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Remadi L, Farjallah D, Chargui N, Belgacem S, Baba H, Zrieq R, Alzain MA, Babba H, Haouas N. Blood meal analysis and molecular detection of mammalian Leishmania DNA in wild-caught Sergentomyia spp. from Tunisia and Saudi Arabia. Parasitol Res 2023; 122:2181-2191. [PMID: 37449994 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-023-07919-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2023] [Accepted: 06/29/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023]
Abstract
Phlebotomine sand flies (Diptera: Phlebotominae) belonging to the genus Phlebotomus are vectors of pathogens such as arboviruses, bacteria, and parasites (Leishmania). Species of the genus Sergentomyia (Se.) transmit Sauroleishmania (Reptile Leishmania) and feed on cold-blooded vertebrates; recently, they have been incriminated in mammalian Leishmania transmission. In addition, they have been reported to feed on warm-blooded vertebrates. This study aimed to (i) screen wild-caught Sergentomyia species for the detection of mammalian Leishmania and (ii) identify the blood meal origin of engorged females. The sand flies were collected using centers for disease control and prevention (CDC) traps, mounted and identified morphologically. Only females of the genus Sergentomyia were screened for Leishmania infection using PCR targeting the 18S ribosomal DNA locus. For positive specimens, Leishmania parasites were typed using nested PCR targeting ribosomal internal transcribed spacer 1 followed by digestion with HaeIII. The PCR-RFLP results were confirmed through sequencing. Blood meal identification was performed through PCR amplification of the vertebrate cytochrome b gene using degenerate primers followed by sequencing. In total, 6026 sand fly specimens were collected between 2009 and 2018. Among these, 511 belonged to five species of Sergentomyia genus: Se. minuta (58.51%), Se. fallax (18.01%), Se. clydei (14.68%), Se. dreyfussi (6.26%), and Se. antennata (2.54%). A total of 256 female Sergentomyia sp. specimens were screened for Leishmania infection. Seventeen (17) were positive (6.64%). Two Leishmania species were identified. Leishmania major DNA was detected in five specimens; this included three Se. fallax, one Se. minuta, and one Se. dreyfussi collected from Tunisia. Leishmania infantum/L. donovani complex was detected in four Se. minuta and three Se. dreyfussi specimens collected from Tunisia. In addition, we identified the blood meal origin of five engorged Se. minuta specimens collected from Tunisia. Sequencing results revealed two blood sources: humans (n = 4) and reptiles (n = 1) indicating possible role of Sergentomyia species in the transmission of human Leishmania. In addition, these species could be involved in the life cycle of L. infantum/L. donovani complex and L. major. The results of the blood meal origin showed that Sergentomyia fed on both cold- and warm-blooded vertebrates. These findings enable a better understanding of the behavior of this sand fly genus. Further studies should focus on the role of Sergentomyia in human Leishmania transmission and possible control of this disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Latifa Remadi
- Laboratory of Medical and Molecular Parasitology-Mycology LP3M (code LR12ES08), Department of Clinical Biology B, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Monastir, street 1, Avicenne, 5000, Monastir, Tunisia
- Institute of Molecular Biology & Biotechnology, Foundation for Research & Technology Hellas, Heraklion, Greece
| | - Dhekra Farjallah
- Laboratory of Medical and Molecular Parasitology-Mycology LP3M (code LR12ES08), Department of Clinical Biology B, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Monastir, street 1, Avicenne, 5000, Monastir, Tunisia
| | - Najla Chargui
- Laboratory of Medical and Molecular Parasitology-Mycology LP3M (code LR12ES08), Department of Clinical Biology B, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Monastir, street 1, Avicenne, 5000, Monastir, Tunisia
| | - Sameh Belgacem
- Laboratory of Medical and Molecular Parasitology-Mycology LP3M (code LR12ES08), Department of Clinical Biology B, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Monastir, street 1, Avicenne, 5000, Monastir, Tunisia
| | - Hela Baba
- Laboratory of Medical and Molecular Parasitology-Mycology LP3M (code LR12ES08), Department of Clinical Biology B, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Monastir, street 1, Avicenne, 5000, Monastir, Tunisia
| | - Rafat Zrieq
- Department of Public Health, College of Public Health and Health Informatics, University of Ha'il, Ha'il, 2440, Saudi Arabia
- Applied Science, Research Center, Applied Science Private University, Amman, Jordan
| | - Mohamed Ali Alzain
- Department of Public Health, College of Public Health and Health Informatics, University of Ha'il, Ha'il, 2440, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Community Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Dongola, Dongola, PO BOX 47, 41111, Dongola, Sudan
| | - Hamouda Babba
- Laboratory of Medical and Molecular Parasitology-Mycology LP3M (code LR12ES08), Department of Clinical Biology B, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Monastir, street 1, Avicenne, 5000, Monastir, Tunisia
| | - Najoua Haouas
- Laboratory of Medical and Molecular Parasitology-Mycology LP3M (code LR12ES08), Department of Clinical Biology B, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Monastir, street 1, Avicenne, 5000, Monastir, Tunisia.
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Ticha L, Volfova V, Mendoza-Roldan JA, Bezerra-Santos MA, Maia C, Sadlova J, Otranto D, Volf P. Experimental feeding of Sergentomyia minuta on reptiles and mammals: comparison with Phlebotomus papatasi. Parasit Vectors 2023; 16:126. [PMID: 37055860 PMCID: PMC10103492 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-023-05758-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2023] [Accepted: 03/27/2023] [Indexed: 04/15/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Sergentomyia minuta (Diptera: Phlebotominae) is an abundant sand fly species in the Mediterranean basin and a proven vector of reptile parasite Leishmania (Sauroleishmania) tarentolae. Although it feeds preferentially on reptiles, blood meal analyses and detection of Leishmania (Leishmania) infantum DNA in wild-caught S. minuta suggest that occasional feeding may occur on mammals, including humans. Therefore, it is currently suspected as a potential vector of human pathogens. METHODS A recently established S. minuta colony was allowed to feed on three reptile species (i.e. lizard Podarcis siculus and geckos Tarentola mauritanica and Hemidactylus turcicus) and three mammal species (i.e. mouse, rabbit and human). Sand fly mortality and fecundity were studied in blood-fed females, and the results were compared with Phlebotomus papatasi, vector of Leishmania (L.) major. Blood meal volumes were measured by haemoglobinometry. RESULTS Sergentomyia minuta fed readily on three reptile species tested, neglected the mouse and the rabbit but took a blood meal on human. However, the percentage of females engorged on human volunteer was low in cage (3%) and feeding on human blood resulted in extended defecation times, higher post-feeding mortality and lower fecundity. The average volumes of blood ingested by females fed on human and gecko were 0.97 µl and 1.02 µl, respectively. Phlebotomus papatasi females readily fed on mouse, rabbit and human volunteer; a lower percentage of females (23%) took blood meal on the T. mauritanica gecko; reptilian blood increased mortality post-feeding but did not affect P. papatasi fecundity. CONCLUSIONS Anthropophilic behaviour of S. minuta was experimentally demonstrated; although sand fly females prefer reptiles as hosts, they were attracted to the human volunteer and took a relatively high volume of blood. Their feeding times were longer than in sand fly species regularly feeding on mammals and their physiological parameters suggest that S. minuta is not adapted well for digestion of mammalian blood. Nevertheless, the ability to bite humans highlights the necessity of further studies on S. minuta vector competence to elucidate its potential role in circulation of Leishmania and phleboviruses pathogenic to humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucie Ticha
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic.
| | - Vera Volfova
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic
| | | | | | - Carla Maia
- Global Health and Tropical Medicine, Instituto de Higiene e Medicina Tropical, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Jovana Sadlova
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Domenico Otranto
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Valenzano, Italy
- Department of Pathobiology, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Bu-Ali Sina University, Hamedan, Iran
| | - Petr Volf
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Valenzano, Italy
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Mendoza-Roldan JA, Latrofa MS, Tarallo VD, Manoj RR, Bezerra-Santos MA, Annoscia G, Iatta R, Otranto D. Leishmania spp. in Squamata reptiles from the Mediterranean basin. Transbound Emerg Dis 2021; 69:2856-2866. [PMID: 34951929 DOI: 10.1111/tbed.14438] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2021] [Revised: 12/13/2021] [Accepted: 12/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Leishmania tarentolae is a non-pathogenic trypanosomatid species isolated from geckoes in the Mediterranean basin. In Italy, L. tarentolae and Leishmania infantum occur in sympatry in areas where canine leishmaniosis (CanL) is endemic. Here, we investigated the prevalence and distribution of L. tarentolae in reptilian hosts, and the presence of L. infantum in these hosts in southern Italy. From April 2020 to April 2021, lizards and snakes were captured in urban, peri-urban sites, natural parks and dog shelters. Blood was individually sampled and assessed for the presence of Leishmania spp. by cytology and/or molecular biology. Captured lizards were euthanized and their tissues/organs were tested by duplex real-time-PCR for the detection of L. infantum and L. tarentolae and the positive ones were amplified by conventional PCR to confirm the species identification by sequencing. Samples were also screened by real-time-PCR for L. infantum kDNA minicircle. Of the 259 collected Squamata reptiles, 34 (13.1%) specimens scored positive for Leishmania spp., with a prevalence of 10% for L. tarentolae (n = 26) and of 3.1% for L. infantum (n = 8). Positive lizards were mostly Podarcis siculus (n = 26) from dog shelters, with six specimens positive for L. infantum. In addition, L. tarentolae was detected in one Podarcis filfolensis lizard, and in five T. mauritanica geckos (with one gecko and P. filfolensis lizard showing amastigote-like forms in thrombocytes), whereas L. infantum was detected in one T. mauritanica, and one Hemidactylus turcicus. Saurian reptiles living in CanL endemic areas of the Mediterranean basin may be exposed to both L. tarentolae and L. infantum indicating a sympatric circulation of these species in different vertebrate hosts. Moreover, this study represents the first molecular evidence of L. infantum infection in European reptiles. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Maria Stefania Latrofa
- Dipartimento di Medicina Veterinaria, Università degli Studi di Bari, Valenzano, 70010, Italy
| | | | - Ranju Rs Manoj
- Dipartimento di Medicina Veterinaria, Università degli Studi di Bari, Valenzano, 70010, Italy
| | | | - Giada Annoscia
- Dipartimento di Medicina Veterinaria, Università degli Studi di Bari, Valenzano, 70010, Italy
| | - Roberta Iatta
- Dipartimenti Interdisciplinare di Medicina, Università degli Studi di Bari, Italy
| | - Domenico Otranto
- Dipartimento di Medicina Veterinaria, Università degli Studi di Bari, Valenzano, 70010, Italy.,Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, Bu-Ali Sina University, Hamedan, Iran
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Mendoza-Roldan JA, Latrofa MS, Iatta R, R S Manoj R, Panarese R, Annoscia G, Pombi M, Zatelli A, Beugnet F, Otranto D. Detection of Leishmania tarentolae in lizards, sand flies and dogs in southern Italy, where Leishmania infantum is endemic: hindrances and opportunities. Parasit Vectors 2021; 14:461. [PMID: 34493323 PMCID: PMC8423600 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-021-04973-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2021] [Accepted: 08/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Leishmania tarentolae is a protozoan isolated from geckoes (Tarentola annularis, Tarentola mauritanica), which is considered non-pathogenic and is transmitted by herpetophilic Sergentomyia spp. sand flies. This species occurs in sympatry with Leishmania infantum in areas where canine leishmaniasis is endemic. In the present study, we investigated the circulation of L. tarentolae and L. infantum in sand flies, dogs and lizards in a dog shelter in southern Italy, where canine leishmaniasis by L. infantum is endemic. Methods Sheltered dogs (n = 100) negative for Leishmania spp. (March 2020) were screened by immunofluorescence antibody test (IFAT) using promastigotes of both species at two time points (June 2020 and March 2021). Whole blood from dogs, tissues of Podarcis siculus lizards (n = 28) and sand flies (n = 2306) were also sampled and tested by a duplex real-time PCR (dqPCR). Host blood meal was assessed in sand flies by PCR. Results Overall, 16 dogs became positive for L. infantum and/or L. tarentolae by IFAT at one or both sampling periods. One canine blood sample was positive for L. infantum, whilst two for L. tarentolae by dqPCR. At the cytology of lizard blood, Leishmania spp. amastigote-like forms were detected in erythrocytes. Twenty-two tissue samples, mostly lung (21.4%), scored molecularly positive for L. tarentolae, corresponding to 10 lizards (i.e., 35.7%). Of the female Sergentomyia minuta sampled (n = 1252), 158 scored positive for L. tarentolae, four for L. infantum, and one co-infected. Two Phlebotomus perniciosus (out of 29 females) were positive for L. tarentolae. Engorged S. minuta (n = 10) fed on humans, and one P. perniciosus, positive for L. tarentolae, on lagomorphs. Conclusions Dogs and lacertid lizards (Podarcis siculus) were herein found for the first time infected by L. tarentolae. The detection of both L. tarentolae and L. infantum in S. minuta and P. perniciosus suggests their sympatric circulation, with a potential overlap in vertebrate hosts. The interactions between L. tarentolae and L. infantum should be further investigated in both vectors and vertebrate hosts to understand the potential implications for the diagnosis and control of canine leishmaniasis in endemic areas. Graphical abstract ![]()
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Maria Stefania Latrofa
- Dipartimento di Medicina Veterinaria, Università degli studi Di Bari, 70010, Valenzano, Italy
| | - Roberta Iatta
- Dipartimento di Medicina Veterinaria, Università degli studi Di Bari, 70010, Valenzano, Italy
| | - Ranju R S Manoj
- Dipartimento di Medicina Veterinaria, Università degli studi Di Bari, 70010, Valenzano, Italy
| | - Rossella Panarese
- Dipartimento di Medicina Veterinaria, Università degli studi Di Bari, 70010, Valenzano, Italy
| | - Giada Annoscia
- Dipartimento di Medicina Veterinaria, Università degli studi Di Bari, 70010, Valenzano, Italy
| | - Marco Pombi
- Dipartimento di Sanità Pubblica E Malattie Infettive, "Sapienza" Università di Roma - Piazzale Aldo Moro 5, 00185, Rome, Italy
| | - Andrea Zatelli
- Dipartimento di Medicina Veterinaria, Università degli studi Di Bari, 70010, Valenzano, Italy
| | - Fred Beugnet
- Boehringer-Ingelheim, Avenue Tony Garnier, 29, 69007, Lyon, France
| | - Domenico Otranto
- Dipartimento di Medicina Veterinaria, Università degli studi Di Bari, 70010, Valenzano, Italy. .,Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, Bu-Ali Sina University, Hamedan, Iran.
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5
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Mendoza-Roldan JA, Mendoza-Roldan MA, Otranto D. Reptile vector-borne diseases of zoonotic concern. Int J Parasitol Parasites Wildl 2021; 15:132-142. [PMID: 34026483 PMCID: PMC8121771 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijppaw.2021.04.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2021] [Revised: 04/13/2021] [Accepted: 04/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Reptile vector-borne diseases (RVBDs) of zoonotic concern are caused by bacteria, protozoa and viruses transmitted by arthropod vectors, which belong to the subclass Acarina (mites and ticks) and the order Diptera (mosquitoes, sand flies and tsetse flies). The phyletic age of reptiles since their origin in the late Carboniferous, has favored vectors and pathogens to co-evolve through millions of years, bridging to the present host-vector-pathogen interactions. The origin of vector-borne diseases is dated to the early cretaceous with Trypanosomatidae species in extinct sand flies, ancestral of modern protozoan hemoparasites of zoonotic concern (e.g., Leishmania and Trypanosoma) associated to reptiles. Bacterial RVBDs are represented by microorganisms also affecting mammals of the genera Aeromonas, Anaplasma, Borrelia, Coxiella, Ehrlichia and Rickettsia, most of them having reptilian clades. Finally, reptiles may play an important role as reservoirs of arborivuses, given the low host specificity of anthropophilic mosquitoes and sand flies. In this review, vector-borne pathogens of zoonotic concern from reptiles are discussed, as well as the interactions between reptiles, arthropod vectors and the zoonotic pathogens they may transmit.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Domenico Otranto
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Bari, Valenzano, Italy
- Department of Pathobiology, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Bu-Ali Sina University, Hamedan, Iran
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Pombi M, Giacomi A, Barlozzari G, Mendoza-Roldan J, Macrì G, Otranto D, Gabrielli S. Molecular detection of Leishmania (Sauroleishmania) tarentolae in human blood and Leishmania (Leishmania) infantum in Sergentomyia minuta: unexpected host-parasite contacts. MEDICAL AND VETERINARY ENTOMOLOGY 2020; 34:470-475. [PMID: 32710462 DOI: 10.1111/mve.12464] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2020] [Revised: 06/12/2020] [Accepted: 07/01/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
The detection of atypical Kinetoplastida in vertebrate hosts and vectors might suggest unexpected host-parasite contacts. Aside to major vectors of Leishmania (Leishmania) infantum in Italy (e.g. Phlebotomus perniciosus and Phlebotomus perfiliewi), the sand fly fauna also includes Sergentomyia minuta, herpetophilic and proven vector of Leishmania (Sauroleishmania) tarentolae, in which records of blood meal on mammals and detection of L. infantum DNA are increasing. This study was conducted in Central Italy aiming to molecularly detect potential atypical Leishmania host-vector contacts. Detection of Leishmania spp. DNA was performed by polymerase chain reaction (SSU rRNA, ITS1 targets) on field-collected sand fly females (N = 344), blood samples from humans (N = 185) and dogs (N = 125). Blood meal identification was also performed on engorged sand flies. Leishmania spp. DNA was found in 13.1% sand flies, 3.7% humans and 14.4% dogs. Sequence analysis identified L. infantum in S. minuta (4.4%), P. perniciosus (9.1%), humans (2.2%) and dogs (14.4%). Leishmania tarentolae was detected in S. minuta (12.6%), P. perfiliewi (6.6%) and human (1.6%) samples. Of 28 S. minuta examined for blood meal, 3.6 and 21.4% scored positive for human and lizard DNA, respectively. These results indicate the importance of one-health approach to explore new potential routes of transmission of leishmaniasis involving S. minuta.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Pombi
- Dipartimento di Sanità Pubblica e Malattie Infettive, Sapienza Università di Roma, Rome, Italy
| | - A Giacomi
- Dipartimento di Sanità Pubblica e Malattie Infettive, Sapienza Università di Roma, Rome, Italy
| | - G Barlozzari
- Department of Direzione Operativa Sierologia, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Lazio e della Toscana, Rome, Italy
| | - J Mendoza-Roldan
- Dipartimento di Medicina Veterinaria, Università degli Studi di Bari, Valenzano, Italy
| | - G Macrì
- Department of Direzione Operativa Sierologia, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Lazio e della Toscana, Rome, Italy
| | - D Otranto
- Dipartimento di Medicina Veterinaria, Università degli Studi di Bari, Valenzano, Italy
| | - S Gabrielli
- Dipartimento di Sanità Pubblica e Malattie Infettive, Sapienza Università di Roma, Rome, Italy
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Daoudi M, Boussaa S, Hafidi M, Boumezzough A. Potential distributions of phlebotomine sandfly vectors of human visceral leishmaniasis caused by Leishmania infantum in Morocco. MEDICAL AND VETERINARY ENTOMOLOGY 2020; 34:385-393. [PMID: 32103524 DOI: 10.1111/mve.12434] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2019] [Revised: 01/31/2020] [Accepted: 02/03/2020] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Zoonotic visceral leishmaniasis is a common vector-borne systemic disease caused by Leishmania infantum (Kinetoplastida: Trypanosomatidae). In Morocco the situation is complex: many sandfly species have been collected in areas in which the disease is endemic, but only Phlebotomus ariasi, Phlebotomus perniciosus and Phlebotomus longicuspis (Diptera: Psychodidae) have been confirmed to have vectorial roles. The objective of the present study was to ascertain the potential distribution of L. infantum and its vectors in Morocco, using ecological niche modelling. Vector records were obtained from field collections of the Laboratory team and from previously published entomological observations. Epidemiological data for L. infantum modelling were obtained from Moroccan Ministry of Health reports. The jackknife test indicated that the bioclimatic variables with the greatest influence on model development for all species were annual precipitation and precipitation in the driest quarter of the year. MaxEnt model representations for sandfly species that act as vectors of L. infantum showed the widespread geographic distribution of these species in Morocco, specifically in northern and central Morocco, where foci of visceral leishmaniasis are found. The ecological niche modelling points out areas in which the probability of occurrence of these species is higher. This information should be considered as a starting point for further research to fully elucidate the ecology and epidemiology of these species, as well as of the pathogens they transmit.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Daoudi
- Microbial Biotechnologies, Agrosciences and Environment Laboratory (BioMAgE), Faculty of Sciences Semlalia, Cadi Ayyad University, Marrakesh, Morocco
| | - S Boussaa
- Microbial Biotechnologies, Agrosciences and Environment Laboratory (BioMAgE), Faculty of Sciences Semlalia, Cadi Ayyad University, Marrakesh, Morocco
- ISPITS-Higher Institute of Nursing and Health Techniques, Ministry of Health, Marrakesh, Morocco
| | - M Hafidi
- Microbial Biotechnologies, Agrosciences and Environment Laboratory (BioMAgE), Faculty of Sciences Semlalia, Cadi Ayyad University, Marrakesh, Morocco
| | - A Boumezzough
- Microbial Biotechnologies, Agrosciences and Environment Laboratory (BioMAgE), Faculty of Sciences Semlalia, Cadi Ayyad University, Marrakesh, Morocco
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Daoudi MM, Boussaa S, Boumezzough A. Modeling Spatial Distribution of Sergentomyia minuta (Diptera: Psychodidae) and Its Potential Implication in Leishmaniasis Transmission in Morocco. J Arthropod Borne Dis 2020; 14:17-28. [PMID: 32766345 PMCID: PMC7382697 DOI: 10.18502/jad.v14i1.2700] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2018] [Accepted: 03/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Leishmaniases are parasitic diseases caused by Leishmania species and transmitted by the bite of sand flies. The genus Lutzomyia and Phlebotomus of sand flies are known to be the responsible vector for transmitting almost all Leishmania species to humans. The detection of Leishmania DNA in species of the genus Sergentomyia, in different regions, suggests their likely role in Leishmania transmission. Methods: Our objective was to determine the potential geographical distribution of Sergentomyia minuta, the most dominant Sergentomyia species in Morocco, using ecological niche modeling. Results: The results showed the widespread geographical distribution of S. minuta in Morocco, specifically in northern and central Morocco where visceral and cutaneous leishmaniasis foci occur. There were six abiotic factors affecting the distribution of S. minuta whose annual precipitation, precipitation seasonality and precipitation of driest month as the most important ecological variables of the model. Conclusion: A positive statistical correlation between human leishmaniasis cases and S. minuta abundance was noted suggesting the potential involvement of S. minuta in local Leishmania transmission cycles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Morocco Mohamed Daoudi
- Laboratory of Ecology and Environment (L2E), (URAC 32), Cadi Ayyad University, Faculty of Sciences Semlalia, Marrakesh, Morocco
| | - Samia Boussaa
- Laboratory of Ecology and Environment (L2E), (URAC 32), Cadi Ayyad University, Faculty of Sciences Semlalia, Marrakesh, Morocco.,ISPITS-Higher Institute of Nursing and Technical Health Occupations, Ministry of Health, Marrakesh, Morocco
| | - Ali Boumezzough
- Laboratory of Ecology and Environment (L2E), (URAC 32), Cadi Ayyad University, Faculty of Sciences Semlalia, Marrakesh, Morocco
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Mendoza-Roldan JA, Modry D, Otranto D. Zoonotic Parasites of Reptiles: A Crawling Threat. Trends Parasitol 2020; 36:677-687. [PMID: 32448703 PMCID: PMC7203055 DOI: 10.1016/j.pt.2020.04.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2020] [Revised: 04/27/2020] [Accepted: 04/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Reptiles are reservoirs of a wide range of pathogens, including many protozoa, helminths, pentastomids, and arthropod parasitic species, some of which may be of public health concern. In this review we discuss the zoonotic risks associated with human–reptile interactions. Increased urbanization and introduction of exotic species of reptile may act as drivers for the transmission of zoonotic parasites through the environment. In addition, being a part of human diet, reptiles can be a source of life-threatening parasitoses, such as pentastomiasis or sparganosis. Finally, reptiles kept as pets may represent a risk to owners given the possibility of parasites transmitted by direct contact or fecal contamination. Awareness of reptile-borne zoonotic parasitoses is important to advocate control, prevention, and surveillance of these neglected diseases. Species of protozoa, helminths, pentastomids, and arthropod vectors exploit reptiles as definitive or paratenic hosts, which may represent a public health concern. The zoonotic risk is associated with human–reptile interactions and includes environmental contamination, reptile consumption, or keeping reptiles as pets. Exotic reptile species may introduce new zoonotic parasites in a previously nonendemic region. Pentastomiasis and sparganosis are life-threatening food-borne parasitoses. In our households, if precautions are not taken, reptiles may transmit zoonotic parasites by direct contact or fecal contamination. Trained veterinarians, physicians, and public health officials are important to advocate for proper diagnostics, parasite identification and treatment, as well as for surveillance strategies and food inspection in areas where reptiles are consumed.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - David Modry
- Dipartimento di Medicina Veterinaria, Università degli Studi di Bari, Bari, Italy; Department of Botany and Zoology, Faculty of Science, Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic; Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, UVPS, Brno, Czech Republic; Institute of Parasitology, Biology Centre, Czech Academy of Sciences, Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic
| | - Domenico Otranto
- Dipartimento di Medicina Veterinaria, Università degli Studi di Bari, Bari, Italy; Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, Bu-Ali Sina University, Hamedan, Iran.
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10
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González E, Molina R, Aldea I, Iriso A, Tello A, Jiménez M. Leishmania
sp. detection and blood‐feeding behaviour of S
ergentomyia minuta
collected in the human leishmaniasis focus of southwestern Madrid, Spain (2012–2017). Transbound Emerg Dis 2020; 67:1393-1400. [DOI: 10.1111/tbed.13464] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2019] [Revised: 12/04/2019] [Accepted: 12/24/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Estela González
- Laboratorio de Entomología Médica Centro Nacional de Microbiología Instituto de Salud Carlos III Majadahonda Spain
- The Pirbright Institute Woking UK
| | - Ricardo Molina
- Laboratorio de Entomología Médica Centro Nacional de Microbiología Instituto de Salud Carlos III Majadahonda Spain
| | - Irene Aldea
- Laboratorio de Entomología Médica Centro Nacional de Microbiología Instituto de Salud Carlos III Majadahonda Spain
| | - Andrés Iriso
- Dirección General de Salud Pública Consejería de Sanidad Comunidad de Madrid Madrid Spain
| | - Ana Tello
- Departamento de Biodiversidad Ecología y Evolución Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas Universidad Complutense de Madrid Madrid Spain
| | - Maribel Jiménez
- Laboratorio de Entomología Médica Centro Nacional de Microbiología Instituto de Salud Carlos III Majadahonda Spain
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11
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Klatt S, Simpson L, Maslov DA, Konthur Z. Leishmania tarentolae: Taxonomic classification and its application as a promising biotechnological expression host. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2019; 13:e0007424. [PMID: 31344033 PMCID: PMC6657821 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0007424] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
In this review, we summarize the current knowledge concerning the eukaryotic protozoan parasite Leishmania tarentolae, with a main focus on its potential for biotechnological applications. We will also discuss the genus, subgenus, and species-level classification of this parasite, its life cycle and geographical distribution, and similarities and differences to human-pathogenic species, as these aspects are relevant for the evaluation of biosafety aspects of L. tarentolae as host for recombinant DNA/protein applications. Studies indicate that strain LEM-125 but not strain TARII/UC of L. tarentolae might also be capable of infecting mammals, at least transiently. This could raise the question of whether the current biosafety level of this strain should be reevaluated. In addition, we will summarize the current state of biotechnological research involving L. tarentolae and explain why this eukaryotic parasite is an advantageous and promising human recombinant protein expression host. This summary includes overall biotechnological applications, insights into its protein expression machinery (especially on glycoprotein and antibody fragment expression), available expression vectors, cell culture conditions, and its potential as an immunotherapy agent for human leishmaniasis treatment. Furthermore, we will highlight useful online tools and, finally, discuss possible future applications such as the humanization of the glycosylation profile of L. tarentolae or the expression of mammalian recombinant proteins in amastigote-like cells of this species or in amastigotes of avirulent human-pathogenic Leishmania species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephan Klatt
- Max Planck Institute of Colloids and Interfaces, Potsdam, Germany
- * E-mail: (SK); (ZK)
| | - Larry Simpson
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Molecular Genetics, Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, University of California, Los Angeles, California, United States of America
| | - Dmitri A. Maslov
- Department of Molecular, Cell, and Systems Biology, University of California, Riverside, California, United States of America
| | - Zoltán Konthur
- Max Planck Institute of Colloids and Interfaces, Potsdam, Germany
- * E-mail: (SK); (ZK)
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12
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Bravo-Barriga D, Gouveia Almeida AP, Parreira R, Jiménez-Vidal D, Pérez-Martín JE, Martín-Cuervo M, Frontera E. [First detections of Aedes albopictus (tiger mosquito) in the region of Extremadura, west of Spain]. GACETA SANITARIA 2018; 33:299-300. [PMID: 30591308 DOI: 10.1016/j.gaceta.2018.11.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2018] [Revised: 11/08/2018] [Accepted: 11/13/2018] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Bravo-Barriga
- Unidad de Parasitología y Enfermedades Parasitarias, Departamento de Sanidad Animal, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de Extremadura, Cáceres, España.
| | - António Paulo Gouveia Almeida
- Global Health and Tropical Medicine, Instituto de Higiene y Medicina Tropical, Universidad Nova de Lisboa, Unidad de Parasitología Médica, Lisboa, Portugal; Center for Viral Zoonoses, Department of Medical Virology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Ricardo Parreira
- Global Health and Tropical Medicine, Instituto de Higiene y Medicina Tropical, Universidad Nova de Lisboa, Grupo de Virología/Unidad de Microbiología Médica, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Daniel Jiménez-Vidal
- Unidad de Parasitología y Enfermedades Parasitarias, Departamento de Sanidad Animal, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de Extremadura, Cáceres, España
| | - Juan Enrique Pérez-Martín
- Unidad de Parasitología y Enfermedades Parasitarias, Departamento de Sanidad Animal, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de Extremadura, Cáceres, España
| | - María Martín-Cuervo
- Servicio de Medicina Interna Equina, Facultad de Veterinaria, Departamento de Medicina Animal, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de Extremadura, Cáceres, España
| | - Eva Frontera
- Unidad de Parasitología y Enfermedades Parasitarias, Departamento de Sanidad Animal, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de Extremadura, Cáceres, España
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13
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William W, Bülent A, Thomas B, Eduardo B, Marieta B, Olivier B, Celine G, Jolyon M, Dusan P, Francis S, Ducheyne E. The importance of vector abundance and seasonality. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2018. [DOI: 10.2903/sp.efsa.2018.en-1491] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
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14
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Tateng AN, Kirstein OD, Ngouateu OB, Krüger A, von Stebut E, Maurer M, Payne VK, Warburg A, Dondji B. First detection of Leishmania donovani
in sand flies from Cameroon and its epidemiological implications. Trop Med Int Health 2018; 23:1014-1021. [DOI: 10.1111/tmi.13123] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Aimé Ngouateu Tateng
- Research Unit of Biology and Applied Ecology; University of Dschang; Dschang Cameroon
- Laboratory of the Leishmaniasis Research Project; Mokolo District Hospital; Mokolo Cameroon
| | - Oscar David Kirstein
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics; Hebrew University of Jerusalem; Jerusalem Israel
| | - Omer Bébé Ngouateu
- Laboratory of the Leishmaniasis Research Project; Mokolo District Hospital; Mokolo Cameroon
- Department of Animal Biology and Physiology; University of Yaoundé I; Yaoundé Cameroon
| | - Andreas Krüger
- Tropical Medicine Branch; Bundeswehr-Hospital Hamburg; Hamburg Germany
| | - Esther von Stebut
- Department of Dermatology and Venerology; University of Cologne; Cologne Germany
| | - Marcus Maurer
- Department of Dermatology and Allergy; Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin; Berlin Germany
| | - Vincent Khan Payne
- Research Unit of Biology and Applied Ecology; University of Dschang; Dschang Cameroon
| | - Alon Warburg
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics; Hebrew University of Jerusalem; Jerusalem Israel
| | - Blaise Dondji
- Laboratory of the Leishmaniasis Research Project; Mokolo District Hospital; Mokolo Cameroon
- Laboratory of Cellular Immunology and Parasitology; Central Washington University; Ellensburg WA USA
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15
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Latrofa MS, Iatta R, Dantas-Torres F, Annoscia G, Gabrielli S, Pombi M, Gradoni L, Otranto D. Detection of Leishmania infantum DNA in phlebotomine sand flies from an area where canine leishmaniosis is endemic in southern Italy. Vet Parasitol 2018; 253:39-42. [PMID: 29605001 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2018.02.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2017] [Accepted: 02/02/2018] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Phlebotomine sand flies (Diptera, Psychodidae) are vectors of Leishmania spp., among which Leishmania infantum is recognized as the main agent of human and canine leishmaniosis (CanL) in the Mediterranean area. In this study, females of Phlebotomus spp. (P. perniciosus, P. neglectus and P. papatasi) and Sergentomyia minuta were collected in a dog shelter of southern Italy, where CanL is endemic, and examined for Leishmania DNA. In total, 32 out of 56 of Phlebotomus spp. insects (57.1%) were found positive for L. infantum DNA by quantitative PCR (qPCR), with a mean parasite load of 1.9 × 103 promastigotes/ml among 23 positive P. perniciosus and 2.1 × 103 promastigotes/ml among five positive P. neglectus. Four P. papatasi, a species known to be refractory to L. infantum development, were also found positive. Among 216 S. minuta specimens examined, 25 (11.6%) scored positive for Leishmania tarentolae by conventional nested PCR; two (16.7%) of them were also positive for lizard blood, which is in agreement with the feeding preference of this phlebotomine species. Nine S. minuta (4.2%) were positive for L. infantum by qPCR, with a mean parasite load of 1.62 × 102 promastigotes/ml. The detection of L. infantum DNA in S. minuta may suggest that this species could acquire the protozoan, occasionally feeding on infected dogs. Further investigations need to clarify the potential role that S. minuta may have in the transmission of L. infantum to receptive mammal hosts.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Roberta Iatta
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Bari, Bari, Italy
| | - Filipe Dantas-Torres
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Bari, Bari, Italy; Department of Immunology, Aggeu Magalhães Institute, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, Recife, Pernambuco, Brazil
| | - Giada Annoscia
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Bari, Bari, Italy
| | - Simona Gabrielli
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Marco Pombi
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Luigi Gradoni
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - Domenico Otranto
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Bari, Bari, Italy.
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16
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Pereira S, Pita-Pereira D, Araujo-Pereira T, Britto C, Costa-Rego T, Ferrolho J, Vilhena M, Rangel EF, Vilela ML, Afonso MO. First molecular detection of Leishmania infantum in Sergentomyia minuta (Diptera, Psychodidae) in Alentejo, southern Portugal. Acta Trop 2017. [PMID: 28647427 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2017.06.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Protozoan parasites, such as Leishmania spp., are the causative agents of many insect-borne infectious diseases with medical and veterinary importance. Leishmaniasis, caused by Leishmania spp., is transmitted by female phlebotomine sand flies. In the Alentejo region of Portugal, located at the north of Algarve, cases of human and canine leishmaniasis caused by Leishmania infantum have been notified. However, no recent studies regarding the sand fly fauna in the region are available. We therefore aimed to explore the phlebotomine sand fly species found in both, Évora and Beja Districts, to gain an insight about the leishmaniasis epidemiology in these areas. After the identification of the insect species, PCR molecular tests were used to assess L. infantum infection rate in the sand fly captured females, together with the analysis of blood meal sources of the insect vectors. One Sergentomyia minuta female was positive for L. infantum infection and another for human blood as a meal source. The occurrence of this phlebotomine species infected with L. infantum may suggest that, in the Mediterranean basin, leishmaniasis epidemiology is changing. Also, if the importance of S. minuta for the zoonotic and anthroponotic cycle of leishmaniasis is later proven, the strategies to control its vector will inevitably to be rethought.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Pereira
- Unidade de Ensino e Investigação em Parasitologia Médica (UEI PM), Global Health and Tropical Medicine (GHTM), Instituto de Higiene e Medicina Tropical (IHMT), Universidade de Nova Lisboa (UNL), Lisbon, Portugal.
| | - D Pita-Pereira
- Laboratório de Biologia Molecular e Doenças Endêmicas, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz (FIOCRUZ), Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - T Araujo-Pereira
- Laboratório de Biologia Molecular e Doenças Endêmicas, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz (FIOCRUZ), Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - C Britto
- Laboratório de Biologia Molecular e Doenças Endêmicas, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz (FIOCRUZ), Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - T Costa-Rego
- Laboratório de Biologia Molecular e Doenças Endêmicas, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz (FIOCRUZ), Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - J Ferrolho
- Unidade de Ensino e Investigação em Parasitologia Médica (UEI PM), Global Health and Tropical Medicine (GHTM), Instituto de Higiene e Medicina Tropical (IHMT), Universidade de Nova Lisboa (UNL), Lisbon, Portugal
| | - M Vilhena
- Departamento de Medicina Veterinária, Universidade de Évora, Portugal
| | - E F Rangel
- Laboratório Interdisciplinar de Vigilância Entomológica em Diptera e Hemiptera, FIOCRUZ, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - M L Vilela
- Laboratório Interdisciplinar de Vigilância Entomológica em Diptera e Hemiptera, FIOCRUZ, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - M O Afonso
- Unidade de Ensino e Investigação em Parasitologia Médica (UEI PM), Global Health and Tropical Medicine (GHTM), Instituto de Higiene e Medicina Tropical (IHMT), Universidade de Nova Lisboa (UNL), Lisbon, Portugal
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17
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Coughlan S, Mulhair P, Sanders M, Schonian G, Cotton JA, Downing T. The genome of Leishmania adleri from a mammalian host highlights chromosome fission in Sauroleishmania. Sci Rep 2017; 7:43747. [PMID: 28256610 PMCID: PMC5335649 DOI: 10.1038/srep43747] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2016] [Accepted: 01/26/2017] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Control of pathogens arising from humans, livestock and wild animals can be enhanced by genome-based investigation. Phylogenetically classifying and optimal construction of these genomes using short sequence reads are key to this process. We examined the mammal-infecting unicellular parasite Leishmania adleri belonging to the lizard-infecting Sauroleishmania subgenus. L. adleri has been associated with cutaneous disease in humans, but can be asymptomatic in wild animals. We sequenced, assembled and investigated the L. adleri genome isolated from an asymptomatic Ethiopian rodent (MARV/ET/75/HO174) and verified it as L. adleri by comparison with other Sauroleishmania species. Chromosome-level scaffolding was achieved by combining reference-guided with de novo assembly followed by extensive improvement steps to produce a final draft genome with contiguity comparable with other references. L. tarentolae and L. major genome annotation was transferred and these gene models were manually verified and improved. This first high-quality draft Leishmania adleri reference genome is also the first Sauroleishmania genome from a non-reptilian host. Comparison of the L. adleri HO174 genome with those of L. tarentolae Parrot-TarII and lizard-infecting L. adleri RLAT/KE/1957/SKINK-7 showed extensive gene amplifications, pervasive aneuploidy, and fission of chromosomes 30 and 36. There was little genetic differentiation between L. adleri extracted from mammals and reptiles, highlighting challenges for leishmaniasis surveillance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simone Coughlan
- School of Mathematics, Applied Mathematics and Statistics, National University of Ireland, Galway, Ireland
| | - Peter Mulhair
- School of Biotechnology, Dublin City University, Dublin, Ireland
| | | | | | | | - Tim Downing
- School of Mathematics, Applied Mathematics and Statistics, National University of Ireland, Galway, Ireland
- School of Biotechnology, Dublin City University, Dublin, Ireland
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18
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Detection of Leishmania DNA and blood meal sources in phlebotomine sand flies (Diptera: Psychodidae) in western of Spain: Update on distribution and risk factors associated. Acta Trop 2016; 164:414-424. [PMID: 27720626 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2016.10.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2016] [Revised: 08/23/2016] [Accepted: 10/03/2016] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Leishmaniosis caused by Leishmania infantum is present in Mediterranean countries, with high prevalence in areas of the center and south of Spain. However, in some regions such as Extremadura (in southwest of Spain), data has not been updated since 1997. The aim of this work was (i) to provide information about the distribution of phlebotomine sand fly species in western of Spain (Extremadura region), (ii) to determine risk factors for the presence of sand fly vectors and (iii) to detect Leishmania DNA and identify blood meal sources in wild caught females. During 2012-2013, sand flies were surveyed using CDC miniature light-traps in 13 of 20 counties in Extremadura. Specimens were identified morphologically and females were used for molecular detection of Leishmania DNA by kDNA, ITS-1 and cyt-B. In addition, blood meals origins were analyzed by a PCR based in vertebrate cyt b gene. A total of 1083 sand flies of both gender were captured and identified. Five species were collected, Phlebotomus perniciosus (60.76%), Sergentomyia minuta (29.92%), P. ariasi (7.11%), P. papatasi (1.48%) and P. sergenti (0.74%). The last three species constitute the first report in Badajoz, the most southern province of Extremadura region. Leishmania DNA was detected in three out of 435 females (one P. pernicious and two S. minuta). Characterization of obtained DNA sequences by phylogenetic analyses revealed close relatedness with Leishmania tarentolae in S. minuta and L. infantum in P. perniciosus. Haematic preferences showed a wide range of hosts, namely: swine, humans, sheep, rabbits, horses, donkeys and turkeys. The simultaneous presence of P. perniciosus and P. ariasi vectors, the analysis of blood meals, together with the detection of L. infantum and in S. minuta of L. tarentolae, confirms the ideal conditions for the transmission of this parasitosis in the western of Spain. These results improve the epidemiological knowledge of leishmaniosis and its vectors in this part of Spain, highlighting the need for ongoing entomological and parasitological surveillance.
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19
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Bravo-Barriga D, Parreira R, Almeida AP, Calado M, Blanco-Ciudad J, Serrano-Aguilera FJ, Pérez-Martín JE, Sánchez-Peinado J, Pinto J, Reina D, Frontera E. Culex pipiens as a potential vector for transmission of Dirofilaria immitis and other unclassified Filarioidea in Southwest Spain. Vet Parasitol 2016; 223:173-80. [DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2016.04.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2016] [Revised: 04/12/2016] [Accepted: 04/17/2016] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
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