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Klever AM, Alexander KA, Almeida D, Anderson MZ, Ball RL, Beamer G, Boggiatto P, Buikstra JE, Chandler B, Claeys TA, Concha AE, Converse PJ, Derbyshire KM, Dobos KM, Dupnik KM, Endsley JJ, Endsley MA, Fennelly K, Franco-Paredes C, Hagge DA, Hall-Stoodley L, Hayes D, Hirschfeld K, Hofman CA, Honda JR, Hull NM, Kramnik I, Lacourciere K, Lahiri R, Lamont EA, Larsen MH, Lemaire T, Lesellier S, Lee NR, Lowry CA, Mahfooz NS, McMichael TM, Merling MR, Miller MA, Nagajyothi JF, Nelson E, Nuermberger EL, Pena MT, Perea C, Podell BK, Pyle CJ, Quinn FD, Rajaram MVS, Mejia OR, Rothoff M, Sago SA, Salvador LCM, Simonson AW, Spencer JS, Sreevatsan S, Subbian S, Sunstrum J, Tobin DM, Vijayan KKV, Wright CTO, Robinson RT. The Many Hosts of Mycobacteria 9 (MHM9): A conference report. Tuberculosis (Edinb) 2023; 142:102377. [PMID: 37531864 PMCID: PMC10529179 DOI: 10.1016/j.tube.2023.102377] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2023] [Revised: 07/10/2023] [Accepted: 07/17/2023] [Indexed: 08/04/2023]
Abstract
The Many Hosts of Mycobacteria (MHM) meeting series brings together basic scientists, clinicians and veterinarians to promote robust discussion and dissemination of recent advances in our knowledge of numerous mycobacterial diseases, including human and bovine tuberculosis (TB), nontuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) infection, Hansen's disease (leprosy), Buruli ulcer and Johne's disease. The 9th MHM conference (MHM9) was held in July 2022 at The Ohio State University (OSU) and centered around the theme of "Confounders of Mycobacterial Disease." Confounders can and often do drive the transmission of mycobacterial diseases, as well as impact surveillance and treatment outcomes. Various confounders were presented and discussed at MHM9 including those that originate from the host (comorbidities and coinfections) as well as those arising from the environment (e.g., zoonotic exposures), economic inequality (e.g. healthcare disparities), stigma (a confounder of leprosy and TB for millennia), and historical neglect (a confounder in Native American Nations). This conference report summarizes select talks given at MHM9 highlighting recent research advances, as well as talks regarding the historic and ongoing impact of TB and other infectious diseases on Native American Nations, including those in Southwestern Alaska where the regional TB incidence rate is among the highest in the Western hemisphere.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abigail Marie Klever
- Department of Microbial Infection and Immunity, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA; Infectious Diseases Institute, The Ohio State University, OH, USA
| | - Kathleen A Alexander
- Department of Fish and Wildlife Conservation, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA, USA; CARACAL/Chobe Research Institute Kasane, Botswana
| | - Deepak Almeida
- Center for Tuberculosis Research, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Matthew Z Anderson
- Department of Microbial Infection and Immunity, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA; Infectious Diseases Institute, The Ohio State University, OH, USA; Department of Microbiology, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | | | - Gillian Beamer
- Host Pathogen Interactions and Population Health Program, Texas Biomedical Research Institute, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Paola Boggiatto
- Agricultural Research Service, United States Department of Agriculture, Ames, IA, USA
| | - Jane E Buikstra
- Center for Bioarchaeological Research, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ, USA
| | - Bruce Chandler
- Division of Public Health, Alaska Department of Health, AK, USA
| | - Tiffany A Claeys
- Department of Microbial Infection and Immunity, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA; Infectious Diseases Institute, The Ohio State University, OH, USA
| | - Aislinn E Concha
- Department of Integrative Physiology, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO, USA
| | - Paul J Converse
- Center for Tuberculosis Research, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Keith M Derbyshire
- Division of Genetics, The Wadsworth Center, New York State Department of Health, Albany, NY, USA; Department of Biomedical Sciences, University at Albany, Albany, NY, USA
| | - Karen M Dobos
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Pathology, Mycobacteria Research Laboratories, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, USA
| | - Kathryn M Dupnik
- Center for Global Health, Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Janice J Endsley
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, USA
| | - Mark A Endsley
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, USA
| | - Kevin Fennelly
- Pulmonary Branch, Division of Intramural Research, National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, National Institutes of Health, Rockville, MD, USA
| | - Carlos Franco-Paredes
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Pathology, Mycobacteria Research Laboratories, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, USA; Hospital Infantil de México Federico Gómez, México, USA
| | | | - Luanne Hall-Stoodley
- Department of Microbial Infection and Immunity, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA; Infectious Diseases Institute, The Ohio State University, OH, USA
| | - Don Hayes
- Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | | | - Courtney A Hofman
- Department of Anthropology, University of Oklahoma, Norman, OK, USA; Laboratories of Molecular Anthropology and Microbiome Research, University of Oklahoma, Norman, OK, USA
| | - Jennifer R Honda
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Biology, University of Texas Health Science Center at Tyler, Tyler, TX, USA
| | - Natalie M Hull
- Department of Civil, Environmental, and Geodetic Engineering, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Igor Kramnik
- Pulmonary Center, The Department of Medicine, Boston University Chobanian & Aveedisian School of Medicine, National Emerging Infectious Diseases Laboratories, Boston University, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Karen Lacourciere
- National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Rockville, MD, USA
| | - Ramanuj Lahiri
- United States Department of Health and Human Services, Health Resources and Services Administration, Health Systems Bureau, National Hansen's Disease Program, Baton Rouge, LA, USA
| | - Elise A Lamont
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Michelle H Larsen
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, USA
| | | | - Sandrine Lesellier
- French Agency for Food, Environmental & Occupational Health & Safety (ANSES), Laboratory for Rabies and Wildlife,Nancy, France
| | - Naomi R Lee
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Northern Arizona University, Flagstaff, AZ, USA
| | - Christopher A Lowry
- Department of Integrative Physiology, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO, USA
| | - Najmus S Mahfooz
- Department of Microbial Infection and Immunity, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA; Infectious Diseases Institute, The Ohio State University, OH, USA
| | - Temet M McMichael
- Department of Microbial Infection and Immunity, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA; Infectious Diseases Institute, The Ohio State University, OH, USA
| | - Marlena R Merling
- Department of Microbial Infection and Immunity, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA; Infectious Diseases Institute, The Ohio State University, OH, USA
| | - Michele A Miller
- DSI-NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research, South African Medical Research Council Centre for Tuberculosis Research, Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Jyothi F Nagajyothi
- Center for Discovery and Innovation, Hackensack Meridian Health, Nutley, NJ, USA
| | - Elizabeth Nelson
- Microbial Paleogenomics Unit, Dept of Genomes and Genetics, Institut Pasteur, Paris, France
| | - Eric L Nuermberger
- Center for Tuberculosis Research, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Maria T Pena
- United States Department of Health and Human Services, Health Resources and Services Administration, Health Systems Bureau, National Hansen's Disease Program, Baton Rouge, LA, USA
| | - Claudia Perea
- Animal & Plant Health Inspection Service, United States Department of Agriculture, Ames, IA, USA
| | - Brendan K Podell
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Pathology, Mycobacteria Research Laboratories, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, USA
| | - Charlie J Pyle
- Department of Molecular Genetics & Microbiology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA; Department of Immunology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Fred D Quinn
- Department of Infectious Diseases, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, USA
| | - Murugesan V S Rajaram
- Department of Microbial Infection and Immunity, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA; Infectious Diseases Institute, The Ohio State University, OH, USA
| | - Oscar Rosas Mejia
- Department of Microbial Infection and Immunity, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA; Infectious Diseases Institute, The Ohio State University, OH, USA
| | | | - Saydie A Sago
- Department of Integrative Physiology, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO, USA
| | - Liliana C M Salvador
- School of Animal and Comparative Biomedical Sciences, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA
| | - Andrew W Simonson
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics and the Center for Vaccine Research, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - John S Spencer
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Pathology, Mycobacteria Research Laboratories, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, USA
| | - Srinand Sreevatsan
- Pathobiology & Diagnostic Investigation Department, College of Veterinary Medicine, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA
| | - Selvakumar Subbian
- Public Health Research Institute (PHRI), New Jersey Medical School, Rutgers University, Newark, NJ, USA
| | | | - David M Tobin
- Department of Molecular Genetics & Microbiology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA; Department of Immunology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
| | - K K Vidya Vijayan
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Center for AIDS Research, and Children's Research Institute, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Caelan T O Wright
- Department of Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO, USA
| | - Richard T Robinson
- Department of Microbial Infection and Immunity, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA; Infectious Diseases Institute, The Ohio State University, OH, USA.
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Donaldson AC, Fuller A, Meyer LCR, Buss PE. Chemical immobilisation of lions: weighing up drug effectiveness versus clinical effects. J S Afr Vet Assoc 2023; 94:23-32. [PMID: 37358315 DOI: 10.36303/jsava.544] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Selection of an effective drug combination to immobilise African lions (Panthera leo) requires balancing immobilisation effectiveness with potential side effects. We compared the immobilisation effectiveness and changes to physiological variables induced by three drug combinations used for free-ranging African lions. The lions (12 animals per drug combination) were immobilised with tiletamine-zolazepam-medetomidine (TZM), ketamine-medetomidine (KM) or ketamine-butorphanol-medetomidine (KBM). Induction, immobilisation, and recovery were timed, evaluated using a scoring system, and physiological variables were monitored. The drugs used for immobilisation were antagonised with atipamezole and naltrexone. The quality of induction was rated as excellent for all drug combinations and induction times (mean ± SD) did not differ between the groups (10.54 ± 2.67 min for TZM, 10.49 ± 2.63 min for KM, and 11.11 ± 2.91 min for KBM). Immobilisation depth was similar over the immobilisation period in the TZM and KBM groups, and initially light, progressing to deeper in lions administered KM. Heart rate, respiratory rate and peripheral arterial haemoglobin saturation with oxygen were within the expected range for healthy, awake lions in all groups. All lions were severely hypertensive and hyperthermic throughout the immobilisation. Following antagonism of immobilising drugs, lions immobilised with KM and KBM recovered to walking sooner than those immobilised with TZM, at 15.29 ± 10.68 min, 10.88 ± 4.29 min and 29.73 ± 14.46 min, respectively. Only one lion in the KBM group exhibited ataxia during recovery compared to five and four lions in the TZM and KM groups, respectively. All three drug combinations provided smooth inductions and effective immobilisations but resulted in hypertension. KBM had an advantage of allowing for shorter, less ataxic recoveries.
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Affiliation(s)
- A C Donaldson
- Department of Paraclinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, South Africa and Centre for Veterinary Wildlife Research, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, South Africa and Center for Zoo and Wild Animal Health, Copenhagen Zoo, Denmark and Brain Function Research Group, School of Physiology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, South Africa
| | - A Fuller
- Department of Paraclinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, South Africa and Centre for Veterinary Wildlife Research, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, South Africa and Brain Function Research Group, School of Physiology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, South Africa
| | - L C R Meyer
- Department of Paraclinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, South Africa and Centre for Veterinary Wildlife Research, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, South Africa and Brain Function Research Group, School of Physiology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, South Africa
| | - P E Buss
- Centre for Veterinary Wildlife Research, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, South Africa and Veterinary Wildlife Services, South African National Parks, Kruger National Park, South Africa and Department of Production Animal Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, South Africa
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Gumbo R, Sylvester TT, Parsons SDC, Buss PE, Warren RM, van Helden PD, Miller MA, Kerr TJ. Comparison of interferon gamma release assay and CXCL9 gene expression assay for the detection of Mycobacterium bovis infection in African lions (Panthera leo). Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2022; 12:989209. [PMID: 36189358 PMCID: PMC9523132 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2022.989209] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2022] [Accepted: 08/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Mycobacterium bovis (M. bovis) infection has been identified in both domestic and wild animals and may threaten the conservation of vulnerable species including African lions (Panthera leo). There is a need to develop accurate ante-mortem tools for detection of M. bovis infection in African big cat populations for wildlife management and disease surveillance. The aim of this study was to compare the performances of two immunological assays, the QuantiFERON®-TB Gold Plus (QFT) Mabtech Cat interferon gamma release assay (IGRA) and QFT CXCL9 gene expression assay (GEA), which have both shown diagnostic potential for M. bovis detection in African lions. Lion whole blood (n=47), stimulated using the QFT platform, was used for measuring antigen-specific CXCL9 expression and IFN-γ production and to assign M. bovis infection status. A subset (n=12) of mycobacterial culture-confirmed M. bovis infected and uninfected African lions was used to compare the agreement between the immunological diagnostic assays. There was no statistical difference between the proportions of test positive African lions tested by the QFT Mabtech Cat IGRA compared to the QFT CXCL9 GEA. There was also a moderate association between immunological diagnostic assays when numerical results were compared. The majority of lions had the same diagnostic outcome using the paired assays. Although the QFT Mabtech Cat IGRA provides a more standardized, commercially available, and cost-effective test compared to QFT CXCL9 GEA, using both assays to categorize M. bovis infection status in lions will increase confidence in results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachiel Gumbo
- DSI-NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research, SAMRC Centre for Tuberculosis Research, Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Tygerberg, South Africa
| | - Tashnica T. Sylvester
- DSI-NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research, SAMRC Centre for Tuberculosis Research, Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Tygerberg, South Africa
| | - Sven D. C. Parsons
- DSI-NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research, SAMRC Centre for Tuberculosis Research, Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Tygerberg, South Africa
- Afrivet Business Management, Newmark Estate Office Park, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Peter E. Buss
- Veterinary Wildlife Services, Kruger National Park, Skukuza, South Africa
| | - Robin M. Warren
- DSI-NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research, SAMRC Centre for Tuberculosis Research, Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Tygerberg, South Africa
| | - Paul D. van Helden
- DSI-NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research, SAMRC Centre for Tuberculosis Research, Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Tygerberg, South Africa
| | - Michele A. Miller
- DSI-NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research, SAMRC Centre for Tuberculosis Research, Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Tygerberg, South Africa
- *Correspondence: Michele A. Miller,
| | - Tanya J. Kerr
- DSI-NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research, SAMRC Centre for Tuberculosis Research, Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Tygerberg, South Africa
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Ncube P, Bagheri B, Goosen WJ, Miller MA, Sampson SL. Evidence, Challenges, and Knowledge Gaps Regarding Latent Tuberculosis in Animals. Microorganisms 2022; 10:1845. [PMID: 36144447 PMCID: PMC9503773 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms10091845] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2022] [Revised: 09/08/2022] [Accepted: 09/09/2022] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Mycobacterium bovis and other Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex (MTBC) pathogens that cause domestic animal and wildlife tuberculosis have received considerably less attention than M. tuberculosis, the primary cause of human tuberculosis (TB). Human TB studies have shown that different stages of infection can exist, driven by host-pathogen interactions. This results in the emergence of heterogeneous subpopulations of mycobacteria in different phenotypic states, which range from actively replicating (AR) cells to viable but slowly or non-replicating (VBNR), viable but non-culturable (VBNC), and dormant mycobacteria. The VBNR, VBNC, and dormant subpopulations are believed to underlie latent tuberculosis (LTB) in humans; however, it is unclear if a similar phenomenon could be happening in animals. This review discusses the evidence, challenges, and knowledge gaps regarding LTB in animals, and possible host-pathogen differences in the MTBC strains M. tuberculosis and M. bovis during infection. We further consider models that might be adapted from human TB research to investigate how the different phenotypic states of bacteria could influence TB stages in animals. In addition, we explore potential host biomarkers and mycobacterial changes in the DosR regulon, transcriptional sigma factors, and resuscitation-promoting factors that may influence the development of LTB.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Samantha Leigh Sampson
- DSI/NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research, South African Medical Research Council Centre for Tuberculosis Research, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Francie Van Zijl Dr, Parow, Cape Town 7505, South Africa
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Adaptation and Diagnostic Potential of a Commercial Cat Interferon Gamma Release Assay for the Detection of Mycobacterium bovis Infection in African Lions (Panthera leo). Pathogens 2022; 11:pathogens11070765. [PMID: 35890010 PMCID: PMC9317741 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens11070765] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2022] [Revised: 06/28/2022] [Accepted: 07/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Mycobacterium bovis (M. bovis) infection in wildlife, including lions (Panthera leo), has implications for individual and population health. Tools for the detection of infected lions are needed for diagnosis and disease surveillance. This study aimed to evaluate the Mabtech Cat interferon gamma (IFN-γ) ELISABasic kit for detection of native lion IFN-γ in whole blood samples stimulated using the QuantiFERON® TB Gold Plus (QFT) platform as a potential diagnostic assay. The ELISA was able to detect lion IFN-γ in mitogen-stimulated samples, with good parallelism, linearity, and a working range of 15.6–500 pg/mL. Minimal matrix interference was observed in the recovery of domestic cat rIFN-γ in lion plasma. Both intra- and inter-assay reproducibility had a coefficient of variation less than 10%, while the limit of detection and quantification were 7.8 pg/mL and 31.2 pg/mL, respectively. The diagnostic performance of the QFT Mabtech Cat interferon gamma release assay (IGRA) was determined using mycobacterial antigen-stimulated samples from M. bovis culture-confirmed infected (n = 8) and uninfected (n = 4) lions. A lion-specific cut-off value (33 pg/mL) was calculated, and the sensitivity and specificity were determined to be 87.5% and 100%, respectively. Although additional samples should be tested, the QFT Mabtech Cat IGRA could identify M. bovis-infected African lions.
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Mitchell JL, Raper A, Gunn-Moore DA, Hope JC. Recognition of recombinant interferon-gamma from Felidae species by anti-cat antibodies. Vet Immunol Immunopathol 2021; 241:110327. [PMID: 34564047 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetimm.2021.110327] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2021] [Revised: 09/15/2021] [Accepted: 09/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Mycobacterial infections cause a reasonable burden of morbidity and mortality in global feline populations, many of which are 'Vulnerable' or 'Endangered'. Identifying these infections may facilitate efforts to protect these animals. An interferon-gamma (IFNγ) release assay (IGRA) to diagnose mycobacteriosis in domestic cats has been adapted for use in lions; however, the development of species-specific antibodies may be laborious. Therefore, we investigated whether anti-cat IFNγ antibodies can bind to recombinant IFNγ (rIFNγ) from other Felidae species, permitting use of the feline IGRA in a wider range of felids. Unique Felidae IFNγ protein sequences and their corresponding coding nucleotide sequence were identified from online databases; plasmids with an IFNγ-gene insert were synthesised to transform E. coli-DH5α and subsequently transfect HEK 293 T cells to secrete rIFNγ. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay using a commercial anti-cat IFNγ kit was performed to detect rIFNγ from Felidae, the domestic dog and cattle. Five unique rIFNγ Felidae proteins were synthesised; anti-cat IFNγ antibodies were able to bind to all five proteins, while cross-reactivity with canine and bovine rIFNγ was negligible. This suggests that anti-cat IFNγ antibodies are sufficient for detection of IFNγ across other Felidae species, namely the lion, tiger, cheetah, cougar, Iberian lynx and the Canadian lynx.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jordan L Mitchell
- The Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies and The Roslin Institute, University of Edinburgh, Easter Bush, Midlothian, EH25 9RG, United Kingdom.
| | - Anna Raper
- The Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies and The Roslin Institute, University of Edinburgh, Easter Bush, Midlothian, EH25 9RG, United Kingdom
| | - Danièlle A Gunn-Moore
- The Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies and The Roslin Institute, University of Edinburgh, Easter Bush, Midlothian, EH25 9RG, United Kingdom
| | - Jayne C Hope
- The Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies and The Roslin Institute, University of Edinburgh, Easter Bush, Midlothian, EH25 9RG, United Kingdom
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Blanco Vázquez C, Barral TD, Romero B, Queipo M, Merediz I, Quirós P, Armenteros JÁ, Juste R, Domínguez L, Domínguez M, Casais R, Balseiro A. Spatial and Temporal Distribution of Mycobacterium tuberculosis Complex Infection in Eurasian Badger ( Meles meles) and Cattle in Asturias, Spain. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:ani11051294. [PMID: 33946463 PMCID: PMC8147139 DOI: 10.3390/ani11051294] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2021] [Revised: 04/26/2021] [Accepted: 04/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary The aim of the present work was to investigate the prevalence, spatial distribution, and temporal distribution of tuberculosis in 673 free-ranging Eurasian badgers (Meles meles) and cattle from Asturias (Atlantic Spain) during a 13-year follow-up. The study objective was to assess the role of badgers as a reservoir of tuberculosis for cattle and other sympatric wild species in the region. During the follow-up, 27/639 badgers (4.23%) were positive for the Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex based on bacterial isolation, while 160/673 (23.77%) were positive based on P22 ELISA. Badger infection was spatially and temporally associated with cattle herd infection. Abstract The present work investigated the prevalence, spatial distribution, and temporal distribution of tuberculosis (TB) in free-ranging Eurasian badgers (Meles meles) and cattle in Asturias (Atlantic Spain) during a 13-year follow-up. The study objective was to assess the role of badgers as a TB reservoir for cattle and other sympatric wild species in the region. Between 2008 and 2020, 673 badgers (98 trapped and 575 killed in road traffic accidents) in Asturias were necropsied, and their tissue samples were cultured for the Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex (MTC) isolation. Serum samples were tested in an in-house indirect P22 ELISA to detect antibodies against the MTC. In parallel, data on MTC isolation and single intradermal tuberculin test results were extracted for cattle that were tested and culled as part of the Spanish National Program for the Eradication of Bovine TB. A total of 27/639 badgers (4.23%) were positive for MTC based on bacterial isolation, while 160/673 badgers (23.77%) were found to be positive with the P22 ELISA. The rate of seropositivity was higher among adult badgers than subadults. Badger TB status was spatially and temporally associated with cattle TB status. Our results cannot determine the direction of possible interspecies transmission, but they are consistent with the idea that the two hosts may exert infection pressure on each other. This study highlights the importance of the wildlife monitoring of infection and disease during epidemiological interventions in order to optimize outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristina Blanco Vázquez
- Servicio Regional de Investigación y Desarrollo Agroalimentario del Principado de Asturias (SERIDA), 33300 Villaviciosa, Spain; (C.B.V.); (R.C.)
| | - Thiago Doria Barral
- Laboratório de Imunologia e Biologia Molecular, Instituto de Ciências da Saúde, Universidade Federal da Bahia, 40.110-100 Salvador, Bahia, Brazil;
| | - Beatriz Romero
- Centro de Vigilancia Sanitaria Veterinaria VISAVET, Universidad Complutense, 28040 Madrid, Spain; (B.R.); (L.D.)
| | - Manuel Queipo
- Servicio de Sanidad y Producción Animal del Principado de Asturias, 33007 Oviedo, Asturias, Spain;
| | - Isabel Merediz
- Laboratorio Regional de Sanidad Animal del Principado de Asturias, 33201 Gijón, Asturias, Spain;
| | - Pablo Quirós
- Dirección General del Medio Natural y Planificación Rural del Principado de Asturias, 33007 Oviedo, Asturias, Spain; (P.Q.); (J.Á.A.)
| | - José Ángel Armenteros
- Dirección General del Medio Natural y Planificación Rural del Principado de Asturias, 33007 Oviedo, Asturias, Spain; (P.Q.); (J.Á.A.)
| | - Ramón Juste
- Animal Health Department, NEIKER-Instituto Vasco de Investigación y Desarrollo Agrario, 48160 Derio, Bizkaia, Spain;
| | - Lucas Domínguez
- Centro de Vigilancia Sanitaria Veterinaria VISAVET, Universidad Complutense, 28040 Madrid, Spain; (B.R.); (L.D.)
- Departamento de Sanidad Animal, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad Complutense, 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - Mercedes Domínguez
- Unidad de Inmunología Microbiana, Centro Nacional de Microbiología, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28029 Madrid, Spain;
| | - Rosa Casais
- Servicio Regional de Investigación y Desarrollo Agroalimentario del Principado de Asturias (SERIDA), 33300 Villaviciosa, Spain; (C.B.V.); (R.C.)
| | - Ana Balseiro
- Departamento de Sanidad Animal, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de León, 24071 León, Spain
- Departamento de Sanidad Animal, Instituto de Ganadería de Montaña (CSIC-Universidad de León), Finca Marzanas, Grulleros, 24346 León, Spain
- Correspondence:
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8
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Thomas J, Balseiro A, Gortázar C, Risalde MA. Diagnosis of tuberculosis in wildlife: a systematic review. Vet Res 2021; 52:31. [PMID: 33627188 PMCID: PMC7905575 DOI: 10.1186/s13567-020-00881-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2020] [Accepted: 12/14/2020] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Animal tuberculosis (TB) is a multi-host disease caused by members of the Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex (MTC). Due to its impact on economy, sanitary standards of milk and meat industry, public health and conservation, TB control is an actively ongoing research subject. Several wildlife species are involved in the maintenance and transmission of TB, so that new approaches to wildlife TB diagnosis have gained relevance in recent years. Diagnosis is a paramount step for screening, epidemiological investigation, as well as for ensuring the success of control strategies such as vaccination trials. This is the first review that systematically addresses data available for the diagnosis of TB in wildlife following the Preferred Reporting Items of Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. The article also gives an overview of the factors related to host, environment, sampling, and diagnostic techniques which can affect test performance. After three screenings, 124 articles were considered for systematic review. Literature indicates that post-mortem examination and culture are useful methods for disease surveillance, but immunological diagnostic tests based on cellular and humoral immune response detection are gaining importance in wildlife TB diagnosis. Among them, serological tests are especially useful in wildlife because they are relatively inexpensive and easy to perform, facilitate large-scale surveillance and can be used both ante- and post-mortem. Currently available studies assessed test performance mostly in cervids, European badgers, wild suids and wild bovids. Research to improve diagnostic tests for wildlife TB diagnosis is still needed in order to reach accurate, rapid and cost-effective diagnostic techniques adequate to a broad range of target species and consistent over space and time to allow proper disease monitoring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jobin Thomas
- Sanidad Y Biotecnología (SaBio), Instituto de Investigación en Recursos Cinegéticos IREC (UCLM-CSIC), 13003, Ciudad Real, Spain.,Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), New Delhi, 110001, India
| | - Ana Balseiro
- Departamento de Sanidad Animal, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de León, 24071, León, Spain. .,Departamento de Sanidad Animal, Instituto de Ganadería de Montaña (CSIC-Universidad de León), Finca Marzanas, Grulleros, 24346, León, Spain.
| | - Christian Gortázar
- Sanidad Y Biotecnología (SaBio), Instituto de Investigación en Recursos Cinegéticos IREC (UCLM-CSIC), 13003, Ciudad Real, Spain
| | - María A Risalde
- Departamento de Anatomía Y Anatomía Patológica Comparadas Y Toxicología. Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de Córdoba (UCO), 14014, Córdoba, Spain.,Unidad de Enfermedades Infecciosas, Grupo de Virología Clínica Y Zoonosis, Instituto Maimónides de Investigación Biomédica de Córdoba (IMIBIC), Hospital Reina Sofía, Universidad de Córdoba (UCO), 14004, Córdoba, Spain
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9
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Bernitz N, Kerr TJ, Goosen WJ, Chileshe J, Higgitt RL, Roos EO, Meiring C, Gumbo R, de Waal C, Clarke C, Smith K, Goldswain S, Sylvester TT, Kleynhans L, Dippenaar A, Buss PE, Cooper DV, Lyashchenko KP, Warren RM, van Helden PD, Parsons SDC, Miller MA. Review of Diagnostic Tests for Detection of Mycobacterium bovis Infection in South African Wildlife. Front Vet Sci 2021; 8:588697. [PMID: 33585615 PMCID: PMC7876456 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2021.588697] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2020] [Accepted: 01/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Wildlife tuberculosis is a major economic and conservation concern globally. Bovine tuberculosis (bTB), caused by Mycobacterium bovis (M. bovis), is the most common form of wildlife tuberculosis. In South Africa, to date, M. bovis infection has been detected in 24 mammalian wildlife species. The identification of M. bovis infection in wildlife species is essential to limit the spread and to control the disease in these populations, sympatric wildlife species and neighboring livestock. The detection of M. bovis-infected individuals is challenging as only severely diseased animals show clinical disease manifestations and diagnostic tools to identify infection are limited. The emergence of novel reagents and technologies to identify M. bovis infection in wildlife species are instrumental in improving the diagnosis and control of bTB. This review provides an update on the diagnostic tools to detect M. bovis infection in South African wildlife but may be a useful guide for other wildlife species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Netanya Bernitz
- Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, DSI-NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research, South African Medical Research Council Centre for Tuberculosis Research, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Tanya J. Kerr
- Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, DSI-NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research, South African Medical Research Council Centre for Tuberculosis Research, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Wynand J. Goosen
- Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, DSI-NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research, South African Medical Research Council Centre for Tuberculosis Research, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Josephine Chileshe
- Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, DSI-NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research, South African Medical Research Council Centre for Tuberculosis Research, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Roxanne L. Higgitt
- Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, DSI-NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research, South African Medical Research Council Centre for Tuberculosis Research, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Eduard O. Roos
- Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, DSI-NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research, South African Medical Research Council Centre for Tuberculosis Research, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Christina Meiring
- Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, DSI-NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research, South African Medical Research Council Centre for Tuberculosis Research, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Rachiel Gumbo
- Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, DSI-NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research, South African Medical Research Council Centre for Tuberculosis Research, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Candice de Waal
- Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, DSI-NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research, South African Medical Research Council Centre for Tuberculosis Research, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Charlene Clarke
- Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, DSI-NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research, South African Medical Research Council Centre for Tuberculosis Research, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Katrin Smith
- Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, DSI-NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research, South African Medical Research Council Centre for Tuberculosis Research, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Samantha Goldswain
- Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, DSI-NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research, South African Medical Research Council Centre for Tuberculosis Research, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Taschnica T. Sylvester
- Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, DSI-NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research, South African Medical Research Council Centre for Tuberculosis Research, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Léanie Kleynhans
- Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, DSI-NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research, South African Medical Research Council Centre for Tuberculosis Research, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Anzaan Dippenaar
- Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, DSI-NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research, South African Medical Research Council Centre for Tuberculosis Research, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Peter E. Buss
- Veterinary Wildlife Services, South African National Parks, Kruger National Park, Skukuza, South Africa
| | | | | | - Robin M. Warren
- Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, DSI-NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research, South African Medical Research Council Centre for Tuberculosis Research, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Paul D. van Helden
- Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, DSI-NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research, South African Medical Research Council Centre for Tuberculosis Research, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Sven D. C. Parsons
- Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, DSI-NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research, South African Medical Research Council Centre for Tuberculosis Research, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Michele A. Miller
- Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, DSI-NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research, South African Medical Research Council Centre for Tuberculosis Research, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
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Biopsy and Tracheobronchial Aspirates as Additional Tools for the Diagnosis of Bovine Tuberculosis in Living European Bison ( Bison bonasus). Animals (Basel) 2020; 10:ani10112017. [PMID: 33147754 PMCID: PMC7692047 DOI: 10.3390/ani10112017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2020] [Revised: 10/22/2020] [Accepted: 10/28/2020] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary In this study, additional methods of collecting material for bovine tuberculosis diagnosis in living European bison were introduced. We showed a potential usage of tracheobronchial aspirates and ultrasound-guided biopsies from lateral retropharyngeal lymph nodes in living animals for diagnostics. We confirmed that the isolation of Mycobacterium caprae in living European bison is possible, as is the respiratory shedding of viable M. caprae in this host. This study is important as tuberculosis is a real threat for European bison which is an endangered species and the improvement of diagnostics can help with better health monitoring and further restitution. Abstract The diagnosis of bovine tuberculosis (BTB) in living wildlife remains a complex problem, and one of particular importance in endangered species like European bison (Bison bonasus). To identify infection and avoid the unnecessary culling of such valuable individuals, current best practice requires the collection and culture of material from living animals, as mycobacteria isolation remains the gold standard in BTB diagnosis. However, such isolation is challenging due to the need for the immobilization and collection of appropriate clinical material, and because of the sporadic shedding of mycobacteria. In the present study, we evaluated the potential of sampling for the detection of BTB in a group of seven living European bison suspected of being infected with Mycobacterium caprae. The specimens were collected both as swabs from the nasal and pharyngeal cavities, tracheobronchial aspirates (TBA), ultrasound-guided biopsies from lateral retropharyngeal lymph nodes, and post mortem, from mandibular, retropharyngeal and mediastinal lymph nodes. Clinical samples were tested for mycobacterial species via mycobacteriological culture and PCR. M. caprae was isolated from collected material in two out of four living infected individuals (TBA, biopsy) and mycobacterial DNA was detected in three out of four (TBA, pharyngeal swab) bison. This is the first report of isolation of M. caprae in living European bison. Our findings demonstrate the value of diagnostic tests based on both molecular testing and culture in European bison and confirm the respiratory shedding of viable M. caprae in this host species.
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11
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Green J, Jakins C, Asfaw E, Bruschi N, Parker A, de Waal L, D’Cruze N. African Lions and Zoonotic Diseases: Implications for Commercial Lion Farms in South Africa. Animals (Basel) 2020; 10:ani10091692. [PMID: 32962130 PMCID: PMC7552683 DOI: 10.3390/ani10091692] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2020] [Revised: 09/14/2020] [Accepted: 09/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary In South Africa, thousands of African lions are bred on farms for commercial purposes, such as tourism, trophy hunting, and traditional medicine. Lions on farms often have direct contact with people, such as farm workers and tourists. Such close contact between wild animals and humans creates opportunities for the spread of zoonotic diseases (diseases that can be passed between animals and people). To help understand the health risks associated with lion farms, our study compiled a list of pathogens (bacteria, viruses, parasites, and fungi) known to affect African lions. We reviewed 148 scientific papers and identified a total of 63 pathogens recorded in both wild and captive lions, most of which were parasites (35, 56%), followed by viruses (17, 27%) and bacteria (11, 17%). This included pathogens that can be passed from lions to other animals and to humans. We also found a total of 83 diseases and clinical symptoms associated with these pathogens. Given that pathogens and their associated infectious diseases can cause harm to both animals and public health, we recommend that the lion farming industry in South Africa takes action to prevent and manage potential disease outbreaks. Abstract African lions (Panthera leo) are bred in captivity on commercial farms across South Africa and often have close contact with farm staff, tourists, and other industry workers. As transmission of zoonotic diseases occurs through close proximity between wildlife and humans, these commercial captive breeding operations pose a potential risk to thousands of captive lions and to public health. An understanding of pathogens known to affect lions is needed to effectively assess the risk of disease emergence and transmission within the industry. Here, we conduct a systematic search of the academic literature, identifying 148 peer-reviewed studies, to summarize the range of pathogens and parasites known to affect African lions. A total of 63 pathogenic organisms were recorded, belonging to 35 genera across 30 taxonomic families. Over half were parasites (35, 56%), followed by viruses (17, 27%) and bacteria (11, 17%). A number of novel pathogens representing unidentified and undescribed species were also reported. Among the pathogenic inventory are species that can be transmitted from lions to other species, including humans. In addition, 83 clinical symptoms and diseases associated with these pathogens were identified. Given the risks posed by infectious diseases, this research highlights the potential public health risks associated with the captive breeding industry. We recommend that relevant authorities take imminent action to help prevent and manage the risks posed by zoonotic pathogens on lion farms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennah Green
- World Animal Protection 222 Gray’s Inn Rd., London WC1X 8HB, UK; (J.G.); (E.A.); (N.B.); (A.P.)
| | - Catherine Jakins
- Blood Lion NPC, P.O. Box 1548, Kloof 3640, South Africa; (C.J.); (L.d.W.)
| | - Eyob Asfaw
- World Animal Protection 222 Gray’s Inn Rd., London WC1X 8HB, UK; (J.G.); (E.A.); (N.B.); (A.P.)
| | - Nicholas Bruschi
- World Animal Protection 222 Gray’s Inn Rd., London WC1X 8HB, UK; (J.G.); (E.A.); (N.B.); (A.P.)
| | - Abbie Parker
- World Animal Protection 222 Gray’s Inn Rd., London WC1X 8HB, UK; (J.G.); (E.A.); (N.B.); (A.P.)
| | - Louise de Waal
- Blood Lion NPC, P.O. Box 1548, Kloof 3640, South Africa; (C.J.); (L.d.W.)
| | - Neil D’Cruze
- World Animal Protection 222 Gray’s Inn Rd., London WC1X 8HB, UK; (J.G.); (E.A.); (N.B.); (A.P.)
- Correspondence:
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12
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CONSERVATION CHALLENGES: THE LIMITATIONS OF ANTEMORTEM TUBERCULOSIS TESTING IN CAPTIVE ASIATIC LIONS ( PANTHERA LEO PERSICA). J Zoo Wildl Med 2020; 51:426-432. [PMID: 32549574 DOI: 10.1638/2019-0084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/16/2020] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Genetic diversity of captive wild animals can be enhanced by moving those individuals with valuable genes between collections and through introduction of a new pair from a range country. This requires movement of animals, which is inherent with disease risks, such as the introduction of pathogenic Mycobacterium sp. (MTBC) into a zoological collection. Decisions need to be made based on the outcome of perimovement disease screening using an array of tests, the majority of which are unvalidated in the species. A pair of endangered Asiatic lions (Panthera leo persica) imported from India to the United Kingdom were screened for MTBC using the comparative intradermal tuberculosis (TB) test, the feline interferon-γ blood test, and the experimental bacteriophage assay. Reactions on all three tests prompted screening of the three resident Asiatic lions using the same tests, all of which were negative for MTBC. Based on these test results, the decision had to be made to exclude the genetically valuable pair from the current collection. MTBC could not be identified using further tests, including culture and PCR on a bronchoalveolar lavage, on feces, or on postmortem tissues. This case series highlights the usefulness of a control group when interpreting unvalidated test results for detection of MTBC, the value of training big cats for conscious blood sampling, and the practical implications of placing the comparative intradermal TB test in the eyelids, when dealing with a species that requires a general anesthetic for most hands-on interventions.
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13
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MYCOBACTERIAL DISEASE AND SUBSEQUENT DIAGNOSTIC INVESTIGATIONS IN A GROUP OF CAPTIVE PINNIPEDS IN NEW ZEALAND. J Zoo Wildl Med 2020; 51:177-187. [PMID: 32212561 DOI: 10.1638/2019-0007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/02/2019] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
This case series includes a single case of disseminated tuberculous disease due to Mycobacterium pinnipedii in a New Zealand fur seal (Arctocephalus forsteri), which was being cared for by a zoo in New Zealand. The remaining five pinnipeds in the colony underwent extensive mycobacterial disease surveillance over the following 4 yr, involving a total of 26 anesthetic procedures and numerous diagnostic tests that included comparative intradermal tuberculin skin tests, mycobacterial antibody serology, respiratory and gastric lavages, and computed tomography (CT) scans. An additional case of chronic sinusitis due to Mycobacterium marinum and Pseudomonas aeruginosa was identified in a California sea lion (Zalophus californianus). Results from CT and the respiratory lavages were the most helpful antemortem diagnostic tests for active mycobacterial disease in this case series. Of the remaining four animals, two were euthanatized and two remain alive, and none of them had evidence of active mycobacterial disease. Further mycobacterial disease surveillance in staff and animals was performed, and no other case was identified. There are no validated mycobacterial surveillance tests available for pinnipeds and so it remains unknown whether the two surviving pinnipeds are truly negative or whether they have latent mycobacterial infection that could develop into active mycobacterial disease in the future. For this reason, increased levels of biosecurity and quarantine remain permanently in place for the pinniped colony.
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14
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Gormley E, Corner LAL. Wild Animal Tuberculosis: Stakeholder Value Systems and Management of Disease. Front Vet Sci 2018; 5:327. [PMID: 30622951 PMCID: PMC6308382 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2018.00327] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2018] [Accepted: 12/10/2018] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
When human health is put at risk from the transmission of animal diseases, the options for intervention often require input from stakeholders whose differing values systems contribute to decisions on disease management. Animal tuberculosis (TB), caused principally by Mycobacterium bovis is an archetypical zoonotic pathogen in that it can be transmitted from animals to humans and vice versa. Although elimination of zoonotic transmission of TB to humans is frequently promoted as the raison d'être for TB management in livestock, in many countries the control strategies are more likely based on minimizing the impact of sustained infection on the agricultural industry. Where wild animals are implicated in the epidemiology of the disease, the options for control and eradication can require involvement of additional stakeholder groups. Conflict can arise when different monetary and/or societal values are assigned to the affected animals. This may impose practical and ethical dilemmas for decision makers where one or more species of wild animal is seen by some stakeholders to have a greater value than the affected livestock. Here we assess the role of stakeholder values in influencing TB eradication strategies in a number of countries including Ireland, the UK, the USA, Spain, France, Australia, New Zealand and South Africa. What it reveals is that the level of stakeholder involvement increases with the complexity of the epidemiology, and that similar groups of stakeholders may agree to a set of control and eradication measures in one region only to disagree with applying the same measures in another. The level of consensus depends on the considerations of the reservoir status of the infected host, the societal values assigned to each species, the type of interventions proposed, ethical issues raised by culling of sentient wild animals, and the economic cost benefit effectiveness of dealing with the problem in one or more species over a long time frame. While there is a societal benefit from controlling TB, the means to achieve this requires identification and long-term engagement with all key stakeholders in order to reach agreement on ethical frameworks that prioritize and justify control options, particularly where culling of wild animals is concerned.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eamonn Gormley
- School of Veterinary Medicine, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Leigh A L Corner
- School of Veterinary Medicine, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
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15
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PERFORMANCE OF THE TUBERCULIN SKIN TEST IN MYCOBACTERIUM BOVIS-EXPOSED AND -UNEXPOSED AFRICAN LIONS ( PANTHERA LEO). J Wildl Dis 2018; 55:537-543. [PMID: 30485165 DOI: 10.7589/2018-06-163] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Lion (Panthera leo) populations, classified as vulnerable under the International Union for Conservation of Nature red list of threatened species, are facing a variety of threats, including tuberculosis (TB) caused by Mycobacterium bovis. The lack of knowledge on pathogenesis and diagnosis of TB, the prolonged course of the disease, the existence of subclinical infection, and nonspecific clinical signs hamper management of TB in both free-ranging and captive lion populations. Early and accurate antemortem diagnosis of M. bovis infections is important for disease management. In this study, we investigate the suitability of the single intradermal cervical test (SICT), developed with free-ranging Kruger National Park (KNP) lions exposed to M. bovis, for use in other lion populations. Using the recommended interpretation, the specificity of the SICT was low in disease-free captive lions, leading to false-positive diagnoses in 54% of individuals in the present study. Alternative interpretations of the tuberculin skin test are proposed that significantly reduce false-positive diagnosis in the sampled captive lions without significantly affecting diagnoses in the KNP lions; these changes may facilitate screening for M. bovis infection regardless of the exposure status of the lion population being investigated.
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16
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Hermes R, Saragusty J, Moser I, Barth SA, Holtze S, Lecu A, Cracknell J, Williams D, Göritz F, Hildebrandt TB. Differential detection of tuberculous and non-tuberculous mycobacteria by qPCR in lavage fluids of tuberculosis-suspicious white rhinoceros. PLoS One 2018; 13:e0207365. [PMID: 30485372 PMCID: PMC6261570 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0207365] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2018] [Accepted: 10/30/2018] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Tuberculosis (TB) occurs in a wide range of mammalian species and thus poses a health risk to humans living or working in close proximity with TB infected animals. Despite a high incidence of M. bovis infections in domestic or wildlife species tuberculosis infections in rhinoceros have so far been very limited. Over the past 53 years, tuberculosis of the respiratory tract has been confirmed in just 22 rhinoceros, most of those infected not by M. bovis but M. tuberculosis. However, because of the zoonotic risk TB testing is recommended or becomes even mandatory in endangered species. The dilemma in rhinoceros and many other wildlife species; non-validated tests are highly inconsistent in their ability to identify TB infection. Current lack of TB diagnostics may result in TB positive rhinoceros living with the infection, transmitting it to those around them or in euthanasia of animals found unconfirmed at necropsy. This is an unacceptable diagnostic status considering that some species are critically endangered and therefore should not be euthanized in order to confirm suspicion of disease. To overcome this shortcoming we used bronchoscopy to detect mycobacteria in respiratory fluids of TB suspicious rhinoceros. Fluids from seven, TB suspicious white rhinoceros were harvested during 21 bronchoscopies. Our new approach: In addition to bacterial culture a dual quantitative PCR system tested for the general presence of DNA from NTM and more specifically for DNA from MTC. Both, bacterial culture and qPCR were negative for MTC in respiratory fluids of all rhinoceros (7/7). At the same time, respiratory fluids from six rhinoceros tested positive for the presence of NTM or other closely related bacteria (6/7). M. tuberculosis was found only once in an oesophageal aspirate. The high incidence of mycobacterial DNA in the respiratory tract suggests that white rhinoceros, as strict grazers, are immensely exposed to environmental bacteria of this genus. Presence of NTM in the respiratory or intestinal system could possibly cause false positive results in intradermal tests. A wider use of bronchoalveolar lavage is warranted to further elucidate immunologic response to NTM and exposure to, incidence and prevalence of MTC infections in rhinoceros.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert Hermes
- Department of Reproduction Management, Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, Berlin, Germany
| | - Joseph Saragusty
- Laboratory of Embryology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Teramo, Teramo, Italy
| | - Irmgard Moser
- Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Federal Research Institute for Animal Health, Institute of Molecular Pathogenesis, Jena, Germany
| | - Stefanie A. Barth
- Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Federal Research Institute for Animal Health, Institute of Molecular Pathogenesis, Jena, Germany
| | - Susanne Holtze
- Department of Reproduction Management, Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, Berlin, Germany
| | | | - Jonathan Cracknell
- Conservation Medicine Services, Potters Bar, Hertfordshire, United Kingdom
| | | | - Frank Göritz
- Department of Reproduction Management, Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, Berlin, Germany
| | - Thomas Bernd Hildebrandt
- Department of Reproduction Management, Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, Berlin, Germany
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17
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Hermes R, Saragusty J, Moser I, Holtze S, Nieter J, Sachse K, Voracek T, Bernhard A, Bouts T, Göritz F, Hildebrandt TB. Bronchoalveolar lavage for diagnosis of tuberculosis infection in elephants. Epidemiol Infect 2018; 146:481-488. [PMID: 29397050 PMCID: PMC9134556 DOI: 10.1017/s0950268818000122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2017] [Revised: 01/07/2018] [Accepted: 01/08/2018] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Tuberculosis (TB) has been known to affect elephants for thousands of years. It was put into spotlight when few circus elephants were diagnosed carrying Mycobacterium (M.) tuberculosis. Because of the zoonotic risk and high susceptibility to M. tuberculosis, periodic testing was enacted since, in captive breeding programmes. Presently, trunk wash is the recommended diagnostic procedure for TB. Trunk wash, however, puts the operator at risk, has low sensitivity, and is prone to contamination. Here, bronchoalveolar lavage is described for the first time for TB diagnosis in elephants. Bronchial, trunk and mouth fluids were investigated using bacterial culture, M. tuberculosis complex (MTC)-specific real-time quantitative PCR (qPCR) and mycobacterial genus-specific qPCR for overall presence of mycobacteria or mycobacterial DNA including bacteria or DNA of closely related genera, respectively, in 14 elephants. Neither bacteria of the MTC nor their DNA were identified in any of the elephants. Yet, 25% of the cultures grew non-tuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) or closely related bacterial species. Furthermore, 85% of the samples contained DNA of NTM or closely related bacterial genera. This finding might explain continued false-positive results from various serological tests. From a zoonotic point of view, bronchoalveolar lavage is safer for the testing personal, has higher probability of capturing MTC and, through PCR, identifies DNA NTM in elephants. Yet, necessary endoscopic equipment, animal sedation and access to a TB reference laboratory might pose challenging requirements in remote conditions in some elephant range countries.
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Affiliation(s)
- R. Hermes
- Department of Reproduction Management, Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, Alfred-Kowalke-Straße 17, Berlin 10315, Germany
| | - J. Saragusty
- Laboratory of Embryology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Teramo, Via R. Balzarini 1, 64100 Teramo, Italy
| | - I. Moser
- Federal Research Institute for Animal Health, Institute for Molecular Pathogenesis, Friedrich-Loeffler-Institute, Naumburger Straße 96a, Jena 07743, Germany
| | - S. Holtze
- Department of Reproduction Management, Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, Alfred-Kowalke-Straße 17, Berlin 10315, Germany
| | - J. Nieter
- Federal Research Institute for Animal Health, Institute for Molecular Pathogenesis, Friedrich-Loeffler-Institute, Naumburger Straße 96a, Jena 07743, Germany
| | - K. Sachse
- Federal Research Institute for Animal Health, Institute for Molecular Pathogenesis, Friedrich-Loeffler-Institute, Naumburger Straße 96a, Jena 07743, Germany
| | - T. Voracek
- Tierärztliche Ordination Tiergarten Schönbrunn, Seckendorff-Gudent-Weg 6, Vienna A-1130, Austria
| | - A. Bernhard
- Zoo Leipzig GmbH, Pfaffendorfer Str. 29, Leipzig 04105, Germany
| | - T. Bouts
- Park Pairi Daiza, Domaine de Cambron in B-7940 Brugelette, Belgium
| | - F. Göritz
- Department of Reproduction Management, Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, Alfred-Kowalke-Straße 17, Berlin 10315, Germany
| | - T. B. Hildebrandt
- Department of Reproduction Management, Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, Alfred-Kowalke-Straße 17, Berlin 10315, Germany
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Michel AL, Lane EP, de Klerk-Lorist LM, Hofmeyr M, van der Heijden EMDL, Botha L, van Helden P, Miller M, Buss P. Experimental Mycobacterium bovis infection in three white rhinoceroses (Ceratotherium simum): Susceptibility, clinical and anatomical pathology. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0179943. [PMID: 28686714 PMCID: PMC5501512 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0179943] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2016] [Accepted: 05/09/2017] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Tuberculosis caused by Mycobacterium bovis is endemic in the African buffalo (Syncerus caffer) population in the Kruger National Park and other conservation areas in South Africa. The disease has been diagnosed in a total of 21 free ranging or semi-free ranging wildlife species in the country with highly variable presentations in terms of clinical signs as well as severity and distribution of tuberculous lesions. Most species are spillover or dead-end hosts without significant role in the epidemiology of the disease. White rhinoceroses (Ceratotherium simum) are translocated from the Kruger National Park in substantial numbers every year and a clear understanding of their risk to manifest overt tuberculosis disease and to serve as source of infection to other species is required. We report the findings of experimental infection of three white rhinoceroses with a moderately low dose of a virulent field isolate of Mycobacterium bovis. None of the animals developed clinical signs or disseminated disease. The susceptibility of the white rhinoceros to bovine tuberculosis was confirmed by successful experimental infection based on the ante mortem isolation of M. bovis from the respiratory tract of one rhinoceros, the presence of acid-fast organisms and necrotizing granulomatous lesions in the tracheobronchial lymph nodes and the detection of M. bovis genetic material by PCR in the lungs of two animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anita L. Michel
- Department of Veterinary Tropical Diseases, Bovine Tuberculosis and Brucellosis Research Programme, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Onderstepoort, South Africa
- National Zoological Gardens of South Africa, Pretoria, South Africa
- * E-mail:
| | - Emily P. Lane
- Department of Research and Scientific Services, National Zoological Gardens of South Africa, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Lin-Mari de Klerk-Lorist
- Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, State Veterinary Office, Kruger National Park, Skukuza, South Africa
| | - Markus Hofmeyr
- Veterinary Wildlife Services, South African National Parks, Kruger National Park, Skukuza, South Africa
| | - Elisabeth M. D. L. van der Heijden
- Department of Veterinary Tropical Diseases, Bovine Tuberculosis and Brucellosis Research Programme, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Onderstepoort, South Africa
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Immunology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Louise Botha
- DST/NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical TB Research/MRC Centre for Tuberculosis Research, Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Paul van Helden
- DST/NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical TB Research/MRC Centre for Tuberculosis Research, Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Michele Miller
- DST/NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical TB Research/MRC Centre for Tuberculosis Research, Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Peter Buss
- Veterinary Wildlife Services, South African National Parks, Kruger National Park, Skukuza, South Africa
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Prevalence and Risk Factors for Mycobacterium bovis Infection in African Lions ( Panthera leo ) in the Kruger National Park. J Wildl Dis 2017; 53:372-376. [PMID: 28122192 DOI: 10.7589/2016-07-159] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Mycobacterium bovis, the causative agent of bovine tuberculosis (BTB), is endemic in the Kruger National Park (KNP), South Africa. African lions ( Panthera leo ) are susceptible to BTB, but the impact of the disease on lion populations is unknown. In this study, we used a novel gene expression assay for chemokine (C-X-C motif) ligand 9 (CXCL9) to measure the prevalence of M. bovis infection in 70 free-ranging lions that were opportunistically sampled in the southern and central regions of the KNP. In the southern region of the KNP, the apparent prevalence of M. bovis infection was 54% (95% confidence interval [CI]=36.9-70.5%), compared with 33% (95% CI=18.0-51.8%) in the central region, an important difference (P=0.08). Prevalence of M. bovis infection in lions showed similar patterns to estimated BTB prevalence in African buffaloes ( Syncerus caffer ) in the same areas. Investigation of other risk factors showed a trend for older lions, males, or lions with concurrent feline immunodeficiency virus infection to have a higher M. bovis prevalence. Our findings demonstrate that the CXCL9 gene expression assay is a useful tool for the determination of M. bovis status in free-ranging lions and identifies important epidemiologic trends for future studies.
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Olivier TT, Viljoen IM, Hofmeyr J, Hausler GA, Goosen WJ, Tordiffe ASW, Buss P, Loxton AG, Warren RM, Miller MA, van Helden PD, Parsons SDC. Development of a Gene Expression Assay for the Diagnosis ofMycobacterium bovisInfection in African Lions (Panthera leo). Transbound Emerg Dis 2015; 64:774-781. [DOI: 10.1111/tbed.12436] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2015] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- T. T. Olivier
- DST-NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research/SAMRC Centre for TB Research/Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics; Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences; Stellenbosch University; Tygerberg South Africa
| | - I. M. Viljoen
- DST-NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research/SAMRC Centre for TB Research/Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics; Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences; Stellenbosch University; Tygerberg South Africa
| | - J. Hofmeyr
- Veterinary Wildlife Services; Kruger National Park; Skukuza South Africa
| | - G. A. Hausler
- DST-NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research/SAMRC Centre for TB Research/Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics; Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences; Stellenbosch University; Tygerberg South Africa
| | - W. J. Goosen
- DST-NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research/SAMRC Centre for TB Research/Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics; Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences; Stellenbosch University; Tygerberg South Africa
| | - A. S. W. Tordiffe
- Department of Paraclinical Sciences; Faculty of Veterinary Science; University of Pretoria; Pretoria South Africa
- National Zoological Gardens of South Africa; Pretoria South Africa
| | - P. Buss
- Veterinary Wildlife Services; Kruger National Park; Skukuza South Africa
| | - A. G. Loxton
- DST-NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research/SAMRC Centre for TB Research/Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics; Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences; Stellenbosch University; Tygerberg South Africa
| | - R. M. Warren
- DST-NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research/SAMRC Centre for TB Research/Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics; Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences; Stellenbosch University; Tygerberg South Africa
| | - M. A. Miller
- DST-NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research/SAMRC Centre for TB Research/Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics; Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences; Stellenbosch University; Tygerberg South Africa
| | - P. D. van Helden
- DST-NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research/SAMRC Centre for TB Research/Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics; Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences; Stellenbosch University; Tygerberg South Africa
| | - S. D. C. Parsons
- DST-NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research/SAMRC Centre for TB Research/Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics; Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences; Stellenbosch University; Tygerberg South Africa
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Viljoen IM, van Helden PD, Millar RP. Mycobacterium bovis infection in the lion (Panthera leo): Current knowledge, conundrums and research challenges. Vet Microbiol 2015; 177:252-60. [PMID: 25891424 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetmic.2015.03.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2014] [Revised: 03/24/2015] [Accepted: 03/28/2015] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
Mycobacterium bovis has global public-health and socio-economic significance and can infect a wide range of species including the lion (Panthera leo) resulting in tuberculosis. Lions are classified as vulnerable under the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species and have experienced a 30% population decline in the past two decades. However, no attempt has been made to collate and critically evaluate the available knowledge of M. bovis infections in lions and potential effects on population. In this review we set out to redress this. Arguments suggesting that ingestion of infected prey animals are the main route of infection for lions have not been scientifically proven and research is needed into other possible sources and routes of infection. The paucity of knowledge on host susceptibility, transmission directions and therefore host status, manifestation of pathology, and epidemiology of the disease in lions also needs to be addressed. Advances have been made in diagnosing the presence of M. bovis in lions. However, these diagnostic tests are unable to differentiate between exposure, presence of infection, or stage of disease. Furthermore, there are contradictory reports on the effects of M. bovis on lion populations with more data needed on disease dynamics versus the lion population's reproductive dynamics. Knowledge on disease effects on the lion reproduction and how additional stressors such as drought or co-morbidities may interact with tuberculosis is also lacking. Filling these knowledge gaps will contribute to the understanding of mycobacterial infections and disease in captive and wild lions and assist in lion conservation endeavours.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ignatius M Viljoen
- SA MRC Centre for TB Research, DST/NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research, Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Francie van Zijl Drive, Tygerberg, 7505, South Africa; Mammal Research Institute, Department of Zoology and Entomology, University of Pretoria, Lynwood Road, Pretoria, 0002, South Africa.
| | - Paul D van Helden
- SA MRC Centre for TB Research, DST/NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research, Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Francie van Zijl Drive, Tygerberg, 7505, South Africa
| | - Robert P Millar
- Mammal Research Institute, Department of Zoology and Entomology, University of Pretoria, Lynwood Road, Pretoria, 0002, South Africa; MRC Receptor Biology Unit, IDM, University of Cape Town, Observatory, 7935, South Africa
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