1
|
Atabek B, Zhyldyz A, Aitakin K, Rysbek N, Jailobek O, Ahedor B, Mumbi NNM, Ma Y, Otgonsuren D, Perera WPPSI, Guswanto A, Sivakumar T, Yokoyama N. Molecular prevalence and genotypic diversity of Theileria equi and Babesia caballi infecting horses in Kyrgyzstan. Parasitol Int 2024; 102:102915. [PMID: 38914218 DOI: 10.1016/j.parint.2024.102915] [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: 02/27/2024] [Revised: 06/18/2024] [Accepted: 06/18/2024] [Indexed: 06/26/2024]
Abstract
Equine piroplasmosis is caused by Theileria equi and Babesia caballi, which are hemoprotozoan parasites. Understanding the epidemiology and genotypes of T. equi and B. caballi is crucial for developing effective control strategies in endemic countries. However, the endemic status of these two parasite species remains uncertain in Kyrgyzstan due to lack of surveys. Our study, therefore, aimed to detect T. equi and B. caballi infections in Kyrgyzstan and identify their genotypes. Blood samples were collected from 226 horses across all seven provinces of Kyrgyzstan, namely Chuy, Issyk-Kul, Naryn, Talas, Jalal-Abad, Osh, and Batken. These blood samples were subjected to DNA extraction, followed by specific PCR assays targeting T. equi and B. caballi. We found that 56 (24.8%, confidence interval (CI): 19.6-30.8%) and 7 (3.1%, CI: 1.5-6.3%) of the tested horses were positive for T. equi and B. caballi infections, respectively. Theileria equi was detected in all surveyed provinces, whereas B. caballi was found in five provinces, except for Talas and Osh. Subsequent genotype-specific PCR assays showed that T. equi-positive horses harbored all five genotypes: A, B, C (also known as Theileria haneyi), D, and E. On the other hand, phylogenetic analysis of B. caballi rap-1 sequences detected the genotypes A and B1. The prevalence of T. equi and B. caballi suggests a potential risk of clinical equine piroplasmosis among horses in Kyrgyzstan, and the observed genotypic diversity underscores the challenges in managing the disease. Our findings emphasize the need for comprehensive control measures to effectively address equine piroplasmosis in Kyrgyzstan.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Berdikulov Atabek
- National Research Center for Protozoan Diseases, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Inada-cho, Obihiro, Hokkaido 080-8555, Japan; Kyrgyz Research Institute of Veterinary named after A. Duisheev, Togolok Moldo Str. 60, Bishkek 720033, Kyrgyzstan
| | - Atambekova Zhyldyz
- Kyrgyz Research Institute of Veterinary named after A. Duisheev, Togolok Moldo Str. 60, Bishkek 720033, Kyrgyzstan
| | - Kamarli Aitakin
- Kyrgyz Research Institute of Veterinary named after A. Duisheev, Togolok Moldo Str. 60, Bishkek 720033, Kyrgyzstan
| | - Nurgaziev Rysbek
- Kyrgyz National Agrarian University named after. K.I. Skryabin, Mederova Str. 68, Bishkek 720005, Kyrgyzstan
| | - Orozov Jailobek
- Kyrgyz Research Institute of Veterinary named after A. Duisheev, Togolok Moldo Str. 60, Bishkek 720033, Kyrgyzstan
| | - Believe Ahedor
- National Research Center for Protozoan Diseases, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Inada-cho, Obihiro, Hokkaido 080-8555, Japan
| | - Ngigi Noel Muthoni Mumbi
- National Research Center for Protozoan Diseases, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Inada-cho, Obihiro, Hokkaido 080-8555, Japan
| | - Yihong Ma
- National Research Center for Protozoan Diseases, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Inada-cho, Obihiro, Hokkaido 080-8555, Japan
| | - Davaajav Otgonsuren
- National Research Center for Protozoan Diseases, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Inada-cho, Obihiro, Hokkaido 080-8555, Japan
| | | | - Azirwan Guswanto
- National Research Center for Protozoan Diseases, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Inada-cho, Obihiro, Hokkaido 080-8555, Japan
| | - Thillaiampalam Sivakumar
- National Research Center for Protozoan Diseases, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Inada-cho, Obihiro, Hokkaido 080-8555, Japan
| | - Naoaki Yokoyama
- National Research Center for Protozoan Diseases, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Inada-cho, Obihiro, Hokkaido 080-8555, Japan; WOAH Reference Laboratories for Bovine Babesiosis and Equine Piroplasmosis, National Research Center for Protozoan Diseases, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Inada-cho, Obihiro, Hokkaido 080-8555, Japan.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Mendoza FJ, Pérez-Écija A, Kappmeyer LS, Suarez CE, Bastos RG. New insights in the diagnosis and treatment of equine piroplasmosis: pitfalls, idiosyncrasies, and myths. Front Vet Sci 2024; 11:1459989. [PMID: 39205808 PMCID: PMC11349644 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2024.1459989] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2024] [Accepted: 07/29/2024] [Indexed: 09/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Equine piroplasmosis (EP) is a global tick-borne disease of equids caused by the intraerythrocytic apicomplexan parasites Theileria equi and Babesia caballi, and the more recently discovered Theileria haneyi. These parasites can be transmitted by several tick species, including Dermacentor, Hyalomma, and Rhipicephalus, but iatrogenic and vertical transmission are also common. Clinical signs of EP include poor performance, fever, icterus, abortions, among others, and peracute or acute forms of infection are associated with high mortality in non-endemic areas. EP is a reportable disease and represents an important barrier for the international trade of horses and other equids, causing disruption of international equine sports. Tick control measures, serological and molecular diagnostic methods, and parasiticidal drugs are currently used against EP, while vaccines remain unavailable. Since most acaricides used in equids are non-environmentally friendly and linked to drug resistances, this is considered as an unsustainable approach. Imidocarb dipropionate (ID) and buparvaquone (BPQ) are currently the main drugs used to control the disease. However, while ID has several side and toxic effects and recurrent failures of treatment have been reported, BPQ is less effective in the clearance of T. equi infection and not available in some countries. Thus, novel alternative and effective therapeutics are needed. While current trade regulations require testing equids for EP before exportation, the lack of standardized PCR tests and limitations of the currently recommended serological assays entail a risk of inaccurate diagnosis. Hereby, we propose a combination of standardized PCR-based techniques and improved serological tests to diminish the risks of exporting EP-infected animals making equid international trade safer. In addition, this review discusses, based on scientific evidence, several idiosyncrasies, pitfalls and myths associated with EP, and identifies weaknesses of current methods of control and gaps of research, as initial steps toward developing novel strategies leading to control this disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Francisco J. Mendoza
- Department of Animal Medicine and Surgery, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Cordoba, Cordoba, Spain
| | - Alejandro Pérez-Écija
- Department of Animal Medicine and Surgery, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Cordoba, Cordoba, Spain
| | - Lowell S. Kappmeyer
- Animal Disease Research Unit, Agricultural Research Service, United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), Pullman, WA, United States
| | - Carlos E. Suarez
- Animal Disease Research Unit, Agricultural Research Service, United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), Pullman, WA, United States
- Department of Veterinary Microbiology and Pathology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, United States
| | - Reginaldo G. Bastos
- Animal Disease Research Unit, Agricultural Research Service, United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), Pullman, WA, United States
- Department of Veterinary Microbiology and Pathology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, United States
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Onzere CK, Hassan A, Sears K, Kappmeyer LS, Villarino NF, Fry LM, Bastos RG. Transient efficacy of buparvaquone against Theileria haneyi in chronically infected horses. Parasit Vectors 2024; 17:337. [PMID: 39129000 PMCID: PMC11318256 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-024-06397-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2024] [Accepted: 07/05/2024] [Indexed: 08/13/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Theileria haneyi is one of the three known causative agents of equine piroplasmosis. While imidocarb is generally effective in the clearance of the highly pathogenic Theileria equi, it is ineffective in the treatment of T. haneyi. Moreover, co-infection with T. haneyi has been shown to impede the successful treatment of T. equi. Furthermore, tulathromycin and diclazuril have demonstrated inefficacy in eradicating T. haneyi. The absence of an effective therapeutic agent against this parasite represents a significant obstacle in managing equine piroplasmosis. METHODS To address this issue, we evaluated the efficacy of buparvaquone in the treatment of T. haneyi in chronically infected horses. RESULTS Our findings showed that treatment of horses with the recommended dose of 2.5 mg/kg of buparvaquone led to a rapid abatement of T. haneyi levels, to a level where the parasites were not detectable by nested PCR. Following treatment, the horses remained PCR negative for a minimum of seven weeks until recrudescence occurred. Subsequent re-administration of buparvaquone at an increased dosage of 6 mg/kg upon recrudescence failed to exert a theilericidal effect on T. haneyi. Throughout the treatment regimen, the hematological parameters of the horses and most components of the chemistry panel remained within the normal range, except for blood urea nitrogen levels, which fell below the normal range in certain instances. CONCLUSIONS BPQ at 2.5 mg/kg and 6 mg/kg had a robust theilericidal effect but was ineffective in the clearance of the T. haneyi infection in persistently infected animals.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Cynthia K Onzere
- Department of Veterinary Microbiology and Pathology, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, USA
| | - Amany Hassan
- Department of Veterinary Microbiology and Pathology, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, USA
- Department of Animal Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Alexandria, Alexandria, Egypt
| | - Kelly Sears
- Carlson College of Veterinary Medicine, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR, USA
| | | | - Nicolas F Villarino
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Washington State University, Pullman, USA
| | - Lindsay M Fry
- Department of Veterinary Microbiology and Pathology, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, USA
| | - Reginaldo G Bastos
- Department of Veterinary Microbiology and Pathology, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, USA.
- Animal Disease Research Unit, USDA-ARS, Pullman, WA, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Chiara M, Mariaelena DC, Alessandro C, Davide DB, Lavinia C, Paola MM, Barbara L, Chiara DP, Flagiello F, Pia PM. Influence of haematological parameters on size of the advanced platelet-rich fibrin+ (A-PRF+) in the horse. Res Vet Sci 2024; 177:105367. [PMID: 39098093 DOI: 10.1016/j.rvsc.2024.105367] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2024] [Accepted: 07/26/2024] [Indexed: 08/06/2024]
Abstract
The advanced-PRF+ (A-PRF+) is a platelet concentrate, showing a higher concentration of growth factors, an increased number of cells and looser structure of the fibrin clot than leukocyte-PRF. A high variability in the size of PRF associated with patients, haematological features and centrifugation protocols was reported. The aims of this study were to evaluate the feasibility of A-PRF+ production in the field and the correlation between haematological parameters, macroscopic and microscopic features in equine A-PRF+. Samples from twenty Standardbred horses (3-7 years) were harvested with glass tubes without anticoagulants, previously heated at 37 °C. Blood samples were centrifugated at 1300 rpm for 8 min with a fixed-angle centrifuge and a horizontal centrifuge in the field, at a temperature of 15-17 °C. Clots were measured and placed on the Wound Box® for a 2-min compression. Membranes were measured and fixed in 10% formalin for histological examination. Clot and membrane surface did not differ between sex and centrifuge. Haematological parameters did not show a significant correlation to clot and membrane size. Membranes obtained from both centrifugation protocols showed a loose fibrin structure and cells evenly distributed throughout the clot. Tubes' warming was effective to obtain A-PRF+ clots from all samples, regardless the environmental temperature. Further studies are needed to evaluate the influence of other blood molecules on the A-PRF+ structure and size.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Montano Chiara
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, Unit of Surgery, University of Naples "Federico II", Via Federico Delpino 1, 80137 Naples, Italy
| | - de Chiara Mariaelena
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, Unit of Surgery, University of Naples "Federico II", Via Federico Delpino 1, 80137 Naples, Italy.
| | - Crisci Alessandro
- Unit of Dermosurgery, Cutaneous Transplantation and Hard-To-Heal Wound, "Villa Fiorita" Private Hospital, Via Filippo Saporito, 24, 81031 Aversa (CE), Italy
| | - De Biase Davide
- Department of Pharmacy University of Salerno, Via Giovanni Paolo II 132, 84084 Fisciano (SA), Italy
| | - Ciuca Lavinia
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, University of Napoles Federico II, CREMOPAR, WHO Collaborating Centre ITA-116, Naples, Italy
| | - Maurelli Maria Paola
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, University of Napoles Federico II, CREMOPAR, WHO Collaborating Centre ITA-116, Naples, Italy
| | - Lamagna Barbara
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, Unit of Surgery, University of Naples "Federico II", Via Federico Delpino 1, 80137 Naples, Italy
| | - Del Prete Chiara
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, Unit of Animal Reproduction, University of Naples "Federico II", Via Federico Delpino 1, 80137 Naples, Italy
| | - Fabiana Flagiello
- Analysis Laboratory "Villa Fiorita" Private Hospital, Aversa (CE), Italy
| | - Pasolini Maria Pia
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, Unit of Surgery, University of Naples "Federico II", Via Federico Delpino 1, 80137 Naples, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Rar V, Marchenko V, Suntsova O, Epikhina T, Tikunov A, Meltsov I, Fedorets V, Igolkina Y, Kozlova I, Tikunova N. The first study of the prevalence and genetic diversity of Theileria equi and Babesia caballi in horses in Russia. Parasitol Res 2024; 123:279. [PMID: 39031213 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-024-08300-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2024] [Accepted: 07/10/2024] [Indexed: 07/22/2024]
Abstract
Equine piroplasmosis (EP) is a global worldwide infection, which can lead to the death of animals. Despite the causative agents of EP being well studied, there are no data on the distribution and genetic characteristics of EP agents in any region of Russia. In this study, blood samples from 750 horses from Novosibirsk province, Irkutsk province, and Altai region of Russian Siberia were examined for the presence of EP agents. Theileria equi and Babesia caballi were detected in all examined regions, with mean prevalence rates of 60.4% and 7.2%, respectively. The identified pathogens were genetically characterized by the 18S rRNA gene. The determined T. equi sequences were highly conserved and belonged to genotypes A and E, with genotype E being found in 88.6% of genotyped samples. In contrast to T. equi, B. caballi sequences were genetically diverse. Seven sequence variants of B. caballi were identified, and only two of them matched known sequences from the GenBank database. The determined B. caballi sequences belonged to four distinct branches within genotype A. Mixed infections with several variants of B. caballi or with T. equi and B. caballi were common. The conducted phylogenetic analysis based on all available B. caballi sequences of the 18S rRNA gene (> 900 bp) from GenBank and from this study first demonstrated the presence of five monophyletic clusters within genotype A and three clusters within genotype B. Thus, the genetic study of B. caballi from Siberia has significantly expanded the data on the genetic diversity of this pathogen.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Vera Rar
- Institute of Chemical Biology and Fundamental Medicine SB RAS, Novosibirsk, Russia.
| | - Victor Marchenko
- Federal Altai Scientific Center for Agrobiotechnology, Barnaul, Russia
| | - Olga Suntsova
- Scientific Centre for Family Health and Human Reproduction Problems, Irkutsk, Russia
| | - Tamara Epikhina
- Institute of Chemical Biology and Fundamental Medicine SB RAS, Novosibirsk, Russia
| | - Artem Tikunov
- Institute of Chemical Biology and Fundamental Medicine SB RAS, Novosibirsk, Russia
| | - Ivan Meltsov
- Irkutsk State Agrarian University Named After A.A. Ezhevsky, Irkutsk Province, Molodezhny Settlement, Russia
| | - Valeria Fedorets
- Institute of Chemical Biology and Fundamental Medicine SB RAS, Novosibirsk, Russia
| | - Yana Igolkina
- Institute of Chemical Biology and Fundamental Medicine SB RAS, Novosibirsk, Russia
| | - Irina Kozlova
- Scientific Centre for Family Health and Human Reproduction Problems, Irkutsk, Russia
| | - Nina Tikunova
- Institute of Chemical Biology and Fundamental Medicine SB RAS, Novosibirsk, Russia
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Baneth G, Nachum-Biala Y, Dvorkin A, Arogeti I, Amiel S, Soueid Y, Shwartz D, Mumcuoglu KY, Salant H. Description of Babesia galileei sp. nov. A Piroplasmid species causing severe disease in domestic cats. Parasit Vectors 2024; 17:297. [PMID: 38982467 PMCID: PMC11234728 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-024-06371-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2024] [Accepted: 06/23/2024] [Indexed: 07/11/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Babesiosis is a tick-borne infection caused by piroplasmid protozoa and associated with anemia and severe disease in humans, domestic animals and wildlife. Domestic cats are infected by at least six Babesia spp. that cause clinical disease. METHODS Infection with a piroplasmid species was detected by microscopy of stained blood smears in three sick cats from Israel. Genetic characterization of the piroplasmid was performed by PCR amplification of the 18S rRNA, cytochorme B (CytB) and heat shock protein 70 (HSP70) genes and the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) locus, DNA sequencing and phylogenetic analysis. In addition, Haemaphysalis adleri ticks collected from two cats were analyzed by PCR for piroplasmids. RESULTS The infected cats presented with anemia and thrombocytopenia (3/3), fever (2/3) and icterus (1/3). Comparison of gene and loci sequences found 99-100% identity between sequences amplified from different cats and ticks. Constructed phylogenetic trees and DNA sequence comparisons demonstrated a previously undescribed Babesia sp. belonging to the Babesia sensu stricto (clade X). The piroplasm forms detected included pear-shaped merozoite and round-to-oval trophozoite stages with average sizes larger than those of Babesia felis, B. leo and B. lengau and smaller than canine Babesia s.s. spp. Four of 11 H. adleri adult ticks analyzed from cat # 3 were PCR positive for Babesia sp. with a DNA sequence identical to that found in the cats. Of these, two ticks were PCR positive in their salivary glands, suggesting that the parasite reached these glands and could possibly be transmitted by H. adleri. CONCLUSIONS This study describes genetic and morphological findings of a new Babesia sp. which we propose to name Babesia galileei sp. nov. after the Galilee region in northern Israel where two of the infected cats originated from. The salivary gland PCR suggests that this Babesia sp. may be transmitted by H. adleri. However, incriminating this tick sp. as the vector of B. galilee sp. nov. would require further studies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gad Baneth
- Koret School of Veterinary Medicine, The Hebrew University, Rehovot, Israel.
| | | | - Ann Dvorkin
- Rehovot Veterinary Hospital, Rehovot, Israel
| | | | | | - Yamit Soueid
- Koret School of Veterinary Medicine, The Hebrew University, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Dor Shwartz
- Koret School of Veterinary Medicine, The Hebrew University, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Kosta Y Mumcuoglu
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, The Hebrew University-Hadassah Medical School, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Harold Salant
- Koret School of Veterinary Medicine, The Hebrew University, Rehovot, Israel
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Li L, Li S, Ma H, Akhtar MF, Tan Y, Wang T, Liu W, Khan A, Khan MZ, Wang C. An Overview of Infectious and Non-Infectious Causes of Pregnancy Losses in Equine. Animals (Basel) 2024; 14:1961. [PMID: 38998073 PMCID: PMC11240482 DOI: 10.3390/ani14131961] [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: 05/20/2024] [Revised: 06/25/2024] [Accepted: 06/28/2024] [Indexed: 07/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Equine breeding plays an essential role in the local economic development of many countries, and it has experienced rapid growth in China in recent years. However, the equine industry, particularly large-scale donkey farms, faces a significant challenge with pregnancy losses. Unfortunately, there is a lack of systematic research on abortion during equine breeding. Several causes, both infectious and non-infectious, of pregnancy losses have been documented in equines. The infectious causes are viruses, bacteria, parasites, and fungi. Non-infectious causes may include long transportation, ingestion of mycotoxins, hormonal disturbances, twinning, placentitis, umbilical length and torsion, etc. In current review, we discuss the transmission routes, diagnostic methods, and control measures for these infectious agents. Early detection of the cause and appropriate management are crucial in preventing pregnancy loss in equine practice. This review aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the potential causes of abortion in equines, including infectious agents and non-infectious factors. It emphasizes the importance of continued research and effective control measures to address this significant challenge in the equine industry.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Liangliang Li
- Liaocheng Research Institute of Donkey High-Efficiency Breeding and Ecological Feeding, Liaocheng University, Liaocheng 252059, China; (L.L.)
| | - Shuwen Li
- Liaocheng Research Institute of Donkey High-Efficiency Breeding and Ecological Feeding, Liaocheng University, Liaocheng 252059, China; (L.L.)
| | - Haoran Ma
- Liaocheng Research Institute of Donkey High-Efficiency Breeding and Ecological Feeding, Liaocheng University, Liaocheng 252059, China; (L.L.)
| | - Muhammad Faheem Akhtar
- Liaocheng Research Institute of Donkey High-Efficiency Breeding and Ecological Feeding, Liaocheng University, Liaocheng 252059, China; (L.L.)
| | - Ying Tan
- Liaocheng Research Institute of Donkey High-Efficiency Breeding and Ecological Feeding, Liaocheng University, Liaocheng 252059, China; (L.L.)
| | - Tongtong Wang
- Liaocheng Research Institute of Donkey High-Efficiency Breeding and Ecological Feeding, Liaocheng University, Liaocheng 252059, China; (L.L.)
| | - Wenhua Liu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao 266109, China
| | - Adnan Khan
- Genome Analysis Laboratory of the Ministry of Agriculture, Agricultural Genomics Institute at Shenzhen, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Shenzhen 511464, China
| | - Muhammad Zahoor Khan
- Liaocheng Research Institute of Donkey High-Efficiency Breeding and Ecological Feeding, Liaocheng University, Liaocheng 252059, China; (L.L.)
| | - Changfa Wang
- Liaocheng Research Institute of Donkey High-Efficiency Breeding and Ecological Feeding, Liaocheng University, Liaocheng 252059, China; (L.L.)
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Cui Y, Cao M, Yu F, Zhao A, Tao D, Zhu T, Zhang Z, Qi M. Molecular detection of piroplasms in domestic donkeys in Xinjiang, China. Vet Med Sci 2024; 10:e1468. [PMID: 38879882 PMCID: PMC11180456 DOI: 10.1002/vms3.1468] [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: 12/13/2023] [Revised: 04/09/2024] [Accepted: 04/21/2024] [Indexed: 06/18/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Piroplasmosis is a common and prevalent tick-borne disease that affects equids. OBJECTIVES To determine the infection and molecular characteristics of the piroplasms in donkeys from Xinjiang, northwestern China, we undertook a cross sectional study by collecting representative samples across several counties within the region. METHODS A total of 344 blood samples were collected from adult domestic donkeys from 13 counties in Xinjiang. PCR was conducted to test for T. equi and B. caballi in the blood samples based on the equine merozoite antigen-1 (Ema-1) gene and the 48 kDa rhoptry protein (BC48) gene, respectively. RESULTS Sixteen blood samples tested positive for piroplasms and the overall infection rate was 4.7% (16/344). Seven of the 13 counties were positive for piroplasms. Among the 16 piroplasm-positive samples, 15 were singly infected with T. equi with an infection rate of 4.4% (15/344), and coinfection with T. equi and B. caballi was detected in one sample (0.3%, 1/344) from Wushi. Four T. equi sequence genotypes were identified and grouped into different branches of the evolutionary trees. CONCLUSION These findings suggest that the infection rate of piroplasms is low in domestic donkeys in southern Xinjiang and that T. equi genotypes have a regional distribution.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yanyan Cui
- School of Biotechnology and Food, Shangqiu Normal University, Shangqiu, PR China
| | - Mengya Cao
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Tarim University, Alar, Xinjiang, PR China
| | - Fuchang Yu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Tarim University, Alar, Xinjiang, PR China
| | - Aiyun Zhao
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Tarim University, Alar, Xinjiang, PR China
| | - Dayong Tao
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Tarim University, Alar, Xinjiang, PR China
| | - Tingting Zhu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Tarim University, Alar, Xinjiang, PR China
| | - Zhenjie Zhang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Tarim University, Alar, Xinjiang, PR China
| | - Meng Qi
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Tarim University, Alar, Xinjiang, PR China
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Onzere CK, Bastos RG, Bishop RP, Suarez CE, Fry LM. Expression of IL-10 and TGF-β1 in horses experimentally infected with T. equi merozoites is associated with antibody production but not modulation of pro-inflammatory responses. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1370255. [PMID: 38803499 PMCID: PMC11128618 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1370255] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2024] [Accepted: 04/23/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Theileria equi (T. equi) is an apicomplexan parasite that causes severe hemolytic anemia in equids. Presently, there is inadequate knowledge of the immune responses induced by T. equi in equid hosts impeding understanding of the host parasite relationship and development of potent vaccines for control of T. equi infections. The objective of this study was to evaluate the host-parasite dynamics between T. equi merozoites and infected horses by assessing cytokine expression during primary and secondary parasite exposure, and to determine whether the pattern of expression correlated with clinical indicators of disease. Our findings showed that the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines was very low and inconsistent during both primary and secondary infection. There was also no correlation between the symptoms observed during primary infection and expression of the cytokines. This suggests that the symptoms might have occurred primarily due to hemolysis and likely not the undesirable effects of pro-inflammatory responses. However, IL-10 and TGF-β1 were highly expressed in both phases of infection, and their expression was linked to antibody production but not moderation of pro-inflammatory cytokine responses.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Cynthia K. Onzere
- Department of Veterinary Microbiology & Pathology, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, United States
| | - Reginaldo G. Bastos
- Department of Veterinary Microbiology & Pathology, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, United States
- Animal Disease Research Unit, Agricultural Research Service, US Department of Agriculture, Pullman, WA, United States
| | - Richard P. Bishop
- Department of Veterinary Microbiology & Pathology, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, United States
| | - Carlos E. Suarez
- Department of Veterinary Microbiology & Pathology, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, United States
- Animal Disease Research Unit, Agricultural Research Service, US Department of Agriculture, Pullman, WA, United States
| | - Lindsay M. Fry
- Department of Veterinary Microbiology & Pathology, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, United States
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Pala S, Martínez-Sáez L, Llobat L, Marín-García PJ. Prevalence and factors associated with Leishmania spp. and Toxoplasma gondii infections in apparently healthy horses in Eastern Spain. Res Vet Sci 2024; 171:105236. [PMID: 38531238 DOI: 10.1016/j.rvsc.2024.105236] [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: 02/20/2024] [Revised: 03/19/2024] [Accepted: 03/20/2024] [Indexed: 03/28/2024]
Abstract
Leishmaniasis and toxoplasmosis are two of the most common parasitic zoonoses. Leishmaniasis is endemic to 98 countries around the world, whereas toxoplasmosis is widely distributed throughout the world, causing significant health expenditure. Horses can play a relevant role in the transmission of the disease, being a silent reservoir, as clinical signs are not common. Serum samples from 166 horses living in eastern Spain (Mediterranean basin) were analysed to determine the presence of antibodies against Leishmania spp. and T. gondii by ELISA (Enzyme-linked Immunosorbent Assay.) The risk factors evaluated were the geographical area and the relative humidity and average temperature, and epidemiological factors such as sex, reproductive status, age, breed, morphotype, living with other domestic animals, use and access to the outdoors. Seroprevalence of Leishmania spp. and T. gondii infection was found 28.92%, and 16.27% respectively, whereas co-infection of the two parasites was found only in two males. Leishmania seroprevalence was high in castrated males and several mesodolichomorphic equine breeds used for teaching, as well as in outdoor animals. The most elevated seroprevalence was found in winter with higher levels of rainfall, whereas high seroprevalence of T. gondii was found in crossbreeding animals and those used for breeding. High seroprevalence of Leishmania spp. and T. gondii was found in horses of the Mediterranean basin. These data suggest that horses can act as a silent reservoir and that this species has high potential for transmission to humans, outdoor animals and in geographical areas with high average rainfall.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Samuele Pala
- Molecular Mechanisms of Zoonotic Diseases (MMOPS) Research group, Departamento Producción y Sanidad Animal, Salud Pública y Ciencia y Tecnología de los Alimentos (PASAPTA), Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad Cardenal Herrera-CEU, CEU Universities, 46113 Valencia, Spain
| | - Lola Martínez-Sáez
- Molecular Mechanisms of Zoonotic Diseases (MMOPS) Research group, Departamento Producción y Sanidad Animal, Salud Pública y Ciencia y Tecnología de los Alimentos (PASAPTA), Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad Cardenal Herrera-CEU, CEU Universities, 46113 Valencia, Spain
| | - Lola Llobat
- Molecular Mechanisms of Zoonotic Diseases (MMOPS) Research group, Departamento Producción y Sanidad Animal, Salud Pública y Ciencia y Tecnología de los Alimentos (PASAPTA), Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad Cardenal Herrera-CEU, CEU Universities, 46113 Valencia, Spain.
| | - Pablo Jesús Marín-García
- Departamento Producción y Sanidad Animal, Salud Pública y Ciencia y Tecnología de los Alimentos (PASAPTA), Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad Cardenal Herrera-CEU, CEU Universities, 46113 Valencia, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Axt CW, Springer A, Strube C, Jung C, Naucke TJ, Müller E, Schäfer I. Molecular and Serological Detection of Vector-Borne Pathogens Responsible for Equine Piroplasmosis in Europe between 2008 and 2021. Microorganisms 2024; 12:816. [PMID: 38674760 PMCID: PMC11051957 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms12040816] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2024] [Revised: 04/13/2024] [Accepted: 04/14/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Equine piroplasmosis (EP) is caused by Theileria (T.) equi and/or Babesia (B.) caballi. The aim was to assess the percentage of positive test results for EP in horses in Europe and to identify risk factors for pathogen contact/infection. This study included results from PCR and competitive enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay testing requested by European veterinarians between 2008 and 2021. Binary bivariate logistic regression was used to analyze risk factors. A total of 4060 horses were included. PCR testing was positive in 9.7% (154/1589), serology for T. equi in 15.2% (393/2591) and for B. caballi in 6.8% (175/2578). The odds of positive serology increased by 6.8% (B. caballi, p = 0.008) and 9.5% (T. equi, p < 0.001) each year. Regionality had a statistically significant impact on PCR (Eastern p = 0.047/OR = 1.605; Southern p = 0.029/OR = 1.451; Central p = 0.007/OR = 0.617) and serological testing for T. equi (Southern p < 0.001/OR = 2.521; Central p < 0.001/OR = 0.537; Northern p = 0.003/OR = 0.462), as well as breeds on seroprevalence of B. caballi (heavy horses: p = 0.016/OR = 2.239) and T. equi (ponies: p = 0.007/OR = 0.340; warmbloods: p = 0.025/OR = 1.602). In conclusion, there was a significant geographical impact on the results of PCR and serology, consistent with known vector habitats. The rising numbers of horses tested serologically positive highlights the importance of surveillance.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Carla Wiebke Axt
- LABOKLIN GmbH and Co. KG, Steubenstraße 4, 97688 Bad Kissingen, Germany; (C.W.A.); (E.M.)
| | - Andrea Springer
- Institute for Parasitology, Centre for Infection Medicine, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, 30559 Hannover, Germany
| | - Christina Strube
- Institute for Parasitology, Centre for Infection Medicine, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, 30559 Hannover, Germany
| | - Clarissa Jung
- LABOKLIN GmbH and Co. KG, Steubenstraße 4, 97688 Bad Kissingen, Germany; (C.W.A.); (E.M.)
| | - Torsten J. Naucke
- LABOKLIN GmbH and Co. KG, Steubenstraße 4, 97688 Bad Kissingen, Germany; (C.W.A.); (E.M.)
| | - Elisabeth Müller
- LABOKLIN GmbH and Co. KG, Steubenstraße 4, 97688 Bad Kissingen, Germany; (C.W.A.); (E.M.)
| | - Ingo Schäfer
- LABOKLIN GmbH and Co. KG, Steubenstraße 4, 97688 Bad Kissingen, Germany; (C.W.A.); (E.M.)
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Otgonsuren D, Amgalanbaatar T, Narantsatsral S, Enkhtaivan B, Munkhgerel D, Zoljargal M, Davkharbayar B, Myagmarsuren P, Battur B, Battsetseg B, Sivakumar T, Yokoyama N. Epidemiology and genetic diversity of Theileria equi and Babesia caballi in Mongolian horses. INFECTION, GENETICS AND EVOLUTION : JOURNAL OF MOLECULAR EPIDEMIOLOGY AND EVOLUTIONARY GENETICS IN INFECTIOUS DISEASES 2024; 119:105571. [PMID: 38365128 DOI: 10.1016/j.meegid.2024.105571] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2023] [Revised: 02/12/2024] [Accepted: 02/12/2024] [Indexed: 02/18/2024]
Abstract
Equine piroplasmosis is a tick-borne disease caused by Theileria equi and Babesia caballi in horses. Because of its impact on horse industry, control of this disease is crucial for endemic countries. The control of equine piroplasmosis may be influenced by the genotypic diversity of T. equi and B. caballi. Mongolia, a country with a thriving livestock industry, is endemic for T. equi and B. caballi. However, nationwide epidemiological surveys have not been conducted to determine the current status of infections and genetic diversity of these two parasite species. Therefore, the objective of this research was to investigate the infection rates and genotypes of T. equi and B. caballi in horses across Mongolia. Blood samples were collected from 1353 horses in 15 of Mongolia's 21 provinces, and their DNAs were analyzed with T. equi- and B. caballi-specific PCR assays. Additionally, blood smears were prepared from 251 horses, stained with Giemsa, and examined under a light microscope to identify T. equi and B. caballi. The microscopy revealed that 30 (11.9%) and 4 (1.6%) of the 251 horses were positive for T. equi and B. caballi, respectively. By contrast, PCR assays detected the T. equi and B. caballi in 1058 (78.2%) and 62 (4.6%) horses, respectively. Phylogenetic analysis of 18S rRNA sequences from 42 randomly selected T. equi-positive DNA samples detected the genotypes A and E. On the other hand, the rap-1 sequences from 19 randomly selected B. caballi-positive DNA samples occurred in clades representing the genotypes A and B1, as well as in a distinct clade closely related to the genotype A. Our findings confirm the widespread occurrence of T. equi and B. caballi infections in Mongolian horses, highlighting the need for a comprehensive control approach.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Davaajav Otgonsuren
- National Research Center for Protozoan Diseases, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro, Hokkaido, Japan; Laboratory of Molecular Genetics, Institute of Veterinary Medicine, Mongolian University of Life Sciences, Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia
| | - Tovuu Amgalanbaatar
- Laboratory of Molecular Genetics, Institute of Veterinary Medicine, Mongolian University of Life Sciences, Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia
| | - Sandagdorj Narantsatsral
- Laboratory of Molecular Genetics, Institute of Veterinary Medicine, Mongolian University of Life Sciences, Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia
| | - Batsaikhan Enkhtaivan
- Laboratory of Molecular Genetics, Institute of Veterinary Medicine, Mongolian University of Life Sciences, Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia
| | - Dalantai Munkhgerel
- Laboratory of Molecular Genetics, Institute of Veterinary Medicine, Mongolian University of Life Sciences, Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia
| | - Myagmar Zoljargal
- Laboratory of Molecular Genetics, Institute of Veterinary Medicine, Mongolian University of Life Sciences, Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia
| | - Batbold Davkharbayar
- Laboratory of Molecular Genetics, Institute of Veterinary Medicine, Mongolian University of Life Sciences, Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia
| | - Punsantsogvoo Myagmarsuren
- Laboratory of Molecular Genetics, Institute of Veterinary Medicine, Mongolian University of Life Sciences, Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia
| | - Banzrach Battur
- Laboratory of Molecular Genetics, Institute of Veterinary Medicine, Mongolian University of Life Sciences, Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia; Graduate School, Mongolian University of Life Sciences, Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia
| | - Badgar Battsetseg
- Laboratory of Molecular Genetics, Institute of Veterinary Medicine, Mongolian University of Life Sciences, Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia
| | - Thillaiampalam Sivakumar
- National Research Center for Protozoan Diseases, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro, Hokkaido, Japan
| | - Naoaki Yokoyama
- National Research Center for Protozoan Diseases, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro, Hokkaido, Japan; WOAH Reference Laboratories for Bovine Babesiosis and Equine Piroplasmosis, National Research Center for Protozoan Diseases, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro, Hokkaido, Japan.
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Jongejan F, Du C, Papadopoulos E, Blanda V, Di Bella S, Cannella V, Guercio A, Vicari D, Tirosh-Levy S, Steinman A, Baneth G, van Keulen S, Hulsebos I, Berger L, Wang X. Diagnostic performance of a rapid immunochromatographic test for the simultaneous detection of antibodies to Theileria equi and Babesia caballi in horses and donkeys. Parasit Vectors 2024; 17:160. [PMID: 38549117 PMCID: PMC10979598 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-024-06253-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2024] [Accepted: 03/20/2024] [Indexed: 04/01/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Equine piroplasmosis is caused by two tick-borne protozoan parasites, Theileria equi and Babesia caballi,, which are clinically relevant in susceptible horses, donkeys, and mules. Moreover, equine piroplasmosis significantly constrains international trading and equestrian events. Rapidly diagnosing both parasites in carrier animals is essential for implementing effective control measures. Here, a rapid immunochromatographic test for the simultaneous detection of antibodies to T. equi and B. caballi was evaluated using samples from horses and donkeys collected in Greece, Israel, and Italy. The results were compared with an improved competitive enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (cELISA) for detecting antibodies to both parasites using the same panel of samples. METHODS Blood samples were collected from 255 horses and donkeys. The panel consisted of 129 horses sampled at four locations in northern Greece, 105 donkeys sampled at four locations in Sicily, and 21 horses sampled at two locations in Israel. The rapid test and the cELISA were performed according to the manufacturer's instructions, and the results were subjected to a statistical analysis to determine the sensitivity and specificity of both tests and their association. RESULTS The immunochromatographic test provided a result within 15 min and can be performed in the field, detecting both pathogens simultaneously. The overall coincidence rate between the rapid test and the cELISA for detecting antibodies against T. equi was 93% and 92.9% for B. caballi. The rapid test's sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV), and negative predictive value (NPV) for T. equi were above 91.5%. Sixteen samples were positive for both parasites in the rapid test and eight in the cELISA. Either test had no significant association between T. equi and B. caballi detection. The detection rates of both parasites were significantly higher in Italy than in Greece or Israel and in donkeys than in horses. The agreement for T. equi between the results of both tests was high in Greece (93.8%) and Italy (95.2%) and moderate in Israel (76.2%). For B. caballi, the specificity and NPV of the rapid test were high (94.2% and 98.3%, respectively), although the sensitivity and PPV were moderate (69.2% and 39.1%, respectively) due to the small sample size. However, for B. caballi, the sensitivity was higher with the rapid test. CONCLUSIONS The rapid test detected T. equi and B. caballi simultaneously in the field, potentially replacing laborious cELISA testing and is recommended for import/export purposes. The test can also be helpful for the differential diagnosis of clinical cases, since seropositivity may rule out equine piroplasmosis since it does not indicate current or active infection.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Frans Jongejan
- Vectors and Vector-Borne Diseases Research Programme, Department of Veterinary Tropical Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Private Bag X04, Onderstepoort, 0110, Republic of South Africa.
- TBD International BV, BioScience Center, Wageningen University & Research, Runderweg 6, 8219 PK, Lelystad, The Netherlands.
| | - Cheng Du
- State Key Laboratory for Animal Disease Control and Prevention, Harbin Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Harbin, China
| | - Elias Papadopoulos
- Laboratory of Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases, School of Veterinary Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, University Campus, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Valeria Blanda
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Sicilia "A.Mirri", Palermo, Sicily, Italy
| | - Santina Di Bella
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Sicilia "A.Mirri", Palermo, Sicily, Italy
| | - Vincenza Cannella
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Sicilia "A.Mirri", Palermo, Sicily, Italy
| | - Annalisa Guercio
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Sicilia "A.Mirri", Palermo, Sicily, Italy
| | - Domenico Vicari
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Sicilia "A.Mirri", Palermo, Sicily, Italy
| | - Sharon Tirosh-Levy
- Koret School of Veterinary Medicine, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, 7610001, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Amir Steinman
- Koret School of Veterinary Medicine, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, 7610001, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Gad Baneth
- Koret School of Veterinary Medicine, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, 7610001, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Sanna van Keulen
- TBD International BV, BioScience Center, Wageningen University & Research, Runderweg 6, 8219 PK, Lelystad, The Netherlands
| | - Iris Hulsebos
- TBD International BV, BioScience Center, Wageningen University & Research, Runderweg 6, 8219 PK, Lelystad, The Netherlands
| | - Laura Berger
- TBD International BV, BioScience Center, Wageningen University & Research, Runderweg 6, 8219 PK, Lelystad, The Netherlands
| | - Xiaojun Wang
- State Key Laboratory for Animal Disease Control and Prevention, Harbin Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Harbin, China.
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Coluccia P, Gizzarelli M, Scicluna MT, Manna G, Foglia Manzillo V, Buono F, Auletta L, Palumbo V, Pasolini MP. A cross-sectional study on performance evaluation in Italian standardbred horses' real-time PCR-positive for Theileria equi. BMC Vet Res 2024; 20:79. [PMID: 38443906 PMCID: PMC10913582 DOI: 10.1186/s12917-024-03908-0] [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: 11/17/2023] [Accepted: 02/02/2024] [Indexed: 03/07/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Inflammatory myopathy and perivasculitis have been recently described in horses with chronic equine piroplasmosis (EP). These alterations may be linked to poor performances. The aims of this study were to evaluate the prevalence for EP in clinically healthy Italian Standardbred (IS) racehorses and to compare laboratory parameters and performance metrics between positive and negative horses. Real-time PCR was applied for the detection of T. equi and B. caballi positivity. Haematology parameters, blood chemistry results, subjective muscle mass scores, and performance metrics were compared between PCR-positive and -negative horses. RESULTS This cross-sectional study included 120 well-trained IS racehorses and was performed over a two-years period. The prevalence of T. equi was 36.3%, whereas all samples were negative for B. caballi. Red blood cells count, haemoglobin concentration, aspartate aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase, and gamma-glutamyl transferase activities were significantly higher in PCR-positive horses, whereas blood urea nitrogen, globulin concentration and globulin-to-albumin ratio were significantly lower in PCR-positive horses compared to PCR-negative ones. Nonetheless, all values fell within the physiological range. The best racing time, which was selected as the most representative of the performance metrics at the principal component analysis, was not affected by PCR positivity, the muscle mass score or the training yard. The best racing time was significantly better in horses with a mild or no signs of muscular atrophy, within the PCR-positive group. The muscle mass score was associated with the training yard in PCR-negative horses. CONCLUSIONS Prevalence of T. equi was high in IS racehorses in southern Italy. The absence of obvious changes in haematological and biochemical parameters, as well as performance metrics in positive horses, highlights the need for specific diagnostic tests to identify chronically infected horses.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Pierpaolo Coluccia
- Interdepartmental Center of Veterinary Radiology, University of Napoli Federico II, Via Federico Delpino 1, Napoli, 80137, Italy
| | - Manuela Gizzarelli
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Productions, University of Naples Federico II, Via Federico Delpino 1, Naples, 80137, Italy
| | - Maria Teresa Scicluna
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Lazio e della Toscana "M. Aleandri", Via Appia Nuova 1411, Rome, 00178, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Manna
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Lazio e della Toscana "M. Aleandri", Via Appia Nuova 1411, Rome, 00178, Italy
| | - Valentina Foglia Manzillo
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Productions, University of Naples Federico II, Via Federico Delpino 1, Naples, 80137, Italy
| | - Francesco Buono
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Productions, University of Naples Federico II, Via Federico Delpino 1, Naples, 80137, Italy
| | - Luigi Auletta
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences (DIVAS), University of Milano, via dell'Università 6, Lodi, 26900, Italy.
| | - Veronica Palumbo
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Productions, University of Naples Federico II, Via Federico Delpino 1, Naples, 80137, Italy
| | - Maria Pia Pasolini
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Productions, University of Naples Federico II, Via Federico Delpino 1, Naples, 80137, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Mohammad-Naseri A, Shokrani H, Rahmani-Shahraki A. Equine Piroplasmosis in Asymptomatic Horses of Western Iran: Comparison of Microscopic Examination and Multiplex PCR. Acta Parasitol 2024; 69:813-818. [PMID: 38424400 DOI: 10.1007/s11686-024-00804-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2023] [Accepted: 01/03/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE Piroplasmosis is responsible for anemia, fever, loss of physical activity and even death in equines. In epidemiological studies, accurate diagnostic tests are essential for detecting asymptomatic carriers. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence of infection in asymptomatic horses from Lorestan province, western Iran by developing a multiplex PCR. METHODS AND RESULTS Blood samples were examined by microscopy and multiplex PCR targeting the SSU rRNA gene of Theileria equi and Babesia caballi. Out of the total of 165 horses, 19 (11.51%) and 31 (18.78%) cases were positive for piroplasms by microscopy and PCR, respectively. The detection rates of both genera were significantly higher in multiplex PCR compared to microscopy (p < 0.0001). Compared with multiplex PCR, the sensitivities of microscopy for the detection of Babesia were only 28.5%. The prevalence of T. equi infection was significantly higher in summer (p = 0.035). The prevalence of B. caballi was significantly higher in males (p = 0.038). CONCLUSION Findings indicate that the multiplex PCR described here is a sensitive technique for the detection of piroplasm DNA in carriers. Furthermore, asymptomatic carriers must be considered as an important source of infection for equids living in this region.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Armin Mohammad-Naseri
- Department of Clinical Science, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Lorestan University, Khorramabad, Iran
| | - Hamidreza Shokrani
- Department of Pathobiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Lorestan University, Khorramabad, Iran.
| | - Alireza Rahmani-Shahraki
- Department of Clinical Science, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Lorestan University, Khorramabad, Iran
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Ahedor B, Otgonsuren D, Zhyldyz A, Guswanto A, Ngigi NMM, Valinotti MFR, Kothalawala H, Kalaichelvan N, Silva SSP, Kothalawala H, Acosta TJ, Sivakumar T, Yokoyama N. Development and evaluation of specific polymerase chain reaction assays for detecting Theileria equi genotypes. Parasit Vectors 2023; 16:435. [PMID: 38007442 PMCID: PMC10675911 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-023-06045-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: 08/16/2023] [Accepted: 11/06/2023] [Indexed: 11/27/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Theileria equi causes equine piroplasmosis, an economically significant disease that affects horses and other equids worldwide. Based on 18S ribosomal RNA (18S rRNA sequences), T. equi can be classified into five genotypes: A, B, C, D, and E. These genotypes have implications for disease management and control. However, no conventional polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assays are available to differentiate the genotypes of T. equi. To overcome this limitation, we developed and evaluated PCR assays specific for the detection of each T. equi genotype. METHODS A pair of forward and reverse primers, specifically targeting the 18S rRNA sequence of each genotype, was designed. The genotype-specific PCR assays were evaluated for their specificity using plasmids containing inserts of the 18S rRNA sequence of each genotype. Subsequently, the assays were tested on 270 T. equi-positive equine blood DNA samples (92 from donkeys in Sri Lanka and 178 from horses in Paraguay). 18S rRNA sequences derived from the PCR amplicons were analyzed phylogenetically. RESULTS Each genotype-specific PCR assay accurately targeted the intended genotype, and did not produce any amplicons when 18S rRNA from other T. equi genotypes or genomic DNA of Babesia caballi or uninfected horse blood was used as the template. Previous studies employing PCR sequencing methods identified T. equi genotypes C and D in the Sri Lankan samples, and genotypes A and C in the Paraguayan samples. In contrast, our PCR assay demonstrated exceptional sensitivity by detecting four genotypes (A, C, D, and E) in the Sri Lankan samples and all five genotypes in the Paraguayan samples. All the Sri Lankan samples and 93.3% of the Paraguayan samples tested positive for at least one genotype, further emphasizing the sensitivity of our assays. The PCR assays also had the ability to detect co-infections, where multiple genotypes in various combinations were detected in 90.2% and 22.5% of the Sri Lankan and Paraguayan samples, respectively. Furthermore, the sequences obtained from PCR amplicons clustered in the respective phylogenetic clades for each genotype, validating the specificity of our genotype-specific PCR assays. CONCLUSIONS The genotype-specific PCR assays developed in the present study are reliable tools for the differential detection of T. equi genotypes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Believe Ahedor
- National Research Center for Protozoan Diseases, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Inada-Cho, Obihiro, Hokkaido, 080-8555, Japan
- Department of Animal Experimentation, Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
| | - Davaajav Otgonsuren
- National Research Center for Protozoan Diseases, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Inada-Cho, Obihiro, Hokkaido, 080-8555, Japan
| | - Atambekova Zhyldyz
- National Research Center for Protozoan Diseases, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Inada-Cho, Obihiro, Hokkaido, 080-8555, Japan
| | - Azirwan Guswanto
- National Research Center for Protozoan Diseases, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Inada-Cho, Obihiro, Hokkaido, 080-8555, Japan
| | - Noel Muthoni Mumbi Ngigi
- National Research Center for Protozoan Diseases, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Inada-Cho, Obihiro, Hokkaido, 080-8555, Japan
| | | | | | - Nizanantha Kalaichelvan
- Department of Farm Animal Production and Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of Peradeniya, Peradeniya, Sri Lanka
| | | | | | - Tomás Javier Acosta
- Universidad Nacional de Canendiyu, Salto del Guaira, Paraguay
- Field Center of Animal Science and Agriculture, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro, Hokkaido, Japan
| | - Thillaiampalam Sivakumar
- National Research Center for Protozoan Diseases, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Inada-Cho, Obihiro, Hokkaido, 080-8555, Japan
| | - Naoaki Yokoyama
- National Research Center for Protozoan Diseases, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Inada-Cho, Obihiro, Hokkaido, 080-8555, Japan.
- WOAH Reference Laboratory for Equine Piroplasmosis, National Research Center for Protozoan Diseases, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro, Hokkaido, Japan.
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Elsawy BSM, Mahmoud MS, Suarez CE, Alzan HF. Impact of Equine and Camel Piroplasmosis in Egypt: How Much Do We Know about the Current Situation? Pathogens 2023; 12:1318. [PMID: 38003783 PMCID: PMC10675018 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens12111318] [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: 09/30/2023] [Revised: 10/29/2023] [Accepted: 11/01/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Piroplasmosis is a global tick-borne disease caused by hemoprotozoan parasites, which causes high morbidity and substantial economic losses in farm animals. Equine and camel piroplasmosis causes significant losses worldwide and in Egypt. The multifactorial effects and overall impact of equine and camel piroplasmosis in Egypt remain poorly characterized. However, several Babesia and Theileria spp. as well as potential tick vectors affecting these two species have been identified in the country. Equine and camel piroplasmosis has been reported by all governates in the country. Thus, in this work, we intend to provide a broad depiction of the current approaches used for diagnosis and control and the impact of piroplasmosis on the equine and camel industries in Egypt. We also identified current gaps in knowledge that might help develop future research efforts towards improved intervention and control of equine and camel piroplasmosis. It is important to develop specific diagnostic tools suitable for the early and chronic diagnosis of this disease. Altogether, the current situation warrants the development of large-scale epidemiological studies in order to obtain an accurate estimate for equine and camel piroplasmosis to secure the highly needed food resources in the country.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bassma S. M. Elsawy
- Parasitology and Animal Diseases Department, Veterinary Research Institute, National Research Center Dokki, Giza 12622, Egypt; (B.S.M.E.); (M.S.M.)
- Tick and Tick-Borne Diseases Research Unit, Veterinary Research Institute, National Research Center Dokki, Giza 12622, Egypt
| | - Mona S. Mahmoud
- Parasitology and Animal Diseases Department, Veterinary Research Institute, National Research Center Dokki, Giza 12622, Egypt; (B.S.M.E.); (M.S.M.)
- Tick and Tick-Borne Diseases Research Unit, Veterinary Research Institute, National Research Center Dokki, Giza 12622, Egypt
| | - Carlos E. Suarez
- Department of Veterinary Microbiology and Pathology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Washington State University, Pullman, WA 99164, USA
- Animal Disease Research Unit, United States Department of Agricultural—Agricultural Research Service, Pullman, WA 99164, USA;
| | - Heba F. Alzan
- Parasitology and Animal Diseases Department, Veterinary Research Institute, National Research Center Dokki, Giza 12622, Egypt; (B.S.M.E.); (M.S.M.)
- Tick and Tick-Borne Diseases Research Unit, Veterinary Research Institute, National Research Center Dokki, Giza 12622, Egypt
- Department of Veterinary Microbiology and Pathology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Washington State University, Pullman, WA 99164, USA
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Jaimes-Dueñez J, Jiménez-Leaño Á, Enrique-Niño S, Arias-Landazábal N, Bedoya-Ríos M, Rangel-Pachón D. Clinical and epidemiological aspects of the infection by Babesia, Theileria and Trypanosoma species in horses from northeastern Colombia. Ticks Tick Borne Dis 2023; 14:102208. [PMID: 37348426 DOI: 10.1016/j.ttbdis.2023.102208] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2022] [Revised: 05/06/2023] [Accepted: 06/01/2023] [Indexed: 06/24/2023]
Abstract
Piroplasmosis and trypanosomiasis are debilitating diseases of great economic impact on the equine industry of Latin America. Considering the lack of studies in the northeastern part of Colombia, this study aimed to determine the epidemiological, clinical and genetic features associated with infection of the Babesia, Theileria, and Trypanosoma species in horses from this geographical area. Two hundred and eighty horses from the Arauca, Meta, and Santander departments were molecularly analyzed for infection with Babesia caballi, Theileria equi, Trypanosoma evansi, and Trypanosoma vivax. Furthermore, clinical, epidemiological and entomological analyses were performed on the data sets. Molecular analysis showed 25.7% and 3.9% prevalence for T. equi and T. evansi, respectively, without positive animals for B. caballi and T. vivax. There were no differences in the prevalence of T. equi between departments, whereas T. evansi was detected exclusively in Santander. A total of 633 ticks were collected from 72 horses across the three departments, with 84.7% corresponding to Dermacentor nitens, 10.9% to Amblyomma cajennense (sensu lato) (s.l). and 4.4% to Rhipicephalus microplus. For T. equi, genetic analyses showed that Colombian isolates belong to genotype C of species, along with sequences of Brazil and Mexico. Epidemiological analysis revealed a significant association between tick infestation and lack of vector control with molecular infection of T. equi, whereas clinical analysis revealed a significant reduction in packed cell volume, red blood cells, and mean corpuscular volume in positive animals to this pathogen. Furthermore, molecular infection by T. evansi was associated with epidemiological characteristics in the Santander department. In conclusion, our analysis revealed a moderate infection rate by T. equi of genotype C in horses from northeastern Colombia, which affects their clinical conditions. Control of ticks and treatment of symptomatic animals should be considered to reduce the economic impact associated with these infections in the equine industry.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jeiczon Jaimes-Dueñez
- Grupo de Investigación en Ciencias Animales GRICA, Facultad de Medicina Veterinaria y Zootecnia, Universidad Cooperativa de Colombia UCC, Bucaramanga, Colombia.
| | - Ángela Jiménez-Leaño
- Grupo de Investigación en Ciencias Animales GRICA, Facultad de Medicina Veterinaria y Zootecnia, Universidad Cooperativa de Colombia UCC, Bucaramanga, Colombia
| | - Samuel Enrique-Niño
- Grupo de Investigación en Ciencias Animales GRICA, Facultad de Medicina Veterinaria y Zootecnia, Universidad Cooperativa de Colombia UCC, Bucaramanga, Colombia
| | - Norberto Arias-Landazábal
- Grupo de Investigación en Ciencias Animales GRICA, Facultad de Medicina Veterinaria y Zootecnia, Universidad Cooperativa de Colombia UCC, Bucaramanga, Colombia
| | - Miguel Bedoya-Ríos
- Grupo de Investigación en Ciencias Animales GRICA, Facultad de Medicina Veterinaria y Zootecnia, Universidad Cooperativa de Colombia UCC, Bucaramanga, Colombia
| | - David Rangel-Pachón
- Grupo de Investigación en Ciencias Animales GRICA, Facultad de Medicina Veterinaria y Zootecnia, Universidad Cooperativa de Colombia UCC, Bucaramanga, Colombia
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Dorrego A, Camino E, Gago P, Buendia-Andres A, Acurio K, Gonzalez S, de Juan L, Cruz-Lopez F. Haemato-biochemical characterization of equine piroplasmosis asymptomatic carriers and seropositive, real-time PCR negative horses. Vet Parasitol 2023; 323:110046. [PMID: 37826971 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2023.110046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2023] [Revised: 10/04/2023] [Accepted: 10/04/2023] [Indexed: 10/14/2023]
Abstract
Equine piroplasmosis (EP) is caused by Theileria equi and Babesia caballi, transmitted by tick vectors. Horses can suffer an acute, subacute, and chronic forms of the disease, with clinical signs such as poor performance, fever, pale mucosal membranes, and jaundice. The diagnosis of EP subclinical cases is complex due to the sensitivity of real-time PCR and the limited parasite load in some carriers, making it challenging to differentiate them from seropositive, PCR negative (S+PCR-) individuals. This study aimed to describe haematological and biochemical changes in asymptomatic EP carriers, EP S+PCR- horses and control horses (EP seronegative and PCR negative). It also investigated potential haemato-biochemical markers to aid in distinguishing true EP carriers alongside molecular and serological tests. A comprehensive haematology and biochemistry profile was conducted on 410 sera and EDTA blood samples, comprising 130 EP positives by real-time PCR and competitive ELISA (cELISA) (carriers), 130 EP negatives by real-time PCR but positive to cELISA (S+PCR-) and 150 EP negative horses to real-time PCR and c-ELISA (controls). Our study confirmed that a haematological and biochemistry profile could help to differentiate between EP carriers/S+PCR- from healthy horses. Carriers and S+PCR- horses showed significant increases in the white blood cell count (WBC), high total proteins (TP) and total globulins (GLOB) concentration, and liver function markers compared to controls. Additionally, the evaluation of uric acid (UA) suggested oxidative stress in carrier horses. However, no useful haemato-biochemical diagnostic markers were identified to aid the challenging differentiation of EP carriers and S+PCR- horses, highlighting the need for improvement in molecular/serological diagnosis for these horses.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Abel Dorrego
- VISAVET Health Surveillance Centre, Universidad Complutense, Madrid, Spain
| | | | - Paloma Gago
- VISAVET Health Surveillance Centre, Universidad Complutense, Madrid, Spain; Animal Health Department, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad Complutense, Madrid, Spain
| | | | - Kiara Acurio
- VISAVET Health Surveillance Centre, Universidad Complutense, Madrid, Spain
| | - Sergio Gonzalez
- VISAVET Health Surveillance Centre, Universidad Complutense, Madrid, Spain
| | - Lucia de Juan
- VISAVET Health Surveillance Centre, Universidad Complutense, Madrid, Spain; Animal Health Department, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad Complutense, Madrid, Spain
| | - Fatima Cruz-Lopez
- VISAVET Health Surveillance Centre, Universidad Complutense, Madrid, Spain.
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
AIDA H, FOREMAN JH, OCHI A, TAKIZAWA Y, YAMANAKA T. A case of equine piroplasmosis in the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games. J Equine Sci 2023; 34:93-99. [PMID: 37781566 PMCID: PMC10534063 DOI: 10.1294/jes.34.93] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2022] [Accepted: 04/04/2023] [Indexed: 10/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Equine piroplasmosis is an infectious disease caused by Babesia caballi and Theileria equi. A competition horse that had been imported to the Equestrian Park for the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games and had a fever over 40°C and severe anemia was diagnosed with equine piroplasmosis by blood smear and direct polymerase chain reaction (PCR) tests for Theileria equi. Treatment with protozoan anthelmintics and whole blood transfusion diminished the fever, improved the anemia, and allowed the horse to return home safely. Preparation for routine cases of this infection should include the development of a system that allows accurate and prompt international dissemination of information and implementation of quarantine measures.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hiroko AIDA
- Equine Department, Japan Racing Association,
Tokyo 105-0003, Japan
| | - Jonathan H. FOREMAN
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Medicine,
College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois, Urbana, IL 61802,
USA
| | - Akihiro OCHI
- Equine Research Institute, Japan Racing
Association, Tochigi 329-0412, Japan
| | | | - Takashi YAMANAKA
- Equine Research Institute, Japan Racing
Association, Tochigi 329-0412, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Pereira MR, Trein CR, Webster A, Dallagnol B, Gonchoroski GZ, Pellegrini DP, Doyle R, Klafke G, Reck J. Comparison of Seroprevalence and Identification of Risk Factors for Theileria equi in Horses From Vector-Free and Infested Areas in Southern Brazil. J Equine Vet Sci 2023; 126:104241. [PMID: 36773853 DOI: 10.1016/j.jevs.2023.104241] [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: 09/22/2022] [Revised: 12/20/2022] [Accepted: 02/06/2023] [Indexed: 02/12/2023]
Abstract
The apicomplexan hemoprotozoan Theileria equi is a tick-borne pathogen that causes disease in equids, and together with Babesia caballi, causes equine piroplasmosis (EP). Many ticks are associated with EP around the world, and in South America three species may be related: Dermacentor nitens, Amblyomma sculptum, and Rhipicephalus microplus, as they are commonly found in horses. Among the species cited above, only R. microplus is found in Rio Grande do Sul state, Southern Brazil. In addition, this state has the only area legally free of R. microplus in Brazil. This study aimed to compare the seroprevalence for T. equi on farms located in a tick-free area (23 farms, 215 horses) and a tick-infested (25 farms, 141 horses) adjacent areas, as well as to identify potential risk factors for exposure to T. equi. Blood was collected from 356 horses from both areas, and later an indirect enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay was performed to detect anti-T. equi antibodies. Besides the blood collection, questionnaires and interviews were conducted in an attempt to identify potential risk factors. The R. microplus-free zone had 6% seropositive horses against 70% in the tick-infested zone. Previous observation of ticks on horses of the herd increased four times the odds of a horse to be seropositive for T. equi, and by three times if ticks were observed on cattle which share paddocks with horses on the farm. The results showed a large difference in T. equi seroprevalence between tick-infested and free areas, and also emphasized the relevance of R. microplus in the epidemiology of T. equi. The study also reveals the potential of the establishment of a T. equi-free zone for horse breeding in Southern Brazil.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marco Rocha Pereira
- Centro de Pesquisa em Saúde Animal, Instituto de Pesquisas Veterinárias Desidério Finamor (IPVDF), Eldorado do Sul, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Cristina Rodrigues Trein
- Departamento de Vigilância e Defesa Sanitária Animal (DDA), Secretaria da Agricultura, Pecuária e Desenvolvimento Rural (SEAPDR) do Rio Grande do Sul, Santa Vitória do Palmar, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Anelise Webster
- Centro de Pesquisa em Saúde Animal, Instituto de Pesquisas Veterinárias Desidério Finamor (IPVDF), Eldorado do Sul, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Bruno Dallagnol
- Centro de Pesquisa em Saúde Animal, Instituto de Pesquisas Veterinárias Desidério Finamor (IPVDF), Eldorado do Sul, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Greice Zorzato Gonchoroski
- Centro de Pesquisa em Saúde Animal, Instituto de Pesquisas Veterinárias Desidério Finamor (IPVDF), Eldorado do Sul, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Débora Payão Pellegrini
- Curso de Medicina Veterinária, Universidade Federal do Pampa (UNIPAMPA), Uruguaiana, RS Brazil
| | - Rovaina Doyle
- Centro de Pesquisa em Saúde Animal, Instituto de Pesquisas Veterinárias Desidério Finamor (IPVDF), Eldorado do Sul, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Guilherme Klafke
- Centro de Pesquisa em Saúde Animal, Instituto de Pesquisas Veterinárias Desidério Finamor (IPVDF), Eldorado do Sul, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - José Reck
- Centro de Pesquisa em Saúde Animal, Instituto de Pesquisas Veterinárias Desidério Finamor (IPVDF), Eldorado do Sul, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil.
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Malgwi SA, Ogunsakin RE, Oladepo AD, Adeleke MA, Okpeku M. A Forty-Year Analysis of the Literature on Babesia Infection (1982-2022): A Systematic Bibliometric Approach. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:6156. [PMID: 37372744 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20126156] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2023] [Revised: 05/14/2023] [Accepted: 06/13/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023]
Abstract
Babesia infection is a tick-borne protozoan disease associated with significant veterinary, economic, and medical importance. This infection affects many hosts, ranging from wild to domestic animals and including man. All vertebrates serve as potential carriers due to the huge diversity of the species. Babesiosis has been associated with severe economic loss in livestock production, especially in cattle farming, and is also a major public health concern in man, which could be fatal. The infection is usually opportunistic, ranging from asymptomatic to symptomatic, usually in immunocompromised subjects or under conditions of stressful management. This study was designed to uncover trends in relation to publication growth and further explore research output regarding babesiosis from data indexed in the WoS. The WoS is the only platform used to map publications on Babesia infection. The search term "babesiosis" or "Babesia infection" was used to extract articles published across the study period from 1982 to 2022. The inclusion criteria were restricted to only articles for the analysis. The results from the search query showed that a total of 3763 articles were published during the study period with an average of 91.70 ± 43.87 articles annually and an average total citation (n = 1874.8). An annual growth rate of 2.5% was recorded during the study period. The year 2021 had the highest number of published articles (n = 193, 5.1%) and citations (n = 7039). The analysis of the most relevant keywords and titles showed that infection (n = 606, 16.1%), babesiosis (n = 444, 11.7%), and Babesia (n = 1302, 16%) were the most relevant keyword plus (ID), author keyword (DE), and title, respectively. The common conceptual framework analysis through K-means clustering showed two clusters comprising 4 and 41 elements, respectively. The United States of America is the top-performing country in terms of article production (n = 707, 20.8%) and the leading funder for babesiosis research, with two of its agencies ranked at the top. These are the Department of Health and Human Services (n = 254, 6.7%) and the National Institute of Health (n= 238,6.3%). Igarashi I. is the top-performing author (n = 231, 6.1%), while Veterinary Parasitology is ranked the top journal (n = 393, 10.4%) in terms of babesiosis publications. Overall, an increase in publications was observed in the study period, with significant output from developed nations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Samson Anjikwi Malgwi
- Discipline of Genetics, School of Life Sciences, University of Kwa-Zulu Natal, Westville, Durban 4000, South Africa
| | - Ropo Ebenezer Ogunsakin
- Biostatistics Unit, Discipline of Public Health Medicine, School of Nursing & Public Health, College of Health Sciences, University of Kwa-Zulu Natal, Durban 4000, South Africa
| | - Abolade David Oladepo
- Discipline of Genetics, School of Life Sciences, University of Kwa-Zulu Natal, Westville, Durban 4000, South Africa
| | - Matthew Adekunle Adeleke
- Discipline of Genetics, School of Life Sciences, University of Kwa-Zulu Natal, Westville, Durban 4000, South Africa
| | - Moses Okpeku
- Discipline of Genetics, School of Life Sciences, University of Kwa-Zulu Natal, Westville, Durban 4000, South Africa
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Zhang Y, Shi Q, Laven R, Li C, He W, Zheng H, Liu S, Lu M, Yang DA, Guo Q, Chahan B. Prevalence and genetic diversity of Theileria equi from horses in Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous region, China. Ticks Tick Borne Dis 2023; 14:102193. [PMID: 37150103 DOI: 10.1016/j.ttbdis.2023.102193] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2022] [Revised: 04/19/2023] [Accepted: 04/23/2023] [Indexed: 05/09/2023]
Abstract
Theileria equi is a tick-borne intracellular apicomplexan protozoan parasite that causes equine theileriosis (ET). ET is an economically important disease with a worldwide distribution that significantly impacts international horse movement. Horses are an essential part of the economy in Xinjiang which is home to ∼10% of all the horses in China. However, there is very limited information on the prevalence and genetic complexity of T. equi in this region. Blood samples from 302 horses were collected from May to September 2021 in Ili, Xinjiang, and subjected to PCR examination for the presence of T. equi. In addition, a Bayesian latent class model was employed to estimate the true prevalence of T. equi, and a phylogenetic analysis was carried out based on the 18S rRNA gene of T. equi isolates. Seventy-two horses (23.8%) were PCR positive. After accounting for the imperfect PCR test using a Bayesian latent class model, the estimated true prevalence differed considerably between age groups, being 10.8% (95%CrI: 5.8% - 17.9%) in ≤ 3-year-old horses and 35.7% (95%CrI: 28.1% - 44.5%) in horses that were > 3 year-old. All T. equi isolates had their 18S rRNA gene (430bp) sequenced and analyzed in order to identify whether there were multiple genotypes of T. equi in the Xinjiang horse population. All of the 18S rRNA genes clustered into one phylogenetic group, clade E, which is thus probably the dominant genotype of T. equi in Xinjiang, China. To summarize, we monitored the prevalence of T. equi in horses of Xinjiang, China, with a focus on the association between age and the occurrence of T. equi by Bayesian modelling, accompanied by the genotyping of T. equi isolates. Obtaining the information on genotypes and age structure is significant in monitoring the spread of T. equi and studying the factors responsible for the distribution.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yang Zhang
- Laboratory of Parasitology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Xinjiang Agricultural University, Urumqi, Xinjiang 830052, China.
| | - Qianyun Shi
- Laboratory of Parasitology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Xinjiang Agricultural University, Urumqi, Xinjiang 830052, China
| | - Richard Laven
- School of Veterinary Science, Massey University, Palmerston North 4474, New Zealand
| | - Caishan Li
- Laboratory of Parasitology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Xinjiang Agricultural University, Urumqi, Xinjiang 830052, China
| | - Wenwen He
- Laboratory of Parasitology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Xinjiang Agricultural University, Urumqi, Xinjiang 830052, China
| | - Huizhen Zheng
- Laboratory of Parasitology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Xinjiang Agricultural University, Urumqi, Xinjiang 830052, China
| | - Shifang Liu
- Yunnan Branch, Institute of Medicinal Plant Development, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences&Peking Union Medical College, Jinghong, Yunnan 661000, China
| | - Mingmin Lu
- MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210095, China.
| | - Danchen Aaron Yang
- MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210095, China.
| | - Qingyong Guo
- Laboratory of Parasitology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Xinjiang Agricultural University, Urumqi, Xinjiang 830052, China
| | - Bayin Chahan
- Laboratory of Parasitology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Xinjiang Agricultural University, Urumqi, Xinjiang 830052, China
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Rizk MA, El-Sayed SAES, El-Alfy ES, Igarashi I. Imidazo[1,2-a]pyridine: a Highly Potent Therapeutic Agent Clears Piroplasm Infection In Vitro. Acta Parasitol 2023; 68:249-256. [PMID: 36637693 DOI: 10.1007/s11686-022-00655-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2022] [Accepted: 12/13/2022] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE The imidazo[1,2-a] pyridines have huge applications in medicinal chemistry with potent activity against wide spectrum of infectious agents. The efficacy of imidazo[1,2-a]pyridine on the in vitro growth of different piroplasms, including Babesia bovis, B. bigemina, B. divergens, B. caballi, and Theileria equi, was investigated in this study. METHODS The anti-piroplasm efficacy of imidazo[1,2-a] pyridines was assessed using a fluorescence-based SYBR Green I assay. Furthermore, efficacy of imidazo[1,2-a]pyridine against piroplasms following discontinuation of treatment was also assessed using a viability assay. In vitro cultures of B. bovis and T. equi were used to assess the imidazo[1,2-a]pyridine and diminazene aceturate (DA) interaction. RESULTS In vitro, imidazo[1,2-a]pyridine inhibited the growth of B. bovis, B. bigemina, B. caballi, and T. equi in a dose-dependent manner. The highest inhibitory effects of imidazo[1,2-a]pyridine were detected on the growth of B. caballi with IC50 value of 0.47 ± 0.07. Interestingly, the efficacy of imidazo[1,2-a]pyridine was higher against B. bigemina (IC50: 1.37 ± 0.15) compared to the positive-control DA (IC50: 2.29 ± 0.06). The viability test findings indicate that imidazo[1,2-a]pyridine had a long-lasting inhibitory effect on bovine Babesia parasites in vitro growth up to 4 days after treatment. Notably, when coupled with DA at 0.75 or 0.50 IC50, a high concentration (0.75 IC50) of imidazo[1,2-a]pyridine produced additive suppression of B. bovis growth which suggest that imidazo[1,2-a]pyridine/DA could be a promising combination therapy for the treatment of B. bovis. CONCLUSION The obtained encouraging findings pave the way for in vitro and in vivo efficacy trials of imidazo[1,2-a]pyridine derivatives against several piroplasmids.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mohamed Abdo Rizk
- National Research Center for Protozoan Diseases, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Inada-Cho, Obihiro, Hokkaido, 080-8555, Japan. .,Department of Internal Medicine and Infectious Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura, 35516, Egypt.
| | - Shimaa Abd El-Salam El-Sayed
- National Research Center for Protozoan Diseases, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Inada-Cho, Obihiro, Hokkaido, 080-8555, Japan. .,Department of Biochemistry and Chemistry of Nutrition, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura, 35516, Egypt.
| | - El-Sayed El-Alfy
- Parasitology Department, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura, 35516, Egypt
| | - Ikuo Igarashi
- National Research Center for Protozoan Diseases, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Inada-Cho, Obihiro, Hokkaido, 080-8555, Japan.
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Chisu V, Serra E, Foxi C, Chessa G, Masala G. Molecular Investigation of Theileria and Babesia Species in Domestic Mammals from Sardinia, Italy. Vet Sci 2023; 10:vetsci10010059. [PMID: 36669060 PMCID: PMC9865784 DOI: 10.3390/vetsci10010059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2022] [Revised: 12/28/2022] [Accepted: 01/12/2023] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Piroplasmoses are tick-borne diseases caused by hemoprotozoan parasites of veterinary and public health significance. This study focuses on the molecular identification and characterization of species belonging to the Theileria/Babesia genera in 152 blood samples, collected from 80 horses and 72 cattle from several farms in Sardinia, by targeting the 18S rRNA gene. The PCR results highlighted that 72% of the samples were positive for Theileria/Babesia spp., with a rate of infection of 68% and 75% for the horses and cattle, respectively. Sequencing and the BLASTn analysis showed that the 18S rRNA generated in this study has 99-100% homology with the B. bigemina, T. orientalis/sergenti/buffeli, T. equi and T. annulata strains isolated from different hosts worldwide. These findings improve the knowledge on Babesia and Theileria infections in domestic mammals and confirm the significant prevalence of piroplasmosis among subclinical and carrier animals throughout the island. Furthermore, the presence of T. annulata, reported for the first time in the study area, expands the repertoire of pathogens already detected in Sardinia. Our results gather updates on the diversity and distribution of piroplasms in Sardinia and suggest the need to develop procedures to improve animal and public health safety.
Collapse
|
26
|
Yang G, Zhou B, Chen K, Hu Z, Guo W, Wang X, Du C. Diagnostic Performance of Competitive ELISA and Western Blot Methods for the Detection of Antibodies against Theileria equi and Babesia caballi. Microorganisms 2022; 11:microorganisms11010021. [PMID: 36677312 PMCID: PMC9862631 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms11010021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2022] [Revised: 12/18/2022] [Accepted: 12/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Theileria equi (T. equi) and Babesia caballi (B. caballi) are the causative pathogens of Equine piroplasmosis (EP), a disease that has brought huge economic losses and great restrictions to the global equine industry. Rapid and accurate diagnostic methods are critical for the effective monitoring of the disease. In this study, we developed novel competitive ELISA methods and western blot assays based on the EMA1 or Bc48 proteins to detect antibodies against T. equi or B. caballi, respectively. In the novel cELISA, horseradish peroxidase (HRP)-labeled monoclonal antibodies are used in place of enzyme-conjugated secondary antibodies, in order to speed up the entire procedure. These methods have high sensitivity and no cross-reactivity with antibodies against other equine diseases. In the newly developed western blot assays, we optimized the dilution of T. equi or B. caballi positive serum samples to 1:200. Compared with the commercially available kit, both the novel cELISA assay and the western blot assay showed high coincidence rates in detecting antibodies against T. equi and B. caballi. Taken together, the novel cELISA and the western blot assays for detecting antibodies against T. equi or B. caballi have the potential to rapidly test for T. equi or B. caballi and to contribute to the surveillance and control of this disease.
Collapse
|
27
|
Kumar B, Maharana BR, Thakre B, Brahmbhatt NN, Joseph JP. 18S rRNA Gene-Based Piroplasmid PCR: An Assay for Rapid and Precise Molecular Screening of Theileria and Babesia Species in Animals. Acta Parasitol 2022. [PMID: 36178614 DOI: 10.1007/s11686-022-00625] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE The parasites of genera such as Babesia and Theileria are called piroplasmids due to the pear-shaped morphology of the multiplying parasite stages in the blood of the vertebrate host. Because of the enormous number of parasite species and the challenges of multiplex PCR, initial screening of samples using piroplasmid-specific PCR may be a more cost-effective and efficient technique to identify parasite species, especially during epidemiological studies. Accordingly, 18S rRNA PCR was standardized and optimized on common piroplasmids of different animals like cattle, buffaloes, sheep, goats, dogs, horses, and leopards. METHODS Bloods samples from 1250 animals were collected from different animals in Junagadh district of Gujarat, India. 18S rRNA PCR was standardized and optimized as a primary method for molecular screening of piroplasms in domestic and wild animals. The method was checked for its analytical sensitivity and specificity. Parasite species-specific PCR and sequencing was used to validate the test. Moreover, in-silico restriction enzyme (RE) analysis was also done to assess its applicability in PCR-RFLP. RESULTS Piroplasm infections were recorded in 63.3% of animals in Junagadh. The 18S rRNA PCR detected the piroplasmid DNA in as low as 39 picograms (pg) of whole blood genomic DNA isolated from microscopically Theileria positive blood samples and no reactivity was recorded from common but unrelated haemoparasites viz., Trypanosoma evansi, Hepatozoon spp., Anaplasma spp., and Ehrlichia canis was observed. The 18S rRNA PCR assay findings were confirmed by species-specific PCR and sequencing. Analysis of different sequences generated using 18S rRNA PCR revealed that the amplicon size of Babesia spp. is nearly 400 bp (393-408 bp) whereas Theileria spp. were more than 400 bp (418-424 bp). The percentage of sequence divergence among Babesia and Theileria spp. was 7.3-12.2% and 0.7-12.2%, respectively. In-silico restriction enzyme (RE) analysis reveals the presence of at least one site for a commercially available RE in 18S rRNA fragments of every parasite, which can differentiate it from its congeners. CONCLUSIONS The presented universal oligonucleotide-based PCR assay provides a highly sensitive, specific, cost-effective, and rapid diagnostic tool for the initial screening of piroplasmids infecting domestic and wild animals and is potentially helpful for large-scale epidemiological studies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Binod Kumar
- Department of Veterinary Parasitology, College of Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry, Kamdhenu University, Junagadh, Gujarat, 362001, India.
| | - Biswa Ranjan Maharana
- Referral Veterinary Diagnostic and Extension Centre, LUVAS, Uchani, Karnal, 132001, India
| | - Bhupendrakumar Thakre
- Department of Veterinary Parasitology, College of Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry, Kamdhenu University, Junagadh, Gujarat, 362001, India
| | - Nilima N Brahmbhatt
- Animal Diseases Diagnostic Laboratory, Veterinary Clinical Complex, College of Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry, Kamdhenu University, Junagadh, Gujarat, 362001, India
| | - Joice P Joseph
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, College of Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry, Kamdhenu University, Junagadh, Gujarat, 362001, India
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Villanueva-Saz S, Borobia M, Fernández A, Jiménez C, Yzuel A, Verde MT, Ramo MÁ, Figueras L, Ruíz H. Anaemia in Sheep Caused by Babesia and Theileria Haemoparasites. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:ani12233341. [PMID: 36496866 PMCID: PMC9738125 DOI: 10.3390/ani12233341] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2022] [Revised: 11/23/2022] [Accepted: 11/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Piroplasmoses in sheep are caused by vector-borne apicomplexan protozoa, Babesia and Theileria. Different species are responsible for the disease; some species are more pathogenic than others and have a worldwide distribution. In this sense, these causative agents can cause anaemia in flocks. In general, these vector-borne diseases infect small ruminants and cause host-mediated pathology. In the case of Babesia species, a combination of different mechanisms is involved: red blood cell lysis due to intracellular parasite multiplication, activation of biogenic amines and the coagulation system with the possibility of disseminated intravascular coagulation. By contrast, less information is available on the different immunopathogenic mechanisms involved in the development of anaemia in sheep with theileriosis. However, the mechanisms of pathogenic action in theileriosis are similar to those studied in babesiosis. Diagnosis is based on compatible clinical signs, laboratory findings, specific diagnostic tests and the presence of the tick vector. Some of these tests detect the causative agent itself, such as direct identification by light microscopy and molecular analysis. In contrast, other tests detect the sheep's immune response to the organism by serology. Both diseases pose a significant diagnostic challenge for veterinary practitioners around the world. This review presents the most frequent clinical signs, pathogenesis and clinicopathological findings, diagnosis.
Collapse
|
29
|
Nardini R, Cersini A, Bartolomé Del Pino LE, Manna G, Scarpulla M, Di Egidio A, Giordani R, Antognetti V, Veneziano V, Scicluna MT. Comparison of direct and indirect methods to maximise the detection of Babesia caballi and Theileria equi infections in Central Southern Italy. Ticks Tick Borne Dis 2022; 13:101939. [PMID: 35474261 DOI: 10.1016/j.ttbdis.2022.101939] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2019] [Revised: 02/24/2022] [Accepted: 03/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Equine piroplasmosis is a disease of equids, caused by tick-borne apicomplexan protozoan pathogens Babesia caballi and Theileria equi, which, according to the World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE), can be diagnosed by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), immunofluorescent antibody test (IFAT) and polymerase chain reaction (PCR). The present study was conducted to evaluate and compare the assays available for the diagnosis of equine piroplasmosis. Data employed were obtained from 1300 blood samples collected between 2012-2014 from asymptomatic and symptomatic equines (horses and donkeys) of central-southern regions of Italy and analyzed by ELISA, IFAT, PCR (one commercial and one from literature) and blood smear microscopic examination. Statistical differences of the proportions of positivity for each parasite and group (asymptomatic and symptomatic) among the methods were verified by the z test to identify the most sensitive. The concordance between each pair of methods - for each parasite and within the groups - and trends in detection of suspect samples of four hypothetical diagnostic algorithms using serological and biomolecular assays were evaluated to identify the most suitable laboratory diagnostic workflow. The results of this study highlighted a lower capacity to detect suspect samples of commercial ELISA for B. caballi in all groups when compared to biomolecular methods and IFAT; and of the commercial PCRs in asymptomatic animals, identifying a PCR from literature and IFAT as the best choice for a combined diagnosis. For T. equi, IFAT detected more suspect samples than ELISA, even if the latter showed good performance and some samples were positive only by the ELISA and PCR, indicating that their simultaneous employment is still advantageous. Host-parasite interaction, amino-acid/genetic diversity and differences in detection limits among the assays could be among the reasons in explaining the present results. In view of further studies, ELISA should be used in combination with PCR, that should regularly be included in the laboratory diagnosis to maximise the detection of early infections and support the evaluation of pharmacological treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Roberto Nardini
- National Reference Centre for Equine Diseases, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Lazio e della Toscana "M. Aleandri", Via Appia Nuova 1411, Rome 00178, Italy
| | - Antonella Cersini
- National Reference Centre for Equine Diseases, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Lazio e della Toscana "M. Aleandri", Via Appia Nuova 1411, Rome 00178, Italy
| | | | - Giuseppe Manna
- National Reference Centre for Equine Diseases, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Lazio e della Toscana "M. Aleandri", Via Appia Nuova 1411, Rome 00178, Italy
| | - Manuela Scarpulla
- National Reference Centre for Equine Diseases, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Lazio e della Toscana "M. Aleandri", Via Appia Nuova 1411, Rome 00178, Italy
| | - Alessandra Di Egidio
- National Reference Centre for Equine Diseases, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Lazio e della Toscana "M. Aleandri", Via Appia Nuova 1411, Rome 00178, Italy
| | - Roberta Giordani
- National Reference Centre for Equine Diseases, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Lazio e della Toscana "M. Aleandri", Via Appia Nuova 1411, Rome 00178, Italy
| | - Valeria Antognetti
- National Reference Centre for Equine Diseases, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Lazio e della Toscana "M. Aleandri", Via Appia Nuova 1411, Rome 00178, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Veneziano
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Productions, University of Naples Federico II, Via F. Delpino 1, Naples 80137, Italy
| | - Maria Teresa Scicluna
- National Reference Centre for Equine Diseases, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Lazio e della Toscana "M. Aleandri", Via Appia Nuova 1411, Rome 00178, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Sultankulova KT, Shynybekova GO, Issabek AU, Mukhami NN, Melisbek AM, Chervyakova OV, Kozhabergenov NS, Barmak SM, Bopi AK, Omarova ZD, Alibekova DA, Argimbayeva TU, Namet AM, Zuban IA, Orynbayev MB. The Prevalence of Pathogens among Ticks Collected from Livestock in Kazakhstan. Pathogens 2022; 11:pathogens11101206. [PMID: 36297263 PMCID: PMC9611691 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens11101206] [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: 09/01/2022] [Revised: 10/14/2022] [Accepted: 10/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Ticks carry and transmit a wide variety of pathogens (bacteria, viruses and protozoa) that pose a threat to humans and animals worldwide. The purpose of this work was to study ticks collected in different regions of Kazakhstan for the carriage of various pathogens. The collected ticks were examined by PCR for the carriage of various pathogens. A total of 3341 tick samples parasitizing three animal species (cattle, sheep and horses) were collected at eight regions of Kazakhstan. Eight tick species were found infesting animals: Dermacentor marginatus (28.08%), Hyalomma asiaticum (21.28%), Hyalomma anatolicum (17.18%), Dermacentor reticulatus (2.01%), Ixodes ricinus (3.35%), Ixodes persulcatus (0.33%), Hyalomma scupense (12.87%) and Hyalomma marginatum (14.90%). Ticks collected from livestock animals were examined for the pathogen spectrum of transmissible infections to determine the degree of their infection. Four pathogen DNAs (lumpy skin disease virus (LSDV), Coxiella burnetti, Teileria annulata, and Babesia caballi) were detected by PCR in Dermacentor marginatus, Hyalomma asiaticum, Hyalomma scupense, Hyalomma anatolicum. The infection of ticks Dermacentor marginatus and Hyalomma asiaticum collected on cattle in the West Kazakhstan region with LSDV was 14.28% and 5.71%, respectively. Coxiella burnetti was found in the ticks Dermacentor marginatus (31.91%) in the Turkestan region and Hyalomma anatolicum (52.63%) in the Zhambyl region. Theileria annulata was found in ticks Hyalomma scupense (7.32%) and Dermacentor marginatus (6.10%) from cattle in the Turkestan region. Babesia caballi was isolated only from the species Hyalomma scupense (17.14%) in the Turkestan region. There were no PCR-positive tick samples collected from sheep. RNA/DNAs of tick-borne encephalitis virus (TBEV), African swine fever virus (ASFV), Hantavirus hemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome (HFRS), and chlamydia pathogens were not found in ticks. The new data give a better understanding of the epidemiology of tick-borne pathogens and the possibility of the emergence of tick-borne animal diseases in Kazakhstan.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kulyaisan T. Sultankulova
- Research Institute for Biological Safety Problems of the Ministry of Health of the Republic of Kazakhstan, Gvardeiskiy 080409, Kazakhstan
- Correspondence: (K.T.S.); (G.O.S.)
| | - Gaukhar O. Shynybekova
- Research Institute for Biological Safety Problems of the Ministry of Health of the Republic of Kazakhstan, Gvardeiskiy 080409, Kazakhstan
- Correspondence: (K.T.S.); (G.O.S.)
| | - Aisha U. Issabek
- Research Institute for Biological Safety Problems of the Ministry of Health of the Republic of Kazakhstan, Gvardeiskiy 080409, Kazakhstan
| | - Nazym N. Mukhami
- Research Institute for Biological Safety Problems of the Ministry of Health of the Republic of Kazakhstan, Gvardeiskiy 080409, Kazakhstan
| | - Aibarys M. Melisbek
- Research Institute for Biological Safety Problems of the Ministry of Health of the Republic of Kazakhstan, Gvardeiskiy 080409, Kazakhstan
| | - Olga V. Chervyakova
- Research Institute for Biological Safety Problems of the Ministry of Health of the Republic of Kazakhstan, Gvardeiskiy 080409, Kazakhstan
| | - Nurlan S. Kozhabergenov
- Research Institute for Biological Safety Problems of the Ministry of Health of the Republic of Kazakhstan, Gvardeiskiy 080409, Kazakhstan
| | - Sabyrkhan M. Barmak
- LLP “Kazakh Research Institute of Processing and Food Industry”, Almaty 050060, Kazakhstan
| | - Arailym K. Bopi
- Research Institute for Biological Safety Problems of the Ministry of Health of the Republic of Kazakhstan, Gvardeiskiy 080409, Kazakhstan
| | - Zamira D. Omarova
- Research Institute for Biological Safety Problems of the Ministry of Health of the Republic of Kazakhstan, Gvardeiskiy 080409, Kazakhstan
| | - Dana A. Alibekova
- Research Institute for Biological Safety Problems of the Ministry of Health of the Republic of Kazakhstan, Gvardeiskiy 080409, Kazakhstan
| | - Takhmina U. Argimbayeva
- Research Institute for Biological Safety Problems of the Ministry of Health of the Republic of Kazakhstan, Gvardeiskiy 080409, Kazakhstan
| | - Aidar M. Namet
- MVA Group Scientific-Research Production Center Ltd., Almaty 050046, Kazakhstan
| | - Ivan A. Zuban
- Department “Biology”, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, M. Kozybayev North Kazakhstan University, Petropavlovsk 150000, Kazakhstan
| | - Mukhit B. Orynbayev
- Research Institute for Biological Safety Problems of the Ministry of Health of the Republic of Kazakhstan, Gvardeiskiy 080409, Kazakhstan
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Graham H, van Kalsbeek P, van der Goot J, Koene MGJ. Low seroprevalence of equine piroplasmosis in horses exported from the Netherlands between 2015 and 2021. Front Vet Sci 2022; 9:954046. [PMID: 36299627 PMCID: PMC9588945 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2022.954046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2022] [Accepted: 09/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Equine piroplasmosis (EP) is a tick-borne disease affecting horses, donkeys, mules and zebras, caused by the intracellular apicomplexan protozoa Babesia caballi and Theileria equi. The geographical distribution of EP is closely related to the distribution of its vector tick species belonging to the genera of Dermacentor, Rhipicephalus and Hyalomma. Since the discovery of Dermacentor reticulatus ticks in 2007 and the first reported autochthonous cases in the South of the Netherlands in 2012, no data on the (sero)prevalence of EP in horses in the Netherlands have been reported and it remains unclear whether B. caballi and T. equi have been able to establish themselves in the Netherlands. This study aims to give an update on the current status of EP in horses in the Netherlands using data from serological tests performed in the context of export and screening of 12,881 horses from 2015 through 2020. Horses were categorized as “Dutch,” “Foreign,” or “Unknown” based on microchip number. The overall seroprevalence of EP in Dutch horses was found to be 0.5% (95% exact CI [0.4–0.7]), compared to 1.9% (95% exact CI [1.3–2.6]) in horses in the category “Foreign” and 1.7% (95% exact CI [1.2–2.3]) in horses in the category “Unknown.” In addition, the seroprevalence per country in the category “Foreign” ranged from 0% (0.95% exact CI [0–2.8]) for Ireland to 6.0% (0.95% exact CI [3.5–9.3]) for Spain. In light of the reports on the seroprevalence during the outbreak of autochthonous EP reported in 2012 and on seroprevalences of EP in other countries in Northwestern Europe, the seroprevalence of EP in horses exported from the Netherlands is very low. However, the higher seroprevalence of EP in horses from abroad warrants the need for the monitoring of EP, as tick vectors are present in the Netherlands and the import of horses from endemic areas increases the chances of EP becoming more prevalent in the Netherlands.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Heather Graham
- Department of Diagnostics and Crisis Organization, Wageningen Bioveterinary Research, Lelystad, Netherlands,*Correspondence: Heather Graham
| | - Paul van Kalsbeek
- Department of Diagnostics and Crisis Organization, Wageningen Bioveterinary Research, Lelystad, Netherlands
| | - Jeanet van der Goot
- Department of Diagnostics and Crisis Organization, Wageningen Bioveterinary Research, Lelystad, Netherlands
| | - Miriam G. J. Koene
- Department of Bacteriology, Host Pathogen Interaction and Diagnostics, Wageningen Bioveterinary Research, Lelystad, Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
18S rRNA Gene-Based Piroplasmid PCR: An Assay for Rapid and Precise Molecular Screening of Theileria and Babesia Species in Animals. Acta Parasitol 2022; 67:1697-1707. [PMID: 36178614 PMCID: PMC9523193 DOI: 10.1007/s11686-022-00625-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2022] [Accepted: 09/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
Purpose The parasites of genera such as Babesia and Theileria are called piroplasmids due to the pear-shaped morphology of the multiplying parasite stages in the blood of the vertebrate host. Because of the enormous number of parasite species and the challenges of multiplex PCR, initial screening of samples using piroplasmid-specific PCR may be a more cost-effective and efficient technique to identify parasite species, especially during epidemiological studies. Accordingly, 18S rRNA PCR was standardized and optimized on common piroplasmids of different animals like cattle, buffaloes, sheep, goats, dogs, horses, and leopards. Methods Bloods samples from 1250 animals were collected from different animals in Junagadh district of Gujarat, India. 18S rRNA PCR was standardized and optimized as a primary method for molecular screening of piroplasms in domestic and wild animals. The method was checked for its analytical sensitivity and specificity. Parasite species-specific PCR and sequencing was used to validate the test. Moreover, in-silico restriction enzyme (RE) analysis was also done to assess its applicability in PCR–RFLP. Results Piroplasm infections were recorded in 63.3% of animals in Junagadh. The 18S rRNA PCR detected the piroplasmid DNA in as low as 39 picograms (pg) of whole blood genomic DNA isolated from microscopically Theileria positive blood samples and no reactivity was recorded from common but unrelated haemoparasites viz., Trypanosoma evansi, Hepatozoon spp., Anaplasma spp., and Ehrlichia canis was observed. The 18S rRNA PCR assay findings were confirmed by species-specific PCR and sequencing. Analysis of different sequences generated using 18S rRNA PCR revealed that the amplicon size of Babesia spp. is nearly 400 bp (393–408 bp) whereas Theileria spp. were more than 400 bp (418–424 bp). The percentage of sequence divergence among Babesia and Theileria spp. was 7.3–12.2% and 0.7–12.2%, respectively. In-silico restriction enzyme (RE) analysis reveals the presence of at least one site for a commercially available RE in 18S rRNA fragments of every parasite, which can differentiate it from its congeners. Conclusions The presented universal oligonucleotide-based PCR assay provides a highly sensitive, specific, cost-effective, and rapid diagnostic tool for the initial screening of piroplasmids infecting domestic and wild animals and is potentially helpful for large-scale epidemiological studies. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s11686-022-00625-2.
Collapse
|
33
|
El-Alfy ES, Abbas I, Baghdadi HB, El-Sayed SAES, Ji S, Rizk MA. Molecular Epidemiology and Species Diversity of Tick-Borne Pathogens of Animals in Egypt: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Pathogens 2022; 11:pathogens11080912. [PMID: 36015033 PMCID: PMC9416077 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens11080912] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2022] [Revised: 08/07/2022] [Accepted: 08/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Ticks and tick-borne pathogens (TTBPs) are listed among the most serious concerns harming Egyptian livestock’s productivity. Several reports on tick-borne pathogens (TBPs) from various geographical regions in the country were published. However, data on the molecular characterization of TBPs are the most beneficial for understanding the epidemiology of this important group of pathogens. In this study, we present the first meta-analysis on the molecular epidemiology and species diversity of TBPs infecting animals in Egypt. All published studies on TBPs were systematically collected from various databases (PubMed, Scopus, ScienceDirect, the Egyptian Knowledge Bank, and Google Scholar). Data from eligible papers were extracted and subjected to various analyses. Seventy-eight studies were found to be eligible for inclusion. Furthermore, ticks infesting animals that were molecularly screened for their associated pathogens were also included in this study to display high species diversity and underline the high infection risk to animals. Theileria annulata was used as parasite model of TBPs to study the genetic diversity and transmission dynamics across different governorates of Egypt. This study extends cross-comparisons between all published molecular data on TBPs in Egypt and provides resources from Egyptian data in order to better understand parasite epidemiology, species diversity, and disease outcome as well as the development and implementation of prevention and control methods for public health, veterinary care practitioners, and animal owners all over the country.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- El-Sayed El-Alfy
- Parasitology Department, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura 35516, Egypt
| | - Ibrahim Abbas
- Parasitology Department, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura 35516, Egypt
| | - Hanadi B. Baghdadi
- Biology Department, College of Science, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, Dammam 31113, Saudi Arabia
- Basic and Applied Scientific Research Center (BASRC), Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, Dammam 31113, Saudi Arabia
| | - Shimaa Abd El-Salam El-Sayed
- National Research Center for Protozoan Diseases, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Inada-Cho, Obihiro 080-8555, Hokkaido, Japan
- Department of Biochemistry and Chemistry of Nutrition, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura 35516, Egypt
| | - Shengwei Ji
- National Research Center for Protozoan Diseases, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Inada-Cho, Obihiro 080-8555, Hokkaido, Japan
| | - Mohamed Abdo Rizk
- Department of Internal Medicine, Infectious and Fish Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura 35516, Egypt
- Correspondence:
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Remesar S, Arnal JL, Gómez A, Prieto A, García-Dios D, Benito A, Panadero R, Morrondo P, Díaz P. A case report of fatal feline babesiosis caused by Babesia canis in north western Spain. BMC Vet Res 2022; 18:177. [PMID: 35568873 PMCID: PMC9107175 DOI: 10.1186/s12917-022-03287-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2022] [Accepted: 05/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In Europe, Babesia infections in cats are sporadic and only partial knowledge is currently available since the number of described cases including both the clinical presentation and the molecular identification of the Babesia species involved is limited. In the present case report, the clinical signs, the epidemiological data and the molecular results suggest that this is the first reported fatal case of feline babesiosis caused by Babesia canis. CASE PRESENTATION A six month old female European shorthair cat from north-western Spain died after being hospitalized for two days. This animal was pregnant and showed anorexia, lethargy, weakness, jaundice and fever with increased respiratory and heart rates. Haematological analysis revealed haemolytic regenerative anaemia, thrombocytopenia and leukocytosis. The presence of piroplasms was assessed using a PCR targeting the 18S rRNA gene of Babesia spp. and Theileria spp.; the sample resulted positive and B. canis was identified by DNA sequence analysis. The possible existence of co-infections with other vector-borne pathogens such as Anaplasma spp., Bartonella spp., Borrelia burgdorferi s.l., Cytauxzoon spp., Ehrlichia spp., Hepatozoon canis, Mycoplasma spp. or Rickettsia spp. was excluded by qPCR. CONCLUSIONS Our results together with previous reports on Babesia infections in cats from Europe suggest that feline babesiosis should be included in the differential diagnosis of animals with anaemia, thrombocytopenia, anorexia and lethargy, especially in young or immunocompromised animals from endemic areas for canine babesiosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Susana Remesar
- Investigación en Sanidad Animal: Galicia (Grupo INVESAGA), Facultade de Veterinaria, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, Pabellón I. Campus Universitario S/N, 27002, Lugo, Spain
| | | | | | - Alberto Prieto
- Investigación en Sanidad Animal: Galicia (Grupo INVESAGA), Facultade de Veterinaria, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, Pabellón I. Campus Universitario S/N, 27002, Lugo, Spain.
| | - David García-Dios
- Investigación en Sanidad Animal: Galicia (Grupo INVESAGA), Facultade de Veterinaria, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, Pabellón I. Campus Universitario S/N, 27002, Lugo, Spain
| | | | - Rosario Panadero
- Investigación en Sanidad Animal: Galicia (Grupo INVESAGA), Facultade de Veterinaria, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, Pabellón I. Campus Universitario S/N, 27002, Lugo, Spain
| | - Patrocinio Morrondo
- Investigación en Sanidad Animal: Galicia (Grupo INVESAGA), Facultade de Veterinaria, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, Pabellón I. Campus Universitario S/N, 27002, Lugo, Spain
| | - Pablo Díaz
- Investigación en Sanidad Animal: Galicia (Grupo INVESAGA), Facultade de Veterinaria, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, Pabellón I. Campus Universitario S/N, 27002, Lugo, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Peckle M, Pires MS, Dos Santos TM, Roier ECR, da Silva CB, Vilela JAR, Paulino PG, Santos HA, Massard CL. Molecular investigation of Babesia caballi in horses from the state of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil: Epidemiological aspects associated with the infection. Vet Parasitol Reg Stud Reports 2022; 30:100709. [PMID: 35431067 DOI: 10.1016/j.vprsr.2022.100709] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2021] [Revised: 02/10/2022] [Accepted: 02/16/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
The epidemiological aspects of Babesia caballi infection were evaluated in 516 horse samples from Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. The presence and infestation level of ticks on horses, breed conditions, and animal management were evaluated on each farm through an epidemiological questionnaire. The gene that codes for rhoptry-associated protein-1 (RAP-1) of B. caballi was amplified by nested PCR (nPCR). Among the horses sampled, 17.2% (n = 89/516) presented B. caballi DNA. The characterized samples showed 99-100% similarity with other isolates of B. caballi based on the RAP-1 gene, available in GenBank. In the final logistic regression model, the variables associated with B. caballi infection in horses were as follows: age below two years (OR = 3.33; IC = 1.7-6.5), farms located in low altitudes (OR = 3.52; IC = 1.7-7.3) and Dermacentor nitens infestation (OR = 1.91; IC = 1.1-3.4). Furthermore, a high level of D. nitens infestation in horses was also a factor associated with positivity for B. caballi (OR = 2.11; IC = 1.25-3.54). In summary, young horses bred in low altitude regions characterized with high temperatures, and infested by D. nitens, mainly with a higher level of infestation, are more likely to be infected by B. caballi. This epidemiological study provides statical evidence that the D. nitens tick play a role as the biological vector of B. caballi in the studied region.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maristela Peckle
- Department of Animal Parasitology, Federal Rural University of Rio de Janeiro (UFRRJ), BR 465, Km 7, Seropedica, RJ 23890-000, Brazil
| | - Marcus Sandes Pires
- Department of Animal Parasitology, Federal Rural University of Rio de Janeiro (UFRRJ), BR 465, Km 7, Seropedica, RJ 23890-000, Brazil
| | - Tiago Marques Dos Santos
- Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, Federal Rural University of Rio de Janeiro (UFRRJ), BR 465, Km 7, Seropedica, RJ 23890-000, Brazil
| | - Erica Cristina Rocha Roier
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Severino Sombra University, Av. Expedicionário Osvaldo de Almeida Ramos, 280 - Centro, Vassouras - RJ, 27700-000, Brazil
| | - Claudia Bezerra da Silva
- Department of Animal Parasitology, Federal Rural University of Rio de Janeiro (UFRRJ), BR 465, Km 7, Seropedica, RJ 23890-000, Brazil
| | - Joice Aparecida Resende Vilela
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Severino Sombra University, Av. Expedicionário Osvaldo de Almeida Ramos, 280 - Centro, Vassouras - RJ, 27700-000, Brazil; Technical Assistance and Rural Extension Company (EMATER), Estrada RJ 99, Km 8, Itaguai, RJ 23855-120, Brazil
| | - Patrícia Gonzaga Paulino
- Department of Animal Parasitology, Federal Rural University of Rio de Janeiro (UFRRJ), BR 465, Km 7, Seropedica, RJ 23890-000, Brazil
| | - Huarrisson Azevedo Santos
- Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, Federal Rural University of Rio de Janeiro (UFRRJ), BR 465, Km 7, Seropedica, RJ 23890-000, Brazil.
| | - Carlos Luiz Massard
- Department of Animal Parasitology, Federal Rural University of Rio de Janeiro (UFRRJ), BR 465, Km 7, Seropedica, RJ 23890-000, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Onyiche TE, Igwenagu E, Malgwi SA, Omeh IJ, Biu AA, Thekisoe O. Hematology and biochemical values in equines naturally infected with Theileria equi in Nigeria. Trop Anim Health Prod 2022; 54:103. [DOI: 10.1007/s11250-022-03095-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2021] [Accepted: 02/01/2022] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
|
37
|
Nadal C, Marsot M, Le Metayer G, Boireau P, Guillot J, Bonnet SI. Spatial and Temporal Circulation of Babesia caballi and Theileria equi in France Based on Seven Years of Serological Data. Pathogens 2022; 11:227. [PMID: 35215171 PMCID: PMC8876836 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens11020227] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2022] [Revised: 01/25/2022] [Accepted: 02/07/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Caused by two blood parasites, Babesia caballi and Theileria equi, equine piroplasmosis is a tick-borne disease that poses major health and economic issues for the equine industry. Our objective was to gain insight into the spatio-temporal variations of parasite circulation in France, where the disease is known to be enzootic, but has been the subject of few studies. Seroprevalence was assessed for each parasite thanks to 16,127 equine sera obtained between 1997 and 2003 from all over France and analysed through complement fixation tests. Results indicated that 13.2% (5-27% depending on the region) of horses were seropositive for T. equi and 9.5% (3-25%) for B. caballi. Regardless of the year, horses from the southern regions of France were the most affected by B. caballi or T. equi infection, while the proportion of horses having antibodies against T. equi increased over time. These results highlight the heterogeneity of the circulation of both piroplasms, which may be linked with ecological diversity and vector distribution. Our data provide baseline information regarding the sero-epidemiology of B. caballi and T. equi infection in horses in France, making it now possible to select regions for future studies on risk factors, and design and implement effective targeted measures against equine piroplasms.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Clémence Nadal
- Epidemiology Unit, Laboratory for Animal Health, University Paris Est, ANSES, 94700 Paris, France; (C.N.); (M.M.)
- ANSES, INRAE, Ecole Nationale Vétérinaire d’Alfort, UMR BIPAR, Laboratory for Animal Health, 94700 Paris, France
| | - Maud Marsot
- Epidemiology Unit, Laboratory for Animal Health, University Paris Est, ANSES, 94700 Paris, France; (C.N.); (M.M.)
| | - Gaël Le Metayer
- Parasitology Department, Ecole Nationale Vétérinaire d’Alfort, 94700 Paris, France; (G.L.M.); (J.G.)
- Veterinary Clinic of La Cère, 15800 Polminhac, France
| | - Pascal Boireau
- Laboratory for Animal Health, University Paris Est, ANSES, 94700 Paris, France;
| | - Jacques Guillot
- Parasitology Department, Ecole Nationale Vétérinaire d’Alfort, 94700 Paris, France; (G.L.M.); (J.G.)
- Dermatology Parasitology Mycology Departement, Ecole Nationale Vétérinaire de Nantes, Oniris, 44307 Nantes, France
| | - Sarah I. Bonnet
- ANSES, INRAE, Ecole Nationale Vétérinaire d’Alfort, UMR BIPAR, Laboratory for Animal Health, 94700 Paris, France
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Rocafort-Ferrer G, Leblond A, Joulié A, René-Martellet M, Sandoz A, Poux V, Pradier S, Barry S, Vial L, Legrand L. Molecular assessment of Theileria equi and Babesia caballi prevalence in horses and ticks on horses in southeastern France. Parasitol Res 2022; 121:999-1008. [PMID: 35128585 PMCID: PMC8858311 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-022-07441-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2021] [Accepted: 01/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Equine piroplasmosis (EP) is a tick-borne disease caused by Babesia caballi and Theileria equi that is potentially emerging in non-endemic countries. We conducted a descriptive study to investigate EP prevalence and spatial distribution in an endemic region: the Camargue and the Plain of La Crau in France. In spring 2015 and 2016, we carried out sampling at stables (total n = 46) with a history of horses presenting chronic fever or weight loss. Overall, we collected blood from 632 horses, which were also inspected for ticks; these horses had been housed in the target stables for at least 1 year. We obtained 585 ticks from these horses and described land use around the stables. Real-time PCR was employed to assess T. equi and B. caballi prevalence in the horses and in the ticks found on the horses. For the horses, T. equi and B. caballi prevalence was 68.6% and 6.3%, respectively. For the ticks found on the horses, prevalence was 28.8% for T. equi and 0.85% for B. caballi. The most common tick species were, in order of frequency, Rhipicephalus bursa, R. sanguineus sl., Hyalomma marginatum, Haemaphysalis punctata, and Dermacentor sp. Horses bearing Rhipicephalus ticks occurred in wetter zones, closer to agricultural areas, permanent crops, and ditches, as well as in drier zones, in the more northern countryside. Compared to horses bearing R. bursa, horses bearing R. sanguineus sl. more frequently occurred near the Rhone River. Prevalence of T. equi in the ticks was as follows: Hyalomma marginatum (43%), Dermacentor sp. (40%), R. bursa (33%), R. sanguineus sl. (19%), and Haemaphysalis punctata (17%). In contrast, B. caballi only occurred in Dermacentor sp. (20%) and R. bursa (1%).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gloria Rocafort-Ferrer
- Equine Department, Université de Lyon, VetAgro Sup, Campus Vétérinaire de Lyon, 69280, Marcy l'Etoile, France.
- La Clinique du Cheval, Centre Hospitalier Vétérinaire Équin, 3910 Route de Launac, 31330, Grenade, France.
| | - Agnès Leblond
- EPIA, UMR 0346, Epidemiologie des maladies animales et zoonotiques, INRAE, VetAgro Sup, 69280, Marcy l'Etoile, France
| | - Aurélien Joulié
- École Nationale Vétérinaire de Toulouse - Université de Toulouse, 31300, Toulouse, France
| | - Magalie René-Martellet
- EPIA, UMR 0346, Epidemiologie des maladies animales et zoonotiques, INRAE, VetAgro Sup, 69280, Marcy l'Etoile, France
| | - Alain Sandoz
- Laboratoire Chimie de L'Environnement, CNRS, UMR 7376, Aix Marseille Université, 13003, Marseille, France
| | - Valérie Poux
- EPIA, UMR 0346, Epidemiologie des maladies animales et zoonotiques, INRAE, VetAgro Sup, 63122, Saint-Genès-Champanelle, France
| | | | - Séverine Barry
- EPIA, UMR 0346, Epidemiologie des maladies animales et zoonotiques, INRAE, VetAgro Sup, 63122, Saint-Genès-Champanelle, France
| | - Laurence Vial
- BIOS Department, CIRAD-INRAE Joint Research Unit ASTRE (Animals, Health, Territories, Risks, and Ecosystems), Campus International de Baillarguet, 34398Cedex 5, Montpellier, France
| | - Loïc Legrand
- LABÉO Frank Duncombe, 14280, Saint-Contest, France
- UNICAEN, BIOTARGEN, Normandie University, 14000, Caen, France
- UNICAEN ImpedanCEL, Normandie University, 14280, Saint-Contest, France
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Chen K, Hu Z, Li J, Wang J, Liu D, Qi T, Guo W, Du C, Wang X. Prevalence and molecular epidemiology of equine piroplasmosis in China: a neglected tick-borne disease. SCIENCE CHINA. LIFE SCIENCES 2022; 65:445-447. [PMID: 34939161 DOI: 10.1007/s11427-021-2021-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2021] [Accepted: 10/27/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Kewei Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Veterinary Biotechnology, Harbin Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Harbin, 150069, China
| | - Zhe Hu
- State Key Laboratory of Veterinary Biotechnology, Harbin Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Harbin, 150069, China
| | - Jingkun Li
- Department of Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, 150081, China
| | - Jingfei Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Veterinary Biotechnology, Harbin Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Harbin, 150069, China
| | - Diqiu Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Veterinary Biotechnology, Harbin Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Harbin, 150069, China
| | - Ting Qi
- State Key Laboratory of Veterinary Biotechnology, Harbin Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Harbin, 150069, China
| | - Wei Guo
- State Key Laboratory of Veterinary Biotechnology, Harbin Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Harbin, 150069, China
| | - Cheng Du
- State Key Laboratory of Veterinary Biotechnology, Harbin Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Harbin, 150069, China.
| | - Xiaojun Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Veterinary Biotechnology, Harbin Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Harbin, 150069, China.
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
The Piroplasmida Babesia, Cytauxzoon, and Theileria in farm and companion animals: species compilation, molecular phylogeny, and evolutionary insights. Parasitol Res 2022; 121:1207-1245. [DOI: 10.1007/s00436-022-07424-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2021] [Accepted: 01/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
|
41
|
Chen K, Hu Z, Yang G, Guo W, Qi T, Liu D, Wang Y, Du C, Wang X. Development of a duplex real-time PCR assay for simultaneous detection and differentiation of Theileria equi and Babesia caballi. Transbound Emerg Dis 2022; 69:e1338-e1349. [PMID: 35089645 DOI: 10.1111/tbed.14464] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2021] [Revised: 01/11/2022] [Accepted: 01/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Equine piroplasmosis (EP) is a tick-borne disease caused by three apicomplexan protozoan parasites, Theileria equi (T. equi), Babesia caballi (B. caballi) and T. haneyi, which can cause similar clinical symptoms. There are five known 18S rRNA genotypes of T. equi group (including T. haneyi) and three of B. caballi. Real-time PCR methods for detecting EP based on 18S rRNA analysis have been developed, but these methods cannot detect all genotypes of EP in China, especially genotype A of T. equi. In this study, a duplex real-time PCR detection method was developed for the simultaneous detection and differentiation of T. equi and B. caballi. The primers and probes for this duplex real-time PCR assay were designed based on the conserved 18S rRNA gene sequences of all genotypes of T. equi and B. caballi including Chinese strain. Double-quenched probes were used in this method, which provide less background and more signal to decrease the number of false positives relative to single-quenched probes. The newly developed real-time PCR assays exhibited good specificity, sensitivity, repeatability and reproducibility. The real-time PCR assays were further validated by comparison with a nested PCR assay and a previous developed real-time PCR for EP and sequencing results in the analysis of 506 clinical samples collected from 2019 to 2020 in eleven provinces and regions of China. Based on clinical performance, the agreements between the duplex real-time PCR assay and the nPCR assay or the previous developed real-time PCR assay were 92.5% (T. equi) and 99.4% (B. caballi) or 87.4% (T. equi) and 97.2% (B. caballi). The detection results showed that the positivity rate of T. equi was 43.87% (222/506) (10 genotype A, 1 genotype B, 4 genotype C, 207 genotype E), while that of B. caballi was 5.10% (26/506) (26 genotype A), and the rate of T. equi and B. caballi coinfection was 2.40% (12/506). The established method could contribute to the accurate diagnosis, pathogenic surveillance and epidemiological investigation of T. equi and B. caballi infections in horses. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kewei Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Veterinary Biotechnology, Harbin Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Harbin, China
| | - Zhe Hu
- State Key Laboratory of Veterinary Biotechnology, Harbin Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Harbin, China
| | - Guangpu Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Veterinary Biotechnology, Harbin Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Harbin, China
| | - Wei Guo
- State Key Laboratory of Veterinary Biotechnology, Harbin Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Harbin, China
| | - Ting Qi
- State Key Laboratory of Veterinary Biotechnology, Harbin Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Harbin, China
| | - Diqiu Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Veterinary Biotechnology, Harbin Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Harbin, China
| | - Yaoxin Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Veterinary Biotechnology, Harbin Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Harbin, China
| | - Cheng Du
- State Key Laboratory of Veterinary Biotechnology, Harbin Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Harbin, China
| | - Xiaojun Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Veterinary Biotechnology, Harbin Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Harbin, China
| |
Collapse
|
42
|
Almazán C, Scimeca RC, Reichard MV, Mosqueda J. Babesiosis and Theileriosis in North America. Pathogens 2022; 11:168. [PMID: 35215111 PMCID: PMC8874406 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens11020168] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2021] [Revised: 01/18/2022] [Accepted: 01/24/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Babesia and Theileria are apicomplexan parasites that cause established and emerging diseases in humans, domestic and wild animals. These protozoans are transmitted by Ixodid ticks causing babesiosis or theileriosis, both characterized by fever, hemolytic anemia, jaundice, and splenomegaly. In North America (NA), the most common species affecting humans is B. microti, which is distributed in the Northeastern and Upper Midwestern United States (US), where the tick vector Ixodes scapularis is established. In livestock, B. bovis and B. bigemina are the most important pathogens causing bovine babesiosis in tropical regions of Mexico. Despite efforts toward eradication of their tick vector, Rhipicephalus microplus, B. bovis and B. bigemina present a constant threat of being reintroduced into the southern US and represent a continuous concern for the US cattle industry. Occasional outbreaks of T. equi, and T. orientalis have occurred in horses and cattle, respectively, in the US, with significant economic implications for livestock including quarantine, production loss, and euthanasia of infected animals. In addition, a new species, T. haneyi, has been recently discovered in horses from the Mexico-US border. Domestic dogs are hosts to at least four species of Babesia in NA that may result in clinical disease that ranges from subclinical to acute, severe anemia. Herein we review the pathogenesis, diagnosis, and epidemiology of the most important diseases caused by Babesia and Theileria to humans, domestic and wild animals in Canada, the US, and Mexico.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Consuelo Almazán
- Immunology and Vaccines Laboratory, C. A. Facultad de Ciencias Naturales, Universidad Autónoma de Querétaro, Carretera a Chichimequillas, Queretaro 76140, Mexico;
| | - Ruth C. Scimeca
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, OK 74078, USA; (R.C.S.); (M.V.R.)
| | - Mason V. Reichard
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, OK 74078, USA; (R.C.S.); (M.V.R.)
| | - Juan Mosqueda
- Immunology and Vaccines Laboratory, C. A. Facultad de Ciencias Naturales, Universidad Autónoma de Querétaro, Carretera a Chichimequillas, Queretaro 76140, Mexico;
| |
Collapse
|
43
|
Hart CE, Bhaskar JR, Reynolds E, Hermance M, Earl M, Mahoney M, Martinez A, Petzlova I, Esterly AT, Thangamani S. Community engaged tick surveillance and tickMAP as a public health tool to track the emergence of ticks and tick-borne diseases in New York. PLOS GLOBAL PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 2:e0000215. [PMID: 36962313 PMCID: PMC10022224 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgph.0000215] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2021] [Accepted: 05/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
A community engaged passive surveillance program was utilized to acquire ticks and associated information throughout New York state. Ticks were speciated and screened for several tick-borne pathogens. Of these ticks, only I. scapularis was commonly infected with pathogens of human relevance, including B. burgdorferi, B. miyamotoi, A. phagocytophilum, B. microti, and Powassan virus. In addition, the geographic and temporal distribution of tick species and pathogens was determined. This enabled the construction of a powerful visual analytical mapping tool, tickMAP to track the emergence of ticks and tick-borne pathogens in real-time. The public can use this tool to identify hot-spots of disease emergence, clinicians for supportive evidence during differential diagnosis, and researchers to better understand factors influencing the emergence of ticks and tick-borne diseases in New York. Overall, we have created a community-engaged tick surveillance program and an interactive visual analytical tickMAP that other regions could emulate to provide real-time tracking and an early warning for the emergence of tick-borne diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Charles E Hart
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, New York, United States of America
- SUNY Center for Vector-Borne Diseases, SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, New York, United States of America
- Institute for Global Health and Translational Science, SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, New York, United States of America
| | - Jahnavi Reddy Bhaskar
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, New York, United States of America
- SUNY Center for Vector-Borne Diseases, SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, New York, United States of America
- Institute for Global Health and Translational Science, SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, New York, United States of America
| | - Erin Reynolds
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, New York, United States of America
- SUNY Center for Vector-Borne Diseases, SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, New York, United States of America
- Institute for Global Health and Translational Science, SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, New York, United States of America
| | - Meghan Hermance
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of South Alabama College of Medicine, Mobile, Alabama, United States of America
| | - Martin Earl
- Moonshot Team, Information Management and Technology, SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, New York, United States of America
| | - Matthew Mahoney
- Moonshot Team, Information Management and Technology, SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, New York, United States of America
| | - Ana Martinez
- Moonshot Team, Information Management and Technology, SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, New York, United States of America
| | - Ivona Petzlova
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, New York, United States of America
- SUNY Center for Vector-Borne Diseases, SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, New York, United States of America
- Institute for Global Health and Translational Science, SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, New York, United States of America
| | - Allen T Esterly
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, New York, United States of America
- SUNY Center for Vector-Borne Diseases, SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, New York, United States of America
- Institute for Global Health and Translational Science, SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, New York, United States of America
| | - Saravanan Thangamani
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, New York, United States of America
- SUNY Center for Vector-Borne Diseases, SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, New York, United States of America
- Institute for Global Health and Translational Science, SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, New York, United States of America
| |
Collapse
|
44
|
Risso A, Campos G, Garcia H, Zerpa H. Insights into equine piroplasmosis in Venezuelan sport horses: Molecular diagnosis, clinical, and cardiovascular findings. Vet Parasitol Reg Stud Reports 2022; 27:100666. [PMID: 35012720 DOI: 10.1016/j.vprsr.2021.100666] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2021] [Revised: 08/28/2021] [Accepted: 11/15/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Equine piroplasmosis (EP) is a tick-borne infectious disease highly prevalent in tropical and subtropical regions, such as Venezuela. EP affects wild and domestic equids leading to several clinical presentations, from asymptomatic to severely affected animals. In this study, thirty-three (33) sport horses under regular training activities and from endemic regions of north-central Venezuela were submitted to an observational survey, case-control, to describe the presence of clinical signs and natural EP infections. A conventional PCR assay targeting the SSU rRNA gene revealed EP etiologic agents in 13 out of 33 sampled horses (~ 39.4% infections). Nine (9) of these EP-positive samples were confirmed as infected with Babesia caballi (6/9 = 66.7%) or Theileria equi (3/9 = 33.3%) by DNA sequencing and BLASTN analyses. A phylogeny of SSU rRNA gene sequences revealed that these new B. caballi and T. equi sequences clustered within the worldwide distributed phylogenetic genotype A, respectively. No acute EP cases were observed in this study; however, six (6) PCR-positive animals displayed mild clinical signs compatible with EP, including a mild leukocytosis (P < 0.05). The heart rate variability frequency domain analysis in four (4) of these EP-positive infected animals revealed a significant (P < 0.05) higher low-frequency/high-frequency ratio suggesting a sympathovagal imbalance in these chronically infected animals. Other clinical and cardiovascular parameters were similar between the different groups. Sport horses are routinely submitted to intense training programs and sport-related activities that could lead to loss of the host-parasite equilibrium that characterizes enzootic regions, increasing the likelihood of infection reactivation and the risk of transmission. Heart rate variability analysis contributes to evaluate the sympathovagal balance and detecting homeostasis disturbances in sport horses. Molecular diagnostic tests for EP based on the detection of parasite DNA in equine blood samples should be included in the health programs of sport horses in endemic areas.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Arnaldo Risso
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, Central University of Venezuela, Maracay, Aragua, Venezuela; Department of Veterinary Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, Romulo Gallegos University, Zaraza, Guarico, Venezuela
| | - Gerardo Campos
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, Central University of Venezuela, Maracay, Aragua, Venezuela
| | - Herakles Garcia
- Department of Parasitology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of São Paulo, Brazil; Department of Veterinary Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, Central University of Venezuela, Maracay, Aragua, Venezuela
| | - Héctor Zerpa
- Anatomy, Physiology, and Pharmacology Department, School of Veterinary Medicine, St. George's University, St. George's, Grenada, West Indies.
| |
Collapse
|
45
|
LACOUT ALEXIS, MAS MARIE, PAJAUD JULIE, PERRONNE VÉRONIQUE, LEQUETTE YANNICK, FRANCK MICHEL, PERRONNE CHRISTIAN. Real time micro-organisms PCR in 104 patients with polymorphic signs and symptoms that may be related to a tick bite. Eur J Microbiol Immunol (Bp) 2021; 11:62-75. [PMID: 34739391 PMCID: PMC8614493 DOI: 10.1556/1886.2021.00011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2021] [Accepted: 10/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Ticks are frequently polyinfected and can thus transmit numerous microorganisms. A large number of bacteria, parasites and viruses are transmitted by tick bites and could cause different signs and symptoms in patients. The main goal of this study was to search for these numerous microorganisms in patients presenting with persistent polymorphic syndrome possibly due to a tick bite (SPPT). PATIENTS AND METHODS The following microorganisms were searched for in saliva, urine, venous and capillary blood by using real time PCR: Borrelia burgdorferi sensu lato, Borrelia miyamotoi, Borrelia hermsii, Bartonella spp., Bartonella quintana, Bartonella henselae, Ehrlichia spp., Anaplasma spp., Rickettsia spp., Coxiella burnetii, Brucella spp., Francisella tularensis, Mycoplasma spp., Chlamydia spp., Babesia spp., Theileria spp. RESULTS 104 patients were included. 48% of the patients were poly-infected, and 25% harboured at least three different microorganisms. Borrelia spp. were not the most frequent bacteria observed, observed far behind Mycoplasma spp., Rickettsia spp. and Ehrlichia spp. which were the most frequent microorganisms observed. Piroplasms were found in a significant number of patients. The most sensitive matrix was saliva, followed by urine, capillary blood and venous blood. CONCLUSION Our prospective study has shown that patients with SPPT, a syndrome close to fibromyalgia, could harbour several tick borne microorganisms.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- ALEXIS LACOUT
- Centre de Diagnostic ELSAN, Centre Médico-Chirurgical, 83 Avenue Charles de Gaulle, 15000, Aurillac, France
| | - MARIE MAS
- Clinique Convert, Médecine Générale, Service des Urgences, 62 Avenue de Jasseron, 01000, Bourg en Bresse, France
| | - JULIE PAJAUD
- ADNucleis, 3 Route des Pierres Blanches, 69290, Grézieu la Varenne, France
| | - VÉRONIQUE PERRONNE
- Hôpital Universitaire Raymond Poincaré (Assistance Publique - Hôpitaux de Paris), Département d’Infectiologie, Université de Versailles – Saint Quentin, Paris-Saclay, France
| | - YANNICK LEQUETTE
- ADNucleis, 3 Route des Pierres Blanches, 69290, Grézieu la Varenne, France
| | - MICHEL FRANCK
- ADNucleis, 3 Route des Pierres Blanches, 69290, Grézieu la Varenne, France
| | - CHRISTIAN PERRONNE
- Hôpital Universitaire Raymond Poincaré (Assistance Publique - Hôpitaux de Paris), Département d’Infectiologie, Université de Versailles – Saint Quentin, Paris-Saclay, France
| |
Collapse
|
46
|
Galon EM, Macalanda AM, Garcia MM, Ibasco CJ, Garvida A, Ji S, Zafar I, Hasegawa Y, Liu M, Ybañez RH, Umemiya-Shirafuji R, Ybañez A, Claveria F, Xuan X. Molecular Identification of Selected Tick-Borne Protozoan and Bacterial Pathogens in Thoroughbred Racehorses in Cavite, Philippines. Pathogens 2021; 10:pathogens10101318. [PMID: 34684266 PMCID: PMC8537292 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens10101318] [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: 09/09/2021] [Revised: 09/29/2021] [Accepted: 10/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Tick-borne diseases (TBDs) considerably impair equine health and productivity. Moreover, TBDs, particularly equine piroplasmosis, impede international movement and trade of equids, which is a vital component of the global horse racing industry. In the Philippines, horse racing is a lucrative industry generating millions of USD annually. However, information on equine TBDs is scarce. This study intended to describe molecularly the equine tick-borne infections in a racehorse park in Cavite, Philippines and identify the risk factors associated with the infections. One hundred twenty-four (n = 124) thoroughbred racehorses were sampled and screened for selected tick-borne protozoan and bacterial pathogens using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assays. Racehorses were positive for Babesia caballi (12.10%; 15/124), Theileria equi (0.81%; 1/124), Anaplasma phagocytophilum (10.48%; 13/124), Borrelia burgdorferi sensu lato (38.71%; 48/124), A. marginale (0.81%; 1/124), and Coxiella burnetii (0.81%; 1/124). Rickettsia was not detected in the samples. Gender was determined as a significant risk factor for B. caballi infection. Sequencing analysis revealed that seven partial 18S rRNA B. caballi isolates shared 98.63–100% identity with each other and were classified as genotype A. Meanwhile, the sequence obtained from the lone T. equi-positive sample was 99.77% identical to isolates from Spain, Switzerland, China, Saudi Arabia, and South Korea, and was confirmed as genotype E based on the 18S rRNA gene. Eight Anaplasma 16S rRNA partial sequences were highly identical to A. phagocytophilum and A. ovis. Partial sequences of Borrelia 5–23S rRNA were most closely related to B. japonica and other Borrelia sp. isolates from various countries. This study reports the first molecular detection of Borrelia and Anaplasma and the identification of B. caballi and T. equi genotypes in racehorses in the Philippines. Findings from this study shall be useful in crafting equine tick and TBD control and prevention programs in the country.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Eloiza May Galon
- National Research Center for Protozoan Diseases, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro 080-8555, Japan; (E.M.G.); (S.J.); (I.Z.); (Y.H.); (R.U.-S.)
| | - Adrian Miki Macalanda
- Department of Immunopathology and Microbiology, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Cavite State University, Indang 4122, Philippines; (M.M.G.); (C.J.I.)
- Correspondence: (A.M.M.); (X.X.)
| | - Mary Margarett Garcia
- Department of Immunopathology and Microbiology, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Cavite State University, Indang 4122, Philippines; (M.M.G.); (C.J.I.)
| | - Chrysler James Ibasco
- Department of Immunopathology and Microbiology, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Cavite State University, Indang 4122, Philippines; (M.M.G.); (C.J.I.)
| | - Anatolio Garvida
- Saddle & Clubs Leisure Park, Philippine Racing Club Inc., Naic 4110, Philippines;
| | - Shengwei Ji
- National Research Center for Protozoan Diseases, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro 080-8555, Japan; (E.M.G.); (S.J.); (I.Z.); (Y.H.); (R.U.-S.)
| | - Iqra Zafar
- National Research Center for Protozoan Diseases, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro 080-8555, Japan; (E.M.G.); (S.J.); (I.Z.); (Y.H.); (R.U.-S.)
| | - Yae Hasegawa
- National Research Center for Protozoan Diseases, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro 080-8555, Japan; (E.M.G.); (S.J.); (I.Z.); (Y.H.); (R.U.-S.)
| | - Mingming Liu
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, School of Basic Medicine, Hubei University of Arts and Science, Xiangyang 441053, China;
| | - Rochelle Haidee Ybañez
- Institute of Molecular Parasitology and Protozoan Diseases, Main Campus and College of Veterinary Medicine, Barili Campus, Cebu Technological University, Cebu City 6000, Philippines; (R.H.Y.); (A.Y.)
| | - Rika Umemiya-Shirafuji
- National Research Center for Protozoan Diseases, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro 080-8555, Japan; (E.M.G.); (S.J.); (I.Z.); (Y.H.); (R.U.-S.)
| | - Adrian Ybañez
- Institute of Molecular Parasitology and Protozoan Diseases, Main Campus and College of Veterinary Medicine, Barili Campus, Cebu Technological University, Cebu City 6000, Philippines; (R.H.Y.); (A.Y.)
| | - Florencia Claveria
- Biology Department, College of Science, De La Salle University, Manila 1004, Philippines;
| | - Xuenan Xuan
- National Research Center for Protozoan Diseases, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro 080-8555, Japan; (E.M.G.); (S.J.); (I.Z.); (Y.H.); (R.U.-S.)
- Correspondence: (A.M.M.); (X.X.)
| |
Collapse
|
47
|
Nadal C, Bonnet SI, Marsot M. Eco-epidemiology of equine piroplasmosis and its associated tick vectors in Europe: A systematic literature review and a meta-analysis of prevalence. Transbound Emerg Dis 2021; 69:2474-2498. [PMID: 34333863 DOI: 10.1111/tbed.14261] [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: 06/02/2021] [Revised: 02/04/2021] [Accepted: 07/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
When studying a vector-borne disease, an eco-epidemiological approach is vital for a comprehensive understanding of how the pathogen circulates amongst populations. Equine piroplasmosis (EP), a tick-borne disease caused by the protozoans Babesia caballi and Theileria equi, is endemic in the Mediterranean basin of Europe and causes both animal health and economic issues for the equine sector. With no vaccine available, defining the episystem of the disease can help to identify which components of the host-pathogen-vector-environment system to target to improve preventive measures. In this systematic literature review, we collected relevant data on the eco-epidemiology of EP in Europe. The 62 studies remaining after the selection procedure explored potential vectors, indicators of parasite circulation and putative risk factors of EP. Eight hard tick species were identified as potential vectors of one or both piroplasm species. Meta-analyses were then conducted on prevalence and seroprevalence data in equids in European countries, demonstrating an estimated seroprevalence of 30% and 8% and prevalence of 25% and 2% for T. equi and B. caballi, respectively. Finally, herd management practices and environmental risk factors analysed in studies showed no real consensus between studies, but revealed a general trend highlighting age and exposure to ticks as risk factors, and vaccination as a protective factor. Through this study, we point out that only a few studies have focused on disease management practices and even fewer have studied the effect of environmental parameters on equid infections. Further investigation in these areas is required to better characterize the eco-epidemiology of EP and risk factors associated with this disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Clémence Nadal
- Epidemiology Unit, Laboratory for Animal Health, ANSES, University Paris Est, Maisons-Alfort, France.,ANSES, INRAE, Ecole Nationale Vétérinaire d'Alfort, Laboratoire de Santé Animale, UMR BIPAR, Maisons-Alfort, France
| | - Sarah I Bonnet
- ANSES, INRAE, Ecole Nationale Vétérinaire d'Alfort, Laboratoire de Santé Animale, UMR BIPAR, Maisons-Alfort, France
| | - Maud Marsot
- Epidemiology Unit, Laboratory for Animal Health, ANSES, University Paris Est, Maisons-Alfort, France
| |
Collapse
|
48
|
Ceylan O, Benedicto B, Ceylan C, Tumwebaze M, Galon EM, Liu M, Xuan X, Sevinc F. A survey on equine tick-borne diseases: The molecular detection of Babesia ovis DNA in Turkish racehorses. Ticks Tick Borne Dis 2021; 12:101784. [PMID: 34280696 DOI: 10.1016/j.ttbdis.2021.101784] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2020] [Revised: 06/04/2021] [Accepted: 06/11/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Common vector-borne diseases of horses include equine piroplasmosis (EP) caused by Babesia caballi and Theileria equi, and equine granulocytic anaplasmosis (EGA) caused by Anaplasma phagocytophilum. Equine piroplasmosis leads to severe health issues in horses and restrictions on the movement of horses internationally. Anaplasma phagocytophilum causes an acute febrile illness in horses and is also of zoonotic importance. In the present study, blood samples were collected from 152 Turkish racehorses from three different provinces (İzmir, Gaziantep, and Konya) of Turkey to investigate the prevalence of EP and EGA. Standard and nested polymerase chain reactions were performed to identify equine piroplasms and A. phagocytophilum, respectively. PCR primers targeting Babesia spp. 18S rRNA, B. caballi BC48, T. equi EMA-1, and A. phagocytophilum 16S rRNA genes were used for molecular diagnosis. Following the cloning and subsequent sequencing of PCR-positive samples, a total of 15 (9.9%) horses were found to be infected with at least one pathogen. Theileria equi and A. phagocytophilum were found in 3.3% (5/152) and 6.6% (10/152) of the samples, respectively. Although B. caballi specimens were not detected in any of the samples, a positive signal was detected for the Babesia genus-specific 18S rRNA PCR. Subsequent sequencing of this signal revealed 100% identity to Babesia ovis. This is the first detection of B. ovis DNA in racehorses in Turkey to the best of our knowledge. Additionally, this study also reports the first molecular identification of A. phagocytophilum in Turkish racehorses. Based on this report, it is recommended that future epidemiological studies on horses also take B. ovis, a parasite usually found in sheep, into consideration and that further detailed studies be conducted to unravel the transmission pathways and potential clinical effects of B. ovis in horses.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Onur Ceylan
- Selcuk University, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Parasitology, Konya, Turkey
| | - Byamukama Benedicto
- National Research Center for Protozoan Diseases, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro, Hokkaido 080-8555, Japan
| | - Ceylan Ceylan
- Selcuk University, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Parasitology, Konya, Turkey
| | - Maria Tumwebaze
- National Research Center for Protozoan Diseases, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro, Hokkaido 080-8555, Japan
| | - Eloiza May Galon
- National Research Center for Protozoan Diseases, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro, Hokkaido 080-8555, Japan
| | - Mingming Liu
- National Research Center for Protozoan Diseases, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro, Hokkaido 080-8555, Japan
| | - Xuenan Xuan
- National Research Center for Protozoan Diseases, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro, Hokkaido 080-8555, Japan.
| | - Ferda Sevinc
- Selcuk University, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Parasitology, Konya, Turkey.
| |
Collapse
|
49
|
Torres R, Hurtado C, Pérez-Macchi S, Bittencourt P, Freschi C, de Mello VVC, Machado RZ, André MR, Müller A. Occurrence and Genetic Diversity of Babesia caballi and Theileria equi in Chilean Thoroughbred Racing Horses. Pathogens 2021; 10:714. [PMID: 34200433 PMCID: PMC8226895 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens10060714] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2021] [Revised: 06/02/2021] [Accepted: 06/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
This study aimed to serologically and molecularly survey Babesia caballi and Theileria equi in thoroughbred horses from racecourses in Chile. Additionally, the genetic diversity of the positive samples was assessed. A total of 286 thoroughbred horses from the Santiago and Valparaíso racecourses had their serum samples submitted to an ELISA for B. caballi and T. equi, and 457 samples (from the Santiago, Valparaíso, and Concepción racecourses) were tested with nested PCRs for the B. caballi 48 KDa rhoptry protein (RAP-1) and T. equi 18S rRNA genes. Selected RAP-1 and 18S positive products were sequenced to perform phylogenetic and haplotype analyses. An overall seroprevalence of 35.6% was observed for these Chilean racecourses: 23.7% for T. equi, 8.4% for B. caballi, and 3.5% for both agents. Overall, a 53.6% occurrence by nPCR was detected for the three Chilean racecourses: 44.2% for T. equi, 5.4% for B. caballi, and 3.9% for both agents. Phylogenetic analysis of T. equi and B. caballi showed genetic proximity with sequences previously detected in other countries. Haplotype analysis revealed a low diversity among the Chilean sequences, which may have originated from those reported in Brazil, Israel, or Cuba. Babesia caballi and T. equi were detected for the first time in Chilean thoroughbred horses.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Reinaldo Torres
- Instituto de Ciencias Clinicas Veterinarias, Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias, Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia 5090000, Chile; (R.T.); (C.H.)
| | - Claudio Hurtado
- Instituto de Ciencias Clinicas Veterinarias, Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias, Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia 5090000, Chile; (R.T.); (C.H.)
| | - Sandra Pérez-Macchi
- Departamento de Patologia Clinica Veterinaria, Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias, Universidad Nacional de Asunción, San Lorenzo 1114, Paraguay;
| | - Pedro Bittencourt
- Biomedical Sciences Department, Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine, Basseterre, Saint Kitts and Nevis;
| | - Carla Freschi
- IMUNODOT Diagnostico, Jaboticabal 14887-042, SP, Brazil;
| | - Victoria Valente Califre de Mello
- Departamento de Patologia, Reproducao e Saude Unica, Faculdade de Ciencias Agrarias e Veterinarias, Universidade Estadual Paulista, (FCAV/UNESP), Jaboticabal 14884-900, SP, Brazil; (V.V.C.d.M.); (R.Z.M.); (M.R.A.)
| | - Rosangela Zacarias Machado
- Departamento de Patologia, Reproducao e Saude Unica, Faculdade de Ciencias Agrarias e Veterinarias, Universidade Estadual Paulista, (FCAV/UNESP), Jaboticabal 14884-900, SP, Brazil; (V.V.C.d.M.); (R.Z.M.); (M.R.A.)
| | - Marcos Rogério André
- Departamento de Patologia, Reproducao e Saude Unica, Faculdade de Ciencias Agrarias e Veterinarias, Universidade Estadual Paulista, (FCAV/UNESP), Jaboticabal 14884-900, SP, Brazil; (V.V.C.d.M.); (R.Z.M.); (M.R.A.)
| | - Ananda Müller
- Instituto de Ciencias Clinicas Veterinarias, Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias, Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia 5090000, Chile; (R.T.); (C.H.)
- Biomedical Sciences Department, Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine, Basseterre, Saint Kitts and Nevis;
| |
Collapse
|
50
|
Onyiche TE, Sivakumar T, Tuvshintulga B, Nugraha AB, Ahedor B, Mofokeng L, Luka J, Mohammed A, Mbaya AW, Biu AA, Yokoyama N, Thekisoe O. Serosurvey for equine piroplasms in horses and donkeys from North-Western Nigeria using IFAT and ELISA. J Immunoassay Immunochem 2021; 42:648-661. [PMID: 34097577 DOI: 10.1080/15321819.2021.1935274] [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] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Equine piroplasmosis is caused by apicomplexan parasites, namely, Babesia caballi and Theileria equi, which are transmitted to equids principally through ticks. To ascertain the exposure of equines to agents of equine piroplasms, we tested serum samples collected from horses (n = 272) and donkeys (n = 170) in North-Western Nigeria for the presence of antibodies against B. caballi and T. equi using IFAT and ELISA. The seroprevalence of T. equi in the horses determined using IFAT and ELISA was 48.89% and 45.96%, respectively, while for B. caballi, it was 6.3% and 0.4%, respectively. For T. equi, the seroprevalence based on IFAT and ELISA results in donkeys was 14.1% and 2.9%, respectively, while for B. caballi, the seroprevalence was 2.4% and 0.6%, respectively, for ELISA and IFAT. Mixed infection detected in the horses using IFAT and ELISA was 5.5% and 0.4%, respectively, while no mixed infection was observed in the donkeys. The seroprevalence of T. equi was significantly (P < .0001) higher than that of B. caballi in both horses and donkeys. Comparatively, the IFAT detected a greater number of piroplasm seropositive animals than ELISA, indicating a difference in their diagnostic accuracy. Findings from this study confirm the existence of equine piroplasms in both horses and donkeys in North-Western Nigeria and highlights the need for robust and effective control measures against the disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- ThankGod E Onyiche
- National Research Center for Protozoan Diseases, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro, Hokkaido, Japan.,Unit for Environmental Sciences and Management, North-West University, Potchefstroom Campus, Potchefstroom, South Africa.,Department of Veterinary Parasitology and Entomology, University of Maiduguri, Maiduguri, Nigeria
| | - Thillaiampalam Sivakumar
- National Research Center for Protozoan Diseases, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro, Hokkaido, Japan
| | - Bumduuren Tuvshintulga
- National Research Center for Protozoan Diseases, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro, Hokkaido, Japan
| | - Arifin Budiman Nugraha
- National Research Center for Protozoan Diseases, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro, Hokkaido, Japan.,Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, IPB University, Indonesia
| | - Believe Ahedor
- National Research Center for Protozoan Diseases, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro, Hokkaido, Japan.,Department of Animal Experimentation, Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research, University of Ghana, Legon, Accra, Ghana
| | - Lehlohonolo Mofokeng
- Unit for Environmental Sciences and Management, North-West University, Potchefstroom Campus, Potchefstroom, South Africa
| | - Joshua Luka
- Department of Veterinary Parasitology and Entomology, University of Maiduguri, Maiduguri, Nigeria
| | - Ali Mohammed
- Department of Veterinary Parasitology and Entomology, University of Maiduguri, Maiduguri, Nigeria
| | - Albert W Mbaya
- Department of Veterinary Parasitology and Entomology, University of Maiduguri, Maiduguri, Nigeria
| | - Abdullahi A Biu
- Department of Veterinary Parasitology and Entomology, University of Maiduguri, Maiduguri, Nigeria
| | - Naoaki Yokoyama
- National Research Center for Protozoan Diseases, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro, Hokkaido, Japan
| | - Oriel Thekisoe
- Unit for Environmental Sciences and Management, North-West University, Potchefstroom Campus, Potchefstroom, South Africa
| |
Collapse
|