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Zhang H, Zhang L, Ren G, Si H, Song X, Liu X, Suo X, Hu D. Forward genetic analysis of monensin and diclazuril resistance in Eimeria tenella. Int J Parasitol Drugs Drug Resist 2023; 22:44-51. [PMID: 37247559 PMCID: PMC10238932 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpddr.2023.05.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2023] [Revised: 05/01/2023] [Accepted: 05/18/2023] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
Worldwide distributed coccidiosis is caused by infection of both Eimeria species and Cystoisospora in the host intestine and causes huge economic losses to the livestock industry, especially the poultry industry. The control of such diseases relies mainly on chemoprophylaxis with anticoccidials, which has led to a very common drug resistance in this field. However, the genetic mechanisms underlying resistance to many anticoccidial drugs remain unknown. In this study, strains of E. tenella resistant to 250 mg/kg monensin were generated and characterized. Forward genetic approaches based on pooled genome sequencing, including experimental evolution and linkage group selection, were used to locate candidate targets responsible for resistance to monensin and diclazuril in E. tenella. A total of 16 nonsynonymous mutants in protein-coding genes were identified in monensin-resistant strains, and two genomic regions with strong selection signals were also detected in diclazuril-resistant strains. Our study reveals the genetic characterization of the experimental evolution and linkage group selection in Eimeria species, and also provides important information that contributes to the understanding of the molecular mechanism of drug resistance in coccidia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongtao Zhang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Guangxi University, China
| | - Lei Zhang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Guangxi University, China
| | - Ganglin Ren
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Guangxi University, China
| | - Hongbin Si
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Guangxi University, China; Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region Engineering Research Center of Veterinary Biologics, China; Guangxi Key Laboratory of Animal Breeding, Disease Control and Prevention, Nanning, 530004, China
| | - Xingju Song
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Guangxi University, China; Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region Engineering Research Center of Veterinary Biologics, China; Guangxi Key Laboratory of Animal Breeding, Disease Control and Prevention, Nanning, 530004, China
| | - Xianyong Liu
- Key Laboratory of Animal Epidemiology and Zoonosis of Ministry of Agriculture, National Animal Protozoa Laboratory, College of Veterinary Medicine, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Xun Suo
- Key Laboratory of Animal Epidemiology and Zoonosis of Ministry of Agriculture, National Animal Protozoa Laboratory, College of Veterinary Medicine, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Dandan Hu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Guangxi University, China; Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region Engineering Research Center of Veterinary Biologics, China; Guangxi Key Laboratory of Animal Breeding, Disease Control and Prevention, Nanning, 530004, China.
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2
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Gong Z, Yin H, Ma X, Liu B, Han Z, Gou L, Cai J. Widespread 5-methylcytosine in the genomes of avian Coccidia and other apicomplexan parasites detected by an ELISA-based method. Parasitol Res 2017; 116:1573-1579. [PMID: 28361273 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-017-5434-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2016] [Accepted: 03/21/2017] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
To date, little is known about cytosine methylation in the genomic DNA of apicomplexan parasites, although it has been confirmed that this important epigenetic modification exists in many lower eukaryotes, plants, and animals. In the present study, ELISA-based detection demonstrated that low levels of 5-methylcytosine (5-mC) are present in Eimeria spp., Toxoplasma gondii, Cryptosporidium spp., and Neospora caninum. The proportions of 5-mC in genomic DNA were 0.18 ± 0.02% in E tenella sporulated oocysts, 0.19 ± 0.01% in E. tenella second-generation merozoites, 0.22 ± 0.04% in T. gondii tachyzoites, 0.28 ± 0.03% in N. caninum tachyzoites, and 0.06 ± 0.01, 0.11 ± 0.01, and 0.09 ± 0.01% in C. andersoni, C. baileyi, and C. parvum sporulated oocysts, respectively. In addition, we found that the percentages of 5-mC in E. tenella varied considerably at different life stages, with sporozoites having the highest percentage of 5-mC (0.78 ± 0.10%). Similar stage differences in 5-mC were also found in E. maxima, E. necatrix, and E. acervulina, the levels of 5-mC in their sporozoites being 4.3-, 1.8-, 2.5-, and 2.0-fold higher than that of sporulated oocysts, respectively (p < 0.01). Furthermore, a total DNA methyltransferase-like activity was detected in whole cell extracts prepared from E. tenella sporozoites. In conclusion, genomic DNA methylation is present in these apicomplexan parasites and may play a role in the stage conversion of Eimeria.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhenxing Gong
- State Key Laboratory of Veterinary Etiological Biology; Key Laboratory of Veterinary Parasitology of Gansu Province, Lanzhou Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Science, Lanzhou, Gansu Province, 730046, People's Republic of China.,Jiangsu Co-Innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Animal Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, Yangzhou, Jiangsu Province, 225009, People's Republic of China
| | - Hao Yin
- State Key Laboratory of Veterinary Etiological Biology; Key Laboratory of Veterinary Parasitology of Gansu Province, Lanzhou Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Science, Lanzhou, Gansu Province, 730046, People's Republic of China.,Jiangsu Co-Innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Animal Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, Yangzhou, Jiangsu Province, 225009, People's Republic of China
| | - Xueting Ma
- State Key Laboratory of Veterinary Etiological Biology; Key Laboratory of Veterinary Parasitology of Gansu Province, Lanzhou Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Science, Lanzhou, Gansu Province, 730046, People's Republic of China.,Jiangsu Co-Innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Animal Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, Yangzhou, Jiangsu Province, 225009, People's Republic of China
| | - Baohong Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Veterinary Etiological Biology; Key Laboratory of Veterinary Parasitology of Gansu Province, Lanzhou Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Science, Lanzhou, Gansu Province, 730046, People's Republic of China.,Jiangsu Co-Innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Animal Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, Yangzhou, Jiangsu Province, 225009, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhenglan Han
- State Key Laboratory of Veterinary Etiological Biology; Key Laboratory of Veterinary Parasitology of Gansu Province, Lanzhou Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Science, Lanzhou, Gansu Province, 730046, People's Republic of China.,Jiangsu Co-Innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Animal Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, Yangzhou, Jiangsu Province, 225009, People's Republic of China
| | - Lingqiao Gou
- State Key Laboratory of Veterinary Etiological Biology; Key Laboratory of Veterinary Parasitology of Gansu Province, Lanzhou Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Science, Lanzhou, Gansu Province, 730046, People's Republic of China.,Jiangsu Co-Innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Animal Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, Yangzhou, Jiangsu Province, 225009, People's Republic of China
| | - Jianping Cai
- State Key Laboratory of Veterinary Etiological Biology; Key Laboratory of Veterinary Parasitology of Gansu Province, Lanzhou Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Science, Lanzhou, Gansu Province, 730046, People's Republic of China. .,Jiangsu Co-Innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Animal Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, Yangzhou, Jiangsu Province, 225009, People's Republic of China.
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Clark EL, Macdonald SE, Thenmozhi V, Kundu K, Garg R, Kumar S, Ayoade S, Fornace KM, Jatau ID, Moftah A, Nolan MJ, Sudhakar NR, Adebambo AO, Lawal IA, Álvarez Zapata R, Awuni JA, Chapman HD, Karimuribo E, Mugasa CM, Namangala B, Rushton J, Suo X, Thangaraj K, Srinivasa Rao ASR, Tewari AK, Banerjee PS, Dhinakar Raj G, Raman M, Tomley FM, Blake DP. Cryptic Eimeria genotypes are common across the southern but not northern hemisphere. Int J Parasitol 2016; 46:537-44. [PMID: 27368611 PMCID: PMC4978698 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpara.2016.05.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.9] [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: 03/08/2016] [Revised: 05/20/2016] [Accepted: 05/24/2016] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
The seven Eimeria spp. recognised to infect chickens are present globally. Cryptic Eimeria operational taxonomic units (OTUs) are common in the southern but not northern hemisphere. Parasite population structure appears to vary between Eimeria spp.
The phylum Apicomplexa includes parasites of medical, zoonotic and veterinary significance. Understanding the global distribution and genetic diversity of these protozoa is of fundamental importance for efficient, robust and long-lasting methods of control. Eimeria spp. cause intestinal coccidiosis in all major livestock animals and are the most important parasites of domestic chickens in terms of both economic impact and animal welfare. Despite having significant negative impacts on the efficiency of food production, many fundamental questions relating to the global distribution and genetic variation of Eimeria spp. remain largely unanswered. Here, we provide the broadest map yet of Eimeria occurrence for domestic chickens, confirming that all the known species (Eimeria acervulina, Eimeria brunetti, Eimeria maxima, Eimeria mitis, Eimeria necatrix, Eimeria praecox, Eimeria tenella) are present in all six continents where chickens are found (including 21 countries). Analysis of 248 internal transcribed spacer sequences derived from 17 countries provided evidence of possible allopatric diversity for species such as E. tenella (FST values ⩽0.34) but not E. acervulina and E. mitis, and highlighted a trend towards widespread genetic variance. We found that three genetic variants described previously only in Australia and southern Africa (operational taxonomic units x, y and z) have a wide distribution across the southern, but not the northern hemisphere. While the drivers for such a polarised distribution of these operational taxonomic unit genotypes remains unclear, the occurrence of genetically variant Eimeria may pose a risk to food security and animal welfare in Europe and North America should these parasites spread to the northern hemisphere.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily L Clark
- Department of Pathology and Pathogen Biology, Royal Veterinary College, North Mymms, Hertfordshire, UK
| | - Sarah E Macdonald
- Department of Pathology and Pathogen Biology, Royal Veterinary College, North Mymms, Hertfordshire, UK
| | - V Thenmozhi
- Department of Veterinary Parasitology, Madras Veterinary College, Tamil Nadu Veterinary and Animal Sciences University, Chennai, India
| | - Krishnendu Kundu
- Division of Parasitology, Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Izatnagar, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Rajat Garg
- Division of Parasitology, Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Izatnagar, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Saroj Kumar
- Division of Parasitology, Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Izatnagar, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Simeon Ayoade
- Department of Animal Breeding and Genetics, Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, Ogun State, Nigeria
| | - Kimberly M Fornace
- Department of Pathology and Pathogen Biology, Royal Veterinary College, North Mymms, Hertfordshire, UK
| | - Isa Danladi Jatau
- Department of Parasitology and Entomology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, Nigeria
| | - Abdalgader Moftah
- School of Agriculture, Food and Rural Development, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Matthew J Nolan
- Department of Pathology and Pathogen Biology, Royal Veterinary College, North Mymms, Hertfordshire, UK
| | - N R Sudhakar
- Division of Parasitology, Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Izatnagar, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - A O Adebambo
- Department of Animal Breeding and Genetics, Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, Ogun State, Nigeria
| | - I A Lawal
- Department of Parasitology and Entomology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, Nigeria
| | - Ramón Álvarez Zapata
- Universidad Central de Venezuela, Facultad de Agronomía Instituto de Producción Animal, Av. Universidad via El Limón, Maracay, Venezuela
| | | | - H David Chapman
- Department of Poultry Science, University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, AR, USA
| | - Esron Karimuribo
- Southern African Centre for Infectious Disease Surveillance, Morogoro, Tanzania
| | - Claire M Mugasa
- Department of Biotechnical and Diagnostic sciences College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal resources and Biosecurity, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Boniface Namangala
- Department of Paraclinical Studies, University of Zambia, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Jonathan Rushton
- Production and Population Health, Royal Veterinary College, North Mymms, Hertfordshire, UK
| | - Xun Suo
- National Animal Protozoa Laboratory & College of Veterinary Medicine, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | | | | | - Anup K Tewari
- Division of Parasitology, Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Izatnagar, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Partha S Banerjee
- Division of Parasitology, Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Izatnagar, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - G Dhinakar Raj
- Department of Animal Biotechnology, Madras Veterinary College, Tamil Nadu Veterinary and Animal Sciences University, Chennai, India
| | - M Raman
- Department of Veterinary Parasitology, Madras Veterinary College, Tamil Nadu Veterinary and Animal Sciences University, Chennai, India
| | - Fiona M Tomley
- Department of Pathology and Pathogen Biology, Royal Veterinary College, North Mymms, Hertfordshire, UK
| | - Damer P Blake
- Department of Pathology and Pathogen Biology, Royal Veterinary College, North Mymms, Hertfordshire, UK.
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Barkway CP, Pocock RL, Vrba V, Blake DP. Loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) assays for the species-specific detection of Eimeria that infect chickens. J Vis Exp 2015. [PMID: 25741643 PMCID: PMC4354661 DOI: 10.3791/52552] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Eimeria species parasites, protozoa which cause the enteric disease coccidiosis, pose a serious threat to the production and welfare of chickens. In the absence of effective control clinical coccidiosis can be devastating. Resistance to the chemoprophylactics frequently used to control Eimeria is common and sub-clinical infection is widespread, influencing feed conversion ratios and susceptibility to other pathogens such as Clostridium perfringens. Despite the availability of polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-based tools, diagnosis of Eimeria infection still relies almost entirely on traditional approaches such as lesion scoring and oocyst morphology, but neither is straightforward. Limitations of the existing molecular tools include the requirement for specialist equipment and difficulties accessing DNA as template. In response a simple field DNA preparation protocol and a panel of species-specific loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) assays have been developed for the seven Eimeria recognised to infect the chicken. We now provide a detailed protocol describing the preparation of genomic DNA from intestinal tissue collected post-mortem, followed by setup and readout of the LAMP assays. Eimeria species-specific LAMP can be used to monitor parasite occurrence, assessing the efficacy of a farm's anticoccidial strategy, and to diagnose sub-clinical infection or clinical disease with particular value when expert surveillance is unavailable.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Rebecca L Pocock
- Department of Pathology and Pathogen Biology, Royal Veterinary College, London
| | - Vladimir Vrba
- BIOPHARM, Research Institute of Biopharmacy and Veterinary Drugs
| | - Damer P Blake
- Department of Pathology and Pathogen Biology, Royal Veterinary College, London;
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Cha JO, Talha AFSM, Lim CW, Kim B. Effects of glass bead size, vortexing speed and duration on Eimeria acervulina oocyst excystation. Exp Parasitol 2014; 138:18-24. [PMID: 24457170 DOI: 10.1016/j.exppara.2014.01.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2013] [Revised: 12/01/2013] [Accepted: 01/07/2014] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Improved methods for efficient excystation of Eimeria should be developed and standardized for future Eimeria-related studies. Here, the effects of different glass bead sizes (0.5, 1, 2, and 2.5 mm), and various vortex speeds (1000, 2000, and 3000 rpm) and durations (30 s, 1, 3, and 5 min) have been examined for Eimeria (E.) acervulina oocyst excystation. At 3000 rpm, all glass beads, regardless of size, efficiently ruptured E. acervulina oocysts at 5 min. At 2000 and 3000 rpm, all four glass bead sizes increasingly ruptured oocysts in a time-dependent manner. In contrast, at 1000 rpm the excystation efficiency was not related with the glass bead size or with vortexing duration. It appeared that the 1mm glass beads are most efficient for E. acervulina DNA extraction at a 3000 rpm vortexing speed for 3 and 5 min. The 2 mm glass beads delicately released the highest number of intact sporocysts at 2000 rpm for 3 min. Therefore, our data can provide valuable information for the efficient mechanical excystation of E. acervulina.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jang-Ock Cha
- Biosafety Research Institute and Laboratory of Pathology, College of Veterinary Medicine (BK21 Plus Program), Chonbuk National University, Jeonju, Republic of Korea
| | - Abul Fatah Shah Muhammad Talha
- Biosafety Research Institute and Laboratory of Pathology, College of Veterinary Medicine (BK21 Plus Program), Chonbuk National University, Jeonju, Republic of Korea
| | - Chae Woong Lim
- Biosafety Research Institute and Laboratory of Pathology, College of Veterinary Medicine (BK21 Plus Program), Chonbuk National University, Jeonju, Republic of Korea
| | - Bumseok Kim
- Biosafety Research Institute and Laboratory of Pathology, College of Veterinary Medicine (BK21 Plus Program), Chonbuk National University, Jeonju, Republic of Korea.
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Godwin RM, Morgan JAT. A simple, one-tube assay for the simultaneous detection and diagnosis of ten Australian poultryEimeria. Electrophoresis 2013; 35:494-502. [DOI: 10.1002/elps.201300286] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2013] [Revised: 10/01/2013] [Accepted: 10/03/2013] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Rosamond M. Godwin
- Agri-Science Queensland; Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry St. Lucia; QLD Australia
- Poultry CRC; University of New England; Armidale NSW Australia
| | - Jess A. T. Morgan
- Queensland Alliance for Agriculture and Food Innovation (QAAFI); The University of Queensland; St. Lucia QLD Australia
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Kumar S, Garg R, Moftah A, Clark EL, Macdonald SE, Chaudhry AS, Sparagano O, Banerjee PS, Kundu K, Tomley FM, Blake DP. An optimised protocol for molecular identification of Eimeria from chickens. Vet Parasitol 2013; 199:24-31. [PMID: 24138724 PMCID: PMC3858809 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2013.09.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [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: 07/03/2013] [Revised: 09/13/2013] [Accepted: 09/20/2013] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Molecular approaches supporting identification of Eimeria parasites infecting chickens have been available for more than 20 years, although they have largely failed to replace traditional measures such as microscopy and pathology. Limitations of microscopy-led diagnostics, including a requirement for specialist parasitological expertise and low sample throughput, are yet to be outweighed by the difficulties associated with accessing genomic DNA from environmental Eimeria samples. A key step towards the use of Eimeria species-specific PCR as a sensitive and reproducible discriminatory tool for use in the field is the production of a standardised protocol that includes sample collection and DNA template preparation, as well as primer selection from the numerous PCR assays now published. Such a protocol will facilitate development of valuable epidemiological datasets which may be easily compared between studies and laboratories. The outcome of an optimisation process undertaken in laboratories in India and the UK is described here, identifying four steps. First, samples were collected into a 2% (w/v) potassium dichromate solution. Second, oocysts were enriched by flotation in saturated saline. Third, genomic DNA was extracted using a QIAamp DNA Stool mini kit protocol including a mechanical homogenisation step. Finally, nested PCR was carried out using previously published primers targeting the internal transcribed spacer region 1 (ITS-1). Alternative methods tested included sample processing in the presence of faecal material, DNA extraction using a traditional phenol/chloroform protocol, the use of SCAR multiplex PCR (one tube and two tube versions) and speciation using the morphometric tool COCCIMORPH for the first time with field samples.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saroj Kumar
- Division of Parasitology, Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Izatnagar 243 122, Uttar Pradesh, India
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Jeanes C, Vaughan-Higgins R, Green RE, Sainsbury AW, Marshall RN, Blake DP. Two new Eimeria species parasitic in corncrakes (Crex crex) (Gruiformes: Rallidae) in the United Kingdom. J Parasitol 2013; 99:634-8. [PMID: 23347228 DOI: 10.1645/12-52.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
In this study we describe 2 new species of coccidia (Apicomplexa: Eimeriidae) parasites isolated from the feces of corncrake (Crex crex) (Gruiformes: Rallidae), bred in captivity in the U.K. Oocysts of Eimeria crecis n. sp. were approximately spherical and measured 15.3 μm (13-18) × 14.3 (12-16), providing an oocyst shape index of 1.1. A micropyle and oocyst residuum were absent, but a polar granule was present. Oocysts of Eimeria nenei n. sp. were ellipsoidal and measured 23.6 (21-26) × 18.1 (17-20), providing an oocyst shape index of 1.3. A micropyle and polar granule were present. Surveying free-living, wild adult corncrakes in Scotland (U.K.) demonstrated both parasite species to be widespread. These are the first species described to infect the corncrake, and they are distinct from those previously found to infect members of the closely related crane family (Gruiformes: Gruidae). Partial amplification and sequencing of the 18S rRNA gene and internal transcribed spacer 2 indicated a close relationship between the 2 proposed new species as a group distinct from the Eimeria species known to infect cranes. These newly identified parasite species have been associated with enteric disease in corncrakes being prepared for reproduction in captivity and reintroduction into England (U.K.).
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Affiliation(s)
- C Jeanes
- Royal Veterinary College, Department of Pathology and Infectious Diseases, University of London, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, UK
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Kumar A, Misra P, Dube A. Amplified fragment length polymorphism: an adept technique for genome mapping, genetic differentiation, and intraspecific variation in protozoan parasites. Parasitol Res 2012; 112:457-66. [DOI: 10.1007/s00436-012-3238-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2012] [Accepted: 12/06/2012] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
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Blake DP, Alias H, Billington KJ, Clark EL, Mat-isa M, Mohamad A, Mohd-amin M, Tay Y, Smith AL, Tomley FM, Wan K. EmaxDB: Availability of a first draft genome sequence for the apicomplexan Eimeria maxima. Mol Biochem Parasitol 2012; 184:48-51. [DOI: 10.1016/j.molbiopara.2012.03.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2011] [Revised: 01/31/2012] [Accepted: 03/12/2012] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
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Clark JD, Oakes RD, Redhead K, Crouch CF, Francis MJ, Tomley FM, Blake DP. Eimeria species parasites as novel vaccine delivery vectors: Anti-Campylobacter jejuni protective immunity induced by Eimeria tenella-delivered CjaA. Vaccine 2012; 30:2683-8. [DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2012.02.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2011] [Revised: 01/27/2012] [Accepted: 02/01/2012] [Indexed: 10/14/2022]
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Goh MY, Pan MZ, Blake DP, Wan KL, Song BK. Eimeria maxima phosphatidylinositol 4-phosphate 5-kinase: locus sequencing, characterization, and cross-phylum comparison. Parasitol Res 2011; 108:611-20. [PMID: 20938684 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-010-2104-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [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: 09/05/2010] [Accepted: 09/23/2010] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
Phosphatidylinositol 4-phosphate 5-kinase (PIP5K) may play an important role in host-cell invasion by the Eimeria species, protozoan parasites which can cause severe intestinal disease in livestock. Here, we report the structural organization of the PIP5K gene in Eimeria maxima (Weybridge strain). Two E. maxima BAC clones carrying the E. maxima PIP5K (EmPIP5K) coding sequences were selected for shotgun sequencing, yielding a 9.1-kb genomic segment. The EmPIP5K coding region was initially identified using in silico gene-prediction approaches and subsequently confirmed by mapping rapid amplification of cDNA ends and RT-PCR-generated cDNA sequence to its genomic segment. The putative EmPIP5K gene was located at position 710-8036 nt on the complimentary strand and comprised of 23 exons. Alignment of the 1147 amino acid sequence with previously annotated PIP5K proteins from other Apicomplexa species detected three conserved motifs encompassing the kinase core domain, which has been shown by previous protein deletion studies to be necessary for PIP5K protein function. Phylogenetic analysis provided further evidence that the putative EmPIP5K protein is orthologous to that of other Apicomplexa. Subsequent comparative gene structure characterization revealed events of intron loss/gain throughout the evolution of the apicomplexan PIP5K gene. Further scrutiny of the genomic structure revealed a possible trend towards "intron gain" between two of the motif regions. Our findings offer preliminary insights into the structural variations that have occurred during the evolution of the PIP5K locus and may aid in understanding the functional role of this gene in the cellular biology of apicomplexan parasites.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mei-Yen Goh
- School of Science, Monash University Sunway Campus, Jalan Lagoon Selatan, 46150 Bandar Sunway, Selangor, DE, Malaysia
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Lizundia R, Newman C, Buesching CD, Ngugi D, Blake D, Sin YW, Macdonald DW, Wilson A, McKeever D. Evidence for a role of the host-specific flea (Paraceras melis) in the transmission of Trypanosoma (Megatrypanum) pestanai to the European badger. PLoS One 2011; 6:e16977. [PMID: 21340028 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0016977] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2010] [Accepted: 01/14/2011] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
We investigated the epidemiology of Trypanosoma pestanai infection in European badgers (Meles meles) from Wytham Woods (Oxfordshire, UK) to determine prevalence rates and to identify the arthropod vector responsible for transmission. A total of 245 badger blood samples was collected during September and November 2009 and examined by PCR using primers derived from the 18S rRNA of T. pestanai. The parasite was detected in blood from 31% of individuals tested. T. pestanai was isolated from primary cultures of Wytham badger peripheral blood mononuclear cells and propagated continually in vitro. This population was compared with cultures of two geographically distinct isolates of the parasite by amplified fragment length polymorphism (AFLP) and PCR analysis of 18S rDNA and ITS1 sequences. High levels of genotypic polymorphism were observed between the isolates. PCR analysis of badger fleas (Paraceras melis) collected from infected individuals at Wytham indicated the presence of T. pestanai and this was confirmed by examination of dissected specimens. Wet smears and Giemsa-stained preparations from dissected fleas revealed large numbers of trypanosome-like forms in the hindgut, some of which were undergoing binary fission. We conclude that P. melis is the primary vector of T. pestanai in European badgers.
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Blake DP, Billington KJ, Copestake SL, Oakes RD, Quail MA, Wan KL, Shirley MW, Smith AL. Genetic mapping identifies novel highly protective antigens for an apicomplexan parasite. PLoS Pathog 2011; 7:e1001279. [PMID: 21347348 PMCID: PMC3037358 DOI: 10.1371/journal.ppat.1001279] [Citation(s) in RCA: 86] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2010] [Accepted: 01/07/2011] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Apicomplexan parasites are responsible for a myriad of diseases in humans and livestock; yet despite intensive effort, development of effective sub-unit vaccines remains a long-term goal. Antigenic complexity and our inability to identify protective antigens from the pool that induce response are serious challenges in the development of new vaccines. Using a combination of parasite genetics and selective barriers with population-based genetic fingerprinting, we have identified that immunity against the most important apicomplexan parasite of livestock (Eimeria spp.) was targeted against a few discrete regions of the genome. Herein we report the identification of six genomic regions and, within two of those loci, the identification of true protective antigens that confer immunity as sub-unit vaccines. The first of these is an Eimeria maxima homologue of apical membrane antigen-1 (AMA-1) and the second is a previously uncharacterised gene that we have termed ‘immune mapped protein-1’ (IMP-1). Significantly, homologues of the AMA-1 antigen are protective with a range of apicomplexan parasites including Plasmodium spp., which suggest that there may be some characteristic(s) of protective antigens shared across this diverse group of parasites. Interestingly, homologues of the IMP-1 antigen, which is protective against E. maxima infection, can be identified in Toxoplasma gondii and Neospora caninum. Overall, this study documents the discovery of novel protective antigens using a population-based genetic mapping approach allied with a protection-based screen of candidate genes. The identification of AMA-1 and IMP-1 represents a substantial step towards development of an effective anti-eimerian sub-unit vaccine and raises the possibility of identification of novel antigens for other apicomplexan parasites. Moreover, validation of the parasite genetics approach to identify effective antigens supports its adoption in other parasite systems where legitimate protective antigen identification is difficult. Protozoan parasites are responsible for serious diseases in humans and livestock species. Vaccination is a declared intervention of choice with these infections, but even after many years of effort few effective vaccines are available. Identification of the right antigens for inclusion in sub-unit vaccines is a particular problem with complex pathogens. Moreover, the host response does not discriminate between protective and non-protective antigens, confounding development of effective screening systems. This study represents the culmination of work using parasite genetics and immunity as a selective barrier to find parts of the parasite genome targeted by immunity. The pathogen used in these studies (Eimeria maxima) is very important in livestock and related to a number of human pathogens including those responsible for malaria. Our studies indicate that just six regions in the genome were targeted by immunity and two of these have now been interrogated to determine the protective antigen encoding gene. Interestingly, one of these (called AMA-1) has homologues known to be protective with other apicomplexan parasites. This raises the intriguing possibility that a set of homologous antigens may be protective across the apicomplexan parasites and that protective antigen discovery in one parasite may generate new leads in other vaccine programmes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Damer P. Blake
- Institute for Animal Health, Compton, Berkshire, United Kingdom
- Pathology and Infectious Diseases, Royal Veterinary College, University of London, North Mymms, United Kingdom
- * E-mail: (DPB); (ALS)
| | | | | | | | - Michael A. Quail
- Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute, Wellcome Trust Genome Campus, Hinxton, United Kingdom
| | - Kiew-Lian Wan
- Malaysia Genome Institute, UKM-MTDC Technology Centre, Selangor, Malaysia
- School of Biosciences and Biotechnology, Faculty of Science and Technology, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Selangor, Malaysia
| | | | - Adrian L. Smith
- Institute for Animal Health, Compton, Berkshire, United Kingdom
- Department of Zoology, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
- * E-mail: (DPB); (ALS)
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15
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Blake DP, Oakes R, Smith AL. A genetic linkage map for the apicomplexan protozoan parasite Eimeria maxima and comparison with Eimeria tenella. Int J Parasitol 2011; 41:263-70. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpara.2010.09.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2010] [Revised: 09/09/2010] [Accepted: 09/15/2010] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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16
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Velkers F, Blake D, Graat E, Vernooij J, Bouma A, de Jong M, Stegeman J. Quantification of Eimeria acervulina in faeces of broilers: Comparison of McMaster oocyst counts from 24h faecal collections and single droppings to real-time PCR from cloacal swabs. Vet Parasitol 2010; 169:1-7. [DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2010.01.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2009] [Revised: 12/21/2009] [Accepted: 01/04/2010] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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17
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Clark JD, Billington K, Bumstead JM, Oakes RD, Soon PE, Sopp P, Tomley FM, Blake DP. A toolbox facilitating stable transfection of Eimeria species. Mol Biochem Parasitol 2008; 162:77-86. [DOI: 10.1016/j.molbiopara.2008.07.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2008] [Revised: 07/17/2008] [Accepted: 07/22/2008] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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18
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Martynova-Vankley A, Syvyk A, Teplova I, Hume M, Nalian A. Rapid detection of avian Eimeria species using denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis. Poult Sci 2008; 87:1707-13. [PMID: 18753436 DOI: 10.3382/ps.2008-00098] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
A denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis (DGGE) assay was developed to rapidly discriminate species of avian Eimeria. Amplification by PCR of the small subunit ribosomal RNA gene (approximately 1,600 nucleotides) with Eimeria genus-specific primers followed by cloning and sequencing allowed us to carry out phylogenetic analyses and identify clone sequences to species level in most cases. Clones were subsequently used to amplify a smaller fragment (approximately 120 nucleotides) suitable for DGGE. The fragments were separated on denaturing gradient gel and bands with unique migration distances were mixed to obtain an identification ladder. The identification ladder and PCR products obtained from DNA extracted from fecal samples from several poultry farms were compared. Applying the DGGE method in this study allowed a rapid differentiation of Eimeria species present in fecal samples collected from poultry farms.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Martynova-Vankley
- Department of Biotechnology, Stephen F. Austin State University, Nacogdoches TX 75965, USA.
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19
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Jex AR, Smith HV, Monis PT, Campbell BE, Gasser RB. Cryptosporidium--biotechnological advances in the detection, diagnosis and analysis of genetic variation. Biotechnol Adv 2008; 26:304-17. [PMID: 18430539 DOI: 10.1016/j.biotechadv.2008.02.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 98] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2007] [Revised: 01/29/2008] [Accepted: 02/14/2008] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Cryptosporidiosis is predominantly a gastrointestinal disease of humans and other animals, caused by various species of protozoan parasites representing the genus Cryptosporidium. This disease, transmitted mainly via the faecal-oral route (in water or food), is of major socioeconomic importance worldwide. The diagnosis and genetic characterization of the different species and population variants (usually recognised as "genotypes" or "subgenotypes") of Cryptosporidium is central to the prevention, surveillance and control of cryptosporidiosis, particularly given that there is presently no broadly applicable treatment regimen for this disease. Although traditional phenotypic techniques have had major limitations in the specific diagnosis of cryptosporidiosis, there have been major advances in the development of molecular analytical and diagnostic tools. This article provides a concise account of Cryptosporidium and cryptosporidiosis, and focuses mainly on recent advances in nucleic acid-based approaches for the diagnosis of cryptosporidiosis and analysis of genetic variation within and among species of Cryptosporidium. These advances represent a significant step toward an improved understanding of the epidemiology as well as the prevention and control of cryptosporidiosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- A R Jex
- Department of Veterinary Science, The University of Melbourne, Werribee, Victoria, Australia.
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20
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Blake DP, Qin Z, Cai J, Smith AL. Development and validation of real-time polymerase chain reaction assays specific to four species of Eimeria. Avian Pathol 2008; 37:89-94. [DOI: 10.1080/03079450701802248] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Damer P. Blake
- a Enteric Immunology Group , Institute for Animal Health , Compton , Berkshire , RG20 7NN , UK
| | - Zonghua Qin
- b Guangdong Academy of Agricultural Sciences , Institute of Veterinary Medicine , Guangzhou , 510640 , China
| | - Jianping Cai
- b Guangdong Academy of Agricultural Sciences , Institute of Veterinary Medicine , Guangzhou , 510640 , China
| | - Adrian L. Smith
- a Enteric Immunology Group , Institute for Animal Health , Compton , Berkshire , RG20 7NN , UK
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21
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Ling KH, Rajandream MA, Rivailler P, Ivens A, Yap SJ, Madeira AM, Mungall K, Billington K, Yee WY, Bankier AT, Carroll F, Durham AM, Peters N, Loo SS, Mat Isa MN, Novaes J, Quail M, Rosli R, Nor Shamsudin M, Sobreira TJ, Tivey AR, Wai SF, White S, Wu X, Kerhornou A, Blake D, Mohamed R, Shirley M, Gruber A, Berriman M, Tomley F, Dear PH, Wan KL. Sequencing and analysis of chromosome 1 of Eimeria tenella reveals a unique segmental organization. Genome Res 2007; 17:311-9. [PMID: 17284678 PMCID: PMC1800922 DOI: 10.1101/gr.5823007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [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] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Eimeria tenella is an intracellular protozoan parasite that infects the intestinal tracts of domestic fowl and causes coccidiosis, a serious and sometimes lethal enteritis. Eimeria falls in the same phylum (Apicomplexa) as several human and animal parasites such as Cryptosporidium, Toxoplasma, and the malaria parasite, Plasmodium. Here we report the sequencing and analysis of the first chromosome of E. tenella, a chromosome believed to carry loci associated with drug resistance and known to differ between virulent and attenuated strains of the parasite. The chromosome--which appears to be representative of the genome--is gene-dense and rich in simple-sequence repeats, many of which appear to give rise to repetitive amino acid tracts in the predicted proteins. Most striking is the segmentation of the chromosome into repeat-rich regions peppered with transposon-like elements and telomere-like repeats, alternating with repeat-free regions. Predicted genes differ in character between the two types of segment, and the repeat-rich regions appear to be associated with strain-to-strain variation.
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Affiliation(s)
- King-Hwa Ling
- Malaysia Genome Institute, UKM-MTDC Smart Technology Centre, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, 43600 UKM Bangi, Selangor DE, Malaysia
- Molecular Genetics Laboratory, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400 UPM Serdang, Selangor DE, Malaysia
| | - Marie-Adele Rajandream
- The Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute, Wellcome Trust Genome Campus, Hinxton, Cambridgeshire CB10 1SA, United Kingdom
| | - Pierre Rivailler
- Division of Microbiology, Institute for Animal Health, Compton Laboratory, Compton, Near Newbury, Berkshire, RG20 7NN, United Kingdom
| | - Alasdair Ivens
- The Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute, Wellcome Trust Genome Campus, Hinxton, Cambridgeshire CB10 1SA, United Kingdom
| | - Soon-Joo Yap
- Malaysia Genome Institute, UKM-MTDC Smart Technology Centre, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, 43600 UKM Bangi, Selangor DE, Malaysia
- School of Biosciences and Biotechnology, Faculty of Science and Technology, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, 43600 UKM Bangi, Selangor DE, Malaysia
| | - Alda M.B.N. Madeira
- Departamento de Parasitologia, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo SP, 05508-000, Brazil
| | - Karen Mungall
- The Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute, Wellcome Trust Genome Campus, Hinxton, Cambridgeshire CB10 1SA, United Kingdom
| | - Karen Billington
- Division of Microbiology, Institute for Animal Health, Compton Laboratory, Compton, Near Newbury, Berkshire, RG20 7NN, United Kingdom
| | - Wai-Yan Yee
- Malaysia Genome Institute, UKM-MTDC Smart Technology Centre, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, 43600 UKM Bangi, Selangor DE, Malaysia
- School of Biosciences and Biotechnology, Faculty of Science and Technology, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, 43600 UKM Bangi, Selangor DE, Malaysia
| | - Alan T. Bankier
- MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Hills Road, Cambridge CB2 2QH, United Kingdom
| | - Fionnadh Carroll
- Division of Microbiology, Institute for Animal Health, Compton Laboratory, Compton, Near Newbury, Berkshire, RG20 7NN, United Kingdom
| | - Alan M. Durham
- Departamento de Ciências da Computação, Instituto de Matemática e Estatística, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo SP, 05508-000, Brazil
| | - Nicholas Peters
- The Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute, Wellcome Trust Genome Campus, Hinxton, Cambridgeshire CB10 1SA, United Kingdom
| | - Shu-San Loo
- Malaysia Genome Institute, UKM-MTDC Smart Technology Centre, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, 43600 UKM Bangi, Selangor DE, Malaysia
- School of Biosciences and Biotechnology, Faculty of Science and Technology, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, 43600 UKM Bangi, Selangor DE, Malaysia
| | - Mohd Noor Mat Isa
- Malaysia Genome Institute, UKM-MTDC Smart Technology Centre, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, 43600 UKM Bangi, Selangor DE, Malaysia
| | - Jeniffer Novaes
- Departamento de Parasitologia, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo SP, 05508-000, Brazil
| | - Michael Quail
- The Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute, Wellcome Trust Genome Campus, Hinxton, Cambridgeshire CB10 1SA, United Kingdom
| | - Rozita Rosli
- Malaysia Genome Institute, UKM-MTDC Smart Technology Centre, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, 43600 UKM Bangi, Selangor DE, Malaysia
- Molecular Genetics Laboratory, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400 UPM Serdang, Selangor DE, Malaysia
| | - Mariana Nor Shamsudin
- Malaysia Genome Institute, UKM-MTDC Smart Technology Centre, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, 43600 UKM Bangi, Selangor DE, Malaysia
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400 UPM Serdang, Selangor DE, Malaysia
| | - Tiago J.P. Sobreira
- Departamento de Parasitologia, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo SP, 05508-000, Brazil
| | - Adrian R. Tivey
- The Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute, Wellcome Trust Genome Campus, Hinxton, Cambridgeshire CB10 1SA, United Kingdom
| | - Siew-Fun Wai
- Malaysia Genome Institute, UKM-MTDC Smart Technology Centre, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, 43600 UKM Bangi, Selangor DE, Malaysia
- School of Biosciences and Biotechnology, Faculty of Science and Technology, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, 43600 UKM Bangi, Selangor DE, Malaysia
| | - Sarah White
- Division of Microbiology, Institute for Animal Health, Compton Laboratory, Compton, Near Newbury, Berkshire, RG20 7NN, United Kingdom
| | - Xikun Wu
- Division of Microbiology, Institute for Animal Health, Compton Laboratory, Compton, Near Newbury, Berkshire, RG20 7NN, United Kingdom
| | - Arnaud Kerhornou
- The Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute, Wellcome Trust Genome Campus, Hinxton, Cambridgeshire CB10 1SA, United Kingdom
| | - Damer Blake
- Division of Microbiology, Institute for Animal Health, Compton Laboratory, Compton, Near Newbury, Berkshire, RG20 7NN, United Kingdom
| | - Rahmah Mohamed
- Malaysia Genome Institute, UKM-MTDC Smart Technology Centre, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, 43600 UKM Bangi, Selangor DE, Malaysia
- School of Biosciences and Biotechnology, Faculty of Science and Technology, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, 43600 UKM Bangi, Selangor DE, Malaysia
| | - Martin Shirley
- Division of Microbiology, Institute for Animal Health, Compton Laboratory, Compton, Near Newbury, Berkshire, RG20 7NN, United Kingdom
| | - Arthur Gruber
- Departamento de Parasitologia, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo SP, 05508-000, Brazil
| | - Matthew Berriman
- The Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute, Wellcome Trust Genome Campus, Hinxton, Cambridgeshire CB10 1SA, United Kingdom
| | - Fiona Tomley
- Division of Microbiology, Institute for Animal Health, Compton Laboratory, Compton, Near Newbury, Berkshire, RG20 7NN, United Kingdom
| | - Paul H. Dear
- MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Hills Road, Cambridge CB2 2QH, United Kingdom
- Corresponding author.E-mail ; fax 44-1-223-412-178
| | - Kiew-Lian Wan
- Malaysia Genome Institute, UKM-MTDC Smart Technology Centre, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, 43600 UKM Bangi, Selangor DE, Malaysia
- School of Biosciences and Biotechnology, Faculty of Science and Technology, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, 43600 UKM Bangi, Selangor DE, Malaysia
- Corresponding author.E-mail ; fax 44-1-223-412-178
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Abstract
Eimeria species infect livestock in a host-specific manner and are the cause of the disease, coccidiosis. Control of Eimeria species is essential and is currently dominated by chemotherapy; with vaccination using formulations of live wild-type or attenuated parasites an increasing option. A new generation of subunit, live-vector or DNA vaccination strategies is being sought and determining the identity of suitable antigens remains difficult. Some past and present methods of controlling avian coccidia are discussed briefly and we describe progress with a novel approach to identify immunoprotective antigens as vaccine candidates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin W Shirley
- Molecular Parasitology, Institute for Animal Health, Compton, Nr. Newbury, Berkshire RG20 7NN, United Kingdom.
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23
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Morris GM, Gasser RB. Biotechnological advances in the diagnosis of avian coccidiosis and the analysis of genetic variation in Eimeria. Biotechnol Adv 2006; 24:590-603. [PMID: 16901674 DOI: 10.1016/j.biotechadv.2006.06.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2005] [Revised: 06/18/2006] [Accepted: 06/18/2006] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Coccidiosis is an intestinal disease of chickens caused by various species of protozoan parasites within the genus Eimeria. This disease has a major economic impact to growers and to the poultry industry world-wide. The diagnosis and genetic characterization of the different species of Eimeria are central to the prevention, surveillance and control of coccidiosis, particularly now given the major problems with wide-spread resistance of Eimeria species against anticoccidial drugs (coccidiostats) and the residue problems associated with these compounds. While traditional methods have had major limitations in the specific diagnosis of coccidiosis, there have been significant advances in the development of molecular-diagnostic tools. The present article provides a background on coccidiosis, reviews the main molecular methods which have been used and describes recent advances in the establishment of polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-coupled electrophoretic approaches for the specific diagnosis of coccidiosis as well as the genetic characterization of species of Eimeria. These biotechnological advances are considered to represent a significant step toward the improved prevention and control of this important disease of poultry.
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Affiliation(s)
- G M Morris
- Department of Veterinary Science, The University of Melbourne, 250 Princes Highway, Werribee, Victoria 3030, Australia
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24
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Abstract
The Eimeria species, causative agents of the disease coccidiosis, are genetically complex protozoan parasites endemic in livestock. Drug resistance remains commonplace among the Eimeria, and alternatives to chemotherapeutic control are being sought. Vaccines based upon live formulations of parasites are effective, but production costs are high, stimulating demand for a recombinant subunit vaccine. The identity of antigens suitable for inclusion in such vaccines remains elusive. Selection of immunoprotective antigens of the Eimeria species as vaccine candidates based upon recognition by the host immune system has been unsuccessful, obscured by the considerable number of molecules that are immunogenic but not immunoprotective. This is a common problem which characterizes work with most eukaryotic parasites. The identification of a selective criterion to directly access genetic loci that encode immunoprotective antigens of Eimeria maxima using a mapping strategy based upon parasite genetics, immune selection and DNA fingerprinting promises to revolutionize the process of antigen discovery. Linkage analyses of DNA markers amplified from populations of recombinant parasites defined by an ability to escape parent-specific deleterious selection by strain-specific immunity and chemotherapy has revealed four discrete regions within the E. maxima genome linked to escape from a protective immune response. These regions now form the basis of detailed study to identify antigens as candidates for inclusion in future vaccination strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- D P Blake
- Enteric Immunology Group, Institute for Animal Health, Compton, Nr. Newbury, Berkshire, UK.
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25
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Abstract
Modern molecular technologies are having a substantial impact in many fundamental and applied areas of parasitology. In particular, polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-coupled approaches have found broad applicability because their sensitivity permits the enzymatic amplification of gene fragments from minute quantities of nucleic acids from tiny amounts of parasite material. Also, high-resolution electrophoretic and genomic methods are finding increased utility. This paper briefly discusses some developments and applications of DNA methods to parasites and highlights their usefulness or potential for those of veterinary importance. Selected examples of applications with implications in fundamental (systematics, population genetics, epidemiology and ecology) and applied (diagnosis, prevention and control) areas are presented. The focus is mainly on tools for the accurate identification of parasitic nematodes and protozoa of socio-economic importance, the diagnosis of infections and the detection of genetic variability using PCR-coupled mutation scanning technology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robin B Gasser
- Department of Veterinary Science, The University of Melbourne, Werribee, Victoria 3030, Australia.
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26
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Blake DP, Hesketh P, Archer A, Shirley MW, Smith AL. Eimeria maxima: The influence of host genotype on parasite reproduction as revealed by quantitative real-time PCR. Int J Parasitol 2006; 36:97-105. [PMID: 16300767 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpara.2005.09.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [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: 08/09/2005] [Revised: 09/13/2005] [Accepted: 09/16/2005] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
The influence of host genotype on susceptibility to infection with Eimeria species has long been recognised, but beyond monitoring pathological severity or magnitude of oocyst excretion attempts to quantify fluctuations in parasite reproduction within the host have previously relied upon labour-intensive microscopic analysis. The development and application of a quantitative real-time PCR assay has opened this biological 'black box', permitting the sensitive and reproducible enumeration of parasite genomes throughout the course of infection. Generic and species-specific quantitative PCR methods are described, based upon the conserved 5S ribosomal RNA coding sequence of nine avian and murine Eimeria species and the Eimeria maxima MIC1 gene, respectively. These complementary assays have been applied to study the influence of host genotype on resistance to infection with E. maxima, revealing significant differences in parasite load between 'resistant' Line C and 'susceptible' Line 15I inbred chickens 5 days after infection. Parasite DNA remained detectable up to 20 days post-infection; 11 days after the last oocysts had been detected leaving the host.
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Affiliation(s)
- Damer P Blake
- Enteric Immunology Group, Institute for Animal Health, Compton, Nr. Newbury, Berkshire RG20 7NN, UK
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27
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Blake DP, Hesketh P, Archer A, Carroll F, Smith AL, Shirley MW. Parasite genetics and the immune host: recombination between antigenic types of Eimeria maxima as an entrée to the identification of protective antigens. Mol Biochem Parasitol 2004; 138:143-52. [PMID: 15500925 DOI: 10.1016/j.molbiopara.2004.08.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2004] [Revised: 08/02/2004] [Accepted: 08/14/2004] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
The genomes of protozoan parasites encode thousands of gene products and identification of the subset that stimulates a protective immune response is a daunting task. Most screens for vaccine candidates identify molecules by capacity to induce immune responses rather than protection. This paper describes the core findings of a strategy developed with the coccidial parasite Eimeria maxima to rationally identify loci within its genome that encode immunoprotective antigens. Our strategy uses a novel combination of parasite genetics, DNA fingerprinting, drug-resistance and strain-specific immunity and centres on two strains of E. maxima that each induce a lethal strain-specific protective immune response in the host and show a differential response to anti-Eimeria chemotherapy. Through classical mating studies with these strains we have demonstrated that loci encoding molecules stimulating strain-specific protective immunity or resistance to the anti-coccidial drug robenidine segregate independently. Furthermore, passage of populations of recombinant parasites in the face of killing in the immune host was accompanied by the elimination of some polymorphic DNA markers defining the parent strain used to immunise the host. Consideration of the numbers of parasites recombinant for the two traits implicates very few antigen-encoding loci. Our data provide a potential strategy to identify putative antigen-encoding loci in other parasites.
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Affiliation(s)
- Damer P Blake
- Eimerian Genomics Group, Institute for Animal Health, Compton, Nr. Newbury, Berkshire RG20 7NN, UK
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