterial culture, genetic speciation and detection of DNA in tissue samples. Importantly, the M. bovis spoligotype (SB0121) isolated from this common hippopotamus is shared with other M. bovis-infected hosts in GKPA, suggesting interspecies transmission. These results support the hypothesis that M. bovis infection may be under recognized in hippopotamus. Further investigation is needed to determine the risk of interspecies transmission of M. bovis to common hippopotamus in bTB-endemic ecosystems and evaluate serological and other diagnostic tools in this species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tanya J Kerr
- Department of Science and Innovation-National Research Foundation Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research, South African Medical Research Council Centre for Tuberculosis Research, Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Wynand J Goosen
- Department of Science and Innovation-National Research Foundation Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research, South African Medical Research Council Centre for Tuberculosis Research, Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Rachiel Gumbo
- Department of Science and Innovation-National Research Foundation Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research, South African Medical Research Council Centre for Tuberculosis Research, Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Lin-Mari de Klerk-Lorist
- Skukuza State Veterinary Office, Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development, Skukuza, South Africa
| | - Oonagh Pretorius
- Bushbuckridge South State Veterinary Office, Department of Agriculture, Rural Development, Land and Environmental Affairs, Mkhuhlu, South Africa
| | - Peter E Buss
- Veterinary Wildlife Services, South African National Parks, Skukuza, South Africa
| | - Léanie Kleynhans
- Department of Science and Innovation-National Research Foundation Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research, South African Medical Research Council Centre for Tuberculosis Research, Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | | | - Robin M Warren
- Department of Science and Innovation-National Research Foundation Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research, South African Medical Research Council Centre for Tuberculosis Research, Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Paul D van Helden
- Department of Science and Innovation-National Research Foundation Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research, South African Medical Research Council Centre for Tuberculosis Research, Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Michele A Miller
- Department of Science and Innovation-National Research Foundation Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research, South African Medical Research Council Centre for Tuberculosis Research, Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
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14
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Jones PD, Campbell JE, Brown G, Johannes CM, Reddell P. Recurrence-free interval 12 months after local treatment of mast cell tumors in dogs using intratumoral injection of tigilanol tiglate. J Vet Intern Med 2020; 35:451-455. [PMID: 33350511 PMCID: PMC7848364 DOI: 10.1111/jvim.16018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2020] [Revised: 12/09/2020] [Accepted: 12/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Tigilanol tiglate (TT) is a novel small molecule approved by the European Medicines Agency for intratumoral treatment of mast cell tumors (MCTs) in dogs. In a randomized controlled clinical efficacy and safety study in the United States, 85 of 116 dogs that received a single TT injection achieved complete response (CR) of the treated MCT by day 28. Objective To evaluate the durability of the TT treatment response achieved at day 28 in the U.S. study by assessing MCT recurrence at the treatment site 6 and 12 months after TT administration. Animals Eighty‐five dogs previously treated with TT. Methods Dogs that achieved CR at day 28 were assessed retrospectively for the presence or absence of MCT at the treatment site using records from clinical visits and telephone interviews with owners. Dogs unavailable at an assessment time were considered lost‐to‐follow‐up and data for their last assessment used in the final analysis. Results By 12 months after TT treatment, 64 dogs remained evaluable, with 21 unavailable. Of evaluable patients, 57 (89%) remained tumor free at the treatment site and 7 (11%) had developed recurrence. All recurrences occurred within the first 6 months, predominantly (5/7, 71%) within the first 12 weeks. Conclusions and Clinical Importance Tigilanol tiglate provided a durable long‐term local response for the treatment of MCT in dogs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pamela D Jones
- QBiotics Group Limited, Yungaburra, Queensland, Australia
| | | | - Graham Brown
- QBiotics Group Limited, Yungaburra, Queensland, Australia
| | - Chad M Johannes
- Iowa State University, College of Veterinary Medicine, Ames, Iowa, USA
| | - Paul Reddell
- QBiotics Group Limited, Yungaburra, Queensland, Australia
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Serum Health Biomarkers in African and Asian Elephants: Value Ranges and Clinical Values Indicative of the Immune Response. Animals (Basel) 2020; 10:ani10101756. [PMID: 32992555 PMCID: PMC7601509 DOI: 10.3390/ani10101756] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2020] [Revised: 09/18/2020] [Accepted: 09/25/2020] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Biomarkers are biological molecules found in the blood or other fluids or tissues that can indicate normal or abnormal processes or disease. Developing tools to measure biomarkers that indicate immune function and establishing concentrations observed within a species is an important first step in their use for managing health and understanding disease processes. Here we report assays, observed value ranges, and concentrations during illness or injury for seven immune biomarkers measured in the serum of African and Asian elephants under human care. Concentrations were variable in both clinical and non-clinical samples, but all seven biomarkers were elevated in at least one case and most increased in response to routine vaccination in a single Asian elephant. These tools provide an exciting avenue for monitoring health status and helping diagnose and treat health problems in wildlife species, like elephants. Abstract Serum biomarkers indicative of inflammation and disease can provide useful information regarding host immune processes, responses to treatment and prognosis. The aims of this study were to assess the use of commercially available anti-equine reagents for the quantification of cytokines (tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), interferon-gamma (IFN-γ), interleukins (IL) 2, 6, and 10) in African (Loxodonta africana, n = 125) and Asian (Elephas maximus, n = 104) elephants, and alongside previously validated anti-human reagents for acute-phase proteins (serum amyloid A and haptoglobin), calculate species-specific biomarker value ranges. In addition, we used opportunistically collected samples to investigate the concentrations of each biomarker during identified clinical cases of illness or injury, as a first step to understanding what biomarkers may be useful to managing elephant health. Immune biomarkers were each elevated above the calculated species-specific value ranges in at least one clinical case, but due to variability in both clinical and non-clinical samples, only serum amyloid A was significantly higher in clinical compared to non-clinical paired samples, with tendencies for higher TNF-α and IL-10. We also detected increased secretion of serum amyloid A and all five cytokines following routine vaccination of a single Asian elephant, indicating that these biomarkers can be beneficial for studying normal immune processes as well as pathology. This study indicates that assays developed with commercial reagents can be used to quantify health biomarkers in wildlife species and identifies several that warrant further investigation to elucidate immune responses to various pathologies.
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16
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Goosen WJ, Kerr TJ, Kleynhans L, Warren RM, van Helden PD, Persing DH, Parsons SDC, Buss P, Miller MA. The Xpert MTB/RIF Ultra assay detects Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex DNA in white rhinoceros (Ceratotherium simum) and African elephants (Loxodonta africana). Sci Rep 2020; 10:14482. [PMID: 32879401 PMCID: PMC7468236 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-71568-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2019] [Accepted: 08/17/2020] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
The study describes the novel use of the Xpert MTB/RIF Ultra assay for detection of Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex (MTBC) DNA in samples from white rhinoceros (Ceratotherium simum) and African elephants (Loxodonta africana). Culture negative respiratory sample matrices were spiked to determine if the Ultra could detect MTBC DNA in rhinoceros and elephant samples. Rhinoceros bronchial alveolar lavage fluid (BALF) was found to have an inhibitory effect on the Ultra. In this study, the limit of detection (LOD) of M. tuberculosis H37Rv in all spiked animal samples were 2 CFU/ml compared to 15.6 CFU/ml for humans, while the LOD for M. bovis SB0121 was 30 CFU/ml compared to 143.4 CFU/ml for M. bovis BCG in humans. Screening was performed on stored tissue and respiratory samples from known MTBC-infected animals and MTBC DNA was detected in 92% of samples collected from six rhinoceros and two elephants. Conversely, 83% of culture-negative tissue and respiratory samples from uninfected animals tested negative on the Ultra. In conclusion, the Ultra assay appears to be a sensitive and rapid diagnostic test for the detection of MTBC DNA from tissue and respiratory samples collected from African elephants and rhinoceros. Furthermore, the Ultra assay could provide a new tool for the detection of MTBC in various sample types from other wildlife species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wynand J Goosen
- DSI-NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research, South African Medical Research Council Centre for Tuberculosis Research, Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, PO Box 241, Cape Town, 8000, South Africa.
| | - Tanya J Kerr
- DSI-NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research, South African Medical Research Council Centre for Tuberculosis Research, Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, PO Box 241, Cape Town, 8000, South Africa
| | - Léanie Kleynhans
- DSI-NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research, South African Medical Research Council Centre for Tuberculosis Research, Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, PO Box 241, Cape Town, 8000, South Africa
| | - Robin M Warren
- DSI-NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research, South African Medical Research Council Centre for Tuberculosis Research, Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, PO Box 241, Cape Town, 8000, South Africa
| | - Paul D van Helden
- DSI-NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research, South African Medical Research Council Centre for Tuberculosis Research, Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, PO Box 241, Cape Town, 8000, South Africa
| | | | - Sven D C Parsons
- DSI-NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research, South African Medical Research Council Centre for Tuberculosis Research, Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, PO Box 241, Cape Town, 8000, South Africa
| | - Peter Buss
- Veterinary Wildlife Services, Kruger National Park, South African National Parks, Skukuza, South Africa
| | - Michele A Miller
- DSI-NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research, South African Medical Research Council Centre for Tuberculosis Research, Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, PO Box 241, Cape Town, 8000, South Africa
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Goosen WJ, Kerr TJ, Kleynhans L, Buss P, Cooper D, Warren RM, van Helden PD, Schröder B, Parsons SDC, Miller MA. The VetMAX™ M. tuberculosis complex PCR kit detects MTBC DNA in antemortem and postmortem samples from white rhinoceros (Ceratotherium simum), African elephants (Loxodonta africana) and African buffaloes (Syncerus caffer). BMC Vet Res 2020; 16:220. [PMID: 32600471 PMCID: PMC7325085 DOI: 10.1186/s12917-020-02438-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2020] [Accepted: 06/19/2020] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Bovine tuberculosis and tuberculosis are chronic infectious diseases caused by the Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex members, Mycobacterium bovis and Mycobacterium tuberculosis, respectively. Infection with M. bovis and M. tuberculosis have significant implications for wildlife species management, public health, veterinary disease control, and conservation endeavours. RESULTS Here we describe the first use of the VetMAX™ Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex (MTBC) DNA quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) detection kit for African wildlife samples. DNA was extracted from tissues harvested from 48 African buffaloes and MTBC DNA was detected (test-positive) in all 26 M. bovis culture-confirmed animals with an additional 12 PCR-positive results in culture-negative buffaloes (originating from an exposed population). Of six MTBC-infected African rhinoceros tested, MTBC DNA was detected in antemortem and postmortem samples from five animals. The PCR was also able to detect MTBC DNA in samples from two African elephants confirmed to have M. bovis and M. tuberculosis infections (one each). Culture-confirmed uninfected rhinoceros and elephants' samples tested negative in the PCR assay. CONCLUSIONS These results suggest this new detection kit is a sensitive screening test for the detection of MTBC-infected African buffaloes, African elephants and white rhinoceros.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wynand J Goosen
- DSI-NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research, South African Medical Research Council Centre for Tuberculosis Research, Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, P.O. Box 241, Cape Town, 8000, South Africa.
| | - Tanya J Kerr
- DSI-NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research, South African Medical Research Council Centre for Tuberculosis Research, Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, P.O. Box 241, Cape Town, 8000, South Africa
| | - Léanie Kleynhans
- DSI-NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research, South African Medical Research Council Centre for Tuberculosis Research, Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, P.O. Box 241, Cape Town, 8000, South Africa
| | - Peter Buss
- Veterinary Wildlife Services, South African National Parks, Kruger National Park, Limpopo, South Africa
| | - David Cooper
- Enzemvelo KZN Wildlife, P.O. Box 25, Mtubatuba, 3935, South Africa
| | - Robin M Warren
- DSI-NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research, South African Medical Research Council Centre for Tuberculosis Research, Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, P.O. Box 241, Cape Town, 8000, South Africa
| | - Paul D van Helden
- DSI-NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research, South African Medical Research Council Centre for Tuberculosis Research, Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, P.O. Box 241, Cape Town, 8000, South Africa
| | - Björn Schröder
- Thermo Fisher Scientific; Prionics AG, Wagistrasse 27A; Schlieren, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Sven D C Parsons
- DSI-NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research, South African Medical Research Council Centre for Tuberculosis Research, Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, P.O. Box 241, Cape Town, 8000, South Africa
| | - Michele A Miller
- DSI-NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research, South African Medical Research Council Centre for Tuberculosis Research, Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, P.O. Box 241, Cape Town, 8000, South Africa
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Paudel S, Sreevatsan S. Tuberculosis in elephants: Origins and evidence of interspecies transmission. Tuberculosis (Edinb) 2020; 123:101962. [PMID: 32741531 DOI: 10.1016/j.tube.2020.101962] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2020] [Revised: 06/03/2020] [Accepted: 06/04/2020] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Tuberculosis (TB) is a devastating disease in elephants caused by either Mycobacterium tuberculosis or M. bovis. It is an ancient disease, and TB in elephants was first reported over two millennia ago in Sri Lanka. Outbreaks of TB worldwide, in captive and free-ranging elephant populations, have been recorded. Interspecies transmission of TB among elephants and humans has been confirmed in several geographic localities using spoligotyping, MIRU-VNTR analysis, and/or comparative genomics. Active surveillance of TB in wild and captive elephants and their handlers is necessary to prevent TB transmission at the elephant-human interface and to aid in the conservation of Asian and African elephants. In this review, we present an overview of diagnosis, reports of TB outbreaks in the past 25 years, TB in wild elephants, its transmission, and possible prevention and control strategies that can be applied at the elephant-human interface.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarad Paudel
- Department of Pathobiology and Diagnostic Investigation, College of Veterinary Medicine, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, 48824, USA.
| | - Srinand Sreevatsan
- Department of Pathobiology and Diagnostic Investigation, College of Veterinary Medicine, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, 48824, USA.
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Guimaraes AMS, Zimpel CK. Mycobacterium bovis: From Genotyping to Genome Sequencing. Microorganisms 2020; 8:E667. [PMID: 32375210 PMCID: PMC7285088 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms8050667] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2020] [Revised: 04/17/2020] [Accepted: 04/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Mycobacterium bovis is the main pathogen of bovine, zoonotic, and wildlife tuberculosis. Despite the existence of programs for bovine tuberculosis (bTB) control in many regions, the disease remains a challenge for the veterinary and public health sectors, especially in developing countries and in high-income nations with wildlife reservoirs. Current bTB control programs are mostly based on test-and-slaughter, movement restrictions, and post-mortem inspection measures. In certain settings, contact tracing and surveillance has benefited from M. bovis genotyping techniques. More recently, whole-genome sequencing (WGS) has become the preferential technique to inform outbreak response through contact tracing and source identification for many infectious diseases. As the cost per genome decreases, the application of WGS to bTB control programs is inevitable moving forward. However, there are technical challenges in data analyses and interpretation that hinder the implementation of M. bovis WGS as a molecular epidemiology tool. Therefore, the aim of this review is to describe M. bovis genotyping techniques and discuss current standards and challenges of the use of M. bovis WGS for transmission investigation, surveillance, and global lineages distribution. We compiled a series of associated research gaps to be explored with the ultimate goal of implementing M. bovis WGS in a standardized manner in bTB control programs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana M. S. Guimaraes
- Laboratory of Applied Research in Mycobacteria, Department of Microbiology, University of São Paulo, São Paulo 01246-904, Brazil;
| | - Cristina K. Zimpel
- Laboratory of Applied Research in Mycobacteria, Department of Microbiology, University of São Paulo, São Paulo 01246-904, Brazil;
- Department of Preventive Veterinary Medicine and Animal Health, University of São Paulo, São Paulo 01246-904, Brazil
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Zumla A, Yeboah-Manu D, Michel AL, Azhar EI, Torrelles JB, Cadmus SI, Kendall SL, Chakaya JM, Marais B, Kock R. Zoonotic tuberculosis-a call for an open One Health debate. THE LANCET. INFECTIOUS DISEASES 2020; 20:642-644. [PMID: 32213331 DOI: 10.1016/s1473-3099(20)30166-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2020] [Accepted: 03/02/2020] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Alimuddin Zumla
- Division of Infection and Immunity, University College London, London, UK; National Institute for Health Research Biomedical Research Centre, University College London Hospitals National Health Service Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Dorothy Yeboah-Manu
- Bacteriology Department, Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research, University of Ghana, Legon, Accra, Ghana
| | - Anita L Michel
- Department of Veterinary Tropical Diseases, Bovine Tuberculosis and Brucellosis Research Programme, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, University of Pretoria, Onderstepoort, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Esam I Azhar
- Special Infectious Agents Unit, King Fahd Medical Research Center, and Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | | | - Simeon I Cadmus
- Department of Veterinary Public Health and Preventive Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria
| | - Sharon L Kendall
- Pathobiology and Population Sciences, The Royal Veterinary College, Hatfield AL9 7TA, UK
| | - Jeremiah M Chakaya
- Department of Medicine, Therapeutics, Dermatology and Psychiatry, Kenyatta University, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Ben Marais
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia; Marie Bashir Institute for Infectious Diseases and Biosecurity, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Richard Kock
- Pathobiology and Population Sciences, The Royal Veterinary College, Hatfield AL9 7TA, UK.
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21
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Seroprevalence of Mycobacterium tuberculosis Complex in Free-Ranging African Elephants (Loxodonta africana) in Kruger National Park, South Africa. J Wildl Dis 2019. [DOI: 10.7589/2018-12-292] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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