1
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Stott EK, Nie S, Williamson NA, Skerratt LF. Free drug percentage of moxidectin declines with increasing concentrations in the serum of marsupials. Int J Parasitol Parasites Wildl 2024; 23:100899. [PMID: 38274349 PMCID: PMC10808906 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijppaw.2023.100899] [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: 10/29/2023] [Revised: 12/19/2023] [Accepted: 12/20/2023] [Indexed: 01/27/2024]
Abstract
Moxidectin (MOX) is a macrocyclic lactone used to eliminate endo and ectoparasites in many mammalian species. It is notably the active ingredient of the anti-parasitic drug Cydectin®, manufactured by Virbac, and is frequently used to treat sarcoptic mange in Australian wildlife. Protein binding plays a significant role in the efficacy of a drug, as the unbound/free drug in plasma ultimately reflects the pharmacologically relevant concentration. This study aimed to investigate the free drug percentage of Moxidectin after in vitro spiking into the sera of four sarcoptic mange-susceptible Australian wildlife species; the koala (Phascolarctos cinereus), the bare-nosed wombat (Vombatus ursinus), the eastern grey kangaroo (Macropus giganteus), and the mountain brushtail possum (Trichosurus cunninghami). Three concentration points of MOX were tested for each individual: 20 pg/μL, 100 pg/μL and 500 pg/μL. Serum from five individuals of each species underwent an equilibrium dialysis followed by liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). The results showed an atypical concentration dependent binding across all species, where free drug percentage decreased as MOX concentration increased. In addition, wombats showed significantly lower free drug levels. These findings call for further research into the mechanisms of moxidectin protein binding to help understand MOX pharmacokinetics in marsupials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eliza K. Stott
- One Health Research Group, Melbourne Veterinary School, Faculty of Science, Werribee, The University of Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Shuai Nie
- Melbourne Mass Spectrometry and Proteomics Facility, The University of Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Nicholas A. Williamson
- Melbourne Mass Spectrometry and Proteomics Facility, The University of Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Lee F. Skerratt
- One Health Research Group, Melbourne Veterinary School, Faculty of Science, Werribee, The University of Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
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2
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Berger L, Skerratt LF, Kosch TA, Brannelly LA, Webb RJ, Waddle AW. Advances in Managing Chytridiomycosis for Australian Frogs: Gradarius Firmus Victoria. Annu Rev Anim Biosci 2024; 12:113-133. [PMID: 38358840 DOI: 10.1146/annurev-animal-021122-100823] [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: 02/17/2024]
Abstract
Extensive knowledge gains from research worldwide over the 25 years since the discovery of chytridiomycosis can be used for improved management. Strategies that have saved populations in the short term and/or enabled recovery include captive breeding, translocation into disease refugia, translocation from resistant populations, disease-free exclosures, and preservation of disease refuges with connectivity to previous habitat, while antifungal treatments have reduced mortality rates in the wild. Increasing host resistance is the goal of many strategies under development, including vaccination and targeted genetic interventions. Pathogen-directed strategies may be more challenging but would have broad applicability. While the search for the silver bullet solution continues, we should value targeted local interventions that stop extinction and buy time for evolution of resistance or development of novel solutions. As for most invasive species and infectious diseases, we need to accept that ongoing management is necessary. For species continuing to decline, proactive deployment and assessment of promising interventions are more valid than a hands-off, do-no-harm approach that will likely allow further extinctions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lee Berger
- One Health Research Group, Melbourne Veterinary School, Faculty of Science, University of Melbourne, Werribee, Victoria, Australia; , , , ,
| | - Lee F Skerratt
- One Health Research Group, Melbourne Veterinary School, Faculty of Science, University of Melbourne, Werribee, Victoria, Australia; , , , ,
| | - Tiffany A Kosch
- One Health Research Group, Melbourne Veterinary School, Faculty of Science, University of Melbourne, Werribee, Victoria, Australia; , , , ,
| | - Laura A Brannelly
- One Health Research Group, Melbourne Veterinary School, Faculty of Science, University of Melbourne, Werribee, Victoria, Australia; , , , ,
| | - Rebecca J Webb
- One Health Research Group, Melbourne Veterinary School, Faculty of Science, University of Melbourne, Werribee, Victoria, Australia; , , , ,
| | - Anthony W Waddle
- One Health Research Group, Melbourne Veterinary School, Faculty of Science, University of Melbourne, Werribee, Victoria, Australia; , , , ,
- Applied Biosciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia;
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3
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Webb RJ, Rush C, Berger L, Skerratt LF, Roberts AA. Glutathione is required for growth and cadmium tolerance in the amphibian chytrid fungus, Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis. Biochimie 2023; 220:22-30. [PMID: 38104714 DOI: 10.1016/j.biochi.2023.12.002] [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] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2023] [Revised: 11/24/2023] [Accepted: 12/12/2023] [Indexed: 12/19/2023]
Abstract
Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis (Bd) is a lethal amphibian pathogen, partly due to its ability to evade the immune system of susceptible frog species. In many pathogenic fungi, the antioxidant glutathione is a virulence factor that helps neutralise oxidative stressors generated from host immune cells, as well as other environmental stressors such as heavy metals. The role of glutathione in stress tolerance in Bd has not been investigated. Here, we examine the changes in the glutathione pool after stress exposure and quantify the effect of glutathione depletion on cell growth and stress tolerance. Depletion of glutathione repressed growth and release of zoospores, suggesting that glutathione is essential for life cycle completion in Bd. Supplementation with <2 mM exogenous glutathione accelerated zoospore development, but concentrations >2 mM were strongly inhibitory to Bd cells. While hydrogen peroxide exposure lowered the total cellular glutathione levels by 42 %, glutathione depletion did not increase the sensitivity to hydrogen peroxide. Exposure to cadmium increased total cellular glutathione levels by 93 %. Glutathione-depleted cells were more sensitive to cadmium, and this effect was attenuated by glutathione supplementation, suggesting that glutathione plays an important role in cadmium tolerance. The effects of heat and salt were exacerbated by the addition of exogenous glutathione. The impact of glutathione levels on Bd stress sensitivity may help explain differences in host susceptibility to chytridiomycosis and may provide opportunities for synergistic therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca J Webb
- James Cook University, Townsville, QLD, 4811, Australia; Melbourne Veterinary School, University of Melbourne, Werribee, VIC, 3030, Australia.
| | | | - Lee Berger
- Melbourne Veterinary School, University of Melbourne, Werribee, VIC, 3030, Australia
| | - Lee F Skerratt
- Melbourne Veterinary School, University of Melbourne, Werribee, VIC, 3030, Australia
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4
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Esson C, Samelius G, Strand TM, Lundkvist Å, Michaux JR, Råsbäck T, Wahab T, Mijiddorj TN, Berger L, Skerratt LF, Low M. The prevalence of rodent-borne zoonotic pathogens in the South Gobi desert region of Mongolia. Infect Ecol Epidemiol 2023; 13:2270258. [PMID: 37867606 PMCID: PMC10588514 DOI: 10.1080/20008686.2023.2270258] [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] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2022] [Accepted: 10/09/2023] [Indexed: 10/24/2023] Open
Abstract
The alpine ecosystems and communities of central Asia are currently undergoing large-scale ecological and socio-ecological changes likely to affect wildlife-livestock-human disease interactions and zoonosis transmission risk. However, relatively little is known about the prevalence of pathogens in this region. Between 2012 and 2015 we screened 142 rodents in Mongolia's Gobi desert for exposure to important zoonotic and livestock pathogens. Rodent seroprevalence to Leptospira spp. was >1/3 of tested animals, Toxoplasma gondii and Coxiella burnetii approximately 1/8 animals, and the hantaviruses being between 1/20 (Puumala-like hantavirus) and <1/100 (Seoul-like hantavirus). Gerbils trapped inside local dwellings were one of the species seropositive to Puumala-like hantavirus, suggesting a potential zoonotic transmission pathway. Seventeen genera of zoonotic bacteria were also detected in the faeces and ticks collected from these rodents, with one tick testing positive to Yersinia. Our study helps provide baseline patterns of disease prevalence needed to infer potential transmission between source and target populations in this region, and to help shift the focus of epidemiological research towards understanding disease transmission among species and proactive disease mitigation strategies within a broader One Health framework.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carol Esson
- One Health Research Group, Medical and Veterinary Sciences, James Cook University, Townsville, Queensland, Australia
| | - Gustaf Samelius
- Snow Leopard Trust, Seattle, Washington, USA
- Nordens Ark, Åby Säteri, Hunnebostrand, Sweden
| | - Tanja M. Strand
- Zoonosis Science Centre, Department of Medical Biochemistry and Microbiology, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
- National Veterinary Institute (SVA), Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Åke Lundkvist
- Zoonosis Science Centre, Department of Medical Biochemistry and Microbiology, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Johan R. Michaux
- Laboratoire de génétique de la conservation, Institut de Botanique, Université de Liège, Liège, Belgium
- Animal Sante Territoire Risque Environnement, Centre International de Recherche Agronomique pour le Developpement, Institut National de la Recherche Agronomique, Université de Montpellier, Montpellier, France
| | | | - Tara Wahab
- Public Health Agency of Sweden, Stockholm, Sweden
| | | | - Lee Berger
- One Health Research Group, Melbourne Veterinary School, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Lee F. Skerratt
- One Health Research Group, Melbourne Veterinary School, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Matthew Low
- Department of Ecology, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Uppsala, Sweden
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5
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Gray MJ, Ossiboff RJ, Berger L, Bletz MC, Carter ED, DeMarchi JA, Grayfer L, Lesbarrères D, Malagon DA, Martel A, Miller DL, Pasmans F, Skerratt LF, Towe AE, Wilber MQ. One Health Approach to Globalizing, Accelerating, and Focusing Amphibian and Reptile Disease Research-Reflections and Opinions from the First Global Amphibian and Reptile Disease Conference. Emerg Infect Dis 2023; 29:1-7. [PMID: 37735750 PMCID: PMC10521610 DOI: 10.3201/eid2910.221899] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/23/2023] Open
Abstract
The world's reptiles and amphibians are experiencing dramatic and ongoing losses in biodiversity, changes that can have substantial effects on ecosystems and human health. In 2022, the first Global Amphibian and Reptile Disease Conference was held, using One Health as a guiding principle. The conference showcased knowledge on numerous reptile and amphibian pathogens from several standpoints, including epidemiology, host immune defenses, wild population effects, and mitigation. The conference also provided field experts the opportunity to discuss and identify the most urgent herpetofaunal disease research directions necessary to address current and future threats to reptile and amphibian biodiversity.
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6
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Feigin SV, Wiebers DO, Lueddeke G, Morand S, Lee K, Knight A, Brainin M, Feigin VL, Whitfort A, Marcum J, Shackelford TK, Skerratt LF, Winkler AS. Proposed solutions to anthropogenic climate change: A systematic literature review and a new way forward. Heliyon 2023; 9:e20544. [PMID: 37867892 PMCID: PMC10585315 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e20544] [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] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2023] [Revised: 09/27/2023] [Accepted: 09/28/2023] [Indexed: 10/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Humanity is now facing what may be the biggest challenge to its existence: irreversible climate change brought about by human activity. Our planet is in a state of emergency, and we only have a short window of time (7-8 years) to enact meaningful change. The goal of this systematic literature review is to summarize the peer-reviewed literature on proposed solutions to climate change in the last 20 years (2002-2022), and to propose a framework for a unified approach to solving this climate change crisis. Solutions reviewed include a transition toward use of renewable energy resources, reduced energy consumption, rethinking the global transport sector, and nature-based solutions. This review highlights one of the most important but overlooked pieces in the puzzle of solving the climate change problem - the gradual shift to a plant-based diet and global phaseout of factory (industrialized animal) farming, the most damaging and prolific form of animal agriculture. The gradual global phaseout of industrialized animal farming can be achieved by increasingly replacing animal meat and other animal products with plant-based products, ending government subsidies for animal-based meat, dairy, and eggs, and initiating taxes on such products. Failure to act will ultimately result in a scenario of irreversible climate change with widespread famine and disease, global devastation, climate refugees, and warfare. We therefore suggest an "All Life" approach, invoking the interconnectedness of all life forms on our planet. The logistics for achieving this include a global standardization of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) or similar measures and the introduction of a regulatory body for verification of such measures. These approaches will help deliver environmental and sustainability benefits for our planet far beyond an immediate reduction in global warming.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - George Lueddeke
- Centre for the Study of Resilience and Future Africa, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
- Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC), India
| | - Serge Morand
- Faculty of Veterinary Technology (CNRS), Kasetsart University, Bangkok, Thailand
- Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Kelley Lee
- Pacific Institute on Pathogens, Pandemics and Society, Faculty of Health Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, British Columbia, Canada
- Global Health Governance, Canada
| | - Andrew Knight
- School of Environment and Science, Nathan Campus, Griffith University, Nathan, QLD, Australia
- Faculty of Health and Wellbeing, University of Winchester, Winchester, UK
| | - Michael Brainin
- Clinical Neurosciences and Preventive Medicine, Danube University Krems, Austria
| | - Valery L. Feigin
- National Institute for Stroke and Applied Neurosciences, School of Clinical Sciences, Auckland University of Technology, New Zealand
| | - Amanda Whitfort
- Department of Professional Legal Education, Faculty of Law, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - James Marcum
- Department of Philosophy, Baylor University, Waco, TX, USA
| | - Todd K. Shackelford
- Department of Psychology and Center for Evolutionary Psychological Science, Oakland University, Rochester, MI, USA
| | - Lee F. Skerratt
- Melbourne Veterinary School, Faculty of Science, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Andrea S. Winkler
- Center for Global Health, Department of Neurology, Faculty of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
- Department of Community Medicine and Global Health, Institute of Health and Society, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Norway
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7
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Lau Q, Igawa T, Kosch TA, Dharmayanthi AB, Berger L, Skerratt LF, Satta Y. Conserved Evolution of MHC Supertypes among Japanese Frogs Suggests Selection for Bd Resistance. Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:2121. [PMID: 37443920 DOI: 10.3390/ani13132121] [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: 05/17/2023] [Revised: 06/16/2023] [Accepted: 06/20/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
The chytrid fungus Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis (Bd) is a major threat to amphibians, yet there are no reports of major disease impacts in East Asian frogs. Genetic variation of the major histocompatibility complex (MHC) has been associated with resistance to Bd in frogs from East Asia and worldwide. Using transcriptomic data collated from 11 Japanese frog species (one individual per species), we isolated MHC class I and IIb sequences and validated using molecular cloning. We then compared MHC from Japanese frogs and other species worldwide, with varying Bd susceptibility. Supertyping analysis, which groups MHC alleles based on physicochemical properties of peptide binding sites, identified that all examined East Asian frogs contained at least one MHC-IIb allele belonging to supertype ST-1. This indicates that, despite the large divergence times between some Japanese frogs (up to 145 million years), particular functional properties in the peptide binding sites of MHC-II are conserved among East Asian frogs. Furthermore, preliminary analysis using NetMHCIIpan-4.0, which predicts potential Bd-peptide binding ability, suggests that MHC-IIb ST-1 and ST-2 have higher overall peptide binding ability than other supertypes, irrespective of whether the peptides are derived from Bd, other fungi, or bacteria. Our findings suggest that MHC-IIb among East Asian frogs may have co-evolved under the same selective pressure. Given that Bd originated in this region, it may be a major driver of MHC evolution in East Asian frogs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Quintin Lau
- Research Center for Integrative Evolutionary Science, Sokendai (The Graduate University for Advanced Studies), Hayama 240-0115, Japan
| | - Takeshi Igawa
- Amphibian Research Center, Hiroshima University, Higashi-Hiroshima 739-8526, Japan
| | - Tiffany A Kosch
- One Health Research Group, Faculty of Science, University of Melbourne, Parkville 3010, Australia
| | - Anik B Dharmayanthi
- Research Center for Biosystematics and Evolution, National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN), Bogor 16911, Indonesia
| | - Lee Berger
- One Health Research Group, Faculty of Science, University of Melbourne, Parkville 3010, Australia
| | - Lee F Skerratt
- One Health Research Group, Faculty of Science, University of Melbourne, Parkville 3010, Australia
| | - Yoko Satta
- Research Center for Integrative Evolutionary Science, Sokendai (The Graduate University for Advanced Studies), Hayama 240-0115, Japan
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8
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Davidson MJ, Bushell R, Ploeg R, Marenda M, Halliday C, Goodall D, Gilbert D, Kosch TA, Skerratt LF, Berger L. Embryo mortality in a captive-bred, Critically Endangered amphibian. Dis Aquat Organ 2022; 152:73-83. [PMID: 36453456 DOI: 10.3354/dao03706] [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] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
The Critically Endangered southern corroboree frog Pseudophryne corroboree is dependent upon captive assurance colonies for its continued survival. Although the captive breeding programme for this species has largely been successful, embryonic mortality remains high (40-90% per year). This study aimed to investigate the causes of mortality in P. corroboree embryos in the captive collection at Melbourne Zoo. During the 2021 breeding season, we investigated 108 abnormal embryos to determine the impact of infections and anatomical deformities on survival and used culture and molecular methods to identify microbes. Overall, 100% of abnormal embryos had fungal infections, and of these, 41.6% also had anatomical deformities. The mortality rate in abnormal embryos was 89.8%; however, we detected no difference in survival in any of the 3 observed fungal growth patterns or between deformed and non-deformed embryos. Sanger sequencing of the ITS region identified fungal isolates belonging to the genus Ilyonectria, the first record in a vertebrate host, and another as a Plectosphaerella sp., which is the first record of infection in an embryo. Dominant bacteria identified were of the genera Herbaspirillum and Flavobacterium; however, their role in the mortality is unknown. Fungal infection and deformities have a significant impact on embryo survival in captive-bred P. corroboree. In a species which relies on captive breeding, identifying and reducing the impacts of embryonic mortality can inform conservation efforts and improve reintroduction outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- M J Davidson
- Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Science, University of Melbourne, Werribee, Victoria 3030, Australia
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9
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Kophamel S, Illing B, Ariel E, Difalco M, Skerratt LF, Hamann M, Ward LC, Méndez D, Munns SL. Importance of health assessments for conservation in noncaptive wildlife. Conserv Biol 2022; 36:e13724. [PMID: 33634525 PMCID: PMC9291856 DOI: 10.1111/cobi.13724] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [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: 09/27/2020] [Revised: 02/08/2021] [Accepted: 02/10/2021] [Indexed: 04/13/2023]
Abstract
Wildlife health assessments help identify populations at risk of starvation, disease, and decline from anthropogenic impacts on natural habitats. We conducted an overview of available health assessment studies in noncaptive vertebrates and devised a framework to strategically integrate health assessments in population monitoring. Using a systematic approach, we performed a thorough assessment of studies examining multiple health parameters of noncaptive vertebrate species from 1982 to 2020 (n = 261 studies). We quantified trends in study design and diagnostic methods across taxa with generalized linear models, bibliometric analyses, and visual representations of study location versus biodiversity hotspots. Only 35% of studies involved international or cross-border collaboration. Countries with both high and threatened biodiversity were greatly underrepresented. Species that were not listed as threatened on the International Union for Conservation of Nature Red List represented 49% of assessed species, a trend likely associated with the regional focus of most studies. We strongly suggest following wildlife health assessment protocols when planning a study and using statistically adequate sample sizes for studies establishing reference ranges. Across all taxa blood analysis (89%), body composition assessments (81%), physical examination (72%), and fecal analyses (24% of studies) were the most common methods. A conceptual framework to improve design and standardize wildlife health assessments includes guidelines on the experimental design, data acquisition and analysis, and species conservation planning and management implications. Integrating a physiological and ecological understanding of species resilience toward threatening processes will enable informed decision making regarding the conservation of threatened species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Kophamel
- College of Public Health, Medical and Veterinary SciencesJames Cook UniversityTownsvilleQueenslandAustralia
| | - Björn Illing
- ARC Centre of Excellence for Coral Reef StudiesJames Cook UniversityTownsvilleQueenslandAustralia
| | - Ellen Ariel
- College of Public Health, Medical and Veterinary SciencesJames Cook UniversityTownsvilleQueenslandAustralia
| | - Morgan Difalco
- School of Natural SciencesBangor UniversityBangorWalesUK
| | - Lee F. Skerratt
- Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural SciencesThe University of MelbourneWerribeeVictoriaAustralia
| | - Mark Hamann
- College of Science and EngineeringJames Cook UniversityTownsvilleQueenslandAustralia
| | - Leigh C. Ward
- School of Chemistry and Molecular BiosciencesThe University of QueenslandBrisbaneQueenslandAustralia
| | - Diana Méndez
- Australian Institute of Tropical Health and MedicineJames Cook UniversityTownsvilleQueenslandAustralia
| | - Suzanne L. Munns
- College of Public Health, Medical and Veterinary SciencesJames Cook UniversityTownsvilleQueenslandAustralia
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10
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Abstract
Since their discovery in 2014, reptile nidoviruses (also known as serpentoviruses) have emerged as significant pathogens worldwide. They are known for causing severe and often fatal respiratory disease in various captive snake species, especially pythons. Related viruses have been detected in other reptiles with and without respiratory disease, including captive and wild populations of lizards, and wild populations of freshwater turtles. There are many opportunities to better understand the viral diversity, species susceptibility, and clinical presentation in different species in this relatively new field of research. In captive snake collections, reptile nidoviruses can spread quickly and be associated with high morbidity and mortality, yet the potential disease risk to wild reptile populations remains largely unknown, despite reptile species declining on a global scale. Experimental studies or investigations of disease outbreaks in wild reptile populations are scarce, leaving the available literature limited mostly to exploring findings of naturally infected animals in captivity. Further studies into the pathogenesis of different reptile nidoviruses in a variety of reptile species is required to explore the complexity of disease and routes of transmission. This review focuses on the biology of these viruses, hosts and geographic distribution, clinical signs and pathology, laboratory diagnosis and management of reptile nidovirus infections to better understand nidovirus infections in reptiles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kate Parrish
- Virology Laboratory, Elizabeth Macarthur Agricultural Institute, New South Wales (NSW) Department of Primary Industries, Menangle, NSW, Australia.,College of Public Health, Medical and Veterinary Sciences, James Cook University, Townsville, QLD, Australia
| | - Peter D Kirkland
- Virology Laboratory, Elizabeth Macarthur Agricultural Institute, New South Wales (NSW) Department of Primary Industries, Menangle, NSW, Australia.,College of Public Health, Medical and Veterinary Sciences, James Cook University, Townsville, QLD, Australia
| | - Lee F Skerratt
- Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, Melbourne Veterinary School, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Ellen Ariel
- College of Public Health, Medical and Veterinary Sciences, James Cook University, Townsville, QLD, Australia
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11
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Brannelly LA, Webb RJ, Jiang Z, Berger L, Skerratt LF, Grogan LF. Declining amphibians might be evolving increased reproductive effort in the face of devastating disease. Evolution 2021; 75:2555-2567. [PMID: 34383313 DOI: 10.1111/evo.14327] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2021] [Revised: 07/08/2021] [Accepted: 07/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The devastating infectious disease chytridiomycosis has caused declines of amphibians across the globe, yet some populations are persisting and even recovering. One understudied effect of wildlife disease is changes in reproductive effort. Here, we aimed to understand if the disease has plastic effects on reproduction and if reproductive effort could evolve with disease endemism. We compared the effects of experimental pathogen exposure (trait plasticity) and population-level disease history (evolution in trait baseline) on reproductive effort using gametogenesis as a proxy in the declining and endangered frog Litoria verreauxii alpina. We found that unexposed males from disease-endemic populations had higher reproductive effort, which is consistent with an evolutionary response to chytridiomycosis. We also found evidence of trait plasticity, where males and females were affected differently by infection: pathogen exposed males had higher reproductive effort (larger testes), whereas females had reduced reproductive effort (smaller and fewer developed eggs) regardless of the population of origin. Infectious diseases can cause plastic changes in the reproductive effort at an individual level, and population-level disease exposure can result in changes to baseline reproductive effort; therefore, individual- and population-level effects of disease should be considered when designing management and conservation programs for threatened and declining species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura A Brannelly
- One Health Research Group, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Werribee, Victoria, Australia
| | - Rebecca J Webb
- One Health Research Group, School of Public Health, Medical and Veterinary Sciences, James Cook University, Townsville, Queensland, Australia
| | - Zhixuan Jiang
- One Health Research Group, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Werribee, Victoria, Australia
| | - Lee Berger
- One Health Research Group, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Werribee, Victoria, Australia
| | - Lee F Skerratt
- One Health Research Group, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Werribee, Victoria, Australia
| | - Laura F Grogan
- Environmental Futures Research Institute, Griffith University, Southport, Queensland, Australia.,Forest Research Centre, School of Environment, Science and Engineering, Southern Cross University, Lismore, New South Wales, Australia
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12
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Shima AL, Berger L, Skerratt LF. Haematological and serum biochemical reference intervals of free-ranging Lumholtz's tree-kangaroos (Dendrolagus lumholtzi). Aust Vet J 2021; 99:249-254. [PMID: 33751570 DOI: 10.1111/avj.13063] [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: 07/24/2020] [Revised: 01/13/2021] [Accepted: 02/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Reference intervals for haematology and serum biochemistry parameters were developed for free-ranging Lumholtz's tree-kangaroo (Dendrolagus lumholtzi) using 35 samples from 12 female and 15 male free-ranging animals. Captive tree-kangaroos (n = 12) were also sampled for comparison. Differences were found between free-ranging and captive animals in white blood cell and neutrophil counts, and levels of aspartate aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase, bilirubin, creatine kinase, phosphate, triglycerides and lipase. These differences may be attributed to diet, activity, capture methods or age group. Reference intervals generated may be used for both free-ranging and captive Lumholtz's tree-kangaroos. This study provides a valuable tool for the assessment of health in rescued and captive tree-kangaroos and will aid in investigations into population health and disease in free-ranging Lumholtz's tree-kangaroos. OBJECTIVE To develop reference intervals (RIs) for haematology and serum biochemistry parameters in Lumholtz's tree-kangaroos. METHODS Haematological and serum biochemical RIs were determined using 35 samples from 27 clinically healthy Lumholtz's tree-kangaroos from the Atherton Tablelands region of Queensland examined between 2014 and 2019. Haematology and serum biochemistry parameters were measured from 16 samples from 12 captive animals for comparison. RESULTS Reference intervals based on 35 samples from free-ranging animals showed higher mean and standard deviation values for white blood cell and neutrophil counts, and levels of aspartate aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase, bilirubin, creatine kinase, phosphate, triglycerides and lipase than results for 16 samples from captive animals. Captive individuals showed higher mean values than free-ranging individuals for albumin, protein, creatinine as well as Hb, MCV, MCH and MCHC. CONCLUSION The haematological and serum biochemistry RIs developed for Lumholtz's tree-kangaroos in this study will provide a valuable tool during clinical examination and investigations into disease and population health by veterinarians and researchers. The differences in parameters between free-ranging and captive animals are consistent with differences in diet, age cohort, activity or capture methods. Reference intervals generated from free-ranging animals should also be valid for captive Lumholtz's tree-kangaroos.
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Affiliation(s)
- A L Shima
- One Health Research Group, College of Public Health, Medical and Veterinary Science, James Cook University, Townsville, Queensland, 4811, Australia
| | - L Berger
- One Health Research Group, Melbourne Veterinary School, The University of Melbourne, Werribee, Victoria, 3030, Australia
| | - L F Skerratt
- One Health Research Group, Melbourne Veterinary School, The University of Melbourne, Werribee, Victoria, 3030, Australia
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13
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Iglesias R, Cox-Witton K, Field H, Skerratt LF, Barrett J. Australian Bat Lyssavirus: Analysis of National Bat Surveillance Data from 2010 to 2016. Viruses 2021; 13:v13020189. [PMID: 33513882 PMCID: PMC7911197 DOI: 10.3390/v13020189] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2020] [Revised: 01/12/2021] [Accepted: 01/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Australian bat lyssavirus (ABLV) was first described in 1996 and has been regularly detected in Australian bats since that time. While the virus does not cause population level impacts in bats and has minimal impacts on domestic animals, it does pose a public health risk. For this reason, bats are monitored for ABLV and a national dataset is collated and maintained by Wildlife Health Australia. The 2010–2016 dataset was analysed using logistic regression and time-series analysis to identify predictors of infection status in bats and the factors associated with human exposure to bats. In common with previous passive surveillance studies, we found that little red flying-foxes (Pteropus scapulatus) are more likely than other species to be infected with ABLV. In the four Australian mainland species of flying-fox, there are seasonal differences in infection risk that may be associated with reproductive cycles, with summer and autumn the seasons of greatest risk. The risk of human contact was also seasonal, with lower risk in winter. In line with other studies, we found that the circumstances in which the bat is encountered, such as exhibiting abnormal behaviour or being grounded, are risk factors for ABLV infection and human contact and should continue be key components of public health messaging. We also found evidence of biased recording of some types of information, which made interpretation of some findings more challenging. Strengthening of “One Health” linkages between public health and animal health services at the operational level could help overcome these biases in future, and greater harmonisation nationally would increase the value of the dataset.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel Iglesias
- Australian Government Department of Agriculture, Water and the Environment, Canberra, ACT 2600, Australia
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +61-2-6272-5975
| | | | - Hume Field
- EcoHealth Alliance, New York, NY 10018, USA;
- School of Veterinary Science, The University of Queensland, Gatton, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - Lee F. Skerratt
- One Health Research Group, Melbourne Veterinary School, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3010, Australia;
| | - Janine Barrett
- Queensland Department of Agriculture and Fisheries, Brisbane, QLD 4000, Australia;
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14
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Bell SC, Heard GW, Berger L, Skerratt LF. Connectivity over a disease risk gradient enables recovery of rainforest frogs. Ecol Appl 2020; 30:e02152. [PMID: 32343856 DOI: 10.1002/eap.2152] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [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: 09/09/2019] [Revised: 02/14/2020] [Accepted: 03/30/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Chytridiomycosis has been a key driver of global frog declines and extinctions, particularly for high-altitude populations across Australia and the Americas. While recent evidence shows some species are recovering, the extent of such recoveries and the mechanisms underpinning them remain poorly resolved. We surveyed the historical latitudinal and elevational range of four Australian rainforest frogs that disappeared from upland sites between 1989 and 1994 to establish their contemporary distribution and elevational limits, and investigate factors affecting population recovery. Five rainforest streams were surveyed from mountain-base to summit (30 sites in total), with swabs collected from the target species (Litoria dayi, L. nannotis, L. rheocola, and L. serrata) to determine their infection status, and data loggers deployed to measure microclimatic variation across the elevational gradient. Infection probability increased with elevation and canopy cover as it was tightly and inversely correlated with stream-side air temperature. Occupancy patterns suggest varying responses to this disease threat gradient. Two species, L. rheocola and L. serrata, were found over their full historical elevational range (≥1,000 m above sea level [asl]), while L. dayi was not detected above 400 m (formerly known up to 900 m asl) and L. nannotis was not detected above 800 m (formerly known up to 1,200 m asl). Site occupancy probability was negatively related to predicted infection prevalence for L. dayi, L. nannotis, and L. rheocola, but not L. serrata, which appears to now tolerate high fungal burdens. This study highlights the importance of environmental refuges and connectivity across disease risk gradients for the persistence and natural recovery of frogs susceptible to chytridiomycosis. Likewise, in documenting both interspecific variation in recovery rates and intraspecific differences between sites, this study suggests interactions between disease threats and host selection exist that could be manipulated. For example, translocations may be warranted where connectivity is poor or the increase in disease risk is too steep to allow recolonization, combined with assisted selection or use of founders from populations that have already undergone natural selection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara C Bell
- College of Public Health, Medical and Veterinary Sciences, James Cook University, Townsville, Queensland, 4811, Australia
- One Health Research Group, Melbourne Veterinary School, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, University of Melbourne, Werribee, Victoria, 3030, Australia
| | - Geoffrey W Heard
- Institute of Land, Water and Society, Charles Sturt University, Albury, New South Wales, 2640, Australia
- Victorian Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning, Arthur Rylah Institute for Environmental Research, Heidelberg, Victoria, 3084, Australia
| | - Lee Berger
- One Health Research Group, Melbourne Veterinary School, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, University of Melbourne, Werribee, Victoria, 3030, Australia
| | - Lee F Skerratt
- One Health Research Group, Melbourne Veterinary School, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, University of Melbourne, Werribee, Victoria, 3030, Australia
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15
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Webb RJ, Berger L, Skerratt LF, Roberts AA. Corrigendum to "A rapid and inexpensive viability assay for zoospores and zoosporangia of Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis" [Journal of Microbiological Methods 165 (2019) 105688]. J Microbiol Methods 2020; 174:105945. [PMID: 32464428 DOI: 10.1016/j.mimet.2020.105945] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca J Webb
- Molecular & Cell Biology, College of Public Health, Medical & Veterinary Sciences, James Cook University, Townsville, Australia.
| | - Lee Berger
- One Health Research Group, Melbourne Veterinary School, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, University of Melbourne, Werribee, Victoria 3030, Australia
| | - Lee F Skerratt
- One Health Research Group, Melbourne Veterinary School, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, University of Melbourne, Werribee, Victoria 3030, Australia
| | - Alexandra A Roberts
- Molecular & Cell Biology, College of Public Health, Medical & Veterinary Sciences, James Cook University, Townsville, Australia
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16
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Barrett J, Höger A, Agnihotri K, Oakey J, Skerratt LF, Field HE, Meers J, Smith C. An unprecedented cluster of Australian bat lyssavirus in Pteropus conspicillatus indicates pre-flight flying fox pups are at risk of mass infection. Zoonoses Public Health 2020; 67:435-442. [PMID: 32311218 DOI: 10.1111/zph.12703] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [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: 09/04/2019] [Revised: 12/21/2019] [Accepted: 03/06/2020] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
In November 2017, two groups of P. conspicillatus pups from separate locations in Far North Queensland presented with neurological signs consistent with Australian bat lyssavirus (ABLV) infection. These pups (n = 11) died over an 11-day period and were submitted to a government laboratory for testing where ABLV infection was confirmed. Over the next several weeks, additional ABLV cases in flying foxes in Queensland were also detected. Brain tissue from ABLV-infected flying foxes during this period, as well as archived brain tissue, was selected for next-generation sequencing. Phylogenetic analysis suggests that the two groups of pups were each infected from single sources. They were likely exposed while in crèche at night as their dams foraged. This study identifies crèche-age pups at a potentially heightened risk for mass ABLV infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janine Barrett
- Department of Agriculture and Fisheries, Biosecurity Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Alison Höger
- University of Queensland, Gatton, QLD, Australia
| | - Kalpana Agnihotri
- Department of Agriculture and Fisheries, Biosecurity Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Jane Oakey
- Department of Agriculture and Fisheries, Biosecurity Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | | | - Hume E Field
- University of Queensland, Gatton, QLD, Australia.,EcoHealth Alliance, New York, NY, USA
| | - Joanne Meers
- University of Queensland, Gatton, QLD, Australia
| | - Craig Smith
- Department of Agriculture and Fisheries, Biosecurity Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
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17
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Scheele BC, Pasmans F, Skerratt LF, Berger L, Martel A, Beukema W, Acevedo AA, Burrowes PA, Carvalho T, Catenazzi A, De la Riva I, Fisher MC, Flechas SV, Foster CN, Frías-Álvarez P, Garner TWJ, Gratwicke B, Guayasamin JM, Hirschfeld M, Kolby JE, Kosch TA, La Marca E, Lindenmayer DB, Lips KR, Longo AV, Maneyro R, McDonald CA, Mendelson J, Palacios-Rodriguez P, Parra-Olea G, Richards-Zawacki CL, Rödel MO, Rovito SM, Soto-Azat C, Toledo LF, Voyles J, Weldon C, Whitfield SM, Wilkinson M, Zamudio KR, Canessa S. Response to Comment on "Amphibian fungal panzootic causes catastrophic and ongoing loss of biodiversity". Science 2020; 367:367/6484/eaay2905. [PMID: 32193294 DOI: 10.1126/science.aay2905] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2019] [Accepted: 02/20/2020] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Lambert et al question our retrospective and holistic epidemiological assessment of the role of chytridiomycosis in amphibian declines. Their alternative assessment is narrow and provides an incomplete evaluation of evidence. Adopting this approach limits understanding of infectious disease impacts and hampers conservation efforts. We reaffirm that our study provides unambiguous evidence that chytridiomycosis has affected at least 501 amphibian species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ben C Scheele
- Fenner School of Environment and Society, Australian National University, Canberra, ACT 2601, Australia. .,National Environmental Science Programme, Threatened Species Recovery Hub, Canberra, ACT 2601, Australia.,One Health Research Group, Melbourne Veterinary School, University of Melbourne, Werribee, VIC 3030, Australia
| | - Frank Pasmans
- Wildlife Health Ghent, Department of Pathology, Bacteriology, and Avian Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, B-9820 Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - Lee F Skerratt
- One Health Research Group, Melbourne Veterinary School, University of Melbourne, Werribee, VIC 3030, Australia
| | - Lee Berger
- One Health Research Group, Melbourne Veterinary School, University of Melbourne, Werribee, VIC 3030, Australia
| | - An Martel
- Wildlife Health Ghent, Department of Pathology, Bacteriology, and Avian Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, B-9820 Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - Wouter Beukema
- Wildlife Health Ghent, Department of Pathology, Bacteriology, and Avian Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, B-9820 Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - Aldemar A Acevedo
- Programa de Doctorado en Ciencias Biológicas, Laboratorio de Biología Evolutiva, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile.,Grupo de Investigación en Ecología y Biogeografía, Universidad de Pamplona, Barrio El Buque, Pamplona, Colombia
| | | | - Tamilie Carvalho
- Laboratório de História Natural de Anfíbios Brasileiros, Departamento de Biologia Animal, Instituto de Biologia, Universidade Estadual de Campinas, Campinas, Brazil
| | - Alessandro Catenazzi
- Department of Biological Sciences, Florida International University, Miami, FL 33199, USA
| | | | - Matthew C Fisher
- MRC Centre for Global Infectious Disease Analysis, School of Public Health, Imperial College London, London W2 1PG, UK
| | - Sandra V Flechas
- Department of Biological Sciences, Universidad de los Andes, Bogotá, Colombia.,Instituto de Investigación de Recursos Biológicos Alexander von Humboldt, Sede Venado de Oro, Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Claire N Foster
- Fenner School of Environment and Society, Australian National University, Canberra, ACT 2601, Australia
| | - Patricia Frías-Álvarez
- One Health Research Group, Melbourne Veterinary School, University of Melbourne, Werribee, VIC 3030, Australia
| | - Trenton W J Garner
- Institute of Zoology, Zoological Society London, Regents Park, London NW1 4RY, UK.,Unit for Environmental Sciences and Management, North-West University, Potchefstroom 2520, South Africa
| | - Brian Gratwicke
- Smithsonian National Zoological Park and Conservation Biology Institute, Washington, DC 20008, USA
| | - Juan M Guayasamin
- Universidad San Francisco de Quito USFQ, Colegio de Ciencias Biológicas y Ambientales COCIBA, Instituto de Investigaciones Biológicas y Ambientales BIOSFERA, Laboratorio de Biología Evolutiva, Campus Cumbayá, Quito, Ecuador.,Centro de Investigación de la Biodiversidad y Cambio Climático (BioCamb), Ingeniería en Biodiversidad y Cambio Climático, Facultad de Medio Ambiente, Universidad Tecnológica Indoamérica, Calle Machala y Sabanilla, Quito, Ecuador.,Department of Biology, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO 80523, USA
| | - Mareike Hirschfeld
- Museum für Naturkunde, Leibniz Institute for Evolution and Biodiversity Science, Berlin 10115, Germany
| | - Jonathan E Kolby
- One Health Research Group, Melbourne Veterinary School, University of Melbourne, Werribee, VIC 3030, Australia.,Honduras Amphibian Rescue and Conservation Center, Lancetilla Botanical Garden and Research Center, Tela, Honduras.,The Conservation Agency, Jamestown, RI 02835, USA
| | - Tiffany A Kosch
- One Health Research Group, Melbourne Veterinary School, University of Melbourne, Werribee, VIC 3030, Australia.,AL Rae Centre for Genetics and Breeding, Massey University, Palmerston North 4442, New Zealand
| | - Enrique La Marca
- School of Geography, Faculty of Forestry Engineering and Environmental Sciences, University of Los Andes, Merida, Venezuela
| | - David B Lindenmayer
- Fenner School of Environment and Society, Australian National University, Canberra, ACT 2601, Australia.,National Environmental Science Programme, Threatened Species Recovery Hub, Canberra, ACT 2601, Australia
| | - Karen R Lips
- Department of Biology, University of Maryland, College Park, MD 20742, USA
| | - Ana V Longo
- Department of Biology, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611, USA
| | - Raúl Maneyro
- Laboratorio de Sistemática e Historia Natural de Vertebrados, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de la República, CP 11400 Montevideo, Uruguay
| | - Cait A McDonald
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA
| | - Joseph Mendelson
- Zoo Atlanta, Atlanta, GA 30315, USA.,School of Biological Sciences, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA 30332, USA
| | | | - Gabriela Parra-Olea
- Departamento de Zoología, Instituto de Biología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Mexico City, México
| | | | - Mark-Oliver Rödel
- Museum für Naturkunde, Leibniz Institute for Evolution and Biodiversity Science, Berlin 10115, Germany
| | - Sean M Rovito
- Unidad de Genómica Avanzada (Langebio), Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados del Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Irapuato, Guanajuato CP36824, México
| | - Claudio Soto-Azat
- Centro de Investigación para la Sustentabilidad, Facultad de Ciencias de la Vida, Universidad Andres Bello, Santiago 8370251, Chile
| | - Luís Felipe Toledo
- Laboratório de História Natural de Anfíbios Brasileiros, Departamento de Biologia Animal, Instituto de Biologia, Universidade Estadual de Campinas, Campinas, Brazil
| | - Jamie Voyles
- Department of Biology, University of Nevada, Reno, NV 89557, USA
| | - Ché Weldon
- Unit for Environmental Sciences and Management, North-West University, Potchefstroom 2520, South Africa
| | - Steven M Whitfield
- Conservation and Research Department, Zoo Miami, Miami, FL 33177, USA.,School of Earth, Environment, and Society, Florida International University, Miami, FL 33199, USA
| | - Mark Wilkinson
- Department of Life Sciences, Natural History Museum, London SW7 5BD, UK
| | - Kelly R Zamudio
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA
| | - Stefano Canessa
- Wildlife Health Ghent, Department of Pathology, Bacteriology, and Avian Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, B-9820 Merelbeke, Belgium
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18
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Abstract
Abstract
Wildlife health is of emerging relevance for conservation, human health, and domestic animal health. Increased research on wildlife health problems has not been accompanied by a relative increase in effective solutions. Translational research was developed in human health to overcome blocks impeding the development of solutions out of basic research, and a translational research framework is proposed to overcome the same barriers in wildlife health. This framework has four translational phases: problem definition, potential solution development, efficacious solution development, and effective solution development. Implementation of translational research will require a restructuring of the wildlife health research enterprise with a shift, supported by funding sources and journals, to solutions-focused research including later translational phases, the creation of more deeply integrated multidisciplinary and interdisciplinary teams incorporating better representation from human social sciences, and the inclusion of end user and stakeholder participation in all phases of research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew Peters
- Institute of Land, Water and Society and the School of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, Charles Sturt University, Wagga Wagga, Australia
| | - Scott Carver
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Australia
| | - Lee F Skerratt
- Health Research Group, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Anna Meredith
- Melbourne Veterinary School, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
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19
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Wirth W, Schwarzkopf L, Skerratt LF, Tzamouzaki A, Ariel E. Dose-dependent morbidity of freshwater turtle hatchlings, Emydura macquarii krefftii, inoculated with Ranavirus isolate (Bohle iridovirus, Iridoviridae). J Gen Virol 2019; 100:1431-1441. [PMID: 31483246 DOI: 10.1099/jgv.0.001324] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [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: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Ranaviral infections cause mass die-offs in wild and captive turtle populations. Two experimental studies were performed to first determine the susceptibility of an Australian turtle species (Emydura macquarii krefftii) to different routes of infection and second examine the effect of viral titre on the morbidity in hatchlings. All inoculation routes (intracoelomic, intramuscular and oral) produced disease, but the clinical signs, histopathology and time to onset of disease varied with the route. The median infectious and lethal doses for intramuscularly inoculated hatchlings were 102 . 52 (1.98-2.93) and 104.43 (3.81-5.19) TCID50 ml-1, respectively. Clinical signs began 14 to 29 days post-inoculation and the median survival time was 22 days (16-25) across all dose groups. For every 10-fold increase in dose, the odds of developing any clinical signs or severe clinical signs increased by 3.39 [P<0.01, 95 % confidence interval (CI): 1.81-6.36] and 3.71 (P<0.01, 95 % CI: 1.76-7.80), respectively. Skin lesions, previously only reported in ranaviral infection in lizards, were observed in the majority of intramuscularly inoculated hatchlings that developed ranaviral disease. The histological changes were consistent with those in previous reports for reptiles and consisted of necrosis at or near the site of injection, in the spleen, liver and oral cavity. Systemic inflammation was also observed, predominantly affecting necrotic organs. The estimates reported here can be used to model ranaviral disease and quantify and manage at-risk populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wytamma Wirth
- College of Public Health, Medical and Veterinary Sciences, James Cook University, Townsville, QLD, Australia
| | - Lin Schwarzkopf
- College of Science and Engineering, James Cook University, Townsville, QLD, Australia
| | - Lee F Skerratt
- One Health Research Group, Melbourne Veterinary School, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, University of Melbourne, Werribee, Vic, Australia
| | - Anna Tzamouzaki
- College of Public Health, Medical and Veterinary Sciences, James Cook University, Townsville, QLD, Australia
| | - Ellen Ariel
- College of Public Health, Medical and Veterinary Sciences, James Cook University, Townsville, QLD, Australia
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20
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Scheele BC, Pasmans F, Skerratt LF, Berger L, Martel A, Beukema W, Acevedo AA, Burrowes PA, Carvalho T, Catenazzi A, De la Riva I, Fisher MC, Flechas SV, Foster CN, Frías-Álvarez P, Garner TWJ, Gratwicke B, Guayasamin JM, Hirschfeld M, Kolby JE, Kosch TA, La Marca E, Lindenmayer DB, Lips KR, Longo AV, Maneyro R, McDonald CA, Mendelson J, Palacios-Rodriguez P, Parra-Olea G, Richards-Zawacki CL, Rödel MO, Rovito SM, Soto-Azat C, Toledo LF, Voyles J, Weldon C, Whitfield SM, Wilkinson M, Zamudio KR, Canessa S. Amphibian fungal panzootic causes catastrophic and ongoing loss of biodiversity. Science 2019; 363:1459-1463. [PMID: 30923224 DOI: 10.1126/science.aav0379] [Citation(s) in RCA: 531] [Impact Index Per Article: 106.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2018] [Accepted: 02/06/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Anthropogenic trade and development have broken down dispersal barriers, facilitating the spread of diseases that threaten Earth's biodiversity. We present a global, quantitative assessment of the amphibian chytridiomycosis panzootic, one of the most impactful examples of disease spread, and demonstrate its role in the decline of at least 501 amphibian species over the past half-century, including 90 presumed extinctions. The effects of chytridiomycosis have been greatest in large-bodied, range-restricted anurans in wet climates in the Americas and Australia. Declines peaked in the 1980s, and only 12% of declined species show signs of recovery, whereas 39% are experiencing ongoing decline. There is risk of further chytridiomycosis outbreaks in new areas. The chytridiomycosis panzootic represents the greatest recorded loss of biodiversity attributable to a disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ben C Scheele
- Fenner School of Environment and Society, Australian National University, Canberra, ACT 2601, Australia. .,National Environmental Science Programme, Threatened Species Recovery Hub, Canberra, ACT 2601, Australia.,One Health Research Group, Melbourne Veterinary School, The University of Melbourne, Werribee, VIC 3030, Australia
| | - Frank Pasmans
- Wildlife Health Ghent, Department of Pathology, Bacteriology, and Avian Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, B-9820 Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - Lee F Skerratt
- One Health Research Group, Melbourne Veterinary School, The University of Melbourne, Werribee, VIC 3030, Australia
| | - Lee Berger
- One Health Research Group, Melbourne Veterinary School, The University of Melbourne, Werribee, VIC 3030, Australia
| | - An Martel
- Wildlife Health Ghent, Department of Pathology, Bacteriology, and Avian Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, B-9820 Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - Wouter Beukema
- Wildlife Health Ghent, Department of Pathology, Bacteriology, and Avian Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, B-9820 Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - Aldemar A Acevedo
- Programa de Doctorado en Ciencias Biológicas, Laboratorio de Biología Evolutiva, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Avenida Libertador Bernardo O'Higgins 340, Santiago, Chile.,Grupo de Investigación en Ecología y Biogeografía, Universidad de Pamplona, Barrio El Buque, Km 1, Vía a Bucaramanga, Pamplona, Colombia
| | - Patricia A Burrowes
- Department of Biology, University of Puerto Rico, P.O. Box 23360, San Juan, Puerto Rico
| | - Tamilie Carvalho
- Laboratório de História Natural de Anfíbios Brasileiros (LaHNAB), Departamento de Biologia Animal, Instituto de Biologia, Universidade Estadual de Campinas, Campinas, Brazil
| | - Alessandro Catenazzi
- Department of Biological Sciences, Florida International University, Miami, FL 33199, USA
| | - Ignacio De la Riva
- Museo Nacional de Ciencias Naturales-CSIC, C/ José Gutiérrez Abascal 2, Madrid 28006, Spain
| | - Matthew C Fisher
- MRC Centre for Global Infectious Disease Analysis, School of Public Health, Imperial College London, London W2 1PG, UK
| | - Sandra V Flechas
- Department of Biological Sciences, Universidad de los Andes, Bogotá, Colombia.,Instituto de Investigación de Recursos Biológicos Alexander von Humboldt, Sede Venado de Oro, Paseo Bolívar 16-20, Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Claire N Foster
- Fenner School of Environment and Society, Australian National University, Canberra, ACT 2601, Australia
| | - Patricia Frías-Álvarez
- One Health Research Group, Melbourne Veterinary School, The University of Melbourne, Werribee, VIC 3030, Australia
| | - Trenton W J Garner
- Institute of Zoology, Zoological Society London, Regents Park, London NW1 4RY, UK.,Unit for Environmental Sciences and Management, North-West University, Potchefstroom 2520, South Africa
| | - Brian Gratwicke
- Smithsonian National Zoological Park and Conservation Biology Institute, Washington, DC 20008, USA
| | - Juan M Guayasamin
- Universidad San Francisco de Quito USFQ, Colegio de Ciencias Biológicas y Ambientales COCIBA, Instituto de Investigaciones Biológicas y Ambientales BIOSFERA, Laboratorio de Biología Evolutiva, Campus Cumbayá, Quito, Ecuador.,Centro de Investigación de la Biodiversidad y Cambio Climático (BioCamb), Ingeniería en Biodiversidad y Cambio Climático, Facultad de Medio Ambiente, Universidad Tecnológica Indoamérica, Calle Machala y Sabanilla, Quito, Ecuador.,Department of Biology, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO 80523, USA
| | - Mareike Hirschfeld
- Museum für Naturkunde, Leibniz Institute for Evolution and Biodiversity Science, Invalidenstr. 43, Berlin 10115, Germany
| | - Jonathan E Kolby
- One Health Research Group, Melbourne Veterinary School, The University of Melbourne, Werribee, VIC 3030, Australia.,Honduras Amphibian Rescue and Conservation Center, Lancetilla Botanical Garden and Research Center, Tela, Honduras.,The Conservation Agency, Jamestown, RI 02835, USA
| | - Tiffany A Kosch
- One Health Research Group, Melbourne Veterinary School, The University of Melbourne, Werribee, VIC 3030, Australia.,AL Rae Centre for Genetics and Breeding, Massey University, Palmerston North 4442, New Zealand
| | - Enrique La Marca
- School of Geography, Faculty of Forestry Engineering and Environmental Sciences, University of Los Andes, Merida, Venezuela
| | - David B Lindenmayer
- Fenner School of Environment and Society, Australian National University, Canberra, ACT 2601, Australia.,National Environmental Science Programme, Threatened Species Recovery Hub, Canberra, ACT 2601, Australia
| | - Karen R Lips
- Department of Biology, University of Maryland, College Park, MD 20742, USA
| | - Ana V Longo
- Department of Biology, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611, USA
| | - Raúl Maneyro
- Laboratorio de Sistemática e Historia Natural de Vertebrados. Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de la República. Igua 4225, CP 11400, Montevideo, Uruguay
| | - Cait A McDonald
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA
| | - Joseph Mendelson
- Zoo Atlanta, Atlanta, GA 30315, USA.,School of Biological Sciences, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA 30332, USA
| | | | - Gabriela Parra-Olea
- Departamento de Zoología, Instituto de Biología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Mexico City, México
| | | | - Mark-Oliver Rödel
- Museum für Naturkunde, Leibniz Institute for Evolution and Biodiversity Science, Invalidenstr. 43, Berlin 10115, Germany
| | - Sean M Rovito
- Unidad de Genómica Avanzada (Langebio), Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados del Instituto Politécnico Nacional, km 9.6 Libramiento Norte Carretera Irapuato-León, Irapuato, Guanajuato CP36824, México
| | - Claudio Soto-Azat
- Centro de Investigación para la Sustentabilidad, Facultad de Ciencias de la Vida, Universidad Andres Bello, Santiago 8370251, Chile
| | - Luís Felipe Toledo
- Laboratório de História Natural de Anfíbios Brasileiros (LaHNAB), Departamento de Biologia Animal, Instituto de Biologia, Universidade Estadual de Campinas, Campinas, Brazil
| | - Jamie Voyles
- Department of Biology, University of Nevada, Reno, NV 89557, USA
| | - Ché Weldon
- Unit for Environmental Sciences and Management, North-West University, Potchefstroom 2520, South Africa
| | - Steven M Whitfield
- Zoo Miami, Conservation and Research Department, Miami, FL 33177, USA.,Florida International University School of Earth, Environment, and Society, 11200 SW 8th St., Miami, FL 33199, USA
| | - Mark Wilkinson
- Department of Life Sciences, The Natural History Museum, London SW7 5BD, UK
| | - Kelly R Zamudio
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA
| | - Stefano Canessa
- Wildlife Health Ghent, Department of Pathology, Bacteriology, and Avian Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, B-9820 Merelbeke, Belgium
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21
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Webb RJ, Berger L, Skerratt LF, Roberts AA. A rapid and inexpensive viability assay for zoospores and zoosporangia of Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis. J Microbiol Methods 2019; 165:105688. [PMID: 31425713 DOI: 10.1016/j.mimet.2019.105688] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [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: 08/06/2019] [Revised: 08/15/2019] [Accepted: 08/15/2019] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
The fungus Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis is causing global amphibian declines. Here we describe a simple, rapid and inexpensive methylene blue staining protocol to determine B. dendrobatidis viability, regardless of life-stage. The viability of cells in suspension or adherent monolayers can be determined using either manual microscopy counting or colorimetric assay.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca Jane Webb
- Molecular & Cell Biology, College of Public Health, Medical & Veterinary Sciences, James Cook University. Townsville, Australia.
| | - Lee Berger
- One Health Research Group, Melbourne Veterinary School, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, University of Melbourne, Werribee, Victoria 3030, Australia
| | - Lee F Skerratt
- One Health Research Group, Melbourne Veterinary School, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, University of Melbourne, Werribee, Victoria 3030, Australia
| | - Alexandra A Roberts
- Molecular & Cell Biology, College of Public Health, Medical & Veterinary Sciences, James Cook University. Townsville, Australia
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22
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Claytor SC, Gummer JPA, Grogan LF, Skerratt LF, Webb RJ, Brannelly LA, Berger L, Roberts AA. Susceptibility of frogs to chytridiomycosis correlates with increased levels of immunomodulatory serotonin in the skin. Cell Microbiol 2019; 21:e13089. [PMID: 31373151 DOI: 10.1111/cmi.13089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2018] [Revised: 06/03/2019] [Accepted: 07/16/2019] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Chytridiomycosis, caused by the fungus Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis (Bd), is a skin disease responsible for the global decline of amphibians. Frog species and populations can vary in susceptibility, but this phenomenon remains poorly understood. Here, we investigated serotonin in the skin of infected and uninfected frogs. In more susceptible frog populations, skin serotonin rose with increasing infection intensity, but decreased in later stages of the disease. The more resistant population maintained a basal level of skin serotonin. Serotonin inhibited both Bd sporangial growth and Jurkat lymphocyte proliferation in vitro. However, serotonin accumulates in skin granular glands, and this compartmentalisation may prevent inhibition of Bd growth in vivo. We suggest that skin serotonin increases in susceptible frogs due to pathogen excretion of precursor tryptophan, but that resistant frogs are able to control the levels of serotonin. Overall, the immunosuppressive effects of serotonin may contribute to the susceptibility of frogs to chytridiomycosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sieara C Claytor
- College of Public Health, Medical and Veterinary Sciences, James Cook University, Townsville, Australia
| | - Joel P A Gummer
- Separation Science and Metabolomics Laboratory, Murdoch University, Perth, Australia.,Metabolomics Australia, Western Australia Node, Murdoch University, Perth, Australia
| | - Laura F Grogan
- Griffith Wildlife Disease Ecology Group, Environmental Futures Research Institute, School of Environment and Science, Griffith University, Nathan, Australia
| | - Lee F Skerratt
- One Health Research Group, Melbourne Veterinary School, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, University of Melbourne, Werribee, Australia
| | - Rebecca J Webb
- College of Public Health, Medical and Veterinary Sciences, James Cook University, Townsville, Australia
| | - Laura A Brannelly
- One Health Research Group, Melbourne Veterinary School, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, University of Melbourne, Werribee, Australia
| | - Lee Berger
- One Health Research Group, Melbourne Veterinary School, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, University of Melbourne, Werribee, Australia
| | - Alexandra A Roberts
- College of Public Health, Medical and Veterinary Sciences, James Cook University, Townsville, Australia
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23
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Esson C, Skerratt LF, Berger L, Malmsten J, Strand T, Lundkvist Å, Järhult JD, Michaux J, Mijiddorj TN, Bayrakçısmith R, Mishra C, Johansson Ö. Health and zoonotic Infections of snow leopards Panthera unica in the South Gobi desert of Mongolia. Infect Ecol Epidemiol 2019; 9:1604063. [PMID: 31231481 PMCID: PMC6567154 DOI: 10.1080/20008686.2019.1604063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2019] [Accepted: 04/02/2019] [Indexed: 10/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Snow leopards, Panthera uncia, are a threatened apex predator, scattered across the mountains of Central and South Asia. Disease threats to wild snow leopards have not been investigated.Methods and Results: Between 2008 and 2015, twenty snow leopards in the South Gobi desert of Mongolia were captured and immobilised for health screening and radio-collaring. Blood samples and external parasites were collected for pathogen analyses using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), microscopic agglutination test (MAT), and next-generation sequencing (NGS) techniques. The animals showed no clinical signs of disease, however, serum antibodies to significant zoonotic pathogens were detected. These pathogens included, Coxiella burnetii, (25% prevalence), Leptospira spp., (20%), and Toxoplasma gondii (20%). Ticks collected from snow leopards contained potentially zoonotic bacteria from the genera Bacillus, Bacteroides, Campylobacter, Coxiella, Rickettsia, Staphylococcus and Streptococcus.Conclusions: The zoonotic pathogens identified in this study, in the short-term did not appear to cause illness in the snow leopards, but have caused illness in other wild felids. Therefore, surveillance for pathogens should be implemented to monitor for potential longer- term disease impacts on this snow leopard population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carol Esson
- One Health Research Group, College of Public Health, Medical and Veterinary Sciences, James Cook University, Townsville, Australia
| | - Lee F Skerratt
- Melbourne Veterinary School, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Australia
| | - Lee Berger
- Melbourne Veterinary School, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Australia
| | - Jonas Malmsten
- Department of Pathology and Wildlife Diseases, National Veterinary Institute, Uppsala, Sweden.,Department of Wildlife, Fish and Environment Science, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Umeå, Sweden
| | - Tanja Strand
- Zoonosis Science Centre (ZSC), Department of Medical Biochemistry and Microbiology, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Åke Lundkvist
- Zoonosis Science Centre (ZSC), Department of Medical Biochemistry and Microbiology, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Josef D Järhult
- Zoonosis Science Centre (ZSC), Department of Medical Sciences, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Johan Michaux
- Génétique de la conservation Life Sciences, Liege, Belgium
| | | | | | | | - Örjan Johansson
- Grimsö Wildlife Research Station, Department of Ecology, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Riddarhyttan, Sweden.,Snow Leopard Trust, Seattle, WA, USA
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24
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Shima AL, Berger L, Skerratt LF. Conservation and health of Lumholtz’s tree-kangaroo (Dendrolagus lumholtzi). Aust Mammalogy 2019. [DOI: 10.1071/am17030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Lumholtz’s tree-kangaroo (Dendrolagus lumholtzi) is an iconic species in far north Queensland yet little is known about its health or population status. Studies on this species have been conducted in a limited number of locations and focused primarily on ecology, habitat use and home-range size. The species is relatively common in the Atherton Tablelands but habitat loss, predation by domestic, feral and wild dogs, vehicle strike, low fecundity, and disease have been identified as threats to the population. We review knowledge of population ecology and threats for this species, and include a novel collation of disease reports on all tree-kangaroos with particular reference to Lumholtz’s tree-kangaroo. Health of Lumholtz’s tree-kangaroo appears to be impacted by the increase in humans and domestic animals in their range. There have been reports of melioidosis, toxoplasmosis, tick paralysis and blindness in wild tree-kangaroos. We identify where increased information on health and population viability will improve conservation and management of the species.
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25
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Abstract
Ranaviruses can infect many vertebrate classes including fish, amphibians and reptiles, but for the most part, research has been focused on non-reptilian hosts, amphibians in particular. More recently, reports of ranaviral infections of reptiles are increasing with over 12 families of reptiles currently susceptible to ranaviral infection. Reptiles are infected by ranaviruses that are genetically similar to, or the same as, the viruses that infect amphibians and fish; however, physiological and ecological differences result in differences in study designs. Although ranaviral disease in reptiles is often influenced by host species, viral strain and environmental differences, general trends in pathogenesis are emerging. More experimental studies using a variety of reptile species, life stages and routes of transmission are required to unravel the complexity of wild ranavirus transmission. Further, our understanding of the reptilian immune response to ranaviral infection is still lacking, although the considerable amount of work conducted in amphibians will serve as a useful guide for future studies in reptiles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wytamma Wirth
- College of Public Health, Medical and Veterinary Sciences, James Cook University of North Queensland, Townsville, QLD, Australia
| | - Lin Schwarzkopf
- College of Science and Engineering, James Cook University of North Queensland, Townsville, QLD, Australia
| | - Lee F Skerratt
- Melbourne Veterinary School, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Ellen Ariel
- College of Public Health, Medical and Veterinary Sciences, James Cook University of North Queensland, Townsville, QLD, Australia
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26
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Grogan LF, Robert J, Berger L, Skerratt LF, Scheele BC, Castley JG, Newell DA, McCallum HI. Review of the Amphibian Immune Response to Chytridiomycosis, and Future Directions. Front Immunol 2018; 9:2536. [PMID: 30473694 PMCID: PMC6237969 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2018.02536] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [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: 06/29/2018] [Accepted: 10/15/2018] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
The fungal skin disease, chytridiomycosis (caused by Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis and B. salamandrivorans), has caused amphibian declines and extinctions globally since its emergence. Characterizing the host immune response to chytridiomycosis has been a focus of study with the aim of disease mitigation. However, many aspects of the innate and adaptive arms of this response are still poorly understood, likely due to the wide range of species' responses to infection. In this paper we provide an overview of expected immunological responses (with inference based on amphibian and mammalian immunology), together with a synthesis of current knowledge about these responses for the amphibian-chytridiomycosis system. We structure our review around four key immune stages: (1) the naïve immunocompetent state, (2) immune defenses that are always present (constitutive defenses), (3) mechanisms for recognition of a pathogen threat and innate immune defenses, and (4) adaptive immune responses. We also evaluate the current hot topics of immunosuppression and immunopathology in chytridiomycosis, and discuss their respective roles in pathogenesis. Our synthesis reveals that susceptibility to chytridiomycosis is likely to be multifactorial. Susceptible amphibians appear to have ineffective constitutive and innate defenses, and a late-stage response characterized by immunopathology and Bd-induced suppression of lymphocyte responses. Overall, we identify substantial gaps in current knowledge, particularly concerning the entire innate immune response (mechanisms of initial pathogen detection and possible immunoevasion by Bd, degree of activation and efficacy of the innate immune response, the unexpected absence of innate leukocyte infiltration, and the cause and role of late-stage immunopathology in pathogenesis). There are also gaps concerning most of the adaptive immune system (the relative importance of B and T cell responses for pathogen clearance, the capacity and extent of immunological memory, and specific mechanisms of pathogen-induced immunosuppression). Improving our capacity for amphibian immunological research will require selection of an appropriate Bd-susceptible model species, the development of taxon-specific affinity reagents and cell lines for functional assays, and the application of a suite of conventional and emerging immunological methods. Despite current knowledge gaps, immunological research remains a promising avenue for amphibian conservation management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura F Grogan
- Environmental Futures Research Institute and School of Environment and Science, Griffith University, Nathan, QLD, Australia
| | - Jacques Robert
- University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, United States
| | - Lee Berger
- One Health Research Group, College of Public Health, Medical and Veterinary Sciences, James Cook University, Townsville, QLD, Australia.,Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, Melbourne Veterinary School, University of Melbourne, Werribee, VIC, Australia
| | - Lee F Skerratt
- One Health Research Group, College of Public Health, Medical and Veterinary Sciences, James Cook University, Townsville, QLD, Australia.,Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, Melbourne Veterinary School, University of Melbourne, Werribee, VIC, Australia
| | - Benjamin C Scheele
- Fenner School of Environment and Society, The Australian National University, Canberra, ACT, Australia.,Threatened Species Recovery Hub, National Environmental Science Program, Fenner School of Environment and Society, The Australian National University, Canberra, ACT, Australia
| | - J Guy Castley
- Environmental Futures Research Institute and School of Environment and Science, Griffith University, Nathan, QLD, Australia
| | - David A Newell
- Forest Research Centre, School of Environment, Science and Engineering, Southern Cross University, Lismore, NSW, Australia
| | - Hamish I McCallum
- Environmental Futures Research Institute and School of Environment and Science, Griffith University, Nathan, QLD, Australia
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27
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Brannelly LA, Martin G, Llewelyn J, Skerratt LF, Berger L. Age- and size-dependent resistance to chytridiomycosis in the invasive cane toad Rhinella marina. Dis Aquat Organ 2018; 131:107-120. [PMID: 30460917 DOI: 10.3354/dao03278] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [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] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
In Australia, the cane toad Rhinella marina and chytrid fungus Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis (Bd) are examples of invasive species that have had dramatic impacts on native fauna. However, little is known about the interaction between Bd and cane toads. We aimed to explore the interaction of these 2 species in 3 parts. First, we collated data from the literature on Bd infection in wild cane toads. Second, we tested the susceptibility of recently metamorphosed cane toads to Bd infection. Finally, we modelled the distribution of the 2 species in Australia to identify where they overlap and, therefore, might interact. Through our data collation, we found that adult cane toads are infrequently infected and do not carry high infection burdens; however, our infection experiment showed that metamorphs are highly susceptible to infection and disease, but resistance appears to increase with increasing toad size. Niche modelling revealed overlapping distributions and the potential for cane toads to be affected by chytridiomycosis in the wild. While Bd can cause mortality in small juveniles in the laboratory, warm microhabitats used by wild toads likely prevent infection, and furthermore, high mortality of juveniles is unlikely to affect the adult populations because they are highly fecund. However, to demonstrate the impact of Bd on wild cane toad populations, targeted field studies are required to assess (1) the overall impact of chytridiomycosis on recruitment especially in cooler areas more favourable for Bd and (2) whether cane toad juveniles can amplify Bd exposure of native amphibian species in these areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura A Brannelly
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15213, USA
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28
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Martin G, Yanez-Arenas C, Plowright RK, Chen C, Roberts B, Skerratt LF. Hendra Virus Spillover is a Bimodal System Driven by Climatic Factors. Ecohealth 2018; 15:526-542. [PMID: 29349533 DOI: 10.1007/s10393-017-1309-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2016] [Revised: 10/13/2017] [Accepted: 11/13/2017] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
Understanding environmental factors driving spatiotemporal patterns of disease can improve risk mitigation strategies. Hendra virus (HeV), discovered in Australia in 1994, spills over from bats (Pteropus sp.) to horses and thence to humans. Below latitude - 22°, almost all spillover events to horses occur during winter, and above this latitude spillover is aseasonal. We generated a statistical model of environmental drivers of HeV spillover per month. The model reproduced the spatiotemporal pattern of spillover risk between 1994 and 2015. The model was generated with an ensemble of methods for presence-absence data (boosted regression trees, random forests and logistic regression). Presences were the locations of horse cases, and absences per spatial unit (2.7 × 2.7 km pixels without spillover) were sampled with the horse census of Queensland and New South Wales. The most influential factors indicate that spillover is associated with both cold-dry and wet conditions. Bimodal responses to several variables suggest spillover involves two systems: one above and one below a latitudinal area close to - 22°. Northern spillovers are associated with cold-dry and wet conditions, and southern with cold-dry conditions. Biologically, these patterns could be driven by immune or behavioural changes in response to food shortage in bats and horse husbandry. Future research should look for differences in these traits between seasons in the two latitudinal regions. Based on the predicted risk patterns by latitude, we recommend enhanced preventive management for horses from March to November below latitude 22° south.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gerardo Martin
- One Health Research Group, College of Public Health, Medical and Veterinary Sciences, James Cook University, Townsville, QLD, Australia.
| | - Carlos Yanez-Arenas
- Laboratorio de Conservación de la Biodiversidad, Parque Científico y Tecnológico de Yucatán, Universidad, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Mérida, Yucatán, Mexico
| | - Raina K Plowright
- Bozeman Disease Ecology Lab, Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Montana State University, Bozeman, MT, USA
| | - Carla Chen
- Australian Institute of Marine Sciences, Townsville, QLD, Australia
| | - Billie Roberts
- Griffith School of Environment, Griffith University, Nathan, QLD, Australia
| | - Lee F Skerratt
- One Health Research Group, College of Public Health, Medical and Veterinary Sciences, James Cook University, Townsville, QLD, Australia
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29
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Martin G, Yanez-Arenas C, Chen C, Plowright RK, Webb RJ, Skerratt LF. Climate Change Could Increase the Geographic Extent of Hendra Virus Spillover Risk. Ecohealth 2018; 15:509-525. [PMID: 29556762 PMCID: PMC6245089 DOI: 10.1007/s10393-018-1322-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [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: 02/03/2017] [Revised: 12/10/2017] [Accepted: 01/29/2018] [Indexed: 05/29/2023]
Abstract
Disease risk mapping is important for predicting and mitigating impacts of bat-borne viruses, including Hendra virus (Paramyxoviridae:Henipavirus), that can spillover to domestic animals and thence to humans. We produced two models to estimate areas at potential risk of HeV spillover explained by the climatic suitability for its flying fox reservoir hosts, Pteropus alecto and P. conspicillatus. We included additional climatic variables that might affect spillover risk through other biological processes (such as bat or horse behaviour, plant phenology and bat foraging habitat). Models were fit with a Poisson point process model and a log-Gaussian Cox process. In response to climate change, risk expanded southwards due to an expansion of P. alecto suitable habitat, which increased the number of horses at risk by 175-260% (110,000-165,000). In the northern limits of the current distribution, spillover risk was highly uncertain because of model extrapolation to novel climatic conditions. The extent of areas at risk of spillover from P. conspicillatus was predicted shrink. Due to a likely expansion of P. alecto into these areas, it could replace P. conspicillatus as the main HeV reservoir. We recommend: (1) HeV monitoring in bats, (2) enhancing HeV prevention in horses in areas predicted to be at risk, (3) investigate and develop mitigation strategies for areas that could experience reservoir host replacements.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gerardo Martin
- One Health Research Group, College of Public Health, Medical and Veterinary Sciences, James Cook University, Townsville, QLD, Australia.
- , Guadalupe Victoria, Mexico.
- Ecological Health Research Group, Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, Imperial College London, St. Mary's campus, Praed Street, London, W2 1NY, UK.
| | - Carlos Yanez-Arenas
- Laboratorio de Conservación de la Biodiversidad, Parque Científico y Tecnológico de Yucatán, Universidad, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Mérida, Yucatán, Mexico
| | - Carla Chen
- Australian Institute of Marine Sciences, Townsville, QLD, Australia
| | - Raina K Plowright
- Bozeman Disease Ecology Lab, Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Montana State University, Bozeman, MT, USA
| | - Rebecca J Webb
- One Health Research Group, College of Public Health, Medical and Veterinary Sciences, James Cook University, Townsville, QLD, Australia
| | - Lee F Skerratt
- One Health Research Group, College of Public Health, Medical and Veterinary Sciences, James Cook University, Townsville, QLD, Australia
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30
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Brannelly LA, Roberts AA, Skerratt LF, Berger L. Using Terminal Transferase-mediated dUTP Nick End-labelling (TUNEL) and Caspase 3/7 Assays to Measure Epidermal Cell Death in Frogs with Chytridiomycosis. J Vis Exp 2018. [PMID: 29863673 DOI: 10.3791/57345] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Amphibians are experiencing a great loss in biodiversity globally and one of the major causes is the infectious disease chytridiomycosis. This disease is caused by the fungal pathogen Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis (Bd), which infects and disrupts frog epidermis; however, pathological changes have not been explicitly characterized. Apoptosis (programmed cell death) can be used by pathogens to damage host tissue, but can also be a host mechanism of disease resistance for pathogen removal. In this study, we quantify epidermal cell death of infected and uninfected animals using two different assays: terminal transferase-mediated dUTP nick end-labelling (TUNEL), and caspase 3/7. Using ventral, dorsal, and thigh skin tissue in the TUNEL assay, we observe cell death in the epidermal cells in situ of clinically infected animals and compare cell death with uninfected animals using fluorescent microscopy. In order to determine how apoptosis levels in the epidermis change over the course of infection we remove toe-tip samples fortnightly over an 8-week period, and use a caspase 3/7 assay with extracted proteins to quantify activity within the samples. We then correlate caspase 3/7 activity with infection load. The TUNEL assay is useful for localization of cell death in situ, but is expensive and time intensive per sample. The caspase 3/7 assay is efficient for large sample sizes and time course experiments. However, because frog toe tip biopsies are small there is limited extract available for sample standardization via protein quantification methods, such as the Bradford assay. Therefore, we suggest estimating skin surface area through photographic analysis of toe biopsies to avoid consuming extracts during sample standardization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura A Brannelly
- One Health Research Group, College of Public Health, Medical and Veterinary Sciences, James Cook University; Department of Biological Sciences, University of Pittsburgh;
| | - Alexandra A Roberts
- One Health Research Group, College of Public Health, Medical and Veterinary Sciences, James Cook University
| | - Lee F Skerratt
- One Health Research Group, College of Public Health, Medical and Veterinary Sciences, James Cook University
| | - Lee Berger
- One Health Research Group, College of Public Health, Medical and Veterinary Sciences, James Cook University
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O'Hanlon SJ, Rieux A, Farrer RA, Rosa GM, Waldman B, Bataille A, Kosch TA, Murray KA, Brankovics B, Fumagalli M, Martin MD, Wales N, Alvarado-Rybak M, Bates KA, Berger L, Böll S, Brookes L, Clare F, Courtois EA, Cunningham AA, Doherty-Bone TM, Ghosh P, Gower DJ, Hintz WE, Höglund J, Jenkinson TS, Lin CF, Laurila A, Loyau A, Martel A, Meurling S, Miaud C, Minting P, Pasmans F, Schmeller DS, Schmidt BR, Shelton JMG, Skerratt LF, Smith F, Soto-Azat C, Spagnoletti M, Tessa G, Toledo LF, Valenzuela-Sánchez A, Verster R, Vörös J, Webb RJ, Wierzbicki C, Wombwell E, Zamudio KR, Aanensen DM, James TY, Gilbert MTP, Weldon C, Bosch J, Balloux F, Garner TWJ, Fisher MC. Recent Asian origin of chytrid fungi causing global amphibian declines. Science 2018; 360:621-627. [PMID: 29748278 PMCID: PMC6311102 DOI: 10.1126/science.aar1965] [Citation(s) in RCA: 274] [Impact Index Per Article: 45.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2017] [Accepted: 03/29/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Globalized infectious diseases are causing species declines worldwide, but their source often remains elusive. We used whole-genome sequencing to solve the spatiotemporal origins of the most devastating panzootic to date, caused by the fungus Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis, a proximate driver of global amphibian declines. We traced the source of B. dendrobatidis to the Korean peninsula, where one lineage, BdASIA-1, exhibits the genetic hallmarks of an ancestral population that seeded the panzootic. We date the emergence of this pathogen to the early 20th century, coinciding with the global expansion of commercial trade in amphibians, and we show that intercontinental transmission is ongoing. Our findings point to East Asia as a geographic hotspot for B. dendrobatidis biodiversity and the original source of these lineages that now parasitize amphibians worldwide.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simon J O'Hanlon
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology and MRC Centre for Global Infectious Disease Analysis, School of Public Health, Imperial College London, London W2 1PG, UK.
- Institute of Zoology, Regent's Park, London NW1 4RY, UK
| | - Adrien Rieux
- CIRAD, UMR PVBMT, 97410 St. Pierre, Reunion, France
| | - Rhys A Farrer
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology and MRC Centre for Global Infectious Disease Analysis, School of Public Health, Imperial College London, London W2 1PG, UK
| | - Gonçalo M Rosa
- Institute of Zoology, Regent's Park, London NW1 4RY, UK
- Department of Biology, University of Nevada, Reno, NV 89557, USA
- Centre for Ecology, Evolution and Environmental Changes (CE3C), Faculdade de Ciências da Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Bruce Waldman
- Laboratory of Behavioral and Population Ecology, School of Biological Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, South Korea
| | - Arnaud Bataille
- Laboratory of Behavioral and Population Ecology, School of Biological Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, South Korea
- CIRAD, UMR ASTRE, F-34398 Montpellier, France
| | - Tiffany A Kosch
- Laboratory of Behavioral and Population Ecology, School of Biological Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, South Korea
- One Health Research Group, College of Public Health, Medical and Veterinary Sciences, James Cook University, Townsville, Queensland 4811, Australia
| | - Kris A Murray
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology and MRC Centre for Global Infectious Disease Analysis, School of Public Health, Imperial College London, London W2 1PG, UK
| | - Balázs Brankovics
- Westerdijk Fungal Biodiversity Institute, Uppsalalaan 8, 3584CT Utrecht, Netherlands
- Institute of Biodiversity and Ecosystem Dynamics, University of Amsterdam, Science Park 904, 1098 XH Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Matteo Fumagalli
- Department of Life Sciences, Silwood Park Campus, Imperial College London, Ascot, UK
- UCL Genetics Institute, University College London, London WC1E 6BT, UK
| | - Michael D Martin
- Department of Natural History, NTNU University Museum, Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU), Erling Skakkes gate 49, NO-7012 Trondheim, Norway
- Centre for GeoGenetics, Natural History Museum of Denmark, University of Copenhagen, Øster Voldgade 5-7, 1350 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Nathan Wales
- Centre for GeoGenetics, Natural History Museum of Denmark, University of Copenhagen, Øster Voldgade 5-7, 1350 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Mario Alvarado-Rybak
- Centro de Investigación para la Sustentabilidad, Facultad de Ecología y Recursos Naturales, Universidad Andres Bello, Republica 440, Santiago, Chile
| | - Kieran A Bates
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology and MRC Centre for Global Infectious Disease Analysis, School of Public Health, Imperial College London, London W2 1PG, UK
- Institute of Zoology, Regent's Park, London NW1 4RY, UK
| | - Lee Berger
- One Health Research Group, College of Public Health, Medical and Veterinary Sciences, James Cook University, Townsville, Queensland 4811, Australia
| | - Susanne Böll
- Agency for Population Ecology and Nature Conservancy, Gerbrunn, Germany
| | - Lola Brookes
- Institute of Zoology, Regent's Park, London NW1 4RY, UK
| | - Frances Clare
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology and MRC Centre for Global Infectious Disease Analysis, School of Public Health, Imperial College London, London W2 1PG, UK
- Institute of Zoology, Regent's Park, London NW1 4RY, UK
| | - Elodie A Courtois
- Laboratoire Ecologie, Évolution, Interactions des Systèmes Amazoniens (LEEISA), Université de Guyane, CNRS, IFREMER, 97300 Cayenne, French Guiana
| | | | | | - Pria Ghosh
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology and MRC Centre for Global Infectious Disease Analysis, School of Public Health, Imperial College London, London W2 1PG, UK
- Unit for Environmental Sciences and Management, Private Bag x6001, North-West University, Potchefstroom 2520, South Africa
| | - David J Gower
- Life Sciences, Natural History Museum, London SW7 5BD, UK
| | - William E Hintz
- Biology Department, University of Victoria, Victoria, BC V8W 3N5, Canada
| | - Jacob Höglund
- Department of Ecology and Genetics, EBC, Uppsala University, Norbyv. 18D, SE-75236, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Thomas S Jenkinson
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Chun-Fu Lin
- Zoology Division, Endemic Species Research Institute, 1 Ming-shen East Road, Jiji, Nantou 552, Taiwan
| | - Anssi Laurila
- Department of Ecology and Genetics, EBC, Uppsala University, Norbyv. 18D, SE-75236, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Adeline Loyau
- Department of Conservation Biology, Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research-UFZ, 04318 Leipzig, Germany
- EcoLab, Université de Toulouse, CNRS, INPT, UPS, Toulouse, France
| | - An Martel
- Department of Pathology, Bacteriology and Avian Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, B-9820 Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - Sara Meurling
- Department of Ecology and Genetics, EBC, Uppsala University, Norbyv. 18D, SE-75236, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Claude Miaud
- PSL Research University, CEFE UMR 5175, CNRS, Université de Montpellier, Université Paul-Valéry Montpellier, EPHE, Montpellier, France
| | - Pete Minting
- Amphibian and Reptile Conservation (ARC) Trust, Boscombe, Bournemouth, Dorset BH1 4AP, UK
| | - Frank Pasmans
- Department of Pathology, Bacteriology and Avian Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, B-9820 Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - Dirk S Schmeller
- Department of Conservation Biology, Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research-UFZ, 04318 Leipzig, Germany
- EcoLab, Université de Toulouse, CNRS, INPT, UPS, Toulouse, France
| | - Benedikt R Schmidt
- Department of Evolutionary Biology and Environmental Studies, University of Zurich, 8057 Zurich, Switzerland, and Info Fauna Karch, UniMail-Bâtiment G, Bellevaux 51, 2000 Neuchâtel, Switzerland
| | - Jennifer M G Shelton
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology and MRC Centre for Global Infectious Disease Analysis, School of Public Health, Imperial College London, London W2 1PG, UK
| | - Lee F Skerratt
- One Health Research Group, College of Public Health, Medical and Veterinary Sciences, James Cook University, Townsville, Queensland 4811, Australia
| | - Freya Smith
- Institute of Zoology, Regent's Park, London NW1 4RY, UK
- National Wildlife Management Centre, APHA, Woodchester Park, Gloucestershire GL10 3UJ, UK
| | - Claudio Soto-Azat
- Centro de Investigación para la Sustentabilidad, Facultad de Ecología y Recursos Naturales, Universidad Andres Bello, Republica 440, Santiago, Chile
| | | | - Giulia Tessa
- Non-profit Association Zirichiltaggi-Sardinia Wildlife Conservation, Strada Vicinale Filigheddu 62/C, I-07100 Sassari, Italy
| | - Luís Felipe Toledo
- Laboratório de História Natural de Anfíbios Brasileiros (LaHNAB), Departamento de Biologia Animal, Instituto de Biologia, Unicamp, Campinas, Brazil
| | - Andrés Valenzuela-Sánchez
- Centro de Investigación para la Sustentabilidad, Facultad de Ecología y Recursos Naturales, Universidad Andres Bello, Republica 440, Santiago, Chile
- ONG Ranita de Darwin, Nataniel Cox 152, Santiago, Chile
| | - Ruhan Verster
- Unit for Environmental Sciences and Management, Private Bag x6001, North-West University, Potchefstroom 2520, South Africa
| | - Judit Vörös
- Collection of Amphibians and Reptiles, Department of Zoology, Hungarian Natural History Museum, Budapest, Baross u. 13., 1088, Hungary
| | - Rebecca J Webb
- One Health Research Group, College of Public Health, Medical and Veterinary Sciences, James Cook University, Townsville, Queensland 4811, Australia
| | - Claudia Wierzbicki
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology and MRC Centre for Global Infectious Disease Analysis, School of Public Health, Imperial College London, London W2 1PG, UK
| | - Emma Wombwell
- Institute of Zoology, Regent's Park, London NW1 4RY, UK
| | - Kelly R Zamudio
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA
| | - David M Aanensen
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology and MRC Centre for Global Infectious Disease Analysis, School of Public Health, Imperial College London, London W2 1PG, UK
- Centre for Genomic Pathogen Surveillance, Wellcome Genome Campus, Cambridgeshire, UK
| | - Timothy Y James
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - M Thomas P Gilbert
- Department of Natural History, NTNU University Museum, Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU), Erling Skakkes gate 49, NO-7012 Trondheim, Norway
- Centre for GeoGenetics, Natural History Museum of Denmark, University of Copenhagen, Øster Voldgade 5-7, 1350 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Ché Weldon
- Unit for Environmental Sciences and Management, Private Bag x6001, North-West University, Potchefstroom 2520, South Africa
| | - Jaime Bosch
- Museo Nacional de Ciencias Naturales, CSIC c/ Jose Gutierrez Abascal 2, 28006 Madrid, Spain
| | - François Balloux
- UCL Genetics Institute, University College London, London WC1E 6BT, UK
| | - Trenton W J Garner
- Institute of Zoology, Regent's Park, London NW1 4RY, UK
- Unit for Environmental Sciences and Management, Private Bag x6001, North-West University, Potchefstroom 2520, South Africa
- Non-profit Association Zirichiltaggi-Sardinia Wildlife Conservation, Strada Vicinale Filigheddu 62/C, I-07100 Sassari, Italy
| | - Matthew C Fisher
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology and MRC Centre for Global Infectious Disease Analysis, School of Public Health, Imperial College London, London W2 1PG, UK.
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Shima AL, Constantinoiu CC, Johnson LK, Skerratt LF. Echinococcus Granulosus Infection in Two Free-Ranging Lumholtz's Tree-Kangaroo (Dendrolagus lumholtzi) from the Atherton Tablelands, Queensland. Trop Med Infect Dis 2018; 3:tropicalmed3020047. [PMID: 30274443 PMCID: PMC6073813 DOI: 10.3390/tropicalmed3020047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2018] [Revised: 05/01/2018] [Accepted: 05/01/2018] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Infection with the larval stage of the cestode, Echinococcus granulosus sensu lato (s.l.), causes hydatid disease (hydatidosis) in a range of hosts, including macropods and other marsupials, cattle, and humans. Wild macropods are an important sylvatic reservoir for the life cycle of E. granulosus (s.l.) in Australia, and so provide a conduit for transmission of hydatid disease to domestic animals and humans. Two Lumholtz's tree-kangaroos (Dendrolagus lumholtzi) from the Atherton Tablelands of Far North Queensland were recently found to have hydatid cysts in both liver and lung tissues. Tree-kangaroos may travel across the ground between patches of forest but are primarily arboreal leaf-eating macropods. The finding of hydatid cysts in an arboreal folivore may indicate that the area has a high level of contamination with eggs of E. granulosus (s.l.). This finding may be of significance to human health as well as indicating the need for further investigation into the prevalence of hydatid disease in domestic stock, wildlife and humans living in this rapidly urbanizing region.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amy L Shima
- One Health Research Group, College of Public Health, Medical and Veterinary Science (CPHMVS), James Cook University, Townsville, Queensland 4811, Australia.
| | - Constantin C Constantinoiu
- College of Public Health, Medical and Veterinary Science, James Cook University, Townsville, Queensland 4811, Australia.
| | | | - Lee F Skerratt
- One Health Research Group, College of Public Health, Medical and Veterinary Science (CPHMVS), James Cook University, Townsville, Queensland 4811, Australia.
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Roberts AA, Berger L, Robertson SG, Webb RJ, Kosch TA, McFadden M, Skerratt LF, Glass BD, Motti CA, Brannelly LA. The efficacy and pharmacokinetics of terbinafine against the frog-killing fungus (Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis). Med Mycol 2018; 57:204-214. [DOI: 10.1093/mmy/myy010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra A Roberts
- One Health Research Group, College of Public Health, Medical and Veterinary Sciences, James Cook University, Townsville, Australia
- Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, University of Melbourne, Australia
| | - Lee Berger
- One Health Research Group, College of Public Health, Medical and Veterinary Sciences, James Cook University, Townsville, Australia
- Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, University of Melbourne, Australia
| | - Sherryl G Robertson
- Pharmacy, College of Medicine and Dentistry, James Cook University, Townsville, Australia
| | - Rebecca J Webb
- One Health Research Group, College of Public Health, Medical and Veterinary Sciences, James Cook University, Townsville, Australia
| | - Tiffany A Kosch
- One Health Research Group, College of Public Health, Medical and Veterinary Sciences, James Cook University, Townsville, Australia
- Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, University of Melbourne, Australia
| | - Michael McFadden
- Taronga Conservation Society Australia, Herpetofauna Division, Mosman, Australia
| | - Lee F Skerratt
- One Health Research Group, College of Public Health, Medical and Veterinary Sciences, James Cook University, Townsville, Australia
- Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, University of Melbourne, Australia
| | - Beverley D Glass
- Pharmacy, College of Medicine and Dentistry, James Cook University, Townsville, Australia
| | - Cherie A Motti
- Australian Institute of Marine Science, Townsville, Australia
| | - Laura A Brannelly
- One Health Research Group, College of Public Health, Medical and Veterinary Sciences, James Cook University, Townsville, Australia
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburg, Pennsylvania, USA
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Grogan LF, Cashins SD, Skerratt LF, Berger L, McFadden MS, Harlow P, Hunter DA, Scheele BC, Mulvenna J. Evolution of resistance to chytridiomycosis is associated with a robust early immune response. Mol Ecol 2018; 27:919-934. [DOI: 10.1111/mec.14493] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2016] [Revised: 06/30/2017] [Accepted: 09/18/2017] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Laura F. Grogan
- One Health Research Group College of Public Health, Medical and Veterinary Sciences James Cook University Townsville QLD Australia
- Griffith Wildlife Disease Ecology Group Environmental Futures Research Institute School of Environment Griffith University Nathan QLD Australia
- Genetics and Computational Biology QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute Brisbane QLD Australia
| | - Scott D. Cashins
- One Health Research Group College of Public Health, Medical and Veterinary Sciences James Cook University Townsville QLD Australia
| | - Lee F. Skerratt
- One Health Research Group College of Public Health, Medical and Veterinary Sciences James Cook University Townsville QLD Australia
| | - Lee Berger
- One Health Research Group College of Public Health, Medical and Veterinary Sciences James Cook University Townsville QLD Australia
| | | | - Peter Harlow
- Taronga Conservation Society Australia Mosman NSW Australia
| | - David A. Hunter
- Ecosystems and Threatened Species South West Region Office of Environment and Heritage NSW Department of Premier and Cabinet Queanbeyan NSW Australia
| | - Ben C. Scheele
- One Health Research Group College of Public Health, Medical and Veterinary Sciences James Cook University Townsville QLD Australia
- Fenner School of Environment and Society Australian National University Canberra ACT Australia
| | - Jason Mulvenna
- Genetics and Computational Biology QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute Brisbane QLD Australia
- School of Biomedical Sciences The University of Queensland Brisbane QLD Australia
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Hoskin CJ, Hines HB, Webb RJ, Skerratt LF, Berger L. Naïve rainforest frogs on Cape York, Australia, are at risk of the introduction of amphibian chytridiomycosis disease. AUST J ZOOL 2018. [DOI: 10.1071/zo18041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Amphibian chytridiomycosis disease has caused widespread declines and extinctions of frogs in cool, wet habitats in eastern Australia. Screening suggests that the disease does not yet occupy all areas modelled to be environmentally suitable, including rainforests on Cape York Peninsula. Cape Melville is an area of rainforest with several endemic frogs, including the stream-associated Melville Range treefrog (Litoria andiirrmalin), which is deemed at particular risk of disease impacts. We tested 40 L. andiirrmalin for chytrid infection by PCR and found them all to be negative. In conjunction with previous testing at another high-risk location, McIlwraith Range, this suggests that endemic rainforest frogs on Cape York have been spared the introduction of chytridiomycosis. We discuss how the disease could get to these areas, what can be done to reduce the risk, and suggest an emergency procedure should it be introduced.
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Brannelly LA, Webb R, Skerratt LF, Berger L. Amphibians with infectious disease increase their reproductive effort: evidence for the terminal investment hypothesis. Open Biol 2017; 6:rsob.150251. [PMID: 27358291 PMCID: PMC4929933 DOI: 10.1098/rsob.150251] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [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: 11/19/2015] [Accepted: 06/01/2016] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Mounting an immune response to fight disease is costly for an organism and can reduce investment in another life-history trait, such as reproduction. The terminal investment hypothesis predicts that an organism will increase reproductive effort when threatened by disease. The reproductive fitness of amphibians infected with the deadly fungal pathogen Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis (Bd) is largely unknown. In this study, we explored gametogenesis in two endangered and susceptible frog species, Pseudophryne corroboree and Litoria verreauxii alpina. Gametogenesis, both oogenesis and spermatogenesis, increased when animals were experimentally infected with Bd. In P. corroboree, infected males have thicker germinal epithelium, and a larger proportion of spermatocytes. In L. v. alpina, infected males had more spermatic cell bundles in total, and a larger proportion of spermatozoa bundles. In female L. v. alpina, ovaries and oviducts were larger in infected animals, and there were more cells present within the ovaries. Terminal investment has consequences for the evolution of disease resistance in declining species. If infected animals are increasing reproductive efforts and producing more offspring before succumbing to disease, it is possible that population-level selection for disease resistance will be minimized.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura A Brannelly
- One Health Research Group, College of Public Health, Medical and Veterinary Sciences, James Cook University, Townsville, Queensland, Australia
| | - Rebecca Webb
- One Health Research Group, College of Public Health, Medical and Veterinary Sciences, James Cook University, Townsville, Queensland, Australia
| | - Lee F Skerratt
- One Health Research Group, College of Public Health, Medical and Veterinary Sciences, James Cook University, Townsville, Queensland, Australia Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Lee Berger
- One Health Research Group, College of Public Health, Medical and Veterinary Sciences, James Cook University, Townsville, Queensland, Australia Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
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Scheele BC, Skerratt LF, Hunter DA, Banks SC, Pierson JC, Driscoll DA, Byrne PG, Berger L. Disease-associated change in an amphibian life-history trait. Oecologia 2017; 184:825-833. [DOI: 10.1007/s00442-017-3911-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2016] [Accepted: 07/06/2017] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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Martin G, Webb RJ, Chen C, Plowright RK, Skerratt LF. Microclimates Might Limit Indirect Spillover of the Bat Borne Zoonotic Hendra Virus. Microb Ecol 2017; 74:106-115. [PMID: 28091706 PMCID: PMC5784440 DOI: 10.1007/s00248-017-0934-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [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: 09/26/2016] [Accepted: 01/06/2017] [Indexed: 05/22/2023]
Abstract
Infectious diseases are transmitted when susceptible hosts are exposed to pathogen particles that can replicate within them. Among factors that limit transmission, the environment is particularly important for indirectly transmitted parasites. To try and assess a pathogens' ability to be transmitted through the environment and mitigate risk, we need to quantify its decay where transmission occurs in space such as the microclimate harbouring the pathogen. Hendra virus, a Henipavirus from Australian Pteropid bats, spills-over to horses and humans, causing high mortality. While a vaccine is available, its limited uptake has reduced opportunities for adequate risk management to humans, hence the need to develop synergistic preventive measures, like disrupting its transmission pathways. Transmission likely occurs shortly after virus excretion in paddocks; however, no survival estimates to date have used real environmental conditions. Here, we recorded microclimate conditions and fitted models that predict temperatures and potential evaporation, which we used to simulate virus survival with a temperature-survival model and modification based on evaporation. Predicted survival was lower than previously estimated and likely to be even lower according to potential evaporation. Our results indicate that transmission should occur shortly after the virus is excreted, in a relatively direct way. When potential evaporation is low, and survival is more similar to temperature dependent estimates, transmission might be indirect because the virus can wait several hours until contact is made. We recommend restricting horses' access to trees during night time and reducing grass under trees to reduce virus survival.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gerardo Martin
- College of Public Health, Medical and Veterinary Sciences, One Health Research Group, James Cook University, DB41-106, 1 James Cook Dr, Townsville City, QLD, 4811, Australia.
| | - Rebecca J Webb
- College of Public Health, Medical and Veterinary Sciences, One Health Research Group, James Cook University, DB41-106, 1 James Cook Dr, Townsville City, QLD, 4811, Australia
| | - Carla Chen
- Australian Institute of Marine Sciences, Townsville, QLD, Australia
| | | | - Lee F Skerratt
- College of Public Health, Medical and Veterinary Sciences, One Health Research Group, James Cook University, DB41-106, 1 James Cook Dr, Townsville City, QLD, 4811, Australia
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Scheele BC, Hunter DA, Brannelly LA, Skerratt LF, Driscoll DA. Reservoir-host amplification of disease impact in an endangered amphibian. Conserv Biol 2017; 31:592-600. [PMID: 27594575 DOI: 10.1111/cobi.12830] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [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: 04/10/2015] [Revised: 04/20/2016] [Accepted: 08/29/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Emerging wildlife pathogens are an increasing threat to biodiversity. One of the most serious wildlife diseases is chytridiomycosis, caused by the fungal pathogen, Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis (Bd), which has been documented in over 500 amphibian species. Amphibians vary greatly in their susceptibility to Bd; some species tolerate infection, whereas others experience rapid mortality. Reservoir hosts-species that carry infection while maintaining high abundance but are rarely killed by disease-can increase extinction risk in highly susceptible, sympatric species. However, whether reservoir hosts amplify Bd in declining amphibian species has not been examined. We investigated the role of reservoir hosts in the decline of the threatened northern corroboree frog (Pseudophryne pengilleyi) in an amphibian community in southeastern Australia. In the laboratory, we characterized the response of a potential reservoir host, the (nondeclining) common eastern froglet (Crinia signifera), to Bd infection. In the field, we conducted frog abundance surveys and Bd sampling for both P. pengilleyi and C. signifera. We built multinomial logistic regression models to test whether Crinia signifera and environmental factors were associated with P. pengilleyi decline. C. signifera was a reservoir host for Bd. In the laboratory, many individuals maintained intense infections (>1000 zoospore equivalents) over 12 weeks without mortality, and 79% of individuals sampled in the wild also carried infections. The presence of C. signifera at a site was strongly associated with increased Bd prevalence in sympatric P. pengilleyi. Consistent with disease amplification by a reservoir host, P. pengilleyi declined at sites with high C. signifera abundance. Our results suggest that when reservoir hosts are present, population declines of susceptible species may continue long after the initial emergence of Bd, highlighting an urgent need to assess extinction risk in remnant populations of other declined amphibian species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ben C Scheele
- Fenner School of Environment and Society, Australian National University, Canberra, ACT, 2601, Australia
- One Health Research Group, College of Public Health, Medical and Veterinary Sciences, James Cook University, Townsville, Queensland, 4811, Australia
| | - David A Hunter
- New South Wales Office of Environment and Heritage, Albury, NSW, 2640, Australia
| | - Laura A Brannelly
- One Health Research Group, College of Public Health, Medical and Veterinary Sciences, James Cook University, Townsville, Queensland, 4811, Australia
| | - Lee F Skerratt
- One Health Research Group, College of Public Health, Medical and Veterinary Sciences, James Cook University, Townsville, Queensland, 4811, Australia
| | - Don A Driscoll
- Centre for Integrative Ecology, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Deakin University, Burwood, 3125, Australia
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Smout FA, Skerratt LF, Butler JRA, Johnson CN, Congdon BC, Thompson RCA. The hookworm Ancylostoma ceylanicum: An emerging public health risk in Australian tropical rainforests and Indigenous communities. One Health 2017; 3:66-69. [PMID: 28616506 PMCID: PMC5454165 DOI: 10.1016/j.onehlt.2017.04.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [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: 11/02/2016] [Revised: 04/12/2017] [Accepted: 04/25/2017] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Ancylostoma ceylanicum is the common hookworm of domestic dogs and cats throughout Asia, and is an emerging but little understood public health risk in tropical northern Australia. We investigated the prevalence of A. ceylanicum in soil and free-ranging domestic dogs at six rainforest locations in Far North Queensland that are Indigenous Australian communities and popular tourist attractions within the Wet Tropics World Heritage Area. By combining PCR-based techniques with traditional methods of hookworm species identification, we found the prevalence of hookworm in Indigenous community dogs was high (96.3% and 91.9% from necropsy and faecal samples, respectively). The majority of these infections were A. caninum. We also observed, for the first time, the presence of A. ceylanicum infection in domestic dogs (21.7%) and soil (55.6%) in an Indigenous community. A. ceylanicum was present in soil samples from two out of the three popular tourist locations sampled. Our results contribute to the understanding of dogs as a public health risk to Indigenous communities and tourists in the Wet Tropics. Dog health needs to be more fully addressed as part of the Australian Government's commitments to “closing the gap” in chronic disease between Indigenous and other Australians, and encouraging tourism in similar locations. Ancylostoma ceylanicum is the common hookworm of domestic dogs and cats throughout Asia. A. ceylanicum is an emerging public health risk in tropical northern Australia. A first time account of A. ceylanicum infection in domestic dogs in an Indigenous community. A. ceylanicum was present in soil samples from two out of three popular tourist locations sampled. Dogs may be a public health risk to Indigenous communities and tourists in the Wet Tropics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Felicity A Smout
- One Health Research Group, College of Public Health, Medical and Vet Sciences, James Cook University, Townsville, Queensland 4811, Australia.,College of Science & Engineering, James Cook University, Cairns, Queensland 4870, Australia
| | - Lee F Skerratt
- One Health Research Group, College of Public Health, Medical and Vet Sciences, James Cook University, Townsville, Queensland 4811, Australia
| | - James R A Butler
- CSIRO Land and Water, EcoSciences Precinct, GPO Box 2583, Brisbane, Queensland 4001, Australia
| | - Christopher N Johnson
- School of Biological Sciences and Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Biodiversity and Heritage, University of Tasmania, Private Bag 55, Hobart, Tasmania 7001, Australia
| | - Bradley C Congdon
- College of Science & Engineering, James Cook University, Cairns, Queensland 4870, Australia
| | - R C Andrew Thompson
- School of Veterinary and Life Sciences, Murdoch University, Murdoch, Western Australia 6150, Australia
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Smout F, Schrieber L, Speare R, Skerratt LF. More bark than bite: Comparative studies are needed to determine the importance of canine zoonoses in Aboriginal communities. A critical review of published research. Zoonoses Public Health 2017; 64:495-504. [PMID: 28342271 PMCID: PMC7159129 DOI: 10.1111/zph.12354] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2016] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
The objective of this review was to identify and critique over forty years of peer‐reviewed literature concerned with the transmission of canine zoonoses to Aboriginal people and determine the zoonotic organisms documented in dogs in Australian Aboriginal communities. A systematic literature search of public health, medical and veterinary databases identified 19 articles suitable for critical appraisal. Thirteen articles documented the occurrence of recognized zoonotic organisms in dogs in Aboriginal communities, including Toxocara canis, Dirofilaria immitis, Streptococcus dysgalactiae, Rickettsia felis, Sarcoptes scabiei and Giardia. Currently, there is definitive evidence indicating that dogs act as a reservoir for human scabies in Aboriginal communities. However, there is a need for large‐scale, high‐quality, comparative studies of dogs and humans from the same household to assess the occurrence and importance of transmission of S. scabiei and other diseases between dogs and humans. These studies should use current genetic and molecular techniques along with traditional techniques to identify and type organisms in order to better understand their epidemiology. This review has revealed that there is a lack of high‐quality comparative studies to determine whether dogs are contributing to human disease by transmitting zoonoses. Our recommendations differ significantly from current public health policy and may have substantial implications for human and dog health.
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Affiliation(s)
- F Smout
- One Health Research Group, College of Public Health, Medical and Veterinary Sciences, James Cook University, Townsville, Qld, Australia.,Centre for Tropical Environmental and Sustainability Sciences (TESS) and College of Marine and Environmental Sciences, James Cook University, Cairns, Qld, Australia
| | - L Schrieber
- One Health Research Group, College of Public Health, Medical and Veterinary Sciences, James Cook University, Townsville, Qld, Australia.,Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW, Australia
| | | | - L F Skerratt
- One Health Research Group, College of Public Health, Medical and Veterinary Sciences, James Cook University, Townsville, Qld, Australia
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Abstract
BACKGROUND Amphibians are declining at an alarming rate, and one of the major causes of decline is the infectious disease chytridiomycosis. Parasitic fungal sporangia occur within epidermal cells causing epidermal disruption, but these changes have not been well characterised. Apoptosis (planned cell death) can be a damaging response to the host but may alternatively be a mechanism of pathogen removal for some intracellular infections. METHODS In this study we experimentally infected two endangered amphibian species Pseudophryne corroboree and Litoria verreauxii alpina with the causal agent of chytridiomycosis. We quantified cell death in the epidermis through two assays: terminal transferase-mediated dUTP nick end-labelling (TUNEL) and caspase 3/7. RESULTS Cell death was positively associated with infection load and morbidity of clinically infected animals. In infected amphibians, TUNEL positive cells were concentrated in epidermal layers, correlating to the localisation of infection within the skin. Caspase activity was stable and low in early infection, where pathogen loads were light but increasing. In animals that recovered from infection, caspase activity gradually returned to normal as the infection cleared. Whereas, in amphibians that did not recover, caspase activity increased dramatically when infection loads peaked. DISCUSSION Increased cell death may be a pathology of the fungal parasite, likely contributing to loss of skin homeostatic functions, but it is also possible that apoptosis suppression may be used initially by the pathogen to help establish infection. Further research should explore the specific mechanisms of cell death and more specifically apoptosis regulation during fungal infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura A Brannelly
- One Health Research Group, College of Public Health, Medical and Veterinary Sciences, James Cook University , Townsville , QLD , Australia
| | - Alexandra A Roberts
- One Health Research Group, College of Public Health, Medical and Veterinary Sciences, James Cook University , Townsville , QLD , Australia
| | - Lee F Skerratt
- One Health Research Group, College of Public Health, Medical and Veterinary Sciences, James Cook University, Townsville, QLD, Australia; Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Lee Berger
- One Health Research Group, College of Public Health, Medical and Veterinary Sciences, James Cook University, Townsville, QLD, Australia; Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
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43
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Kosch TA, Eimes JA, Didinger C, Brannelly LA, Waldman B, Berger L, Skerratt LF. Characterization of MHC class IA in the endangered southern corroboree frog. Immunogenetics 2016; 69:165-174. [DOI: 10.1007/s00251-016-0965-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2016] [Accepted: 11/29/2016] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
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44
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Grillo VL, Arzey KE, Hansbro PM, Hurt AC, Warner S, Bergfeld J, Burgess GW, Cookson B, Dickason CJ, Ferenczi M, Hollingsworth T, Hoque M, Jackson RB, Klaassen M, Kirkland PD, Kung NY, Lisovski S, O'Dea MA, O'Riley K, Roshier D, Skerratt LF, Tracey JP, Wang X, Woods R, Post L. Avian influenza in Australia: a summary of 5 years of wild bird surveillance. Aust Vet J 2016; 93:387-93. [PMID: 26503532 DOI: 10.1111/avj.12379] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2014] [Revised: 05/20/2015] [Accepted: 05/25/2015] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Avian influenza viruses (AIVs) are found worldwide in numerous bird species, causing significant disease in gallinaceous poultry and occasionally other species. Surveillance of wild bird reservoirs provides an opportunity to add to the understanding of the epidemiology of AIVs. METHODS This study examined key findings from the National Avian Influenza Wild Bird Surveillance Program over a 5-year period (July 2007-June 2012), the main source of information on AIVs circulating in Australia. RESULTS The overall proportion of birds that tested positive for influenza A via PCR was 1.9 ± 0.1%, with evidence of widespread exposure of Australian wild birds to most low pathogenic avian influenza (LPAI) subtypes (H1-13, H16). LPAI H5 subtypes were found to be dominant and widespread during this 5-year period. CONCLUSION Given Australia's isolation, both geographically and ecologically, it is important for Australia not to assume that the epidemiology of AIV from other geographic regions applies here. Despite all previous highly pathogenic avian influenza outbreaks in Australian poultry being attributed to H7 subtypes, widespread detection of H5 subtypes in wild birds may represent an ongoing risk to the Australian poultry industry.
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Affiliation(s)
- V L Grillo
- Wildlife Health Australia, Mosman, New South Wales, Australia.
| | - K E Arzey
- Virology Laboratory, Elizabeth Macarthur Agricultural Institute, New South Wales Department of Primary Industries, Camden, NSW, Australia
| | - P M Hansbro
- Centre for Asthma and Respiratory Disease, Hunter Medical Research Institute and University of Newcastle, Newcastle, NSW, Australia
| | - A C Hurt
- WHO Collaborating Centre for Reference and Research on Influenza, North Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - S Warner
- Department of Economic Development, Jobs, Transport and Resource, Bundoora, VIC, Australia
| | - J Bergfeld
- Australian Animal Health Laboratory, CSIRO Animal Food and Health Sciences, Geelong, VIC, Australia
| | - G W Burgess
- One Health Research Group, College of Public Health, Medical and Veterinary Sciences, James Cook University, Townsville, QLD, Australia
| | - B Cookson
- Australian Government Department of Agriculture, Cairns, QLD, Australia
| | - C J Dickason
- Biosecurity SA, Primary Industries & Regions, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - M Ferenczi
- Centre for Integrative Ecology, Deakin University, Geelong, VIC, Australia
| | | | - Mda Hoque
- One Health Research Group, College of Public Health, Medical and Veterinary Sciences, James Cook University, Townsville, QLD, Australia
| | - R B Jackson
- Department of Primary Industries, Parks, Water and Environment, Launceston, TAS, Australia
| | - M Klaassen
- Centre for Integrative Ecology, Deakin University, Geelong, VIC, Australia
| | - P D Kirkland
- Virology Laboratory, Elizabeth Macarthur Agricultural Institute, New South Wales Department of Primary Industries, Camden, NSW, Australia
| | - N Y Kung
- Biosecurity Queensland, Department of Agriculture and Fisheries, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - S Lisovski
- Centre for Integrative Ecology, Deakin University, Geelong, VIC, Australia
| | - M A O'Dea
- Department of Agriculture and Food, South Perth, WA, Australia
| | - K O'Riley
- Department of Economic Development, Jobs, Transport and Resource, Bundoora, VIC, Australia
| | - D Roshier
- Centre for Integrative Ecology, Deakin University, Geelong, VIC, Australia
| | - L F Skerratt
- One Health Research Group, College of Public Health, Medical and Veterinary Sciences, James Cook University, Townsville, QLD, Australia
| | - J P Tracey
- Vertebrate Pest Research Unit, New South Wales Department of Primary Industries, Forest Road, Orange, NSW, Australia
| | - X Wang
- Department of Economic Development, Jobs, Transport and Resource, Bundoora, VIC, Australia
| | - R Woods
- Wildlife Health Australia, Mosman, New South Wales, Australia
| | - L Post
- Australian Government Department of Agriculture, Canberra, ACT, Australia
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Berger L, Skerratt LF, Beveridge I, Spratt DM. In Memory of Rick Speare. Ecohealth 2016; 13:435-437. [PMID: 27539086 DOI: 10.1007/s10393-016-1151-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2016] [Accepted: 07/19/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Lee Berger
- One Health Research Group, College of Public Health, Medical and Veterinary Sciences, James Cook University, Townsville, QLD, 4811, Australia.
| | - Lee F Skerratt
- One Health Research Group, College of Public Health, Medical and Veterinary Sciences, James Cook University, Townsville, QLD, 4811, Australia
| | - Ian Beveridge
- Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, 3010, Australia
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46
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Scheele BC, Hunter DA, Banks SC, Pierson JC, Skerratt LF, Webb R, Driscoll DA. High adult mortality in disease‐challenged frog populations increases vulnerability to drought. J Anim Ecol 2016; 85:1453-1460. [DOI: 10.1111/1365-2656.12569] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2016] [Accepted: 06/21/2016] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Ben C. Scheele
- Fenner School of Environment and Society College of Medicine Biology and Environment Australian National University Canberra ACT 0200 Australia
- One Health Research Group College of Public Health, Medical and Veterinary Sciences James Cook University 1 James Cook Drive Townsville City QLD 4811 Australia
| | - David A. Hunter
- NSW Office of Environment and Heritage PO Box 544 Albury NSW 2640 Australia
| | - Sam C. Banks
- Fenner School of Environment and Society College of Medicine Biology and Environment Australian National University Canberra ACT 0200 Australia
| | - Jennifer C. Pierson
- Fenner School of Environment and Society College of Medicine Biology and Environment Australian National University Canberra ACT 0200 Australia
| | - Lee F. Skerratt
- One Health Research Group College of Public Health, Medical and Veterinary Sciences James Cook University 1 James Cook Drive Townsville City QLD 4811 Australia
| | - Rebecca Webb
- One Health Research Group College of Public Health, Medical and Veterinary Sciences James Cook University 1 James Cook Drive Townsville City QLD 4811 Australia
| | - Don A. Driscoll
- Centre for Integrative Ecology School of Life and Environmental Sciences Deakin University Burwood Vic 3125 Australia
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47
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Martin GA, Yanez-Arenas C, Roberts BJ, Chen C, Plowright RK, Webb RJ, Skerratt LF. Climatic suitability influences species specific abundance patterns of Australian flying foxes and risk of Hendra virus spillover. One Health 2016; 2:115-121. [PMID: 28616484 PMCID: PMC5441320 DOI: 10.1016/j.onehlt.2016.07.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [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: 01/13/2016] [Revised: 07/21/2016] [Accepted: 07/27/2016] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Hendra virus is a paramyxovirus of Australian flying fox bats. It was first detected in August 1994, after the death of 20 horses and one human. Since then it has occurred regularly within a portion of the geographical distribution of all Australian flying fox (fruit bat) species. There is, however, little understanding about which species are most likely responsible for spillover, or why spillover does not occur in other areas occupied by reservoir and spillover hosts. Using ecological niche models of the four flying fox species we were able to identify which species are most likely linked to spillover events using the concept of distance to the niche centroid of each species. With this novel approach we found that 20 out of 27 events occur disproportionately closer to the niche centroid of two species (P. alecto and P. conspicillatus). With linear regressions we found a negative relationship between distance to the niche centroid and abundance of these two species. Thus, we suggest that the bioclimatic niche of these two species is likely driving the spatial pattern of spillover of Hendra virus into horses and ultimately humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gerardo A Martin
- One Health Research Group, College of Public Health, Medical and Veterinary Sciences, James Cook University, Townsville, QLD, Australia
| | - Carlos Yanez-Arenas
- Laboratorio de Conservación de la Biodiversidad, Parque Científico y Tecnológico de Yucatán, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Mérida, Yucatán, México
| | - Billie J Roberts
- School of Environment, Griffith University, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Carla Chen
- One Health Research Group, College of Public Health, Medical and Veterinary Sciences, James Cook University, Townsville, QLD, Australia
| | - Raina K Plowright
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Montana State University, Bozeman, MT, USA
| | - Rebecca J Webb
- One Health Research Group, College of Public Health, Medical and Veterinary Sciences, James Cook University, Townsville, QLD, Australia
| | - Lee F Skerratt
- One Health Research Group, College of Public Health, Medical and Veterinary Sciences, James Cook University, Townsville, QLD, Australia
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48
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Brannelly LA, Webb RJ, Skerratt LF, Berger L. Effects of chytridiomycosis on hematopoietic tissue in the spleen, kidney and bone marrow in three diverse amphibian species. Pathog Dis 2016; 74:ftw069. [DOI: 10.1093/femspd/ftw069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/11/2016] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
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49
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Peel AJ, Field HE, Reid PA, Plowright RK, Broder CC, Skerratt LF, Hayman DTS, Restif O, Taylor M, Martin G, Crameri G, Smith I, Baker M, Marsh GA, Barr J, Breed AC, Wood JLN, Dhand N, Toribio JA, Cunningham AA, Fulton I, Bryden WL, Secombe C, Wang LF. The equine Hendra virus vaccine remains a highly effective preventative measure against infection in horses and humans: 'The imperative to develop a human vaccine for the Hendra virus in Australia'. Infect Ecol Epidemiol 2016; 6:31658. [PMID: 27151273 PMCID: PMC4858501 DOI: 10.3402/iee.v6.31658] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Alison J Peel
- Environmental Futures Research Institute, Griffith University, Nathan, QLD, Australia
| | | | - Peter A Reid
- Australian Veterinary Association Representative, Queensland Government Hendra virus Interagency Technical Working Group, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Raina K Plowright
- Department of Microbiology & Immunology, Montana State University, Bozeman, MT, USA
| | - Christopher C Broder
- Department of Microbiology & Immunology, Uniformed Services University, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Lee F Skerratt
- One Health Research Group, College of Public Health, Medical and Veterinary Sciences, James Cook University, Townsville, QLD, Australia
| | - David T S Hayman
- mEpiLab, Infectious Disease Research Centre, Hopkirk Research Institute, Massey University, Palmerston North, New Zealand
| | - Olivier Restif
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Melanie Taylor
- Department of Psychology, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Gerardo Martin
- One Health Research Group, College of Public Health, Medical and Veterinary Sciences, James Cook University, Townsville, QLD, Australia
| | - Gary Crameri
- CSIRO Australian Animal Health Laboratory, Geelong, VIC, Australia
| | - Ina Smith
- CSIRO Australian Animal Health Laboratory, Geelong, VIC, Australia
| | - Michelle Baker
- CSIRO Australian Animal Health Laboratory, Geelong, VIC, Australia
| | - Glenn A Marsh
- CSIRO Australian Animal Health Laboratory, Geelong, VIC, Australia
| | - Jennifer Barr
- CSIRO Australian Animal Health Laboratory, Geelong, VIC, Australia
| | - Andrew C Breed
- Department of Epidemiological Sciences, Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA), Surrey, United Kingdom
| | - James L N Wood
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Navneet Dhand
- Faculty of Veterinary Science, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Jenny-Ann Toribio
- Faculty of Veterinary Science, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Andrew A Cunningham
- Institute of Zoology, Zoological Society of London, NW1 4RY London, United Kingdom
| | - Ian Fulton
- President Equine Veterinarians Australia, St Leonards, NSW, Australia
| | - Wayne L Bryden
- Equine Research Unit, School of Agriculture and Food Sciences, University of Queensland, Gatton, QLD, Australia
| | - Cristy Secombe
- School of Veterinary and Life Sciences, Murdoch University, Murdoch, WA, Australia
| | - Lin-Fa Wang
- Programme in Emerging Infectious Diseases, Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore
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50
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Grogan LF, Phillott AD, Scheele BC, Berger L, Cashins SD, Bell SC, Puschendorf R, Skerratt LF. Endemicity of chytridiomycosis features pathogen overdispersion. J Anim Ecol 2016; 85:806-16. [PMID: 26847143 DOI: 10.1111/1365-2656.12500] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [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: 07/02/2015] [Accepted: 01/20/2016] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Pathogens can be critical drivers of the abundance and distribution of wild animal populations. The presence of an overdispersed pathogen load distribution between hosts (where few hosts harbour heavy parasite burdens and light infections are common) can have an important stabilizing effect on host-pathogen dynamics where infection intensity determines pathogenicity. This may potentially lead to endemicity of an introduced pathogen rather than extirpation of the host and/or pathogen. Overdispersed pathogen load distributions have rarely been considered in wild animal populations as an important component of the infection dynamics of microparasites such as bacteria, viruses, protozoa and fungi. Here we examined the abundance, distribution and transmission of the model fungal pathogen Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis (Bd, cause of amphibian chytridiomycosis) between wild-caught Litoria rheocola (common mist frogs) to investigate the effects of an overdispersed pathogen load distribution on the host population in the wild. We quantified host survival, infection incidence and recovery probabilities relative to infectious burden, and compared the results of models where pathogen overdispersion either was or was not considered an important feature of host-pathogen dynamics. We found the distribution of Bd load between hosts to be highly overdispersed. We found that host survival was related to infection burden and that accounting for pathogen overdispersion allowed us to better understand infection dynamics and their implications for disease control. In addition, we found that the pattern of host infections and recoveries varied markedly with season whereby (i) infections established more in winter, consistent with temperature-dependent effects on fungal growth, and (ii) recoveries (loss of infection) occurred frequently in the field throughout the year but were less likely in winter. Our results suggest that pathogen overdispersion is an important feature of endemic chytridiomycosis and that intensity of infection determines disease impact. These findings have important implications for our understanding of chytridiomycosis dynamics and the application of management strategies for disease mitigation. We recommend quantifying individual infectious burdens rather than infection state where possible in microparasitic diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura F Grogan
- One Health Research Group, College of Public Health, Medicine and Veterinary Sciences, James Cook University, 1 James Cook Drive, Townsville City, QLD, 4811, Australia.,Griffith Wildlife Disease Ecology Group, Environmental Futures Research Institute, School of Environment, Griffith University, 170 Kessels Road, Nathan, QLD, 4111, Australia
| | - Andrea D Phillott
- One Health Research Group, College of Public Health, Medicine and Veterinary Sciences, James Cook University, 1 James Cook Drive, Townsville City, QLD, 4811, Australia.,Biological Sciences, Asian University for Women, Mohammed Ali Road, Chittagong, Bangladesh
| | - Benjamin C Scheele
- One Health Research Group, College of Public Health, Medicine and Veterinary Sciences, James Cook University, 1 James Cook Drive, Townsville City, QLD, 4811, Australia.,Fenner School of Environment and Society, College of Medicine, Biology and Environment, Australian National University, Canberra, ACT, 0200, Australia
| | - Lee Berger
- One Health Research Group, College of Public Health, Medicine and Veterinary Sciences, James Cook University, 1 James Cook Drive, Townsville City, QLD, 4811, Australia
| | - Scott D Cashins
- One Health Research Group, College of Public Health, Medicine and Veterinary Sciences, James Cook University, 1 James Cook Drive, Townsville City, QLD, 4811, Australia
| | - Sara C Bell
- One Health Research Group, College of Public Health, Medicine and Veterinary Sciences, James Cook University, 1 James Cook Drive, Townsville City, QLD, 4811, Australia.,Australian Institute of Marine Science, 1526 Cape Cleveland Road, Cape Cleveland, Townsville City, QLD, 4810, Australia
| | - Robert Puschendorf
- School of Biological Sciences, Plymouth University, Drake Circus, Plymouth, PL4 8AA, UK
| | - Lee F Skerratt
- One Health Research Group, College of Public Health, Medicine and Veterinary Sciences, James Cook University, 1 James Cook Drive, Townsville City, QLD, 4811, Australia
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