1
|
Piloto‐Sardiñas E, Abuin‐Denis L, Maitre A, Foucault‐Simonin A, Corona‐González B, Díaz‐Corona C, Roblejo‐Arias L, Mateos‐Hernández L, Marrero‐Perera R, Obregon D, Svobodová K, Wu‐Chuang A, Cabezas‐Cruz A. Dynamic nesting of Anaplasma marginale in the microbial communities of Rhipicephalus microplus. Ecol Evol 2024; 14:e11228. [PMID: 38571811 PMCID: PMC10985379 DOI: 10.1002/ece3.11228] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2024] [Revised: 03/15/2024] [Accepted: 03/20/2024] [Indexed: 04/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Interactions within the tick microbiome involving symbionts, commensals, and tick-borne pathogens (TBPs) play a pivotal role in disease ecology. This study explored temporal changes in the microbiome of Rhipicephalus microplus, an important cattle tick vector, focusing on its interaction with Anaplasma marginale. To overcome limitations inherent in sampling methods relying on questing ticks, which may not consistently reflect pathogen presence due to variations in exposure to infected hosts in nature, our study focused on ticks fed on chronically infected cattle. This approach ensures continuous pathogen exposure, providing a more comprehensive understanding of the nesting patterns of A. marginale in the R. microplus microbiome. Using next-generation sequencing, microbiome dynamics were characterized over 2 years, revealing significant shifts in diversity, composition, and abundance. Anaplasma marginale exhibited varying associations, with its increased abundance correlating with reduced microbial diversity. Co-occurrence networks demonstrated Anaplasma's evolving role, transitioning from diverse connections to keystone taxa status. An integrative approach involving in silico node removal unveils the impact of Anaplasma on network stability, highlighting its role in conferring robustness to the microbial community. This study provides insights into the intricate interplay between the tick microbiome and A. marginale, shedding light on potential avenues for controlling bovine anaplasmosis through microbiome manipulation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elianne Piloto‐Sardiñas
- ANSES, INRAE, Ecole Nationale Vétérinaire d'Alfort, UMR BIPAR, Laboratoire de Santé AnimaleMaisons‐AlfortFrance
- Direction of Animal Health, National Center for Animal and Plant HealthCarretera de Tapaste y Autopista NacionalSan José de las LajasCuba
| | - Lianet Abuin‐Denis
- ANSES, INRAE, Ecole Nationale Vétérinaire d'Alfort, UMR BIPAR, Laboratoire de Santé AnimaleMaisons‐AlfortFrance
- Animal Biotechnology DepartmentCenter for Genetic Engineering and BiotechnologyHavanaCuba
| | - Apolline Maitre
- ANSES, INRAE, Ecole Nationale Vétérinaire d'Alfort, UMR BIPAR, Laboratoire de Santé AnimaleMaisons‐AlfortFrance
- INRAE, UR 0045 Laboratoire de Recherches Sur Le Développement de L'Elevage (SELMET‐LRDE)CorteFrance
- EA 7310, Laboratoire de Virologie, Université de CorseCorteFrance
| | - Angélique Foucault‐Simonin
- ANSES, INRAE, Ecole Nationale Vétérinaire d'Alfort, UMR BIPAR, Laboratoire de Santé AnimaleMaisons‐AlfortFrance
| | - Belkis Corona‐González
- Direction of Animal Health, National Center for Animal and Plant HealthCarretera de Tapaste y Autopista NacionalSan José de las LajasCuba
| | - Cristian Díaz‐Corona
- Direction of Animal Health, National Center for Animal and Plant HealthCarretera de Tapaste y Autopista NacionalSan José de las LajasCuba
| | - Lisset Roblejo‐Arias
- Direction of Animal Health, National Center for Animal and Plant HealthCarretera de Tapaste y Autopista NacionalSan José de las LajasCuba
| | - Lourdes Mateos‐Hernández
- ANSES, INRAE, Ecole Nationale Vétérinaire d'Alfort, UMR BIPAR, Laboratoire de Santé AnimaleMaisons‐AlfortFrance
| | - Roxana Marrero‐Perera
- Direction of Animal Health, National Center for Animal and Plant HealthCarretera de Tapaste y Autopista NacionalSan José de las LajasCuba
| | - Dasiel Obregon
- School of Environmental SciencesUniversity of GuelphGuelphOntarioCanada
| | - Karolína Svobodová
- Faculty of ScienceUniversity of South BohemiaCeske BudejoviceCzech Republic
| | - Alejandra Wu‐Chuang
- ANSES, INRAE, Ecole Nationale Vétérinaire d'Alfort, UMR BIPAR, Laboratoire de Santé AnimaleMaisons‐AlfortFrance
| | - Alejandro Cabezas‐Cruz
- ANSES, INRAE, Ecole Nationale Vétérinaire d'Alfort, UMR BIPAR, Laboratoire de Santé AnimaleMaisons‐AlfortFrance
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Baz-Flores S, Jiménez-Martín D, Peralbo-Moreno A, Herraiz C, Cano-Terriza D, Cuadrado-Matías R, García-Bocanegra I, Ruiz-Fons F. Animal Exposure Model for Mapping Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic Fever Virus Emergence Risk. Emerg Infect Dis 2024; 30:672-680. [PMID: 38526057 PMCID: PMC10977842 DOI: 10.3201/eid3004.221604] [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: 03/26/2024] Open
Abstract
To estimate the determinants of spatial variation in Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever virus (CCHFV) transmission and to create a risk map as a preventive public health tool, we designed a survey of small domestic ruminants in Andalusia, Spain. To assess CCHFV exposure spatial distribution, we analyzed serum from 2,440 sheep and goats by using a double-antigen ELISA and modeled exposure probability with environmental predictors by using generalized linear mixed models. CCHFV antibodies detected in 84 samples confirmed low CCHFV prevalence in small domestic ruminants in the region. The best-fitted statistical model indicated that the most significant predictors of virus exposure risk were cattle/horse density and the normalized difference vegetation index. Model validation showed 99.7% specificity and 10.2% sensitivity for identifying CCHFV circulation areas. To map CCHFV exposure risk, we projected the model at a 1 × 1-km spatial resolution. Our study provides insight into CCHFV ecology that is useful for preventing virus transmission.
Collapse
|
3
|
Singh N, Rolandelli A, O’Neal AJ, Butler LR, Samaddar S, Laukaitis-Yousey HJ, Butnaru M, Mohr SE, Perrimon N, Pedra JHF. Genetic manipulation of an Ixodes scapularis cell line. mBio 2024; 15:e0247923. [PMID: 38380961 PMCID: PMC10936194 DOI: 10.1128/mbio.02479-23] [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: 09/11/2023] [Accepted: 02/08/2024] [Indexed: 02/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Although genetic manipulation is one of the hallmarks of model organisms, its applicability to non-model species has remained difficult due to our limited understanding of their fundamental biology. For instance, manipulation of a cell line originated from the black-legged tick Ixodes scapularis, an arthropod that serves as a vector for several human pathogens, has yet to be established. Here, we demonstrate the successful genetic modification of the commonly used tick ISE6 line through ectopic expression and clustered regularly interspaced palindromic repeats [(CRISPR)/CRISPR-associated protein 9 (Cas9)] genome editing. We performed ectopic expression using nucleofection and attained CRISPR-Cas9 editing via homology-dependent recombination. Targeting the E3 ubiquitin ligase x-linked inhibitor of apoptosis (xiap) and its substrate p47 led to an alteration in molecular signaling within the immune deficiency network and increased infection of the rickettsial agent Anaplasma phagocytophilum in I. scapularis ISE6 cells. Collectively, our findings complement techniques for the genetic engineering of I. scapularis ticks, which currently limit efficient and scalable molecular genetic screens in vivo.IMPORTANCEGenetic engineering in arachnids has lagged compared to insects, largely because of substantial differences in their biology. This study unveils the implementation of ectopic expression and CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing in a tick cell line. We introduced fluorescently tagged proteins in ISE6 cells and edited its genome via homology-dependent recombination. We ablated the expression of xiap and p47, two signaling molecules present in the immune deficiency (IMD) pathway of Ixodes scapularis. Impairment of the tick IMD pathway, an analogous network of the tumor necrosis factor receptor in mammals, led to enhanced infection of the rickettsial agent Anaplasma phagocytophilum. Altogether, our findings provide a critical technical resource to the scientific community to enable a deeper understanding of biological circuits in the black-legged tick I. scapularis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nisha Singh
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, School of Medicine, University of Maryland, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Agustin Rolandelli
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, School of Medicine, University of Maryland, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Anya J. O’Neal
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, School of Medicine, University of Maryland, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - L. Rainer Butler
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, School of Medicine, University of Maryland, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Sourabh Samaddar
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, School of Medicine, University of Maryland, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Hanna J. Laukaitis-Yousey
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, School of Medicine, University of Maryland, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Matthew Butnaru
- Department of Genetics, Blavatnik Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Chevy Chase, Maryland, USA
| | - Stephanie E. Mohr
- Department of Genetics, Blavatnik Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Norbert Perrimon
- Department of Genetics, Blavatnik Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Chevy Chase, Maryland, USA
| | - Joao H. F. Pedra
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, School of Medicine, University of Maryland, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Rochlin I, Chu D, Gmelin M, Le J, Furie MB, Thanassi DG, Kim HK. Optimization of artificial membrane feeding system for lone star ticks, Amblyomma americanum (Acari: Ixodidae), and experimental infection with Rickettsia amblyommatis (Rickettsiales: Rickettsiaceae). J Med Entomol 2024; 61:442-453. [PMID: 38104248 PMCID: PMC10936164 DOI: 10.1093/jme/tjad158] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2023] [Revised: 11/02/2023] [Accepted: 12/05/2023] [Indexed: 12/19/2023]
Abstract
With the introduction of siliconized artificial membranes, various artificial feeding systems (AFS) for hard ticks (Ixodidae) have been developed over the last decades. Most AFS utilize similar core components but employ diverse approaches, materials, and experimental conditions. Published work describes different combinations of the core components without experimental optimizations for the artificial feeding of different tick species. Amblyomma americanum L., (Acari: Ixodidae) (lone star tick) is a known vector and reservoir for diverse tick-borne pathogens, such as Rickettsia amblyommatis and Ehrlichia chaffeensis. Ongoing environmental changes have supported the expansion of A. americanum into new habitats, contributing to increased tick-borne diseases in endemic areas. However, a significant knowledge gap exists in understanding the underlying mechanisms involved in A. americanum interactions with tick-borne pathogens. Here, we performed a systematic analysis and developed an optimized AFS for nymphal lone star ticks. Our results demonstrate that Goldbeater's membranes, rabbit hair, hair extract, and adult lone star ticks significantly improved the attachment rate of nymphal ticks, whereas tick frass and frass extract did not. With the optimized conditions, we achieved an attachment rate of 46 ± 3% and a success rate of 100% (i.e., one or more attached ticks) in each feeding experiment for nymphal lone star ticks. When fed on sheep blood spiked with R. amblyommatis, both nymphal and adult lone star ticks acquired and maintained R. amblyommatis, demonstrating the feasibility of studying A. americanum-pathogen interactions using AFS. Our study can serve as a roadmap to optimize and improve AFS for other medically relevant tick species.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ilia Rochlin
- Center for Infectious Diseases, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, USA
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, USA
| | - Dennis Chu
- Center for Infectious Diseases, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, USA
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, USA
| | - Matthew Gmelin
- Center for Infectious Diseases, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, USA
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, USA
| | - Justin Le
- Center for Infectious Diseases, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, USA
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, USA
| | - Martha B Furie
- Center for Infectious Diseases, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, USA
- Department of Pathology, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, USA
| | - David G Thanassi
- Center for Infectious Diseases, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, USA
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, USA
| | - Hwan Keun Kim
- Center for Infectious Diseases, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, USA
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, USA
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Rekik S, Hammami I, Timoumi O, Maghzaoua D, Khamassi Khbou M, Schulz A, Groschup MH, Gharbi M. A Review on Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic Fever Infections in Tunisia. Vector Borne Zoonotic Dis 2024. [PMID: 38457645 DOI: 10.1089/vbz.2023.0079] [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: 03/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever (CCHF) is a zoonotic tick-borne disease, caused by an arbovirus of the genus Orthonairovirus and the family Nairoviridae. Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever virus (CCHFV) is widespread in several regions of the world. While the virus is not pathogenic to all susceptible livestock and wild mammals, it can lead to severe hemorrhagic fever in humans. In this review, we compiled published data on CCHFV infections in humans, animals, and ticks in Tunisia. Based on that, we discussed the epidemiology and the distribution patterns of CCHFV infections highlighting the risk factors for this virus in the country. CCHF infection prevalence in humans was estimated to 2.76% (5/181) and 5% (2/38) in Tunisian febrile patients and Tunisian slaughterhouse workers, respectively. Concurrently, seroprevalence in domestic ungulates (sheep, goats, cattle, and dromedaries) ranged from zero to 89.7%, and only one Hyalomma impeltatum tick specimen collected from dromedaries in southern Tunisian was positive for CCHFV by reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (0.6%; 1/165). As Tunisian studies on CCHFV are geographically scattered and limited due to very small sample sizes, further studies are needed to improve the knowledge on the epidemiology of CCHF in Tunisia.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Syrine Rekik
- Laboratory of Parasitology, Zoonoses, and Sanitary Regulation, University of Manouba, Institution of Agricultural Research and Higher Education, National School of Veterinary Medicine of Sidi Thabet, Sidi Thabet, Tunisia
| | - Ines Hammami
- Laboratory of Parasitology, Zoonoses, and Sanitary Regulation, University of Manouba, Institution of Agricultural Research and Higher Education, National School of Veterinary Medicine of Sidi Thabet, Sidi Thabet, Tunisia
| | - Oumayma Timoumi
- Laboratory of Parasitology, Zoonoses, and Sanitary Regulation, University of Manouba, Institution of Agricultural Research and Higher Education, National School of Veterinary Medicine of Sidi Thabet, Sidi Thabet, Tunisia
| | - Dhekra Maghzaoua
- Laboratory of Parasitology, Zoonoses, and Sanitary Regulation, University of Manouba, Institution of Agricultural Research and Higher Education, National School of Veterinary Medicine of Sidi Thabet, Sidi Thabet, Tunisia
| | - Médiha Khamassi Khbou
- Laboratory of Infectious Animal Diseases, Zoonoses, and Sanitary Regulation, University of Manouba, Institution of Agricultural Research and Higher Education, National School of Veterinary Medicine of Sidi Thabet, Sidi Thabet, Tunisia
| | - Ansgar Schulz
- Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Institute of Novel and Emerging Infectious Diseases, Insel Riems, Germany
| | - Martin H Groschup
- Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Institute of Novel and Emerging Infectious Diseases, Insel Riems, Germany
| | - Mohamed Gharbi
- Laboratory of Parasitology, Zoonoses, and Sanitary Regulation, University of Manouba, Institution of Agricultural Research and Higher Education, National School of Veterinary Medicine of Sidi Thabet, Sidi Thabet, Tunisia
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Elati K, Daly N, Dhibi M, Laaribi H, Rekik M, Gharbi M. Repeated Cross-Sectional Survey of Ectoparasites in Sheep from Central Tunisia: Does Low Prevalence Indicate Good Hygiene or Resistance to Ectoparasites? Animals (Basel) 2024; 14:801. [PMID: 38473186 DOI: 10.3390/ani14050801] [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: 01/17/2024] [Revised: 02/26/2024] [Accepted: 03/02/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Sheep ectoparasites such as chewing lice, fleas and ticks are serious constraints to sheep productivity and are the cause of skin lesions in animals that decrease their market value. This study aims at investigating the ectoparasite fauna infesting small ruminants in the district of Sidi Bouzid (central Tunisia). A total of 1243 Barbarine and Queue Fine de l'Ouest (QFO) sheep were examined every two months for one year. Of the total animals examined, 74 were infested by at least 1 parasite group (5.95%). Three ectoparasite groups were identified as Psoroptes ovis (0.48%; 6/1243), ticks (5.3%; n = 66/1243) and one specimen of Ctenocephalides canis (0.08%; n = 1/1243). The most abundant tick among the 358 specimens was Rhipicephalus sanguineus sensu lato (n = 337; 94.1%), followed by Hyalomma impeltatum (n = 7/358; 1.9%), H. dromedarii (n = 7/358; 1.9%), H. excavatum (n = 5/358; 1.4%) and only two specimens of H. scupense (n = 2/358; 0.55%). The sheep herds showed low infestation prevalence by ectoparasite over the year, with a significant difference according to the seasons (p < 0.05). A higher infestation prevalence was recorded in March (14.36%). Barbarine sheep breed showed significantly higher infestation prevalence (16.8%) compared to QFO (0.8%) (p < 0.01). There were no differences in infestation prevalence according to sex of the animal or age groups. Knowledge of the ectoparasite population harboured by sheep, its activity dynamics and risk factors is required to develop effective ectoparasite control options. The low prevalence of ectoparasite infestation in sheep reported here may be due to possible genetic resistance or simply to successful hygiene measures implemented by farmers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Khawla Elati
- Laboratory of Parasitology, Institution of Agricultural Research and Higher Education, National School of Veterinary Medicine of Sidi Thabet, University of Manouba, Sidi Thabet 2020, Tunisia
- Institute for Parasitology and Tropical Veterinary Medicine, Freie Universität Berlin, Robert-von-Ostertag-Str. 7, 14163 Berlin, Germany
- Veterinary Centre for Resistance Research, Freie Universität Berlin, Robert-Von-Ostertag-Str. 8, 14163 Berlin, Germany
| | - Nesrine Daly
- Laboratory of Parasitology, Institution of Agricultural Research and Higher Education, National School of Veterinary Medicine of Sidi Thabet, University of Manouba, Sidi Thabet 2020, Tunisia
| | - Mokhtar Dhibi
- Laboratory of Parasitology, Institution of Agricultural Research and Higher Education, National School of Veterinary Medicine of Sidi Thabet, University of Manouba, Sidi Thabet 2020, Tunisia
| | - Hela Laaribi
- Laboratory of Parasitology, Institution of Agricultural Research and Higher Education, National School of Veterinary Medicine of Sidi Thabet, University of Manouba, Sidi Thabet 2020, Tunisia
| | - Mourad Rekik
- International Center for Agricultural Research in the Dry Areas (ICARDA), P.O. Box 950764, Amman 11195, Jordan
| | - Mohamed Gharbi
- Laboratory of Parasitology, Institution of Agricultural Research and Higher Education, National School of Veterinary Medicine of Sidi Thabet, University of Manouba, Sidi Thabet 2020, Tunisia
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Candasamy S, Ayyanar E, Devaraju P, Kumar A, Zaman K, Bhaskar Mishra B, Srinivasan L, Purushothaman J. Evidence on the prevalence of emerging and re-emerging tick- and flea-borne rickettsial agents in acute encephalitis syndrome endemic areas of northeast Uttar Pradesh, India. Med Vet Entomol 2024; 38:23-37. [PMID: 37736686 DOI: 10.1111/mve.12694] [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] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2023] [Accepted: 08/31/2023] [Indexed: 09/23/2023]
Abstract
Outbreaks of acute encephalitis syndrome (AES) with unknown aetiology are reported every year in Gorakhpur district, Uttar Pradesh, India, and Orientia tsutsugamushi, the rickettsial pathogen, responsible for scrub typhus has been attributed as the primary cause of AES problem. However, information on the prevalence of other rickettsial infections is lacking. Hence, this study was carried out to assess any occurrence of tick- and flea-borne rickettsial agents in villages reporting AES cases in this district. In total, 825 peridomestic small mammals were trapped, by setting 9254 Sherman traps in four villages with a trap success rate of 8.9%. The Asian house shrew, Suncus murinus, constituted the predominant animal species (56.2%) and contributed to the maximum number (87.37%) of ectoparasites. In total, 1552 ectoparasites comprising two species of ticks and one species each of flea and louse were retrieved from the trapped rodents/shrews. Rhipicephalus sanguineus, the brown dog tick, was the predominant species retrieved from the trapped rodents/shrews, and the overall infestation rate was 1.75 per animal. In total, 4428 ectoparasites comprising five tick species, three louse species and one flea species were collected from 1798 domestic animals screened. Rhipicephalus microplus was the predominant tick species collected from the domestic animals. The cat flea, Ctenocephalides felis, constituted 1.5% of the total ectoparasites. Of all the ectoparasite samples (5980) from domestic animals and rodents, tested as 1211 pools through real-time PCR assays, 64 pools were positive for 23S rRNA gene of rickettsial agents. The PCR-positive samples were subjected to multi-locus sequence typing (MLST). In BLAST and phylogenetic analysis, the ectoparasites were found to harbour Rickettsia asembonensis (n = 9), Rickettsia conorii (n = 3), Rickettsia massiliae (n = 29) and Candidatus Rickettsia senegalensis (n = 1). A total of 22 pools were detected to have multiple rickettsial agents. The prevalence of fleas and high abundance of tick vectors with natural infections of rickettsial agents indicates the risk of transmission of tick- and flea-borne rickettsial diseases in rural villages of Gorakhpur. Further epidemiological studies are required to confirm the transmission of these agents to humans.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Elango Ayyanar
- ICMR-Vector Control Research Centre (ICMR-VCRC), Puducherry, India
| | - Panneer Devaraju
- ICMR-Vector Control Research Centre (ICMR-VCRC), Puducherry, India
| | - Ashwani Kumar
- ICMR-Vector Control Research Centre (ICMR-VCRC), Puducherry, India
| | - Kamran Zaman
- ICMR-Regional Medical Research Centre (ICMR-RMRC), Gorakhpur, India
- ICMR-National Institute of Traditional Medicine Belagavi (ICMR-NITM Belagavi), Belagavi, India
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
8
|
Boyce RM, Pretsch P, Tyrlik K, Schulz A, Giandomenico DA, Barbarin AM, Williams C. Delayed Diagnosis of Locally Acquired Lyme Disease, Central North Carolina, USA. Emerg Infect Dis 2024; 30:564-567. [PMID: 38407256 PMCID: PMC10902532 DOI: 10.3201/eid3003.231302] [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: 02/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Healthcare providers in North Carolina, USA, have limited experience diagnosing and managing Lyme disease because few cases occur annually statewide. We outline the prolonged diagnostic course for a patient with locally acquired Lyme disease in North Carolina. This case highlights the need for greater awareness and professional education.
Collapse
|
9
|
Pańczuk A, Tokarska-Rodak M, Andrzejuk P. Prevalence of Borrelia burgdorferi and Anaplasma phagocytophilum in Ixodes ricinus collected from dogs in eastern Poland. J Vet Res 2024; 68:109-114. [PMID: 38525235 PMCID: PMC10960333 DOI: 10.2478/jvetres-2024-0015] [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: 10/13/2023] [Accepted: 03/06/2024] [Indexed: 03/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Ixodes ricinus ticks are an important vector and reservoir of pathogenic microorganisms causing dangerous infectious diseases in humans and animals. The presence of ticks in urban greenery is a particularly important public health concern due to the potential for humans and companion animals to be exposed to tick-borne diseases there. The study assessed the prevalence of Borrelia burgdorferi and Anaplasma phagocytophilum infection in I. ricinus ticks feeding on dogs. Material and Methods The study consisted in analyses of I. ricinus ticks collected in 2018-2020 from owned and stray dogs in the north-eastern part of Lubelskie province (eastern Poland). An AmpliSens PCR kit was used for qualitative detection and differentiation of tick-borne infections. Results Infections of B. burgdorferi and A. phagocytophilum were detected in 10.9% and 12.9% of the examined ticks, respectively. One tick (0.7%) was co-infected by both pathogens. Infection with B. burgdorferi was significantly more highly prevalent in ticks collected from the owned dogs than from the strays (18.7% and 2.8%, respectively), whereas the prevalence of A. phagocytophilum was similar in both groups (12.0% and 13.9%, respectively). Conclusion The co-infection observed in the study suggests the possibility of simultaneous infection by both pathogens from a single tick bite. The presence of pathogens in ticks collected from dogs is a factor in assessing infection risk not only to companion animals but also to their owners, who are in close contact with their dogs and visit the same green areas recreationally.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Patrycja Andrzejuk
- Innovation Research Centre, John Paul II University in Biała Podlaska, 21-500Biała Podlaska, Poland
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Xu X, Gao Z, Wu Y, Yin H, Ren Q, Zhang J, Liu Y, Yang S, Bayasgalan C, Tserendorj A, Yang X, Chen Z. Discovery and vertical transmission analysis of Dabieshan Tick Virus in Haemaphysalis longicornis ticks from Chengde, China. Front Microbiol 2024; 15:1365356. [PMID: 38468853 PMCID: PMC10925692 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2024.1365356] [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] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2024] [Accepted: 02/01/2024] [Indexed: 03/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Ticks are important blood-sucking ectoparasites that can transmit various pathogens, posing significant threats to the wellbeing of humans and livestock. Dabieshan tick virus (DBTV) was initially discovered in 2015 in Haemaphysalis longicornis ticks from the Dabieshan mountain region in Hubei Province, China. In recent years, DBTV has been discovered in various regions of China, including Shandong, Zhejiang, Liaoning, Hubei, Yunnan, and Guizhou Provinces. However, the researches on tick-borne transmission of DBTV are scarce. Methods This study utilized the small RNA sequencing (sRNA-seq) method to identify tick-associated viruses in ticks collected from Chengde in Hebei Province and Yongcheng in Henan Province, leading to the discovery of a new DBTV strain in Hebei. The complete coding genome of DBTV Hebei strain was obtained through RNA-seq and Sanger sequencing. Furthermore, the transmission experiment of DBTV in H. longicornis was examined in laboratory for the first time. Results DBTV was detected in newly molted adult H. longicornis ticks collected in Chengde, Hebei Province. Additionally, DBTV was also detected in both unfed nymphs and engorged females of H. longicornis collected from Chengde, with a positive rate of 20% and 56.25%, respectively. The complete coding genome of DBTV (OP682840 and OP716696) were obtained, and phylogenetic analysis revealed that the DBTV Hebei strain clustered with previously reported DBTV strains. Furthermore, this virus was observed in engorged females, eggs, and larvae of the subsequent generation. Discussion It is necessary to expand the scope of DBTV investigation, particularly in northern China. This study demonstrated that DBTV can be transmitted from engorged females to larvae of the next generation. Moreover, the detection of DBTV in unfed nymphs and adults (which moulted from engorged nymphs) collected from the filed of Chengde suggests that H. longicornis serves as a potential transmission host and reservoir for DBTV through transstadial and transovarial transmission. However, there remains a lack of research on the isolation and pathogenicity of DBTV, highlighting the need for further studies to mitigate potential harm to the health of animals and humans.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiaofeng Xu
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Animal Physiology, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Hebei Collaborative Innovation Center for Eco-Environment, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Biology, College of Life Sciences, Hebei Normal University, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Zhihua Gao
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Animal Physiology, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Hebei Collaborative Innovation Center for Eco-Environment, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Biology, College of Life Sciences, Hebei Normal University, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Youhong Wu
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Animal Physiology, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Hebei Collaborative Innovation Center for Eco-Environment, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Biology, College of Life Sciences, Hebei Normal University, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Hong Yin
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Disease Prevention and Control, Key Laboratory of Veterinary Parasitology of Gansu Province, Lanzhou Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Science, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
| | - Qiaoyun Ren
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Disease Prevention and Control, Key Laboratory of Veterinary Parasitology of Gansu Province, Lanzhou Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Science, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
| | - Jie Zhang
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Preventive Veterinary Medicine, College of Animal Science and Technology, Hebei Normal University of Science and Technology, Qinhuangdao, China
| | - Yongsheng Liu
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Preventive Veterinary Medicine, College of Animal Science and Technology, Hebei Normal University of Science and Technology, Qinhuangdao, China
| | - Shunli Yang
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Preventive Veterinary Medicine, College of Animal Science and Technology, Hebei Normal University of Science and Technology, Qinhuangdao, China
| | | | - Ariunaa Tserendorj
- School of Veterinary Medicine, Mongolian University of Life Sciences, Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia
| | - Xiaolong Yang
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Animal Physiology, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Hebei Collaborative Innovation Center for Eco-Environment, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Biology, College of Life Sciences, Hebei Normal University, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Ze Chen
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Animal Physiology, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Hebei Collaborative Innovation Center for Eco-Environment, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Biology, College of Life Sciences, Hebei Normal University, Shijiazhuang, China
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Sene O, Sagne SN, Ngom D, Diagne MM, Badji A, Khoulé A, Ndiaye EH, Sankhe S, Loucoubar C, Diallo M, Weidmann M, Dia N, Simon-Lorière E, Sall Y, Diop B, Ndiaye M, Sakuntabhai A, Sall AA, Faye O, Faye O, Diallo D, Barry MA, Fall G. Emergence of Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic Fever Virus in Eastern Senegal in 2022. Viruses 2024; 16:315. [PMID: 38400090 PMCID: PMC10891565 DOI: 10.3390/v16020315] [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: 12/01/2023] [Revised: 01/05/2024] [Accepted: 01/10/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever (CCHF), the most widespread tick-borne viral human infection, poses a threat to global health. In this study, clinical samples collected through national surveillance systems were screened for acute CCHF virus (CCHFV) infection using RT-PCR and for exposure using ELISA. For any CCHF-positive sample, livestock and tick samples were also collected in the neighborhood of the confirmed case and tested using ELISA and RT-PCR, respectively. Genome sequencing and phylogenetic analyses were also performed on samples with positive RT-PCR results. In Eastern Senegal, two human cases and one Hyalomma tick positive for CCHF were identified and a seroprevalence in livestock ranging from 9.33% to 45.26% was detected. Phylogenetic analyses revealed that the human strain belonged to genotype I based on the available L segment. However, the tick strain showed a reassortant profile, with the L and M segments belonging to genotype I and the S segment belonging to genotype III. Our data also showed that our strains clustered with strains isolated in different countries, including Mauritania. Therefore, our findings confirmed the high genetic variability inside the CCHF genotypes and their introduction to Senegal from other countries. They also indicate an increasing CCHF threat in Senegal and emphasize the need to reinforce surveillance using a one-health approach.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ousseynou Sene
- WHO Collaborating Centre for Arbovirus and Viral Hemorrhagic Fevers, Virology Department, Pasteur Institute, Dakar 12900, Senegal; (O.S.); (M.M.D.); (S.S.); (N.D.); (A.A.S.); (O.F.); (O.F.)
| | - Samba Niang Sagne
- Epidemiology, Clinical Research & Data Science, Pasteur Institute, Dakar 12900, Senegal; (S.N.S.); (C.L.); (M.A.B.)
| | - Déthié Ngom
- Zoology Department, Pasteur Institute, Dakar 12900, Senegal; (D.N.); (A.B.); (A.K.); (E.H.N.); (M.D.); (D.D.)
| | - Moussa Moise Diagne
- WHO Collaborating Centre for Arbovirus and Viral Hemorrhagic Fevers, Virology Department, Pasteur Institute, Dakar 12900, Senegal; (O.S.); (M.M.D.); (S.S.); (N.D.); (A.A.S.); (O.F.); (O.F.)
| | - Aminata Badji
- Zoology Department, Pasteur Institute, Dakar 12900, Senegal; (D.N.); (A.B.); (A.K.); (E.H.N.); (M.D.); (D.D.)
| | - Aliou Khoulé
- Zoology Department, Pasteur Institute, Dakar 12900, Senegal; (D.N.); (A.B.); (A.K.); (E.H.N.); (M.D.); (D.D.)
| | - El Hadji Ndiaye
- Zoology Department, Pasteur Institute, Dakar 12900, Senegal; (D.N.); (A.B.); (A.K.); (E.H.N.); (M.D.); (D.D.)
| | - Safietou Sankhe
- WHO Collaborating Centre for Arbovirus and Viral Hemorrhagic Fevers, Virology Department, Pasteur Institute, Dakar 12900, Senegal; (O.S.); (M.M.D.); (S.S.); (N.D.); (A.A.S.); (O.F.); (O.F.)
| | - Cheikh Loucoubar
- Epidemiology, Clinical Research & Data Science, Pasteur Institute, Dakar 12900, Senegal; (S.N.S.); (C.L.); (M.A.B.)
| | - Mawlouth Diallo
- Zoology Department, Pasteur Institute, Dakar 12900, Senegal; (D.N.); (A.B.); (A.K.); (E.H.N.); (M.D.); (D.D.)
| | - Manfred Weidmann
- Institute of Microbiology and Virology, Brandenburg Medical School, 01968 Brandenburg, Germany;
| | - Ndongo Dia
- WHO Collaborating Centre for Arbovirus and Viral Hemorrhagic Fevers, Virology Department, Pasteur Institute, Dakar 12900, Senegal; (O.S.); (M.M.D.); (S.S.); (N.D.); (A.A.S.); (O.F.); (O.F.)
| | | | - Yoro Sall
- Ministry of Health, Dakar 10700, Senegal; (Y.S.); (B.D.); (M.N.)
| | - Boly Diop
- Ministry of Health, Dakar 10700, Senegal; (Y.S.); (B.D.); (M.N.)
| | - Mamadou Ndiaye
- Ministry of Health, Dakar 10700, Senegal; (Y.S.); (B.D.); (M.N.)
| | - Anavaj Sakuntabhai
- Functional Genetics of Infectious Disease Unit, Pasteur Institute, 75015 Paris, France;
- Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS), UMR2000, Department of Global Health, 75015 Paris, France
- International Vaccine Design Center (vDesC), The Institute of Medical Science, The University of Tokyo (IMSUT), Tokyo 108-8639, Japan
| | - Amadou Alpha Sall
- WHO Collaborating Centre for Arbovirus and Viral Hemorrhagic Fevers, Virology Department, Pasteur Institute, Dakar 12900, Senegal; (O.S.); (M.M.D.); (S.S.); (N.D.); (A.A.S.); (O.F.); (O.F.)
| | - Ousmane Faye
- WHO Collaborating Centre for Arbovirus and Viral Hemorrhagic Fevers, Virology Department, Pasteur Institute, Dakar 12900, Senegal; (O.S.); (M.M.D.); (S.S.); (N.D.); (A.A.S.); (O.F.); (O.F.)
| | - Oumar Faye
- WHO Collaborating Centre for Arbovirus and Viral Hemorrhagic Fevers, Virology Department, Pasteur Institute, Dakar 12900, Senegal; (O.S.); (M.M.D.); (S.S.); (N.D.); (A.A.S.); (O.F.); (O.F.)
| | - Diawo Diallo
- Zoology Department, Pasteur Institute, Dakar 12900, Senegal; (D.N.); (A.B.); (A.K.); (E.H.N.); (M.D.); (D.D.)
| | - Mamadou Aliou Barry
- Epidemiology, Clinical Research & Data Science, Pasteur Institute, Dakar 12900, Senegal; (S.N.S.); (C.L.); (M.A.B.)
| | - Gamou Fall
- WHO Collaborating Centre for Arbovirus and Viral Hemorrhagic Fevers, Virology Department, Pasteur Institute, Dakar 12900, Senegal; (O.S.); (M.M.D.); (S.S.); (N.D.); (A.A.S.); (O.F.); (O.F.)
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Charles RA, Pow-Brown P, Gordon-Dillon A, Blake L, Nicholls S, Brown-Jordan A, Caruth J, Sant C, Pargass I, Basu A, Albina E, Oura C, Georges K. Completing the Puzzle: A Cluster of Hunting Dogs with Tick-Borne Illness from a Fishing Community in Tobago, West Indies. Pathogens 2024; 13:161. [PMID: 38392899 PMCID: PMC10891510 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens13020161] [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: 12/27/2023] [Revised: 02/07/2024] [Accepted: 02/08/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Eight hunting dogs were visited by a state veterinarian on the island of Tobago, Trinidad and Tobago, West Indies, as owners reported anorexia and paralysis in five of their dogs. The veterinarian observed a combination of clinical signs consistent with tick-borne illness, including fever, anorexia, anaemia, lethargy and paralysis. Blood and ticks were collected from each dog and submitted to a diagnostic laboratory for analysis. Microscopic analysis revealed a mixed infection of intracytoplasmic organisms consistent with Babesia spp. (erythrocyte) and Ehrlichia spp. (monocyte), respectively, from one dog, while a complete blood count indicated a regenerative anaemia (n = 1; 12.5%), non-regenerative anaemia (n = 4; 50%), neutrophilia (n = 3; 37.5%), lymphocytosis (n = 2; 25%), thrombocytopaenia (n = 3; 37.5%) and pancytopaenia (n = 1; 12.5%). DNA isolated from the eight blood samples and 20 ticks (16 Rhipicephalus sanguineus and 4 Amblyomma ovale) were subjected to conventional PCR and next-generation sequencing of the 16S rRNA and 18S rRNA gene for Anaplasma/Ehrlichia and Babesia/Theileria/Hepatozoon, respectively. The DNA of Ehrlichia spp., closely related to Ehrlichia canis, was detected in the blood of three dogs (37.5%), Anaplasma spp., closely related to Anaplasma marginale, in two (25%), Babesia vogeli in one dog (12.5%) and seven ticks (35%) and Hepatozoon canis and Anaplasma spp., in one tick (5%), respectively. These findings highlight the need to test both the vector and host for the presence of tick-borne pathogens when undertaking diagnostic investigations. Further studies are also warranted to elucidate the susceptibility of canids to Anaplasma marginale.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Roxanne A. Charles
- School of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Medical Sciences, The University of the West Indies, St. Augustine, Trinidad and Tobago; (P.P.-B.); (L.B.); (C.S.); (I.P.); (A.B.); (C.O.); (K.G.)
| | - Patricia Pow-Brown
- School of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Medical Sciences, The University of the West Indies, St. Augustine, Trinidad and Tobago; (P.P.-B.); (L.B.); (C.S.); (I.P.); (A.B.); (C.O.); (K.G.)
| | - Annika Gordon-Dillon
- Animal Health Unit, Division of Food Security, Natural Resources, The Environment and Sustainable Development, Tobago House of Assembly, Milshirv Administrative Complex, Corner Milford & Shirvan Road, Tobago, Trinidad and Tobago; (A.G.-D.); (J.C.)
| | - Lemar Blake
- School of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Medical Sciences, The University of the West Indies, St. Augustine, Trinidad and Tobago; (P.P.-B.); (L.B.); (C.S.); (I.P.); (A.B.); (C.O.); (K.G.)
| | - Soren Nicholls
- Department of Preclinical Sciences, Faculty of Medical Sciences, The University of the West Indies, St. Augustine, Trinidad and Tobago; (S.N.); (A.B.-J.)
| | - Arianne Brown-Jordan
- Department of Preclinical Sciences, Faculty of Medical Sciences, The University of the West Indies, St. Augustine, Trinidad and Tobago; (S.N.); (A.B.-J.)
| | - Joanne Caruth
- Animal Health Unit, Division of Food Security, Natural Resources, The Environment and Sustainable Development, Tobago House of Assembly, Milshirv Administrative Complex, Corner Milford & Shirvan Road, Tobago, Trinidad and Tobago; (A.G.-D.); (J.C.)
| | - Candice Sant
- School of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Medical Sciences, The University of the West Indies, St. Augustine, Trinidad and Tobago; (P.P.-B.); (L.B.); (C.S.); (I.P.); (A.B.); (C.O.); (K.G.)
| | - Indira Pargass
- School of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Medical Sciences, The University of the West Indies, St. Augustine, Trinidad and Tobago; (P.P.-B.); (L.B.); (C.S.); (I.P.); (A.B.); (C.O.); (K.G.)
| | - Asoke Basu
- School of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Medical Sciences, The University of the West Indies, St. Augustine, Trinidad and Tobago; (P.P.-B.); (L.B.); (C.S.); (I.P.); (A.B.); (C.O.); (K.G.)
| | - Emmanuel Albina
- Centre de coopération internationale en recherche agronomique pour le développement (CIRAD), DGDRS, 34000 Montpellier, France;
| | - Christopher Oura
- School of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Medical Sciences, The University of the West Indies, St. Augustine, Trinidad and Tobago; (P.P.-B.); (L.B.); (C.S.); (I.P.); (A.B.); (C.O.); (K.G.)
| | - Karla Georges
- School of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Medical Sciences, The University of the West Indies, St. Augustine, Trinidad and Tobago; (P.P.-B.); (L.B.); (C.S.); (I.P.); (A.B.); (C.O.); (K.G.)
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Rockwell EM, Abernathy HA, Evans LM, Bhowmik R, Giandomenico DA, Salzer JS, Maldonado CJ, Choi YS, Boyce RM. Changes in the Seroprevalence of Tick-Borne Rickettsia and Ehrlichia Among Soldiers-Fort Liberty, North Carolina, 1991-2019. J Infect Dis 2024:jiae028. [PMID: 38330207 DOI: 10.1093/infdis/jiae028] [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: 11/12/2023] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 02/10/2024] Open
Abstract
We obtained samples from the Department of Defense Serum Repository from soldiers who were stationed at Fort Liberty, North Carolina, between 1991 and 2019 to assess temporal trends in tick-borne rickettsiosis and ehrlichiosis. Serological evidence of infection was common, with nearly 1 in 5 (18.9%) demonstrating antibodies. We observed significant decreases in Rickettsia seroprevalence (adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 0.42 [95% CI, .27-.65], P = .0001) while over the same period Ehrlichia seroprevalence, albeit less common, nearly doubled (aOR, 3.61 [95% CI, 1.10-13.99], P = .048). The increase in Ehrlichia seroprevalence likely reflects increased transmission resulting from the expanding geographic range of the lone star tick.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Lanya M Evans
- Institute for Global Health and Infectious Diseases, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
| | - Ryan Bhowmik
- Institute for Global Health and Infectious Diseases, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
| | - Dana A Giandomenico
- Institute for Global Health and Infectious Diseases, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
| | - Johanna S Salzer
- Rickettsial Zoonoses Branch, Division of Vector-Borne Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Carlos J Maldonado
- Department of Research/Clinical Investigation, Womack Army Medical Center, Fort Liberty
| | - Y Sammy Choi
- Department of Research/Clinical Investigation, Womack Army Medical Center, Fort Liberty
| | - Ross M Boyce
- Department of Epidemiology, Gillings School of Global Public Health
- Institute for Global Health and Infectious Diseases, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
- Carolina Population Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Zhang YK, Li SS, Yang C, Zhang YF, Zhang XY, Liu JZ. Tetracycline inhibits tick host reproduction by modulating bacterial microbiota, gene expression and metabolism levels. Pest Manag Sci 2024; 80:366-375. [PMID: 37694307 DOI: 10.1002/ps.7766] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2023] [Revised: 09/07/2023] [Accepted: 09/11/2023] [Indexed: 09/12/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Ticks are disease vectors that are a matter of worldwide concern. Antibiotic treatments have been used to explore the interactions between ticks and their symbiotic microorganisms. In addition to altering the host microbial community, antibiotics can have toxic effects on the host. RESULTS In the tick Haemaphysalis longicornis, engorged females showed reproductive disruption after microinjection of tetracycline. Multi-omics approaches were implemented to unravel the mechanisms of tick reproductive inhibition in this study. There were no significant changes in bacterial density in the whole ticks on Day (D)2 or D4 after tetracycline treatment, whereas the bacterial microbial community was significantly altered, especially on D4. The relative abundances of the bacteria Staphylococcus, Bacillus and Pseudomonas decreased after tetracycline treatment, whereas the relative abundances of Coxiella and Rhodococcus increased. Ovarian transcriptional analysis revealed a cumulative effect of tetracycline treatment, as there was a significant increase in the number of differentially expressed genes with treatment time and a higher number of downregulated genes. The tick physiological pathways including lysosome, extracellular matrix (ECM)-receptor interaction, biosynthesis of ubiquinone and other terpenoids-quinones, insect hormone biosynthesis, and focal adhesion were significantly inhibited after 4 days of tetracycline treatment. Metabolite levels were altered after tetracycline treatment and the differences increased with treatment time. The differential metabolites were involved in a variety of physiological pathways; the downregulated metabolites were significantly enriched in the nicotinate and nicotinamide metabolism, galactose metabolism, and ether lipid metabolism pathways. CONCLUSIONS These findings indicate that tetracycline inhibits tick reproduction through the regulation of tick bacterial communities, gene expression and metabolic levels. The results may provide new strategies for tick control. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yan-Kai Zhang
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Animal Physiology, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Life Sciences, Hebei Normal University, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Si-Si Li
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Animal Physiology, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Life Sciences, Hebei Normal University, Shijiazhuang, China
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Wetland Ecology and Conservation, Hengshui University, Hengshui, China
| | - Chen Yang
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Animal Physiology, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Life Sciences, Hebei Normal University, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Yu-Fan Zhang
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Animal Physiology, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Life Sciences, Hebei Normal University, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Xiao-Yu Zhang
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Animal Physiology, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Life Sciences, Hebei Normal University, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Jing-Ze Liu
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Animal Physiology, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Life Sciences, Hebei Normal University, Shijiazhuang, China
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Vázquez-Guerrero E, Kneubehl AR, Pellegrini-Hernández P, González-Quiroz JL, Domínguez-López ML, Krishnavajhala A, Estrada-de Los Santos P, Ibarra JA, Lopez JE. Borrelia turicatae from Ticks in Peridomestic Setting, Camayeca, Mexico. Emerg Infect Dis 2024; 30:380-383. [PMID: 38270112 PMCID: PMC10826751 DOI: 10.3201/eid3002.231053] [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
We conducted surveillance studies in Sinaloa, Mexico, to determine the circulation of tick-borne relapsing fever spirochetes. We collected argasid ticks from a home in the village of Camayeca and isolated spirochetes. Genomic analysis indicated that Borrelia turicatae infection is a threat to those living in resource-limited settings.
Collapse
|
16
|
Megía-Palma R, Paranjpe D, Cooper RD, Blaimont P, Sinervo B. Natural parasites in conjunction with behavioral and color traits explain male agonistic behaviors in a lizard. Curr Zool 2024; 70:59-69. [PMID: 38476133 PMCID: PMC10926264 DOI: 10.1093/cz/zoac095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [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: 07/23/2022] [Accepted: 11/19/2022] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Male competition conforms to a cost-benefit model, because while aggression may increase reproductive prospects, it can also increase the risk of injury. We hypothesize that an additional cost in aggressive males would be an increase in parasite load associated with a high energy investment into sexual competition. Some of these infections, in turn, may downmodulate the level of host aggression via energetic trade-offs. We staged dyadic male contests in the lab to investigate the relationships of multiple parasites with the agonistic behavior of lizard hosts, Sceloporus occidentalis. We also included both color and behavioral traits from opponents in the analyses because (1) color patches of lizards may serve as intraspecific signals used by conspecifics to assess the quality of opponents, and (2) contests between male lizards fit classical models of escalated aggression, where lizards increase aggression displays in response to an opponent's behavior. The results conform to our hypothesis because male lizards displayed more pushups when they had more ticks. Moreover, some parasites may modulate the levels of aggression because lizards infected by hematic coccidians performed fewer pushups. Interestingly, lizards also displayed fewer pushups when both the chroma and size of the opponent's blue patch were greater. The results thus also supported the role of the blue patch of S. occidentalis as a sexual armament, because it contributed to the deterrence of aggression from opponent lizards. We revealed that natural parasitic infections in lizard hosts can contribute to their agonistic behavior. We encourage future studies to account for parasites in behavioral tests with lizards.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rodrigo Megía-Palma
- Department of Biomedicine and Biotechnology, Parasitology Unit, Universidad de Alcalá (UAH), E-28805, Alcalá de Henares, Spain
- CIBIO, Centro de Investigação em Biodiversidade e Recursos Genéticos, InBIO Laboratório Associado, Campus de Vairão, Universidade do Porto, P-4485-661 Vairão, Portugal
- BIOPOLIS Program in Genomics, Biodiversity and Land Planning, CIBIO, Campus de Vairão, P-4485-661 Vairão, Portugal
| | - Dhanashree Paranjpe
- Rupa Rahul Bajaj Center for Environment and Art, Empress Botanical Gardens, Kavade Mala, Pune, India
| | - Robert D Cooper
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of California, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Pauline Blaimont
- Department of Biology, University of Houston Downtown, 1 Main St., Houston, TX 77002, USA
| | - Barry Sinervo
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of California, Santa Cruz, CA 95064, USA
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Gaffuri A, Sassera D, Calzolari M, Gibelli L, Lelli D, Tebaldi A, Vicari N, Bianchi A, Pigoli C, Cerioli M, Zandonà L, Varisco G, Bertoletti I, Prati P. Tick-Borne Encephalitis, Lombardy, Italy. Emerg Infect Dis 2024; 30:341-344. [PMID: 38270164 PMCID: PMC10826753 DOI: 10.3201/eid3002.231016] [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
Tick-borne encephalitis was limited to northeast portions of Italy. We report in Lombardy, a populous region in the northwest, a chamois displaying clinical signs of tickborne encephalitis virus that had multiple virus-positive ticks attached, as well as a symptomatic man. Further, we show serologic evidence of viral circulation in the area.
Collapse
|
18
|
Bernard C, Joly Kukla C, Rakotoarivony I, Duhayon M, Stachurski F, Huber K, Giupponi C, Zortman I, Holzmuller P, Pollet T, Jeanneau M, Mercey A, Vachiery N, Lefrançois T, Garros C, Michaud V, Comtet L, Despois L, Pourquier P, Picard C, Journeaux A, Thomas D, Godard S, Moissonnier E, Mely S, Sega M, Pannetier D, Baize S, Vial L. Detection of Crimean-Congo haemorrhagic fever virus in Hyalomma marginatum ticks, southern France, May 2022 and April 2023. Euro Surveill 2024; 29:2400023. [PMID: 38333936 PMCID: PMC10853980 DOI: 10.2807/1560-7917.es.2024.29.6.2400023] [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: 01/10/2024] [Accepted: 02/01/2024] [Indexed: 02/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Crimean-Congo haemorrhagic fever (CCHF), a potentially severe zoonotic viral disease causing fever and haemorrhagic manifestations in humans. As the Crimean-Congo haemorrhagic fever virus (CCHFV) has been detected in ticks in Spain and antibodies against the virus in ruminant sera in Corsica, it was necessary to know more about the situation in France. In 2022-2023, CCHFV was detected in 155 ticks collected from horses and cattle in southern France.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Célia Bernard
- Centre de coopération internationale en recherche agronomique pour le développement (CIRAD), University of Montpellier (UMR) Animal Santé Territoires Risques Écosystèmes (ASTRE), Montpellier, France
- ASTRE UMR, CIRAD, Institut national de la recherche agronomique (INRAE), Montpellier, France
| | - Charlotte Joly Kukla
- Centre de coopération internationale en recherche agronomique pour le développement (CIRAD), University of Montpellier (UMR) Animal Santé Territoires Risques Écosystèmes (ASTRE), Montpellier, France
- ASTRE UMR, CIRAD, Institut national de la recherche agronomique (INRAE), Montpellier, France
- Agence nationale de sécurité sanitaire de l'alimentation, de l'environnement et du travail (ANSES), INRAE, Ecole Nationale Vétérinaire d'Alfort, UMR BIPAR, Laboratoire de Santé Animale, Maisons-Alfort, France
| | - Ignace Rakotoarivony
- Centre de coopération internationale en recherche agronomique pour le développement (CIRAD), University of Montpellier (UMR) Animal Santé Territoires Risques Écosystèmes (ASTRE), Montpellier, France
- ASTRE UMR, CIRAD, Institut national de la recherche agronomique (INRAE), Montpellier, France
| | - Maxime Duhayon
- Centre de coopération internationale en recherche agronomique pour le développement (CIRAD), University of Montpellier (UMR) Animal Santé Territoires Risques Écosystèmes (ASTRE), Montpellier, France
- ASTRE UMR, CIRAD, Institut national de la recherche agronomique (INRAE), Montpellier, France
| | - Frédéric Stachurski
- Centre de coopération internationale en recherche agronomique pour le développement (CIRAD), University of Montpellier (UMR) Animal Santé Territoires Risques Écosystèmes (ASTRE), Montpellier, France
- ASTRE UMR, CIRAD, Institut national de la recherche agronomique (INRAE), Montpellier, France
| | - Karine Huber
- Centre de coopération internationale en recherche agronomique pour le développement (CIRAD), University of Montpellier (UMR) Animal Santé Territoires Risques Écosystèmes (ASTRE), Montpellier, France
- ASTRE UMR, CIRAD, Institut national de la recherche agronomique (INRAE), Montpellier, France
| | - Carla Giupponi
- Centre de coopération internationale en recherche agronomique pour le développement (CIRAD), University of Montpellier (UMR) Animal Santé Territoires Risques Écosystèmes (ASTRE), Montpellier, France
- ASTRE UMR, CIRAD, Institut national de la recherche agronomique (INRAE), Montpellier, France
| | - Iyonna Zortman
- Centre de coopération internationale en recherche agronomique pour le développement (CIRAD), University of Montpellier (UMR) Animal Santé Territoires Risques Écosystèmes (ASTRE), Montpellier, France
- ASTRE UMR, CIRAD, Institut national de la recherche agronomique (INRAE), Montpellier, France
| | - Philippe Holzmuller
- Centre de coopération internationale en recherche agronomique pour le développement (CIRAD), University of Montpellier (UMR) Animal Santé Territoires Risques Écosystèmes (ASTRE), Montpellier, France
- ASTRE UMR, CIRAD, Institut national de la recherche agronomique (INRAE), Montpellier, France
| | - Thomas Pollet
- Centre de coopération internationale en recherche agronomique pour le développement (CIRAD), University of Montpellier (UMR) Animal Santé Territoires Risques Écosystèmes (ASTRE), Montpellier, France
- ASTRE UMR, CIRAD, Institut national de la recherche agronomique (INRAE), Montpellier, France
| | - Mélanie Jeanneau
- Centre de coopération internationale en recherche agronomique pour le développement (CIRAD), University of Montpellier (UMR) Animal Santé Territoires Risques Écosystèmes (ASTRE), Montpellier, France
- ASTRE UMR, CIRAD, Institut national de la recherche agronomique (INRAE), Montpellier, France
| | - Alice Mercey
- Centre de coopération internationale en recherche agronomique pour le développement (CIRAD), University of Montpellier (UMR) Animal Santé Territoires Risques Écosystèmes (ASTRE), Montpellier, France
- ASTRE UMR, CIRAD, Institut national de la recherche agronomique (INRAE), Montpellier, France
| | - Nathalie Vachiery
- Centre de coopération internationale en recherche agronomique pour le développement (CIRAD), University of Montpellier (UMR) Animal Santé Territoires Risques Écosystèmes (ASTRE), Montpellier, France
- ASTRE UMR, CIRAD, Institut national de la recherche agronomique (INRAE), Montpellier, France
| | | | - Claire Garros
- Centre de coopération internationale en recherche agronomique pour le développement (CIRAD), University of Montpellier (UMR) Animal Santé Territoires Risques Écosystèmes (ASTRE), Montpellier, France
- ASTRE UMR, CIRAD, Institut national de la recherche agronomique (INRAE), Montpellier, France
| | - Vincent Michaud
- Centre de coopération internationale en recherche agronomique pour le développement (CIRAD), University of Montpellier (UMR) Animal Santé Territoires Risques Écosystèmes (ASTRE), Montpellier, France
- ASTRE UMR, CIRAD, Institut national de la recherche agronomique (INRAE), Montpellier, France
| | | | | | | | - Caroline Picard
- National Reference Center for Viral Hemorrhagic Fevers, Lyon, France
- Unité de Biologie des Infections Virales Emergentes, Institut Pasteur - Centre International de Recherche en Infectiologie (CIRI), Université de Lyon, Institut national de la santé et de la recherche médicale (INSERM) U1111, Ecole Normale Supérieure de Lyon, Université Lyon 1, CNRS UMR5308, Lyon, France
| | - Alexandra Journeaux
- National Reference Center for Viral Hemorrhagic Fevers, Lyon, France
- Unité de Biologie des Infections Virales Emergentes, Institut Pasteur - Centre International de Recherche en Infectiologie (CIRI), Université de Lyon, Institut national de la santé et de la recherche médicale (INSERM) U1111, Ecole Normale Supérieure de Lyon, Université Lyon 1, CNRS UMR5308, Lyon, France
| | - Damien Thomas
- National Reference Center for Viral Hemorrhagic Fevers, Lyon, France
- Laboratoire P4 INSERM Jean Mérieux, INSERM Lyon, France
| | - Sabine Godard
- National Reference Center for Viral Hemorrhagic Fevers, Lyon, France
- Laboratoire P4 INSERM Jean Mérieux, INSERM Lyon, France
| | - Elodie Moissonnier
- National Reference Center for Viral Hemorrhagic Fevers, Lyon, France
- Laboratoire P4 INSERM Jean Mérieux, INSERM Lyon, France
| | - Stéphane Mely
- National Reference Center for Viral Hemorrhagic Fevers, Lyon, France
- Laboratoire P4 INSERM Jean Mérieux, INSERM Lyon, France
| | - Manon Sega
- National Reference Center for Viral Hemorrhagic Fevers, Lyon, France
- Laboratoire P4 INSERM Jean Mérieux, INSERM Lyon, France
| | - Delphine Pannetier
- National Reference Center for Viral Hemorrhagic Fevers, Lyon, France
- Laboratoire P4 INSERM Jean Mérieux, INSERM Lyon, France
| | - Sylvain Baize
- National Reference Center for Viral Hemorrhagic Fevers, Lyon, France
- Unité de Biologie des Infections Virales Emergentes, Institut Pasteur - Centre International de Recherche en Infectiologie (CIRI), Université de Lyon, Institut national de la santé et de la recherche médicale (INSERM) U1111, Ecole Normale Supérieure de Lyon, Université Lyon 1, CNRS UMR5308, Lyon, France
| | - Laurence Vial
- Centre de coopération internationale en recherche agronomique pour le développement (CIRAD), University of Montpellier (UMR) Animal Santé Territoires Risques Écosystèmes (ASTRE), Montpellier, France
- ASTRE UMR, CIRAD, Institut national de la recherche agronomique (INRAE), Montpellier, France
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Sidhik S, Santhosh S, Rathinam B. Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices Regarding Ticks, Tick-Borne Diseases, and Ethnomedicine Among an at-Risk Population in Kerala. Vector Borne Zoonotic Dis 2024; 24:86-94. [PMID: 37844113 DOI: 10.1089/vbz.2023.0040] [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: 10/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Tick and tick-borne diseases (TBDs) are increasing annually, and the study of ticks has gained importance after the outbreak of Kyasanur Forest disease (KFD) in the South Western Ghats of India. Wayanad district of Kerala, with the highest tribal population in South India, is a KFD endemic state, owing to the lack of knowledge, attitude, and practice studies on TBDs and ethnomedicines against ticks. This study was carried out to assess their baseline knowledge, attitude, and ethnomedicinal practice against ticks. A structured questionnaire was used to conduct a survey of 499 tribal members living in forest fringe areas. Logistic regression analysis was performed to identify the factors that influence the knowledge, attitude, and practice of tribes on TBDs. More than 70% of the population visit the forests on a regular basis, with 65.7% of the population regularly exposed to tick bites; however, only 47.7% were aware of TBDs. About 47.4% of the respondents took precautions like therapeutics and natural remedies to avoid tick bites. Ten species of medicinal plant belonging to eight different families have been identified from the survey. The tribal population use these plants to repel ticks as well as treat tick bites. From the study, we concluded that the limited in-depth knowledge displayed by the tribes can be strengthened by conducting community programs such as awareness classes on TBD and its control measures. The ethnobotanicals identified can be used to formulate novel tick repellents in the future.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sahina Sidhik
- Department of Medical Entomology and Zoology, National Institute of Virology, Alappuzha, Kerala, India
| | - Sithalakshmi Santhosh
- Department of Medical Entomology and Zoology, National Institute of Virology, Alappuzha, Kerala, India
| | - Balasubramanian Rathinam
- Department of Medical Entomology and Zoology, National Institute of Virology, Alappuzha, Kerala, India
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Perusko M, Grundström J, Eldh M, Hamsten C, Apostolovic D, van Hage M. The α-Gal epitope - the cause of a global allergic disease. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1335911. [PMID: 38318181 PMCID: PMC10838981 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1335911] [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] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2023] [Accepted: 01/02/2024] [Indexed: 02/07/2024] Open
Abstract
The galactose-α-1,3-galactose (α-Gal) epitope is the cause of a global allergic disease, the α-Gal syndrome (AGS). It is a severe form of allergy to food and products of mammalian origin where IgE against the mammalian carbohydrate, α-Gal, is the cause of the allergic reactions. Allergic reactions triggered by parenterally administered α-Gal sources appear immediately, but those triggered via the oral route appear with a latency of several hours. The α-Gal epitope is highly immunogenic to humans, apes and old-world monkeys, all of which produce anti-α-Gal antibodies of the IgM, IgA and IgG subclasses. Strong evidence suggests that in susceptible individuals, class switch to IgE occurs after several tick bites. In this review, we discuss the strong immunogenic role of the α-Gal epitope and its structural resemblance to the blood type B antigen. We emphasize the broad abundance of α-Gal in different foods and pharmaceuticals and the allergenicity of various α-Gal containing molecules. We give an overview of the association of tick bites with the development of AGS and describe innate and adaptive immune response to tick saliva that possibly leads to sensitization to α-Gal. We further discuss a currently favored hypothesis explaining the mechanisms of the delayed effector phase of the allergic reaction to α-Gal. We highlight AGS from a clinical point of view. We review the different clinical manifestations of the disease and the prevalence of sensitization to α-Gal and AGS. The usefulness of various diagnostic tests is discussed. Finally, we provide different aspects of the management of AGS. With climate change and global warming, the tick density is increasing, and their geographic range is expanding. Thus, more people will be affected by AGS which requires more knowledge of the disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marija Perusko
- Division of Immunology and Allergy, Department of Medicine Solna, Karolinska Institutet, and Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
- Center for Molecular Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Innovative Centre of the Faculty of Chemistry, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Jeanette Grundström
- Division of Immunology and Allergy, Department of Medicine Solna, Karolinska Institutet, and Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
- Center for Molecular Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Maria Eldh
- Division of Immunology and Allergy, Department of Medicine Solna, Karolinska Institutet, and Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
- Center for Molecular Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Carl Hamsten
- Division of Immunology and Allergy, Department of Medicine Solna, Karolinska Institutet, and Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
- Center for Molecular Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Danijela Apostolovic
- Division of Immunology and Allergy, Department of Medicine Solna, Karolinska Institutet, and Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
- Center for Molecular Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Marianne van Hage
- Division of Immunology and Allergy, Department of Medicine Solna, Karolinska Institutet, and Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
- Center for Molecular Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Benedek AM, Boeraș I, Lazăr A, Sandu A, Cocîrlea MD, Stănciugelu M, Cic NV, Postolache C. Effects of Season, Habitat, and Host Characteristics on Ectoparasites of Wild Rodents in a Mosaic Rural Landscape. Animals (Basel) 2024; 14:304. [PMID: 38254473 PMCID: PMC10812489 DOI: 10.3390/ani14020304] [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: 12/21/2023] [Revised: 01/09/2024] [Accepted: 01/16/2024] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Despite the large number of studies on rodent ectoparasites-most of them vectors of epidemiologically important pathogens-infestation patterns remain poorly understood in various ecological contexts, such as the highly patchy agricultural landscapes. We aimed to relate the infestation of rodents to temporal, habitat, and host variables. We assessed the difference in parasite prevalence and mean abundance depending on host sex, age, and body weight, season, and land use intensity. Furthermore, we analysed the effect of host species abundance and the differential responses of parasites in main and minor host species. The field survey was conducted in a rural landscape in southern Transylvania (Romania) between June and September 2010-2011. We live-trapped small mammals, collected the ticks and fleas, and recorded the presence of lice and mites. Overall, we found the same infestation patterns largely reported in the literature: higher prevalence and mean abundance in heavier adult males, significant seasonality and differences among host species, and evidence of the dilution effect. The uniqueness of our study system was the negative effect of the land use intensity on the prevalence and mean abundance of parasites, explained by the highly patchy mosaic landscape.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ana Maria Benedek
- Doctoral School in Ecology, Faculty of Biology, University of Bucharest, 050095 Bucharest, Romania; (A.S.); (C.P.)
- Faculty of Sciences, Lucian Blaga University of Sibiu, 550012 Sibiu, Romania;
| | - Ioana Boeraș
- Faculty of Sciences, Lucian Blaga University of Sibiu, 550012 Sibiu, Romania;
| | - Anamaria Lazăr
- Faculty of Food and Tourism, Transylvania University of Braşov, 500036 Brașov, Romania;
| | - Alexandra Sandu
- Doctoral School in Ecology, Faculty of Biology, University of Bucharest, 050095 Bucharest, Romania; (A.S.); (C.P.)
| | - Maria Denisa Cocîrlea
- Department of Agricultural Sciences and Food Engineering, Lucian Blaga University of Sibiu, 550012 Sibiu, Romania;
- Institute for Interdisciplinary Studies and Research, Lucian Blaga University of Sibiu, 550024 Sibiu, Romania
| | - Maria Stănciugelu
- Brukenthal National Museum, Natural History Museum, 550163 Sibiu, Romania;
| | | | - Carmen Postolache
- Doctoral School in Ecology, Faculty of Biology, University of Bucharest, 050095 Bucharest, Romania; (A.S.); (C.P.)
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Wilson JM, Erickson L, Levin M, Ailsworth SM, Commins SP, Platts-Mills TAE. Tick bites, IgE to galactose-alpha-1,3-galactose and urticarial or anaphylactic reactions to mammalian meat: The alpha-gal syndrome. Allergy 2024. [PMID: 38193233 DOI: 10.1111/all.16003] [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: 07/29/2023] [Revised: 12/18/2023] [Accepted: 12/19/2023] [Indexed: 01/10/2024]
Abstract
The recent recognition of a syndrome of tick-acquired mammalian meat allergy has transformed the previously held view that mammalian meat is an uncommon allergen. The syndrome, mediated by IgE antibodies against the oligosaccharide galactose-alpha-1,3-galactose (alpha-gal), can also involve reactions to visceral organs, dairy, gelatin and other products, including medications sourced from non-primate mammals. Thus, fittingly, this allergic disorder is now called the alpha-gal syndrome (AGS). The syndrome is strikingly regional, reflecting the important role of tick bites in sensitization, and is more common in demographic groups at risk of tick exposure. Reactions in AGS are delayed, often by 2-6 h after ingestion of mammalian meat. In addition to classic allergic symptomatology such as urticaria and anaphylaxis, AGS is increasingly recognized as a cause of isolated gastrointestinal morbidity and alpha-gal sensitization has also been linked with cardiovascular disease. The unusual link with tick bites may be explained by the fact that allergic cells and mediators are mobilized to the site of tick bites and play a role in resistance against ticks and tick-borne infections. IgE directed to alpha-gal is likely an incidental consequence of what is otherwise an adaptive immune strategy for host defense against endo- and ectoparasites, including ticks.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jeffrey M Wilson
- Division of Allergy and Immunology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
| | - Loren Erickson
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Cancer Biology and Beirne Carter Center for Immunology Research, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
| | | | - Samuel M Ailsworth
- Division of Allergy and Immunology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
| | - Scott P Commins
- Division of Rheumatology, Allergy and Immunology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | | |
Collapse
|
23
|
Moming A, Bai Y, Chen S, Wu Q, Wang J, Jin J, Tang S, Sun S, Zhang Y, Shen S, Deng F. Epidemiological surveys revealed the risk of TAMV spill-over from ticks to hosts. Infect Dis (Lond) 2024; 56:59-65. [PMID: 37850325 DOI: 10.1080/23744235.2023.2270677] [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] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2023] [Accepted: 10/08/2023] [Indexed: 10/19/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Tick-borne viral diseases have become an increasingly important public health concern. Tamdy virus (TAMV) is a tick-borne virus of the genus Orthonairovirus in the family Nairoviridae. While some studies have suggested that TAMV is a pathogen associated with human febrile illness, its epidemiology and the risk of TAMV spill-over remain poorly understood. METHODS Ticks were collected in Xinjiang, China, and grouped into pools. RT-PCR assays were used to detect TAMV RNA in these pools. The seroprevalence of TAMV was investigated using Immunofluorescence assays, Western blotting, and Luciferase immunoprecipitation system (LIPS) assays. RESULTS TAMV RNA was detected in 17 out of 363 tick pools, resulting in a minimum infection rate (MIR) of 4.7%. Hyalomma asiaticum and Dermacentor nuttalli were identified as major tick vectors of TAMV. Phylogenetic analysis demonstrated that TAMV strains from Xinjiang are closely related to strains from other countries. Seroprevalence studies showed that TAMV exposure has been occurring in Xinjiang since at least 2006. Antibody responses to TAMV were detected in 1.1% (26/2296) of animals, including domestic animals and wild rodents. The seropositivity rates were as follows: sheep (1.7%), dog (2.3%), Marmota monax (0.8%), Meriones meridianus (3.5%). CONCLUSIONS The research findings reveal that TAMV can be transmitted by ticks to various animal species, posing a significant public health risk. The wide distribution of TAMV and its tick vectors emphasise the importance of early preparedness and control measures. This study highlights the necessity for maintaining vigilance in addressing emerging zoonotic diseases transmitted by ticks.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Abulimiti Moming
- State Key Laboratory of Virology and National Virus Resource Center, Wuhan Institute of Virology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, China
| | - Yuan Bai
- State Key Laboratory of Virology and National Virus Resource Center, Wuhan Institute of Virology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, China
| | - Shengyao Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Virology and National Virus Resource Center, Wuhan Institute of Virology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, China
| | - Qiaoli Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Virology and National Virus Resource Center, Wuhan Institute of Virology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, China
| | - Jun Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Virology and National Virus Resource Center, Wuhan Institute of Virology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, China
| | - Jiayin Jin
- State Key Laboratory of Virology and National Virus Resource Center, Wuhan Institute of Virology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, China
| | - Shuang Tang
- State Key Laboratory of Virology and National Virus Resource Center, Wuhan Institute of Virology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, China
| | - Surong Sun
- Xinjiang Key Laboratory of Biological Resources and Genetic Engineering, College of Life Science and Technology, Xinjiang University, Urumqi, China
| | - Yujiang Zhang
- Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Center for Disease Control and Prevention of Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Urumqi, China
| | - Shu Shen
- State Key Laboratory of Virology and National Virus Resource Center, Wuhan Institute of Virology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, China
- Hubei Jiangxia Laboratory, Wuhan, China
| | - Fei Deng
- State Key Laboratory of Virology and National Virus Resource Center, Wuhan Institute of Virology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, China
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Eisen L. Efficacy of Unregulated Minimum Risk Products to Kill and Repel Ticks. Emerg Infect Dis 2024; 30:1-7. [PMID: 38146965 PMCID: PMC10756381 DOI: 10.3201/eid3001.230813] [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: 12/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Human-biting ticks threaten public health in the United States. Registration by the Environmental Protection Agency of products to kill host-seeking ticks or repel ticks contacting humans is indicative of their safety and effectiveness. Unregulated minimum risk products, exempt from Environmental Protection Agency registration and often based on botanical oils, are proliferating in the marketplace, but there is concern about their effectiveness to kill and repel ticks. Evaluations of such products are limited in the published literature. A review showed considerable variability among minimum risk products to kill host-seeking blacklegged ticks, with effectiveness similar to chemical pesticide products for some minimum risk products but minimal impact on the ticks for other products. Evaluations of minimum risk tick repellents have typically focused on individual active ingredients rather than formulated products, which often combine multiple active ingredients. Consumers should be aware that effectiveness to kill and repel ticks can differ among unregulated minimum risk products.
Collapse
|
25
|
Tadee P, Chansakaow S, Tipduangta P, Tadee P, Khaodang P, Chukiatsiri K. Essential oil pharmaceuticals for killing ectoparasites on dogs. J Vet Sci 2024; 25:e5. [PMID: 38311320 PMCID: PMC10839170 DOI: 10.4142/jvs.23189] [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: 07/29/2023] [Revised: 11/16/2023] [Accepted: 11/26/2023] [Indexed: 02/07/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND External parasites, particularly ticks and fleas, are among the most common problems affecting dogs. Chemical medicines are commonly used to prevent and eliminate such external parasites, but their improper use can cause adverse reactions, and the toxins they contain may remain in the environment. OBJECTIVES The objective of this study was to investigate the in vitro efficacy of Zanthoxylum limonella, citronella, clove, peppermint, and ginger essential oils against dog ticks and fleas and to test the sensitivity of dogs' skin to these essential oils. METHODS The five essential oils were tested for in vitro efficacy against ticks and fleas, and the two most effective essential oils were then tested on the dogs' skin. RESULTS The results revealed that these five essential oils at 16% concentrations effectively inhibited the spawning of female engorged ticks. In addition, all five essential oils had a strong ability to kill tick larvae at concentrations of 2% upward. Furthermore, 4% concentrations of the five essential oils quickly eliminated fleas, especially clove oil, which killed 100% of fleas within 1 h. A 50%, 90%, and 99% lethal concentration (LC50, LC90, and LC99) for the essential oils on tick larvae in 24 h were found to be low values. LC50, LC90, and LC99 for the essential oils on flea in 1 h was lowest values. Clove oil at 16% concentration was the most satisfactory essential oil for application on dogs' skin, with a low percentage of adverse effects. CONCLUSIONS This study confirmed the effectiveness of essential oils for practical use as tick and flea repellents and eliminators. Essential-oil-based pharmaceutical can replace chemical pesticides and provide benefits for both consumers and the environment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Phacharaporn Tadee
- Faculty of Animal Science and Technology, Maejo University, Chiang Mai 50290, Thailand.
| | - Sunee Chansakaow
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
| | | | - Pakpoom Tadee
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
| | - Pakasinee Khaodang
- Faculty of Animal Science and Technology, Maejo University, Chiang Mai 50290, Thailand
| | - Kridda Chukiatsiri
- Faculty of Animal Science and Technology, Maejo University, Chiang Mai 50290, Thailand
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Rodríguez-Rojas JJ, Hernández-Mariscal TL, Sánchez-Montes S, Fernández-Salas I, Sánchez-Casas RM, Hernández-Escareño JJ. Molecular Evidence of Ehrlichia canis (Rickettsiales: Anaplasmataceae) in Ticks (Ixodida: Ixodidae) Associated with Dogs (Carnivora: Canidae) from Nuevo Leon, Mexico. Vector Borne Zoonotic Dis 2024; 24:10-16. [PMID: 38060712 DOI: 10.1089/vbz.2023.0020] [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: 01/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Background: Ehrlichia canis is transmitted by ticks causing Canine monocytic ehrlichiosis, which is considered one of the most critical tickborne pathogens. Materials and Methods: This study aimed to identify by PCR technique E. canis in ticks associated with dogs from urban and rural homes in Nuevo Leon, Mexico. The study was conducted at 13 localities in eight municipalities from 2012 to 2021. Results: A total of 1873 ticks of three species were captured: Amblyomma tenellum, Dermacentor variabilis, and Rhipicephalus sanguineus s.l. The overall infection rate of E. canis in ticks was 59.12% (149/252). Of the 15 sequences, three haplotypes were identified. Conclusion: The urban transmission cycle of canine ehrlichiosis is demonstrated, where the potential vector is the tick R. sanguineus s.l.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jorge Jesús Rodríguez-Rojas
- Centro de Investigación y Desarrollo en Ciencias de la Salud, Unidad de Patógenos y Vectores, Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León, Monterrey, México
| | | | - Sokani Sánchez-Montes
- Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas y Agropecuarias región Tuxpan, Universidad Veracruzana, Veracruz, México
- Centro de Medicina Tropical, Facultad de Medicina, Unidad de Investigación en Medicina Experimental, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad de México, México
| | - Ildefonso Fernández-Salas
- Centro de Investigación y Desarrollo en Ciencias de la Salud, Unidad de Patógenos y Vectores, Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León, Monterrey, México
- Laboratorio de Entomología Médica, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León, Monterrey, México
| | - Rosa María Sánchez-Casas
- Centro de Investigación y Desarrollo en Ciencias de la Salud, Unidad de Patógenos y Vectores, Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León, Monterrey, México
- Facultad de Medicina Veterinaria y Zootecnia, Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León, General Escobedo, México
| | | |
Collapse
|
27
|
Melo SMP, Santos IR, Almeida BA, Sonne L, Panziera W, Driemeier D, Pavarini SP. Characterization of cutaneous lesions caused by natural tick infestation in cattle. Vet Pathol 2023:3009858231217207. [PMID: 38146917 DOI: 10.1177/03009858231217207] [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: 12/27/2023]
Abstract
Although tick infestation is a significant health problem in livestock, there are limited studies on the dermatopathological aspects of natural tick infestation in cattle. This study aimed to describe the gross and histologic aspects of cutaneous lesions caused by tick infestation in cattle. Thirteen cases were selected based on necropsy data from a 10-year retrospective study. Predispositions were observed in beef cattle (P = .049) and the Angus breed (P = .012), and lesions occurred mainly in the fall (P = .007). Gross lesions included hypotrichosis (13/13; 100%), scales (12/13; 92%), alopecia (11/13; 85%), ulcers (7/13; 54%), crusts (7/13; 54%), and erosions (2/13; 15%). These gross lesions were mainly located in the thorax (12/13; 92%), head (11/13; 85%), abdomen (10/13; 77%), neck (9/13; 69%), limbs (9/13; 69%), and perineum (9/13; 69%). Histologically, all cases had ticks adhered to the epidermis with erosions (13/13; 100%), ulcers (11/13; 85%), orthokeratotic hyperkeratosis (13/13; 100%), irregular acanthosis (13/13; 100%), intraepidermal pustules (13/13; 100%), crusts (10/13; 77%), and ballooning degeneration (4/13; 31%). In the dermis, just below the tick insertion site, there was coagulation necrosis, fibrin deposition, and inflammatory infiltrate composed of mixed cells (neutrophils, lymphocytes, plasma cells, macrophages, and few eosinophils) (9/13; 69%), neutrophils (3/13; 23%), or eosinophils (1/13; 8%). This study reinforces the different patterns of cutaneous lesions caused by tick infestation in cattle, which should be considered as a potential cause of dermatitis in this species.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Igor R Santos
- Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Bruno A Almeida
- Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Luciana Sonne
- Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Welden Panziera
- Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - David Driemeier
- Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | | |
Collapse
|
28
|
Siegel EL, Xu G, Li AY, Pearson P, D’hers S, Elman N, Mather TN, Rich SM. Ixodes scapularis Is the Most Susceptible of the Three Canonical Human-Biting Tick Species of North America to Repellent and Acaricidal Effects of the Natural Sesquiterpene, (+)-Nootkatone. Insects 2023; 15:8. [PMID: 38249014 PMCID: PMC10816182 DOI: 10.3390/insects15010008] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2023] [Revised: 12/18/2023] [Accepted: 12/20/2023] [Indexed: 01/23/2024]
Abstract
Ticks are vectors of many human and animal zoonotic disease-causing agents causing significant global health and economic strain. Repellents and acaricides are integral to the human capacity for personal protection from tick bites. Nootkatone, a naturally occurring sesquiterpene found in the Alaskan cedar tree, grapefruit, and other sources, has been documented to be a potent acaricide. Research has also noted repellent effects against some tick species. In this study, our aim was to investigate the effect of synthetic, high-purity (+)-nootkatone on adult Ixodes scapularis, Dermacentor variabilis, and Amblyomma americanum ticks in an in vitro, vertical filter paper bioassay. (+)-nootkatone showed compelling tick repellency, but median effective concentrations (EC50) significantly differed among species. Ixodes scapularis were repelled at very low concentrations (EC50 = 0.87 ± 0.05 µg/cm2). Higher concentrations were required to repel D. variabilis (EC50 = 252 ± 12 µg/cm2) and A. americanum (EC50 = 2313 ± 179 µg/cm2). Significant post-exposure mortality, assessed 24 h after repellency trials, was also observed in I. scapularis but was absent entirely in D. variabilis and A. americanum. These tests demonstrate that nootkatone has a promising dual-action personal protection capacity against adult I. scapularis ticks, warranting further investigation in more natural environments and in the presence of host cues.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Eric L. Siegel
- Laboratory of Medical Zoology, Department of Microbiology, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, MA 01003, USA; (E.L.S.); (P.P.)
| | - Guang Xu
- Laboratory of Medical Zoology, Department of Microbiology, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, MA 01003, USA; (E.L.S.); (P.P.)
| | - Andrew Y. Li
- United States Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Research Service, Invasive Insect Biocontrol and Behavior Laboratory, Beltsville, MD 20704, USA;
| | - Patrick Pearson
- Laboratory of Medical Zoology, Department of Microbiology, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, MA 01003, USA; (E.L.S.); (P.P.)
| | - Sebastián D’hers
- Computational Mechanics Center, Instituto Tecnológico de Buenos Aires (ITBA), Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires C1106ACD, Argentina;
| | - Noel Elman
- GearJump Technologies, Limited Liability Company, Brookline, MA 02446, USA;
| | - Thomas N. Mather
- Center for Vector-Borne Disease, University of Rhode Island, Kingston, RI 02881, USA;
| | - Stephen M. Rich
- Laboratory of Medical Zoology, Department of Microbiology, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, MA 01003, USA; (E.L.S.); (P.P.)
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Nam HK, Min KD, Jo S, Cho SI. Association of Deforestation With Severe Fever With Thrombocytopenia Syndrome. J Infect Dis 2023; 228:1730-1738. [PMID: 37265042 PMCID: PMC10733741 DOI: 10.1093/infdis/jiad196] [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: 01/01/2023] [Revised: 05/08/2023] [Accepted: 06/01/2023] [Indexed: 06/03/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Severe fever with thrombocytopenia syndrome (SFTS) virus was first isolated in China in 2009 and has since spread to several Asian countries. SFTS is closely related to environmental factors that accelerate vector growth. We evaluated the associations of SFTS and deforestation with environmental variables. METHODS For this observational study, we generated multiple Poisson models using national SFTS outbreak data (2013-2018) and official environmental data for Korea. We included established risk factors as variables. Deforestation was used as the main variable. All variables were analyzed according to their spatial characteristics using the R-INLA package. RESULTS SFTS cases increased over time and peaked in 2017, at 272, followed by a decrease in 2018. Disease mapping showed a high incidence of SFTS nationwide, with particular risks in Gangwon and Gyeonggi Provinces in the north, and Jeju in the south of South Korea. Deforestation was significantly associated with a higher risk of SFTS in the final model (relative risk, 1.751 [95% confidence interval, 1.125-2.743]). CONCLUSIONS SFTS outbreaks are associated with deforestation. Therefore, deforestation in Gyeonggi, Gangwon, and Jeju provinces of South Korea needs to be considered in vector-control strategies and active surveillance of SFTS occurrence.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hee-kyoung Nam
- Department of Public Health Science, Graduate School of Public Health, Seoul National University
| | - Kyung-Duk Min
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Chungbuk National University
| | - Suyoung Jo
- Department of Public Health Science, Graduate School of Public Health, Seoul National University
| | - Sung-il Cho
- Department of Public Health Science, Graduate School of Public Health, Seoul National University
- Institute of Health and Environment, Seoul National University, Republic of Korea
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Majid A, Almutairi MM, Alouffi A, Tanaka T, Yen TY, Tsai KH, Ali A. First report of spotted fever group Rickettsia aeschlimannii in Hyalomma turanicum, Haemaphysalis bispinosa, and Haemaphysalis montgomeryi infesting domestic animals: updates on the epidemiology of tick-borne Rickettsia aeschlimannii. Front Microbiol 2023; 14:1283814. [PMID: 38163073 PMCID: PMC10756324 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2023.1283814] [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] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2023] [Accepted: 11/13/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024] Open
Abstract
Tick-borne Rickettsia spp. have long been known as causative agents for zoonotic diseases. We have previously characterized Rickettsia spp. in different ticks infesting a broad range of hosts in Pakistan; however, knowledge regarding Rickettsia aeschlimannii in Haemaphysalis and Hyalomma ticks is missing. This study aimed to obtain a better understanding about R. aeschlimannii in Pakistan and update the knowledge about its worldwide epidemiology. Among 369 examined domestic animals, 247 (66%) were infested by 872 ticks. Collected ticks were morphologically delineated into three genera, namely, Rhipicephalus, Hyalomma, and Haemaphysalis. Adult females were the most prevalent (number ₌ 376, 43.1%), followed by nymphs (303, 34.74%) and males (193, 22.13%). Overall, genomic DNA samples of 223 tick were isolated and screened for Rickettsia spp. by the amplification of rickettsial gltA, ompA, and ompB partial genes using conventional PCR. Rickettsial DNA was detected in 8 of 223 (3.58%) ticks including nymphs (5 of 122, 4.0%) and adult females (3 of 86, 3.48%). The rickettsial gltA, ompA, and ompB sequences were detected in Hyalomma turanicum (2 nymphs and 1 adult female), Haemaphysalis bispinosa (1 nymph and 1 adult female), and Haemaphysalis montgomeryi (2 nymphs and 1 adult female). These rickettsial sequences showed 99.71-100% identity with R. aeschlimannii and phylogenetically clustered with the same species. None of the tested Rhipicephalus microplus, Hyalomma isaaci, Hyalomma scupense, Rhipicephalus turanicus, Hyalomma anatolicum, Rhipicephalus haemaphysaloides, Rhipicephalus sanguineus, Haemaphysalis cornupunctata, and Haemaphysalis sulcata ticks were found positive for rickettsial DNA. Comprehensive surveillance studies should be adopted to update the knowledge regarding tick-borne zoonotic Rickettsia species, evaluate their risks to humans and livestock, and investigate the unexamined cases of illness after tick bite among livestock holders in the country.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Abdul Majid
- Department of Zoology, Abdul Wali Khan University Mardan, Mardan, Pakistan
| | - Mashal M. Almutairi
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abdulaziz Alouffi
- King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Tetsuya Tanaka
- Laboratory of Infectious Diseases, Joint Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kagoshima University, Kagoshima, Japan
| | - Tsai-Ying Yen
- Department of Public Health, Institute of Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, College of Public Health, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Kun-Hsien Tsai
- Department of Public Health, Institute of Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, College of Public Health, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Abid Ali
- Department of Zoology, Abdul Wali Khan University Mardan, Mardan, Pakistan
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Aljasham AT, Damra EM, Alkahtani NS, Alouffi A, Al Salem WS, Alshabanah AO, Alotaibi M, Tanaka T, Ali A, Almutairi MM. Isolation, identification and antimicrobial susceptibility of the bacteria isolated from Hyalomma dromedarii infesting camels in Al-Jouf province, Saudi Arabia. Front Vet Sci 2023; 10:1227908. [PMID: 38155762 PMCID: PMC10752931 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2023.1227908] [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] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2023] [Accepted: 11/20/2023] [Indexed: 12/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Ticks are important ectoparasites that transmit various pathogens causing morbidity and mortality in humans and animals. Saudi Arabia faces several challenges that can contribute to the emergence and spread of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) bacteria. These challenges require collaborative efforts to successfully achieve significant control of AMR in the country. The present study aims to isolate bacteria from camels' tick Hyalomma dromedarii in Al-Jouf province to identify and determine these isolates' antimicrobial susceptibilities. Forty-nine ticks were collected from dromedary camels and morphologically classified as H. dromedarii. Ticks were then homogenized and plated individually, which resulted in the isolation of 55 bacteria. The results showed that the bacterial isolates belong to 20 different species. About 71% (n = 39) of the total isolates were identified as Gram-positive bacteria comprised of 11 different species, while 29% (n = 16) of the total isolates were Gram-negative bacteria comprised of 9 different species. The most prevalent isolate within the total samples was Staphylococcus lentus (22.45%, 11/49), followed by Staphylococcus pseudintermedius (18.37%, 9/49) and Sphingomonas paucimobilis (16.33% 8/49). The antimicrobial susceptibility profile of Gram-positive bacteria showed that 100% (n = 31) were resistant to benzylpenicillin; 90.3% (n = 28) were resistant to oxacillin; 58.1% (n = 18) were resistant to clindamycin; 48.4% (n = 15) were resistant to vancomycin. In addition, 32.3% (n = 10) were resistant to trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole and rifampicin; 25.8% (n = 8) were resistant to erythromycin; 16.1% (n = 5) were resistant to teicoplanin; 6.5% (n = 2) were resistant to tetracycline. All Gram-positive bacteria were 100% susceptible to linezolid, gentamicin, tobramycin, levofloxacin, moxifloxacin, tigecycline, and nitrofurantoin. In antimicrobial susceptibility tests for the Gram-negative bacteria, 57.14% (n = 8) of the identified bacteria were resistant to ampicillin, whereas 50% (n = 7) were resistant to cefoxitin and ceftazidime. About 28.57% (n = 4) of the Gram-negative bacteria were resistant to ceftriaxone, trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole. In addition, 21.43% (n = 3) were resistant to amoxicillin/clavulanic acid and cephalothin; 14.29% (n = 2) were resistant to cefepime and nitrofurantoin; 7.14% (n = 1) were resistant to piperacillin/tazobactam and tigecycline. However, all Gram-negative bacteria were susceptible to other examined antimicrobials. This is the first study that investigates the role of the hard tick as a potential reservoir for AMR pathogens within our region.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alanoud T. Aljasham
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Eman M. Damra
- Department of Agriculture, Ministry of Environment, Water, and Agriculture, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Nora S. Alkahtani
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abdulaziz Alouffi
- King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Waleed S. Al Salem
- Department of Agriculture, Ministry of Environment, Water, and Agriculture, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Aljoharah O. Alshabanah
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Moureq Alotaibi
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Tetsuya Tanaka
- Laboratory of Infectious Diseases, Joint Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kagoshima University, Kagoshima, Japan
| | - Abid Ali
- Department of Zoology, Abdul Wali Khan University Mardan, Mardan, Pakistan
| | - Mashal M. Almutairi
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Banović P, Mijatović D, Bogdan I, Simin V, Meletis E, Kostoulas P, Resman Rus K, Knap N, Korva M, Avšič-Županc T, Cabezas-Cruz A. Evidence of tick-borne encephalitis virus neutralizing antibodies in Serbian individuals exposed to tick bites. Front Microbiol 2023; 14:1314538. [PMID: 38156013 PMCID: PMC10754514 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2023.1314538] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2023] [Accepted: 11/14/2023] [Indexed: 12/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) is an emerging vector-borne and food-borne disease caused by the tick-borne encephalitis virus (TBEV; Orthoflavivirus encephalitidis), with a distribution spanning the Eurasian continent. Despite its significant public health impact in various European regions, TBE remains largely underdiagnosed in Serbia due to limited awareness and diagnostic challenges. In response to this, our study aimed to comprehensively assess TBEV exposure in individuals infested with ticks and to identify potential TBEV foci within Serbia. Materials and methods From 2019 to 2021, we conducted an observational study involving 450 patients who reported tick infestations. Results Our demographic analysis revealed a median age of 38 years, with a slight male predominance among the participants. We documented tick infestations in 38 municipalities across 14 districts of Serbia, with a notable concentration in proximity to Fruška Gora Mountain. The ticks most frequently removed were Ixodes ricinus, with nymphs and adult females being the predominant stages. On average, nymphs were removed after about 27.1 hours of feeding, while adult females remained attached for approximately 44.4 hours. Notably, we found age as a significant predictor of infestation time for both nymphs and adult females. Furthermore, we detected TBEV-neutralizing antibodies in 0.66% of the serum samples, shedding light on potential TBEV foci, particularly in Fruška Gora Mountain and other regions of Serbia. Conclusion Our study emphasizes the urgent need for active TBE surveillance programs, especially in areas suspected of hosting TBEV foci, in order to assess the true TBE burden, identify at-risk populations, and implement effective preventive measures.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Pavle Banović
- Clinic for Lyme Borreliosis and Other Tick-Borne Diseases, Pasteur Institute Novi Sad, Novi Sad, Serbia
- Department of Microbiology with Parasitology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine in Novi Sad, University of Novi Sad, Novi Sad, Serbia
| | - Dragana Mijatović
- Department for Research and Monitoring of Rabies and Other Zoonoses, Pasteur Institute Novi Sad, Novi Sad, Serbia
| | - Ivana Bogdan
- Department of Microbiology, Pasteur Institute Novi Sad, Novi Sad, Serbia
| | - Verica Simin
- Department of Microbiology, Pasteur Institute Novi Sad, Novi Sad, Serbia
| | - Eleftherios Meletis
- Faculty of Public and One Health, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, Karditsa, Greece
| | - Polychronis Kostoulas
- Faculty of Public and One Health, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, Karditsa, Greece
| | - Katarina Resman Rus
- Institute of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Nataša Knap
- Institute of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Miša Korva
- Institute of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Tatjana Avšič-Županc
- Institute of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Alejandro Cabezas-Cruz
- Anses, INRAE, Ecole Nationale Vétérinaire d’Alfort, UMR BIPAR, Laboratoire de Santé Animale, Maisons-Alfort, France
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Addo SO, Bentil RE, Baako BOA, Addae CA, Behene E, Asoala V, Mate S, Oduro D, Dunford JC, Larbi JA, Baidoo PK, Wilson MD, Diclaro JW, Dadzie SK. First record of Babesia and Theileria parasites in ticks from Kassena-Nankana, Ghana. Med Vet Entomol 2023; 37:878-882. [PMID: 37589253 DOI: 10.1111/mve.12688] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2022] [Accepted: 08/01/2023] [Indexed: 08/18/2023]
Abstract
Ticks are efficient vectors for transmitting pathogens that negatively affect livestock production and pose a risk to public health. In this study, Babesia and Theileria species were identified in ticks collected from cattle, sheep and goats from the Kassena-Nankana Districts of Ghana between February and December 2020. A total of 1550 ticks were collected, morphologically identified, pooled and screened for pathogens using primers that amplify a 560 bp fragment of the ssrRNA gene and Sanger sequencing. Amblyomma variegatum (62.98%) was the predominant tick species. From the 491 tick pools screened, 12/15 (2.44%) positive pools were successfully sequenced. The pathogen DNA identified were Theileria ovis in eight (15.38%) pools of Rhipicephalus evertsi evertsi, Theileria velifera in two (0.78%) pools of A. variegatum and Babesia occultans and Babesia sp. Xinjiang in one (1.72%) pool each of Hyalomma truncatum. It was further observed that T. ovis occurred in ticks collected from only sheep (p < 0.001) which were females (p = 0.023) and < =1 year old (p = 0.040). This study reports the first identification of these pathogens in ticks within Kassena-Nankana. With the constant trade of livestock, there is a need for effective tick control measures to prevent infection spread.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Seth Offei Addo
- Parasitology Department, Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research, College of Health Sciences, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
- Department of Theoretical and Applied Biology, College of Science, KNUST, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Ronald Essah Bentil
- Parasitology Department, Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research, College of Health Sciences, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
| | | | - Charlotte Adwoa Addae
- Parasitology Department, Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research, College of Health Sciences, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
| | - Eric Behene
- Parasitology Department, Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research, College of Health Sciences, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
| | | | - Suzanne Mate
- U.S. Army Emerging Infectious Diseases Branch, Walter Reed Army Institute of Research, Silver Spring, Maryland, USA
| | - Daniel Oduro
- Department of Animal Biology and Conservation Science, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
- Immunology Department, Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research, College of Health Sciences, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
| | - James C Dunford
- Navy Entomology Center of Excellence, Jacksonville, Florida, USA
- Uniformed Services University of Health Sciences, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - John Asiedu Larbi
- Department of Theoretical and Applied Biology, College of Science, KNUST, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Philip Kweku Baidoo
- Department of Theoretical and Applied Biology, College of Science, KNUST, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Michael David Wilson
- Parasitology Department, Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research, College of Health Sciences, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
| | - Joseph W Diclaro
- Navy Entomology Center of Excellence, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Detachment, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Samuel K Dadzie
- Parasitology Department, Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research, College of Health Sciences, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Enferadi A, Ownagh A, Tavassoli M. Molecular Detection of Borrelia spp. in Ticks of Sheep and Goats by Nested PCR Method in West Azerbaijan Province, Iran. Vector Borne Zoonotic Dis 2023; 23:605-614. [PMID: 37722020 DOI: 10.1089/vbz.2023.0039] [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: 09/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Ticks are an important vector among arthropods associated with serious medical and veterinary problems. In this research, we investigate Borrelia species in ticks isolated from the surface of livestock (sheep and goat) in different regions of West Azerbaijan province. Materials and Methods: Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was performed using specific primers targeting Borrelia spp. genes. Borrelia spp. was identified through PCR. The positive PCR products were sent to Pishgam Company for sequencing. Sequenced data were analyzed, and phylogenetic analysis was performed using maximum likelihood method in MEGA V.10. Results: The detection rate of Borrelia spp. for 16srRNA gene 69 (n = 542; 12.7%; 95%Cl: 10.1%-15.8%), 42 (n = 542; 7.7%; 95%Cl: 5.78%-10.1%) positive on 5S-23SrRNA gene and ospA gene 4 (n = 542; 0.74%; 95%Cl: 0.29%-1.88%). Conclusion: These results are the first report in Iran to identify Borrelia spp. These results of the study showed that the Borrelia spp. in hard ticks detected by PCR and it was negative to soft ticks. it is important in public health implications at the studied areas.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ahmad Enferadi
- Department of Microbiology and Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Urmia University, Urmia, Iran
| | - Abdolghaffar Ownagh
- Department of Microbiology and Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Urmia University, Urmia, Iran
| | - Mousa Tavassoli
- Department of Pathobiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Urmia University, Urmia, Iran
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Santos IS, Tavares CP, Klafke GM, Reck J, Monteiro CMO, Prata MCA, Golo PS, Silva AC, Costa-Junior LM. Automatic method based on deep learning to identify and account Rhipicephalus microplus larval hatching. Med Vet Entomol 2023; 37:665-674. [PMID: 37183718 DOI: 10.1111/mve.12664] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2022] [Accepted: 04/26/2023] [Indexed: 05/16/2023]
Abstract
Reports of Rhipicephalus microplus resistant populations worldwide have increased extensively, making it difficult to control this ectoparasite. The adult immersion test, commonly used to screen for acaricide resistance, produces the results only after 40 days of the tick collection because it needs the eggs to be laid and larvae to hatch. The present study aims to develop an automatic method, based on deep learning, to predict the hatching of R. microplus larva based on egg morphology. Initially, the time course of embryonic development of tick eggs was performed to discriminate between viable and non-viable eggs. Secondly, using artificial intelligence deep learning techniques, a method was developed to classify and count the eggs. The larval hatching rate of three populations of R. microplus was evaluated for the software validation process. Groups of three and six images of eggs with 12 days of embryonic development were submitted to the software to predict the larval hatching percent automatically. The results obtained by the software were compared with the prediction results of the hatching percentage performed manually by the specialist and with the results of the hatching percentage of larvae obtained in the biological assay. The group with three images of each population submitted to the software for automatic prediction of the larval hatching percent presented mean values of 96.35% ± 3.33 (Piracanjuba population), 95.98% ± 3.5 (Desterro population) and 0.0% ± 0.0 (Barbalha population). For groups with six images, the values were 94.41% ± 3.84 (Piracanjuba population), 95.93% ± 2.36 (Desterro population) and 0.0% ± 0.0 (Barbalha population). Biological assays showed the following hatching percentage values: 98% ± 1.73 (Piracanjuba population); 96% ± 2.1 (Desterro population); and 0.14% ± 0.25 (Barbalha population). There was no statistical difference between the evaluated methods. The automatic method for predicting the hatching percentage of R. microplus larvae was validated and proved to be effective, with considerable reduction in time to obtain results.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Igor S Santos
- Applied Computing Core, Federal University of Maranhão - UFMA, São Luís, Brazil
| | - Caio P Tavares
- Parasite Control Laboratory, Federal University of Maranhão - UFMA, São Luís, Brazil
| | - Guilherme M Klafke
- Instituto de Pesquisas Veterinárias Desidério Finamor (IPVDF) - Centro de Pesquisa em Saúde Animal, Secretaria da Agricultura, Pecuária e Desenvolvimento Rural, Eldorado do Sul, Brazil
| | - José Reck
- Instituto de Pesquisas Veterinárias Desidério Finamor (IPVDF) - Centro de Pesquisa em Saúde Animal, Secretaria da Agricultura, Pecuária e Desenvolvimento Rural, Eldorado do Sul, Brazil
| | - Caio M O Monteiro
- Departamento de Biociências e Tecnologia do Instituto de Patologia Tropical e Saúde Pública, Universidade Federal de Goiás, Goiânia, Brazil
| | | | - Patrícia S Golo
- Departamento de Parasitologia Animal, Universidade Federal Rural do Rio de Janeiro, Seropédica, Brazil
| | - Aristófanes C Silva
- Applied Computing Core, Federal University of Maranhão - UFMA, São Luís, Brazil
| | - Livio M Costa-Junior
- Parasite Control Laboratory, Federal University of Maranhão - UFMA, São Luís, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Lamsal A, Tryland M, Paulsen KM, Romano JS, Nymo IH, Stiasny K, Soleng A, Vikse R, Andreassen ÅK. Serological screening for tick-borne encephalitis virus in eight Norwegian herds of semi-domesticated reindeer (Rangifer tarandus tarandus). Zoonoses Public Health 2023; 70:692-698. [PMID: 37259822 DOI: 10.1111/zph.13060] [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: 09/07/2022] [Revised: 05/11/2023] [Accepted: 05/14/2023] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
Tick-borne encephalitis virus (TBEV) is found in Ixodes ricinus ticks throughout the area where viable tick populations exist. In Norway, TBEV is found in I. ricinus from the south coast until Brønnøy municipality in Nordland County and the range of the vector is expanding due to changes in climate, vegetation, host animals and environmental conditions. TBEV might thus have the potential to establish in new areas when I. ricinus expand its geographical distribution. At present, there is little knowledge on the status of the virus in high-altitude areas of inland regions in Norway. It has previously been indicated that reindeer may be an important sentinel species and indicator of the spread of ticks and TBEV in high-altitude regions. In this study, 408 semi-domesticated Eurasian tundra reindeer (Rangifer tarandus tarandus) from eight herds, from Tana in Troms and Finnmark County in northern Norway to Filefjell in Innlandet and Viken Counties in southern Norway, were screened for TBEV antibodies using a commercial enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). We found 16 TBEV reactive reindeer samples by ELISA; however, these results could not be confirmed by the serum neutralization test (SNT). This could indicate that a flavivirusand not necessarily TBEV, may be circulating among Norwegian semi-domesticated reindeer. The results also indicate that TBEV was not enzootic in Norwegian semi-domesticated reindeer in 2013-2015. This knowledge is important as an information base for future TBEV and flavivirus surveillance in Norway.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alaka Lamsal
- Department of Virology, Division for Infection Control and Environmental Health, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Oslo, Norway
- Department of Natural Sciences and Environmental Health, Faculty of Technology, Natural Sciences and Maritime Sciences, University of South-Eastern Norway, Campus Bø, Norway
| | - Morten Tryland
- Department of Arctic and Marine Biology, UiT the Arctic University of Norway, Tromsø, Norway
- Department of Forestry and Wildlife Management, Inland Norway University of Applied Sciences, Evenstad, Norway
| | - Katrine M Paulsen
- Department of Virology, Division for Infection Control and Environmental Health, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Oslo, Norway
| | - Javier Sánchez Romano
- Department of Arctic and Marine Biology, UiT the Arctic University of Norway, Tromsø, Norway
- Department of Medical Biology, UiT the Arctic University of Norway, Tromsø, Norway
| | - Ingebjørg H Nymo
- Department of Arctic and Marine Biology, UiT the Arctic University of Norway, Tromsø, Norway
- Section for Food Safety and Animal Health, The Norwegian Veterinary Institute, Tromsø, Norway
| | - Karin Stiasny
- Center for Virology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Arnulf Soleng
- Department of Pest Control, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Oslo, Norway
| | - Rose Vikse
- Department of Virology, Division for Infection Control and Environmental Health, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Oslo, Norway
| | - Åshild K Andreassen
- Department of Virology, Division for Infection Control and Environmental Health, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Oslo, Norway
- Department of Natural Sciences and Environmental Health, Faculty of Technology, Natural Sciences and Maritime Sciences, University of South-Eastern Norway, Campus Bø, Norway
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Šofranková L, Baňas M, Pipová N, Majláth I, Kurimský J, Cimbala R, Pavlík M, Mateos-Hernández L, Šimo L, Majláthová V. Effects of Electromagnetic Radiation on Neuropeptide Transcript Levels in the Synganglion of Ixodes ricinus. Pathogens 2023; 12:1398. [PMID: 38133283 PMCID: PMC10747470 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens12121398] [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: 09/21/2023] [Revised: 11/06/2023] [Accepted: 11/21/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Anthropogenic electromagnetic radiation is an important environmental factor affecting the functionality of biological systems. Sensitivity to various frequencies of electromagnetic radiation has been detected in ixodid ticks in the past. However, the physiological aspects of radiation effects have not yet been studied in ticks. In the presented experiment, 360 Ixodes ricinus ticks, 180 males and 180 females, were divided into 16 irradiated and 8 control groups. The irradiated groups were exposed to two different intensities of electromagnetic radiation with a frequency of 900 MHz at different lengths of exposure time. RT-PCR was utilized to determine the changes in mRNA levels in tick synganglia after irradiation. Four randomly selected neuropeptide genes were tested-allatotropin (at), FGLa-related allatostatins (fgla/ast), kinin, and arginine-vasopressin-like peptide (avpl). A significant decrease in transcript levels in all female groups exposed to higher intensity radiofrequency radiation for 1 to 3 h was found. After one hour of radiofrequency exposure, a significant downregulation in allatotropin expression in males was detected. A consistent downregulation of the at gene was detected in males irradiated with at a higher intensity. Unfortunately, the specific functions of the studied neuropeptides in ticks are not known yet, so a more comprehensive study is necessary to describe the effects of EMF on observed neuropeptides. This study represents the first report on the effects of the abiotic environment on tick neurophysiology.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lívia Šofranková
- Department of Animal Physiology, Pavol Jozef Šafárik University in Košice, Šrobárova 2, 04180 Košice, Slovakia; (L.Š.); (M.B.); (N.P.); (I.M.)
| | - Miroslav Baňas
- Department of Animal Physiology, Pavol Jozef Šafárik University in Košice, Šrobárova 2, 04180 Košice, Slovakia; (L.Š.); (M.B.); (N.P.); (I.M.)
| | - Natália Pipová
- Department of Animal Physiology, Pavol Jozef Šafárik University in Košice, Šrobárova 2, 04180 Košice, Slovakia; (L.Š.); (M.B.); (N.P.); (I.M.)
| | - Igor Majláth
- Department of Animal Physiology, Pavol Jozef Šafárik University in Košice, Šrobárova 2, 04180 Košice, Slovakia; (L.Š.); (M.B.); (N.P.); (I.M.)
| | - Juraj Kurimský
- Department of Electrical Power Engineering, Faculty of Electrical Engeneering and Informatics, Technical University of Košice, Mäsiarska 74, 04120 Košice, Slovakia; (J.K.); (R.C.); (M.P.)
| | - Roman Cimbala
- Department of Electrical Power Engineering, Faculty of Electrical Engeneering and Informatics, Technical University of Košice, Mäsiarska 74, 04120 Košice, Slovakia; (J.K.); (R.C.); (M.P.)
| | - Marek Pavlík
- Department of Electrical Power Engineering, Faculty of Electrical Engeneering and Informatics, Technical University of Košice, Mäsiarska 74, 04120 Košice, Slovakia; (J.K.); (R.C.); (M.P.)
| | - Lourdes Mateos-Hernández
- Laboratoire de Santé Animale, Unitè Mixte de Recherche de Biologie Molèculaire et d’Immunologie Parasitaires (UMR BIPAR), Ecole Nationale Vétérinaire d’Alfort, INRAE, ANSES, F-94700 Maisons-Alfort, France; (L.M.-H.); (L.Š.)
| | - Ladislav Šimo
- Laboratoire de Santé Animale, Unitè Mixte de Recherche de Biologie Molèculaire et d’Immunologie Parasitaires (UMR BIPAR), Ecole Nationale Vétérinaire d’Alfort, INRAE, ANSES, F-94700 Maisons-Alfort, France; (L.M.-H.); (L.Š.)
| | - Viktória Majláthová
- Department of Animal Physiology, Pavol Jozef Šafárik University in Košice, Šrobárova 2, 04180 Košice, Slovakia; (L.Š.); (M.B.); (N.P.); (I.M.)
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Koc S, Gultekin ZN, Kahraman S, Cengiz A, Polat B, Caliskan C, Yildirim T, Tufan-Cetin O, Cetin H. Exploring the Larvicidal and Repellent Potential of Taurus Cedar ( Cedrus libani) Tar against the Brown Dog Tick ( Rhipicephalus sanguineus sensu lato). Molecules 2023; 28:7689. [PMID: 38067421 PMCID: PMC10707419 DOI: 10.3390/molecules28237689] [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] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2023] [Revised: 11/19/2023] [Accepted: 11/20/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
This study investigated the potential acaricidal and repellent effects of tar obtained from the Lebanon cedar (Cedrus libani A. Rich.) against the brown dog tick species Rhipicephalus sanguineus sensu lato Latreille (Acari: Ixodidae). The goal was to find an alternative, safe, and effective way to eliminate ticks. Tar is traditionally extracted from cedar trees in the Antalya region of Türkiye. The composition of the tar is primarily characterized by a diverse mixture of terpenes, with β-himachalene (29.16%), α-atlantone (28.7%), ar-turmerone (8.82%), longifolene-(V4) (6.66%), α-himachalene (5.28%), and β-turmerone (5.12%) emerging as the predominant constituents. The toxic effects of tar on tick larvae were studied through larval immersion tests (LIT), and its repellent activity was evaluated using a new larval repellent activity test (LRAT). The results revealed significant acaricidal effects, with mortality rates of 77.7% and 82.2% for the Konyaalti and Kepez strains of the brown dog tick, respectively, in response to a 1% concentration of tar. LC50 and LC90 values were determined as 0.47% and 1.52% for the Kepez strain and 0.58% and 1.63% for the Konyaalti strain, respectively. When comparing the repellent effect of tar to the widely used synthetic repellent DEET, repellency rates of up to 100% were observed. As a result, this study establishes, for the first time, the larvicidal and repellent effects of C. libani tar on ticks.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Samed Koc
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Akdeniz University, Antalya 07070, Türkiye; (Z.N.G.)
- Laboratory Animals Application and Research Centre, Akdeniz University, Antalya 07070, Türkiye
| | - Zeynep Nur Gultekin
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Akdeniz University, Antalya 07070, Türkiye; (Z.N.G.)
| | - Sevval Kahraman
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Akdeniz University, Antalya 07070, Türkiye; (Z.N.G.)
| | - Aysegul Cengiz
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Akdeniz University, Antalya 07070, Türkiye; (Z.N.G.)
| | - Burak Polat
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Akdeniz University, Antalya 07070, Türkiye; (Z.N.G.)
| | - Cansu Caliskan
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Akdeniz University, Antalya 07070, Türkiye; (Z.N.G.)
| | - Tolga Yildirim
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Akdeniz University, Antalya 07070, Türkiye; (Z.N.G.)
| | - Ozge Tufan-Cetin
- Department of Environmental Protection Technology, Vocational School of Technical Sciences, Akdeniz University, Antalya 07070, Türkiye;
| | - Huseyin Cetin
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Akdeniz University, Antalya 07070, Türkiye; (Z.N.G.)
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
El Ghassem A, Abdoullah B, Deida J, Ould Lemrabott MA, Ouldabdallahi Moukah M, Ould Ahmedou Salem MS, Briolant S, Basco LK, Ould Brahim K, Ould Mohamed Salem Boukhary A. Arthropod-Borne Viruses in Mauritania: A Literature Review. Pathogens 2023; 12:1370. [PMID: 38003834 PMCID: PMC10675338 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens12111370] [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: 10/20/2023] [Revised: 11/13/2023] [Accepted: 11/16/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
During the past four decades, recurrent outbreaks of various arthropod-borne viruses have been reported in Mauritania. This review aims to consolidate the current knowledge on the epidemiology of the major arboviruses circulating in Mauritania. Online databases including PubMed and Web of Science were used to retrieve relevant published studies. The results showed that numerous arboviral outbreaks of variable magnitude occurred in almost all 13 regions of Mauritania, with Rift Valley fever (RVF), Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever (CCHF), and dengue (DEN) being the most common infections. Other arboviruses causing yellow fever (YF), chikungunya (CHIK), o'nyong-nyong (ONN), Semliki Forest (SF), West Nile fever (WNF), Bagaza (BAG), Wesselsbron (WSL), and Ngari (NRI) diseases have also been found circulating in humans and/or livestock in Mauritania. The average case fatality rates of CCHF and RVF were 28.7% and 21.1%, respectively. RVF outbreaks have often occurred after unusually heavy rainfalls, while CCHF epidemics have mostly been reported during the dry season. The central and southeastern regions of the country have carried the highest burden of RVF and CCHF. Sheep, cattle, and camels are the main animal reservoirs for the RVF and CCHF viruses. Culex antennatus and Cx. poicilipes mosquitoes and Hyalomma dromedarii, H. rufipes, and Rhipicephalus everesti ticks are the main vectors of these viruses. DEN outbreaks occurred mainly in the urban settings, including in Nouakchott, the capital city, and Aedes aegypti is likely the main mosquito vector. Therefore, there is a need to implement an integrated management strategy for the prevention and control of arboviral diseases based on sensitizing the high-risk occupational groups, such as slaughterhouse workers, shepherds, and butchers for zoonotic diseases, reinforcing vector surveillance and control, introducing rapid point-of-care diagnosis of arboviruses in high-risk areas, and improving the capacities to respond rapidly when the first signs of disease outbreak are identified.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Abdallahi El Ghassem
- Unité de Recherche Génomes et Milieux, Faculté des Sciences et Techniques, Université de Nouakchott, Nouakchott BP 880, Mauritania; (A.E.G.); (B.A.); (J.D.); (M.A.O.L.); (M.O.M.); (M.S.O.A.S.); (K.O.B.)
| | - Bedia Abdoullah
- Unité de Recherche Génomes et Milieux, Faculté des Sciences et Techniques, Université de Nouakchott, Nouakchott BP 880, Mauritania; (A.E.G.); (B.A.); (J.D.); (M.A.O.L.); (M.O.M.); (M.S.O.A.S.); (K.O.B.)
| | - Jemila Deida
- Unité de Recherche Génomes et Milieux, Faculté des Sciences et Techniques, Université de Nouakchott, Nouakchott BP 880, Mauritania; (A.E.G.); (B.A.); (J.D.); (M.A.O.L.); (M.O.M.); (M.S.O.A.S.); (K.O.B.)
| | - Mohamed Aly Ould Lemrabott
- Unité de Recherche Génomes et Milieux, Faculté des Sciences et Techniques, Université de Nouakchott, Nouakchott BP 880, Mauritania; (A.E.G.); (B.A.); (J.D.); (M.A.O.L.); (M.O.M.); (M.S.O.A.S.); (K.O.B.)
| | - Mohamed Ouldabdallahi Moukah
- Unité de Recherche Génomes et Milieux, Faculté des Sciences et Techniques, Université de Nouakchott, Nouakchott BP 880, Mauritania; (A.E.G.); (B.A.); (J.D.); (M.A.O.L.); (M.O.M.); (M.S.O.A.S.); (K.O.B.)
| | - Mohamed Salem Ould Ahmedou Salem
- Unité de Recherche Génomes et Milieux, Faculté des Sciences et Techniques, Université de Nouakchott, Nouakchott BP 880, Mauritania; (A.E.G.); (B.A.); (J.D.); (M.A.O.L.); (M.O.M.); (M.S.O.A.S.); (K.O.B.)
| | - Sébastien Briolant
- Unité de Parasitologie Entomologie, Département de Microbiologie et Maladies Infectieuses, Institut de Recherche Biomédicale des Armées (IRBA), 13005 Marseille, France;
- Institut de Recherche pour le Développement (IRD), Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Marseille (AP-HM), Service de Santé des Armées (SSA), Vecteurs—Infections Tropicales et Méditerranéennes (VITROME), Aix Marseille Université, 13005 Marseille, France;
- Institut Hospitalo-Universitaire (IHU)-Méditerranée Infection, 13005 Marseille, France
| | - Leonardo K. Basco
- Institut de Recherche pour le Développement (IRD), Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Marseille (AP-HM), Service de Santé des Armées (SSA), Vecteurs—Infections Tropicales et Méditerranéennes (VITROME), Aix Marseille Université, 13005 Marseille, France;
- Institut Hospitalo-Universitaire (IHU)-Méditerranée Infection, 13005 Marseille, France
| | - Khyarhoum Ould Brahim
- Unité de Recherche Génomes et Milieux, Faculté des Sciences et Techniques, Université de Nouakchott, Nouakchott BP 880, Mauritania; (A.E.G.); (B.A.); (J.D.); (M.A.O.L.); (M.O.M.); (M.S.O.A.S.); (K.O.B.)
| | - Ali Ould Mohamed Salem Boukhary
- Unité de Recherche Génomes et Milieux, Faculté des Sciences et Techniques, Université de Nouakchott, Nouakchott BP 880, Mauritania; (A.E.G.); (B.A.); (J.D.); (M.A.O.L.); (M.O.M.); (M.S.O.A.S.); (K.O.B.)
- Institut de Recherche pour le Développement (IRD), Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Marseille (AP-HM), Service de Santé des Armées (SSA), Vecteurs—Infections Tropicales et Méditerranéennes (VITROME), Aix Marseille Université, 13005 Marseille, France;
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
Santos VS, Siqueira TS, Silva JRS. Temporal trends and spatial distribution of Brazilian spotted fever in Brazil. J Travel Med 2023; 30:taad116. [PMID: 37684722 DOI: 10.1093/jtm/taad116] [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] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2023] [Revised: 08/15/2023] [Accepted: 08/18/2023] [Indexed: 09/10/2023]
Abstract
Brazilian Spotted Fever (BSF) is a severe tick-borne disease in Brazil’s south and southeast regions. We examined temporal trends and spatial distribution of BSF cases and deaths. There were stable incidence and mortality rates, decreasing case fatality, and distinct spatial clusters, highlighting the need for ongoing surveillance and prevention efforts.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Victor S Santos
- Department of Medicine, Federal University of Sergipe, Lagarto 49400-000, Brazil
- Applied Health Sciences Graduate Program, Federal University of Sergipe, Lagarto 49400-000, Brazil
- Health Sciences Graduate Program, Federal University of Sergipe, Aracaju 49060-676, Brazil
| | - Thayane S Siqueira
- Health Sciences Graduate Program, Federal University of Sergipe, Aracaju 49060-676, Brazil
| | - José R S Silva
- Department of Statistics and Actuarial Sciences, Federal University of Sergipe, Aracaju 49107-230, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
41
|
Rodríguez-Mallon A, Encinosa Guzmán PE, Bello Y, Domingos A, Antunes S, Kopacek P, Santos AS, Velez R, Perner J, Ledesma Bravo FL, Frantova H, Erhart J, Rodríguez R, Fuentes A, Diago D, Joglar M, Méndez L, Estrada MP. Efficacy of the Vaccine Candidate Based on the P0 Peptide against Dermacentor nitens and Ixodes ricinus Ticks. Pathogens 2023; 12:1365. [PMID: 38003829 PMCID: PMC10675505 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens12111365] [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: 10/12/2023] [Revised: 11/14/2023] [Accepted: 11/15/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
The control of ticks through vaccination offers a sustainable alternative to the use of chemicals that cause contamination and the selection of resistant tick strains. However, only a limited number of anti-tick vaccines have reached commercial realization. In this sense, an antigen effective against different tick species is a desirable target for developing such vaccines. A peptide derived from the tick P0 protein (pP0) conjugated to a carrier protein has been demonstrated to be effective against the Rhipicephalus microplus, Rhipicephalus sanguineus, and Amblyomma mixtum tick species. The aim of this work was to assess the efficacy of this peptide when conjugated to the Bm86 protein against Dermacentor nitens and Ixodes ricinus ticks. An RNAi experiment using P0 dsRNA from I. ricinus showed a dramatic reduction in the feeding of injected female ticks on guinea pigs. In the follow-up vaccination experiments, rabbits were immunized with the pP0-Bm86 conjugate and challenged simultaneously with larvae, nymphs, and the adults of I. ricinus ticks. In the same way, horses were immunized with the pP0-Bm86 conjugate and challenged with D. nitens larva. The pP0-Bm86 conjugate showed efficacies of 63% and 55% against I. ricinus and D. nitens ticks, respectively. These results, combined with previous reports of efficacy for this conjugate, show the promising potential for its development as a broad-spectrum anti-tick vaccine.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alina Rodríguez-Mallon
- Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (CIGB), 31st Avenue and 190, Havana 10600, Cuba; (P.E.E.G.); (F.L.L.B.); (D.D.); (M.J.); (M.P.E.)
| | - Pedro E. Encinosa Guzmán
- Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (CIGB), 31st Avenue and 190, Havana 10600, Cuba; (P.E.E.G.); (F.L.L.B.); (D.D.); (M.J.); (M.P.E.)
| | - Yamil Bello
- Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (CIGB), 31st Avenue and 190, Havana 10600, Cuba; (P.E.E.G.); (F.L.L.B.); (D.D.); (M.J.); (M.P.E.)
| | - Ana Domingos
- Global Health and Tropical Medicine, GHTM, Associate Laboratory in Translation and Innovation towards Global Health, LA-REAL, Instituto de Higiene e Medicina Tropical, IHMT, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, UNL, Rua da Junqueira 100, 1349-008 Lisboa, Portugal; (A.D.); (S.A.)
| | - Sandra Antunes
- Global Health and Tropical Medicine, GHTM, Associate Laboratory in Translation and Innovation towards Global Health, LA-REAL, Instituto de Higiene e Medicina Tropical, IHMT, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, UNL, Rua da Junqueira 100, 1349-008 Lisboa, Portugal; (A.D.); (S.A.)
| | - Petr Kopacek
- Institute of Parasitology, Biology Centre, Czech Academy of Sciences, 37005 České Budějovice, Czech Republic; (P.K.); (J.P.); (H.F.)
| | - Ana Sofia Santos
- Centro de Estudos de Vetores e Doenças Infeciosas Dr. Francisco Cambournac, Instituto Nacional de Saúde Doutor Ricardo Jorge (CEVDI-INSA), 2965-575 Águas de Moura, Portugal; (A.S.S.); (R.V.)
- Instituto de Saúde Ambiental, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-004 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Rita Velez
- Centro de Estudos de Vetores e Doenças Infeciosas Dr. Francisco Cambournac, Instituto Nacional de Saúde Doutor Ricardo Jorge (CEVDI-INSA), 2965-575 Águas de Moura, Portugal; (A.S.S.); (R.V.)
| | - Jan Perner
- Institute of Parasitology, Biology Centre, Czech Academy of Sciences, 37005 České Budějovice, Czech Republic; (P.K.); (J.P.); (H.F.)
| | - Frank L. Ledesma Bravo
- Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (CIGB), 31st Avenue and 190, Havana 10600, Cuba; (P.E.E.G.); (F.L.L.B.); (D.D.); (M.J.); (M.P.E.)
| | - Helena Frantova
- Institute of Parasitology, Biology Centre, Czech Academy of Sciences, 37005 České Budějovice, Czech Republic; (P.K.); (J.P.); (H.F.)
| | - Jan Erhart
- Institute of Parasitology, Biology Centre, Czech Academy of Sciences, 37005 České Budějovice, Czech Republic; (P.K.); (J.P.); (H.F.)
| | - Rafmary Rodríguez
- National Laboratory of Parasitology, Avenue San Antonio-Rincón, Km 1 1/2, Artemisa 32500, Cuba; (R.R.); (A.F.)
| | - Alier Fuentes
- National Laboratory of Parasitology, Avenue San Antonio-Rincón, Km 1 1/2, Artemisa 32500, Cuba; (R.R.); (A.F.)
| | - David Diago
- Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (CIGB), 31st Avenue and 190, Havana 10600, Cuba; (P.E.E.G.); (F.L.L.B.); (D.D.); (M.J.); (M.P.E.)
| | - Marisdania Joglar
- Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (CIGB), 31st Avenue and 190, Havana 10600, Cuba; (P.E.E.G.); (F.L.L.B.); (D.D.); (M.J.); (M.P.E.)
| | - Luis Méndez
- National Laboratory of Parasitology, Avenue San Antonio-Rincón, Km 1 1/2, Artemisa 32500, Cuba; (R.R.); (A.F.)
| | - Mario Pablo Estrada
- Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (CIGB), 31st Avenue and 190, Havana 10600, Cuba; (P.E.E.G.); (F.L.L.B.); (D.D.); (M.J.); (M.P.E.)
| |
Collapse
|
42
|
Yang Z, He Y, Chen Y, Meng J, Li N, Li S, Wang J. Full genome characterization and evolutionary analysis of Banna virus isolated from Culicoides, mosquitoes and ticks in Yunnan, China. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2023; 13:1283580. [PMID: 38035340 PMCID: PMC10687475 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2023.1283580] [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] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2023] [Accepted: 10/30/2023] [Indexed: 12/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Banna virus (BAV), a potential pathogen that may cause human encephalitis, is the prototype species of genus Seadornaviru within the family Reoviridae, and has been isolated from a variety of blood-sucking insects and mammals in Asia. Methods Culicoides, Mosquitoes, and Ticks were collected overnight in Yunnan, China, during 2016-2023 using light traps. Virus was isolated from these collected blood-sucking insects and grown using Aedes albopictus (C6/36) cells. Preliminary identification of the virus was performed by agarose gel electrophoresis (AGE). The full genome sequences of the BAVs were determined by full-length amplification of cDNAs (FLAC) and sequenced using next-generation sequencing. Results In this study, 13 strains BAV were isolated from Culicoides, Mosquitoes and Ticks. Their viral genome consisted of 12 segments of double-stranded RNA (dsRNA), and with three distinct distribution patterns. Sequence analysis showed that Seg-5 of four strains (SJ_M46, SJ_M49, JC_M19-13 and JC_C24-13) has 435 bases nucleotide sequence insertions in their ORF compared to other BAVs, resulting in the length of Seg-5 up to 2128 nt. There are 34 bases sequence deletion in Seg-9 of 3 strains (WS_T06, MS_M166 and MS_M140). Comparison of the coding sequences of VP1, VP2, VP5, VP9 and VP12 of the 13 BAV strains, the results show that VP1, VP2 and VP12 are characterised by high levels of sequence conservation, while VP9 is highly variable, under great pressure to adapt and may be correlated with serotype. While also variable, VP5 appears to be under less adaptive pressure than VP9. Additionally, phylogenetic analysis indicates that the 13 BAV strains locate in the same evolutionary cluster as BAVs isolated from various blood-sucking insects, and are clustered according to geographical distribution. Conclusion The data obtained herein would be beneficial for the surveillance of evolutionary characteristics of BAV in China and neighboring countries as well as extend the knowledge about its genomic diversity and geographic distribution.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhenxing Yang
- Yunnan Tropical and Subtropical Animal Viral Disease Laboratory, Key Laboratory of Transboundary Animal Diseases Prevention and Control (Co-construction by Ministry and Province), Yunnan Animal Science and Veterinary Institute, Kunming, Yunnan, China
| | - Yuwen He
- Yunnan Tropical and Subtropical Animal Viral Disease Laboratory, Key Laboratory of Transboundary Animal Diseases Prevention and Control (Co-construction by Ministry and Province), Yunnan Animal Science and Veterinary Institute, Kunming, Yunnan, China
| | - Yiju Chen
- Yunnan Tropical and Subtropical Animal Viral Disease Laboratory, Key Laboratory of Transboundary Animal Diseases Prevention and Control (Co-construction by Ministry and Province), Yunnan Animal Science and Veterinary Institute, Kunming, Yunnan, China
- School of Public Health, Kunming Medical University, Kunming, Yunnan, China
| | - Jinxin Meng
- Yunnan Tropical and Subtropical Animal Viral Disease Laboratory, Key Laboratory of Transboundary Animal Diseases Prevention and Control (Co-construction by Ministry and Province), Yunnan Animal Science and Veterinary Institute, Kunming, Yunnan, China
| | - Nan Li
- Yunnan Tropical and Subtropical Animal Viral Disease Laboratory, Key Laboratory of Transboundary Animal Diseases Prevention and Control (Co-construction by Ministry and Province), Yunnan Animal Science and Veterinary Institute, Kunming, Yunnan, China
| | - Susheng Li
- Yunnan Tropical and Subtropical Animal Viral Disease Laboratory, Key Laboratory of Transboundary Animal Diseases Prevention and Control (Co-construction by Ministry and Province), Yunnan Animal Science and Veterinary Institute, Kunming, Yunnan, China
| | - Jinglin Wang
- Yunnan Tropical and Subtropical Animal Viral Disease Laboratory, Key Laboratory of Transboundary Animal Diseases Prevention and Control (Co-construction by Ministry and Province), Yunnan Animal Science and Veterinary Institute, Kunming, Yunnan, China
| |
Collapse
|
43
|
Simões ML. Transgenic approaches in medical entomology: 2022 highlights. J Med Entomol 2023; 60:1262-1268. [PMID: 37658779 DOI: 10.1093/jme/tjad105] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2023] [Revised: 07/09/2023] [Accepted: 07/26/2023] [Indexed: 09/05/2023]
Abstract
Transgenesis has emerged as a powerful tool to control arthropod vectors and the diseases they transmit. Here, we highlight the latest developments on transgenic approaches in ticks, Anopheles and Aedes mosquitoes, based on recent findings and significant papers from 2022. We survey topics ranging from population replacement, population suppression, gene drive, sex ratio distortion, public engagement and capacity building, and gene editing in ticks. While presenting these advancements, we discuss the current challenges surrounding the application of arthropod transgenesis for the development of novel vector control strategies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maria L Simões
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Institute of Tropical Medicine Antwerp, Nationalestraat 155, 2000 Antwerp, Belgium
| |
Collapse
|
44
|
Kozelková T, Dyčka F, Lu S, Urbanová V, Frantová H, Sojka D, Šíma R, Horn M, Perner J, Kopáček P. Insight Into the Dynamics of the Ixodes ricinus Nymphal Midgut Proteome. Mol Cell Proteomics 2023; 22:100663. [PMID: 37832788 PMCID: PMC10665701 DOI: 10.1016/j.mcpro.2023.100663] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2023] [Revised: 09/06/2023] [Accepted: 10/03/2023] [Indexed: 10/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Ticks are ectoparasites that feed on blood and have an impressive ability to consume and process enormous amounts of host blood, allowing extremely long periods of starvation between blood meals. The central role in the parasitic lifestyle of ticks is played by the midgut. This organ efficiently stores and digests ingested blood and serves as the primary interface for the transmission of tick-borne pathogens. In this study, we used a label-free quantitative approach to perform a novel dynamic proteomic analysis of the midgut of Ixodesricinus nymphs, covering their development from unfed to pre-molt stages. We identified 1534 I. ricinus-specific proteins with a relatively low proportion of host proteins. This proteome dataset, which was carefully examined by manual scrutiny, allowed precise annotation of proteins important for blood meal processing and their dynamic changes during nymphal ontogeny. We focused on midgut molecules related to lipid hydrolysis, storage, and transport, opening a yet unexplored avenue for studying lipid metabolism in ticks. Further dynamic profiling of the tick's multi-enzyme digestive network, protease inhibitors, enzymes involved in redox homeostasis and detoxification, antimicrobial peptides, and proteins responsible for midgut colonization by Borrelia spirochetes promises to uncover new targets for targeting tick nymphs, the most critical life stage for transmission the pathogens that cause tick-borne diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tereza Kozelková
- Institute of Parasitology, Biology Centre of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic; Faculty of Sciences, University of South Bohemia, Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic
| | - Filip Dyčka
- Institute of Parasitology, Biology Centre of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic; Faculty of Sciences, University of South Bohemia, Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic
| | - Stephen Lu
- Vector Biology Section, Laboratory of Malaria and Vector Research, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Veronika Urbanová
- Institute of Parasitology, Biology Centre of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic
| | - Helena Frantová
- Institute of Parasitology, Biology Centre of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic
| | - Daniel Sojka
- Institute of Parasitology, Biology Centre of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic
| | - Radek Šíma
- Institute of Parasitology, Biology Centre of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic; Bioptic Laboratory, Ltd, Plzen, Czech Republic
| | - Martin Horn
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry, Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Jan Perner
- Institute of Parasitology, Biology Centre of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic
| | - Petr Kopáček
- Institute of Parasitology, Biology Centre of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic.
| |
Collapse
|
45
|
Arroyo-Ramírez A, Lugo-Caballero C, Panti-May JA, Reyes-Novelo E, Rodríguez-Vivas RI, Noh-Pech H, Suárez-Galaz A, Osorio-Primo T, Puerto FI, Dzul-Rosado K, Torres-Castro M. An unusual identification of Rickettsia parkeri in synanthropic rodents and domiciliated dogs of a rural community from Yucatán, Mexico. Zoonoses Public Health 2023; 70:594-603. [PMID: 37391871 DOI: 10.1111/zph.13068] [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: 04/12/2023] [Revised: 05/19/2023] [Accepted: 06/16/2023] [Indexed: 07/02/2023]
Abstract
Rickettsia parkeri belongs to the spotted fever group (SFG) of the Rickettsia genus. This bacterium causes mild rickettsiosis in humans and is mainly transmitted by Amblyomma ticks. Its medical importance is emerging in the Americas, including Mexico. Synanthropic rodents and domiciled dogs participate as accidental hosts in epidemiological cycles of Rickettsia of the SFG. The aim is to report the presence of R. parkeri in synanthropic rodents and domiciled dogs from a rural community of Yucatán, Mexico. Rodents were captured, and plasma samples were taken from dogs in 48 households from Ucú, Yucatán, Mexico. A spleen sample (rodents) and plasma (dogs) were used in the propagation of Rickettsia on Vero cells. These infected cells were used in the extraction of genomic DNA. Rickettsia DNA was identified using a semi-nested PCR (snPCR); some products were sent for sequencing. The recovered sequences were analysed with bioinformatics programs, and a phylogenetic tree was built to determine the Rickettsia species. One hundred animals were sampled: 36 synanthropic rodents and 64 dogs. The snPCR evidenced the presence of Rickettsia DNA in 10 rodents (10/36, 27.8%) and 18 dogs (18/64, 28.1%), which represents a global frequency of 28% (28/100) in this study. The bioinformatics analysis yielded homology to R. parkeri and was demonstrated in the phylogenetic tree. The first evidence of the presence of R. parkeri in synanthropic rodents (Mus musculus) from Mexico is presented; likewise, the participation of domestic dogs in the transmission cycle of this bacterium with potential importance in public health is confirmed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Abigail Arroyo-Ramírez
- Laboratorio de Enfermedades Emergentes y Reemergentes, Centro de Investigaciones Regionales "Dr. Hideyo Noguchi", Universidad Autónoma de Yucatán, Mérida, Mexico
| | - César Lugo-Caballero
- Laboratorio de Enfermedades Emergentes y Reemergentes, Centro de Investigaciones Regionales "Dr. Hideyo Noguchi", Universidad Autónoma de Yucatán, Mérida, Mexico
| | - J Alonso Panti-May
- Laboratorio de Zoonosis y otras Enfermedades Transmitidas por Vector, Centro de Investigaciones Regionales "Dr. Hideyo Noguchi", Universidad Autónoma de Yucatán, Mérida, Mexico
| | - Enrique Reyes-Novelo
- Laboratorio de Zoonosis y otras Enfermedades Transmitidas por Vector, Centro de Investigaciones Regionales "Dr. Hideyo Noguchi", Universidad Autónoma de Yucatán, Mérida, Mexico
| | - Roger I Rodríguez-Vivas
- Laboratorio de Parasitología, Facultad de Medicina Veterinaria y Zootecnia, Universidad Autónoma de Yucatán, Mérida, Mexico
| | - Henry Noh-Pech
- Laboratorio de Enfermedades Emergentes y Reemergentes, Centro de Investigaciones Regionales "Dr. Hideyo Noguchi", Universidad Autónoma de Yucatán, Mérida, Mexico
| | - Alejandro Suárez-Galaz
- Laboratorio de Enfermedades Emergentes y Reemergentes, Centro de Investigaciones Regionales "Dr. Hideyo Noguchi", Universidad Autónoma de Yucatán, Mérida, Mexico
| | - Tana Osorio-Primo
- Laboratorio de Enfermedades Emergentes y Reemergentes, Centro de Investigaciones Regionales "Dr. Hideyo Noguchi", Universidad Autónoma de Yucatán, Mérida, Mexico
| | - Fernando I Puerto
- Laboratorio de Enfermedades Emergentes y Reemergentes, Centro de Investigaciones Regionales "Dr. Hideyo Noguchi", Universidad Autónoma de Yucatán, Mérida, Mexico
| | - Karla Dzul-Rosado
- Laboratorio de Enfermedades Emergentes y Reemergentes, Centro de Investigaciones Regionales "Dr. Hideyo Noguchi", Universidad Autónoma de Yucatán, Mérida, Mexico
| | - Marco Torres-Castro
- Laboratorio de Enfermedades Emergentes y Reemergentes, Centro de Investigaciones Regionales "Dr. Hideyo Noguchi", Universidad Autónoma de Yucatán, Mérida, Mexico
| |
Collapse
|
46
|
Barnes M, Price DC. Endogenous Viral Elements in Ixodid Tick Genomes. Viruses 2023; 15:2201. [PMID: 38005880 PMCID: PMC10675110 DOI: 10.3390/v15112201] [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: 08/10/2023] [Revised: 10/19/2023] [Accepted: 10/23/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
The documentation of endogenous viral elements (EVEs; virus-derived genetic material integrated into the genome of a nonviral host) has offered insights into how arthropods respond to viral infection via RNA interference pathways. Small non-coding RNAs derived from EVE loci serve to direct RNAi pathways in limiting replication and infection from cognate viruses, thus benefiting the host's fitness and, potentially, vectorial capacity. Here we use informatic approaches to analyze nine available genome sequences of hard ticks (Acari: Ixodidae; Rhipicephalus sanguineus, R. microplus, R. annulatus, Ixodes ricinus, I. persulcatus, I. scapularis, Hyalomma asiaticum, Haemaphysalis longicornis, and Dermacentor silvarum) to identify endogenous viral elements and to illustrate the shared ancestry of all elements identified. Our results highlight a broad diversity of viral taxa as having given rise to 1234 identified EVEs in ticks, with Mononegavirales (specifically Rhabdoviridae) well-represented in this subset of hard ticks. Further investigation revealed extensive adintovirus integrations in several Ixodes species, the prevalence of Bunyavirales EVEs (notably not observed in mosquitoes), and the presence of several elements similar to known emerging human and veterinary pathogens. These results will inform subsequent work on current and past associations with tick species with regard to the viruses from which their "viral fossils" are derived and may serve as a reference for quality control of various tick-omics data that may suffer from misidentification of EVEs as viral genetic material.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Dana C. Price
- Center for Vector Biology, Department of Entomology, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, NJ 08901, USA;
| |
Collapse
|
47
|
Diarra AZ, Kelly P, Davoust B, Parola P. Tick-Borne Diseases of Humans and Animals in West Africa. Pathogens 2023; 12:1276. [PMID: 38003741 PMCID: PMC10675719 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens12111276] [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: 08/18/2023] [Revised: 10/11/2023] [Accepted: 10/13/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Ticks are a significant group of arthropod vectors that transmit a large variety of pathogens responsible for human and animal diseases worldwide. Ticks are the second biggest transmitters of vector-borne diseases, behind mosquitoes. However, in West Africa, there is often only limited knowledge of tick-borne diseases. With the scarcity of appropriate diagnostic services, the prevalence of tick-borne diseases is generally underestimated in humans. In this review, we provide an update on tick-borne pathogens reported in people, animals and ticks in West Africa by microscopic, immunological and molecular methods. A systematic search was conducted in PubMed and Google Scholar. The selection criteria included all studies conducted in West Africa reporting the presence of Rickettsia, Borrelia, Anaplasma, Ehrlichia, Bartonella, Coxiella burnetii, Theileria, Babesia, Hepatozoon and Crimean-Congo haemorrhagic fever viruses in humans, animals or ticks. Our intention is to raise awareness of tick-borne diseases amongst human and animal health workers in West Africa, and also physicians working with tourists who have travelled to the region.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Adama Zan Diarra
- IHU-Méditerranée Infection, 13005 Marseille, France; (A.Z.D.); (B.D.)
- Aix Marseille Univ, IRD, AP-HM, SSA, VITROME, 13005 Marseille, France
| | - Patrick Kelly
- Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine, Basseterre P.O. Box 334, Saint Kitts and Nevis;
| | - Bernard Davoust
- IHU-Méditerranée Infection, 13005 Marseille, France; (A.Z.D.); (B.D.)
- Aix Marseille Univ, IRD, AP-HM, MEPHI, 13005 Marseille, France
| | - Philippe Parola
- IHU-Méditerranée Infection, 13005 Marseille, France; (A.Z.D.); (B.D.)
- Aix Marseille Univ, IRD, AP-HM, SSA, VITROME, 13005 Marseille, France
| |
Collapse
|
48
|
Rowan S, Mohseni N, Chang M, Burger H, Peters M, Mir S. From Tick to Test: A Comprehensive Review of Tick-Borne Disease Diagnostics and Surveillance Methods in the United States. Life (Basel) 2023; 13:2048. [PMID: 37895430 PMCID: PMC10608558 DOI: 10.3390/life13102048] [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: 09/13/2023] [Revised: 10/08/2023] [Accepted: 10/11/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Tick-borne diseases (TBDs) have become a significant public health concern in the United States over the past few decades. The increasing incidence and geographical spread of these diseases have prompted the implementation of robust surveillance systems to monitor their prevalence, distribution, and impact on human health. This comprehensive review describes key disease features with the geographical distribution of all known tick-borne pathogens in the United States, along with examining disease surveillance efforts, focusing on strategies, challenges, and advancements. Surveillance methods include passive and active surveillance, laboratory-based surveillance, sentinel surveillance, and a One Health approach. Key surveillance systems, such as the National Notifiable Diseases Surveillance System (NNDSS), TickNET, and the Tick-Borne Disease Laboratory Network (TBDLN), are discussed. Data collection and reporting challenges, such as underreporting and misdiagnosis, are highlighted. The review addresses challenges, including lack of standardization, surveillance in non-human hosts, and data integration. Innovations encompass molecular techniques, syndromic surveillance, and tick surveillance programs. Implications for public health cover prevention strategies, early detection, treatment, and public education. Future directions emphasize enhanced surveillance networks, integrated vector management, research priorities, and policy implications. This review enhances understanding of TBD surveillance, aiding in informed decision-making for effective disease prevention and control. By understanding the current surveillance landscape, public health officials, researchers, and policymakers can make informed decisions to mitigate the burden of (TBDs).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Sheema Mir
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Western University of Health Sciences, Pomona, CA 91766, USA; (S.R.)
| |
Collapse
|
49
|
Krausser L, Chauvaux E, Van Dyck-Lippens M, Yssouf A, Assoumani Y, Tortosa P, de Jong BC, Braet SM. Ticks are unlikely to play a role in leprosy transmission in the Comoros (East Africa) as they do not harbour M. leprae DNA. Front Med (Lausanne) 2023; 10:1238914. [PMID: 37859857 PMCID: PMC10582737 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2023.1238914] [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: 06/12/2023] [Accepted: 09/18/2023] [Indexed: 10/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Leprosy, one of the oldest known human diseases, continues to pose a global challenge for disease control due to an incomplete understanding of its transmission pathways. Ticks have been proposed as a potential contributor in leprosy transmission due to their importance as vectors for other infectious diseases. Methods In 2010, a sampling of ticks residing on cattle was conducted on the islands Grande Comore, Anjouan, and Mohéli which constitute the Union of the Comoros where leprosy remains endemic. To investigate the potential role of ticks as a vector in transmission of leprosy disease, molecular analyses were conducted. Results Out of the 526 ticks analysed, none were found to harbour Mycobacterium leprae DNA, as determined by a quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) assay targeting a family of dispersed repeats (RLEP) specific to M. leprae. Discussion Therefore, our results suggest that in the Union of the Comoros, ticks are an unlikely vector for M. leprae.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lena Krausser
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Institute of Tropical Medicine (ITM), Antwerp, Belgium
- University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
- Research Foundation Flanders (FWO), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Elien Chauvaux
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Institute of Tropical Medicine (ITM), Antwerp, Belgium
- University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | | | - Amina Yssouf
- Unité Mixte de Recherche Processus Infectieux en Milieu Insulaire Tropical (UMR PIMIT), Université de La Réunion, CHU de La Réunion, Plateforme Technologique CYROI, Sainte-Clotilde, Réunion Island, France
- Plan National de Lutte contre le Paludisme, Moroni, Comoros
| | - Younoussa Assoumani
- Damien Foundation, Brussels, Belgium
- National Tuberculosis and Leprosy Control Program, Moroni, Comoros
| | - Pablo Tortosa
- Unité Mixte de Recherche Processus Infectieux en Milieu Insulaire Tropical (UMR PIMIT), Université de La Réunion, CHU de La Réunion, Plateforme Technologique CYROI, Sainte-Clotilde, Réunion Island, France
- Université de La Réunion, Fédération de recherche Environnement, Biodiversité et Santé, Saint-Denis, Réunion Island, France
| | | | - Sofie Marijke Braet
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Institute of Tropical Medicine (ITM), Antwerp, Belgium
- University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
- Research Foundation Flanders (FWO), Brussels, Belgium
| |
Collapse
|
50
|
Aneela A, Almutairi MM, Alouffi A, Ahmed H, Tanaka T, da Silva Vaz I, Chang SC, Chen CC, Ali A. Molecular Detection of Rickettsia hoogstraalii in Hyalomma anatolicum and Haemaphysalis sulcata: Updated Knowledge on the Epidemiology of Tick-Borne Rickettsia hoogstraalii. Vet Sci 2023; 10:605. [PMID: 37888557 PMCID: PMC10611279 DOI: 10.3390/vetsci10100605] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [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: 09/01/2023] [Revised: 09/23/2023] [Accepted: 10/01/2023] [Indexed: 10/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Ticks are hematophagous ectoparasites that transmit pathogens to animals and humans. Updated knowledge regarding the global epidemiology of tick-borne Rickettsia hoogstraalii is dispersed, and its molecular detection and genetic characterization are missing in Pakistan. The current study objectives were to molecularly detect and genetically characterize Rickettsia species, especially R. hoogstraalii, in hard ticks infesting livestock in Pakistan, and to provide updated knowledge regarding their global epidemiology. Ticks were collected from livestock, including goats, sheep, and cattle, in six districts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) Pakistan. Overall, 183 hosts were examined, of which 134 (73.2%), including goats (number = 39/54, 72.2%), sheep (23/40, 57.5%), and cattle (71/89, 80%) were infested by 823 ticks. The most prevalent tick species was Rhipicephalus microplus (number = 283, 34.3%), followed by Hyalomma anatolicum (223, 27.0%), Rhipicephalus turanicus (122, 14.8%), Haemaphysalis sulcata (104, 12.6%), Haemaphysalis montgomeryi (66, 8.0%), and Haemaphysalis bispinosa (25, 3.03%). A subset of 210 ticks was selected and screened for Rickettsia spp. using PCR-based amplification and subsequent sequencing of rickettsial gltA and ompB fragments. The overall occurrence rate of R. hoogstraalii was 4.3% (number = 9/210). The DNA of Rickettsia was detected in Hy. anatolicum (3/35, 8.5%) and Ha. sulcata (6/49, 12.2%). However, no rickettsial DNA was detected in Rh. microplus (35), Rh. turanicus (35), Ha. montgomeryi (42), and Ha. bispinosa (14). The gltA and ompB fragments showed 99-100% identity with R. hoogstraalii and clustered phylogenetically with the corresponding species from Pakistan, Italy, Georgia, and China. R. hoogstraalii was genetically characterized for the first time in Pakistan and Hy. anatolicum globally. Further studies should be encouraged to determine the role of ticks in the maintenance and transmission of R. hoogstraalii in different hosts.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Aneela Aneela
- Department of Zoology, Abdul Wali Khan University Mardan, Mardan 23200, Pakistan
| | - Mashal M. Almutairi
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia;
| | - Abdulaziz Alouffi
- King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology, Riyadh 12354, Saudi Arabia;
| | - Haroon Ahmed
- Department of Biosciences, COMSATS University Islamabad (CUI), Park Road, Chak Shahzad, Islamabad 45550, Pakistan;
| | - Tetsuya Tanaka
- Laboratory of Infectious Diseases, Joint Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kagoshima University, Kagoshima 890-0065, Japan;
| | - Itabajara da Silva Vaz
- Centro de Biotecnologia and Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre 90050-170, RS, Brazil;
| | - Shun-Chung Chang
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Ditmanson Medical Foundation Chia-Yi Christian Hospital, Chiayi 60002, Taiwan
| | - Chien-Chin Chen
- Department of Pathology, Ditmanson Medical Foundation Chia-Yi Christian Hospital, Chiayi 60002, Taiwan;
- Department of Cosmetic Science, Chia Nan University of Pharmacy and Science, Tainan 71710, Taiwan
- Ph.D. Program in Translational Medicine, Rong Hsing Research Center for Translational Medicine, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung 40227, Taiwan
- Department of Biotechnology and Bioindustry Sciences, College of Bioscience and Biotechnology, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan 70101, Taiwan
| | - Abid Ali
- Department of Zoology, Abdul Wali Khan University Mardan, Mardan 23200, Pakistan
| |
Collapse
|