1
|
Liu Y, Niu J, Cui J, Rao H, Yu J. Prevalence and molecular detection of Babesia microti in rodents in Southeastern Shanxi, China. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0306181. [PMID: 38959227 PMCID: PMC11221649 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0306181] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2024] [Accepted: 06/12/2024] [Indexed: 07/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Babesia is a tick-transmitted parasite that infects wild and domestic animals, causes babesiosis in humans, and is an increasing public health concern. Here, we investigated the prevalence and molecular characteristics of Babesia infections in the rodents in Southeastern Shanxi, China. Small rodents were captured, and the liver and spleen tissues were used for Babesia detection using traditional PCR and sequencing of the partial 18S rRNA gene. The analysis revealed that 27 of 252 small rodents were positive for Babesia, with an infection rate of 10.71%. The infection rates in different sexes and rodent tissues were not statistically different, but those in different rodent species, habitats, and sampling sites were statistically different. The highest risk of Babesia infection was observed in Niviventer confucianus captured from the forests in Huguan County. Forty-three sequences from 27 small rodents positive for Babesia infection were identified as Babesia microti, including 42 sequences from 26 N. confucianus, and one sequence from Apodemus agrarius. Phylogenetic analysis showed that all sequences were clustered together and had the closest genetic relationship with Babesia microti strains isolated from Rattus losea and N. confucianus in China, and belonged to the Kobe-type, which is pathogenic to humans. Compared to other Kobe-type strains based on the nearly complete 18S rRNA gene, the sequences obtained in this study showed the difference by 1-3 bp. Overall, a high prevalence of Babesia microti infection was observed in small rodents in Southeastern Shanxi, China, which could benefit us to take the implementation of relevant prevention and control measures in this area.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yiping Liu
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Changzhi Medical College, Changzhi, China
| | - Jingrong Niu
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Changzhi Medical College, Changzhi, China
| | - Jia Cui
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Changzhi Medical College, Changzhi, China
| | - Huaxiang Rao
- Department of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Changzhi Medical College, Changzhi, China
| | - Juan Yu
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Changzhi Medical College, Changzhi, China
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Taylor-Salmon E, Shapiro ED. Tick-borne infections in children in North America. Curr Opin Pediatr 2024; 36:156-163. [PMID: 38167816 PMCID: PMC10932821 DOI: 10.1097/mop.0000000000001326] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Because both incidence and awareness of tick-borne infections is increasing, review of major infections and recent advances related to their diagnosis and management is important. RECENT FINDINGS A new algorithm, termed modified two-tier testing, for testing for antibodies to Borrelia burgdorferi , the cause of Lyme disease, has been approved and may replace traditional two-tier testing. In addition, doxycycline is now acceptable to use for treatment of and/or prophylaxis for Lyme disease for up to 21 days in children of any age. Borrelia miyamotoi , a bacterium in the relapsing fever type of Borrelia, is the first of this type of Borrelia that is transmitted by hard-bodied ticks such as Ixodes scapularis. SUMMARY Awareness of these infections and advances in their diagnosis and treatment is important to assure the best outcomes for affected patients. Table 1 contains a summary of infections discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Emma Taylor-Salmon
- Department of Pediatrics, Yale School of Medicine
- Department of Epidemiology of Microbial Diseases, Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Eugene D Shapiro
- Department of Pediatrics, Yale School of Medicine
- Department of Epidemiology of Microbial Diseases, Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Tijani MK, Svensson J, Adlerborn P, Danielsson L, Teleka A, Lövmar ML, Lindgren PE, Forsberg P, Persson KEM. How to Detect Antibodies Against Babesia divergens in Human Blood Samples. Open Forum Infect Dis 2024; 11:ofae028. [PMID: 38328497 PMCID: PMC10849114 DOI: 10.1093/ofid/ofae028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2023] [Accepted: 01/12/2024] [Indexed: 02/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Today only indirect fluorescent antibody assays (IFAs) are commercially available to detect antibodies against Babesia divergens in humans. IFA is subjective and requires highly experienced staff. We have therefore developed an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA)-based method for measuring anti-B. divergens immunoglobulin G antibodies in human blood samples. Methods Crude merozoite extract from in vitro cultures of a new B. divergens isolate was used in ELISA to detect antibodies in different sets of samples: Borrelia burgdorferi-positive samples, healthy individuals, tick-bitten individuals including follow-up samples 3 months later, positive control samples from patients with an active Babesia infection, and samples from malaria-endemic regions. As a reference, IFA was used to detect antibodies in the tick-bitten samples. Western blot was used to evaluate reactions against specific bands in extracts with/without parasites. Results Using IFA as the reference method, the sensitivity and specificity of the ELISA were 86% (12/14) and 100% (52/52). There was a very high correlation (r = -0.84; P = .0004) between IFA dilution factors and ELISA absorbances among the samples classified as positive. Five percent of the B. burgdorferi-positive samples were judged as weakly positive and 5% as strongly positive in our ELISA. Western blot showed that the immunodominant antigens (∼120 kDa) were from merozoites and not from erythrocytes. Conclusions This ELISA can detect antibodies directed against B. divergens, and it can be a useful and easy assay to handle compared with IFA. The ELISA can also measure high and low levels of antibodies, which could give insight into the recency of a B. divergens infection.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Joel Svensson
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
- Clinical Chemistry and Pharmacology, Laboratory Medicine, Office for Medical Services, Region Skåne, Lund, Sweden
- Laboratory Medicine, Unilabs, Skaraborg Hospital Skövde, Skövde, Sweden
| | - Paula Adlerborn
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
- Clinical Chemistry and Pharmacology, Laboratory Medicine, Office for Medical Services, Region Skåne, Lund, Sweden
| | - Lena Danielsson
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
- Clinical Chemistry and Pharmacology, Laboratory Medicine, Office for Medical Services, Region Skåne, Lund, Sweden
| | - Alexandra Teleka
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Matilda Ljungqvist Lövmar
- Department of Clinical Microbiology, Region Jönköping County, Jönköping, Sweden
- Division of Inflammation and Infection, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Per-Eric Lindgren
- Department of Clinical Microbiology, Region Jönköping County, Jönköping, Sweden
- Division of Inflammation and Infection, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Pia Forsberg
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Kristina E M Persson
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
- Clinical Chemistry and Pharmacology, Laboratory Medicine, Office for Medical Services, Region Skåne, Lund, Sweden
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Wu S, Meng J, Yu F, Zhou C, Yang B, Chen X, Yang G, Sun Y, Cao W, Jiang J, Wu J, Zhan L. Molecular epidemiological investigation of piroplasms carried by pet cats and dogs in an animal hospital in Guiyang, China. Front Microbiol 2023; 14:1266583. [PMID: 37901826 PMCID: PMC10602747 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2023.1266583] [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: 07/25/2023] [Accepted: 09/25/2023] [Indexed: 10/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Piroplasmosis is a zoonotic disease mainly caused by the Babesia and Theileria parasites. Piroplasmosis is often a subclinical infection in dogs and cats that is difficult to detect and is often suspected when clinical signs such as anemia are present. It has been reported to be prevalent in China. However, molecular evidence of the disease has not been reported in pet dogs and cats in Guiyang. In this study, we collected 307 anticoagulated blood samples from an animal hospital in the Wudang District of Guiyang during the period March 2021 to November 2021 and extracted DNA from the samples. The 18S rDNA gene was amplified using PCR, and the positive amplification product was sequenced. The sequences were then analyzed for homology and phylogeny. Of the 307 samples collected, 164 were feline and 143 were canine, with a total of 23 amplifying a target band of approximately 400 bp. The percentage of positives of piroplasms infection in pet cats was 4.27% (7/164), with the pathogens being T. uilenbergi (3) and T. luwenshuni (4). One Colpodella sp. and two undetermined species were also detected in the cat samples. The percentage of positives of piroplasms infection in pet dogs was 7.69% (11/143), with the pathogen being T. uilenbergi (11). One Colpodella sp. was also detected in the dog samples. The results confirmed that T. uilenbergi and T. luwenshuni are prevalent in pet cats and dogs in this area. In addition, the study found a rare zoonotic pathogen, Colpodella sp., in cats and dogs. Therefore, this study is expected to serve as a valuable reference for decision-making regarding animal health management and public health work.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shengchun Wu
- School of Public Health, The Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution Monitoring and Disease Control, Ministry of Education, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, China
| | - Jiao Meng
- School of Public Health, The Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution Monitoring and Disease Control, Ministry of Education, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, China
| | - Fuxun Yu
- NHC Key Laboratory of Pulmonary Immune-related Diseases, Guizhou Provincial People’s Hospital, Guiyang, China
| | - Caomin Zhou
- Renal Division, Department of Medicine, Guizhou Provincial People’s Hospital, Guizhou Provincial Institute of Nephritic and Urinary Disease, Guiyang, China
| | - Bin Yang
- NHC Key Laboratory of Pulmonary Immune-related Diseases, Guizhou Provincial People’s Hospital, Guiyang, China
| | - Xingxing Chen
- NHC Key Laboratory of Pulmonary Immune-related Diseases, Guizhou Provincial People’s Hospital, Guiyang, China
| | - Guanghong Yang
- Guizhou Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Guiyang, China
| | - Yi Sun
- Beijing Institute of Microbiology and Epidemiology, Academy of Military Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Wuchun Cao
- Beijing Institute of Microbiology and Epidemiology, Academy of Military Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Jiafu Jiang
- Beijing Institute of Microbiology and Epidemiology, Academy of Military Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Jiahong Wu
- School of Public Health, The Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution Monitoring and Disease Control, Ministry of Education, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, China
| | - Lin Zhan
- NHC Key Laboratory of Pulmonary Immune-related Diseases, Guizhou Provincial People’s Hospital, Guiyang, China
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Wang K, Zu H, Upadhyay A, Zhao J, Liao C, Guan Q, Wang J, Han Q. Epidemiological and phylogenetic investigation of Babesia spp. in dogs of Hainan Province/Island, China. Parasitol Res 2023; 122:2379-2383. [PMID: 37615736 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-023-07939-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2023] [Accepted: 08/06/2023] [Indexed: 08/25/2023]
Abstract
Babesiosis is a significant tick-borne disease, which is globally prevalent. Many previous research studies have discussed the presence of Babesia gibsoni, Babesia vogeli, and Babesia canis in dogs in China. In the present study, we have used distinct molecular approaches to detect the presence of Babesia spp. in dogs of Hainan Province/Island, China. A total of 1106 dog blood samples were collected from the Island, of which 61 dog samples were found to be positive for Babesia vogeli. The highest infection rate was 56.7% (17/30) detected from Tunchang, followed by 25.0% (3/12) from Baisha and 10.4% (5/48) from Wenchang. There was only one positive case of Babesia gibsoni, and the infection rate was found to be 0.1% (1/1106). The sequencing results showed that the subjected sample sequences were identical and resembled the Babesia vogeli and Babesia gibsoni sequences available in the database. The results derived from this study will be helpful for planning effective strategies for the treatment, control, and prevention of babesiosis in dogs of Hainan Province/Island.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kaidong Wang
- One Health Institute, Hainan University, Haikou, 570228, Hainan, China
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Hainan University, Haikou, 570228, Hainan, China
- Laboratory of Tropical Veterinary Medicine and Vector Biology, School of Life Sciences, Hainan University, Haikou, 570228, Hainan, China
| | - Haiyue Zu
- One Health Institute, Hainan University, Haikou, 570228, Hainan, China
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Hainan University, Haikou, 570228, Hainan, China
- Laboratory of Tropical Veterinary Medicine and Vector Biology, School of Life Sciences, Hainan University, Haikou, 570228, Hainan, China
| | - Archana Upadhyay
- One Health Institute, Hainan University, Haikou, 570228, Hainan, China
- Laboratory of Tropical Veterinary Medicine and Vector Biology, School of Life Sciences, Hainan University, Haikou, 570228, Hainan, China
| | - Jianguo Zhao
- One Health Institute, Hainan University, Haikou, 570228, Hainan, China
- Laboratory of Tropical Veterinary Medicine and Vector Biology, School of Life Sciences, Hainan University, Haikou, 570228, Hainan, China
| | - Chenghong Liao
- One Health Institute, Hainan University, Haikou, 570228, Hainan, China
- Laboratory of Tropical Veterinary Medicine and Vector Biology, School of Life Sciences, Hainan University, Haikou, 570228, Hainan, China
| | - Qingfeng Guan
- One Health Institute, Hainan University, Haikou, 570228, Hainan, China
- Laboratory of Tropical Veterinary Medicine and Vector Biology, School of Life Sciences, Hainan University, Haikou, 570228, Hainan, China
| | - Jinhua Wang
- One Health Institute, Hainan University, Haikou, 570228, Hainan, China.
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Hainan University, Haikou, 570228, Hainan, China.
- Laboratory of Tropical Veterinary Medicine and Vector Biology, School of Life Sciences, Hainan University, Haikou, 570228, Hainan, China.
| | - Qian Han
- One Health Institute, Hainan University, Haikou, 570228, Hainan, China.
- Laboratory of Tropical Veterinary Medicine and Vector Biology, School of Life Sciences, Hainan University, Haikou, 570228, Hainan, China.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Calvopiña M, Montesdeoca-Andrade M, Bastidas-Caldes C, Enriquez S, Rodríguez-Hidalgo R, Aguilar-Rodríguez D, Cooper P. Case report: First report on human infection by tick-borne Babesia bigemina in the Amazon region of Ecuador. Front Public Health 2023; 11:1079042. [PMID: 37601195 PMCID: PMC10436305 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1079042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2022] [Accepted: 07/17/2023] [Indexed: 08/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Babesiosis is a protozoan disease acquired by the bite of different species of ticks. More than 100 Babesia spp. infect wild and domestic animals worldwide, but only a few have been documented to infect humans. Generally, babesiosis is asymptomatic in immunocompetent persons; however, in immunocompromised can be life-threatening. A 13-year-old boy from the Amazon region presented with a 3-month evolution of fever, chills, general malaise, and arthralgia accompanied by anemia and jaundice. In the last 4 years was diagnosed with chronic kidney failure. By nested-PCR using 18S RNA ribosomal gene as target and DNA sequencing, the phylogenetic analysis showed Babesia bigemina as the causative agent in the blood. Treatment with oral quinine plus clindamycin for six continuous weeks was effective with no relapse occurring during 12 months of follow-up. This is the second human case in Ecuador but the first caused by the zoonotic B. bigemina which confirms the existence of active transmission that should alert public health decision-making authorities on the emergence of this zoonosis and the need for research to determine strategies to reduce tick exposure.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Manuel Calvopiña
- One Health Research Group, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de las Américas (UDLA), Quito, Ecuador
| | | | - Carlos Bastidas-Caldes
- One Health Research Group, Facultad de Ingeniería y Ciencias Aplicadas (FICA), Universidad de las Américas (UDLA), Quito, Ecuador
- Programa de Doctorado en Salud Pública y Animal, Universidad de Extremadura, Cáceres, Extremadura, Spain
| | - Sandra Enriquez
- Instituto de Investigación en Zoonosis (CIZ), Universidad Central del Ecuador, Quito, Ecuador
| | - Richar Rodríguez-Hidalgo
- Instituto de Investigación en Zoonosis (CIZ), Universidad Central del Ecuador, Quito, Ecuador
- Facultad de Medicina Veterinaria y Zootecnia, Universidad Central del Ecuador, Quito, Ecuador
| | | | - Philip Cooper
- Escuela de Medicina, Universidad Internacional del Ecuador, Quito, Ecuador
- Institute of Infection and Immunity, St. George's University of London, London, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Tijani MK, Danielsson L, Storry JR, Olsson ML, Persson KEM. Babesia divergens Shows Equal Predilection for Human ABO Blood Types in an In Vitro Erythrocyte Preference Assay. Pathogens 2023; 12:803. [PMID: 37375493 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens12060803] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2023] [Revised: 05/22/2023] [Accepted: 05/31/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Babesia is spread to humans via ticks or blood transfusions. Severity of Plasmodium falciparum malaria is strongly correlated to the ABO blood group of the patient. Babesia divergens is an intraerythrocytic parasite with many similarities to malaria, but the impact of ABO on the susceptibility to and progression of the infection in humans is unknown. We have now cultured B. divergens in human group A, B and O erythrocytes in vitro and measured rates of multiplication. The predilection for the different erythrocyte types was also determined using an in vitro erythrocyte preference assay when the parasites were grown in group A, B or O erythrocytes over time and then offered to invade differently stained erythrocytes of all the blood types at the same time. The results showed no difference in multiplication rates for the different blood types, and the parasite exhibited no obvious morphological differences in the different blood types. When cultured first in one blood type and then offered to grow in the others, the preference assay showed that there was no difference between the A, B or O blood groups. In conclusion, this indicates that individuals of the different ABO blood types are likely to be equally susceptible to B. divergens infections.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Muyideen K Tijani
- Cellular Parasitology Programme, Cell Biology and Genetics Unit, Department of Zoology, University of Ibadan, Ibadan 200132, Nigeria
- Division of Clinical Chemistry and Pharmacology, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Lund University, 22185 Lund, Sweden
| | - Lena Danielsson
- Division of Clinical Chemistry and Pharmacology, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Lund University, 22185 Lund, Sweden
- Clinical Chemistry and Pharmacology, Laboratory Medicine, Office for Medical Services, Region Skåne, 22185 Lund, Sweden
| | - Jill R Storry
- Division of Hematology and Transfusion Medicine, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Lund University, 22185 Lund, Sweden
- Department of Clinical Immunology and Transfusion Medicine, Office for Medical Services, Region Skåne, 22185 Lund, Sweden
| | - Martin L Olsson
- Division of Hematology and Transfusion Medicine, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Lund University, 22185 Lund, Sweden
- Department of Clinical Immunology and Transfusion Medicine, Office for Medical Services, Region Skåne, 22185 Lund, Sweden
| | - Kristina E M Persson
- Division of Clinical Chemistry and Pharmacology, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Lund University, 22185 Lund, Sweden
- Clinical Chemistry and Pharmacology, Laboratory Medicine, Office for Medical Services, Region Skåne, 22185 Lund, Sweden
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Morrissette N, Abbaali I, Ramakrishnan C, Hehl AB. The Tubulin Superfamily in Apicomplexan Parasites. Microorganisms 2023; 11:microorganisms11030706. [PMID: 36985278 PMCID: PMC10056924 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms11030706] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2023] [Revised: 03/03/2023] [Accepted: 03/06/2023] [Indexed: 03/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Microtubules and specialized microtubule-containing structures are assembled from tubulins, an ancient superfamily of essential eukaryotic proteins. Here, we use bioinformatic approaches to analyze features of tubulins in organisms from the phylum Apicomplexa. Apicomplexans are protozoan parasites that cause a variety of human and animal infectious diseases. Individual species harbor one to four genes each for α- and β-tubulin isotypes. These may specify highly similar proteins, suggesting functional redundancy, or exhibit key differences, consistent with specialized roles. Some, but not all apicomplexans harbor genes for δ- and ε-tubulins, which are found in organisms that construct appendage-containing basal bodies. Critical roles for apicomplexan δ- and ε-tubulin are likely to be limited to microgametes, consistent with a restricted requirement for flagella in a single developmental stage. Sequence divergence or the loss of δ- and ε-tubulin genes in other apicomplexans appears to be associated with diminished requirements for centrioles, basal bodies, and axonemes. Finally, because spindle microtubules and flagellar structures have been proposed as targets for anti-parasitic therapies and transmission-blocking strategies, we discuss these ideas in the context of tubulin-based structures and tubulin superfamily properties.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Naomi Morrissette
- Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA 92697, USA
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-949-824-9243
| | - Izra Abbaali
- Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA 92697, USA
| | - Chandra Ramakrishnan
- Institute for Parasitology, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstrasse 266a, 8057 Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Adrian B. Hehl
- Institute for Parasitology, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstrasse 266a, 8057 Zürich, Switzerland
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Hildebrandt A, Gray J, Montero E. Characteristics of Human Babesiosis in Europe. Pathogens 2023; 12:pathogens12020323. [PMID: 36839594 PMCID: PMC9961061 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens12020323] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2023] [Accepted: 02/07/2023] [Indexed: 02/17/2023] Open
Abstract
One of the Editor's choice articles in 2021 published in Pathogens was a review of human babesiosis in Europe [...].
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anke Hildebrandt
- Department of Internal Medicine I, St. Vincenz Hospital Datteln, 45711 Datteln, Germany
- Institute of Medical Microbiology, University Hospital Münster, 48149 Münster, Germany
- Correspondence:
| | - Jeremy Gray
- UCD School of Biology and Environmental Science, University College Dublin, D04 N2E5 Dublin, Ireland
| | - Estrella Montero
- Parasitology Reference and Research Laboratory, Centro Nacional de Microbiología, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Majadahonda, 28220 Madrid, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Comparative analysis of the mitochondrial genome of Dermacentor steini from different regions in China. Parasitology 2023; 150:195-205. [PMID: 36482713 PMCID: PMC10090625 DOI: 10.1017/s0031182022001639] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Ticks are a group of blood-sucking ectoparasites that play an important role in human health and livestock production development as vectors of zoonotic diseases. The phylogenetic tree of single genes cannot accurately reflect the true kinship between species. Based on the complete mitochondrial genome analysis one can help to elucidate the phylogenetic relationships among species. In this study, the complete mitochondrial genome of Dermacentor steini (isolate Longyan) was sequenced and compared with the mitochondrial genes of 3 other Chinese isolates (Nanchang, Jinhua and Yingtan). In Dermacentor steini 4 isolates had identical or similar mitochondrial genome lengths and an overall variation of 0.76% between sequences. All nucleotide compositions showed a distinct AT preference. The most common initiation and stop codons were ATG and TAA, respectively. Fewer base mismatches were found in the tRNA gene of D. steini (isolate Longyan), and the vicinity of the control region and tRNA gene was a hot rearrangement region of the genus Dermacentor. Maximum likelihood trees and Bayesian trees indicate that D. steini is most closely related to Dermacentor auratus. The results enrich the mitochondrial genomic data of species in the genus Dermacentor and provide novel insights for further studies on the phylogeographic classification and molecular evolution of ticks.
Collapse
|
11
|
Jajosky RP, O’Bryan J, Spichler-Moffarah A, Jajosky PG, Krause PJ, Tonnetti L. The impact of ABO and RhD blood types on Babesia microti infection. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2023; 17:e0011060. [PMID: 36696414 PMCID: PMC9901808 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0011060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2022] [Revised: 02/06/2023] [Accepted: 12/23/2022] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Babesiosis is an emerging infectious disease caused by intraerythrocytic Babesia parasites that can cause severe disease and death. While blood type is known to affect the mortality of Plasmodium falciparum malaria patients, associations between red blood cell (RBC) antigens and Babesia microti infection and disease severity are lacking. METHODS We evaluated RhD and ABO blood types of Babesia-infected (18S rRNA reactive) blood donors in 10 endemic states in the Northeastern and northern Midwestern United States. We also assessed possible associations between RhD and ABO blood types and disease severity among hospitalized babesiosis patients in Connecticut. RESULTS A total of 768 Babesia-infected blood donors were analyzed, of which 750 (97.7%) had detectable B. microti-specific antibodies. B. microti-infected blood donors were more likely to be RhD- (OR of 1.22, p-value 0.024) than RhD+ donors. Hospitalized RhD- babesiosis patients were more likely than RhD+ patients to have high peak parasitemia (p-value 0.017), which is a marker for disease severity. No differences in RhD+ blood type were noted between residents of the Northeast (OR of 0.82, p-value 0.033) and the Midwest (OR of 0.74, p-value 0.23). Overall, ABO blood type was not associated with blood donor B. microti infection, however, B. microti-infected donors in Maine and New Jersey were more likely to be blood type B compared to non-type B (OR 2.49 [p = 0.008] and 2.07 [p = 0.009], respectively), while infected donors from Pennsylvania were less likely to be type B compared to non-type B (OR 0.32 [p = 0.02]). CONCLUSIONS People expressing RhD antigen may have a decreased risk of B. microti infection and babesiosis severity. The association of B antigen with B. microti infection is less clear because the antigen appeared to be less prevalent in infected Pennsylvania blood donors but more prevalent in Maine and New Jersey infected donors. Future studies should quantify associations between B. microti genotypes, RBC antigens, and the frequency and severity of B. microti infection to increase our understanding of human Babesia pathogenesis and improve antibody, vaccine, and RBC exchange transfusion strategies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ryan Philip Jajosky
- Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
- Biconcavity Inc., Lilburn, Georgia, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| | - Jane O’Bryan
- Yale School of Public Health and Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, United States of America
- Frank H. Netter MD School of Medicine, Quinnipiac University, North Haven, Connecticut, United States of America
| | - Anne Spichler-Moffarah
- Yale School of Public Health and Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, United States of America
| | | | - Peter J. Krause
- Yale School of Public Health and Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, United States of America
| | - Laura Tonnetti
- American Red Cross, Rockville, Maryland, United States of America
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Khazai B, Homsi MJ, Anendaga CDM, Reiner E, Everett TJ, Flaherty FT, Hollander MD. Splenic artery embolization for spontaneous splenic rupture due to Babesiosis: a case report. Radiol Case Rep 2022; 17:2304-2308. [PMID: 35570864 PMCID: PMC9095666 DOI: 10.1016/j.radcr.2022.03.105] [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: 03/24/2022] [Accepted: 03/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Babesiosis incidence in the United States has been increasing with an 11% rise between 2018 and 2019 based on the latest CDC annual summary, reaching its highest ever reported incidence. This primarily tick-borne disease is particularly prevalent in New England. Despite predominantly nonspecific and at times subtle symptoms, life-threatening complications do occur. One such complication is splenic rupture which has been suggested to be more common in younger and otherwise healthy individuals. This is a report on a successful splenic artery embolization in a 65-year-old male from upstate New York who, unlike most prior studies, showed splenic rupture after he was discharged with negative parasitemia and general improvement following several days of targeted antibiotic therapy. Increased incidence and various presentations of Babesiosis call for an attempt to promote clinical awareness for radiologists among other specialties.
Collapse
|
13
|
Babesiosis in Southeastern, Central and Northeastern Europe: An Emerging and Re-Emerging Tick-Borne Disease of Humans and Animals. Microorganisms 2022; 10:microorganisms10050945. [PMID: 35630388 PMCID: PMC9146636 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms10050945] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2022] [Revised: 04/19/2022] [Accepted: 04/26/2022] [Indexed: 12/10/2022] Open
Abstract
There is now considerable evidence that in Europe, babesiosis is an emerging infectious disease, with some of the causative species spreading as a consequence of the increasing range of their tick vector hosts. In this review, we summarize both the historic records and recent findings on the occurrence and incidence of babesiosis in 20 European countries located in southeastern Europe (Bosnia and Herzegovina, Croatia, and Serbia), central Europe (Austria, the Czech Republic, Germany, Hungary, Luxembourg, Poland, Slovakia, Slovenia, and Switzerland), and northern and northeastern Europe (Lithuania, Latvia, Estonia, Iceland, Denmark, Finland, Sweden, and Norway), identified in humans and selected species of domesticated animals (cats, dogs, horses, and cattle). Recorded cases of human babesiosis are still rare, but their number is expected to rise in the coming years. This is because of the widespread and longer seasonal activity of Ixodes ricinus as a result of climate change and because of the more extensive use of better molecular diagnostic methods. Bovine babesiosis has a re-emerging potential because of the likely loss of herd immunity, while canine babesiosis is rapidly expanding in central and northeastern Europe, its occurrence correlating with the rapid, successful expansion of the ornate dog tick (Dermacentor reticulatus) populations in Europe. Taken together, our analysis of the available reports shows clear evidence of an increasing annual incidence of babesiosis across Europe in both humans and animals that is changing in line with similar increases in the incidence of other tick-borne diseases. This situation is of major concern, and we recommend more extensive and frequent, standardized monitoring using a “One Health” approach.
Collapse
|
14
|
Hromníková D, Furka D, Furka S, Santana JAD, Ravingerová T, Klöcklerová V, Žitňan D. Prevention of tick-borne diseases: challenge to recent medicine. Biologia (Bratisl) 2022; 77:1533-1554. [PMID: 35283489 PMCID: PMC8905283 DOI: 10.1007/s11756-021-00966-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2021] [Accepted: 11/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Abstract Ticks represent important vectors and reservoirs of pathogens, causing a number of diseases in humans and animals, and significant damage to livestock every year. Modern research into protection against ticks and tick-borne diseases focuses mainly on the feeding stage, i.e. the period when ticks take their blood meal from their hosts during which pathogens are transmitted. Physiological functions in ticks, such as food intake, saliva production, reproduction, development, and others are under control of neuropeptides and peptide hormones which may be involved in pathogen transmission that cause Lyme borreliosis or tick-borne encephalitis. According to current knowledge, ticks are not reservoirs or vectors for the spread of COVID-19 disease. The search for new vaccination methods to protect against ticks and their transmissible pathogens is a challenge for current science in view of global changes, including the increasing migration of the human population. Highlights • Tick-borne diseases have an increasing incidence due to climate change and increased human migration • To date, there is no evidence of transmission of coronavirus COVID-19 by tick as a vector • To date, there are only a few modern, effective, and actively- used vaccines against ticks or tick-borne diseases • Neuropeptides and their receptors expressed in ticks may be potentially used for vaccine design
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dominika Hromníková
- Department of Molecular Physiology, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Institute of Zoology, Dúbravská cesta 9, 84506 Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - Daniel Furka
- Faculty of Natural Sciences, Department of Physical and Theoretical Chemistry, Comenius University, Mlynská dolina, Ilkovičova 6, 84104 Bratislava, SK Slovakia
- Department of Cardiovascular Physiology and Pathophysiology, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Institute of Heart Research, Dúbravská cesta 9, SK 84005 Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - Samuel Furka
- Faculty of Natural Sciences, Department of Physical and Theoretical Chemistry, Comenius University, Mlynská dolina, Ilkovičova 6, 84104 Bratislava, SK Slovakia
- Department of Cardiovascular Physiology and Pathophysiology, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Institute of Heart Research, Dúbravská cesta 9, SK 84005 Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - Julio Ariel Dueñas Santana
- Chemical Engineering Department, University of Matanzas, Km 3 Carretera a Varadero, 44740 Matanzas, CU Cuba
| | - Táňa Ravingerová
- Department of Cardiovascular Physiology and Pathophysiology, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Institute of Heart Research, Dúbravská cesta 9, SK 84005 Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - Vanda Klöcklerová
- Department of Molecular Physiology, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Institute of Zoology, Dúbravská cesta 9, 84506 Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - Dušan Žitňan
- Department of Molecular Physiology, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Institute of Zoology, Dúbravská cesta 9, 84506 Bratislava, Slovakia
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Duncan KT, Grant A, Johnson B, Sundstrom KD, Saleh MN, Little SE. Identification of Rickettsia spp. and Babesia conradae in Dermacentor spp. Collected from Dogs and Cats Across the United States. Vector Borne Zoonotic Dis 2021; 21:911-920. [PMID: 34958266 PMCID: PMC8742288 DOI: 10.1089/vbz.2021.0047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
In the United States, Dermacentor variabilis and Dermacentor andersoni are considered key vectors for Rickettsia rickettsii, the causative agent of Rocky Mountain spotted fever. Through regional surveillance, a wide diversity of Rickettsia spp. have been documented in D. variabilis, and Dermacentor spp. has been suggested as potential vectors for various other pathogens, including Babesia spp. and Ehrlichia canis. To better define the prevalence and diversity of pathogens in Dermacentor spp. across the United States, 848 ticks collected from dogs and cats in 44/50 states in 2018–2019 were tested by PCR for Rickettsia spp.-specific 17 kDa and ompA gene fragments; a subset of Dermacentor spp. was also tested with PCR, targeting fragments of the 18S and large subunit region rRNA genes of Babesia spp. and 16S rRNA genes of E. canis. Rickettsia spp. was identified in 12.5% (106/848) of ticks. Species detected include Rickettsia montanensis (n = 64 ticks), Rickettsia bellii (n = 15 ticks), Rickettsia rhipicephali (n = 13 ticks), Rickettsia peacockii (n = 8 ticks), Rickettsia amblyommatis (n = 3 ticks), Rickettsia cooleyi (n = 1 tick), and unclassified Rickettsia spp. (n = 2 ticks). Ticks with R. montanensis and R. bellii were submitted from every U.S. region; R. rhipicephali was predominantly detected in ticks from the southern half of the United States, and all R. peacockii-positive ticks were D. andersoni that originated from the Rocky Mountain states. Ehrlichia canis was not detected in any Dermacentor spp., and Babesia conradae was detected in two Dermacentor albipictus. Because most ticks had fed on dogs or cats before submission, these findings do not implicate a given Dermacentor sp. as a primary vector of these agents, but in regard to Rickettsia spp., the data do support other published work showing D. variabilis harbors a diversity of Rickettsia species with unknown implications for animal and human health.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kathryn T Duncan
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, Oklahoma, USA
| | - Amber Grant
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, Oklahoma, USA
| | - Britny Johnson
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, Oklahoma, USA.,Rickettsial Zoonoses Branch, Division of Vector-Borne Disease, National Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Infectious Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Kellee D Sundstrom
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, Oklahoma, USA
| | - Meriam N Saleh
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, Oklahoma, USA.,Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas, USA
| | - Susan E Little
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, Oklahoma, USA
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Ebani VV, Mancianti F. Potential Role of Avian Populations in the Epidemiology of Rickettsia spp. and Babesia spp. Vet Sci 2021; 8:vetsci8120334. [PMID: 34941861 PMCID: PMC8709085 DOI: 10.3390/vetsci8120334] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2021] [Revised: 12/15/2021] [Accepted: 12/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Birds often are carriers of hard and/or soft ticks harboring pathogens of humans and veterinary concern. Migratory avian species, which cover long distance by their flight, may deeply influence the ticks’ distribution worldwide; in particular, they can introduce in a given geographic area new tick species and related tick-borne pathogens. Studies about the detection of tick-borne agents in birds are not numerous, whereas more attention has been turned to the presence of these microorganisms in ticks carried by birds. The present review focused on the role of avian populations in the epidemiology of rickettsioses and babesioses, which represent two severe problems for the health of humans and other mammals.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Valentina Virginia Ebani
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Pisa, Viale delle Piagge 2, 56124 Pisa, Italy;
- Centre for Climate Change Impact, University of Pisa, Via del Borghetto 80, 56124 Pisa, Italy
- Interdepartmental Research Center “Nutraceuticals and Food for Health”, University of Pisa, Via del Borghetto 80, 56124 Pisa, Italy
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-050-221-6968
| | - Francesca Mancianti
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Pisa, Viale delle Piagge 2, 56124 Pisa, Italy;
- Interdepartmental Research Center “Nutraceuticals and Food for Health”, University of Pisa, Via del Borghetto 80, 56124 Pisa, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Maggi R, Breitschwerdt EB, Qurollo B, Miller JC. Development of a Multiplex Droplet Digital PCR Assay for the Detection of Babesia, Bartonella, and Borrelia Species. Pathogens 2021; 10:pathogens10111462. [PMID: 34832618 PMCID: PMC8620149 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens10111462] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2021] [Revised: 11/08/2021] [Accepted: 11/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
We describe the development, optimization, and validation of a multiplex droplet digital PCR (ddPCR) assay for the simultaneous detection of Babesia, Bartonella, and Borrelia spp. DNA from several sample matrices, including clinical blood samples from animals and humans, vectors, in-vitro infected human and animal cell lines, and tissues obtained from animal models (infected with Bartonella and/or B. burgdorferi). The multiplex ddPCR assay was able to detect 31 Bartonella, 13 Borrelia, and 24 Babesia species, including Theileria equi, T. cervi, and Cytauxzoon felis. No amplification of Treponema or Leptospira spp. was observed. Sensitivity of 0.2-5 genome equivalent DNA copies per microliter was achieved for different members of the Bartonella and Borrelia genus, depending on the species or matrix type (water or spiked blood DNA) tested. The ddPCR assay facilitated the simultaneous detection of co-infections with two and three vector-borne pathogens comprising four different genera (Babesia, Bartonella, Borrelia, and Theileria) from clinical and other sample sources.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ricardo Maggi
- Department of Clinical Sciences, The Comparative Medicine Institute, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, 1060 William Moore Drive, Raleigh, NC 27607, USA; (E.B.B.); (B.Q.)
- Galaxy Diagnostics, Inc., 6 Davis Drive, Suite 201, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, USA;
- Correspondence:
| | - Edward B. Breitschwerdt
- Department of Clinical Sciences, The Comparative Medicine Institute, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, 1060 William Moore Drive, Raleigh, NC 27607, USA; (E.B.B.); (B.Q.)
- Galaxy Diagnostics, Inc., 6 Davis Drive, Suite 201, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, USA;
| | - Barbara Qurollo
- Department of Clinical Sciences, The Comparative Medicine Institute, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, 1060 William Moore Drive, Raleigh, NC 27607, USA; (E.B.B.); (B.Q.)
| | - Jennifer C. Miller
- Galaxy Diagnostics, Inc., 6 Davis Drive, Suite 201, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, USA;
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Florin-Christensen M, Wieser SN, Suarez CE, Schnittger L. In Silico Survey and Characterization of Babesia microti Functional and Non-Functional Proteases. Pathogens 2021; 10:1457. [PMID: 34832610 PMCID: PMC8621943 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens10111457] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2021] [Revised: 10/29/2021] [Accepted: 11/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Human babesiosis caused by the intraerythrocytic apicomplexan Babesia microti is an expanding tick-borne zoonotic disease that may cause severe symptoms and death in elderly or immunocompromised individuals. In light of an increasing resistance of B. microti to drugs, there is a lack of therapeutic alternatives. Species-specific proteases are essential for parasite survival and possible chemotherapeutic targets. However, the repertoire of proteases in B. microti remains poorly investigated. Herein, we employed several combined bioinformatics tools and strategies to organize and identify genes encoding for the full repertoire of proteases in the B. microti genome. We identified 64 active proteases and 25 nonactive protease homologs. These proteases can be classified into cysteine (n = 28), serine (n = 21), threonine (n = 14), asparagine (n = 7), and metallopeptidases (n = 19), which, in turn, are assigned to a total of 38 peptidase families. Comparative studies between the repertoire of B. bovis and B. microti proteases revealed differences among sensu stricto and sensu lato Babesia parasites that reflect their distinct evolutionary history. Overall, this data may help direct future research towards our understanding of the biology and pathogenicity of Babesia parasites and to explore proteases as targets for developing novel therapeutic interventions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Monica Florin-Christensen
- Instituto de Patobiologia Veterinaria (IPVET), Centro de Investigaciones en Ciencias Veterinarias y Agronomicas, Instituto Nacional de Tecnología Agropecuaria (INTA), Hurlingham C1033AAE, Argentina; (S.N.W.); (L.S.)
- Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Buenos Aires C1033AAJ, Argentina
| | - Sarah N. Wieser
- Instituto de Patobiologia Veterinaria (IPVET), Centro de Investigaciones en Ciencias Veterinarias y Agronomicas, Instituto Nacional de Tecnología Agropecuaria (INTA), Hurlingham C1033AAE, Argentina; (S.N.W.); (L.S.)
- Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Buenos Aires C1033AAJ, Argentina
| | - Carlos E. Suarez
- Animal Disease Research Unit, USDA-ARS, Pullman, WA 99163, USA;
- Department of Veterinary Microbiology and Pathology, Washington State University, Pullman, WA 99163, USA
| | - Leonhard Schnittger
- Instituto de Patobiologia Veterinaria (IPVET), Centro de Investigaciones en Ciencias Veterinarias y Agronomicas, Instituto Nacional de Tecnología Agropecuaria (INTA), Hurlingham C1033AAE, Argentina; (S.N.W.); (L.S.)
- Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Buenos Aires C1033AAJ, Argentina
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Bastos RG, Thekkiniath J, Ben Mamoun C, Fuller L, Molestina RE, Florin-Christensen M, Schnittger L, Alzan HF, Suarez CE. Babesia microti Immunoreactive Rhoptry-Associated Protein-1 Paralogs Are Ancestral Members of the Piroplasmid-Confined RAP-1 Family. Pathogens 2021; 10:pathogens10111384. [PMID: 34832541 PMCID: PMC8624774 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens10111384] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2021] [Revised: 10/20/2021] [Accepted: 10/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Babesia, Cytauxzoon and Theileria are tick-borne apicomplexan parasites of the order Piroplasmida, responsible for diseases in humans and animals. Members of the piroplasmid rhoptry-associated protein-1 (pRAP-1) family have a signature cysteine-rich domain and are important for parasite development. We propose that the closely linked B. microti genes annotated as BMR1_03g00947 and BMR1_03g00960 encode two paralogue pRAP-1-like proteins named BmIPA48 and Bm960. The two genes are tandemly arranged head to tail, highly expressed in blood stage parasites, syntenic to rap-1 genes of other piroplasmids, and share large portions of an almost identical ~225 bp sequence located in their 5' putative regulatory regions. BmIPA48 and Bm960 proteins contain a N-terminal signal peptide, share very low sequence identity (<13%) with pRAP-1 from other species, and harbor one or more transmembrane domains. Diversification of the piroplasmid-confined prap-1 family is characterized by amplification of genes, protein domains, and a high sequence polymorphism. This suggests a functional involvement of pRAP-1 at the parasite-host interface, possibly in parasite adhesion, attachment, and/or evasion of the host immune defenses. Both BmIPA48 and Bm960 are recognized by antibodies in sera from humans infected with B. microti and might be promising candidates for developing novel serodiagnosis and vaccines.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Reginaldo G. Bastos
- Department of Veterinary Microbiology and Pathology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Washington State University, Pullman, WA 99164, USA;
- Correspondence: (R.G.B.); (C.E.S.)
| | - Jose Thekkiniath
- Fuller Laboratories, 1312 East Valencia Drive, Fullerton, CA 92831, USA; (J.T.); (L.F.)
| | - Choukri Ben Mamoun
- Section of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA;
| | - Lee Fuller
- Fuller Laboratories, 1312 East Valencia Drive, Fullerton, CA 92831, USA; (J.T.); (L.F.)
| | - Robert E. Molestina
- Protistology Laboratory, American Type Culture Collection, Manassas, VA 10801, USA;
| | - Monica Florin-Christensen
- Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Buenos Aires C1033AAJ, Argentina; (M.F.-C.); (L.S.)
- Instituto de Patobiología Veterinaria, CICVyA, INTA-Castelar, Hurlingham, Buenos Aires C1033AAE, Argentina
| | - Leonhard Schnittger
- Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Buenos Aires C1033AAJ, Argentina; (M.F.-C.); (L.S.)
- Instituto de Patobiología Veterinaria, CICVyA, INTA-Castelar, Hurlingham, Buenos Aires C1033AAE, Argentina
| | - Heba F. Alzan
- Department of Veterinary Microbiology and Pathology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Washington State University, Pullman, WA 99164, USA;
- Parasitology and Animal Diseases Department, National Research Center, Dokki, Giza 12622, Egypt
- Tick and Tick-Borne Disease Research Unit, 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
- Correspondence: (R.G.B.); (C.E.S.)
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Seroprevalence of Antibodies against Tick-Borne Pathogens in Czech Patients with Suspected Post-Treatment Lyme Disease Syndrome. Microorganisms 2021; 9:microorganisms9112217. [PMID: 34835343 PMCID: PMC8619037 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms9112217] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2021] [Revised: 10/15/2021] [Accepted: 10/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The hypothesized importance of coinfections in the pathogenesis of post-treatment Lyme disease syndrome (PTLDS) leads to the use of combined, ongoing antimicrobial treatment in many cases despite the absence of symptoms typical of the presence of infection with specific pathogens. Serum samples from 103 patients with suspected post-treatment Lyme disease syndrome were tested for the presence of antibodies to the major tick-borne pathogens Anaplasma phagocytophilum, Bartonella henselae/Bartonella quinatana, and Babesia microti. Although the presence of anti-Anaplasma antibodies was detected in 12.6% of the samples and anti-Bartonella antibodies in 9.7% of the samples, the presence of antibodies against both pathogens in the same samples or anti-Babesia antibodies in the selected group of patients could not be confirmed. However, we were able to detect autoantibodies, mostly antinuclear, in 11.6% of the patients studied. Our results are in good agreement with previously published studies showing the presence of a wide spectrum of autoantibodies in some patients with complicated forms of Lyme disease and post-treatment Lyme disease syndrome, but they do not reveal a significant influence of co-infections on the development of PTLDS in the studied group of patients.
Collapse
|
21
|
Bajer A, Dwużnik-Szarek D. The specificity of Babesia-tick vector interactions: recent advances and pitfalls in molecular and field studies. Parasit Vectors 2021; 14:507. [PMID: 34583754 PMCID: PMC8480096 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-021-05019-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2021] [Accepted: 09/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Babesia spp. are protozoan parasites of great medical and veterinary importance, especially in the northern Hemisphere. Ticks are known vectors of Babesia spp., although some Babesia-tick interactions have not been fully elucidated. Methods The present review was performed to investigate the specificity of Babesia-tick species interactions that have been identified using molecular techniques in studies conducted in the last 20 years under field conditions. We aimed to indicate the main vectors of important Babesia species based on published research papers (n = 129) and molecular data derived from the GenBank database. Results Repeated observations of certain Babesia species in specific species and genera of ticks in numerous independent studies, carried out in different areas and years, have been considered epidemiological evidence of established Babesia-tick interactions. The best studied species of ticks are Ixodes ricinus, Dermacentor reticulatus and Ixodes scapularis (103 reports, i.e. 80% of total reports). Eco-epidemiological studies have confirmed a specific relationship between Babesia microti and Ixodes ricinus, Ixodes persulcatus, and Ixodes scapularis and also between Babesia canis and D. reticulatus. Additionally, four Babesia species (and one genotype), which have different deer species as reservoir hosts, displayed specificity to the I. ricinus complex. Eco-epidemiological studies do not support interactions between a high number of Babesia spp. and I. ricinus or D. reticulatus. Interestingly, pioneering studies on other species and genera of ticks have revealed the existence of likely new Babesia species, which need more scientific attention. Finally, we discuss the detection of Babesia spp. in feeding ticks and critically evaluate the data on the role of the latter as vectors. Conclusions Epidemiological data have confirmed the specificity of certain Babesia-tick vector interactions. The massive amount of data that has been thus far collected for the most common tick species needs to be complemented by more intensive studies on Babesia infections in underrepresented tick species. Graphical abstract ![]()
Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13071-021-05019-3.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anna Bajer
- Department of Eco-Epidemiology of Parasitic Diseases, Institute of Developmental Biology and Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Biology, University of Warsaw, Miecznikowa 1, 02-096, Warsaw, Poland.
| | - Dorota Dwużnik-Szarek
- Department of Eco-Epidemiology of Parasitic Diseases, Institute of Developmental Biology and Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Biology, University of Warsaw, Miecznikowa 1, 02-096, Warsaw, Poland
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Hildebrandt A, Zintl A, Montero E, Hunfeld KP, Gray J. Human Babesiosis in Europe. Pathogens 2021; 10:1165. [PMID: 34578196 PMCID: PMC8468516 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens10091165] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2021] [Revised: 08/26/2021] [Accepted: 09/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Babesiosis is attracting increasing attention as a worldwide emerging zoonosis. The first case of human babesiosis in Europe was described in the late 1950s and since then more than 60 cases have been reported in Europe. While the disease is relatively rare in Europe, it is significant because the majority of cases present as life-threatening fulminant infections, mainly in immunocompromised patients. Although appearing clinically similar to human babesiosis elsewhere, particularly in the USA, most European forms of the disease are distinct entities, especially concerning epidemiology, human susceptibility to infection and clinical management. This paper describes the history of the disease and reviews all published cases that have occurred in Europe with regard to the identity and genetic characteristics of the etiological agents, pathogenesis, aspects of epidemiology including the eco-epidemiology of the vectors, the clinical courses of infection, diagnostic tools and clinical management and treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anke Hildebrandt
- St. Vincenz Hospital Datteln, Department of Internal Medicine I, 45711 Datteln, Germany;
- Institute of Medical Microbiology, University Hospital Münster, 48149 Münster, Germany
| | - Annetta Zintl
- UCD School of Veterinary Sciences, University College Dublin, D04 W6F6 Dublin, Ireland;
| | - Estrella Montero
- Parasitology Reference and Research Laboratory, Centro Nacional de Microbiología, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Majadahonda, 28220 Madrid, Spain;
| | - Klaus-Peter Hunfeld
- Institute of Laboratory Medicine, Microbiology & Infection Control, Northwest Medical Center, Medical Faculty Goethe University Frankfurt, Steinbacher Hohl 2-26, 60488 Frankfurt am Main, Germany;
- Society for Promoting Quality Assurance in Medical Laboratories (INSTAND, e.v.), Ubierstraße 20, 40223 Düsseldorf, Germany
- ESGBOR Study Group of the European Society for Clinical Microbiology & Infectious Diseases (ESCMID), ESCMID Executive Office, P.O. Box 214, 4010 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Jeremy Gray
- UCD School of Biology and Environmental Science, University College Dublin, D04 N2E5 Dublin, Ireland
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Novel Protozoans in Austria Revealed through the Use of Dogs as Sentinels for Ticks and Tick-Borne Pathogens. Microorganisms 2021; 9:microorganisms9071392. [PMID: 34203236 PMCID: PMC8306317 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms9071392] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2021] [Revised: 06/23/2021] [Accepted: 06/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
We previously isolated and cultivated the novel Rickettsia raoultii strain Jongejan. This prompted us to ask whether this strain is unique or more widely present in Austria. To assess this issue, we retrospectively screened ticks collected from dogs in 2008. Of these collected ticks, we randomly selected 75 (47 females and 28 males) Dermacentor reticulatus, 44 (21 females, 7 males, and 16 nymphs) Haemaphysalis concinna, and 55 (52 females and 3 males) ticks of the Ixodes ricinus complex. Subsequently, these ticks were individually screened for the presence of tick-borne pathogens using the reverse line blot hybridization assay. In our current study, we detected DNA from the following microbes in D. reticulatus: Anaplasma phagocytophilum, Borrelia lusitaniae, Borrelia spielmanii, Borrelia valaisiana, and R. raoultii, all of which were R. raoultii strain Jongejan. In H. concinna, we found DNA of a Babesia sp., Rickettsia helvetica, and an organism closely related to Theileria capreoli. Lastly, I. ricinus was positive for Anaplasma phagocytophilum, Borrelia afzelii, Borrelia burgdorferi sensu stricto, Borrelia garinii/Borrelia bavariensis, B. lusitaniae, B. spielmanii, B. valaisiana, Candidatus Neoehrlichia mikurensis, Rickettsia helvetica, Rickettsia monacensis, and Theileria (Babesia) microti DNA. The detection of DNA of the Babesia sp. and an organism closely related to Theileria capreoli, both found in H. concinna ticks, is novel for Austria.
Collapse
|
24
|
Kotál J, Buša M, Urbanová V, Řezáčová P, Chmelař J, Langhansová H, Sojka D, Mareš M, Kotsyfakis M. Mialostatin, a Novel Midgut Cystatin from Ixodes ricinus Ticks: Crystal Structure and Regulation of Host Blood Digestion. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:5371. [PMID: 34065290 PMCID: PMC8161381 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22105371] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2021] [Revised: 05/13/2021] [Accepted: 05/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The hard tick Ixodes ricinus is a vector of Lyme disease and tick-borne encephalitis. Host blood protein digestion, essential for tick development and reproduction, occurs in tick midgut digestive cells driven by cathepsin proteases. Little is known about the regulation of the digestive proteolytic machinery of I. ricinus. Here we characterize a novel cystatin-type protease inhibitor, mialostatin, from the I. ricinus midgut. Blood feeding rapidly induced mialostatin expression in the gut, which continued after tick detachment. Recombinant mialostatin inhibited a number of I. ricinus digestive cysteine cathepsins, with the greatest potency observed against cathepsin L isoforms, with which it co-localized in midgut digestive cells. The crystal structure of mialostatin was determined at 1.55 Å to explain its unique inhibitory specificity. Finally, mialostatin effectively blocked in vitro proteolysis of blood proteins by midgut cysteine cathepsins. Mialostatin is likely to be involved in the regulation of gut-associated proteolytic pathways, making midgut cystatins promising targets for tick control strategies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jan Kotál
- Institute of Parasitology, Biology Centre, Academy of Sciences of the Czech Republic, Branišovská 1160/31, 37005 České Budějovice, Czech Republic; (J.K.); (V.U.); (D.S.)
- Department of Medical Biology, Faculty of Science, University of South Bohemia in České Budějovice, Branišovská 1760c, 37005 České Budějovice, Czech Republic; (J.C.); (H.L.)
| | - Michal Buša
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry, Academy of Sciences of the Czech Republic, Flemingovo n. 2, 16610 Praha, Czech Republic; (M.B.); (P.Ř.)
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Hlavova 2030/8, 12800 Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Veronika Urbanová
- Institute of Parasitology, Biology Centre, Academy of Sciences of the Czech Republic, Branišovská 1160/31, 37005 České Budějovice, Czech Republic; (J.K.); (V.U.); (D.S.)
| | - Pavlína Řezáčová
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry, Academy of Sciences of the Czech Republic, Flemingovo n. 2, 16610 Praha, Czech Republic; (M.B.); (P.Ř.)
| | - Jindřich Chmelař
- Department of Medical Biology, Faculty of Science, University of South Bohemia in České Budějovice, Branišovská 1760c, 37005 České Budějovice, Czech Republic; (J.C.); (H.L.)
| | - Helena Langhansová
- Department of Medical Biology, Faculty of Science, University of South Bohemia in České Budějovice, Branišovská 1760c, 37005 České Budějovice, Czech Republic; (J.C.); (H.L.)
| | - Daniel Sojka
- Institute of Parasitology, Biology Centre, Academy of Sciences of the Czech Republic, Branišovská 1160/31, 37005 České Budějovice, Czech Republic; (J.K.); (V.U.); (D.S.)
| | - Michael Mareš
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry, Academy of Sciences of the Czech Republic, Flemingovo n. 2, 16610 Praha, Czech Republic; (M.B.); (P.Ř.)
| | - Michail Kotsyfakis
- Institute of Parasitology, Biology Centre, Academy of Sciences of the Czech Republic, Branišovská 1160/31, 37005 České Budějovice, Czech Republic; (J.K.); (V.U.); (D.S.)
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Circulation of Babesia Species and Their Exposure to Humans through Ixodes Ricinus. Pathogens 2021; 10:pathogens10040386. [PMID: 33804875 PMCID: PMC8063829 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens10040386] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2021] [Revised: 03/15/2021] [Accepted: 03/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Human babesiosis in Europe has been attributed to infection with Babesia divergens and, to a lesser extent, with Babesia venatorum and Babesia microti, which are all transmitted to humans through a bite of Ixodes ricinus. These Babesia species circulate in the Netherlands, but autochthonous human babesiosis cases have not been reported so far. To gain more insight into the natural sources of these Babesia species, their presence in reservoir hosts and in I. ricinus was examined. Moreover, part of the ticks were tested for co-infections with other tick borne pathogens. In a cross-sectional study, qPCR-detection was used to determine the presence of Babesia species in 4611 tissue samples from 27 mammalian species and 13 bird species. Reverse line blotting (RLB) and qPCR detection of Babesia species were used to test 25,849 questing I. ricinus. Fragments of the 18S rDNA and cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) gene from PCR-positive isolates were sequenced for confirmation and species identification and species-specific PCR reactions were performed on samples with suspected mixed infections. Babesia microti was found in two widespread rodent species: Myodes glareolus and Apodemus sylvaticus, whereas B. divergens was detected in the geographically restricted Cervus elaphus and Bison bonasus, and occasionally in free-ranging Ovis aries. B. venatorum was detected in the ubiquitous Capreolus capreolus, and occasionally in free-ranging O. aries. Species-specific PCR revealed co-infections in C. capreolus and C. elaphus, resulting in higher prevalence of B. venatorum and B. divergens than disclosed by qPCR detection, followed by 18S rDNA and COI sequencing. The non-zoonotic Babesia species found were Babesia capreoli, Babesia vulpes, Babesia sp. deer clade, and badger-associated Babesia species. The infection rate of zoonotic Babesia species in questing I. ricinus ticks was higher for Babesia clade I (2.6%) than Babesia clade X (1.9%). Co-infection of B. microti with Borrelia burgdorferi sensu lato and Neoehrlichia mikurensis in questing nymphs occurred more than expected, which reflects their mutual reservoir hosts, and suggests the possibility of co-transmission of these three pathogens to humans during a tick bite. The ubiquitous spread and abundance of B. microti and B. venatorum in their reservoir hosts and questing ticks imply some level of human exposure through tick bites. The restricted distribution of the wild reservoir hosts for B. divergens and its low infection rate in ticks might contribute to the absence of reported autochthonous cases of human babesiosis in the Netherlands.
Collapse
|