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Soares EFMS, Carlos DFLP, Epifanio NMDM, Coumendouros K, Cid YP, Chaves DSDA, Campos DR. Insecticidal activity of essential oil of Cannabis sativa against the immature and adult stages of Ctenocephalides felis felis. REVISTA BRASILEIRA DE PARASITOLOGIA VETERINARIA = BRAZILIAN JOURNAL OF VETERINARY PARASITOLOGY : ORGAO OFICIAL DO COLEGIO BRASILEIRO DE PARASITOLOGIA VETERINARIA 2023; 32:e015122. [PMID: 36651425 DOI: 10.1590/s1984-29612023003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2022] [Accepted: 11/24/2022] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Essential oil (EO) of Cannabis sativa (C. sativa) was evaluated against the egg, larval, pupal, and adult stages of the flea Ctenocephalides felis felis. The chemical composition of EO was determined by gas chromatography with flame ionization and mass spectrometry. EO mainly comprised γ-elemene (16.2%) and caryophyllene oxide (14.2%) as major compounds. To evaluate the mortality of flea stages in vitro, filter paper tests were performed at different concentrations. EO of C. sativa showed insecticidal activity (100% mortality at the highest concentrations) for flea control at egg, larval, pupal, and adult stages, with lethal concentrations (LC50) of 32.45; 91.61; 466.41 and 927.92 μg/cm2, respectively. EO of C. sativa indicated the potential for the development of ectoparasiticide for veterinary use, especially for fleas in egg and larval stages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eduardo Fellipe Melo Santos Soares
- Departamento de Parasitologia Animal, Instituto de Veterinária, Universidade Federal Rural do Rio de Janeiro - UFRRJ, Seropédia, RJ, Brasil
| | | | - Neide Mara de Menezes Epifanio
- Departamento de Ciências Farmacêuticas, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas e da Saúde, Universidade Federal Rural do Rio de Janeiro - UFRRJ, Seropédica, RJ, Brasil
| | - Katherina Coumendouros
- Departamento de Parasitologia Animal, Instituto de Veterinária, Universidade Federal Rural do Rio de Janeiro - UFRRJ, Seropédia, RJ, Brasil
| | - Yara Peluso Cid
- Departamento de Ciências Farmacêuticas, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas e da Saúde, Universidade Federal Rural do Rio de Janeiro - UFRRJ, Seropédica, RJ, Brasil
| | - Douglas Siqueira de Almeida Chaves
- Departamento de Ciências Farmacêuticas, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas e da Saúde, Universidade Federal Rural do Rio de Janeiro - UFRRJ, Seropédica, RJ, Brasil
| | - Diefrey Ribeiro Campos
- Programa de Pós-graduação em Ciências Veterinárias, Departamento de Parasitologia Animal, Instituto de Veterinária, Universidade Federal Rural do Rio de Janeiro - UFRRJ, Seropédica, RJ, Brasil
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Transmission of deformed wing virus between Varroa destructor foundresses, mite offspring and infested honey bees. Parasit Vectors 2022; 15:333. [PMID: 36151583 PMCID: PMC9502634 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-022-05463-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2022] [Accepted: 08/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Varroa destructor is the major ectoparasite of the western honey bee (Apis mellifera). Through both its parasitic life-cycle and its role as a vector of viral pathogens, it can cause major damage to honey bee colonies. The deformed wing virus (DWV) is the most common virus transmitted by this ectoparasite, and the mite is correlated to increased viral prevalence and viral loads in infested colonies. DWV variants A and B (DWV-A and DWV-B, respectively) are the two major DWV variants, and they differ both in their virulence and transmission dynamics. Methods We studied the transmission of DWV between bees, parasitic mites and their offspring by quantifying DWV loads in bees and mites collected in in vitro and in situ environments. In vitro, we artificially transmitted DWV-A to mites and quantified both DWV-A and DWV-B in mites and bees. In situ, we measured the natural presence of DWV-B in bees, mites and mites’ offspring. Results Bee and mite viral loads were correlated, and mites carrying both variants were associated with higher mortality of the infected host. Mite infestation increased the DWV-B loads and decreased the DWV-A loads in our laboratory conditions. In situ, viral quantification in the mite offspring showed that, after an initially non-infected egg stage, the DWV-B loads were more closely correlated with the foundress (mother) mites than with the bee hosts. Conclusions The association between mites and DWV-B was highlighted in this study. The parasitic history of a mite directly impacts its DWV infection potential during the rest of its life-cycle (in terms of variant and viral loads). Regarding the mite’s progeny, we hypothesize that the route of contamination is likely through the feeding site rather than by vertical transmission, although further studies are needed to confirm this hypothesis. Graphical Abstract ![]()
Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13071-022-05463-9.
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Zhang Y, Nie Y, Li LY, Chen SY, Liu GH, Liu W. Population genetics and genetic variation of Ctenocephalides felis and Pulex irritans in China by analysis of nuclear and mitochondrial genes. Parasit Vectors 2022; 15:266. [PMID: 35897029 PMCID: PMC9327250 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-022-05393-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2022] [Accepted: 07/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Fleas are the most economically significant blood-feeding ectoparasites worldwide. Ctenocephalides felis and Pulex irritans can parasitize various animals closely related to humans and are of high veterinary significance. Methods In this study, 82 samples were collected from 7 provinces of China. Through studying the nuclear genes ITS1 and EF-1α and two different mitochondrial genes cox1 and cox2, the population genetics and genetic variation of C. felis and P. irritans in China were further investigated. Results The intraspecies differences between C. felis and P. irritans ranged from 0 to 3.9%. The interspecific variance in the EF-1α, cox1, and cox2 sequences was 8.2–18.3%, while the ITS1 sequence was 50.1–52.2%. High genetic diversity was observed in both C. felis and P. irritans, and the nucleotide diversity of cox1 was higher than that of cox2. Moderate gene flow was detected in the C. felis and P. irritans populations. Both species possessed many haplotypes, but the haplotype distribution was uneven. Fu's Fs and Tajima's D tests showed that C. felis and P. irritans experienced a bottleneck effect in Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region and Henan province. Evolutionary analysis suggested that C. felis may have two geographical lineages in China, while no multiple lineages of P.irritans were found. Conclusions Using sequence comparison and the construction of phylogenetic trees, we found a moderate amount of gene flow in the C. felis and P. irritans populations. Both species possessed many haplotypes, but the distribution of haplotypes varied among the provinces. Fu’s Fs and Tajima’s D tests indicated that both species had experienced a bottleneck effect in Guangxi and Henan provinces. Evolutionary analysis suggested that C. felis may have two geographical lineages in China, while no multiple lineages of P.irritans were found. This study will help better understand fleas' population genetics and evolutionary biology. Graphical Abstract ![]()
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Zhang
- Research Center for Parasites & Vectors, College of Veterinary Medicine, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha, 410128, Hunan, China
| | - Yu Nie
- Research Center for Parasites & Vectors, College of Veterinary Medicine, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha, 410128, Hunan, China
| | - Le-Yan Li
- Research Center for Parasites & Vectors, College of Veterinary Medicine, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha, 410128, Hunan, China
| | - Shu-Yu Chen
- Research Center for Parasites & Vectors, College of Veterinary Medicine, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha, 410128, Hunan, China
| | - Guo-Hua Liu
- Research Center for Parasites & Vectors, College of Veterinary Medicine, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha, 410128, Hunan, China.
| | - Wei Liu
- Research Center for Parasites & Vectors, College of Veterinary Medicine, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha, 410128, Hunan, China. .,The Key Laboratory of Animal Vaccine & Protein Engineering, Changsha, 410128, Hunan, China.
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Could Phylogenetic Analysis Be Used for Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV) Classification? Viruses 2022; 14:v14020249. [PMID: 35215842 PMCID: PMC8876432 DOI: 10.3390/v14020249] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2021] [Revised: 01/22/2022] [Accepted: 01/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The surface envelope (SU) protein determines the cell tropism and consequently the pathogenesis of the feline leukemia virus (FeLV) in felids. Recombination of exogenous FeLV (exFeLV) with endogenous retroviruses (enFeLV) allows the emergence of more pathogenic variants. Currently, phenotypic testing through interference assays is the only method to distinguish among subgroups-namely, FeLV-A, -B, -C, -E, and -T. This study proposes a new method for FeLV classification based on molecular analysis of the SU gene. A total of 404 publicly available SU sequences were used to reconstruct a maximum likelihood tree. However, only 63 of these sequences had available information about phenotypic tests or subgroup assignments. Two major clusters were observed: (a) clade FeLV-A, which includes FeLV-A, FeLV-C, FeLV-E, and FeLV-T sequences, and (b) clade enFeLV, which includes FeLV-B and enFeLV strains. We found that FeLV-B, FeLV-C, FeLV-E, and FeLV-T SU sequences share similarities to FeLV-A viruses and most likely arose independently through mutation or recombination from this strain. FeLV-B and FeLV-C arose from recombination between FeLV-A and enFeLV viruses, whereas FeLV-T is a monophyletic subgroup that has probably originated from FeLV-A through combined events of deletions and insertions. Unfortunately, this study could not identify polymorphisms that are specifically linked to the FeLV-E subgroup. We propose that phylogenetic and recombination analysis together can explain the current phenotypic classification of FeLV viruses.
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Zhang Y, Nie Y, Deng YP, Liu GH, Fu YT. The complete mitochondrial genome sequences of the cat flea Ctenocephalides felis felis (Siphonaptera: Pulicidae) support the hypothesis that C. felis isolates from China and USA were the same C. f. felis subspecies. Acta Trop 2021; 217:105880. [PMID: 33662336 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2021.105880] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2021] [Revised: 02/23/2021] [Accepted: 02/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
The cat flea Ctenocephalides felis (Siphonaptera: Pulicidae) is the most important ectoparasite in cats and dogs worldwide. Over the years, there has been much dispute regarding the taxonomic and systematic status of C. felis. Mitochondrial (mt) genome sequences are useful genetic markers for the identification and differentiation of ectoparasites, but the mt genome of C. felis and its subspecies has not yet been entirely characterized. In the present study, the entire mt genome of C. f. felis from China was sequenced and compared with that of C. felis from the USA. Both contain 37 genes and a long non-coding region of >6 kbp. The molecular identity between the Chinese and American isolates was 99%, except for the non-coding region. The protein-coding genes showed differences at both the nucleotide (1.2%) and amino acid (1%) levels. Interestingly, the cox1 gene of the Chinese isolate had an unusual putative start codon (TTT). Taken together, our analyses strongly support the hypothesis that C. felis isolates from China and the USA were the same C. f. felis subspecies. The mt genome sequence of the C. f. felis China isolate presented in this study provides useful molecular markers to further address the taxonomy and systematics of C. felis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Zhang
- Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Protein Engineering in Animal Vaccines, College of Veterinary Medicine, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha, Hunan Province, 410128, China
| | - Yu Nie
- Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Protein Engineering in Animal Vaccines, College of Veterinary Medicine, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha, Hunan Province, 410128, China
| | - Yuan-Ping Deng
- Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Protein Engineering in Animal Vaccines, College of Veterinary Medicine, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha, Hunan Province, 410128, China
| | - Guo-Hua Liu
- Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Protein Engineering in Animal Vaccines, College of Veterinary Medicine, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha, Hunan Province, 410128, China; Hunan Co-Innovation Center of Animal Production Safety, Changsha, Hunan Province, 410128, China.
| | - Yi-Tian Fu
- Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Protein Engineering in Animal Vaccines, College of Veterinary Medicine, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha, Hunan Province, 410128, China.
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Hamzaoui BE, Zurita A, Cutillas C, Parola P. Fleas and flea-borne diseases of North Africa. Acta Trop 2020; 211:105627. [PMID: 32652054 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2020.105627] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2020] [Revised: 07/07/2020] [Accepted: 07/07/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
North Africa has an interesting and rich wildlife including hematophagous arthropods, and specifically fleas, which constitute a large part of the North African fauna, and are recognised vectors of several zoonotic bacteria. Flea-borne organisms are widely distributed throughout the world in endemic disease foci, where components of the enzootic cycle are present. Furthermore, flea-borne diseases could re-emerge in epidemic form because of changes in the vector-host ecology due to environmental and human behaviour modifications. We need to know the real incidences of flea-borne diseases in the world due to this incidence could be much greater than are generally recognized by physicians and health authorities. As a result, diagnosis and treatment are often delayed by health care professionals who are unaware of the presence of these infections and thus do not take them into consideration when attempting to determine the cause of a patient's illness. In this context, this bibliographic review aims to summarise the main species of fleas present in North Africa, their geographical distribution, flea-borne diseases, and their possible re-emergence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Basma El Hamzaoui
- Aix Marseille Univ, IRD, AP-HM, SSA, VITROME; IHU Méditerranée Infection, Marseille, France.
| | - Antonio Zurita
- Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Seville, Profesor García González 2, 41012 Seville, Spain.
| | - Cristina Cutillas
- Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Seville, Profesor García González 2, 41012 Seville, Spain.
| | - Philippe Parola
- Aix Marseille Univ, IRD, AP-HM, SSA, VITROME; IHU Méditerranée Infection, Marseille, France.
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Hartmann K, Hofmann-Lehmann R. What's New in Feline Leukemia Virus Infection. Vet Clin North Am Small Anim Pract 2020; 50:1013-1036. [PMID: 32680664 DOI: 10.1016/j.cvsm.2020.05.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Feline leukemia virus (FeLV) is a retrovirus with global impact on the health of domestic cats that causes tumors (mainly lymphoma), bone marrow disorders, and immunosuppression. The importance of FeLV is underestimated due to complacency associated with previous decline in prevalence. However, with this comes lowered vigilance, which, along with potential for regressively infected cats to reactivate viremia and shed the virus or develop clinical signs, can pose a risk to feline health. This article summarizes knowledge on FeLV pathogenesis, courses of infection, and factors affecting prevalance, infection outcome, and development of FeLV-associated diseases, with special focus on regressive FeLV infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katrin Hartmann
- Clinic of Small Animal Medicine, Centre for Clinical Veterinary Medicine LMU Munich, Veterinaerstrasse 13, Munich 80539, Germany.
| | - Regina Hofmann-Lehmann
- Clinical Laboratory, Department for Clinical Diagnostics and Services, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstrasse 260, Zurich 8057, Switzerland
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Machado MA, Campos DR, Lopes NL, Bastos IPB, Alves MSR, Correia TR, Scott FB, Fernandes JI. Efficacy of afoxolaner in the flea control in experimentally infested cats. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2020; 28:760-763. [PMID: 31483035 DOI: 10.1590/s1984-29612019064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2019] [Accepted: 07/19/2019] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of a single dose of oral afoxolaner in controlling fleas in cats. Fourteen cats were used. The cats were given identification numbers, housed individually, artificially infested with Ctenocephalides felis felis, and treated (or not) with afoxolaner. Were divided into a treatment group and a control group (n = 7/group), on the basis of the fleas count hours after an infestation applied on Day (one-by-one allocation after ordering by count). At the start of the experimental protocol (designated day 0), the treated group received afoxolaner in a single dose of 2.5 mg/kg and the control group animals received a placebo. All animals were infested with 100 C. felis felis fleas two days before day 0, as well as on days 5, 12, 19, 26, 33, 40, 47, 54, and 63, parasite loads being evaluated at 48 h after each infestation. The efficacy of afoxolaner was 100% on day 2 and remained above 98% until day 42, decreasing to 95.3% by day 63. The findings confirm that a single dose of oral afoxolaner was effective in controlling C. felis felis in cats, and there were no observed adverse events.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marília Alves Machado
- Programa de Pós-graduação em Medicina Veterinária, Universidade Federal Rural do Rio de Janeiro - UFRRJ, Seropédica, RJ, Brasil
| | - Diefrey Ribeiro Campos
- Programa de Pós-graduação em Ciências Veterinárias, Universidade Federal Rural do Rio de Janeiro - UFRRJ, Seropédica, RJ, Brasil
| | - Natália Lôres Lopes
- Programa de Pós-graduação em Medicina Veterinária, Universidade Federal Rural do Rio de Janeiro - UFRRJ, Seropédica, RJ, Brasil
| | | | - Mariana Silva Revoredo Alves
- Programa de Pós-graduação em Ciências Veterinárias, Universidade Federal Rural do Rio de Janeiro - UFRRJ, Seropédica, RJ, Brasil
| | - Thais Ribeiro Correia
- Departamento de Parasitologia Animal, Universidade Federal Rural do Rio de Janeiro - UFRRJ, Seropédica, RJ, Brasil
| | - Fabio Barbour Scott
- Departamento de Parasitologia Animal, Universidade Federal Rural do Rio de Janeiro - UFRRJ, Seropédica, RJ, Brasil
| | - Julio Israel Fernandes
- Departamento de Medicina e Cirurgia Veterinária, Universidade Federal Rural do Rio de Janeiro - UFRRJ, Seropédica, RJ, Brasil
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Harvey E, Rose K, Eden JS, Lawrence A, Doggett SL, Holmes EC. Identification of diverse arthropod associated viruses in native Australian fleas. Virology 2019; 535:189-199. [PMID: 31319276 DOI: 10.1016/j.virol.2019.07.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2019] [Revised: 07/02/2019] [Accepted: 07/08/2019] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
Fleas are important vectors of zoonotic disease. However, little is known about the natural diversity and abundance of flea viruses, particularly in the absence of disease associations, nor the evolutionary relationships among those viruses found in different parasitic vector species. Herein, we present the first virome scale study of fleas, based on the meta-transcriptomic analysis of 52 fleas collected along the eastern coast of Australia. Our analysis revealed 18 novel RNA viruses belonging to nine viral families with diverse genome organizations, although the majority (72%) possessed single-stranded positive-sense genomes. Notably, a number of the viruses identified belonged to the same phylogenetic groups as those observed in ticks sampled at the same locations, although none were likely associated with mammalian infection. Overall, we identified high levels of genomic diversity and abundance of viruses in the flea species studied, and established that fleas harbor viruses similar to those seen to other vectors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erin Harvey
- Marie Bashir Institute for Infectious Diseases and Biosecurity, Charles Perkins Centre, School of Life and Environmental Sciences and Sydney Medical School, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2006, Australia
| | - Karrie Rose
- Australian Registry of Wildlife Health, Taronga Conservation Society Australia, Mosman, NSW, 2088, Australia
| | - John-Sebastian Eden
- Marie Bashir Institute for Infectious Diseases and Biosecurity, Charles Perkins Centre, School of Life and Environmental Sciences and Sydney Medical School, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2006, Australia; Centre for Virus Research, Westmead Institute for Medical Research, Westmead, NSW, 2145, Australia
| | - Andrea Lawrence
- Medical Entomology, NSW Health Pathology, ICPMR, Westmead Hospital, Westmead, NSW, 2145, Australia; Sydney School of Veterinary Science, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2006, Australia; SpeeDx, Pty Ltd., Eveleigh, NSW, 2015, Australia
| | - Stephen L Doggett
- Department of Medical Entomology, NSWHP-ICPMR, Westmead Hospital, Westmead, NSW, 2145, Australia
| | - Edward C Holmes
- Marie Bashir Institute for Infectious Diseases and Biosecurity, Charles Perkins Centre, School of Life and Environmental Sciences and Sydney Medical School, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2006, Australia.
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Cohen C, Shemesh M, Garrido M, Messika I, Einav M, Khokhlova I, Tasker S, Hawlena H. Haemoplasmas in wild rodents: Routes of transmission and infection dynamics. Mol Ecol 2018; 27:3714-3726. [PMID: 30074652 DOI: 10.1111/mec.14826] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2017] [Revised: 07/04/2018] [Accepted: 07/19/2018] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
The way that some parasites and pathogens persist in the hostile environment of their host for long periods remains to be resolved. Here, longitudinal field surveys were combined with laboratory experiments to investigate the routes of transmission and infection dynamics of such a pathogen-a wild rodent haemotropic bacterium, specifically a Mycoplasma haemomuris-like bacterium. Fleaborne transmission, direct rodent-to-rodent transmission and vertical transmission from fleas or rodents to their offspring were experimentally quantified, and indications were found that the main route of bacterial transmission is direct, although its rate of successful transmission is low (~20%). The bacterium's temporal dynamics was then compared in the field to that observed under a controlled infection experiment in field-infected and laboratory-infected rodents, and indications were found, under all conditions, that the bacterium reached its peak infection level after 25-45 days and then decreased to low bacterial loads, which persist for the rodent's lifetime. These findings suggest that the bacterium relies on persistency with low bacterial loads for long-term coexistence with its rodent host, having both conceptual and applied implications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carmit Cohen
- Department of Life Sciences, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheva, Israel
| | - Merav Shemesh
- Department of Life Sciences, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheva, Israel
| | - Mario Garrido
- Mitrani Department of Desert Ecology, Jacob Blaustein Institutes for Desert Research, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Midreshet Ben-Gurion, Israel
| | - Irit Messika
- Department of Life Sciences, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheva, Israel
| | - Monica Einav
- Department of Life Sciences, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheva, Israel
| | - Irina Khokhlova
- Wyler Department of Dryland Agriculture, French Associates Institute for Agriculture and Biotechnology of Drylands, Jacob Blaustein Institutes for Desert Research, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Midreshet Ben-Gurion, Israel
| | - Séverine Tasker
- School of Veterinary Sciences, University of Bristol, Langford, UK
| | - Hadas Hawlena
- Mitrani Department of Desert Ecology, Jacob Blaustein Institutes for Desert Research, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Midreshet Ben-Gurion, Israel
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Rust MK. The Biology and Ecology of Cat Fleas and Advancements in Their Pest Management: A Review. INSECTS 2017; 8:E118. [PMID: 29077073 PMCID: PMC5746801 DOI: 10.3390/insects8040118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2017] [Revised: 10/18/2017] [Accepted: 10/18/2017] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
The cat flea Ctenocephalides felis felis (Bouché) is the most important ectoparasite of domestic cats and dogs worldwide. It has been two decades since the last comprehensive review concerning the biology and ecology of C. f. felis and its management. Since then there have been major advances in our understanding of the diseases associated with C. f. felis and their implications for humans and their pets. Two rickettsial diseases, flea-borne spotted fever and murine typhus, have been identified in domestic animal populations and cat fleas. Cat fleas are the primary vector of Bartonella henselae (cat scratch fever) with the spread of the bacteria when flea feces are scratched in to bites or wounds. Flea allergic dermatitis (FAD) common in dogs and cats has been successfully treated and tapeworm infestations prevented with a number of new products being used to control fleas. There has been a continuous development of new products with novel chemistries that have focused on increased convenience and the control of fleas and other arthropod ectoparasites. The possibility of feral animals serving as potential reservoirs for flea infestations has taken on additional importance because of the lack of effective environmental controls in recent years. Physiological insecticide resistance in C. f. felis continues to be of concern, especially because pyrethroid resistance now appears to be more widespread. In spite of their broad use since 1994, there is little evidence that resistance has developed to many of the on-animal or oral treatments such as fipronil, imidacloprid or lufenuron. Reports of the perceived lack of performance of some of the new on-animal therapies have been attributed to compliance issues and their misuse. Consequentially, there is a continuing need for consumer awareness of products registered for cats and dogs and their safety.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael K Rust
- Department of Entomology, University of California Riverside, Riverside, CA 92521, USA.
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Groff K, Bishop P. Itching for change: Embracing modern flea and tick product development. Regul Toxicol Pharmacol 2017; 88:349-355. [PMID: 28689745 DOI: 10.1016/j.yrtph.2017.07.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2017] [Accepted: 07/05/2017] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
The development and regulatory approval of ectoparasiticides, including flea and tick control products, involves decades-old methods and the use of large numbers of animals to evaluate toxicity and efficacy. Animals also are used to rear (breed and feed) fleas and ticks for later use in testing. Non-animal methods for regulatory-required testing and rearing currently exist and, with further development, others could soon become available. Here we provide an overview of the state-of-the-science of non-animal methods for rearing and regulatory-required efficacy testing of flea and tick control products. Several remaining challenges as well as recommendations on the steps needed to replace animals in the evaluation of these products are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katherine Groff
- People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals, 501 Front Street, Norfolk, VA, 23510, United States.
| | - Patricia Bishop
- People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals, 501 Front Street, Norfolk, VA, 23510, United States.
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Viral Metagenomics on Blood-Feeding Arthropods as a Tool for Human Disease Surveillance. Int J Mol Sci 2016; 17:ijms17101743. [PMID: 27775568 PMCID: PMC5085771 DOI: 10.3390/ijms17101743] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2016] [Revised: 10/07/2016] [Accepted: 10/11/2016] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Surveillance and monitoring of viral pathogens circulating in humans and wildlife, together with the identification of emerging infectious diseases (EIDs), are critical for the prediction of future disease outbreaks and epidemics at an early stage. It is advisable to sample a broad range of vertebrates and invertebrates at different temporospatial levels on a regular basis to detect possible candidate viruses at their natural source. However, virus surveillance systems can be expensive, costly in terms of finances and resources and inadequate for sampling sufficient numbers of different host species over space and time. Recent publications have presented the concept of a new virus surveillance system, coining the terms "flying biological syringes", "xenosurveillance" and "vector-enabled metagenomics". According to these novel and promising surveillance approaches, viral metagenomics on engorged mosquitoes might reflect the viral diversity of numerous mammals, birds and humans, combined in the mosquitoes' blood meal during feeding on the host. In this review article, we summarize the literature on vector-enabled metagenomics (VEM) techniques and its application in disease surveillance in humans. Furthermore, we highlight the combination of VEM and "invertebrate-derived DNA" (iDNA) analysis to identify the host DNA within the mosquito midgut.
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Cong W, Meng QF, Blaga R, Villena I, Zhu XQ, Qian AD. Toxoplasma gondii, Dirofilaria immitis, feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV), and feline leukemia virus (FeLV) infections in stray and pet cats (Felis catus) in northwest China: co-infections and risk factors. Parasitol Res 2015; 115:217-23. [PMID: 26362646 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-015-4738-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2015] [Accepted: 09/04/2015] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
This study was conducted to estimate the prevalence of Toxoplasma gondii, Dirofilaria immitis, feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV), and feline leukemia virus (FeLV) infections among stray and pet cats in Lanzhou, northwest China, and to identify the influence of age, gender, and regions on seropositivity. T. gondii antibodies were examined in cat sera by the modified agglutination test (MAT). The circulating antigens of D. immitis and FeLV and specific antibodies to FIV were examined using kits commercially available. The overall prevalence of T. gondii, FIV, FeLV, and D. immitis was 19.34, 9.12, 11.33, and 3.04 %, respectively. For the genetic characterization of T. gondii genotypes in cats, genomic DNA was extracted from the seropositive cats and the T. gondii B1 gene was amplified using a semi-nested PCR. DNA samples giving positive B1 amplification were then genotyped using multilocus PCR-RFLP. Two T. gondii genotypes (ToxoDB#9 and ToxoDB#1) were identified. Results of the multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that older cats are more likely to be seropositive than juveniles for T. gondii, FIV, FeLV, and D. immitis. This is the first report of T. gondii genotypes in cats in northwest China. Moreover, the present study is the first study of retrovirus and D. immitis seroprevalence in cats in China. The results revealed that T. gondii, FIV, and FeLV infections are common in stray and pet cats in northwest China.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Cong
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun, Jilin Province, 130118, People's Republic of China
- State Key Laboratory of Veterinary Etiological Biology, Lanzhou Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Lanzhou, Gansu Province, 730046, People's Republic of China
| | - Qing-Feng Meng
- Jilin Entry-Exit Inspection and Quarantine Bureau, Changchun, Jilin Province, 130118, People's Republic of China
| | - Radu Blaga
- Unité d'Epidémiologie, Laboratoire de Santé Animale, ANSES, Maisons-Alfort, France
| | - Isabelle Villena
- Laboratoire de Parasitologie, EA3800, IFR53, CHU Reims, Centre National de Référence (CNR) Toxoplasmose/Toxoplasma Biological Resource Center (BRC), Reims, USC Epitoxo, Anses Lerpaz, France
| | - Xing-Quan Zhu
- State Key Laboratory of Veterinary Etiological Biology, Lanzhou Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Lanzhou, Gansu Province, 730046, People's Republic of China.
- Jiangsu Co-innovation Center for the Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, Jiangsu Province, 225009, People's Republic of China.
| | - Ai-Dong Qian
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun, Jilin Province, 130118, People's Republic of China.
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Lefkaditis MA, Sossidou AV, Panorias AH, Koukeri SE, Paştiu AI, Athanasiou LV. Urban stray cats infested by ectoparasites with zoonotic potential in Greece. Parasitol Res 2015; 114:3931-4. [DOI: 10.1007/s00436-015-4688-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2015] [Accepted: 08/19/2015] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
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Salant H, Mumcuoglu KY, Baneth G. Ectoparasites in urban stray cats in Jerusalem, Israel: differences in infestation patterns of fleas, ticks and permanent ectoparasites. MEDICAL AND VETERINARY ENTOMOLOGY 2014; 28:314-318. [PMID: 24191942 DOI: 10.1111/mve.12032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2013] [Revised: 08/10/2013] [Accepted: 08/19/2013] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
In a period cross-sectional study performed to examine ectoparasites on 340 stray cats in Jerusalem, Israel, 186 (54.7%) were infested with the cat flea, Ctenocephalides felis (Siphonaptera: Pulicidae), 49 (14.4%) with the cat louse, Felicola subrostratus (Phthiraptera: Trichodectidae), 41 (12.0%) with the ear mite, Otodectes cynotis (Astigmata: Psoroptidae), three (0.9%) with the fur mite, Cheyletiella blakei (Trobidiformes: Cheyletidae), two (0.6%) with the itch mite Notoedres cati (Astigmata: Sarcoptidae), and 25 (7.3%) with ticks of the species Rhipicephalus sanguineus sensu lato (Ixodida: Ixodidae), Rhipicephalus turanicus or Haemaphysalis adleri (Ixodida: Ixodidae). A higher number of flea infestations was observed in apparently sick cats (P < 0.05) and in cats aged < 6 months (P < 0.05). The proportion of flea-infested cats (P < 0.01), as well as the number of fleas per infested cat (P < 0.01), was higher in autumn than in other seasons. By contrast with findings in cats with flea infestations, rates of infestation with ticks were higher amongst cats with clinical signs (P < 0.01) and cats aged ≥ 6 months (P < 0.05). The high rates of ectoparasite infestation in the cats studied constitute a risk for the spread of vector-borne infections of zoonotic and veterinary importance.
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Affiliation(s)
- H Salant
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, Kuvin Centre for the Study of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, Hadassah Medical School, Hebrew University, Jerusalem, Israel
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Development of Acanthocheilonema reconditum (Spirurida, Onchocercidae) in the cat flea Ctenocephalides felis (Siphonaptera, Pulicidae). Parasitology 2014; 141:1718-25. [PMID: 25068432 DOI: 10.1017/s0031182014001000] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
To investigate larval development of Acanthocheilonema reconditum in the cat flea Ctenocephalides felis, fleas were fed through an artificial feeding system with dog blood containing different concentrations of microfilariae (i.e. low, group L = 250; medium, group M = 500; high, group H = 1500 microfilariae per mL) or no microfilariae (group C). Fleas were sampled at 12 different time-points throughout the study period (D1-D28) and A. reconditum was detected by dissection, PCR and histology. Of 2105 fleas fed with infected dog blood, 891 (38·7%) died during the study before being sampled whilst the remaining (n = 1214) were examined for A. reconditum. Upon dissection, first-stage larvae (L1) were identified after 2 days post infection (D2), second-stage (L2) at D13 and infective third-stage larvae (L3) at D15. Eighteen (30%) of 60 pools of fleas molecularly examined tested positive. Histologically, L2 were detected at D13 in the sub-cuticle region embedded in the back muscle of one female flea. This study provides original data on larval development of A. reconditum in C. felis and reports on the usefulness of the artificial feeding system.
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Abstract
PRACTICAL RELEVANCE Flea allergic dermatitis is one of the most common skin diseases of cats presented for veterinary attention. It is therefore important for the practitioner to be able to design an appropriate flea management plan for their patients. CLINICAL CHALLENGES There is no 'one size fits all' flea control programme for cats. Successful flea management requires an understanding of flea biology and knowledge of the mode of action of commercial flea products, of which there is a wide range available. Management of owner expectations can often present a challenge. Cat owners generally attribute a persistence of fleas after the administration of routine flea control to be a reflection of product failure. Owners may also be sceptical that fleas are responsible for the clinical signs of overgrooming in their cat and perceive a lack of response to flea adulticide treatment to be evidence of this fact. EVIDENCE BASE This article reviews an extensive body of published literature to update some concepts in flea control and discuss how judicious use of traditional and newer flea products can contribute to an integrated flea control strategy for cats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meng Siak
- Exclusively Dermatology, Skin, Ear and Allergy Clinic, Murdoch Veterinary Hospital, School of Veterinary and Biomedical Science, Murdoch University, Murdoch, Western Australia.
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Bak A, Irons SL, Martinière A, Blanc S, Drucker M. Host cell processes to accomplish mechanical and non-circulative virus transmission. PROTOPLASMA 2012; 249:529-39. [PMID: 21984344 DOI: 10.1007/s00709-011-0328-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2011] [Accepted: 09/28/2011] [Indexed: 05/22/2023]
Abstract
Mechanical vector-less transmission of viruses, as well as vector-mediated non-circulative virus transmission, where the virus attaches only to the exterior of the vector during the passage to a new host, are apparently simple processes: the viruses are carried along with the wind, the food or by the vector to a new host. We discuss here, using the examples of the non-circulatively transmitted Cauliflower mosaic virus that binds to its aphid vector's exterior mouthparts, and that of the mechanically (during feeding activity) transmitted Autographa californica multicapsid nucleopolyhedrovirus, that transmission of these viruses is not so simple as previously thought. Rather, these viruses prepare their transmission carefully and long before the actual acquisition event. Host-virus interactions play a pivotal and specialised role in the future encounter with the vector or the new host. This ensures optimal propagation and enlarges the tremendous bottleneck transmission presents for viruses and other pathogens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aurélie Bak
- INRA, Equipe CaGeTE, UMR BGPI Plant Pathogen Interactions, TA A54K Campus International de Baillarguet, 34398, Montpellier Cedex 5, France
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Dobler G, Pfeffer M. Fleas as parasites of the family Canidae. Parasit Vectors 2011; 4:139. [PMID: 21767354 PMCID: PMC3160944 DOI: 10.1186/1756-3305-4-139] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2011] [Accepted: 07/18/2011] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Historically, flea-borne diseases are among the most important medical diseases of humans. Plague and murine typhus are known for centuries while the last years brought some new flea-transmitted pathogens, like R. felis and Bartonella henselae. Dogs may play an essential or an accidental role in the natural transmission cycle of flea-borne pathogens. They support the growth of some of the pathogens or they serve as transport vehicles for infected fleas between their natural reservoirs and humans. More than 15 different flea species have been described in domestic dogs thus far. Several other species have been found to be associated with wild canids. Fleas found on dogs originate from rodents, birds, insectivores and from other Carnivora. Dogs therefore may serve as ideal bridging hosts for the introduction of flea-borne diseases from nature to home. In addition to their role as ectoparasites they cause nuisance for humans and animals and may be the cause for severe allergic reactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gerhard Dobler
- Bundeswehr Institute of Microbiology, Department of Virology and Rickettsiology, Neuherbergstrasse 11, D-80937 Munich, Germany.
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Simmons G, Young P, McKee J, Meers J, MIZUNO T. The Epidemiology of Koala Retrovirus. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2011. [DOI: 10.2743/jve.15.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
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Characterization of ectoparasites in an urban cat (Felis catus Linnaeus, 1758) population of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Parasitol Res 2010; 108:1431-5. [DOI: 10.1007/s00436-010-2189-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2010] [Accepted: 11/25/2010] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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Feline immunodeficiency virus, feline leukemia virus and Toxoplasma gondii in stray and household cats in Kerman–Iran: Seroprevalence and correlation with clinical and laboratory findings. Res Vet Sci 2010; 89:306-10. [DOI: 10.1016/j.rvsc.2010.03.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2009] [Revised: 02/01/2010] [Accepted: 03/09/2010] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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Does a feline leukemia virus infection pave the way for Bartonella henselae infection in cats? J Clin Microbiol 2010; 48:3295-300. [PMID: 20610682 DOI: 10.1128/jcm.00750-10] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Domestic cats serve as the reservoir hosts of Bartonella henselae and may develop mild clinical symptoms or none after experimental infection. In humans, B. henselae infection can result in self-limiting cat scratch disease. However, immunocompromised patients may suffer from more-severe courses of infection or may even develop the potentially lethal disease bacillary angiomatosis. It was reasoned that cats with immunocompromising viral infections may react similarly to B. henselae infection. The aim of our study was to investigate the influence of the most important viruses known to cause immunosuppression in cats-Feline leukemia virus (FeLV), Feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV), and Feline panleukopenia virus (FPV)-on natural B. henselae infection in cats. Accordingly, 142 cats from animal shelters were necropsied and tested for B. henselae and concurrent infections with FeLV, FIV, or FPV by PCR and immunohistochemistry. A significant association was found between B. henselae and FeLV infections (P = 0.00028), but not between B. henselae and FIV (P = 1.0) or FPV (P = 0.756) infection, age (P = 0.392), or gender (P = 0.126). The results suggest that susceptibility to B. henselae infection is higher in cats with concurrent FeLV infections, regardless of whether the infection is latent or progressive. Histopathology and immunohistochemistry for B. henselae failed to identify lesions that could be attributed specifically to B. henselae infection. We conclude that the course of natural B. henselae infection in cats does not seem to be influenced by immunosuppressive viral infections in general but that latent FeLV infection may predispose cats to B. henselae infection or persistence.
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McElroy KM, Blagburn BL, Breitschwerdt EB, Mead PS, McQuiston JH. Flea-associated zoonotic diseases of cats in the USA: bartonellosis, flea-borne rickettsioses, and plague. Trends Parasitol 2010; 26:197-204. [DOI: 10.1016/j.pt.2010.01.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2009] [Revised: 01/10/2010] [Accepted: 01/20/2010] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
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Faure E. Could FIV zoonosis responsible of the breakdown of the pathocenosis which has reduced the European CCR5-Delta32 allele frequencies? Virol J 2008; 5:119. [PMID: 18925940 PMCID: PMC2575341 DOI: 10.1186/1743-422x-5-119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2008] [Accepted: 10/16/2008] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Background In Europe, the north-south downhill cline frequency of the chemokine receptor CCR5 allele with a 32-bp deletion (CCR5-Δ32) raises interesting questions for evolutionary biologists. We had suggested first that, in the past, the European colonizers, principally Romans, might have been instrumental of a progressively decrease of the frequencies southwards. Indeed, statistical analyses suggested strong negative correlations between the allele frequency and historical parameters including the colonization dates by Mediterranean civilisations. The gene flows from colonizers to native populations were extremely low but colonizers are responsible of the spread of several diseases suggesting that the dissemination of parasites in naive populations could have induced a breakdown rupture of the fragile pathocenosis changing the balance among diseases. The new equilibrium state has been reached through a negative selection of the null allele. Results Most of the human diseases are zoonoses and cat might have been instrumental in the decrease of the allele frequency, because its diffusion through Europe was a gradual process, due principally to Romans; and that several cat zoonoses could be transmitted to man. The possible implication of a feline lentivirus (FIV) which does not use CCR5 as co-receptor is discussed. This virus can infect primate cells in vitro and induces clinical signs in macaque. Moreover, most of the historical regions with null or low frequency of CCR5-Δ32 allele coincide with historical range of the wild felid species which harbor species-specific FIVs. Conclusion We proposed the hypothesis that the actual European CCR5 allelic frequencies are the result of a negative selection due to a disease spreading. A cat zoonosis, could be the most plausible hypothesis. Future studies could provide if CCR5 can play an antimicrobial role in FIV pathogenesis. Moreover, studies of ancient DNA could provide more evidences regarding the implications of zoonoses in the actual CCR5-Δ32 distribution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric Faure
- LATP, CNRS-UMR 6632, IFR48 Infectiopole, Evolution biologique et modélisation, Université de Provence, Marseille, France.
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Nagy N, Abari E, D'Haese J, Calheiros C, Heukelbach J, Mencke N, Feldmeier H, Mehlhorn H. Investigations on the life cycle and morphology of Tunga penetrans in Brazil. Parasitol Res 2008; 101 Suppl 2:S233-42. [PMID: 17823833 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-007-0683-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
In the present study, the life cycle of Tunga penetrans was established in Wistar rats in the laboratory, and the morphology of the resulting developmental stages was studied by means of light and scanning electron microscopy. It was seen that the females enter at a nonfertilized stage through the skin of their hosts. Only there the copulation occurs, while females and males brought together in a Petri dish showed no interest in each other. In any way -- fertilized or not -- the females start about 6 days after penetration and hypertrophy with the ejection of eggs. While fertilized eggs proceed to development, the unfertilized ones remain arrested. The eggs are ovoid and measure about 600 x 320 mum. The larvae hatch from the eggs 1-6 days (mean 3-4) after ejection. Formation of larvae 2 took at least another day, while 4 up to 10 days more were needed until this larva starts pupation (mean 5-7 days). The formation of the adult fleas inside the puparium occurred within 9-15 days (with a maximum hatch at day 12). Adult female fleas having reached the skin of a host start blood sucking within 5 min and prepare to enter the skin. After 24 h, the flea stacked already with two thirds of its body inside the skin. After 40 h, the penetration was completed, and feeding and hypertrophical enlargement started, which was completed on day 6, when eggs became ejected. When studying the morphology of the fleas obtained from different hosts, slight variations were seen, which, however, are not significant for a species separation but may be an indication of the presence of different strains/races or the beginning of such a formation.
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Affiliation(s)
- N Nagy
- Institute of Zoomorphology, Cell Biology and Parasitology, Heinrich-Heine University, 40225, Düsseldorf, Germany
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Jern P, Sperber GO, Blomberg J. Divergent patterns of recent retroviral integrations in the human and chimpanzee genomes: probable transmissions between other primates and chimpanzees. J Virol 2006; 80:1367-75. [PMID: 16415014 PMCID: PMC1346942 DOI: 10.1128/jvi.80.3.1367-1375.2006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The human genome is littered by endogenous retrovirus sequences (HERVs), which constitute up to 8% of the total genomic sequence. The sequencing of the human (Homo sapiens) and chimpanzee (Pan troglodytes) genomes has facilitated the evolutionary study of ERVs and related sequences. We screened both the human genome (version hg16) and the chimpanzee genome (version PanTro1) for ERVs and conducted a phylogenetic analysis of recent integrations. We found a number of recent integrations within both genomes. They segregated into four groups. Two larger gammaretrovirus-like groups (PtG1 and PtG2) occurred in chimpanzees but not in humans. The PtG sequences were most similar to two baboon ERVs and a macaque sequence but neither to other chimpanzee ERVs nor to any human gammaretrovirus-like ERVs. The pattern was consistent with cross-species transfer via predation. This appears to be an example of horizontal transfer of retroviruses with occasional fixation in the germ line.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patric Jern
- Section of Virology, Department of Medical Sciences, Uppsala University, Academic Hospital, Dag Hammarskjolds v. 17, SE-751 85 Uppsala, Sweden.
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