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Tillis SB, Ossiboff RJ, Wellehan JFX. Serpentoviruses Exhibit Diverse Organization and ORF Composition with Evidence of Recombination. Viruses 2024; 16:310. [PMID: 38400085 PMCID: PMC10892116 DOI: 10.3390/v16020310] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2024] [Revised: 02/14/2024] [Accepted: 02/15/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Serpentoviruses are a subfamily of positive sense RNA viruses in the order Nidovirales, family Tobaniviridae, associated with respiratory disease in multiple clades of reptiles. While the broadest viral diversity is reported from captive pythons, other reptiles, including colubrid snakes, turtles, and lizards of captive and free-ranging origin are also known hosts. To better define serpentoviral diversity, eleven novel serpentovirus genomes were sequenced with an Illumina MiSeq and, when necessary, completed with other Sanger sequencing methods. The novel serpentoviral genomes, along with 57 other previously published serpentovirus genomes, were analyzed alongside four outgroup genomes. Genomic analyses included identifying unique genome templates for each serpentovirus clade, as well as analysis of coded protein composition, potential protein function, protein glycosylation sites, differences in phylogenetic history between open-reading frames, and recombination. Serpentoviral genomes contained diverse protein compositions. In addition to the fundamental structural spike, matrix, and nucleoprotein proteins required for virion formation, serpentovirus genomes also included 20 previously uncharacterized proteins. The uncharacterized proteins were homologous to a number of previously characterized proteins, including enzymes, transcription factors, scaffolding, viral resistance, and apoptosis-related proteins. Evidence for recombination was detected in multiple instances in genomes from both captive and free-ranging snakes. These results show serpentovirus as a diverse clade of viruses with genomes that code for a wide diversity of proteins potentially enhanced by recombination events.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steven B. Tillis
- Department of Comparative, Diagnostic, and Population Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32608, USA; (R.J.O.); (J.F.X.W.J.)
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Graham EA, Los Kamp EW, Thompson NM, Tillis SB, Childress AL, Wellehan JFX, Walden HDS, Ossiboff RJ. Proliferative strongyloidiasis in a colony of colubrid snakes. Vet Pathol 2024; 61:109-118. [PMID: 37458163 DOI: 10.1177/03009858231186391] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/18/2023]
Abstract
Strongyloides are small rhabditid nematodes primarily associated with enteric disease in a variety of animal species, including reptiles. Strongyloides spp life stages were associated with a disease outbreak in a large breeding colony of snakes. Multiple Pantherophis and Lampropeltis colubrids exhibited respiratory distress, anorexia, stomatitis, facial deformation, and waning body condition that resulted in death or necessitated euthanasia. Postmortem examinations of 13 snakes revealed epithelial hyperplasia and inflammation of the alimentary and respiratory tracts associated with varying numbers of adult and larval nematodes and embryonated or larvated ova. In a subset of snakes, aberrant nematode migration was also observed in the eye, genitourinary system, coelom, and vasculature. Histomorphology and gross examination of parasitic adult female nematodes from host tissues were consistent with a Strongyloides spp. Sedimented fecal material from 101/160 (63%) snakes housed in the affected facility was positive for nematodes and/or larvated ova. Polymerase chain reaction amplification and sequencing of portions of the 18S and 28S ribosomal ribonucleic acid (RNA) genes and the internal transcribed spacer region of adult female parasites and positive fecal samples supported the diagnosis of strongyloidiasis. Strongyloides spp possess a unique life cycle capable of alternating between parasitic (homogonic) and free-living (heterogonic) stages, resulting in the production of directly infective larvae. Commonly utilized husbandry practices in reptile collections can amplify the numbers of infective larvae generated in the captive environment, increasing the risk for rhabditid hyperinfections. This report documents morbidity, mortality, and non-enteric disease manifestations due to Strongyloides hyperinfections in a captive colubrid snake colony.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erin A Graham
- University of Georgia, Tifton, GA
- University of Florida, Gainesville, FL
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3
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Gray MJ, Ossiboff RJ, Berger L, Bletz MC, Carter ED, DeMarchi JA, Grayfer L, Lesbarrères D, Malagon DA, Martel A, Miller DL, Pasmans F, Skerratt LF, Towe AE, Wilber MQ. One Health Approach to Globalizing, Accelerating, and Focusing Amphibian and Reptile Disease Research-Reflections and Opinions from the First Global Amphibian and Reptile Disease Conference. Emerg Infect Dis 2023; 29:1-7. [PMID: 37735750 PMCID: PMC10521610 DOI: 10.3201/eid2910.221899] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/23/2023] Open
Abstract
The world's reptiles and amphibians are experiencing dramatic and ongoing losses in biodiversity, changes that can have substantial effects on ecosystems and human health. In 2022, the first Global Amphibian and Reptile Disease Conference was held, using One Health as a guiding principle. The conference showcased knowledge on numerous reptile and amphibian pathogens from several standpoints, including epidemiology, host immune defenses, wild population effects, and mitigation. The conference also provided field experts the opportunity to discuss and identify the most urgent herpetofaunal disease research directions necessary to address current and future threats to reptile and amphibian biodiversity.
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Weldon PV, Georoff TA, Hall N, Ossiboff RJ, Childress AL, Wellehan JFX. A novel herpesvirus from a wild-caught Madagascar spider tortoise shows evidence of host-viral coevolution with a duplication event in Durocryptodira. J Vet Diagn Invest 2023; 35:554-558. [PMID: 37408504 PMCID: PMC10467464 DOI: 10.1177/10406387231186135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Herpesviruses can be significant reptile pathogens. Herpesviral infection in a wild-caught, male spider tortoise (Pyxis arachnoides) under human care was detected during a routine wellness examination prior to transition between zoologic organizations. The tortoise had no clinical signs of illness. Oral swabs obtained during a physical examination as part of pre-shipment risk mitigation for infectious disease were submitted for consensus herpesvirus PCR assay and sequencing. Based on comparative sequence analysis, the novel herpesvirus identified is a member of the subfamily Alphaherpesvirinae. Studies of herpesviral phylogeny in chelonian species support branching patterns of turtle herpesviruses that closely mirror those of their hosts. The symmetry of these patterns is suggestive of close codivergence of turtle herpesviruses with their host species. The distribution of these viruses in both tortoises and emydids suggests a phylogenetic duplication event in the herpesviruses after host divergence of the Pleurodira and basal to the divergence of Americhelydia. Herpesviral infections have been documented to cause higher morbidity when introduced to aberrant host species, and significant consideration must be given to the presence of herpesviruses in the management of tortoise collections, particularly collections that include various species of testudines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Polly V. Weldon
- Department of Comparative, Diagnostic, and Population Medicine, University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | | | | | - Robert J. Ossiboff
- Department of Comparative, Diagnostic, and Population Medicine, University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - April L. Childress
- Department of Comparative, Diagnostic, and Population Medicine, University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - James F. X. Wellehan
- Department of Comparative, Diagnostic, and Population Medicine, University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine, Gainesville, FL, USA
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Tillis SB, Holt C, Havens S, Logan TD, Julander JG, Ossiboff RJ. In Vitro Characterization and Antiviral Susceptibility of Ophidian Serpentoviruses. Microorganisms 2023; 11:1371. [PMID: 37374873 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms11061371] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2023] [Revised: 05/09/2023] [Accepted: 05/20/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Ophidian serpentoviruses, positive-sense RNA viruses in the order Nidovirales, are important infectious agents of both captive and free-ranging reptiles. Although the clinical significance of these viruses can be variable, some serpentoviruses are pathogenic and potentially fatal in captive snakes. While serpentoviral diversity and disease potential are well documented, little is known about the fundamental properties of these viruses, including their potential host ranges, kinetics of growth, environmental stability, and susceptibility to common disinfectants and viricides. To address this, three serpentoviruses were isolated in culture from three unique PCR-positive python species: Ball python (Python regius), green tree python (Morelia viridis), and Stimson's python (Antaresia stimsoni). A median tissue culture infectious dose (TCID50) was established to characterize viral stability, growth, and susceptibility. All isolates showed an environmental stability of 10-12 days at room temperature (20 °C). While all three viruses produced variable peak titers on three different cell lines when incubated at 32 °C, none of the viruses detectably replicated at 35 °C. All viruses demonstrated a wide susceptibility to sanitizers, with 10% bleach, 2% chlorhexidine, and 70% ethanol inactivating the virus in one minute and 7% peroxide and a quaternary ammonium solution within three minutes. Of seven tested antiviral agents, remdesivir, ribavirin, and NITD-008, showed potent antiviral activity against the three viruses. Finally, the three isolates successfully infected 32 unique tissue culture cell lines representing different diverse reptile taxa and select mammals and birds as detected by epifluorescent immunostaining. This study represents the first characterization of in vitro properties of growth, stability, host range, and inactivation for a serpentovirus. The reported results provide the basis for procedures to mitigate the spread of serpentoviruses in captive snake colonies as well as identify potential non-pharmacologic and pharmacologic treatment options for ophidian serpentoviral infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steven B Tillis
- Department of Comparative, Diagnostic, and Population Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32608, USA
| | - Camille Holt
- Animal, Dairy, and Veterinary Sciences, College of Agriculture and Applied Sciences, Utah State University, Logan, UT 84322, USA
| | - Spencer Havens
- Animal, Dairy, and Veterinary Sciences, College of Agriculture and Applied Sciences, Utah State University, Logan, UT 84322, USA
| | - Tracey D Logan
- Department of Comparative, Diagnostic, and Population Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32608, USA
| | - Justin G Julander
- Animal, Dairy, and Veterinary Sciences, College of Agriculture and Applied Sciences, Utah State University, Logan, UT 84322, USA
| | - Robert J Ossiboff
- Department of Comparative, Diagnostic, and Population Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32608, USA
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Murphy JD, Axiak-Bechtel S, Milner RJ, Lejeune A, Ossiboff RJ, Gell JC, Shiomitsu K. Characterization of expression and prognostic implications of GD2 and GD3 synthase in canine histiocytic sarcoma. Vet Immunol Immunopathol 2023; 259:110594. [PMID: 37058951 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetimm.2023.110594] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2023] [Revised: 03/30/2023] [Accepted: 04/08/2023] [Indexed: 04/16/2023]
Abstract
GD2 and GD3 are disialoganglioside oncofetal antigens important in oncogenesis. GD2 synthase (GD2S) and GD3 synthase (GD3S) are needed for GD2 and GD3 production. The objectives of this study are to validate the use of RNA in situ hybridization (RNAscope®) in the detection of GD2S and GD3S in canine histiocytic sarcoma (HS) in vitro and optimize this technique in canine formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded (FFPE) tissues. A secondary objective is to evaluate the prognostic significance of GD2S and GD3S on survival. Quantitative RT-PCR compared GD2S and GD3S mRNA expression between three HS cell lines followed by RNAscope® in fixed cell pellets from the DH82 cell line and FFPE tissues. Variables prognostic for survival were determined with Cox proportional hazard model. RNAscope® was validated for detection of GD2S and GD3S and optimized in FFPE tissues. GD2S and GD3S mRNA expression was variable between cell lines. GD2S and GD3S mRNA expression was detected and measured in all tumor tissues; there was no association with prognosis. GD2S and GD3S are expressed in canine HS and successfully detected using the high throughput technique of RNAscope® in FFPE samples. This study provides the foundation for future prospective research of GD2S and GD3S utilizing RNAscope®.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacqueline D Murphy
- Department of Small Animal Clinical Sciences, University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine, 2015 SW 16th Ave, Gainesville, FL 32608, United States
| | - Sandra Axiak-Bechtel
- Department of Small Animal Clinical Sciences, University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine, 2015 SW 16th Ave, Gainesville, FL 32608, United States.
| | - Rowan J Milner
- Department of Small Animal Clinical Sciences, University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine, 2015 SW 16th Ave, Gainesville, FL 32608, United States
| | - Amandine Lejeune
- Department of Small Animal Clinical Sciences, University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine, 2015 SW 16th Ave, Gainesville, FL 32608, United States
| | - Robert J Ossiboff
- Department of Comparative, Diagnostic, and Population Medicine, University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine, 2015 SW 16th Ave, Gainesville, FL 32608, United States
| | - Jessy Castellanos Gell
- Department of Small Animal Clinical Sciences, University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine, 2015 SW 16th Ave, Gainesville, FL 32608, United States
| | - Keijiro Shiomitsu
- Department of Small Animal Clinical Sciences, University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine, 2015 SW 16th Ave, Gainesville, FL 32608, United States
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Caudill M, Logan TD, Childress A, Guzman-Vargas V, Enge KM, Shender LA, Ossiboff RJ. Multisystemic Enterococcosis in Brown Anoles (Anolis sagrei) from Florida, USA. J Wildl Dis 2023:491762. [PMID: 36989509 DOI: 10.7589/jwd-d-22-00045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2022] [Accepted: 10/17/2022] [Indexed: 03/31/2023]
Abstract
Beginning in July 2019, numerous free-ranging brown anoles (Anolis sagrei), an invasive lizard species in Florida, USA, were reported with large, soft, subcutaneous masses and disfiguring facial swellings. Postmortem evaluations of six affected animals, including cytology, histology, and electron microscopy, identified the presence of myriad chain-forming coccoid bacteria surrounded by a prominent clear capsule and abundant lightly basophilic matrix material with minimal associated granulomatous inflammation and effacement of normal tissue. Standard PCR and sequencing of the lesions revealed 100% nucleotide identity to Enterococcus lacertideformus. This bacterium was first observed in 2014 as the cause of a severe, multisystemic infection in several species of lizards (geckos and skinks) on Christmas Island, an Australian external territory in the Indian Ocean. Previously, analysis of E. lacertideformus had been hindered by an inability to grow the bacterium in standard culture conditions. We successfully cultured the organism on primary anole kidney cells. Given the growing recognition of host species diversity and geographic distribution noted for this organism, there is potential concern for spread to native North American lizards, especially the green anole (Anolis carolinensis), whose population numbers have apparently decreased due to introduced brown anoles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Megan Caudill
- Department of Comparative, Diagnostic, and Population Medicine, PO Box 100123, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville 32610-0123, Florida, USA
| | - Tracey D Logan
- Department of Comparative, Diagnostic, and Population Medicine, PO Box 100123, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville 32610-0123, Florida, USA
| | - April Childress
- Department of Comparative, Diagnostic, and Population Medicine, PO Box 100123, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville 32610-0123, Florida, USA
| | - Veronica Guzman-Vargas
- Fish and Wildlife Research Institute, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, 1105 SW Williston Rd, Gainesville 32601, Florida, USA
| | - Kevin M Enge
- Fish and Wildlife Research Institute, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, 1105 SW Williston Rd, Gainesville 32601, Florida, USA
| | - Lisa A Shender
- Fish and Wildlife Research Institute, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, 1105 SW Williston Rd, Gainesville 32601, Florida, USA
| | - Robert J Ossiboff
- Department of Comparative, Diagnostic, and Population Medicine, PO Box 100123, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville 32610-0123, Florida, USA
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Claunch NM, Goodman CM, Harman M, Vilchez M, Smit SD, Kluever BM, Wellehan JFX, Ossiboff RJ, Romagosa CM. Dermatomycosis Caused by Paranannizziopsis australasiensis in Nonnative Panther Chameleons (Furcifer pardalis) Captured in Central Florida, USA. J Wildl Dis 2023:491787. [PMID: 36996061 DOI: 10.7589/jwd-d-22-00018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2022] [Accepted: 10/11/2022] [Indexed: 03/31/2023]
Abstract
Emergent fungal pathogens in herpetofauna are a concern in both wild and captive populations. We diagnosed dermatomycosis by Paranannizziopsis australasiensis in two panther chameleons (Furcifer pardalis) and suspected it in eight others captured from an established free-living nonnative population in Florida, USA. Chameleons developed skin lesions following recent exposure to cold weather conditions while housed in captivity, approximately 10 mo after capture and 12 wk after being placed in outdoor enclosures. Affected animals were treated with oral voriconazole and terbinafine until most cases resolved; however, medications were ultimately discontinued. Paranannizziopsis australasiensis has not previously been described in chameleons, nor in animals originating from a free-ranging population in the USA. Although the source of P. australasiensis infection is uncertain, we discuss several scenarios related to the pet trade and unique situation of chameleon "ranching" present in the USA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalie M Claunch
- Department of Wildlife Ecology and Conservation, 110 Newins-Ziegler Hall, PO Box 110430, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida 32611, USA
| | - Colin M Goodman
- Department of Wildlife Ecology and Conservation, 110 Newins-Ziegler Hall, PO Box 110430, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida 32611, USA
| | - Madison Harman
- Department of Wildlife Ecology and Conservation, 110 Newins-Ziegler Hall, PO Box 110430, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida 32611, USA
| | - Mariaguadalupe Vilchez
- Department of Wildlife Ecology and Conservation, 110 Newins-Ziegler Hall, PO Box 110430, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida 32611, USA
| | - Savanna D Smit
- School of Forest, Fisheries, and Geomatics Sciences, 136 Newins-Ziegler Hall, PO Box 110410, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida 32611, USA
| | - Bryan M Kluever
- Florida Field Station, National Wildlife Research Center, Wildlife Services, US Department of Agriculture, 2820 East University Avenue, Gainesville, Florida 32641, USA
| | - James F X Wellehan
- Department of Comparative, Diagnostic & Population Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida 32610, USA
| | - Robert J Ossiboff
- Department of Comparative, Diagnostic & Population Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida 32610, USA
| | - Christina M Romagosa
- Department of Wildlife Ecology and Conservation, 110 Newins-Ziegler Hall, PO Box 110430, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida 32611, USA
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Murphy JD, Shiomitsu K, Milner RJ, Lejeune A, Ossiboff RJ, Gell JC, Axiak-Bechtel S. Characterization of expression and prognostic implications of transforming growth factor beta, programmed death-ligand 1, and T regulatory cells in canine histiocytic sarcoma. Vet Immunol Immunopathol 2023; 257:110560. [PMID: 36804838 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetimm.2023.110560] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2022] [Revised: 02/03/2023] [Accepted: 02/05/2023] [Indexed: 02/15/2023]
Abstract
Histiocytic sarcoma (HS) is an aggressive malignant neoplasm in dogs. Expression and prognostic significance of transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β), programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1), and T regulatory cells (Tregs) in HS is unknown. The goal of this study was to investigate the expression and prognostic significance of TGF-β, PD-L1, and FoxP3/CD25 in canine HS utilizing RNA in situ hybridization (RNAscope®). After validation was performed, RNAscope® on formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded (FFPE) patient HS tissue samples was performed for all targets and expression quantified with HALO® software image analysis. Cox proportional hazard model was conducted to investigate the association between survival time and each variable. Additionally, for categorical data, the Kaplan-Meier product-limit method was used to generate survival curves. TGF-β and PD-L1 mRNA expression was confirmed in the DH82 cell line by reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and CD25 + FoxP3 + cells were detected by flow cytometry in peripheral blood. Once the RNAscope® method was validated, TGF-β H-score and dots/cell and FoxP3 dots/cell were assessed in HS samples and found to be significantly correlated with survival. Moderate positive correlations were found between FoxP3 and PD-L1 H-score, percent staining area, and dots/cell, and FoxP3 and TGF-β dots/cell. In summary, RNAscope® is a valid technique to detect TGF-β and PD-L1 expression and identify Tregs in canine HS FFPE tissues. Furthermore, canine HS expresses TGF-β and PD-L1. Increased TGF-β and FoxP3 correlated with worse prognosis. Prospective studies are warranted to further investigate TGF-β, PD-L1, and Tregs effect on prognosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacqueline D Murphy
- Department of Small Animal Clinical Sciences, University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine, 2015 SW 16th Ave, Gainesville, FL 32608, United States
| | - Keijiro Shiomitsu
- Department of Small Animal Clinical Sciences, University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine, 2015 SW 16th Ave, Gainesville, FL 32608, United States
| | - Rowan J Milner
- Department of Small Animal Clinical Sciences, University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine, 2015 SW 16th Ave, Gainesville, FL 32608, United States
| | - Amandine Lejeune
- Department of Small Animal Clinical Sciences, University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine, 2015 SW 16th Ave, Gainesville, FL 32608, United States
| | - Robert J Ossiboff
- Department of Comparative, Diagnostic, and Population Medicine, University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine, 2015 SW 16th Ave, Gainesville, FL 32608, United States
| | - Jessy Castellanos Gell
- Department of Small Animal Clinical Sciences, University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine, 2015 SW 16th Ave, Gainesville, FL 32608, United States
| | - Sandra Axiak-Bechtel
- Department of Small Animal Clinical Sciences, University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine, 2015 SW 16th Ave, Gainesville, FL 32608, United States.
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Farrell TM, Walden HDS, Ossiboff RJ. The invasive pentastome Raillietiella orientalis in a banded water snake from the pet trade. J Vet Diagn Invest 2023; 35:201-203. [PMID: 36600497 PMCID: PMC9999401 DOI: 10.1177/10406387221147856] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Raillietiella orientalis is established in Florida and rapidly spreading both geographically and in known host species. A banded water snake (Nerodia fasciata), purchased in Michigan at a regional reptile show, expectorated a pentastome whose morphology and DNA sequence indicated that it was R. orientalis. This event indicates that, through the pet trade, R. orientalis has been spread 1,500 km from its previously known distribution limit. Fecal sample analyses indicated that the snake was shedding large numbers of embryonated eggs for at least several months. The diversity of reptile species that are both known hosts of R. orientalis in Florida and are commonly sold in the pet trade indicates that this invasive pentastome may become a widespread health concern for pet owners and veterinarians.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Heather D. S. Walden
- Department of Comparative, Diagnostic and Population Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Robert J. Ossiboff
- Department of Comparative, Diagnostic and Population Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Gainesville, FL, USA
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11
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Laovechprasit W, Young KT, Stacy BA, Tillis SB, Ossiboff RJ, Vann JA, Subramaniam K, Agnew DW, Howerth EW, Zhang J, Whitaker S, Walker A, Orgill AM, Howell LN, Shaver DJ, Donnelly K, Foley AM, Stanton JB. Piscichuvirus-Associated Severe Meningoencephalomyelitis in Aquatic Turtles, United States, 2009-2021. Emerg Infect Dis 2023; 30:280-288. [PMID: 38270209 PMCID: PMC10826744 DOI: 10.3201/eid3002.231142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Viruses from a new species of piscichuvirus were strongly associated with severe lymphocytic meningoencephalomyelitis in several free-ranging aquatic turtles from 3 coastal US states during 2009-2021. Sequencing identified 2 variants (freshwater turtle neural virus 1 [FTuNV1] and sea turtle neural virus 1 [STuNV1]) of the new piscichuvirus species in 3 turtles of 3 species. In situ hybridization localized viral mRNA to the inflamed region of the central nervous system in all 3 sequenced isolates and in 2 of 3 additional nonsequenced isolates. All 3 sequenced isolates phylogenetically clustered with other vertebrate chuvirids within the genus Piscichuvirus. FTuNV1 and STuNV1 shared ≈92% pairwise amino acid identity of the large protein, which narrowly places them within the same novel species. The in situ association of the piscichuviruses in 5 of 6 turtles (representing 3 genera) with lymphocytic meningoencephalomyelitis suggests that piscichuviruses are a likely cause of lymphocytic meningoencephalomyelitis in freshwater and marine turtles.
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Kaganer AW, Ossiboff RJ, Keith NI, Schuler KL, Comizzoli P, Hare MP, Fleischer RC, Gratwicke B, Bunting EM. Immune priming prior to pathogen exposure sheds light on the relationship between host, microbiome and pathogen in disease. R Soc Open Sci 2023; 10:220810. [PMID: 36756057 PMCID: PMC9890126 DOI: 10.1098/rsos.220810] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2022] [Accepted: 01/04/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Dynamic interactions between host, pathogen and host-associated microbiome dictate infection outcomes. Pathogens including Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis (Bd) threaten global biodiversity, but conservation efforts are hindered by limited understanding of amphibian host, Bd and microbiome interactions. We conducted a vaccination and infection experiment using Eastern hellbender salamanders (Cryptobranchus alleganiensis alleganiensis) challenged with Bd to observe infection, skin microbial communities and gene expression of host skin, pathogen and microbiome throughout the experiment. Most animals survived high Bd loads regardless of their vaccination status and vaccination did not affect pathogen load, but host gene expression differed based on vaccination. Oral vaccination (exposure to killed Bd) stimulated immune gene upregulation while topically and sham-vaccinated animals did not significantly upregulate immune genes. In early infection, topically vaccinated animals upregulated immune genes but orally and sham-vaccinated animals downregulated immune genes. Bd increased pathogenicity-associated gene expression in late infection when Bd loads were highest. The microbiome was altered by Bd, but there was no correlation between anti-Bd microbe abundance or richness and pathogen burden. Our observations suggest that hellbenders initially generate a vigorous immune response to Bd, which is ineffective at controlling disease and is subsequently modulated. Interactions with antifungal skin microbiota did not influence disease progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alyssa W. Kaganer
- Department of Natural Resources and the Environment, College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, 14853, USA
- Smithsonian's National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute, Washington, DC, 20008, USA
- Cornell Wildlife Health Laboratory, Animal Health Diagnostic Center, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, 14853, USA
| | - Robert J. Ossiboff
- Cornell Wildlife Health Laboratory, Animal Health Diagnostic Center, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, 14853, USA
- Department of Population Medicine and Diagnostic Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, 14853, USA
- Department of Comparative, Diagnostic, and Population Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, 32611, USA
| | - Nicole I. Keith
- Cornell Wildlife Health Laboratory, Animal Health Diagnostic Center, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, 14853, USA
- Department of Population Medicine and Diagnostic Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, 14853, USA
- Biology Department, Hamilton College, Clinton, NY, 13323, USA
| | - Krysten L. Schuler
- Cornell Wildlife Health Laboratory, Animal Health Diagnostic Center, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, 14853, USA
- Department of Population Medicine and Diagnostic Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, 14853, USA
| | - Pierre Comizzoli
- Smithsonian's National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute, Washington, DC, 20008, USA
| | - Matthew P. Hare
- Department of Natural Resources and the Environment, College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, 14853, USA
| | - Robert C. Fleischer
- Smithsonian's National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute, Washington, DC, 20008, USA
| | - Brian Gratwicke
- Smithsonian's National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute, Front Royal, VA, 22630, USA
| | - Elizabeth M. Bunting
- Cornell Wildlife Health Laboratory, Animal Health Diagnostic Center, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, 14853, USA
- Department of Population Medicine and Diagnostic Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, 14853, USA
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13
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Tillis SB, Josimovich JM, Miller MA, Hoon-Hanks LL, Hartmann AM, Claunch NM, Iredale ME, Logan TD, Yackel Adams AA, Bartoszek IA, Humphrey JS, Kluever BM, Stenglein MD, Reed RN, Romagosa CM, Wellehan JFX, Ossiboff RJ. Divergent Serpentoviruses in Free-Ranging Invasive Pythons and Native Colubrids in Southern Florida, United States. Viruses 2022; 14:v14122726. [PMID: 36560729 PMCID: PMC9782103 DOI: 10.3390/v14122726] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2022] [Revised: 11/29/2022] [Accepted: 11/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Burmese python (Python bivittatus) is an invasive snake that has significantly affected ecosystems in southern Florida, United States. Aside from direct predation and competition, invasive species can also introduce nonnative pathogens that can adversely affect native species. The subfamily Serpentovirinae (order Nidovirales) is composed of positive-sense RNA viruses primarily found in reptiles. Some serpentoviruses, such as shingleback nidovirus, are associated with mortalities in wild populations, while others, including ball python nidovirus and green tree python nidovirus can be a major cause of disease and mortality in captive animals. To determine if serpentoviruses were present in invasive Burmese pythons in southern Florida, oral swabs were collected from both free-ranging and long-term captive snakes. Swabs were screened for the presence of serpentovirus by reverse transcription PCR and sequenced. A total serpentovirus prevalence of 27.8% was detected in 318 python samples. Of the initial swabs from 172 free-ranging pythons, 42 (24.4%) were positive for multiple divergent viral sequences comprising four clades across the sampling range. Both sex and snout-vent length were statistically significant factors in virus prevalence, with larger male snakes having the highest prevalence. Sampling location was statistically significant in circulating virus sequence. Mild clinical signs and lesions consistent with serpentovirus infection were observed in a subset of sampled pythons. Testing of native snakes (n = 219, 18 species) in part of the python range found no evidence of python virus spillover; however, five individual native snakes (2.3%) representing three species were PCR positive for unique, divergent serpentoviruses. Calculated pairwise uncorrected distance analysis indicated the newly discovered virus sequences likely represent three novel genera in the subfamily Serpentovirinae. This study is the first to characterize serpentovirus in wild free-ranging pythons or in any free-ranging North America reptile. Though the risk these viruses pose to the invasive and native species is unknown, the potential for spillover to native herpetofauna warrants further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steven B. Tillis
- Department of Comparative, Diagnostic, and Population Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32608, USA
| | - Jillian M. Josimovich
- U.S. Geological Survey, Fort Collins Science Center-South Florida Field Station in Everglades National Park, 40001 SR 9336, Homestead, FL 33034, USA
| | - Melissa A. Miller
- Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, Davie, FL 33314, USA
| | - Laura L. Hoon-Hanks
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Pathology, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO 80521, USA
| | - Arik M. Hartmann
- Department of Biology, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32608, USA
| | - Natalie M. Claunch
- Department of Wildlife Ecology and Conservation, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32608, USA
- School of Natural Resources and Environment, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32608, USA
| | - Marley E. Iredale
- Department of Comparative, Diagnostic, and Population Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32608, USA
| | - Tracey D. Logan
- Department of Comparative, Diagnostic, and Population Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32608, USA
| | - Amy A. Yackel Adams
- U.S. Geological Survey, Fort Collins Science Center, Fort Collins, CO 80526, USA
| | - Ian A. Bartoszek
- Conservancy of Southwest Florida, Environmental Science Department, Naples, FL 34102, USA
| | - John S. Humphrey
- U.S. Department of Agriculture, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, Wildlife Services, National Wildlife Research Center, Gainesville, FL 32641, USA
| | - Bryan M. Kluever
- U.S. Department of Agriculture, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, Wildlife Services, National Wildlife Research Center, Gainesville, FL 32641, USA
| | - Mark D. Stenglein
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Pathology, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO 80521, USA
| | - Robert N. Reed
- U.S. Geological Survey, Fort Collins Science Center, Fort Collins, CO 80526, USA
| | - Christina M. Romagosa
- Department of Wildlife Ecology and Conservation, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32608, USA
| | - James F. X. Wellehan
- Department of Comparative, Diagnostic, and Population Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32608, USA
| | - Robert J. Ossiboff
- Department of Comparative, Diagnostic, and Population Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32608, USA
- Correspondence:
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14
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Dolan JK, Stacy NI, Lo M, Ossiboff RJ, Lanier CJ. What is your diagnosis? Blood film from a Yacare caiman (Caiman yacare). Vet Clin Pathol 2022; 51:605-608. [PMID: 35224750 DOI: 10.1111/vcp.13096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2021] [Revised: 11/03/2021] [Accepted: 11/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Jacqueline K Dolan
- Department of Comparative, Diagnostic, & Population Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Nicole I Stacy
- Department of Comparative, Diagnostic, & Population Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Ming Lo
- Department of Comparative, Diagnostic, & Population Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Robert J Ossiboff
- Department of Comparative, Diagnostic, & Population Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Christopher J Lanier
- Department of Comparative, Diagnostic, & Population Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
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15
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Claunch NM, Bartoszek IA, Tillis S, Stacy NI, Ossiboff RJ, Oakey S, Schoenle LA, Wellehan JFX, Romagosa CM. Physiological effects of capture and short-term captivity in an invasive snake species, the Burmese python (Python bivittatus) in Florida. Comp Biochem Physiol A Mol Integr Physiol 2022; 267:111162. [PMID: 35149178 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbpa.2022.111162] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2021] [Revised: 02/04/2022] [Accepted: 02/04/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
It is important to evaluate the role of captivity as a potential stressor. An understanding of stress responses to capture and transition to captivity may inform the limitations of laboratory studies on wild animals, aid in understanding the consequences of introducing animals into captive environments, and help predict which species may be successful invasives. We investigated physiological effects of captivity by comparing at-capture blood variables in wild Burmese pythons (Python bivittatus) in Florida to pythons recently brought into captivity (1-109 days). We conducted an acute restraint test by collecting samples at baseline (immediately at handling) and one hour post-restraint across wild field-sampled (n = 19) and recently-captive (n = 33) pythons to evaluate fluctuations in plasma corticosterone, bacterial killing ability, antibody response, leukogram, and serpentovirus infection. We observed higher baseline plasma corticosterone and monocytes in recently captive compared to wild snakes, which both subsided in snakes held for a longer time in captivity, and a mild decrease in lymphocytes in the middle of the captivity period. Functional immunity and viral infection were not affected by captivity, and pythons maintained restraint-induced responses in corticosterone, heterophil to lymphocyte ratio, and monocyte counts throughout captivity. Prevalence for serpentovirus was 50%, though infection status was related to sampling date rather than captivity, indicating that viral infection may be seasonal. The history of Burmese python as a common captive animal for research and pet trade, as well as its general resilience to effects of capture and short-term captivity, may contribute to its invasion success in Florida.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalie M Claunch
- School of Natural Resources and Environment, University of Florida, USA.
| | | | - Steve Tillis
- College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, USA
| | - Nicole I Stacy
- College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, USA
| | | | - Samantha Oakey
- College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Georgia, USA
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Pohly AG, Nijveldt EA, Stone MS, Walden HDS, Ossiboff RJ, Conrado FO. Infection with the fox lungworm (Crenosoma vulpis) in two dogs from New England - Two clinical reports and updated geographic distribution in North America. Vet Parasitol Reg Stud Reports 2022; 30:100714. [PMID: 35431072 DOI: 10.1016/j.vprsr.2022.100714] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2021] [Revised: 02/13/2022] [Accepted: 03/02/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Crenosoma vulpis, the fox lungworm, is a helminth parasite endemic to the fox population of New England. Domestic dogs are susceptible to infection via ingestion of snails and slugs. Two dogs from New England were diagnosed with C. vulpis. The predominant clinical sign in both dogs was a chronic cough. Treatment with steroids and antibiotics only temporarily relieved clinical signs. Thoracic radiographs in both dogs revealed bronchial patterns. Endotracheal washes were performed in each dog revealing marked, mixed inflammation consisting mainly of neutrophils with eosinophils in lesser numbers. Helminth larvae could also be visualized on cytology. A fecal flotation revealed helminth larvae in one dog but failed to identify larvae in the second dog. The diagnosis of C. vulpis was confirmed via PCR analysis and sequencing of samples from both endotracheal washes. One dog was treated with fenbendazole (50 mg/kg PO q24h for 14 days), enrofloxacin (13 mg/kg PO q 24 h for 5 days), and a tapering protocol of prednisone (20 mg PO q12h for 5 days, 20 mg PO q24h for 5 days, then 20 mg PO q48h for 10 days). The second dog was treated with fenbendazole (50 mg/kg PO q24h for 10 days) with an additional 7 days of febantel and two doses of milbemycin, achieving complete resolution of clinical signs. This lungworm is becoming increasingly more prevalent in domestic dogs worldwide and may be more prevalent in New England than previously thought. Veterinary practitioners of New England should include this respiratory helminth as a differential in dogs with respiratory signs, and respiratory washes and Baermann fecal examinations are warranted in dogs presenting with non-specific respiratory clinical signs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alene G Pohly
- Department of Comparative Pathobiology, Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine at Tufts University, North Grafton, MA 01536, United States of America
| | - Eline A Nijveldt
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine at Tufts University, North Grafton, MA 01536, United States of America
| | - Michael S Stone
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine at Tufts University, North Grafton, MA 01536, United States of America
| | - Heather D S Walden
- Department of Comparative, Diagnostic & Population Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32608, United States of America
| | - Robert J Ossiboff
- Department of Comparative, Diagnostic & Population Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32608, United States of America
| | - Francisco O Conrado
- Department of Comparative Pathobiology, Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine at Tufts University, North Grafton, MA 01536, United States of America.
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17
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Waltzek TB, Stacy BA, Ossiboff RJ, Stacy NI, Fraser WA, Yan A, Mohan S, Koonin EV, Wolf YI, Rodrigues TCS, Viadanna PHO, Subramaniam K, Popov VL, Guzman-Vargas V, Shender LA. A novel group of negative-sense RNA viruses associated with epizootics in managed and free-ranging freshwater turtles in Florida, USA. PLoS Pathog 2022; 18:e1010258. [PMID: 35275967 PMCID: PMC8916662 DOI: 10.1371/journal.ppat.1010258] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2021] [Accepted: 01/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Few aquatic animal negative-sense RNA viruses have been characterized, and their role in disease is poorly understood. Here, we describe a virus isolated from diseased freshwater turtles from a Florida farm in 2007 and from an ongoing epizootic among free-ranging populations of Florida softshell turtles (Apalone ferox), Florida red-bellied cooters (Pseudemys nelsoni), and peninsula cooters (Pseudemys peninsularis). Affected turtles presented with similar neurological signs, oral and genital ulceration, and secondary microbial infections. Microscopic lesions were most severe in the softshell turtles and included heterophilic/histiocytic meningoencephalitis, multi-organ vasculitis, and cytologic observation of leukocytic intracytoplasmic inclusions. The virus was isolated using Terrapene heart (TH-1) cells. Ultrastructurally, viral particles were round to pleomorphic and acquired an envelope with prominent surface projections by budding from the cell membrane. Viral genomes were sequenced from cDNA libraries of two nearly identical isolates and determined to be bi-segmented, with an ambisense coding arrangement. The larger segment encodes a predicted RNA-directed RNA polymerase (RdRP) and a putative zinc-binding matrix protein. The smaller segment encodes a putative nucleoprotein and an envelope glycoprotein precursor (GPC). Thus, the genome organization of this turtle virus resembles that of arenaviruses. Phylogenetic analysis shows that the RdRP of the turtle virus is highly diverged from the RdRPs of all known negative-sense RNA viruses and forms a deep branch within the phylum Negarnaviricota, that is not affiliated with any known group of viruses, even at the class level. In contrast, the GPC protein of the turtle virus is confidently affiliated with homologs from a distinct group of fish hantaviruses. Thus, the turtle virus is expected to become the founder of a new taxon of negative-sense RNA viruses, at least with a family rank, but likely, an order or even a class. These viruses probably evolved either by reassortment or by intrasegment recombination between a virus from a distinct branch of negarnaviruses distant from all known groups and a hanta-like aquatic virus. We suggest the provisional name Tosoviridae for the putative new family, with Turtle fraservirus 1 (TFV1) as the type species within the genus Fraservirus. A conventional RT-PCR assay, targeting the TFV1 RdRP, confirmed the presence of viral RNA in multiple tissues and exudates from diseased turtles. The systemic nature of the TFV1 infection was further supported by labeling of cells within lesions using in situ hybridization targeting the RNA of the TFV1 RdRP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas B. Waltzek
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Immunology, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| | - Brian A. Stacy
- NOAA, National Marine Fisheries Service, Office of Protected Resources, University of Florida (duty station), Gainesville, Florida, United States of America
| | - Robert J. Ossiboff
- Department of Comparative, Diagnostic, and Population Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, United States of America
| | - Nicole I. Stacy
- Department of Comparative, Diagnostic, and Population Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, United States of America
| | - William A. Fraser
- Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, Bronson Animal Disease Diagnostic Laboratory, Kissimmee, Florida, United States of America
| | - Annie Yan
- Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, Bronson Animal Disease Diagnostic Laboratory, Kissimmee, Florida, United States of America
| | - Shipra Mohan
- Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, Bronson Animal Disease Diagnostic Laboratory, Kissimmee, Florida, United States of America
| | - Eugene V. Koonin
- National Center for Biotechnology Information, National Library of Medicine, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Yuri I. Wolf
- National Center for Biotechnology Information, National Library of Medicine, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Thais C. S. Rodrigues
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Immunology, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, United States of America
| | - Pedro H. O. Viadanna
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Immunology, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, United States of America
| | - Kuttichantran Subramaniam
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Immunology, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, United States of America
| | - Vsevolod L. Popov
- Center for Biodefense and Emerging Infectious Diseases, Institute for Human Infections and Immunity, the University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas, United States of America
| | - Veronica Guzman-Vargas
- Fish and Wildlife Research Institute, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, Gainesville, Florida, United States of America
| | - Lisa A. Shender
- Fish and Wildlife Research Institute, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, Gainesville, Florida, United States of America
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18
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Hartmann AM, Maddox ML, Ossiboff RJ, Longo AV. Sustained Ranavirus Outbreak Causes Mass Mortality and Morbidity of Imperiled Amphibians in Florida. Ecohealth 2022; 19:8-14. [PMID: 35000043 DOI: 10.1007/s10393-021-01572-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2021] [Accepted: 11/10/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
A persistent 2-month long outbreak of Ranavirus in a natural community of amphibians contributed to a mass die-off of gopher frog tadpoles (Lithobates capito) and severe disease in striped newts (Notophthalmus perstriatus) in Florida. Ongoing mortality in L. capito and disease signs in N. perstriatus continued for 5 weeks after the first observation. Hemorrhagic disease and necrosis were diagnosed from pathological examination of L. capito tadpoles. We confirmed detection of a frog virus 3 (FV3)-like Ranavirus via quantitative PCR in all species. Our findings highlight the susceptibility of these species to Rv and the need for long-term disease surveillance during epizootics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arik M Hartmann
- Department of Biology, College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, 32611, USA.
| | - Max L Maddox
- Department of Wildlife Ecology and Conservation, College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, 32611, USA
| | - Robert J Ossiboff
- Department of Comparative, Diagnostic, and Population Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, 32610, USA
| | - Ana V Longo
- Department of Biology, College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, 32611, USA
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19
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Jacobson ER, Ossiboff RJ, Paquet-Durand I, Childress AL, Barrett H, Marlin J, McAllister CT, Walden HDS. A NEW COCCIDIAN (APICOMPLEXA: EIMERIIDAE) IN THE CRITICALLY ENDANGERED CENTRAL AMERICAN RIVER TURTLE (DERMATEMYS MAWII) IN BELIZE. J Parasitol 2022; 108:93-99. [PMID: 35192694 DOI: 10.1645/21-44] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
As part of a biannual health examination, coprological samples from 3-mo-old Central American river turtles, Dermatemys mawii (Gray, 1847) in a breeding program in Belize, Central America, revealed a previously undescribed coccidian (Apicomplexa) in 17 of 46 (37%) samples. Of 3 positive fecal samples transported to the University of Florida, coccidian oocysts were observed in 1 sample. Sporulated oocysts were measured and described, and using polymerase chain reaction (PCR), an approximately 400-base pair (bp) region of both the small subunit (18S) ribosomal RNA gene and 1,200-bp region of the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) gene were amplified in all 3 samples and their products were sequenced. For comparative value, the same PCR reactions and amplifications were performed on a fecal sample containing oocysts of Eimeria mitraria obtained from a red-eared slider, Trachemys scripta elegans. Results indicated a new eimerian in D. mawii, Eimeria grayi n. sp.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elliott R Jacobson
- College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida 32610
| | - Robert J Ossiboff
- College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida 32610
| | | | - April L Childress
- College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida 32610
| | - Heather Barrett
- Belize Foundation for Research and Environmental Education, Mile Marker 58, Southern Highway, Toledo, Belize, Central America
| | - Jacob Marlin
- Belize Foundation for Research and Environmental Education, Mile Marker 58, Southern Highway, Toledo, Belize, Central America
| | - Chris T McAllister
- Science and Mathematics Division, Eastern Oklahoma State College, Idabel, Oklahoma 74745
| | - Heather D S Walden
- College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida 32610
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20
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Liguori BL, Ossiboff RJ, Stacy NI, Graham EA, Oliveira LJ, Childress AL, Giglio RF, Hamel PS, Turner RC, Alexander AB, Christman JE, Heard DJ, Wellehan JFX. AUSTWICKIA CHELONAE IN A WILD GOPHER TORTOISE (GOPHERUS POLYPHEMUS) AND EVIDENCE OF POSITIVE SELECTION ON THE DIPHTHERIA-LIKE TOXIN GENE. J Wildl Dis 2022; 58:1-7. [PMID: 34780647 DOI: 10.7589/jwd-d-20-00223] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2020] [Accepted: 07/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Austwickia (Dermatophilus) chelonae is a filamentous, Gram-positive Actinobacteria in the Dermatophilaceae family. It has caused fatal granulomatous disease in diverse captive reptile species on three continents, but its presence in wild or free-ranging populations was unknown. An adult female gopher tortoise (Gopherus polyphemus) was presented euhydrated, but cachectic and infested with ticks, with two firm, encapsulated masses over the cranioventral neck and right stifle. The tortoise had moderate nonregenerative anemia and evidence of inflammation; plasma biochemistry data was within normal limits. Fine needle aspirate of the neck lesion revealed abundant necrosis and aggregates of cocci. Computed tomography delineated the masses and revealed an additional mass adjacent to the left zygomatic bone. After surgical excision, histology identified chronic granulomas with intralesional filamentous bacteria. Pan-bacterial 16S rRNA PCR and sequencing of the masses identified A. chelonae. Despite treatment with oxytetracycline and ceftazidime, the tortoise deteriorated and was euthanatized. An esophageal lesion consistent with A. chelonae was seen on postmortem examination, although it was determined that the tortoise ultimately succumbed to fungal pneumonia caused by Metarhizium robertsii, an entomopathogenic biotoxin sprayed as insect control. This case reveals A. chelonae is present in free-ranging chelonians in North America. This organism produces a toxin gene similar to diphtheria toxin, one of the most potent known biotoxins, which has not been previously identified outside the genus Corynebacterium. Novel PCR primers were designed for the toxin and rpoB genes, which were amplified and sequenced from two cases and compared with two available genomes. Selection analysis revealed that the toxin gene is under positive selection, which implies it interacts significantly with the immune system, making it a good candidate for immunodiagnostic test development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brittany L Liguori
- Department of Comparative, Diagnostic, and Population Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, 2015 SW 16th Ave., Gainesville, Florida 32608, USA
| | - Robert J Ossiboff
- Department of Comparative, Diagnostic, and Population Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, 2015 SW 16th Ave., Gainesville, Florida 32608, USA
| | - Nicole I Stacy
- Department of Comparative, Diagnostic, and Population Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, 2015 SW 16th Ave., Gainesville, Florida 32608, USA
| | - Erin A Graham
- Department of Comparative, Diagnostic, and Population Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, 2015 SW 16th Ave., Gainesville, Florida 32608, USA
| | - Lilian J Oliveira
- Department of Comparative, Diagnostic, and Population Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, 2015 SW 16th Ave., Gainesville, Florida 32608, USA
| | - April L Childress
- Department of Comparative, Diagnostic, and Population Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, 2015 SW 16th Ave., Gainesville, Florida 32608, USA
| | - Robson F Giglio
- Department of Comparative, Diagnostic, and Population Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, 2015 SW 16th Ave., Gainesville, Florida 32608, USA
| | - Philip S Hamel
- Department of Comparative, Diagnostic, and Population Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, 2015 SW 16th Ave., Gainesville, Florida 32608, USA
| | - Rachel C Turner
- Department of Comparative, Diagnostic, and Population Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, 2015 SW 16th Ave., Gainesville, Florida 32608, USA
| | - Amy B Alexander
- Department of Comparative, Diagnostic, and Population Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, 2015 SW 16th Ave., Gainesville, Florida 32608, USA
| | - Jane E Christman
- Department of Comparative, Diagnostic, and Population Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, 2015 SW 16th Ave., Gainesville, Florida 32608, USA
| | - Darryl J Heard
- Department of Comparative, Diagnostic, and Population Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, 2015 SW 16th Ave., Gainesville, Florida 32608, USA
| | - James F X Wellehan
- Department of Comparative, Diagnostic, and Population Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, 2015 SW 16th Ave., Gainesville, Florida 32608, USA
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21
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Miller BM, Ossiboff RJ, Stacy NI. What is your diagnosis? Glossal imprint from a yellow-footed tortoise (Chelonoidis denticulata). Vet Clin Pathol 2021; 51:149-152. [PMID: 34697814 DOI: 10.1111/vcp.12997] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2020] [Revised: 12/23/2020] [Accepted: 01/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Bryce M Miller
- Department of Comparative, Diagnostic, and Population Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Robert J Ossiboff
- Department of Comparative, Diagnostic, and Population Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Nicole I Stacy
- Department of Comparative, Diagnostic, and Population Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
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22
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Desiderio TM, Stacy NI, Ossiboff RJ, Iredale M, Archer LL, Alexander AB, Heard DJ, Crevasse SE, Craft WF, Fredholm DVE, Donnelly KA, Rosenberg JF, Childress AL, Russell K, Wellehan JFX. Identification of a novel mortality-associated Helicobacter species in gopher tortoises (Gopherus polyphemus), qPCR test development and validation, and correlation with mortality in a wildlife rehabilitation population. Vet Microbiol 2021; 259:109136. [PMID: 34214906 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetmic.2021.109136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2020] [Accepted: 05/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
The genus Helicobacter includes spiral-shaped bacteria in the phylum Proteobacteria, class Epsilonproteobacteria, order Campylobacteriales, that have been associated with disease in animals, including reptiles. Three wild gopher tortoise (Gopherus polyphemus) index cases presented between 2012 and 2019 with nasal discharge, lethargy, and weight loss. Cytological examination of nasal discharge from all 3 tortoises identified marked heterophilic and mild histiocytic rhinitis with abundant extracellular and phagocytized spiral shaped bacteria that stained positive with Warthin-Starry stain. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and sequencing of the 16S rRNA gene revealed this to be a novel Helicobacter species. Two tortoises died despite treatment attempts, and the third was moribund and was euthanized. Histological examination of the nasal mucosa (n = 3) showed granulocytic to lymphocytic rhinitis with variable mucosal hyperplasia, erosion, and ulceration; Warthin-Starry staining highlighted the presence of spiral bacteria in the untreated tortoise. Genus-specific primers were designed, and the gyrA and groEL genes were amplified by PCR and sequenced. Phylogenetic analysis shows that this organism and other previously characterized Helicobacter from tortoises form a clade. Development and cross-validation of two qPCR diagnostic assays for the gyrA and groEL genes showed significant correlation of the results of two assays (P < 0.0001). These assays were used to survey nasal wash samples from 31 rehabilitating gopher tortoises. Mortality of tortoises significantly correlated with higher Helicobacter loads detected by qPCR (P = 0.028). Appropriate quarantine protocols for tortoises during rehabilitation should consider this organism. Upper respiratory disease in tortoises may involve complex microbial ecology; factors beyond Mycoplasmopsis (Mycoplasma) agassizii should be taken into account.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tasha M Desiderio
- Department of Comparative, Diagnostic, and Population Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, 32610, USA
| | - Nicole I Stacy
- Department of Comparative, Diagnostic, and Population Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, 32610, USA
| | - Robert J Ossiboff
- Department of Comparative, Diagnostic, and Population Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, 32610, USA
| | - Marley Iredale
- Department of Comparative, Diagnostic, and Population Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, 32610, USA
| | - Linda L Archer
- Department of Comparative, Diagnostic, and Population Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, 32610, USA
| | - Amy B Alexander
- Department of Comparative, Diagnostic, and Population Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, 32610, USA
| | - Darryl J Heard
- Department of Comparative, Diagnostic, and Population Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, 32610, USA
| | - Sarah E Crevasse
- Department of Comparative, Diagnostic, and Population Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, 32610, USA
| | - William F Craft
- Department of Comparative, Diagnostic, and Population Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, 32610, USA
| | - Daniel V E Fredholm
- Department of Comparative, Diagnostic, and Population Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, 32610, USA
| | - Kyle A Donnelly
- Brevard Zoo and Sea Turtle Healing Center, Melbourne, FL, 32940, USA
| | - Justin F Rosenberg
- Department of Comparative, Diagnostic, and Population Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, 32610, USA
| | - April L Childress
- Department of Comparative, Diagnostic, and Population Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, 32610, USA
| | - Kathy Russell
- Santa Fe College Teaching Zoo, Gainesville, FL, 32606, USA
| | - James F X Wellehan
- Department of Comparative, Diagnostic, and Population Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, 32610, USA.
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23
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Flanders AJ, Ossiboff RJ, Wellehan JFX, Alexander AB, Fredholm DVE, Desiderio TM, Stacy NI. Presumptive heterophil extracellular traps recognized cytologically in nine reptile patients with inflammatory conditions. Vet Q 2021; 41:89-96. [PMID: 33416037 PMCID: PMC7833021 DOI: 10.1080/01652176.2021.1873453] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) represent a novel cellular mechanism of antimicrobial defense activity. Intravascular neutrophils produce extracellular web-like structures composed of chromatin, histones, and cytoplasmic granule proteins to attack and kill microbes. They may impact both pathogen and host; NETs correlate strongly with disseminated intravascular coagulation and mortality in critically ill humans. The mechanism was first discovered in human neutrophils in 2004. Presumptive heterophil extracellular traps (HETs) in a non-avian reptile species were first described in blood films of a gopher tortoise with systemic inflammation. Objective While prior reports are limited to blood film review and in vitro studies, this descriptive case series highlights the cytological identification of presumptive HETs in nine reptile patients. Methods Subjects included six gopher tortoises, one blood python (Python curtus), one Burmese python (P. bivittatus), and one desert king snake (Lampropeltis getula splendida). All six gopher tortoises (Gopherus polyphemus) had upper respiratory disease with bacterial etiology (including Helicobacter sp. and/or Mycoplasma sp.), and snakes had upper respiratory tract infection confirmed with serpentovirus (n = 2) or bacterial dermatitis (n = 1). Results Cytology samples with identified HETs included tissue imprints (n = 4), nasal discharge (n = 3), an oral swab (n = 1), and a fine needle aspirate of a skin lesion (n = 1). The identification of specific bacterial (n = 6) and/or viral pathogens (n = 2) was notable. Clinical relevance To the authors’ knowledge, this is the first report of presumptive HETs recognized in reptile cytology specimens, suggesting an active cellular process in vivo in response to systemic inflammation in non-avian reptiles, and contributing to further understanding of extracellular traps in these species.
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Affiliation(s)
- A J Flanders
- Department of Comparative, Diagnostic, and Population Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - R J Ossiboff
- Department of Comparative, Diagnostic, and Population Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - J F X Wellehan
- Department of Comparative, Diagnostic, and Population Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - A B Alexander
- Department of Comparative, Diagnostic, and Population Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - D V E Fredholm
- Disney's Animals, Science and Environment, Disney's Animal Kingdom®, Bay Lake, FL, USA
| | - T M Desiderio
- Department of Comparative, Diagnostic, and Population Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - N I Stacy
- Department of Comparative, Diagnostic, and Population Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA.,Disney's Animals, Science and Environment, Disney's Animal Kingdom®, Bay Lake, FL, USA
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Woodburn DB, Kinsel MJ, Poll CP, Langan JN, Haman K, Gamble KC, Maddox C, Jeon AB, Wellehan JFX, Ossiboff RJ, Allender MC, Terio KA. Shell Lesions Associated With Emydomyces testavorans Infection in Freshwater Aquatic Turtles. Vet Pathol 2021; 58:578-586. [PMID: 33576328 DOI: 10.1177/0300985820985217] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
A newly described onygenalean fungus, Emydomyces testavorans, has been isolated from ulcerative shell and skin lesions of freshwater aquatic chelonians. To investigate the shell lesions associated with infection and determine if any lesional features were unique to E. testavorans, tissues from turtles housed in zoological institutions (n = 45) in the United States and free-living turtles (n = 5) submitted for diagnostic biopsy or necropsy were examined. Free-living turtles were from geographically distinct habitats in Florida (n = 1) and Washington (n = 4) at the time of sampling. Histologic shell sections were evaluated for the presence or absence of specific lesional features. Infection with E. testavorans was evaluated in all cases by screening GMS (Grocott-Gomori's methenamine silver)-stained histologic sections for the presence of morphologically consistent fungi and by quantitative PCR (polymerase chain reaction) on representative frozen tissue or formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded sections. Additionally, culture was performed for 15 cases with available fresh/frozen tissue. In total, there were 17 PCR-confirmed E. testavorans cases, 29 cases with morphologically consistent fungi on GMS-stained sections, and 21 cases of shell lesions without histologic or molecular evidence of E. testavorans infection. Epithelial inclusion cysts, defined as cystic structures within the dermis lined by keratinized stratified squamous epithelium and containing necrotic bone and keratin debris, were significantly (P < .01) associated with E. testavorans infection. Other significantly associated shell lesions included squamous metaplasia, hyperkeratosis, inflammation, and osteonecrosis (P < .05). This study identified characteristic shell lesions associated with E. testavorans infection. Further studies to prove causality are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel B Woodburn
- 70154University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Brookfield, IL, USA.,70154University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA
| | - Michael J Kinsel
- 70154University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Brookfield, IL, USA.,70154University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA
| | - Caryn P Poll
- A. Watson Armour III Center for Animal Health, 41512John G. Shedd Aquarium, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Jennifer N Langan
- 70154University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA.,Chicago Zoological Society, Brookfield Zoo, Brookfield, IL, USA
| | - Katherine Haman
- Wildlife Program, 266120Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife, Olympia, WA, USA
| | | | - Carol Maddox
- 70154University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA
| | | | | | | | - Matthew C Allender
- 70154University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA.,Chicago Zoological Society, Brookfield Zoo, Brookfield, IL, USA
| | - Karen A Terio
- 70154University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Brookfield, IL, USA.,70154University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA
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25
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Weisbrod TC, Jeon AB, Childress A, Pouder DB, Castellanos-Gell J, Stacy NI, Walden HDS, Garner MM, Yanong RPE, Ossiboff RJ. Gastrointestinal entamoebiasis in captive anurans in North America. Dis Aquat Organ 2021; 143:109-118. [PMID: 33570044 DOI: 10.3354/dao03560] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Infections with Entamoeba spp. are recognized as a cause of clinical disease in many species including humans and reptiles; however, cases in amphibians are under-reported. Investigation of a mortality event among a captive population of Cranwell's horned frogs Ceratophrys cranwelli at a production facility in Florida, USA, revealed that deaths were due to the newly described Entamoeba species CT1. Infection caused severe necroulcerative gastroenterocolitis with a predilection for the colon. To date, this Entamoeba species has only been described in invasive cane toads Rhinella marina in Australia. Retrospective screening of archived anuran cases from a zoological pathology service identified 8 cases from captive populations that had histological evidence of gastrointestinal entamoebiasis. Molecular characterization was positive in 3 cases. Two cases, 1 in a Puerto Rican crested toad Peltophryne lemur and 1 in an Amazon milk frog Trachycephalus resinifictrix, showed 100% homology to E. ranarum and 1 case in a White's tree frog Litoria caerulea showed 100% homology to Entamoeba sp. CT1. This is the first report of novel Entamoeba sp. CT1 being associated with clinical disease in anurans within North America and also the first report of this Entamoeba species causing disease within managed collections as far back as 2003.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tatiana C Weisbrod
- Department of Comparative, Diagnostic, and Population Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida 32610, USA
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26
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Tillis SB, Iredale ME, Childress AL, Graham EA, Wellehan JFX, Isaza R, Ossiboff RJ. Oral, Cloacal, and Hemipenal Actinomycosis in Captive Ball Pythons (Python regius). Front Vet Sci 2021; 7:594600. [PMID: 33490131 PMCID: PMC7820239 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2020.594600] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2020] [Accepted: 12/03/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Ball pythons (Python regius) are one of the most commonly kept and bred reptiles in captivity. In a large ball python breeding colony, a unique syndrome characterized by granulomatous inflammation of the cloaca and hemipenes (phalli) was observed in 140 of 481 (29.1%) breeding males, but only one of 1,446 breeding females. Lesions were absent in virgin males (n = 201) and virgin females (n = 293). On postmortem examination (n = 13, 12 males, 1 female), numerous well-defined mucosal and submucosal granulomas were present in the hemipenes (males) and cloaca (males and female). Extension into the coelomic cavity and liver was noted in a subset of these animals. An additional small subset of breeder animals (6/2027; 0.3%) presented with oral and mandibular swellings. Postmortem examination (n = 4, all female) showed oral lesions histologically indistinguishable from the cloacal/hemipenal lesions. Aerobic bacterial culture of a hepatic granuloma of one snake resulted in the isolation of filamentous, Gram-positive bacilli; amplification, and sequencing of the 16S rRNA gene and subsequent phylogenetic analysis of the isolate identified the bacterium as a novel species of Actinomyces. Screening of cloacal and oral granulomas using a specific, heminested 16S rRNA PCR assay confirmed the presence of the agent in all 17 snakes, as well as in cloacal swabs taken at the time of necropsy in 11/13 snakes. The Actinomyces sp. was also identified by PCR of cloacal swabs of unaffected snakes (n = 94) from the affected colony and two unrelated, grossly unaffected breeding colonies. In the affected colony, 65.5% of breeding animals (n = 23) but only 11.9% of virgin animals (n = 42) tested PCR positive, with breeding status being a significant predictor of bacterium presence (P < 0.00001). This study characterizes a granulomatous mucosal disease syndrome of breeding male ball pythons associated with a novel Actinomyces. In stark contrast to male snakes, the presence of the bacterium in both breeding and virgin females was very rarely associated with clinical disease. Though additional studies are necessary, these data suggest a role for the novel bacterium in the disease process, a predilection for clinical disease in male snakes, and the potential for sexual transmission of the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steven B Tillis
- Department of Comparative, Diagnostic, and Population Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - Marley E Iredale
- Department of Comparative, Diagnostic, and Population Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - April L Childress
- Department of Comparative, Diagnostic, and Population Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - Erin A Graham
- Department of Comparative, Diagnostic, and Population Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - James F X Wellehan
- Department of Comparative, Diagnostic, and Population Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - Ramiro Isaza
- Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - Robert J Ossiboff
- Department of Comparative, Diagnostic, and Population Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
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Gilbert M, Sulikhan N, Uphyrkina O, Goncharuk M, Kerley L, Castro EH, Reeve R, Seimon T, McAloose D, Seryodkin IV, Naidenko SV, Davis CA, Wilkie GS, Vattipally SB, Adamson WE, Hinds C, Thomson EC, Willett BJ, Hosie MJ, Logan N, McDonald M, Ossiboff RJ, Shevtsova EI, Belyakin S, Yurlova AA, Osofsky SA, Miquelle DG, Matthews L, Cleaveland S. Distemper, extinction, and vaccination of the Amur tiger. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2020; 117:31954-31962. [PMID: 33229566 PMCID: PMC7749280 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2000153117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Canine distemper virus (CDV) has recently emerged as an extinction threat for the endangered Amur tiger (Panthera tigris altaica). CDV is vaccine-preventable, and control strategies could require vaccination of domestic dogs and/or wildlife populations. However, vaccination of endangered wildlife remains controversial, which has led to a focus on interventions in domestic dogs, often assumed to be the source of infection. Effective decision making requires an understanding of the true reservoir dynamics, which poses substantial challenges in remote areas with diverse host communities. We carried out serological, demographic, and phylogenetic studies of dog and wildlife populations in the Russian Far East to show that a number of wildlife species are more important than dogs, both in maintaining CDV and as sources of infection for tigers. Critically, therefore, because CDV circulates among multiple wildlife sources, dog vaccination alone would not be effective at protecting tigers. We show, however, that low-coverage vaccination of tigers themselves is feasible and would produce substantive reductions in extinction risks. Vaccination of endangered wildlife provides a valuable component of conservation strategies for endangered species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin Gilbert
- Cornell Wildlife Health Center, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853;
- Boyd Orr Centre for Population and Ecosystem Health, Institute of Biodiversity Animal Health and Comparative Medicine, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G12 8QQ, United Kingdom
- Wildlife Conservation Society, Bronx, NY 10460
| | - Nadezhda Sulikhan
- Federal Scientific Center of the East Asia Terrestrial Biodiversity, Far Eastern Branch of Russian Academy of Sciences, Vladivostok 690022, Russia
- Land of the Leopard National Park, Vladivostok 690068, Russia
| | - Olga Uphyrkina
- Federal Scientific Center of the East Asia Terrestrial Biodiversity, Far Eastern Branch of Russian Academy of Sciences, Vladivostok 690022, Russia
| | - Mikhail Goncharuk
- Zoological Society of London, London NW1 4RY, United Kingdom
- Primorskaya State Agricultural Academy, Ussuriisk 692510, Russia
| | - Linda Kerley
- Zoological Society of London, London NW1 4RY, United Kingdom
- United Administration of Lazovsky Zapovednik and Zov Tigra National Park, Lazo 692890, Russia
- Autonomous Noncommercial Organization "Amur," Lazo 692890, Russia
| | - Enrique Hernandez Castro
- Boyd Orr Centre for Population and Ecosystem Health, Institute of Biodiversity Animal Health and Comparative Medicine, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G12 8QQ, United Kingdom
| | - Richard Reeve
- Boyd Orr Centre for Population and Ecosystem Health, Institute of Biodiversity Animal Health and Comparative Medicine, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G12 8QQ, United Kingdom
| | | | | | - Ivan V Seryodkin
- Pacific Geographical Institute, Far Eastern Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Vladivostok 690041, Russia
- Far Eastern Federal University, Vladivostok 690091 Russia
| | - Sergey V Naidenko
- A. N. Severtsov Institute of Ecology and Evolution, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow 119071, Russia
| | - Christopher A Davis
- Medical Research Council-University of Glasgow Centre for Virus Research, Glasgow G61 1QH, United Kingdom
| | - Gavin S Wilkie
- Medical Research Council-University of Glasgow Centre for Virus Research, Glasgow G61 1QH, United Kingdom
| | - Sreenu B Vattipally
- Medical Research Council-University of Glasgow Centre for Virus Research, Glasgow G61 1QH, United Kingdom
| | - Walt E Adamson
- Boyd Orr Centre for Population and Ecosystem Health, Institute of Biodiversity Animal Health and Comparative Medicine, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G12 8QQ, United Kingdom
- Medical Research Council-University of Glasgow Centre for Virus Research, Glasgow G61 1QH, United Kingdom
| | - Chris Hinds
- Medical Research Council-University of Glasgow Centre for Virus Research, Glasgow G61 1QH, United Kingdom
| | - Emma C Thomson
- Medical Research Council-University of Glasgow Centre for Virus Research, Glasgow G61 1QH, United Kingdom
| | - Brian J Willett
- Medical Research Council-University of Glasgow Centre for Virus Research, Glasgow G61 1QH, United Kingdom
| | - Margaret J Hosie
- Medical Research Council-University of Glasgow Centre for Virus Research, Glasgow G61 1QH, United Kingdom
| | - Nicola Logan
- Medical Research Council-University of Glasgow Centre for Virus Research, Glasgow G61 1QH, United Kingdom
| | - Michael McDonald
- Medical Research Council-University of Glasgow Centre for Virus Research, Glasgow G61 1QH, United Kingdom
| | - Robert J Ossiboff
- Department of Comparative, Diagnostic, and Population Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610
| | | | - Stepan Belyakin
- Institute of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Novosibirsk 630090, Russia
| | - Anna A Yurlova
- Institute of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Novosibirsk 630090, Russia
| | - Steven A Osofsky
- Cornell Wildlife Health Center, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853
| | | | - Louise Matthews
- Boyd Orr Centre for Population and Ecosystem Health, Institute of Biodiversity Animal Health and Comparative Medicine, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G12 8QQ, United Kingdom
| | - Sarah Cleaveland
- Boyd Orr Centre for Population and Ecosystem Health, Institute of Biodiversity Animal Health and Comparative Medicine, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G12 8QQ, United Kingdom
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Ossiboff RJ, Origgi FC, Stacy NI. Editorial: Health and Disease in Free-Ranging and Captive Wildlife. Front Vet Sci 2020; 7:620685. [PMID: 33365338 PMCID: PMC7750182 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2020.620685] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2020] [Accepted: 11/17/2020] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Robert J Ossiboff
- Department of Comparative, Diagnostic, and Population Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - Francesco C Origgi
- Vetsuisse Faculty, Centre for Fish and Wildlife Health, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Nicole I Stacy
- Department of Comparative, Diagnostic, and Population Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
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29
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Walden HDS, Iredale ME, Childress A, Wellehan JFX, Ossiboff RJ. Case Report: Invasive Pentastomes, Raillietiella orientalis (Sambon, 1922), in a Free-Ranging Banded Water Snake ( Nerodia fasciata) in North Central Florida, USA. Front Vet Sci 2020; 7:467. [PMID: 32851040 PMCID: PMC7417351 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2020.00467] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2020] [Accepted: 06/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Raillietiella orientalis is an obligate, crustacean parasite that resides in the respiratory tract of definitive snake hosts. Common throughout southeastern Asia and Australia, R. orientalis is believed to have been introduced into southern Florida, United States along with Burmese pythons (Python bivittatus) in the 1990s. While the invasive range of Burmese pythons is restricted to southern Florida, R. orientalis has advanced north in the state in native snake species. R. orientalis were recovered from the lungs, trachea, oral cavity, and esophagus of an emaciated adult female free-ranging banded water snake (Nerodia fasciata) in north central (Alachua County), Florida, USA. Concurrent findings included the recovery of Ochetosoma sp. trematodes from the oral cavity, and multifocal dermal lesions consistent with snake fungal disease (Ophidiomyces ophiodiicola). This is the first report of R. orientalis in north central Florida, well outside the invasive range of the Burmese python, documenting the substantial northward expansion of the known geographical range of this invasive pentastome in Florida.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heather D S Walden
- Department of Comparative, Diagnostic and Population Medicine, University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - Marley E Iredale
- Department of Comparative, Diagnostic and Population Medicine, University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - April Childress
- Department of Comparative, Diagnostic and Population Medicine, University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - James F X Wellehan
- Department of Comparative, Diagnostic and Population Medicine, University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - Robert J Ossiboff
- Department of Comparative, Diagnostic and Population Medicine, University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine, Gainesville, FL, United States
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30
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Furst N, Alexander A, Ossiboff RJ, Giglio R, Turner R, Swift S, Regier P, Porter E, Charles L, Wellehan JF. Tail base aneurysm in an inland bearded dragon (Pogona vitticeps). J Exot Pet Med 2020. [DOI: 10.1053/j.jepm.2020.02.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
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Christman JE, Alexander AB, Donnelly KA, Ossiboff RJ, Stacy NI, Richardson RL, Case JB, Childress AL, Wellehan JFX. Clinical Manifestation and Molecular Characterization of a Novel Member of the Nannizziopsiaceae in a Pulmonary Granuloma From a Galapagos Tortoise ( Chelonoidis nigra). Front Vet Sci 2020; 7:24. [PMID: 32118056 PMCID: PMC7018804 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2020.00024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2019] [Accepted: 01/13/2020] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Nannizziopsiaceae is a family of fungal organisms within the order Onygenales containing two genera of important reptile pathogens, Nannizziopsis and Paranannizziopsis. A captive Galapagos tortoise (Chelonoidis nigra) from Boca Raton, Florida, United States, was presented for a clinical history of chronic progressive lethargy and inappetence. At initial presentation, the tortoise had a moderate non-regenerative anemia, leukocytosis, whip-like heterophil projections, erythrocyte fragmentation, and fibrin strands, with the latter two raising concern for disseminated intravascular coagulation. A single large encapsulated pulmonary granuloma was identified through imaging, including plain film radiography and bronchoscopy. Direct intralesional samples were obtained from transcarapacial celioscopy for fungal culture, cytology, histopathology, and polymerase chain reaction. Amplification and sequencing of the ITS2 region of the rRNA genes with Bayesian and maximum likelihood analyses placed the fungus in the family Nannizziopsiaceae within the order Onygenales, representing a novel fungal species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jane E Christman
- Department of Comparative, Diagnostic and Population Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - Amy B Alexander
- Department of Comparative, Diagnostic and Population Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - Kyle A Donnelly
- Department of Comparative, Diagnostic and Population Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - Robert J Ossiboff
- Department of Comparative, Diagnostic and Population Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - Nicole I Stacy
- Department of Comparative, Diagnostic and Population Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - Rebecca L Richardson
- Department of Comparative, Diagnostic and Population Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - J Brad Case
- Department of Small Animal Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - April L Childress
- Department of Comparative, Diagnostic and Population Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - James F X Wellehan
- Department of Comparative, Diagnostic and Population Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
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32
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Raphael BL, Macey SK, Platt SG, Seimon TA, Ossiboff RJ, Horne BD, Gamarra AL, Barrera MG, Lwin T, Soe MM, Aung SH, New SS, Khaing LL, Platt K. Health Screening of Burmese Star Tortoises (Geochelone platynota) Prior to Introduction to the Wild. Chelonian Conservation and Biology 2019. [DOI: 10.2744/ccb-1353.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Bonnie L. Raphael
- Wildlife Conservation Society, 2300 Southern Boulevard, Bronx, New York 10460 USA [; ; ]
| | - Suzanne K. Macey
- American Museum of Natural History, Central Park West at 79th Street, New York, New York 10024 USA [; ; ]
| | - Steven G. Platt
- Wildlife Conservation Society, 2300 Southern Boulevard, Bronx, New York 10460 USA [; ; ]
| | - Tracie A. Seimon
- Wildlife Conservation Society, 2300 Southern Boulevard, Bronx, New York 10460 USA [; ; ]
| | - Robert J. Ossiboff
- Wildlife Conservation Society, 2300 Southern Boulevard, Bronx, New York 10460 USA [; ; ]
| | - Brian D. Horne
- Wildlife Conservation Society, 2300 Southern Boulevard, Bronx, New York 10460 USA [; ; ]
| | - Ariana L. Gamarra
- American Museum of Natural History, Central Park West at 79th Street, New York, New York 10024 USA [; ; ]
| | - Michelle G. Barrera
- American Museum of Natural History, Central Park West at 79th Street, New York, New York 10024 USA [; ; ]
| | - Tint Lwin
- Turtle Survival Alliance - Myanmar Program, No. 12, Nanrattaw Street, Kamayut Township, Yangon, Myanmar []
| | - Me Me Soe
- Turtle Survival Alliance - Myanmar Program, No. 12, Nanrattaw Street, Kamayut Township, Yangon, Myanmar []
| | - Shwe Htay Aung
- Myanmar Forest Department, Nature and Wildlife Conservation Division, Lawkanandar Wildlife Sanctuary, Bagan, Myanmar
| | - San San New
- Myanmar Forest Department, Nature and Wildlife Conservation Division, Minzontaung Wildlife Sanctuary, Natowgyi, Myanmar
| | - Lay Lay Khaing
- Myanmar Forest Department, Nature and Wildlife Conservation Division, Minzontaung Wildlife Sanctuary, Natowgyi, Myanmar
| | - Kalyar Platt
- Turtle Survival Alliance - Myanmar Program, No. 12, Nanrattaw Street, Kamayut Township, Yangon, Myanmar []
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Kirejczyk SGM, Burns RE, Hyatt MW, Yabsley MJ, Ter Beest JM, Gyimesi ZS, Ossiboff RJ, Waltman A, Seimon TA, McManamon R. Fatal Sarcocystis falcatula Infection in Three Penguins. Front Vet Sci 2019; 6:340. [PMID: 31649941 PMCID: PMC6795683 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2019.00340] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2019] [Accepted: 09/20/2019] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Sarcocystis falcatula is a well-known cause of fatal pneumonia in some birds, particularly Old World psittacines. Here we describe fatal sarcosystosis due to S. falcatula in 3 penguins (Family Spheniscidae) under managed care, including one African penguin (Spheniscus demersus), and two Southern rockhopper penguins (Eudyptes chrysocome). Randomly distributed foci of necrosis, inflammatory cell infiltrates, edema, and variable numbers of round to elongated protozoal schizonts were observed in sections of lung. Protozoal organisms exhibited strong immunoreactivity for Sarcocystis sp. antigen by immunohistochemistry. Apicomplexan and Sarcocystis genus-specific PCR assays and sequence analysis confirmed S. falcatula as the etiologic agent. These cases of fatal pneumonia attributed to S. falcatula expand the list of aberrant intermediate avian hosts, with particular implications for penguins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shannon G M Kirejczyk
- Department of Pathology, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, United States
| | - Rachel E Burns
- Connecticut Veterinary Medical Diagnostic Laboratory, Department of Pathobiology and Veterinary Science, College of Agriculture, Health and Natural Resources, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, United States
| | | | - Michael J Yabsley
- Southeastern Cooperative Wildlife Disease Study, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, United States.,Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, United States
| | | | | | | | - Amelia Waltman
- The Wildlife Conservation Society, Bronx, NY, United States
| | | | - Rita McManamon
- Department of Pathology, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, United States.,Zoo and Exotic Animal Pathology Service and Infectious Diseases Laboratory, Department of Small Animal Medicine and Surgery, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, United States
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Hoon-Hanks LL, Ossiboff RJ, Bartolini P, Fogelson SB, Perry SM, Stöhr AC, Cross ST, Wellehan JFX, Jacobson ER, Dubovi EJ, Stenglein MD. Longitudinal and Cross-Sectional Sampling of Serpentovirus (Nidovirus) Infection in Captive Snakes Reveals High Prevalence, Persistent Infection, and Increased Mortality in Pythons and Divergent Serpentovirus Infection in Boas and Colubrids. Front Vet Sci 2019; 6:338. [PMID: 31632990 PMCID: PMC6786048 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2019.00338] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2019] [Accepted: 09/19/2019] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The aim of this study of serpentovirus infection in captive snakes was to assess the susceptibility of different types of snakes to infection and disease, to survey viral genetic diversity, and to evaluate management practices that may limit infection and disease. Antemortem oral swabs were collected from 639 snakes from 12 US collections, including 62 species, 28 genera, and 6 families: Pythonidae (N = 414 snakes; pythons were overrepresented in the sample population), Boidae (79), Colubridae (116), Lamprophiidae (4), Elapidae (12), and Viperidae (14). Infection was more common in pythons (38%; 95% CI: 33.1-42.4%), and in boas (10%; 95% CI: 5.2-18.7%) than in colubrids (0.9%, 95% CI: <0.01-4.7%); infection was not detected in other snake families (lamprophiids 0/4, 95% CI: 0-49%; elapids 0/12, 95% CI: 0-24.2%; and vipers 0/14, 95% CI: 0-21.5%), but more of these snakes need to be tested to confirm these findings. Clinical signs of respiratory disease were common in infected pythons (85 of 144). Respiratory signs were only observed in 1 of 8 infected boas and were absent in the single infected colubrid. Divergent serpentoviruses were detected in pythons, boas, and colubrids, suggesting that different serpentoviruses might vary in their ability to infect snakes of different families. Older snakes were more likely to be infected than younger snakes (p-value < 0.001) but males and females were equally likely to be infected (female prevalence: 23.4%, 95% CI 18.7-28.9%; male prevalence: 23.5%, 95% CI 18-30.1%; p-value = 0.144). Neither age (p-value = 0.32) nor sex (p-value = 0.06) was statistically associated with disease severity. Longitudinal sampling of pythons in a single collection over 28 months revealed serpentovirus infection is persistent, and viral clearance was not observed. In this collection, infection was associated with significantly increased rates of mortality (p-value = 0.001) with death of 75% of infected pythons and no uninfected pythons over this period. Offspring of infected parents were followed: vertical transmission either does not occur or occurs with a much lower efficiency than horizontal transmission. Overall, these findings confirm that serpentoviruses pose a significant threat to the health of captive python populations and can cause infection in boa and colubrid species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura L. Hoon-Hanks
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Pathology, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, United States
| | - Robert J. Ossiboff
- Department of Comparative Diagnostic and Population Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - Pia Bartolini
- Terrestrial & Arboreal, LLC, Melrose, FL, United States
| | | | - Sean M. Perry
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA, United States
| | - Anke C. Stöhr
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA, United States
| | - Shaun T. Cross
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Pathology, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, United States
| | - James F. X. Wellehan
- Department of Comparative Diagnostic and Population Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - Elliott R. Jacobson
- Department of Comparative Diagnostic and Population Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - Edward J. Dubovi
- Animal Health Diagnostic Center, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, United States
| | - Mark D. Stenglein
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Pathology, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, United States
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35
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Ossiboff RJ, Towe AE, Brown MA, Longo AV, Lips KR, Miller DL, Carter ED, Gray MJ, Frasca S. Differentiating Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis and B. salamandrivorans in Amphibian Chytridiomycosis Using RNAScope ® in situ Hybridization. Front Vet Sci 2019; 6:304. [PMID: 31572738 PMCID: PMC6751264 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2019.00304] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2019] [Accepted: 08/28/2019] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis and B. salamandrivorans are important amphibian pathogens responsible for morbidity and mortality in free-ranging and captive frogs, salamanders, and caecilians. While B. dendrobatidis has a widespread global distribution, B. salamandrivorans has only been detected in amphibians in Asia and Europe. Although molecular detection methods for these fungi are well-characterized, differentiation of the morphologically similar organisms in the tissues of affected amphibians is incredibly difficult. Moreover, an accurate tool to identify and differentiate Batrachochytrium in affected amphibian tissues is essential for a specific diagnosis of the causative agent in chytridiomycosis cases. To address this need, an automated dual-plex chromogenic RNAScope®in situ hybridization (ISH) assay was developed and characterized for simultaneous detection and differentiation of B. dendrobatidis and B. salamandrivorans. The assay, utilizing double Z target probe pairs designed to hybridize to 28S rRNA sequences, was specific for the identification of both organisms in culture and in formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded amphibian tissues. The assay successfully identified organisms in tissue samples from five salamander and one frog species preserved in formalin for up to 364 days and was sensitive for the detection of Batrachochytrium in animals with qPCR loads as low as 1.1 × 102 zoospores/microliter. ISH staining of B. salamandrivorans also highlighted the infection of dermal cutaneous glands, a feature not observed in amphibian B. dendrobatidis cases and which may play an important role in B. salamandrivorans pathogenesis in salamanders. The developed ISH assay will benefit both amphibian chytridiomycosis surveillance projects and pathogenesis studies by providing a reliable tool for Batrachochytrium differentiation in tissues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert J Ossiboff
- Department of Comparative, Diagnostic, and Population Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - Anastasia E Towe
- Department of Biomedical and Diagnostic Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Knoxville, TN, United States
| | - Melissa A Brown
- Department of Comparative, Diagnostic, and Population Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - Ana V Longo
- Department of Biology, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States.,Department of Biology, University of Maryland College Park, College Park, MD, United States
| | - Karen R Lips
- Department of Biology, University of Maryland College Park, College Park, MD, United States
| | - Debra L Miller
- Department of Biomedical and Diagnostic Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Knoxville, TN, United States.,Center for Wildlife Health, University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture, Knoxville, TN, United States
| | - E Davis Carter
- Center for Wildlife Health, University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture, Knoxville, TN, United States
| | - Matthew J Gray
- Center for Wildlife Health, University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture, Knoxville, TN, United States
| | - Salvatore Frasca
- Department of Comparative, Diagnostic, and Population Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
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36
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Lovstad JN, Ossiboff RJ, Kinsel MJ, Gamble KC. Novel Herpesvirus Associated With Oropharyngeal Squamous Cell Carcinoma in Smooth Green Snakes ( Opheodrys vernalis). Vet Pathol 2019; 56:630-635. [PMID: 30983531 DOI: 10.1177/0300985819837722] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
During a 19-month period, 5 smooth green snakes (Opheodrys vernalis) maintained as an ex situ conservation colony presented with rapid clinical progression of locally invasive oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma. All 5 originated from the same wild source and were housed together or in close proximity. An infectious cause was considered likely, and nested conventional polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and in situ hybridization confirmed the presence of a novel alphaherpesvirus, Opheodrys herpesvirus 1, in the neoplastic tissue in 4 of the 5 snakes. Retrospective screening of previously submitted smooth green snakes by in situ hybridization did not detect virus in prior submissions from the colony. This report documents molecular characterization of an ophidian herpesvirus as well as colocalization of its viral nucleic acid with neoplastic transformation in snakes.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Robert J Ossiboff
- 2 Zoological Pathology Program, University of Illinois, Brookfield, IL, USA.,3 Aquatic, Amphibian, and Reptile Pathology Program, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Michael J Kinsel
- 2 Zoological Pathology Program, University of Illinois, Brookfield, IL, USA
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37
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Karwacki EE, Atkinson MS, Ossiboff RJ, Savage AE. Novel quantitative PCR assay specific for the emerging Perkinsea amphibian pathogen reveals seasonal infection dynamics. Dis Aquat Organ 2018; 129:85-98. [PMID: 29972369 DOI: 10.3354/dao03239] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Amphibians are suffering from large-scale population declines worldwide, and infectious diseases are a central driving force. Most pathogen-mediated declines are attributed to 2 pathogens, the fungus Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis and iridoviruses in the genus Ranavirus. However, another emerging pathogen within Perkinsea is associated with mass mortality events in anurans throughout the southeastern USA. Molecular resources for detecting amphibian Perkinsea have been limited to general protistan primers that amplify a range of organisms, not all of which are disease agents. Moreover, the only quantitative method available involves histopathology, which is labor intensive, requires destructive sampling, and lacks sensitivity. Here, we developed a novel quantitative (q)PCR assay that is sensitive and specific for amphibian Perkinsea, providing a resource for rapid and reliable pathogen diagnosis. We used histopathology to confirm that qPCR burdens track the severity of Perkinsea infections across multiple anuran tissues. We also sampled 3 natural amphibian communities in Florida, USA, to assess the prevalence and intensity of amphibian Perkinsea infections across species, seasons, tissues, and life stages. Anurans from 2 of 3 sampling locations were infected, totaling 25.1% of all individuals. Infection prevalence varied significantly among locations, seasons, species, and life stages. Infection intensity was significantly higher in larval tissues than adult tissues, and was significantly different across locations, seasons, and species. Understanding relationships between amphibian Perkinsea infection, other pathogens, and biotic and abiotic cofactors will allow us to assess what drives population declines, improving our ability to develop conservation strategies for susceptible species to reduce global amphibian biodiversity loss.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily E Karwacki
- University of Central Florida, Department of Biology, 4110 Libra Dr., Orlando, Florida 32816, USA
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38
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Wasik BR, Barnard KN, Ossiboff RJ, Khedri Z, Feng KH, Yu H, Chen X, Perez DR, Varki A, Parrish CR. Distribution of O-Acetylated Sialic Acids among Target Host Tissues for Influenza Virus. mSphere 2017; 2:e00379-16. [PMID: 28904995 PMCID: PMC5588038 DOI: 10.1128/msphere.00379-16] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2016] [Accepted: 08/17/2017] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Sialic acids (Sias) are important glycans displayed on the cells and tissues of many different animals and are frequent targets for binding and modification by pathogens, including influenza viruses. Influenza virus hemagglutinins bind Sias during the infection of their normal hosts, while the encoded neuraminidases and/or esterases remove or modify the Sia to allow virion release or to prevent rebinding. Sias naturally occur in a variety of modified forms, and modified Sias can alter influenza virus host tropisms through their altered interactions with the viral glycoproteins. However, the distribution of modified Sia forms and their effects on pathogen-host interactions are still poorly understood. Here we used probes developed from viral Sia-binding proteins to detect O-acetylated (4-O-acetyl, 9-O-acetyl, and 7,9-O-acetyl) Sias displayed on the tissues of some natural or experimental hosts for influenza viruses. These modified Sias showed highly variable displays between the hosts and tissues examined. The 9-O-acetyl (and 7,9-) modified Sia forms were found on cells and tissues of many hosts, including mice, humans, ferrets, guinea pigs, pigs, horses, dogs, as well as in those of ducks and embryonated chicken egg tissues and membranes, although in variable amounts. The 4-O-acetyl Sias were found in the respiratory tissues of fewer animals, being primarily displayed in the horse and guinea pig, but were not detected in humans or pigs. The results suggest that these Sia variants may influence virus tropisms by altering and selecting their cell interactions. IMPORTANCE Sialic acids (Sias) are key glycans that control or modulate many normal cell and tissue functions while also interacting with a variety of pathogens, including many different viruses. Sias are naturally displayed in a variety of different forms, with modifications at several positions that can alter their functional interactions with pathogens. In addition, Sias are often modified or removed by enzymes such as host or pathogen esterases or sialidases (neuraminidases), and Sia modifications can alter those enzymatic activities to impact pathogen infections. Sia chemical diversity in different hosts and tissues likely alters the pathogen-host interactions and influences the outcome of infection. Here we explored the display of 4-O-acetyl, 9-O-acetyl, and 7,9-O-acetyl modified Sia forms in some target tissues for influenza virus infection in mice, humans, birds, guinea pigs, ferrets, swine, horses, and dogs, which encompass many natural and laboratory hosts of those viruses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brian R. Wasik
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Baker Institute for Animal Health, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York, USA
| | - Karen N. Barnard
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Baker Institute for Animal Health, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York, USA
| | - Robert J. Ossiboff
- Department of Population Medicine and Diagnostic Sciences, Animal Health Diagnostic Center, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York, USA
| | - Zahra Khedri
- Glycobiology Research and Training Center, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Kurtis H. Feng
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Baker Institute for Animal Health, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York, USA
| | - Hai Yu
- Department of Chemistry, University of California, Davis, Davis, California, USA
| | - Xi Chen
- Department of Chemistry, University of California, Davis, Davis, California, USA
| | - Daniel R. Perez
- Department of Population Health, Poultry Diagnostic and Research Center, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia, USA
| | - Ajit Varki
- Glycobiology Research and Training Center, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Colin R. Parrish
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Baker Institute for Animal Health, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York, USA
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Hattenrath-Lehmann TK, Ossiboff RJ, Burnell CA, Rauschenberg CD, Hynes K, Burke RL, Bunting EM, Durham K, Gobler CJ. The role of a PSP-producing Alexandrium bloom in an unprecedented diamondback terrapin (Malaclemys terrapin) mortality event in Flanders Bay, New York, USA. Toxicon 2017; 129:36-43. [PMID: 28209476 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2017.02.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2016] [Revised: 02/03/2017] [Accepted: 02/11/2017] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Diamondback terrapins (Malaclemys terrapin) are a threatened or endangered species in much of their range along the U.S. Atlantic and Gulf coasts. Over an approximately three-week period from late April to mid-May 2015, hundreds of adult diamondback terrapins were found dead on the shores of Flanders Bay, Long Island, New York, USA. Concurrent with the mortality event, elevated densities of the paralytic shellfish toxin (PST)-producing dinoflagellate, Alexandrium fundyense (>104 cells L-1) and high levels of PST in bivalves (maximal levels = 540 μg STX eq. 100 g-1 shellfish tissue) were observed in the Flanders Bay region, resulting in shellfish bed closures in regional tributaries. Gross and histologic postmortem examinations of terrapins revealed no physical trauma to individuals or a common, underlying disease process to explain the deaths. PST compounds (0.2-12.5 μg STX eq. 100 g-1) were present in various M. terrapin tissues collected over the duration of the mortality event. High-throughput sequencing revealed that the ribbed mussel (Geukensia demissa, a PST vector) was present in the gastrointestinal tracks of all terrapin samples tested. While the potential of PST to cause mortality in chelonians has not been well-characterized, in the absence of other significant findings from necropsies and pathological analyses, we provide evidence that PST in shellfish was likely high enough to cause or contribute to the mortality in these small (<2.0 kg) animals.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Robert J Ossiboff
- Cornell University, College of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Population Medicine and Diagnostic Sciences, Ithaca, NY, 14853, USA
| | - Craig A Burnell
- Bigelow Analytical Services, Bigelow Laboratory for Ocean Sciences, East Boothbay, ME, 04544, USA
| | - Carlton D Rauschenberg
- Bigelow Analytical Services, Bigelow Laboratory for Ocean Sciences, East Boothbay, ME, 04544, USA
| | - Kevin Hynes
- New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, Wildlife Health Unit, Delmar, NY, 12054, USA
| | - Russell L Burke
- Hofstra University, Department of Biology, Hempstead, NY, 11549, USA
| | - Elizabeth M Bunting
- Cornell University, College of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Population Medicine and Diagnostic Sciences, Ithaca, NY, 14853, USA
| | - Kim Durham
- Riverhead Foundation for Marine Research and Preservation, Riverhead, NY, 11901, USA
| | - Christopher J Gobler
- Stony Brook University, School of Marine and Atmospheric Sciences, Southampton, NY, 11968, USA.
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40
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Ossiboff RJ, Coffee LL, de Matos R. Pathology in Practice. J Am Vet Med Assoc 2016; 248:501-3. [PMID: 26885592 DOI: 10.2460/javma.248.5.501] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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41
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Kaye SW, Daverio H, Eddy R, Ossiboff RJ, Peters-Kennedy J, Morrisey JK. Surgical Resection of an Interrenal Cell Adenocarcinoma in a Woma Python (Aspidites ramsayi) with 18 Month Follow-up. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2016. [DOI: 10.5818/1529-9651-26.1-2.26] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Sarrah W. Kaye
- 1. Department of Clinical Sciences, Cornell University, College of Veterinary Medicine, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA
| | - Heather Daverio
- 2. Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cornell University, College of Veterinary Medicine, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA
| | - Rebecca Eddy
- 1. Department of Clinical Sciences, Cornell University, College of Veterinary Medicine, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA
| | - Robert J. Ossiboff
- 3. Department of Population Medicine and Diagnostic Sciences, Cornell University, College of Veterinary Medicine, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA
| | - Jeanine Peters-Kennedy
- 2. Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cornell University, College of Veterinary Medicine, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA
| | - James K. Morrisey
- 1. Department of Clinical Sciences, Cornell University, College of Veterinary Medicine, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA
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Affiliation(s)
- Samantha J. Sander
- 1. Wildlife Health Sciences, Smithsonian's National Zoological Park, Washington, DC 20008, USA
| | - Robert J. Ossiboff
- 2. College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14850, USA
| | - Tracy Stokol
- 2. College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14850, USA
| | - James C. Steeil
- 1. Wildlife Health Sciences, Smithsonian's National Zoological Park, Washington, DC 20008, USA
| | - Donald L. Neiffer
- 1. Wildlife Health Sciences, Smithsonian's National Zoological Park, Washington, DC 20008, USA
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43
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Ossiboff RJ, Newton AL, Seimon TA, Moore RP, McAloose D. Emydid herpesvirus 1 infection in northern map turtles (Graptemys geographica) and painted turtles (Chrysemys picta). J Vet Diagn Invest 2015; 27:392-5. [PMID: 25943128 DOI: 10.1177/1040638715584793] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
A captive, juvenile, female northern map turtle (Graptemys geographica) was found dead following a brief period of weakness and nasal discharge. Postmortem examination identified pneumonia with necrosis and numerous epithelial, intranuclear viral inclusion bodies, consistent with herpesviral pneumonia. Similar intranuclear inclusions were also associated with foci of hepatocellular and splenic necrosis. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) screening of fresh, frozen liver for the herpesviral DNA-dependent DNA polymerase gene yielded an amplicon with 99.2% similarity to recently described emydid herpesvirus 1 (EmyHV-1). Molecular screening of turtles housed in enclosures that shared a common circulation system with the affected map turtle identified 4 asymptomatic, EmyHV-1 PCR-positive painted turtles (Chrysemys picta) and 1 asymptomatic northern map turtle. Herpesvirus transmission between painted and map turtles has been previously suggested, and our report provides the molecular characterization of a herpesvirus in asymptomatic painted turtles that can cause fatal herpesvirus-associated disease in northern map turtles.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Alisa L Newton
- Wildlife Conservation Society, Zoological Health Program, Bronx, NY
| | - Tracie A Seimon
- Wildlife Conservation Society, Zoological Health Program, Bronx, NY
| | - Robert P Moore
- Wildlife Conservation Society, Zoological Health Program, Bronx, NY
| | - Denise McAloose
- Wildlife Conservation Society, Zoological Health Program, Bronx, NY
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44
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Ossiboff RJ, Raphael BL, Ammazzalorso AD, Seimon TA, Newton AL, Chang TY, Zarate B, Whitlock AL, McAloose D. Three novel herpesviruses of endangered Clemmys and Glyptemys turtles. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0122901. [PMID: 25875510 PMCID: PMC4398433 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0122901] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2014] [Accepted: 02/24/2015] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The rich diversity of the world’s reptiles is at risk due to significant population declines of broad taxonomic and geographic scope. Significant factors attributed to these declines include habitat loss, pollution, unsustainable collection and infectious disease. To investigate the presence and significance of a potential pathogen on populations of critically endangered bog turtles (Glyptemys muhlenbergii) as well sympatric endangered wood (G. insculpta) and endangered spotted (Clemmys guttata) turtles in the northeastern United States, choanal and cloacal swabs collected from 230 turtles from 19 sites in 5 states were screened for herpesvirus by polymerase chain reaction. We found a high incidence of herpesvirus infection in bog turtles (51.5%; 105/204) and smaller numbers of positive wood (5) and spotted (1) turtles. Sequence and phylogenetic analysis revealed three previously uncharacterized alphaherpesviruses. Glyptemys herpesvirus 1 was the predominant herpesvirus detected and was found exclusively in bog turtles in all states sampled. Glyptemys herpesvirus 2 was found only in wood turtles. Emydid herpesvirus 2 was found in a small number of bog turtles and a single spotted turtle from one state. Based on these findings, Glyptemys herpesvirus 1 appears to be a common infection in the study population, whereas Glyptemys herpesvirus 2 and Emydid herpesvirus 2 were not as frequently detected. Emydid herpesvirus 2 was the only virus detected in more than one species. Herpesviruses are most often associated with subclinical or mild infections in their natural hosts, and no sampled turtles showed overt signs of disease at sampling. However, infection of host-adapted viruses in closely related species can result in significant disease. The pathogenic potential of these viruses, particularly Emydid herpesvirus 2, in sympatric chelonians warrants additional study in order to better understand the relationship of these viruses with their endangered hosts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert J. Ossiboff
- Wildlife Conservation Society, Zoological Health Program, Bronx, New York, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| | - Bonnie L. Raphael
- Wildlife Conservation Society, Zoological Health Program, Bronx, New York, United States of America
| | - Alyssa D. Ammazzalorso
- Wildlife Conservation Society, Zoological Health Program, Bronx, New York, United States of America
- Fordham University, Bronx, New York, United States of America
| | - Tracie A. Seimon
- Wildlife Conservation Society, Zoological Health Program, Bronx, New York, United States of America
| | - Alisa L. Newton
- Wildlife Conservation Society, Zoological Health Program, Bronx, New York, United States of America
| | - Tylis Y. Chang
- Albert Einstein College of Medicine of Yeshiva University, Bronx, New York, United States of America
| | - Brian Zarate
- New Jersey Division of Fish and Wildlife, Endangered and Nongame Species Program, Clinton, New Jersey, United States of America
| | - Alison L. Whitlock
- U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Hadley, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Denise McAloose
- Wildlife Conservation Society, Zoological Health Program, Bronx, New York, United States of America
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45
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Rettenmund CL, Ossiboff RJ, McAloose D, Knee W, Wade SE, Paré JA. Microlichus americanus acariasis in saffron finches (Sicalis flaveola) with dermatitis and feather loss. J Vet Diagn Invest 2015; 27:382-6. [PMID: 25862713 DOI: 10.1177/1040638715581677] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Over a 5-year period, 13 saffron finches (Sicalis flaveola) housed in mixed aviaries at the Bronx Zoo (Bronx, New York) were examined with feather loss and dermatitis, primarily affecting the nape, neck, and dorsum. Feather loss, hyperkeratosis, epidermal hyperplasia, and mixed granulocytic and mononuclear inflammation were identified in biopsies from live birds and tissue sections from postmortem specimens. In 10 of 13 cases, sections of arthropod parasites were seen histologically within feather follicles and along the surface of affected skin. Based on morphological characteristics, mites recovered from samples of formalin-fixed skin in 4 birds were identified as Microlichus americanus, an epidermoptid mite infrequently reported from wild birds and hippoboscid flies. Gross and histological lesions strongly implicate M. americanus as the cause of dermatitis affecting practically all saffron finches in the collection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christy L Rettenmund
- Wildlife Conservation Society, Zoological Health Program, Bronx, NY (Rettenmund, Ossiboff, McAloose, Paré)Canadian National Collection of Insects, Arachnids and Nematodes; Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada (Knee)Department of Population Medicine and Diagnostic Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY (Wade)
| | - Robert J Ossiboff
- Wildlife Conservation Society, Zoological Health Program, Bronx, NY (Rettenmund, Ossiboff, McAloose, Paré)Canadian National Collection of Insects, Arachnids and Nematodes; Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada (Knee)Department of Population Medicine and Diagnostic Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY (Wade)
| | - Denise McAloose
- Wildlife Conservation Society, Zoological Health Program, Bronx, NY (Rettenmund, Ossiboff, McAloose, Paré)Canadian National Collection of Insects, Arachnids and Nematodes; Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada (Knee)Department of Population Medicine and Diagnostic Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY (Wade)
| | - Wayne Knee
- Wildlife Conservation Society, Zoological Health Program, Bronx, NY (Rettenmund, Ossiboff, McAloose, Paré)Canadian National Collection of Insects, Arachnids and Nematodes; Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada (Knee)Department of Population Medicine and Diagnostic Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY (Wade)
| | - Susan E Wade
- Wildlife Conservation Society, Zoological Health Program, Bronx, NY (Rettenmund, Ossiboff, McAloose, Paré)Canadian National Collection of Insects, Arachnids and Nematodes; Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada (Knee)Department of Population Medicine and Diagnostic Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY (Wade)
| | - Jean A Paré
- Wildlife Conservation Society, Zoological Health Program, Bronx, NY (Rettenmund, Ossiboff, McAloose, Paré)Canadian National Collection of Insects, Arachnids and Nematodes; Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada (Knee)Department of Population Medicine and Diagnostic Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY (Wade)
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46
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Kaye SW, Ossiboff RJ, Noonan B, Stokol T, Buckles E, Seimon TA, Morrisey J, de Matos R. Biliary Coccidiosis Associated With Immunosuppressive Treatment of Pure Red Cell Aplasia in an Adult Ferret (Mustela putorius furo). J Exot Pet Med 2015. [DOI: 10.1053/j.jepm.2015.04.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
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47
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Ossiboff RJ, Clancy MM, Terio KA, Conley KJ, McAloose D. Cerebral and Ocular Ochroconiasis in 2 Elegant Crested Tinamou (Eudromia elegans) Chicks. Vet Pathol 2014; 52:716-9. [PMID: 25341678 DOI: 10.1177/0300985814556186] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Two elegant crested tinamou chicks (Eudromia elegans), aged 27 and 50 days, respectively, died following acute onset of weakness and neurologic disease. Microscopically, the cerebral hemispheres of both chicks and the optic lobes of 1 chick contained multifocal granulomatous and heterophilic inflammation and necrosis with intralesional pigmented, thin-walled, fungal hyphae. In 1 chick, hyphae extended along the optic nerve into the globe and were associated with severe granulomatous and heterophilic inflammation of the choroid, retina, pecten, and vitreous. In both chicks, polymerase chain reaction amplification of the fungal 28S large subunit ribosomal RNA was positive with 99% sequence identity to Ochroconis gallopava. While a well-characterized fungal infection of domestic poultry, ochroconiasis has rarely been reported in exotic avian species, and this is the first histologic characterization of ocular ochroconiasis in any avian species.
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Affiliation(s)
- R J Ossiboff
- Wildlife Conservation Society, Zoological Health Program, Bronx, NY, USA
| | - M M Clancy
- Wildlife Conservation Society, Zoological Health Program, Bronx, NY, USA
| | - K A Terio
- Zoological Pathology Program, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois, Maywood, IL, USA
| | - K J Conley
- Wildlife Conservation Society, Zoological Health Program, Bronx, NY, USA
| | - D McAloose
- Wildlife Conservation Society, Zoological Health Program, Bronx, NY, USA
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48
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Uccellini L, Ossiboff RJ, de Matos REC, Morrisey JK, Petrosov A, Navarrete-Macias I, Jain K, Hicks AL, Buckles EL, Tokarz R, McAloose D, Lipkin WI. Identification of a novel nidovirus in an outbreak of fatal respiratory disease in ball pythons (Python regius). Virol J 2014; 11:144. [PMID: 25106433 PMCID: PMC4254391 DOI: 10.1186/1743-422x-11-144] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2014] [Accepted: 08/08/2014] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Respiratory infections are important causes of morbidity and mortality in reptiles; however, the causative agents are only infrequently identified. Findings Pneumonia, tracheitis and esophagitis were reported in a collection of ball pythons (Python regius). Eight of 12 snakes had evidence of bacterial pneumonia. High-throughput sequencing of total extracted nucleic acids from lung, esophagus and spleen revealed a novel nidovirus. PCR indicated the presence of viral RNA in lung, trachea, esophagus, liver, and spleen. In situ hybridization confirmed the presence of intracellular, intracytoplasmic viral nucleic acids in the lungs of infected snakes. Phylogenetic analysis based on a 1,136 amino acid segment of the polyprotein suggests that this virus may represent a new species in the subfamily Torovirinae. Conclusions This report of a novel nidovirus in ball pythons may provide insight into the pathogenesis of respiratory disease in this species and enhances our knowledge of the diversity of nidoviruses.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Walter Ian Lipkin
- Center for Infection and Immunity, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, USA.
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49
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Ossiboff RJ, Parker JSL. Identification of regions and residues in feline junctional adhesion molecule required for feline calicivirus binding and infection. J Virol 2007; 81:13608-21. [PMID: 17913818 PMCID: PMC2168846 DOI: 10.1128/jvi.01509-07] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The feline junctional adhesion molecule A (fJAM-A) is a functional receptor for feline calicivirus (FCV). fJAM-A is a member of the immunoglobulin superfamily (IgSF) and consists of two Ig-like extracellular domains (D1 and D2), a membrane-spanning domain, and a short cytoplasmic tail. To identify regions of fJAM-A that interact with FCV, we purified recombinant fJAM-A ectodomain and D1 and D2 domains. We found that preincubation of FCV with the ectodomain or D1 was sufficient to inhibit FCV infection in plaque reduction assays. In enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays, FCV binding to fJAM-A ectodomain was concentration dependent and saturable; however, FCV bound D1 alone weakly and was unable to bind D2. To characterize FCV binding to surface-expressed fJAM-A, we transfected truncated and chimeric forms of fJAM-A into a nonpermissive cell line and assayed binding by flow cytometry. Only D1 was necessary for FCV binding to cells; all other domains could be replaced. Using a structure-guided mutational approach, we identified three mutants of fJAM-A within D1 (D42N, K43N, and S97A) that exhibited significantly decreased capacities to bind FCV. In contrast to our finding that D1 mediated FCV binding, we found that all domains of fJAM-A were necessary to confer susceptibility to FCV infection. Furthermore, surface expression of fJAM-A was not sufficient to permit FCV infection by all of the isolates we investigated. This indicates that (i) other cellular factors are required to permit productive FCV infection and (ii) individual FCV isolates differ in the factors they require.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert J Ossiboff
- Baker Institute for Animal Health, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Hungerford Hill Road, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA
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50
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Ossiboff RJ, Sheh A, Shotton J, Pesavento PA, Parker JSL. Feline caliciviruses (FCVs) isolated from cats with virulent systemic disease possess in vitro phenotypes distinct from those of other FCV isolates. J Gen Virol 2007; 88:506-517. [PMID: 17251569 DOI: 10.1099/vir.0.82488-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
During the past decade, several outbreaks of severe systemic disease associated with Feline calicivirus (FCV) have occurred in the USA and the UK. This new disease has caused high mortality in the affected animals and has been termed virulent systemic (VS)-FCV disease. Currently, there are no genetic or in vitro diagnostic methods to distinguish viruses isolated from cases of VS-FCV disease from other isolates. Here, five in vitro properties, as well as the capsid and proteinase-polymerase (pro-pol) sequences, of a set of FCV isolates that included seven isolates from five distinct VS-FCV outbreaks ('VS isolates') were investigated. Although all of the FCV isolates investigated had similar kinetics of growth under single-cycle conditions, VS isolates infected tissue-culture cells more efficiently under multiple-cycle growth conditions. Moreover, it was found that cells infected with VS isolates showed cytopathic effects earlier than cells infected with non-VS isolates, although no difference in relative ATP levels were noted at times when morphological changes were first seen. Both VS- and other (non-VS) isolates of FCV demonstrated similar temperature stabilities. Phylogenetic analyses and alignments of the capsid and pro-pol regions of the genome did not reveal any conserved changes that correlated with virulence, and the VS isolates did not segregate into a unique clade. These results suggest that VS isolates have arisen independently several times since first being described and can spread more efficiently in tissue culture than other isolates when infected at low multiplicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert J Ossiboff
- Baker Institute for Animal Health, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA
| | - Alexander Sheh
- Baker Institute for Animal Health, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA
| | - Justine Shotton
- Baker Institute for Animal Health, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA
| | - Patricia A Pesavento
- Department of Pathology, Microbiology and Immunology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, CA 95616, USA
| | - John S L Parker
- Baker Institute for Animal Health, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA
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