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Ghielmetti G, Loubser J, Kerr TJ, Stuber T, Thacker T, Martin LC, O'Hare MA, Mhlophe SK, Okunola A, Loxton AG, Warren RM, Moseley MH, Miller MA, Goosen WJ. Advancing animal tuberculosis surveillance using culture-independent long-read whole-genome sequencing. Front Microbiol 2023; 14:1307440. [PMID: 38075895 PMCID: PMC10699144 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2023.1307440] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2023] [Accepted: 10/23/2023] [Indexed: 02/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Animal tuberculosis is a significant infectious disease affecting both livestock and wildlife populations worldwide. Effective disease surveillance and characterization of Mycobacterium bovis (M. bovis) strains are essential for understanding transmission dynamics and implementing control measures. Currently, sequencing of genomic information has relied on culture-based methods, which are time-consuming, resource-demanding, and concerning in terms of biosafety. This study explores the use of culture-independent long-read whole-genome sequencing (WGS) for a better understanding of M. bovis epidemiology in African buffaloes (Syncerus caffer). By comparing two sequencing approaches, we evaluated the efficacy of Illumina WGS performed on culture extracts and culture-independent Oxford Nanopore adaptive sampling (NAS). Our objective was to assess the potential of NAS to detect genomic variants without sample culture. In addition, culture-independent amplicon sequencing, targeting mycobacterial-specific housekeeping and full-length 16S rRNA genes, was applied to investigate the presence of microorganisms, including nontuberculous mycobacteria. The sequencing quality obtained from DNA extracted directly from tissues using NAS is comparable to the sequencing quality of reads generated from culture-derived DNA using both NAS and Illumina technologies. We present a new approach that provides complete and accurate genome sequence reconstruction, culture independently, and using an economically affordable technique.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giovanni Ghielmetti
- Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, South African Medical Research Council Centre for Tuberculosis Research, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
- Section of Veterinary Bacteriology, Institute for Food Safety and Hygiene, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Johannes Loubser
- Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, South African Medical Research Council Centre for Tuberculosis Research, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Tanya J. Kerr
- Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, South African Medical Research Council Centre for Tuberculosis Research, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Tod Stuber
- National Veterinary Services Laboratories, Veterinary Services, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, United States Department of Agriculture, Ames, IA, United States
| | - Tyler Thacker
- National Veterinary Services Laboratories, Veterinary Services, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, United States Department of Agriculture, Ames, IA, United States
| | - Lauren C. Martin
- Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, South African Medical Research Council Centre for Tuberculosis Research, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Michaela A. O'Hare
- Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, South African Medical Research Council Centre for Tuberculosis Research, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Sinegugu K. Mhlophe
- Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, South African Medical Research Council Centre for Tuberculosis Research, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Abisola Okunola
- Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, South African Medical Research Council Centre for Tuberculosis Research, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Andre G. Loxton
- Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, South African Medical Research Council Centre for Tuberculosis Research, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Robin M. Warren
- Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, South African Medical Research Council Centre for Tuberculosis Research, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Mark H. Moseley
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, United Kingdom
| | - Michele A. Miller
- Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, South African Medical Research Council Centre for Tuberculosis Research, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Wynand J. Goosen
- Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, South African Medical Research Council Centre for Tuberculosis Research, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
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Cooke DM, Goosen WJ, Burgess T, Witte C, Miller MA. Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex detection in rural goat herds in South Africa using Bayesian latent class analysis. Vet Immunol Immunopathol 2023; 257:110559. [PMID: 36739737 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetimm.2023.110559] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2022] [Revised: 01/30/2023] [Accepted: 02/01/2023] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Animal tuberculosis affects a wide range of domestic and wild animal species, including goats (Capra hircus). In South Africa, Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex (MTBC) testing and surveillance in domestic goats is not widely applied, potentially leading to under recognition of goats as a potential source of M. bovis spread to cattle as well as humans and wildlife. The aim of this study was to estimate diagnostic test performance for four assays and determine whether M. bovis infection was present in goats sharing communal pastures with M. bovis positive cattle in the Umkhanyakude district of Northern Zululand, KwaZulu Natal. In 2019, 137 M. bovis-exposed goats were screened for MTBC infection with four diagnostic tests: the in vivo single intradermal comparative cervical tuberculin test (SICCT), in vitro QuantiFERON®-TB Gold (QFT) bovine interferon-gamma release assay (IGRA), QFT bovine interferon gamma induced protein 10 (IP-10) release assay (IPRA), and nasal swabs tested with the Cepheid GeneXpert® MTB/RIF Ultra (GXU) assay for detection of MTBC DNA. A Bayesian latent class analysis was used to estimate MTBC prevalence and diagnostic test sensitivity and specificity. Among the 137 M. bovis-exposed goats, positive test results were identified in 15/136 (11.0%) goats by the SICCT; 4/128 (3.1%) goats by the IPRA; 2/128 (1.6%) goats by the IGRA; and 26/134 (19.4%) nasal swabs by the GXU. True prevalence was estimated by our model to be 1.1%, suggesting that goats in these communal herds are infected with MTBC at a low level. Estimated posterior means across the four evaluated assays ranged from 62.7% to 80.9% for diagnostic sensitivity and from 82.9% to 97.9% for diagnostic specificity, albeit estimates of the former (diagnostic sensitivity) were dependent on model assumptions. The application of a Bayesian latent class analysis and multiple ante-mortem test results may improve detection of MTBC, especially when prevalence is low. Our results provide a foundation for further investigation to confirm infection in communal goat herds and identify previously unrecognized sources of intra- and inter-species transmission of MTBC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deborah M Cooke
- Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, South Africa; South African Medical Research Council Centre for Tuberculosis Research 8000, South Africa; DSI-NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, PO Box 241, Cape Town 8000, South Africa.
| | - Wynand J Goosen
- Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, South Africa; South African Medical Research Council Centre for Tuberculosis Research 8000, South Africa; DSI-NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, PO Box 241, Cape Town 8000, South Africa.
| | - Tristan Burgess
- Center for Wildlife Studies, P.O. Box 56 South Freeport, ME 04078, USA.
| | - Carmel Witte
- Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, South Africa; South African Medical Research Council Centre for Tuberculosis Research 8000, South Africa; DSI-NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, PO Box 241, Cape Town 8000, South Africa; Center for Wildlife Studies, P.O. Box 56 South Freeport, ME 04078, USA.
| | - Michele A Miller
- Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, South Africa; South African Medical Research Council Centre for Tuberculosis Research 8000, South Africa; DSI-NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, PO Box 241, Cape Town 8000, South Africa.
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High-Specificity Test Algorithm for Bovine Tuberculosis Diagnosis in African Buffalo ( Syncerus caffer) Herds. Pathogens 2022; 11:pathogens11121393. [PMID: 36558727 PMCID: PMC9784303 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens11121393] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2022] [Revised: 11/11/2022] [Accepted: 11/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Ante-mortem bovine tuberculosis (bTB) tests for buffaloes include the single comparative intradermal tuberculin test (SCITT), interferon-gamma (IFN-γ) release assay (IGRA) and IFN-γ-inducible protein 10 release assay (IPRA). Although parallel test interpretation increases the detection of Mycobacterium bovis (M. bovis)-infected buffaloes, these algorithms may not be suitable for screening buffaloes in historically bTB-free herds. In this study, the specificities of three assays were determined using M. bovis-unexposed herds, historically negative, and a high-specificity diagnostic algorithm was developed. Serial test interpretation (positive on both) using the IGRA and IPRA showed significantly greater specificity (98.3%) than individual (90.4% and 80.9%, respectively) tests or parallel testing (73%). When the SCITT was added, the algorithm had 100% specificity. Since the cytokine assays had imperfect specificity, potential cross-reactivity with nontuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) was investigated. No association was found between NTM presence (in oronasal swab cultures) and positive cytokine assay results. As a proof-of-principle, serial testing was applied to buffaloes (n = 153) in a historically bTB-free herd. Buffaloes positive on a single test (n = 28) were regarded as test-negative. Four buffaloes were positive on IGRA and IPRA, and M. bovis infection was confirmed by culture. These results demonstrate the value of using IGRA and IPRA in series to screen buffalo herds with no previous history of M. bovis infection.
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Clarke C, Kerr TJ, Warren RM, Kleynhans L, Miller MA, Goosen WJ. Identification and Characterisation of Nontuberculous Mycobacteria in African Buffaloes ( Syncerus caffer), South Africa. Microorganisms 2022; 10:microorganisms10091861. [PMID: 36144463 PMCID: PMC9503067 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms10091861] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2022] [Revised: 09/14/2022] [Accepted: 09/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Diagnosis of bovine tuberculosis (bTB) may be confounded by immunological cross-reactivity to Mycobacterium bovis antigens when animals are sensitised by certain nontuberculous mycobacteria (NTMs). Therefore, this study aimed to investigate NTM species diversity in African buffalo (Syncerus caffer) respiratory secretions and tissue samples, using a combination of novel molecular tools. Oronasal swabs were collected opportunistically from 120 immobilised buffaloes in historically bTB-free herds. In addition, bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF; n = 10) and tissue samples (n = 19) were obtained during post-mortem examination. Mycobacterial species were identified directly from oronasal swab samples using the Xpert MTB/RIF Ultra qPCR (14/120 positive) and GenoType CMdirect (104/120 positive). In addition, all samples underwent mycobacterial culture, and PCRs targeting hsp65 and rpoB were performed. Overall, 55 NTM species were identified in 36 mycobacterial culture-positive swab samples with presence of esat-6 or cfp-10 detected in 20 of 36 isolates. The predominant species were M. avium complex and M. komanii. Nontuberculous mycobacteria were also isolated from 6 of 10 culture-positive BALF and 4 of 19 culture-positive tissue samples. Our findings demonstrate that there is a high diversity of NTMs present in buffaloes, and further investigation should determine their role in confounding bTB diagnosis in this species.
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Ncube P, Bagheri B, Goosen WJ, Miller MA, Sampson SL. Evidence, Challenges, and Knowledge Gaps Regarding Latent Tuberculosis in Animals. Microorganisms 2022; 10:microorganisms10091845. [PMID: 36144447 PMCID: PMC9503773 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms10091845] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2022] [Revised: 09/08/2022] [Accepted: 09/09/2022] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Mycobacterium bovis and other Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex (MTBC) pathogens that cause domestic animal and wildlife tuberculosis have received considerably less attention than M. tuberculosis, the primary cause of human tuberculosis (TB). Human TB studies have shown that different stages of infection can exist, driven by host–pathogen interactions. This results in the emergence of heterogeneous subpopulations of mycobacteria in different phenotypic states, which range from actively replicating (AR) cells to viable but slowly or non-replicating (VBNR), viable but non-culturable (VBNC), and dormant mycobacteria. The VBNR, VBNC, and dormant subpopulations are believed to underlie latent tuberculosis (LTB) in humans; however, it is unclear if a similar phenomenon could be happening in animals. This review discusses the evidence, challenges, and knowledge gaps regarding LTB in animals, and possible host–pathogen differences in the MTBC strains M. tuberculosis and M. bovis during infection. We further consider models that might be adapted from human TB research to investigate how the different phenotypic states of bacteria could influence TB stages in animals. In addition, we explore potential host biomarkers and mycobacterial changes in the DosR regulon, transcriptional sigma factors, and resuscitation-promoting factors that may influence the development of LTB.
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Clarke C, Cooper DV, Miller MA, Goosen WJ. Detection of Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex DNA in oronasal swabs from infected African buffaloes (Syncerus caffer). Sci Rep 2022; 12:1834. [PMID: 35115633 PMCID: PMC8813999 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-05982-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2021] [Accepted: 01/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Mycobacterium bovis (M. bovis), a member of the Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex (MTBC), is the causative agent of bovine TB (bTB) in animals. Spread occurs through inhalation or ingestion of bacilli transmitted from infected individuals. Early and accurate detection of infected African buffaloes shedding M. bovis is essential for interrupting transmission. In this pilot study, we determined if MTBC DNA could be detected in M. bovis infected buffalo oronasal secretions using a molecular transport media (PrimeStore MTM) with oronasal swabs and a rapid qPCR assay (Xpert MTB/RIF Ultra). Bovine TB test-positive buffaloes were culled, then tissue samples and oronasal swabs collected post-mortem for mycobacterial culture and Ultra testing, respectively. The Ultra detected MTBC DNA in 5/12 swabs from M. bovis culture-confirmed buffaloes. Oronasal swabs from M. bovis negative buffaloes (n = 20) were negative on Ultra, indicating the high specificity of this test. This study showed that MTM can successfully preserve MTBC DNA in oronasal swabs. The proportion of MTBC positive oronasal swabs was higher than expected and suggests that the Ultra may be an additional method for identifying infected buffaloes. Further studies are needed to confirm the utility of the Ultra assay with oronasal swabs as an assay to evaluate possible MTBC shedding in buffaloes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charlene Clarke
- DSI-NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research, South African Medical Research Council Centre for Tuberculosis Research, Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, PO Box 241, Cape Town, 8000, South Africa
| | - David V Cooper
- Ezemvelo KwaZulu-Natal Wildlife, PO Box 25, Mtubatuba, 3935, South Africa
| | - Michele A Miller
- DSI-NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research, South African Medical Research Council Centre for Tuberculosis Research, Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, PO Box 241, Cape Town, 8000, South Africa
| | - Wynand J Goosen
- DSI-NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research, South African Medical Research Council Centre for Tuberculosis Research, Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, PO Box 241, Cape Town, 8000, South Africa.
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Goosen WJ, Kleynhans L, Kerr TJ, van Helden PD, Buss P, Warren RM, Miller MA. Improved detection of Mycobacterium tuberculosis and M. bovis in African wildlife samples using cationic peptide decontamination and mycobacterial culture supplementation. J Vet Diagn Invest 2021; 34:61-67. [PMID: 34510986 PMCID: PMC8688974 DOI: 10.1177/10406387211044192] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
In South Africa, mycobacterial culture is regarded as the gold standard for the detection of Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex (MTBC) infection in wildlife even though it is regarded as “imperfect.” We compared a novel decontamination and mycobacterial culture technique (TiKa) to the conventional mycobacterium growth indicator tube (MGIT) system using known amounts of bacilli and clinical samples from MTBC-infected African buffaloes (Syncerus caffer), white rhinoceros (Ceratotherium simum), and African elephants (Loxodonta africana). Use of the TiKa-KiC decontamination agent on samples spiked with 10,000 to 10 colony forming units (cfu) of M. bovis (SB0121) and M. tuberculosis (H37Rv) had no effect on isolate recovery in culture. In contrast, decontamination with MGIT MycoPrep resulted in no growth of M. bovis samples at concentrations < 1,000 cfu and M. tuberculosis samples < 100 cfu. Subsequently, we used the TiKa system with stored clinical samples (various lymphatic tissues) collected from wildlife and paucibacillary bronchoalveolar lavage fluid, trunk washes, and endotracheal tube washes from 3 species with known MTBC infections. Overall, MTBC recovery by culture was improved significantly (p < 0.01) by using TiKa compared to conventional MGIT, with 54 of 57 positive specimens versus 25 of 57 positive specimens, respectively. The TiKa mycobacterial growth system appears to significantly enhance the recovery of MTBC members from tissue and paucibacillary respiratory samples collected from African buffaloes, African elephants, and white rhinoceros. Moreover, the TiKa system may improve success of MTBC culture from various sample types previously deemed unculturable from other species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wynand J Goosen
- DSI-NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research, South African Medical Research Council Centre for Tuberculosis Research, Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Léanie Kleynhans
- DSI-NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research, South African Medical Research Council Centre for Tuberculosis Research, Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Tanya J Kerr
- DSI-NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research, South African Medical Research Council Centre for Tuberculosis Research, Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Paul D van Helden
- DSI-NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research, South African Medical Research Council Centre for Tuberculosis Research, Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Peter Buss
- Veterinary Wildlife Services, Kruger National Park, South African National Parks, Skukuza, South Africa
| | - Robin M Warren
- DSI-NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research, South African Medical Research Council Centre for Tuberculosis Research, Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Michele A Miller
- DSI-NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research, South African Medical Research Council Centre for Tuberculosis Research, Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
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Smith K, Kleynhans L, Warren RM, Goosen WJ, Miller MA. Cell-Mediated Immunological Biomarkers and Their Diagnostic Application in Livestock and Wildlife Infected With Mycobacterium bovis. Front Immunol 2021; 12:639605. [PMID: 33746980 PMCID: PMC7969648 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.639605] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2020] [Accepted: 02/08/2021] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Mycobacterium bovis has the largest host range of the Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex and infects domestic animal species, wildlife, and humans. The presence of global wildlife maintenance hosts complicates bovine tuberculosis (bTB) control efforts and further threatens livestock and wildlife-related industries. Thus, it is imperative that early and accurate detection of M. bovis in all affected animal species is achieved. Further, an improved understanding of the complex species-specific host immune responses to M. bovis could enable the development of diagnostic tests that not only identify infected animals but distinguish between infection and active disease. The primary bTB screening standard worldwide remains the tuberculin skin test (TST) that presents several test performance and logistical limitations. Hence additional tests are used, most commonly an interferon-gamma (IFN-γ) release assay (IGRA) that, similar to the TST, measures a cell-mediated immune (CMI) response to M. bovis. There are various cytokines and chemokines, in addition to IFN-γ, involved in the CMI component of host adaptive immunity. Due to the dominance of CMI-based responses to mycobacterial infection, cytokine and chemokine biomarkers have become a focus for diagnostic tests in livestock and wildlife. Therefore, this review describes the current understanding of host immune responses to M. bovis as it pertains to the development of diagnostic tools using CMI-based biomarkers in both gene expression and protein release assays, and their limitations. Although the study of CMI biomarkers has advanced fundamental understanding of the complex host-M. bovis interplay and bTB progression, resulting in development of several promising diagnostic assays, most of this research remains limited to cattle. Considering differences in host susceptibility, transmission and immune responses, and the wide variety of M. bovis-affected animal species, knowledge gaps continue to pose some of the biggest challenges to the improvement of M. bovis and bTB diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katrin Smith
- Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Department of Science and Innovation-National Research Foundation Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, South African Medical Research Council Centre for Tuberculosis Research, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Léanie Kleynhans
- Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Department of Science and Innovation-National Research Foundation Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, South African Medical Research Council Centre for Tuberculosis Research, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Robin M Warren
- Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Department of Science and Innovation-National Research Foundation Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, South African Medical Research Council Centre for Tuberculosis Research, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Wynand J Goosen
- Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Department of Science and Innovation-National Research Foundation Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, South African Medical Research Council Centre for Tuberculosis Research, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Michele A Miller
- Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Department of Science and Innovation-National Research Foundation Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, South African Medical Research Council Centre for Tuberculosis Research, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
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Thomas J, Balseiro A, Gortázar C, Risalde MA. Diagnosis of tuberculosis in wildlife: a systematic review. Vet Res 2021; 52:31. [PMID: 33627188 PMCID: PMC7905575 DOI: 10.1186/s13567-020-00881-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2020] [Accepted: 12/14/2020] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Animal tuberculosis (TB) is a multi-host disease caused by members of the Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex (MTC). Due to its impact on economy, sanitary standards of milk and meat industry, public health and conservation, TB control is an actively ongoing research subject. Several wildlife species are involved in the maintenance and transmission of TB, so that new approaches to wildlife TB diagnosis have gained relevance in recent years. Diagnosis is a paramount step for screening, epidemiological investigation, as well as for ensuring the success of control strategies such as vaccination trials. This is the first review that systematically addresses data available for the diagnosis of TB in wildlife following the Preferred Reporting Items of Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. The article also gives an overview of the factors related to host, environment, sampling, and diagnostic techniques which can affect test performance. After three screenings, 124 articles were considered for systematic review. Literature indicates that post-mortem examination and culture are useful methods for disease surveillance, but immunological diagnostic tests based on cellular and humoral immune response detection are gaining importance in wildlife TB diagnosis. Among them, serological tests are especially useful in wildlife because they are relatively inexpensive and easy to perform, facilitate large-scale surveillance and can be used both ante- and post-mortem. Currently available studies assessed test performance mostly in cervids, European badgers, wild suids and wild bovids. Research to improve diagnostic tests for wildlife TB diagnosis is still needed in order to reach accurate, rapid and cost-effective diagnostic techniques adequate to a broad range of target species and consistent over space and time to allow proper disease monitoring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jobin Thomas
- Sanidad Y Biotecnología (SaBio), Instituto de Investigación en Recursos Cinegéticos IREC (UCLM-CSIC), 13003, Ciudad Real, Spain.,Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), New Delhi, 110001, India
| | - Ana Balseiro
- Departamento de Sanidad Animal, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de León, 24071, León, Spain. .,Departamento de Sanidad Animal, Instituto de Ganadería de Montaña (CSIC-Universidad de León), Finca Marzanas, Grulleros, 24346, León, Spain.
| | - Christian Gortázar
- Sanidad Y Biotecnología (SaBio), Instituto de Investigación en Recursos Cinegéticos IREC (UCLM-CSIC), 13003, Ciudad Real, Spain
| | - María A Risalde
- Departamento de Anatomía Y Anatomía Patológica Comparadas Y Toxicología. Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de Córdoba (UCO), 14014, Córdoba, Spain.,Unidad de Enfermedades Infecciosas, Grupo de Virología Clínica Y Zoonosis, Instituto Maimónides de Investigación Biomédica de Córdoba (IMIBIC), Hospital Reina Sofía, Universidad de Córdoba (UCO), 14004, Córdoba, Spain
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Smith K, Bernitz N, Cooper D, Kerr TJ, de Waal CR, Clarke C, Goldswain S, McCall W, McCall A, Cooke D, Rambert E, Kleynhans L, Warren RM, van Helden P, Parsons SDC, Goosen WJ, Miller MA. Optimisation of the tuberculin skin test for detection of Mycobacterium bovis in African buffaloes (Syncerus caffer). Prev Vet Med 2021; 188:105254. [PMID: 33465641 DOI: 10.1016/j.prevetmed.2020.105254] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2020] [Revised: 12/25/2020] [Accepted: 12/29/2020] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
Effective screening methods are critical for preventing the spread of bovine tuberculosis (bTB) among livestock and wildlife species. The tuberculin skin test (TST) remains the primary test for bTB globally, although performance is suboptimal. African buffaloes (Syncerus caffer) are a maintenance host of Mycobacterium bovis in South Africa, tested using the single intradermal tuberculin test (SITT) or comparative test (SICTT). The interpretation of these tests has been based on cattle thresholds due to the lack of species-specific cut-off values for African buffaloes. Therefore, the aims of this study were to calculate buffalo-specific thresholds for different TST criteria (SITT, SICTT, and SICTT72h that calculates the differential change at 72 h only) and compare performance using these cut-off values. The results confirm that 3 mm best discriminates M. bovis-infected from unexposed control buffaloes with sensitivities of 69 % (95 % CI 60-78; SITT and SICTT) and 76 % (95 % CI 65-83; SICTT72h), and specificities of 86 % (95 % CI 80-90; SITT), 96 % (95 % CI 92-98; SICTT72h) and 97 % (95 % CI 93-99; SICTT), respectively. A comparison between TST criteria using buffalo-specific thresholds demonstrates that the comparative TST performs better than the SITT, although sensitivity remains suboptimal. Therefore, further research and the addition of ancillary tests, such as cytokine release assays, are necessary to improve M. bovis detection in African buffaloes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katrin Smith
- DSI-NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research, South African Medical Research Council Centre for Tuberculosis Research, Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Netanya Bernitz
- DSI-NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research, South African Medical Research Council Centre for Tuberculosis Research, Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - David Cooper
- Ezemvelo KwaZulu-Natal Wildlife, PO Box 25, Mtubatuba 3935, South Africa
| | - Tanya J Kerr
- DSI-NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research, South African Medical Research Council Centre for Tuberculosis Research, Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Candice R de Waal
- DSI-NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research, South African Medical Research Council Centre for Tuberculosis Research, Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Charlene Clarke
- DSI-NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research, South African Medical Research Council Centre for Tuberculosis Research, Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Samantha Goldswain
- DSI-NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research, South African Medical Research Council Centre for Tuberculosis Research, Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Warren McCall
- Hluhluwe State Veterinary Office, Hluhluwe, KZN, South Africa
| | - Alicia McCall
- Hluhluwe State Veterinary Office, Hluhluwe, KZN, South Africa
| | - Debbie Cooke
- DSI-NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research, South African Medical Research Council Centre for Tuberculosis Research, Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Emma Rambert
- Vlakpan Animal Clinic, PO Box 134, Modderrivier 8700, South Africa
| | - Léanie Kleynhans
- DSI-NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research, South African Medical Research Council Centre for Tuberculosis Research, Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Robin M Warren
- DSI-NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research, South African Medical Research Council Centre for Tuberculosis Research, Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Paul van Helden
- DSI-NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research, South African Medical Research Council Centre for Tuberculosis Research, Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Sven D C Parsons
- DSI-NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research, South African Medical Research Council Centre for Tuberculosis Research, Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Wynand J Goosen
- DSI-NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research, South African Medical Research Council Centre for Tuberculosis Research, Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Michele A Miller
- DSI-NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research, South African Medical Research Council Centre for Tuberculosis Research, Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa.
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11
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Smith K, Bernitz N, Goldswain S, Cooper DV, Warren RM, Goosen WJ, Miller MA. Optimized interferon-gamma release assays for detection of Mycobacterium bovis infection in African buffaloes (Syncerus caffer). Vet Immunol Immunopathol 2020; 231:110163. [PMID: 33276277 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetimm.2020.110163] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2020] [Revised: 11/15/2020] [Accepted: 11/17/2020] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
The African buffalo (Syncerus caffer) is an economically and ecologically important wildlife species in South Africa; it is also a primary wildlife maintenance host of Mycobacterium bovis. Accurate and early detection of M. bovis infection in buffaloes is important for controlling transmission. Assays that detect cell-mediated immune responses to M. bovis in buffaloes have been developed although these often display suboptimal sensitivity or specificity. Therefore, the aim of this study was to evaluate the newly available Mabtech bovine interferon-gamma (IFN-γ) ELISAPRO kit and optimize its use for detection of buffalo IFN-γ in whole blood samples stimulated with the QuantiFERON® TB Gold Plus antigens. Additionally, the test performance of the Mabtech IFN-γ release assay (IGRA) was compared to the currently used Cattletype® IGRA by determining buffalo-specific cut-off values for the two IGRAs and using gold standard-positive (M. bovis culture-confirmed) and M. bovis-unexposed negative cohorts. Validation of the Mabtech ELISA revealed negligible matrix interference and a linear and parallel response for recombinant bovine and native buffalo IFN-γ in the range 1.95-250 pg/mL. Intra- and inter-assay reproducibility produced coefficients of variation <5.5 % and <6.1 %, respectively, with a limit of detection at 3.2 pg/mL. Using receiver operator characteristic curve analyses, buffalo-specific cut-off values were calculated as 8 pg/mL for the Mabtech IGRA and 5 % (signal to positive control ratio) for the Cattletype® IGRA. The sensitivities were 89 % and 83 % for the Mabtech and Cattletype IGRAs with specificities of 94 % and 97 %, respectively. Although the species-specific cut-off values require further evaluation in a relevant test group, the results suggest that the Mabtech IGRA is a promising, sensitive and specific diagnostic tool for M. bovis detection in African buffaloes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katrin Smith
- Department of Science and Innovation, National Research Foundation Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research, South African Medical Research Council Centre for Tuberculosis Research, Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Netanya Bernitz
- Department of Science and Innovation, National Research Foundation Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research, South African Medical Research Council Centre for Tuberculosis Research, Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Samantha Goldswain
- Department of Science and Innovation, National Research Foundation Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research, South African Medical Research Council Centre for Tuberculosis Research, Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - David V Cooper
- Ezemvelo KwaZulu-Natal Wildlife, PO Box 25, Mtubatuba 3935, South Africa
| | - Robin M Warren
- Department of Science and Innovation, National Research Foundation Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research, South African Medical Research Council Centre for Tuberculosis Research, Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Wynand J Goosen
- Department of Science and Innovation, National Research Foundation Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research, South African Medical Research Council Centre for Tuberculosis Research, Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Michele A Miller
- Department of Science and Innovation, National Research Foundation Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research, South African Medical Research Council Centre for Tuberculosis Research, Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa.
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12
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Smith K, Kleynhans L, Snyders C, Bernitz N, Cooper D, van Helden P, Warren RM, Miller MA, Goosen WJ. Use of the MILLIPLEX ® bovine cytokine/chemokine multiplex assay to identify Mycobacterium bovis-infection biomarkers in African buffaloes (Syncerus caffer). Vet Immunol Immunopathol 2020; 231:110152. [PMID: 33227620 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetimm.2020.110152] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2020] [Revised: 09/17/2020] [Accepted: 11/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
As a recognized Mycobacterium bovis maintenance host, the African buffalo (Syncerus caffer) poses transmission risks to livestock, humans and other wildlife. Early detection of M. bovis infection is critical for limiting its spread. Currently, tests detecting cell-mediated immune responses are used for diagnosis in buffaloes. However, these may have suboptimal sensitivity or specificity, depending on the blood stimulation method. Recent evidence suggests that assays using combinations of host cytokine biomarkers may increase diagnostic performance. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the application of a MILLIPLEX® bovine cytokine/chemokine multiplex assay to identify candidate biomarkers of M. bovis infection in buffaloes. Whole blood from twelve culture-confirmed M. bovis-infected buffaloes, stimulated with the QuantiFERON® TB Gold Plus in-tube system, was tested using the MILLIPLEX® platform. Results indicated binding of bovine antibodies to fifteen buffalo cytokine/chemokine targets. Moreover, there was a significant difference in concentrations between unstimulated and TB antigen-stimulated buffalo samples for seven cytokines/chemokines included in the kit. Although these preliminary results require further investigation in larger sample sets and a comparison between M. bovis-infected and uninfected cohorts, the utility of the MILLIPLEX® platform in a novel species was demonstrated, in addition to identifying potential African buffalo cytokines for future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katrin Smith
- DSI-NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research, South African Medical Research Council Centre for Tuberculosis Research, Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Léanie Kleynhans
- DSI-NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research, South African Medical Research Council Centre for Tuberculosis Research, Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Candice Snyders
- DSI-NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research, South African Medical Research Council Centre for Tuberculosis Research, Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Netanya Bernitz
- DSI-NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research, South African Medical Research Council Centre for Tuberculosis Research, Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - David Cooper
- Ezemvelo KwaZulu-Natal Wildlife, PO Box 25, Mtubatuba 3935, South Africa
| | - Paul van Helden
- DSI-NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research, South African Medical Research Council Centre for Tuberculosis Research, Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Robin M Warren
- DSI-NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research, South African Medical Research Council Centre for Tuberculosis Research, Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Michele A Miller
- DSI-NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research, South African Medical Research Council Centre for Tuberculosis Research, Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Wynand J Goosen
- DSI-NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research, South African Medical Research Council Centre for Tuberculosis Research, Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa.
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13
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Test Characteristics of Assays to Detect Mycobacterium bovis Infection in High-Prevalence African Buffalo (Syncerus caffer) Herds. J Wildl Dis 2020. [DOI: 10.7589/2019-06-173] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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14
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Cytokine gene expression assay as a diagnostic tool for detection of Mycobacterium bovis infection in warthogs (Phacochoerus africanus). Sci Rep 2019; 9:16525. [PMID: 31712604 PMCID: PMC6848127 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-53045-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2019] [Accepted: 10/28/2019] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Mycobacterium bovis infection has been described in many wildlife species across Africa. However, diagnostic tests are lacking for many of these, including warthogs (Phacochoerus africanus). Most literature on suids has focused on using serological tools, with few studies investigating the use of cell-mediated immune response (CMI) assays. A recent study showed that warthogs develop measurable CMI responses, which suggests that cytokine gene expression assays (GEAs) may be valuable for detecting M. bovis-infection, as shown in numerous African wildlife species. Therefore, the aim of the study was to develop GEAs capable of distinguishing between M. bovis-infected and uninfected warthogs. Whole blood was stimulated using the QuantiFERON-TB Gold (In-Tube) system, using ESAT-6 and CFP-10 peptides, before determining the relative gene expression of five reference (B2M, H3F3A, LDHA, PPIA and YWHAZ) and five target (CXCL9, CXCL10, CXCL11, IFNG and TNFA) genes through qPCR. The reference gene H3F3A was the most stably expressed, while all target genes were significantly upregulated in M. bovis-infected warthogs with the greatest upregulation observed for CXCL10. Consequently, the CXCL10 GEA shows promise as an ante-mortem diagnostic tool for the detection of M. bovis-infected warthogs.
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15
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An interferon-gamma release assay for the diagnosis of the Mycobacterium bovis infection in white rhinoceros (Ceratotherium simum). Vet Immunol Immunopathol 2019; 217:109931. [PMID: 31522092 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetimm.2019.109931] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2019] [Revised: 08/07/2019] [Accepted: 08/14/2019] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Mycobacterium bovis (M. bovis), the cause of bovine tuberculosis, is endemic in Kruger National Park (KNP), South Africa. The risk of spread of M. bovis infection currently prevents translocation of white rhinoceros (Ceratotherium simum) from this population. Therefore, accurate assays are necessary for screening this threatened species. Interferon gamma (IFN-γ) release assays (IGRA) are commonly used for tuberculosis diagnosis in humans and other wildlife species. Hence, the aim of this study was to develop an IGRA for M. bovis detection in white rhinoceros. Heparinized whole blood was collected from immobilized white rhinoceros in KNP (n = 131) and incubated overnight in QuantiFERON®-TB Gold (QFT) blood collection tubes, after which the plasma was harvested following centrifugation. Tissue samples for mycobacterial culture were available from a subset of 21 rhinoceros. The concentration of IFN-γ in plasma samples was measured using the Mabtech equine IFN-γ ELISAPRO kit. An IGRA result was calculated as the difference in IFN-γ concentrations in the QFT Nil and TB antigen tubes. Using test results for the white rhinoceros with known infection status, a diagnostic cut-off value was calculated as 21 pg/ml. Additionally, cut-off values for IFN-γ concentrations for plasma from QFT Nil and QFT Mitogen tubes were calculated to increase confidence in IGRA result interpretation. The combination of the QFT stimulation platform and Mabtech equine IFN-γ ELISA is a promising diagnostic test to distinguish between of M. bovis-infected and -uninfected white rhinoceros.
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16
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Bernitz N, Kerr TJ, Goosen WJ, Clarke C, Higgitt R, Roos EO, Cooper DV, Warren RM, van Helden PD, Parsons SDC, Miller MA. Parallel measurement of IFN-γ and IP-10 in QuantiFERON®-TB Gold (QFT) plasma improves the detection of Mycobacterium bovis infection in African buffaloes (Syncerus caffer). Prev Vet Med 2019; 169:104700. [PMID: 31311648 DOI: 10.1016/j.prevetmed.2019.104700] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2019] [Revised: 05/22/2019] [Accepted: 05/22/2019] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
The QuantiFERON®-TB Gold (QFT) stimulation platform for cytokine release is a novel approach for diagnosis of bovine tuberculosis in wildlife species. Plasma interferon gamma (IFN-γ) is routinely measured to detect immune sensitization to Mycobacterium bovis. However, the cytokine interferon gamma-inducible protein 10 (IP-10) has been proposed as an alternative, more sensitive, diagnostic biomarker. In this study, we investigated the use of the QFT system with measurement of IFN-γ and IP-10 in parallel to identify M. bovis-infected African buffaloes. The test results of either biomarker in a cohort of M. bovis-unexposed buffaloes (n = 70) led to calculation of 100% test specificity. Furthermore, in cohorts of M. bovis culture-positive (n = 51) and M. bovis-suspect (n = 22) buffaloes, the IP-10 test results were positive in a greater number of animals than the number based on the IFN-γ test results. Most notably, when the biomarkers were measured in parallel, the tests identified all M. bovis culture-positive buffaloes, a result neither the single comparative intradermal tuberculin test (SCITT) nor Bovigam® IFN-γ release assay (IGRA) achieved, individually or in parallel. These findings demonstrate the diagnostic potential of this blood-based assay to identify M. bovis-infected African buffaloes and a strategy to maximise the detection of infected animals while maintaining diagnostic specificity and simplifying test procedures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Netanya Bernitz
- DST-NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research, South African Medical Research Council Centre for Tuberculosis Research, Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa.
| | - Tanya J Kerr
- DST-NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research, South African Medical Research Council Centre for Tuberculosis Research, Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa.
| | - Wynand J Goosen
- DST-NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research, South African Medical Research Council Centre for Tuberculosis Research, Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa.
| | - Charlene Clarke
- DST-NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research, South African Medical Research Council Centre for Tuberculosis Research, Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa.
| | - Roxanne Higgitt
- DST-NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research, South African Medical Research Council Centre for Tuberculosis Research, Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa.
| | - Eduard O Roos
- DST-NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research, South African Medical Research Council Centre for Tuberculosis Research, Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa.
| | - David V Cooper
- Ezemvelo KwaZulu-Natal Wildlife, PO Box 25, Mtubatuba, 3935, South Africa.
| | - Robin M Warren
- DST-NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research, South African Medical Research Council Centre for Tuberculosis Research, Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa.
| | - Paul D van Helden
- DST-NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research, South African Medical Research Council Centre for Tuberculosis Research, Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa.
| | - Sven D C Parsons
- DST-NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research, South African Medical Research Council Centre for Tuberculosis Research, Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa.
| | - Michele A Miller
- DST-NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research, South African Medical Research Council Centre for Tuberculosis Research, Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa.
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17
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AN INTERFERON GAMMA RELEASE ASSAY FOR THE DETECTION OF IMMUNE SENSITIZATION TO MYCOBACTERIUM BOVIS IN AFRICAN WILD DOGS ( LYCAON PICTUS). J Wildl Dis 2018; 55:529-536. [PMID: 30557121 DOI: 10.7589/2018-03-089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
In South Africa, the largest proportion of the African wild dog (Lycaon pictus) population resides in regions where buffaloes have a high prevalence of Mycobacterium bovis, the causative agent of bovine tuberculosis (bTB). Recent reports of deaths of wild dogs associated with bTB have raised concerns regarding the threat this disease might pose for this species. In order to understand the potential impact of the disease in wild dogs, diagnostic tools are required to identify infected individuals. The interferon gamma (IFN-γ) release assay (IGRA) is commonly used for tuberculosis (TB) screening of humans, cattle, and other species, and the aim of this study was to develop an IGRA for wild dogs to detect immune sensitization. Blood was collected from immobilized wild dogs from the Ann van Dyk Cheetah Centre (AvDCC; n=9) and Kruger National Park (KNP; n=31). Heparinized whole blood was incubated overnight in QuantiFERON®-TB Gold (QFT) blood collection tubes and with selected mitogens, after which the plasma fraction was harvested. Three canine IFN-γ enzymelinked immunosorbent assays (ELISAs) were compared for detection of wild dog IFN-γ in plasma and the R&D Quantikine canine IFN-γ ELISA was selected for measurement of M. bovis-specific IFN-γ release in plasma samples. An IGRA result was calculated as the concentration in plasma derived from the QFT TB Antigen tubes minus that in the QFT Nil tube. An IGRA cut-off value was calculated using the IGRA results of M. bovis-unexposed individuals from AvDCC. Using this cut-off value, 74% (23/31) of M. bovis-exposed KNP wild dogs were IGRA positive, indicating immune sensitization to TB antigens in these animals. Three M. bovis culture-positive wild dogs from KNP had IFN-γ concentrations between 758 and 1,445 pg/mL, supporting this interpretation. This warrants further investigation into the prevalence of M. bovis infection in the KNP population.
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18
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Bernitz N, Goosen WJ, Clarke C, Kerr TJ, Higgitt R, Roos EO, Cooper DV, Warren RM, van Helden PD, Parsons SD, Miller MA. Parallel testing increases detection of Mycobacterium bovis-infected African buffaloes (Syncerus caffer). Vet Immunol Immunopathol 2018; 204:40-43. [DOI: 10.1016/j.vetimm.2018.09.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2018] [Revised: 08/22/2018] [Accepted: 09/16/2018] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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19
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Roos EO, Olea-Popelka F, Buss P, de Klerk-Lorist LM, Cooper D, Warren RM, van Helden PD, Parsons SDC, Miller MA. IP-10: A potential biomarker for detection of Mycobacterium bovis infection in warthogs (Phacochoerus africanus). Vet Immunol Immunopathol 2018; 201:43-48. [PMID: 29914681 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetimm.2018.05.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2018] [Revised: 04/30/2018] [Accepted: 05/14/2018] [Indexed: 10/16/2022]
Abstract
Bovine tuberculosis (bTB) is endemic in several areas of South Africa and has been reported in multiple species, including common warthogs (Phacochoerus africanus). Limited diagnostic tests and disease control programs exist for African wildlife. Thus, there is a need to develop techniques for bTB detection in species such as warthogs to assess their role in disease maintenance and spread in multi-host ecosystems. In this study, we obtained blood samples from warthogs in bTB endemic areas to investigate biomarkers for detection of Mycobacterium bovis infection. Warthog whole blood was incubated in QuantiFERON® TB Gold In-Tube tubes and pathogen specific release of interferon gamma (IFN-γ) and interferon gamma induced protein 10 (IP-10) was measured by a sandwich enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Although we were unable to measure IFN-γ, we could successfully measure IP-10. The IP-10 assay was able to distinguish between M. bovis-infected and M. bovis-culture negative warthogs, within bTB endemic areas, with an assay specific sensitivity of 68% and specificity of 84%. Of the 88 M. bovis-exposed warthogs screened, 42% were IP-10 test positive. These results indicate warthogs develop a measurable cell-mediated immune response after antigen stimulation of whole blood, which can distinguish between M. bovis-infected and M. bovis-culture negative animals. Thus, the IP-10 assay shows promise as an ante-mortem test to diagnose bTB in warthogs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eduard O Roos
- Department of Science and Technology/National Research Foundation Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research, South African Medical Research Council Centre for Tuberculosis Research, Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, PO Box 241, Cape Town 8000, South Africa.
| | - Francisco Olea-Popelka
- Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Colorado State University, 300 W. Drake Rd, Fort Collins, CO 80523, USA.
| | - Peter Buss
- Veterinary Wildlife Services, South African National Parks, Kruger National Park, Private Bag X402, Skukuza, 1350, South Africa.
| | - Lin-Mari de Klerk-Lorist
- Office of the State Veterinarian, Kruger National Park, PO Box 12, Skukuza 1350, Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, South Africa.
| | - David Cooper
- Ezemvelo KwaZulu Natal Wildlife, PO Box 25, Mtubatuba 3935, South Africa.
| | - Robin M Warren
- Department of Science and Technology/National Research Foundation Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research, South African Medical Research Council Centre for Tuberculosis Research, Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, PO Box 241, Cape Town 8000, South Africa.
| | - Paul D van Helden
- Department of Science and Technology/National Research Foundation Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research, South African Medical Research Council Centre for Tuberculosis Research, Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, PO Box 241, Cape Town 8000, South Africa.
| | - Sven D C Parsons
- Department of Science and Technology/National Research Foundation Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research, South African Medical Research Council Centre for Tuberculosis Research, Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, PO Box 241, Cape Town 8000, South Africa.
| | - Michele A Miller
- Department of Science and Technology/National Research Foundation Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research, South African Medical Research Council Centre for Tuberculosis Research, Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, PO Box 241, Cape Town 8000, South Africa.
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20
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Clarke C, Cooper D, Goosen WJ, McFadyen R, Warren RM, van Helden PD, Parsons SDC, Miller MA. Antigen-specific interferon-gamma release is decreased following the single intradermal comparative cervical skin test in African buffaloes (Syncerus caffer). Vet Immunol Immunopathol 2018; 201:12-15. [PMID: 29914675 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetimm.2018.05.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2018] [Revised: 04/30/2018] [Accepted: 05/07/2018] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Effective disease management of wildlife relies on the strategic application of ante-mortem diagnostic tests for early identification and removal of M. bovis-infected animals. To improve diagnostic performance, interferon-gamma release assays (IGRAs) are often used in conjunction with the tuberculin skin test (TST). Since buffaloes are major maintenance hosts of M. bovis, optimal application of bovine TB diagnostic tests are especially important. We aimed to determine whether the timing of blood collection relative to the TST has an influence on IFN-γ production and diagnostic outcome in African buffaloes. Release of IFN-γ in response to bovine purified protein derivative (PPD), avian PPD and PC-HP® and PC-EC® peptides was measured by Bovigam® and an in-house IGRA in a group of Bovigam®-positive and - negative buffaloes at the time the TST was performed and three days later. There was significantly lower IFN-γ release in response to these antigens post-TST in Bovigam®-positive buffaloes, but no significant changes in Bovigam®-negative buffaloes. Also, a significantly greater proportion of buffaloes were Bovigam®-positive prior to the TST than three days later. We therefore recommend that blood samples for use in IGRAs be collected prior to or at the time the TST is performed to facilitate the correct identification of greater numbers of IGRA-positive buffaloes.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Clarke
- DST/NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical TB Research/SAMRC Centre for Tuberculosis Research/Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, P.O. Box 241, Cape Town, 8000, South Africa
| | - D Cooper
- Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife, P.O. Box 25, Mtubatuba, 3935, South Africa
| | - W J Goosen
- DST/NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical TB Research/SAMRC Centre for Tuberculosis Research/Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, P.O. Box 241, Cape Town, 8000, South Africa
| | - R McFadyen
- DST/NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical TB Research/SAMRC Centre for Tuberculosis Research/Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, P.O. Box 241, Cape Town, 8000, South Africa
| | - R M Warren
- DST/NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical TB Research/SAMRC Centre for Tuberculosis Research/Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, P.O. Box 241, Cape Town, 8000, South Africa
| | - P D van Helden
- DST/NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical TB Research/SAMRC Centre for Tuberculosis Research/Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, P.O. Box 241, Cape Town, 8000, South Africa
| | - S D C Parsons
- DST/NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical TB Research/SAMRC Centre for Tuberculosis Research/Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, P.O. Box 241, Cape Town, 8000, South Africa
| | - M A Miller
- DST/NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical TB Research/SAMRC Centre for Tuberculosis Research/Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, P.O. Box 241, Cape Town, 8000, South Africa.
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Miller MA, Buss PE, van Helden PD, Parsons SD. Mycobacterium bovis in a Free-Ranging Black Rhinoceros, Kruger National Park, South Africa, 2016. Emerg Infect Dis 2018; 23:557-558. [PMID: 28221132 PMCID: PMC5382732 DOI: 10.3201/eid2303.161622] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
In 2016, an emaciated black rhinoceros (Diceros bicornis) was found in Kruger National Park, South Africa. An interferon-γ response was detected against mycobacterial antigens, and lung tissue was positive for Mycobacterium bovis. This case highlights the risk that tuberculosis presents to rhinoceros in M. bovis–endemic areas.
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Bernitz N, Clarke C, Roos EO, Goosen WJ, Cooper D, van Helden PD, Parsons SD, Miller MA. Detection of Mycobacterium bovis infection in African buffaloes ( Syncerus caffer ) using QuantiFERON ® -TB Gold (QFT) tubes and the Qiagen cattletype ® IFN-gamma ELISA. Vet Immunol Immunopathol 2018; 196:48-52. [DOI: 10.1016/j.vetimm.2017.12.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2017] [Revised: 12/04/2017] [Accepted: 12/20/2017] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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Roupie V, Alonso-Velasco E, Van Der Heyden S, Holbert S, Duytschaever L, Berthon P, Van Dosselaer I, Van Campe W, Mostin L, Biet F, Roels S, Huygen K, Fretin D. Evaluation of mycobacteria-specific gamma interferon and antibody responses before and after a single intradermal skin test in cattle naturally exposed to M. avium subsp. paratuberculosis and experimentally infected with M. bovis. Vet Immunol Immunopathol 2018; 196:35-47. [DOI: 10.1016/j.vetimm.2017.12.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2017] [Revised: 11/29/2017] [Accepted: 12/09/2017] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
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Higgitt RL, Buss PE, van Helden PD, Miller MA, Parsons SDC. Development of gene expression assays measuring immune responses in the spotted hyena (Crocuta crocuta). AFRICAN ZOOLOGY 2017. [DOI: 10.1080/15627020.2017.1309300] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Roxanne L Higgitt
- DST/NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research/SAMRC Centre for TB Research/Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Tygerberg, South Africa
| | - Peter E Buss
- Veterinary Wildlife Services, South African National Parks, Kruger National Park, Skukuza, South Africa
| | - Paul D van Helden
- DST/NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research/SAMRC Centre for TB Research/Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Tygerberg, South Africa
| | - Michele A Miller
- DST/NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research/SAMRC Centre for TB Research/Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Tygerberg, South Africa
| | - Sven DC Parsons
- DST/NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research/SAMRC Centre for TB Research/Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Tygerberg, South Africa
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25
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Goosen WJ, van Helden PD, Warren RM, Miller MA, Parsons SDC. The stability of plasma IP-10 enhances its utility for the diagnosis of Mycobacterium bovis infection in African buffaloes (Syncerus caffer). Vet Immunol Immunopathol 2016; 173:17-20. [PMID: 27090621 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetimm.2016.03.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2016] [Revised: 03/22/2016] [Accepted: 03/24/2016] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
The measurement of interferon gamma-induced protein 10 (IP-10) in antigen-stimulated whole blood is a sensitive biomarker of Mycobacterium bovis infection in African buffaloes (Syncerus caffer). However, this species often occurs in remote locations and diagnostic samples must be transported to centralised laboratories for processing. In humans, plasma IP-10 is highly stable and this feature contributes to its diagnostic utility; for this reason we aimed to characterize the stability of this molecule in buffaloes. Blood from M. bovis-infected and -uninfected animals was incubated with pathogen-specific peptides, saline and phytohaemagglutinin, respectively. Plasma fractions were harvested and aliquots of selected samples were: (i) stored at different temperatures for various times; (ii) heat treated before storage at RT, and (iii) stored on Protein Saver Cards (PSCs) at RT for either 2 or 8 weeks before measurement of IP-10. Incubation of plasma at 65°C for 20 min caused no loss of IP-10 and this protein could be quantified in plasma stored on PSCs for 2 and 8 weeks. Moreover, for all storage conditions, IP-10 retained its excellent diagnostic characteristics. These features of IP-10 might allow for the heat inactivation of potentially infectious plasma which would facilitate the safe and simple transport of samples.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wynand J Goosen
- DST/NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research/SAMRC Centre for Tuberculosis Research/Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, South Africa
| | - Paul D van Helden
- DST/NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research/SAMRC Centre for Tuberculosis Research/Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, South Africa
| | - Robin M Warren
- DST/NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research/SAMRC Centre for Tuberculosis Research/Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, South Africa
| | - Michele A Miller
- DST/NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research/SAMRC Centre for Tuberculosis Research/Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, South Africa
| | - Sven D C Parsons
- DST/NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research/SAMRC Centre for Tuberculosis Research/Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, South Africa.
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Olivier TT, Viljoen IM, Hofmeyr J, Hausler GA, Goosen WJ, Tordiffe ASW, Buss P, Loxton AG, Warren RM, Miller MA, van Helden PD, Parsons SDC. Development of a Gene Expression Assay for the Diagnosis ofMycobacterium bovisInfection in African Lions (Panthera leo). Transbound Emerg Dis 2015; 64:774-781. [DOI: 10.1111/tbed.12436] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2015] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- T. T. Olivier
- DST-NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research/SAMRC Centre for TB Research/Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics; Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences; Stellenbosch University; Tygerberg South Africa
| | - I. M. Viljoen
- DST-NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research/SAMRC Centre for TB Research/Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics; Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences; Stellenbosch University; Tygerberg South Africa
| | - J. Hofmeyr
- Veterinary Wildlife Services; Kruger National Park; Skukuza South Africa
| | - G. A. Hausler
- DST-NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research/SAMRC Centre for TB Research/Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics; Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences; Stellenbosch University; Tygerberg South Africa
| | - W. J. Goosen
- DST-NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research/SAMRC Centre for TB Research/Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics; Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences; Stellenbosch University; Tygerberg South Africa
| | - A. S. W. Tordiffe
- Department of Paraclinical Sciences; Faculty of Veterinary Science; University of Pretoria; Pretoria South Africa
- National Zoological Gardens of South Africa; Pretoria South Africa
| | - P. Buss
- Veterinary Wildlife Services; Kruger National Park; Skukuza South Africa
| | - A. G. Loxton
- DST-NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research/SAMRC Centre for TB Research/Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics; Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences; Stellenbosch University; Tygerberg South Africa
| | - R. M. Warren
- DST-NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research/SAMRC Centre for TB Research/Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics; Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences; Stellenbosch University; Tygerberg South Africa
| | - M. A. Miller
- DST-NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research/SAMRC Centre for TB Research/Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics; Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences; Stellenbosch University; Tygerberg South Africa
| | - P. D. van Helden
- DST-NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research/SAMRC Centre for TB Research/Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics; Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences; Stellenbosch University; Tygerberg South Africa
| | - S. D. C. Parsons
- DST-NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research/SAMRC Centre for TB Research/Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics; Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences; Stellenbosch University; Tygerberg South Africa
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IP-10 Is a Sensitive Biomarker of Antigen Recognition in Whole-Blood Stimulation Assays Used for the Diagnosis of Mycobacterium bovis Infection in African Buffaloes (Syncerus caffer). CLINICAL AND VACCINE IMMUNOLOGY : CVI 2015; 22:974-8. [PMID: 26108287 DOI: 10.1128/cvi.00324-15] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2015] [Accepted: 06/18/2015] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
African buffaloes (Syncerus caffer) are maintenance hosts of Mycobacterium bovis, the causative agent of bovine tuberculosis. They act as reservoirs of this infection for a wide range of wildlife and domestic species, and the detection of infected animals is important to control the geographic spread and transmission of the disease. Interferon gamma (IFN-γ) release assays (IGRAs) utilizing pathogen-derived peptide antigens are highly specific tests of M. bovis infection; however, the diagnostic sensitivities of these assays are suboptimal. We evaluated the diagnostic utility of measuring antigen-dependent interferon gamma-induced protein 10 (IP-10) release as an alternative to measuring IFN-γ levels. M. bovis-exposed buffaloes were tested using the Bovigam PC-EC and Bovigam PC-HP assays and a modified QuantiFERON TB-Gold (mQFT) assay. IP-10 was measured in the harvested plasma and was produced in significantly greater abundance in response to M. bovis antigens in Bovigam-positive than in Bovigam-negative animals. For each assay, using the Bovigam results as a reference, receiver operating characteristic curve analysis was done to determine diagnostically relevant cutoff values for IP-10. Thereafter, mQFT test results derived from measurement of IP-10 and IFN-γ were compared and a larger number of Bovigam-positive animals were detected using IP-10 as a diagnostic marker. Moreover, using IP-10, agreement between the mQFT assay and the Bovigam assays was increased, while the excellent agreement between the Bovigam assays was retained. We conclude that IP-10 is a sensitive marker of antigen recognition and that measurement of this cytokine in antigen-stimulated whole blood might increase the sensitivity of conventional IGRAs in African buffaloes.
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Goosen WJ, Cooper D, Warren RM, Miller MA, van Helden PD, Parsons SDC. The evaluation of candidate biomarkers of cell-mediated immunity for the diagnosis of Mycobacterium bovis infection in African buffaloes (Syncerus caffer). Vet Immunol Immunopathol 2014; 162:198-202. [PMID: 25464825 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetimm.2014.10.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2014] [Revised: 10/20/2014] [Accepted: 10/21/2014] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
We evaluated commercially available bovine enzyme linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA) and a human IP-10 ELISA to measure IP-10, MIG, MCP-1, MCP-2, MCP-3 and IL1-RA in buffalo plasma in order to identify sensitive markers of the immune response to Mycobacterium bovis-specific peptides. Additionally, we found that all coding mRNA sequences of these cytokines showed very high homology with their homologues in domestic cattle (97-99%) as did the derived amino acid sequences (97-99%). This high sequence homology between cattle and buffaloes supports the use of bovine ELISAs for the detection these cytokines in buffaloes. MCP-1 concentration showed a positive correlation with that of IFN-γ (p=0.0077) and appears to occur in far greater abundance in buffaloes when compared to humans. Using a bovine IP-10 ELISA, levels of this cytokine were found to be significantly increased in antigen-stimulated blood samples from M. bovis test positive buffaloes (p<0.0001) and IP-10 was detected in far greater abundance than IFN-γ. Measurement of IP-10 with this ELISA may prove to be a sensitive marker of M. bovis infection in African buffaloes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wynand J Goosen
- DST/NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical TB Research/MRC Centre for Tuberculosis Research/Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, PO Box 19063, Tygerberg 7505, South Africa
| | - David Cooper
- Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife, PO Box 25, Mtubatuba 3935, South Africa
| | - Robin M Warren
- DST/NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical TB Research/MRC Centre for Tuberculosis Research/Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, PO Box 19063, Tygerberg 7505, South Africa
| | - Michele A Miller
- DST/NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical TB Research/MRC Centre for Tuberculosis Research/Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, PO Box 19063, Tygerberg 7505, South Africa
| | - Paul D van Helden
- DST/NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical TB Research/MRC Centre for Tuberculosis Research/Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, PO Box 19063, Tygerberg 7505, South Africa
| | - Sven D C Parsons
- DST/NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical TB Research/MRC Centre for Tuberculosis Research/Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, PO Box 19063, Tygerberg 7505, South Africa.
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Goosen WJ, Miller MA, Chegou NN, Cooper D, Warren RM, van Helden PD, Parsons SDC. Agreement between assays of cell-mediated immunity utilizing Mycobacterium bovis-specific antigens for the diagnosis of tuberculosis in African buffaloes (Syncerus caffer). Vet Immunol Immunopathol 2014; 160:133-8. [PMID: 24794136 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetimm.2014.03.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2014] [Revised: 03/25/2014] [Accepted: 03/27/2014] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
We assessed the use of Mycobacterium bovis-specific peptides for the diagnosis of tuberculosis in African buffaloes (Syncerus caffer) by evaluating the agreement between the single intradermal comparative tuberculin test (SICTT), the Bovigam(®) EC (BEC) assay, the Bovigam(®) HP (BHP) assay and two assays utilizing the QuantiFERON(®) TB-Gold (in tube) system employing 20 h (mQFT20 assay) and 30 h (mQFT30 assay) whole blood incubation periods. Of 84 buffaloes, 45% were SICTT-positive, 48% were BEC-positive, 50% were BHP-positive, 37% were mQFT20-positive and 43% were mQFT30-positive. Agreement between the BEC and BHP Bovigam(®) assays was high (κ=0.86, 95% CI 0.75-0.97) and these detected the most test-positive animals suggesting that they were the most sensitive assays. Interferon-gamma release was significantly greater in buffaloes that were test-positive for all tests than in animals with discordant but positive Bovigam(®) results. Agreement between the mQFT assays was equally high (κ=0.88, 95% CI 0.77-0.98); however, all buffaloes with discordant mQFT results (n=6) were mQFT30-positive/mQFT20-negative, including three confirmed M. bovis-infected animals, suggesting that the mQFT30 assay is the more sensitive of the two. Agreements between the two Bovigam(®) and two mQFT assays were moderate, suggesting that in its current format the mQFT assay is less sensitive than either the BEC or the BHP assays.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wynand J Goosen
- DST/NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical TB Research/MRC Centre for Molecular and Cellular Biology/Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, P.O. Box 19063, Tygerberg 7505, South Africa
| | - Michele A Miller
- DST/NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical TB Research/MRC Centre for Molecular and Cellular Biology/Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, P.O. Box 19063, Tygerberg 7505, South Africa
| | - Novel N Chegou
- DST/NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical TB Research/MRC Centre for Molecular and Cellular Biology/Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, P.O. Box 19063, Tygerberg 7505, South Africa
| | - David Cooper
- Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife, P.O. Box 25, Mtubatuba 3935, South Africa
| | - Robin M Warren
- DST/NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical TB Research/MRC Centre for Molecular and Cellular Biology/Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, P.O. Box 19063, Tygerberg 7505, South Africa
| | - Paul D van Helden
- DST/NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical TB Research/MRC Centre for Molecular and Cellular Biology/Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, P.O. Box 19063, Tygerberg 7505, South Africa
| | - Sven D C Parsons
- DST/NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical TB Research/MRC Centre for Molecular and Cellular Biology/Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, P.O. Box 19063, Tygerberg 7505, South Africa.
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van Helden PD, Hoal EG. A new TB vaccine: Fact or fiction? Comp Immunol Microbiol Infect Dis 2013; 36:287-94. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cimid.2012.07.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2012] [Revised: 06/29/2012] [Accepted: 07/27/2012] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
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Maas M, Michel AL, Rutten VPMG. Facts and dilemmas in diagnosis of tuberculosis in wildlife. Comp Immunol Microbiol Infect Dis 2012; 36:269-85. [PMID: 23218541 DOI: 10.1016/j.cimid.2012.10.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2012] [Revised: 10/29/2012] [Accepted: 10/31/2012] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Mycobacterium bovis, causing bovine tuberculosis (BTB), has been recognized as a global threat at the wildlife-livestock-human interface, a clear "One Health" issue. Several wildlife species have been identified as maintenance hosts. Spillover of infection from these species to livestock or other wildlife species may have economic and conservation implications and infection of humans causes public health concerns, especially in developing countries. Most BTB management strategies rely on BTB testing, which can be performed for a range of purposes, from disease surveillance to diagnosing individual infected animals. New diagnostic assays are being developed for selected wildlife species. This review investigates the most frequent objectives and associated requirements for testing wildlife for tuberculosis at the level of individual animals as well as small and large populations. By aligning those with the available (immunological) ante mortem diagnostic assays, the practical challenges and limitations wildlife managers and researchers are currently faced with are highlighted.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Maas
- Division of Epidemiology, Department of Farm Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Yalelaan 7, Utrecht, The Netherlands
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Parsons SDC, Menezes AM, Cooper D, Walzl G, Warren RM, van Helden PD. Development of a diagnostic gene expression assay for tuberculosis and its use under field conditions in African buffaloes (Syncerus caffer). Vet Immunol Immunopathol 2012; 148:337-42. [PMID: 22683147 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetimm.2012.04.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2012] [Revised: 04/25/2012] [Accepted: 04/29/2012] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
The development of diagnostic tests for tuberculosis (TB) in exotic species is constrained by host biology and the limited availability of suitable assay reagents. As such, we evaluated a gene expression assay (GEA) which is easily modified for novel species and allows for initial sample processing under field conditions. African buffaloes (Syncerus caffer) were categorized using the single comparative intradermal tuberculin test, and blood from test-positive and test-negative animals was incubated for 20 h in "Nil" tubes (containing saline) and "TB Antigen" tubes (containing Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex (MTC)-specific antigens) of a commercial human TB test, the QuantiFERON(®)-TB Gold (In-Tube) (QFT) assay. Blood samples were then stabilized in RNAlater(®) and transported to the laboratory for RNA extraction. A Custom TaqMan GEA was used to calculate the relative abundance of interferon-gamma (IFN-γ) mRNA in the TB Antigen tube compared to that in the Nil tube as a marker of immune activation in response to MTC antigen recognition. The GEA results from the two buffalo groups were compared and a cutoff value of 2.85 was calculated to differentiate between animals from these groups with a sensitivity of 80% (95% C.I.: 56-94%) and a specificity of 95% (95% C.I.: 75-100%). Further optimization of this assay could provide a highly useful tool for the diagnosis of MTC infection in exotic species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sven D C Parsons
- DST/NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical TB Research/MRC Centre for Molecular and Cellular Biology/Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Stellenbosch University, P.O. Box 19063, Tygerberg, 7505, South Africa.
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