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Chiummo R, Zschiesche E, Capári B, Farkas R, Chiquet M, Rapti D, Postoli R, Audry A, Leschnik M. Field efficacy of fluralaner (Bravecto ® chewable tablets) for preventing Babesia canis infection transmitted by Dermacentor reticulatus ticks to dogs. Parasit Vectors 2023; 16:252. [PMID: 37501160 PMCID: PMC10373369 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-023-05820-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2023] [Accepted: 05/26/2023] [Indexed: 07/29/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The isoxazoline fluralaner is effective for prevention of Babesia canis transmission from infected Dermacentor reticulatus ticks to dogs for 84 days in a controlled environment. This study was designed to evaluate the effectiveness of fluralaner chewable tablets for sustained prevention of B. canis infection of dogs in endemic areas under natural conditions. METHODS In Europe, privately owned, clinically healthy pet dogs were enrolled and randomized either to receive fluralaner at 25-56 mg/kg (Bravecto® chewable tablets) on days 0 and 84, or to remain untreated during the D. reticulatus season. Blood samples were collected to evaluate B. canis exposure: on days 0 and 21 (exposure before day 0), during the study and at the end of the tick season (dogs suspected of having become infected after day 0). Efficacy was determined by the percentage reduction in B. canis transmission risk based on the difference in B. canis-positive tests in fluralaner-treated dogs compared with untreated dogs. In addition, ticks collected at monthly intervals throughout the study were identified to species level and females tested for B. canis DNA. RESULTS A total of 152 dogs were enrolled in the study, although nine dogs were excluded because they tested positive for B. canis DNA or antibodies within 21 days after enrollment. During the study period, no fluralaner-treated dog became positive for B. canis, resulting in calculated efficacy of 100%. However, babesiosis infection was diagnosed in five untreated control dogs (Fisher's exact test, left-sided, P = 0.0312). Tick analyses revealed that one sample collected in Hungary was infected with B. canis. CONCLUSION Oral administration of Bravecto chewable tablets at the recommended dosage to dogs completely prevented B. canis transmission under field conditions in an endemic area for 12 weeks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rafael Chiummo
- MSD Animal Health Innovation GmbH, Zur Propstei, 55270 Schwabenheim, Germany
| | - Eva Zschiesche
- MSD Animal Health Innovation GmbH, Zur Propstei, 55270 Schwabenheim, Germany
| | | | - Róbert Farkas
- Department of Parasitology and Zoology, University of Veterinary Medicine, Budapest, 1078 Hungary
| | - Mathieu Chiquet
- Artemis Animal Health, 7, rue du Clos Rouillé, Champtocé-sur-Loire, France
| | - Dhimitër Rapti
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Agricultural University of Tirana, Tirana, Albania
| | - Rezart Postoli
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Agricultural University of Tirana, Tirana, Albania
| | - Alain Audry
- Clinique Vétérinaire, 2c Route de Grayan, 33780 Soulac sur Mer, France
| | - Michael Leschnik
- University Clinic for Small Animals, Veterinary University Vienna, Vienna, Austria
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Weingart C, Helm CS, Müller E, Schäfer I, Skrodzki M, von Samson‐Himmelstjerna G, Krücken J, Kohn B. Autochthonous Babesia canis infections in 49 dogs in Germany. Vet Med (Auckl) 2023; 37:140-149. [PMID: 36629833 PMCID: PMC9889677 DOI: 10.1111/jvim.16611] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2022] [Accepted: 12/08/2022] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Vector-borne diseases are of increasing importance in Germany. Since 2015, autochthonous cases have been increasingly documented in Berlin/Brandenburg. OBJECTIVES Describe autochthonous Babesia canis infection in the Berlin/Brandenburg region. ANIMALS Forty-nine dogs with autochthonous B. canis infection. METHODS Evaluation of history, clinical signs, laboratory abnormalities, treatment, and outcome. RESULTS Dogs were presented between March and August (9) and September and January (40) in the years 2015-2021. Historical and clinical findings were lethargy (100%), pale mucous membranes (63%), fever (50%), and pigmenturia (52%). Common clinicopathological findings were thrombocytopenia (100%), anemia (85%), intravascular hemolysis (52%), pancytopenia (41%), and systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS; 37%). Babesia detection was based on blood smear evaluation (n = 40) and PCR targeting the 18S rRNA gene of piroplasms (n = 49). Sequencing indicated 99.47% to 100% identity to B. canis sequences from GenBank. All dogs were treated with imidocarb (2.4-6.3 mg/kg; median, 5 mg/kg); 8 dogs received 1, 35 received 2, and 1 dog each received 3, 4, or 5 injections, respectively. Continued PCR-positive results were detected in 7 dogs after the 1st, in 5 after the 2nd, in 2 after the 3rd, and in 1 28 days after the 4th injection. Four dogs were euthanized and 3 dogs died. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL IMPORTANCE Autochthonous B. canis infections in Berlin/Brandenburg were associated with severe clinicopathological changes, SIRS, and multiorgan involvement. Testing by PCR during and after treatment is advisable to monitor treatment success. Screening of blood donors in high-risk areas and year-round tick protection is strongly recommended.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christiane Weingart
- Clinic for Small Animals, Faculty of Veterinary MedicineFreie Universität BerlinBerlinGermany
| | - Christina S. Helm
- Institute for Parasitology and Tropical Veterinary MedicineFreie Universität BerlinBerlinGermany
| | | | | | - Marianne Skrodzki
- Clinic for Small Animals, Faculty of Veterinary MedicineFreie Universität BerlinBerlinGermany
| | | | - Jürgen Krücken
- Institute for Parasitology and Tropical Veterinary MedicineFreie Universität BerlinBerlinGermany
| | - Barbara Kohn
- Clinic for Small Animals, Faculty of Veterinary MedicineFreie Universität BerlinBerlinGermany
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3
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The First Records of Canine Babesiosis in Dogs from Dermacentor reticulatus-Free Zone in Poland. Pathogens 2022; 11:pathogens11111329. [PMID: 36422581 PMCID: PMC9699086 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens11111329] [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: 10/11/2022] [Revised: 11/07/2022] [Accepted: 11/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Tick-borne microorganisms belong to important etiological agents of many infectious diseases affecting humans and animals. Among them, there are haemoprotozoans of the Babesia genus, which infect erythrocytes of a host and may cause many clinical symptoms. Canine babesiosis is an emerging tick-borne disease in Southern and Central Europe. In this study, we report two cases of symptomatic canine babesiosis caused by Babesia canis in domestic dogs from the Silesian Voivodeship, Poland, as well as the presence of Dermacentor reticulatus ticks detected on one of the Babesia-infected dogs (D. reticulatus-free zone). The molecular analysis confirmed the presence of Babesia canis in the dogs’ blood, and the sequencing analysis showed that the obtained sequence is 100% identical to the sequence of Babesia canis isolate 3469 (sequence ID: KX712122.1). Our findings should raise awareness of B. canis infection among dog owners and veterinarians in the region where B. canis was not previously reported in residential, non-traveling dogs, as well as ensuring that adequate diagnostic methods are available.
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Genetic Diversity of Babesia canis Strains in Dogs in Lithuania. Microorganisms 2022; 10:microorganisms10071446. [PMID: 35889165 PMCID: PMC9351669 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms10071446] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2022] [Revised: 07/15/2022] [Accepted: 07/16/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Canine babesiosis is an emerging and rapidly expanding tick-borne disease in central and northeast Europe. In the last two decades, the endemic area of Babesia canis has expanded from central Europe to the Baltic region. This study aimed to investigate the genetic diversity of B. canis strains isolated from naturally infected dogs in different regions of Lithuania using PCR-RFLP and sequence analyses based on a partial region of 18S rRNA and Bc28.1 genes. Blood samples from 149 dogs suspected of having babesiosis were collected in Lithuania during 2016–2017. Based on PCR-RFLP profiles and two nucleotide substitutions observed in 18S rRNA gene sequences, three B. canis genotypes were identified in Lithuania—18S rRNA-A, 18S rRNA-B and 18S rRNA-A/B—with the A/B genotype predominating (83.9%). Based on the obtained PCR-RFLP profiles of the Bc28.1 gene, four B. canis genotypes were identified: Bc28.1-B (53.8%), Bc28.1-34 (20.8%), Bc28.1-A (17.9%), and Bc28.1-34/A or B (7.5%). Sequence analysis of the partial Bc28.1 gene revealed eighteen polymorphic sites and thirteen sequence variants among the Lithuanian samples. The B. canis genotypes obtained were detected with varying prevalences in different regions of Lithuania.
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Helm CS, Weingart C, Ramünke S, Schäfer I, Müller E, von Samson-Himmelstjerna G, Kohn B, Krücken J. High genetic diversity of Babesia canis (Piana & Galli-Valerio, 1895) in a recent local outbreak in Berlin/ Brandenburg, Germany. Transbound Emerg Dis 2022; 69:e3336-e3345. [PMID: 35689449 DOI: 10.1111/tbed.14617] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2021] [Revised: 05/21/2022] [Accepted: 05/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Canine babesiosis caused by Babesia canis (Piana & Galli-Valerio, 1895) is emerging in new regions in Europe since its vector Dermacentor reticulatus (Fabricius, 1794) is expanding its geographic range. In the Berlin/Brandenburg area in northeast Germany, D. reticulatus is highly abundant but in the past only one autochthonous B. canis infection was reported. Since 2015, autochthonous cases were occasionally diagnosed but numbers increased since autumn 2019. The aim of the study was to genotype autochthonous canine Babesia spp. infections from Berlin/Brandenburg. Between 04/2015 and 01/2022, 46 dogs with acute babesiosis were presented to the small animal clinic (one dog was infected twice resulting in 47 samples). There were 32 dogs that had never left Berlin/Brandenburg and 14 others that had not left the region in the 6 weeks prior to disease onset. PCRs targeting the 18S rRNA and the Bc28.1 merozoite surface antigen were positive in 47 and 42 samples, respectively. Sequencing of cloned PCR products identified all samples as B. canis with 17 18S rRNA and 12 Bc28.1 haplotypes. Based on network analysis for 18S rRNA sequences and a previously described polymorphic dinucleotide, samples were assigned to two distinct clusters. One contained 31 and the other 16 samples. Using network analysis, the Bc28.1 haplotypes could also be separated into two clusters differing by at least five polymorphisms. Analyses of sequences from multiple clones indicated the presence of up to five 18S rRNA and eight Bc28.1 haplotypes and thus high parasite variability in an individual host. The genetic diversity could suggest that the parasites in the region have multiple origins, but diversity in individual dogs and dog populations from endemic regions is unknown. The suitability of both markers for genotyping is questionable due to potential intragenomic diversity for the rRNA and high intergenomic variability for the Bc28.1 marker.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christina S Helm
- Institute for Parasitology and Tropical Veterinary Medicine, Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | | | - Sabrina Ramünke
- Institute for Parasitology and Tropical Veterinary Medicine, Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | | | | | | | - Barbara Kohn
- Small Animal Clinic, Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Jürgen Krücken
- Institute for Parasitology and Tropical Veterinary Medicine, Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany
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Seibert S, Rohrberg A, Stockinger A, Schaalo S, März I. [Occurrence of canine babesiosis in dogs in the Rhine-Main area of Hesse, Germany - a case study of 81 dogs]. TIERARZTLICHE PRAXIS. AUSGABE K, KLEINTIERE/HEIMTIERE 2022; 50:162-172. [PMID: 35790164 DOI: 10.1055/a-1704-6604] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Canine babesiosis, an infectious disease transmitted by Dermacentor reticulatus, is exhibiting growing importance in Germany. The aim of this study was to display the increased incidence of canine babesiosis in the Rhine-Main area in Hesse, with special focus on the accumulation in the district of Groß-Gerau. MATERIAL AND METHODS The retrospective study included dogs presented to the veterinary hospital between October 2018 and December 2020 and diagnosed with canine babesiosis on the basis of a positive Babesia spp.-PCR. RESULTS A total of 697 dogs were tested by Babesia spp.-PCR during this time period. Of these, 81 (12 %) were positive.Sequencing was performed in 14 of the 81 dogs (17 %) (B. canis n = 13, B, vulpes n = 1). A simultaneous anaplasmosis infection was detected in 2 dogs. Strikingly, babesiosis cases occurred throughout the year with accumulations in March/April as well as in October.Evaluation of a complete blood cell count revealed pancytopenia in 44 of the 81 animals (54 %). Anemia was present in 66 (82 %), thrombocytopenia in 76 of the 81 patients (94 %). Only 2 of the 81 positive cases showed no hematological changes. Hyperbilirubinemia was found in 66 of 73 measured bilirubin levels (90 %).All animals were treated with two injections of imidocarb-diproprionate (Carbesia®) in 14-day intervals. Follow-up PCR was performed in 37 of the 81 patients (46 %). In the majority of cases (92 %), successful therapy was confirmed by a negative Babesia-PCR. A total of 6 of the 81 patients (7 %) were euthanized during the treatment period. The reasons for euthanasia were progressive renal disease, high-grade intravascular hemolysis necessitating multiple blood transfusions, and development of splenic and renal abscesses. CONCLUSION In dogs with clinical signs such as apathy, pyrexia and hemoglobinuria, as well as hematologic abnormalities comprising anemia, thrombocytopenia as well as pancytopenia, babesiosis needs to be included in the list of differential diagnoses. Testing should be initiated accordingly regardless of the season, however especially in spring and autumn.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Imke März
- Tierklinik Hofheim, Hofheim am Taunus
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7
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Strobl A, Pantchev N, Martin L, Guija-De-Arespacochaga A, Hinney B, Fuehrer HP, Leschnik M. Co-infection with Babesia canis and Babesia gibsoni in a dog. Acta Vet Hung 2021; 69:347-353. [PMID: 34773454 DOI: 10.1556/004.2021.00048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2021] [Accepted: 10/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
A four-year-old intact male Boxer, that had a history of travelling to Serbia, was referred for lethargy and anaemia. Shortly before the dog was referred, it was diagnosed twice with an infection with Babesia canis and was treated with imidocarb both times. A blood smear evaluation was indicative of the presence of intraerythrocytic piroplasms. After receiving inconclusive results regarding the type of piroplasm, the dog was diagnosed with simultaneous infections with B. canis and Babesia gibsoni via real-time polymerase chain reaction (rt-PCR) testing. The dog was treated with imidocarb, atovaquone and azithromycin, and in a follow-up examination, the PCR results were negative for B. canis and B. gibsoni. Several weeks later, the dog was presented again, and a PCR was positive for B. gibsoni. After atovaquone and azithromycin failed to eliminate the parasites, a therapy attempt using metronidazole, clindamycin and doxycycline was initiated. Six months after diagnosis, the treatment appeared successful in eliminating B. gibsoni. This case report describes the clinical findings of the co-infection and the initiated diagnostic and therapeutic approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anja Strobl
- 1 Clinical Unit of Internal Medicine Small Animals, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Veterinärplatz 1, 1210 Vienna, Austria
| | | | - Lukas Martin
- 1 Clinical Unit of Internal Medicine Small Animals, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Veterinärplatz 1, 1210 Vienna, Austria
| | | | - Barbara Hinney
- 4 Institute of Parasitology, Department of Pathobiology, Veterinary University Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Hans-Peter Fuehrer
- 4 Institute of Parasitology, Department of Pathobiology, Veterinary University Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Michael Leschnik
- 1 Clinical Unit of Internal Medicine Small Animals, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Veterinärplatz 1, 1210 Vienna, Austria
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Kivrane A, Namina A, Seleznova M, Akopjana S, Capligina V, Ranka R. Development of a real-time PCR method for rapid diagnosis of canine babesiosis and anaplasmosis. Parasit Vectors 2021; 14:266. [PMID: 34016173 PMCID: PMC8139040 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-021-04756-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2020] [Accepted: 04/29/2021] [Indexed: 04/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Canine babesiosis and anaplasmosis, caused by Babesia canis and Anaplasma phagocytophilum, respectively, are significant tick-borne diseases in Baltic countries. Both diseases can be diagnosed on the basis of clinicopathological findings, by direct pathogen detection in blood smears or by indirect pathogen detection; however, because of high selectivity and specificity, molecular methods may be advantageous. The goal of this study was to develop a duplex real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) method for the detection of B. canis and A. phagocytophilum in canine clinical samples. Methods Sequence-based polymorphism analysis of genes encoding B. canis-specific merozoite surface protein Bc28.1 (Bc28.1) and A. phagocytophilum malate dehydrogenase (mdh) was performed on pathogen isolates present in Latvian domestic dogs. The obtained results were used to design a species-specific duplex RT-PCR assay. Results The presence of three B. canis Bc28.1 gene sequence types was revealed in canine samples with a nonuniform geographical distribution, and two types of A. phagocytophilum mdh genes were detected. The novel duplex RT-PCR assay provided correct classification of samples positive and negative for B. canis and A. phagocytophilum. The analytical sensitivity of this assay was ten gene copies/ reaction for both pathogens. Conclusions A novel duplex RT-PCR molecular method was developed for the detection of B. canis and A. phagocytophilum in canine clinical samples. Sequence variability of Bc28.1 and mdh genes indicated the genetic variability of B. canis and A. phagocytophilum isolates occurring in Latvian domestic dogs. Graphic Abstract ![]()
Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13071-021-04756-9.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agnija Kivrane
- Latvian Biomedical Research and Study Centre, Ratsupites Street 1, Riga, Latvia
| | - Agne Namina
- Latvian Biomedical Research and Study Centre, Ratsupites Street 1, Riga, Latvia
| | - Maija Seleznova
- Latvian Biomedical Research and Study Centre, Ratsupites Street 1, Riga, Latvia
| | - Sarmite Akopjana
- Latvian Biomedical Research and Study Centre, Ratsupites Street 1, Riga, Latvia
| | - Valentina Capligina
- Latvian Biomedical Research and Study Centre, Ratsupites Street 1, Riga, Latvia
| | - Renate Ranka
- Latvian Biomedical Research and Study Centre, Ratsupites Street 1, Riga, Latvia.
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Strobl A, Künzel F, Tichy A, Leschnik M. Complications and risk factors regarding the outcomes of canine babesiosis in Central Europe - A retrospective analysis of 240 cases. Acta Vet Hung 2020; 68:160-168. [PMID: 32877354 DOI: 10.1556/004.2020.00031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2019] [Accepted: 05/06/2020] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to investigate retrospectively the prevalence of the complicated and uncomplicated forms of babesiosis and to evaluate various laboratory and clinical parameters of dogs infected with Babesia canis in order to assess their prognostic value regarding the outcomes of the disease. Medical records, complete blood count and serum biochemical analysis from the animal hospital information system of 240 dogs were reviewed and evaluated retrospectively. Binary logistic regression analysis was used to ascertain correlations between alterations in the obtained parameters and survival probability. The results showed that creatinine levels of more than 5 mg/dL and phosphate levels of more than 3 mmol/L have a highly significant link to death (P ≤ 0.001). Albumin levels of <2.2 g/dL (P = 0.003) and a rectal body temperature below 38 °C (P ≤ 0.001) may also serve as prognostic markers for the severity of the disease. If renal involvement was present, 33.9% of the dogs died, while 40.0% of the dogs died in the presence of pancreatitis. The parameters creatinine, phosphate, albumin and rectal temperature serve as reliable predictive markers of an increased risk of death in the case of an infection with B. canis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anja Strobl
- 1Department for Companion Animals, Small Animal Clinic, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Veterinärplatz 1, 1210, Vienna, Austria
| | - Frank Künzel
- 1Department for Companion Animals, Small Animal Clinic, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Veterinärplatz 1, 1210, Vienna, Austria
| | - Alexander Tichy
- 2Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Michael Leschnik
- 1Department for Companion Animals, Small Animal Clinic, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Veterinärplatz 1, 1210, Vienna, Austria
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Zhan X, Yu L, An X, Liu Q, Li M, Nie Z, Zhao Y, Wang S, Ao Y, Tian Y, He L, Zhao J. Evaluation of Babesia gibsoni GPI-anchored Protein 47 (BgGPI47-WH) as a Potential Diagnostic Antigen by Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay. Front Vet Sci 2019; 6:333. [PMID: 31681802 PMCID: PMC6797833 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2019.00333] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2019] [Accepted: 09/16/2019] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Babesia gibsoni is one of the important pathogens causing severe incurable canine babesiosis, suggesting the necessity to develop a sensitive, specific, and highly automated diagnostic method for clinical application. Surface proteins are ideal candidates for diagnostic targets because they are the primary targets for host immune responses during host-parasite interactions. Glycosylphosphatidylinositol (GPI)-anchored proteins are abundant on the surface of parasites and play an important role in parasite diagnosis. In this study, a GPI-anchored protein named BgGPI47-WH was obtained and mouse anti-rBgGPI47-WH polyclonal antibody was produced by immunizing mice with the purified protein and Freund's adjuvant. Western blot was used to identify the native form and immunogenicity of BgGPI47-WH. An ELISA method was established by using recombinant BgGPI47-WH protein to evaluate its potential as a diagnostic antigen and the established method exhibited high specificity. The antibody response was evaluated by using the B. gibsoni-infected sera collected from different experimental dogs and the established ELISA could recognize antibodies at day 6 until day 101 post infection, indicating the potential use of BgGPI47-WH for early stage diagnosis. The specificity of the established ELISA was further evaluated by using 147 clinical samples collected from animal hospitals and 17.0% (25/147) of the samples were tested positive, with an overall proportion agreement of 86.39% between the results from BgGPI47-WH and BgSA1. Our results indicated that BgGPI47-WH could be used as a reliable diagnostic antigen and this study has proposed a practical method for early diagnosis of B. gibsoni.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xueyan Zhan
- State Key Laboratory of Agricultural Microbiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China
| | - Long Yu
- State Key Laboratory of Agricultural Microbiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China
| | - Xiaomeng An
- State Key Laboratory of Agricultural Microbiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China
| | - Qin Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Agricultural Microbiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China
| | - Muxiao Li
- State Key Laboratory of Agricultural Microbiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China
| | - Zheng Nie
- State Key Laboratory of Agricultural Microbiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China
| | - Yangnan Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Agricultural Microbiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China.,Key Laboratory of Preventive Veterinary Medicine in Hubei Province, Wuhan, China
| | - Sen Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Agricultural Microbiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China
| | - Yangsiqi Ao
- State Key Laboratory of Agricultural Microbiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China
| | - Yu Tian
- State Key Laboratory of Agricultural Microbiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China
| | - Lan He
- State Key Laboratory of Agricultural Microbiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China.,Key Laboratory of Preventive Veterinary Medicine in Hubei Province, Wuhan, China
| | - Junlong Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Agricultural Microbiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China.,Key Laboratory of Preventive Veterinary Medicine in Hubei Province, Wuhan, China.,Key Laboratory of Development of Veterinary Diagnostic Products, Ministry of Agriculture of the People's Republic of China, Wuhan, China
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Janjić F, Sarvan D, Tomanović S, Ćuk J, Krstić V, Radonjić V, Kovačević Filipović M, Ajtić J. A short-term and long-term relationship between occurrence of acute canine babesiosis and meteorological parameters in Belgrade, Serbia. Ticks Tick Borne Dis 2019; 10:101273. [PMID: 31445876 DOI: 10.1016/j.ttbdis.2019.101273] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2019] [Revised: 06/11/2019] [Accepted: 08/15/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Belgrade, the capital of the Republic of Serbia, is an endemic location for canine babesiosis caused by Babesia canis. This tick-borne disease occurs seasonally in regions with moderate continental climate. However, recent clinical data show that: 1) some cases of canine babesiosis have been recorded during the winter, and 2) canine babesiosis is spreading to the northern parts of Europe with a colder climate, which is a region previously free of this disease. Our study investigates the occurrence of canine babesiosis in different seasons over 2013-2016, and explores a short-term link between meteorological parameters and number of diagnosed cases of canine babesiosis in Belgrade. It also looks into possible long-term correlations that span one year before the onset of the disease. Based on 872 recorded cases over four years, our results show a bimodal seasonal distribution of canine babesiosis, with a pronounced peak in the spring, and a less conspicuous one in the autumn. Throughout the year, even over the coldest and warmest periods, there is a broad range of temperatures and relative humidities when the disease is recorded. Over one year prior to the spring and autumn onset of the disease, we found a noticeable impact of temperature and relative humidity, and to a lesser extent, of atmospheric pressure and cloud cover, on the number of diagnosed cases. These findings imply short-term and long-term relationships between occurrence of acute canine babesiosis and certain meteorological parameters, and they open further questions that need to be investigated in order to understand the epidemiology of this disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Filip Janjić
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Belgrade, Bulevar oslobođenja 18, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia.
| | - Darko Sarvan
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Belgrade, Bulevar oslobođenja 18, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia.
| | - Snežana Tomanović
- Institute for Medical Research, University of Belgrade, Bulevar oslobođenja 18, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia.
| | - Jelena Ćuk
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Belgrade, Bulevar oslobođenja 18, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia.
| | - Vanja Krstić
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Belgrade, Bulevar oslobođenja 18, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia.
| | - Vladimir Radonjić
- Private Veterinary Practice "Petrovac", Borčanskih žrtava 1914, 92, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia.
| | | | - Jelena Ajtić
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Belgrade, Bulevar oslobođenja 18, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia.
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Radzijevskaja J, Mardosaitė-Busaitienė D, Aleksandravičienė A, Paulauskas A. Investigation of Babesia spp. in sympatric populations of Dermacentor reticulatus and Ixodes ricinus ticks in Lithuania and Latvia. Ticks Tick Borne Dis 2017; 9:270-274. [PMID: 28969995 DOI: 10.1016/j.ttbdis.2017.09.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2017] [Revised: 08/24/2017] [Accepted: 09/10/2017] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
The objectives of the present study were to investigate the presence of the Babesia parasites in Dermacentor reticulatus ticks along its current distribution range in Lithuania and Latvia, and Ixodes ricinus in Lithuania, to characterize the detected Babesia spp. using partial sequencing of 18S rRNR gene, and to determine the prevalence of the Babesia pathogens in ticks from different locations of Lithuania and Latvia. From 2013 to 2015, four D. reticulatus nymphs and 2255 questing adults were collected from 40 locations in Lithuania, and 181 questing adult D. reticulatus specimens from 11 locations in Latvia. In Lithuania, 16 questing I. ricinus nymphs and 354 questing adults were collected from 12 locations with the sympatric existence of D. reticulatus and I. ricinus. In Lithuania, Babesia spp. were detected in 1.2% (26/2259) of D. reticulatus and in 9.5% (35/370) of I. ricinus ticks. The overall prevalence of Babesia in D. reticulatus ticks from Latvia was 2.8% (5/181). Sequence analysis of partial 18S rRNA gene of positive samples indicated the presence of B. canis and B. venatorum in D. reticulatus ticks, whereas B. microti and B. venatorum were detected in I. ricinus ticks. Our study is the first investigation on the prevalence and molecular characterization of zoonotic B. canis, B. venatorum, and B. microti in ixodid ticks in Lithuania, and of B. canis in D. reticulatus ticks in Latvia. It is also the first report of B. venatorum in D. reticulatus ticks.
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Eichenberger RM, Ramakrishnan C, Russo G, Deplazes P, Hehl AB. Genome-wide analysis of gene expression and protein secretion of Babesia canis during virulent infection identifies potential pathogenicity factors. Sci Rep 2017; 7:3357. [PMID: 28611446 PMCID: PMC5469757 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-03445-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2017] [Accepted: 04/27/2017] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Infections of dogs with virulent strains of Babesia canis are characterized by rapid onset and high mortality, comparable to complicated human malaria. As in other apicomplexan parasites, most Babesia virulence factors responsible for survival and pathogenicity are secreted to the host cell surface and beyond where they remodel and biochemically modify the infected cell interacting with host proteins in a very specific manner. Here, we investigated factors secreted by B. canis during acute infections in dogs and report on in silico predictions and experimental analysis of the parasite’s exportome. As a backdrop, we generated a fully annotated B. canis genome sequence of a virulent Hungarian field isolate (strain BcH-CHIPZ) underpinned by extensive genome-wide RNA-seq analysis. We find evidence for conserved factors in apicomplexan hemoparasites involved in immune-evasion (e.g. VESA-protein family), proteins secreted across the iRBC membrane into the host bloodstream (e.g. SA- and Bc28 protein families), potential moonlighting proteins (e.g. profilin and histones), and uncharacterized antigens present during acute crisis in dogs. The combined data provides a first predicted and partially validated set of potential virulence factors exported during fatal infections, which can be exploited for urgently needed innovative intervention strategies aimed at facilitating diagnosis and management of canine babesiosis.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Peter Deplazes
- Institute of Parasitology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Adrian B Hehl
- Institute of Parasitology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland.
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14
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Łyp P, Bartnicki M, Staniec M, Winiarczyk S, Adaszek Ł. Occurrence of different strains of Babesia canis in dogs in eastern Poland. J Vet Res 2016. [DOI: 10.1515/jvetres-2016-0063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Introduction: The aim of this study was to carry out a genetic analysis of Babesia canis isolates detected in dogs in eastern Poland and to study the correlation of the protozoa variant with a specific geographical region. Material and Methods: PCR was used to identify strains of B. canis from naturally infected animals (240 dogs from four provinces: Mazowieckie, Lublin, Podlasie, and Podkarpacie) by amplifying and sequencing a fragment of the 18S rRNA gene. Results: Sequencing the PCR products led to the identification of four variants of B. canis. Two previously described protozoa variants (18S rRNA-A and 18S rRNA-B) were observed in all provinces. Additionally, in the Mazowieckie and Lublin provinces a B. canis variant which contributed to the development of acute or atypical babesiosis was observed. The fourth variant of B. canis was detected only in dogs from the Lublin province, and the course of the disease was subclinical in all dogs infected with this variant. Conclusion: These results indicate the appearance of a new fourth B. canis genotype in Poland and confirm that it is still necessary to study the relationships between the genetic structure of protozoa, geographical distribution of the parasites, and clinical course of the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paweł Łyp
- Department of Epizootiology and Infectious Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Life Sciences Lublin, 20-612, Lublin, Poland
| | - Michał Bartnicki
- Department of Epizootiology and Infectious Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Life Sciences Lublin, 20-612, Lublin, Poland
| | - Marta Staniec
- Department of Epizootiology and Infectious Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Life Sciences Lublin, 20-612, Lublin, Poland
| | - Stanisław Winiarczyk
- Department of Epizootiology and Infectious Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Life Sciences Lublin, 20-612, Lublin, Poland
| | - Łukasz Adaszek
- Department of Epizootiology and Infectious Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Life Sciences Lublin, 20-612, Lublin, Poland
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15
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Uneven seasonal distribution of Babesia canis and its two 18S rDNA genotypes in questing Dermacentor reticulatus ticks in urban habitats. Ticks Tick Borne Dis 2016; 7:694-697. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ttbdis.2016.02.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2015] [Revised: 02/13/2016] [Accepted: 02/22/2016] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
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16
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Solano-Gallego L, Sainz Á, Roura X, Estrada-Peña A, Miró G. A review of canine babesiosis: the European perspective. Parasit Vectors 2016; 9:336. [PMID: 27289223 PMCID: PMC4902949 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-016-1596-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 206] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2015] [Accepted: 05/17/2016] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Canine babesiosis is a significant tick-borne disease caused by various species of the protozoan genus Babesia. Although it occurs worldwide, data relating to European infections have now been collected for many years. These data have boosted the publication record and increased our working knowledge of these protozoan parasites. Both the large and small forms of Babesia species (B. canis, B. vogeli, B. gibsoni, and B. microti-like isolates also referred to as "B. vulpes" and "Theileria annae") infect dogs in Europe, and their geographical distribution, transmission, clinical signs, treatment, and prognosis vary widely for each species. The goal of this review is to provide veterinary practitioners with practical guidelines for the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of babesiosis in European dogs. Our hope is that these guidelines will answer the most frequently asked questions posed by veterinary practitioners.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laia Solano-Gallego
- Department of Animal Medicine and Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.
| | - Ángel Sainz
- Department of Animal Medicine and Surgery, Veterinary Clinic Hospital, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Xavier Roura
- Hospital Clínic Veterinari, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Agustín Estrada-Peña
- Department of Animal Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Guadalupe Miró
- Department of Animal Health, Veterinary Clinic Hospital, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
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Földvári G, Široký P, Szekeres S, Majoros G, Sprong H. Dermacentor reticulatus: a vector on the rise. Parasit Vectors 2016; 9:314. [PMID: 27251148 PMCID: PMC4888597 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-016-1599-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 157] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2015] [Accepted: 05/18/2016] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Dermacentor reticulatus is a hard tick species with extraordinary biological features. It has a high reproduction rate, a rapid developmental cycle, and is also able to overcome years of unfavourable conditions. Dermacentor reticulatus can survive under water for several months and is cold-hardy even compared to other tick species. It has a wide host range: over 60 different wild and domesticated hosts are known for the three active developmental stages. Its high adaptiveness gives an edge to this tick species as shown by new data on the emergence and establishment of D. reticulatus populations throughout Europe. The tick has been the research focus of a growing number of scientists, physicians and veterinarians. Within the Web of Science database, more than a fifth of the over 700 items published on this species between 1897 and 2015 appeared in the last three years (2013–2015). Here we attempt to synthesize current knowledge on the systematics, ecology, geographical distribution and recent spread of the species and to highlight the great spectrum of possible veterinary and public health threats it poses. Canine babesiosis caused by Babesia canis is a severe leading canine vector-borne disease in many endemic areas. Although less frequently than Ixodes ricinus, D. reticulatus adults bite humans and transmit several Rickettsia spp., Omsk haemorrhagic fever virus or Tick-borne encephalitis virus. We have not solely collected and reviewed the latest and fundamental scientific papers available in primary databases but also widened our scope to books, theses, conference papers and specialists colleagues’ experience where needed. Besides the dominant literature available in English, we also tried to access scientific literature in German, Russian and eastern European languages as well. We hope to inspire future research projects that are necessary to understand the basic life-cycle and ecology of this vector in order to understand and prevent disease threats. We conclude that although great strides have been made in our knowledge of the eco-epidemiology of this species, several gaps still need to be filled with basic research, targeting possible reservoir and vector roles and the key factors resulting in the observed geographical spread of D. reticulatus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gábor Földvári
- Department of Parasitology and Zoology, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Szent István University, Budapest, Hungary.
| | - Pavel Široký
- Department of Biology and Wildlife Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Hygiene and Ecology, University of Veterinary and Pharmaceutical Sciences Brno, Brno, Czech Republic.,CEITEC-Central European Institute of Technology, University of Veterinary and Pharmaceutical Sciences Brno, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Sándor Szekeres
- Department of Parasitology and Zoology, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Szent István University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Gábor Majoros
- Department of Parasitology and Zoology, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Szent István University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Hein Sprong
- National Institute of Public Health and the Environment, Bilthoven, The Netherlands
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