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Dinon A, Fiorani F, Campero LM, Moore DP, Corva PM. The role of genetic variability of the host on the resistance to Neospora caninum infection in cattle. Anim Genet 2024; 55:304-318. [PMID: 38419150 DOI: 10.1111/age.13410] [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: 11/17/2023] [Revised: 02/15/2024] [Accepted: 02/15/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
Neospora caninum is one of the most frequently diagnosed abortifacient pathogens in cattle. There is abundant genomic information about the parasite itself, but very little is known about the genetic variability of resistance in the most common intermediate host. The aim of this review was to compile all the available information about the genetic variability associated with the resistance to N. caninum both between and within cattle breeds. We systematically searched for published studies that investigated the influence of genetics of the host on the prevalence of N. caninum and risk of abortion. Beyond the potential confounding effects of feeding systems, management and animal density, some lines of evidence suggest that Holstein, the most popular breed for milk production, has a comparatively higher risk of abortion due to infections by N. caninum, whereas some beef breeds from Continental Europe seem to be more resistant. It is still not clear if different genetic mechanisms of resistance are involved in the two known routes of infection: postnatal ingestion of oocysts or transplacental transmission from the infected dam to the fetus. Genomic information associated with susceptibility to infection and risk of abortion in different cattle breeds is still scarce. The information reported here could be useful to identify new research alternatives and to define novel strategies to deal with this major problem of animal production.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anabella Dinon
- Facultad de Ciencias Agrarias, Universidad Nacional de Mar del Plata, Balcarce, Argentina
| | - Franco Fiorani
- Facultad de Ciencias Agrarias, Universidad Nacional de Mar del Plata, Balcarce, Argentina
| | - Lucía María Campero
- Instituto de Innovación para la Producción Agropecuaria y el Desarrollo Sostenible (IPADS Balcarce), Balcarce, Argentina
| | - Dadín Prando Moore
- Facultad de Ciencias Agrarias, Universidad Nacional de Mar del Plata, Balcarce, Argentina
- Instituto de Innovación para la Producción Agropecuaria y el Desarrollo Sostenible (IPADS Balcarce), Balcarce, Argentina
| | - Pablo Marcelo Corva
- Facultad de Ciencias Agrarias, Universidad Nacional de Mar del Plata, Balcarce, Argentina
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Guerriaud M, Poupet C, Lakhrif Z, Kohli E, Moiré N. Are genetically modified protozoa eligible for ATMP status? Concerning the legal categorization of an oncolytic protozoan drug candidate. Gene Ther 2024; 31:295-303. [PMID: 38429432 DOI: 10.1038/s41434-024-00445-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2023] [Revised: 02/05/2024] [Accepted: 02/09/2024] [Indexed: 03/03/2024]
Abstract
Neospora caninum is an obligate intracellular protozoan that affects several animal species. It is not pathogenic for humans, and its ability to infect and lyse a variety of cells and stimulate the immune system makes it an interesting drug candidate in oncology. The intrinsic oncolytic properties of N. caninum have been confirmed in several preclinical models. Moreover, it can be modified to improve its safety and/or efficacy against cancer cells. In this study, we propose the legal categorization of this new biological drug candidate and the impact of modifications, notably the integration of a suicide gene, the deletion of a gene allowing its multiplication in healthy cells, and/or the insertion of a gene coding for a therapeutic protein into its genome. When unmodified, N. caninum can be categorized as a biological medicinal product, whereas modifications aimed at increasing its safety classify it as a Somatic Cell Therapy Medicinal Product, and modifications aiming to increase its efficacy or both safety and efficacy make it as a Gene Therapy Medicinal Product. This categorization is fundamental because it determines the guidelines applicable for preclinical development. These guidelines being numerous and complex, we have focused on the key requirements necessary for the development of the future medicinal product.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mathieu Guerriaud
- Faculty of Health Sciences (Pharmacy), University of Burgundy, 7 bd Jeanne d'Arc, 21079, Dijon, Cedex, France.
- CREDIMI Laboratory EA 7532, 4 bd Gabriel, 21000, Dijon, France.
- Laboratory of Excellence LipSTIC ANR-11-LABX-0021, Dijon, France.
| | - Cyril Poupet
- Université de Tours, INRAE, ISP, 37380, Tours, France
| | - Zineb Lakhrif
- Université de Tours, INRAE, ISP, 37380, Tours, France
| | - Evelyne Kohli
- Faculty of Health Sciences (Pharmacy), University of Burgundy, 7 bd Jeanne d'Arc, 21079, Dijon, Cedex, France
- Laboratory of Excellence LipSTIC ANR-11-LABX-0021, Dijon, France
- UMR INSERM/uB/AGROSUP 1231, Team 3 HSP-Pathies, Labelled Ligue Nationale Contre le Cancer, Dijon, France
| | - Nathalie Moiré
- INRAE, Université de Tours, ISP, 37380, Nouzilly, France
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Udonsom R, Adisakwattana P, Popruk S, Reamtong O, Jirapattharasate C, Thiangtrongjit T, Rerkyusuke S, Chanlun A, Hasan T, Kotepui M, Siri S, Nishikawa Y, Mahittikorn A. Evaluation of Immunodiagnostic Performances of Neospora caninum Peroxiredoxin 2 (NcPrx2), Microneme 4 (NcMIC4), and Surface Antigen 1 (NcSAG1) Recombinant Proteins for Bovine Neosporosis. Animals (Basel) 2024; 14:531. [PMID: 38396498 PMCID: PMC10885977 DOI: 10.3390/ani14040531] [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: 12/25/2023] [Revised: 01/22/2024] [Accepted: 02/03/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Bovine neosporosis is among the main causes of abortion in cattle worldwide, causing serious economic losses in the beef and dairy industries. A highly sensitive and specific diagnostic method for the assessment of the epidemiology of the disease, as well as it surveillance and management, is imperative, due to the absence of an effective treatment or vaccine against neosporosis. In the present study, the immunodiagnostic performance of Neospora caninum peroxiredoxin 2 (NcPrx2), microneme 4 (NcMIC4), and surface antigen 1 (NcSAG1) to detect IgG antibodies against N. caninum in cattle were evaluated and compared with that of the indirect fluorescent antibody test (IFAT). The results revealed that NcSAG1 had the highest sensitivity and specificity, with values of 88.4% and 80.7%, respectively, followed by NcPrx2, with a high sensitivity of 87.0% but a low specificity of 67.0%, whereas NcMIC4 showed sensitivity and specificity of 84.1% and 78.9%, respectively, when compared with IFAT. A high degree of agreement was observed for NcSAG1 (k = 0.713) recombinant protein, showing the highest diagnostic capability, followed by NcMIC4 (k = 0.64) and NcPrx2 (k = 0.558). The present study demonstrates that NcSAG1 is helpful as an antigen marker and also demonstrates the potential immunodiagnostic capabilities of NcPrx2 and NcMIC4, which could serve as alternative diagnostic markers for detecting N. caninum infection in cattle. These markers may find utility in future treatment management, surveillance, and risk assessment of neosporosis in livestock or other animal host species. Further research should be directed toward understanding the in vivo immune response differences resulting from immunization with both recombinant proteins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruenruetai Udonsom
- Department of Protozoology, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok 10400, Thailand; (R.U.); (S.P.)
| | - Poom Adisakwattana
- Department of Helminthology, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok 10400, Thailand;
| | - Supaluk Popruk
- Department of Protozoology, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok 10400, Thailand; (R.U.); (S.P.)
| | - Onrapak Reamtong
- Department of Molecular Tropical Medicine and Genetics, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok 10400, Thailand; (O.R.); (T.T.)
| | - Charoonluk Jirapattharasate
- Department of Pre-Clinic and Animal Science, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Mahidol University, Nakhon Pathom 73170, Thailand;
| | - Tipparat Thiangtrongjit
- Department of Molecular Tropical Medicine and Genetics, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok 10400, Thailand; (O.R.); (T.T.)
| | - Sarinya Rerkyusuke
- Division of Livestock Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen 40002, Thailand; (S.R.); (A.C.)
| | - Aran Chanlun
- Division of Livestock Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen 40002, Thailand; (S.R.); (A.C.)
| | - Tanjila Hasan
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Chattogram Veterinary and Animal Sciences University, Chattogram 4225, Bangladesh;
- National Research Center for Protozoan Diseases, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro 080-8555, Japan
| | - Manas Kotepui
- Medical Technology, School of Allied Health Sciences, Walailak University, Nakhon Si Thammarat 80160, Thailand;
| | - Sukhontha Siri
- Department of Epidemiology, Faculty of Public Health, Mahidol University, Bangkok 10400, Thailand;
| | - Yoshifumi Nishikawa
- National Research Center for Protozoan Diseases, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro 080-8555, Japan
| | - Aongart Mahittikorn
- Department of Protozoology, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok 10400, Thailand; (R.U.); (S.P.)
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de Oliveira Lima ÂC, Nolasco M, Freitas LDS, Pinheiro AM, de Carvalho CAL, de Freitas HF, Pita SSDR, Vieira IJC, Braz Filho R, Branco A. A new cyclodipeptide from Tetragonisca angustula honey active against Neospora caninum and in silico study. Nat Prod Res 2023:1-6. [PMID: 37585697 DOI: 10.1080/14786419.2023.2245538] [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: 12/03/2022] [Revised: 07/03/2023] [Accepted: 07/31/2023] [Indexed: 08/18/2023]
Abstract
A new cyclic natural compound formed by succinic acid and two alanine amino acid units was isolated from the Tetragonisca angustula honey extract. The chemical structure of 1 was established based on spectroscopic data analysis, including one- (1H and 13C NMR) and two-dimensional NMR techniques (1H-1H-COSY, HSQC and HMBC). A primary culture model previously infected with Neospora caninum was used to evaluate 1 for two time intervals (24 and 72 h), showing a reduction (40-56%) of the number of tachyzoites in the first 24 h and until 72 h, a dose-dependent reduction in parasite proliferation (25-50%). Glial cells treated with 1 did not demonstrate toxicity at concentrations up to 25 ug/mL. Treated and infected cultures showed an increase in NO when compared to control cells in 24 h and 72 h. In silico studies suggest that the new compound may affect DNA synthesis and impair -protein production.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ângela Cristina de Oliveira Lima
- Graduate Program in Biotechnology, State University of Feira de Santana - UEFS, Feira de Santana, BA, Brazil
- VeterinaryBiochemistry and Immunology Laboratory, Center for Agricultural, Environmental and Biological Sciences, Federal University of Reconcavo da Bahia (UFRB), Cruz das Almas, BA, Brazil
| | - Matheus Nolasco
- Graduate Program in Biotechnology, State University of Feira de Santana - UEFS, Feira de Santana, BA, Brazil
| | - Luciana Dos Santos Freitas
- VeterinaryBiochemistry and Immunology Laboratory, Center for Agricultural, Environmental and Biological Sciences, Federal University of Reconcavo da Bahia (UFRB), Cruz das Almas, BA, Brazil
| | - Alexandre Moraes Pinheiro
- VeterinaryBiochemistry and Immunology Laboratory, Center for Agricultural, Environmental and Biological Sciences, Federal University of Reconcavo da Bahia (UFRB), Cruz das Almas, BA, Brazil
| | - Carlos Alfredo Lopes de Carvalho
- Center for Agricultural, Environmental and Biological Sciences, Federal University of Reconcavo da Bahia (UFRB), Cruz das Almas, BA, Brazil
| | - Humberto Fonseca de Freitas
- Department of Health, State University of Feira de Santana, Feira de Santana, BA, Brazil
- Laboratory of Bioinformatics and Molecular Modeling (LaBiMM,), Pharmacy College, Federal University of Bahia (UFBA), Salvador, Bahia, Brazil
| | - Samuel Silva da Rocha Pita
- Laboratory of Bioinformatics and Molecular Modeling (LaBiMM,), Pharmacy College, Federal University of Bahia (UFBA), Salvador, Bahia, Brazil
| | - Ivo José Curcino Vieira
- Department of Natural Products Chemistry -LCQUI-CCT, University State of North Fluminense Darcy Ribeiro, Campos dos Goytacazes, RJ, Brazil
| | - Raimundo Braz Filho
- Department of Natural Products Chemistry -LCQUI-CCT, University State of North Fluminense Darcy Ribeiro, Campos dos Goytacazes, RJ, Brazil
- Chemistry Department -DEQUIM-ICE, Federal Rural University of Rio de Janeiro, Seropédica, RJ, Brazil
| | - Alexsandro Branco
- Department of Health, State University of Feira de Santana, Feira de Santana, BA, Brazil
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Barimani S, Rassouli M, Emadi Chashmi SH. Molecular detection of Neospora caninum in chicken meat and eggs in Iran. VETERINARY PARASITOLOGY: REGIONAL STUDIES AND REPORTS 2023; 40:100862. [PMID: 37068865 DOI: 10.1016/j.vprsr.2023.100862] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2022] [Revised: 03/07/2023] [Accepted: 03/21/2023] [Indexed: 03/30/2023]
Abstract
Neospora caninum is an obligatory intracellular protozoan parasite, phylum Apicomplexa. Canids are definitive hosts and different animals can be intermediate hosts. Neospora DNA has been also detected in humans, recently. This study aimed to understand the infection rate of N. caninum in chicken meat because consumption of raw and undercooked meat can be the main risk factor for canine neosporosis. Investigation of Neospora vertical transmission to the eggs is also important. One hundred chicken legs, and fifty eggs from free-range chickens, and fifty eggs from industrial chickens were collected from different stores in Semnan city, Iran. Deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) of samples was extracted, and the Nested-PCR (polymerase chain reaction) on Neospora internal transcribed spacer (ITS-1) gene was performed. Neospora caninum DNA was detected in eight out of one hundred (8%) chicken legs, and no eggs were infected. These results revealed that N. caninum infection in chicken meat for the first time in Iran. For the investigation of Neospora vertical transmission to eggs, more studies will be necessary. Indoor carnivores should be fed, and humans should be consumed well-cooked chicken meat to prevent infection.
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Maia ARA, de Melo RPB, Mota RA, Clementino IJ, Alves CJ, de Sousa Américo Batista Santos C, Fernandes LG, de Azevedo SS. Herd and animal level prevalences and risk factors for Neospora caninum infection in cattle in the state of Paraíba, northeastern Brazil. Vet Parasitol Reg Stud Reports 2023; 40:100866. [PMID: 37068861 DOI: 10.1016/j.vprsr.2023.100866] [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: 01/19/2023] [Revised: 03/21/2023] [Accepted: 04/03/2023] [Indexed: 04/19/2023]
Abstract
Bovine neosporosis is a globally important disease, causing abortions and significant economic losses. In Brazil, studies on neosporosis in cattle are few and based on limited samples and/or from limited areas. We aimed to determine the herd and animal levels seroprevalence and associated factors for Neospora caninum infections in cattle from the state of Paraíba, Northeastern Brazil, using a planned sampling. Herds (n = 434) and cows aged ≥24 months (n = 1891) were randomly selected, and serum samples were tested with the immunofluorescence antibody test (IFAT) using as cut-off point the antibody titer 200. Herd-level and animal-level seroprevalences were 17.8% (95% CI = 14.3%-21.8%) and 18.1% (95% CI = 14.7%-22.1%), respectively. The factors associated with N. caninum infection were farm located in the Sertão mesoregion (Prevalence ratio [PR] = 2.37), mixed production (PR = 1.64), herd size of 34-111 animals (PR = 3.50) and herd size >111 animals (PR = 6.14). The results indicate high N. caninum circulation in the bovine population of the state of Paraíba, semiarid of Brazil, mainly in the Sertão mesoregion, where the highest apparent herd and animal-level prevalences of positive herds were identified. Control strategies should be adopted to mitigate the impact of disease on cattle production, as well as it's suggested the encouragement of conducting surveys in wildlife from Caatinga biome, mainly canids, to provide information on the importance of these animals on the epidemiology of bovine neosporosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanda Rafaela Alves Maia
- Unidade acadêmica de Medicina Veterinária, Centro de Saúde e Tecnologia Rural, Universidade Federal de Campina Grande, Patos, Paraíba state, Brazil
| | - Renata Pimentel Bandeira de Melo
- Laboratório de Doenças Infectocontagiosas dos Animais Domésticos, Universidade Federal Rural de Pernambuco, Recife, Pernambuco state, Brazil
| | - Rinaldo Aparecido Mota
- Laboratório de Doenças Infectocontagiosas dos Animais Domésticos, Universidade Federal Rural de Pernambuco, Recife, Pernambuco state, Brazil
| | - Inácio José Clementino
- Departamento de Medicina Veterinária, Centro de Ciências Agrárias, Universidade Federal da Paraíba, Areia, Paraíba state, Brazil
| | - Clebert José Alves
- Unidade acadêmica de Medicina Veterinária, Centro de Saúde e Tecnologia Rural, Universidade Federal de Campina Grande, Patos, Paraíba state, Brazil
| | | | - Leise Gomes Fernandes
- Fundação de Vigilância em Saúde do Amazonas, Sala de Situação de Saúde, Manaus, Amazonas state, Brazil
| | - Sérgio Santos de Azevedo
- Unidade acadêmica de Medicina Veterinária, Centro de Saúde e Tecnologia Rural, Universidade Federal de Campina Grande, Patos, Paraíba state, Brazil.
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Marian L, Withoeft JA, Costa LDS, Ribeiro LR, Melo IC, Alves RS, Baumbach LF, Pinto MGL, Snak A, Miletti LC, Ferraz SM, Sfaciotte RAP, Canal CW, Casagrande RA. Causes of fetal death in the Flemish cattle herd in Brazil. Vet World 2023; 16:766-772. [PMID: 37235167 PMCID: PMC10206958 DOI: 10.14202/vetworld.2023.766-772] [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: 11/09/2022] [Accepted: 03/09/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Background and Aim Flemish cattle in Brazil are on the brink of extinction and are found only in one herd in Lages, Santa Catarina State. This study aimed to uncover the reasons for the recurring abortions in the Flemish cattle herd. Materials and Methods Seventeen Flemish fetuses underwent postmortem examinations, with samples collected for histopathology and microbiology culture tests, polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test for Neospora caninum, and reverse transcription-PCR (RT-PCR) test for bovine viral diarrhea virus (BVDV) from 2015 to 2020. Results Of the 17 fetuses, N. caninum was the most common diagnosis and was found in 88% (15/17). One fetus (5.8%) had a coinfection with N. caninum and Citrobacter amalonaticus, leading to fibrinonecrotic pericarditis. All fetuses tested negative for BVDV by RT-PCR. Of the 107 dams tested by indirect immunofluorescence assay, 26 (25.2%) were anti-N. caninum seropositive, with 17 (65.4%) aborting and 5 (19.2%) having estrus repetition. Reverse transcription-PCR results showed that 9 (8.4%) of the serum samples collected from dams tested positive, which tested follow-up test 3 months later, indicating a BVDV transient infection. The factors that contributed to neosporosis included dogs' access to pastures and improper disposal of fetal remains, which made it easier for dogs to consume them. Conclusion This study warns the occurrence of N. caninum as a cause of reproductive disorders that can lead to abortion in the studied Flemish cattle herd.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucas Marian
- Laboratory of Animal Pathology, Universidade do Estado de Santa Catarina (UDESC), Lages, Santa Catarina, Brazil
| | - Jéssica Aline Withoeft
- Laboratory of Animal Pathology, Universidade do Estado de Santa Catarina (UDESC), Lages, Santa Catarina, Brazil
| | - Leonardo da Silva Costa
- Laboratory of Animal Pathology, Universidade do Estado de Santa Catarina (UDESC), Lages, Santa Catarina, Brazil
| | - Luiza Ramos Ribeiro
- Laboratory of Animal Pathology, Universidade do Estado de Santa Catarina (UDESC), Lages, Santa Catarina, Brazil
| | - Isadora Cristina Melo
- Laboratory of Animal Pathology, Universidade do Estado de Santa Catarina (UDESC), Lages, Santa Catarina, Brazil
| | - Raquel Silva Alves
- Laboratory of Veterinary Virology, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS) Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Letícia Ferreira Baumbach
- Laboratory of Veterinary Virology, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS) Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | | | - Alessandra Snak
- Laboratory of Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases, UDESC, Lages, Santa Catarina, Brazil
| | - Luiz Claudio Miletti
- Laboratory of Biochemistry of Hemoparasites and Vectors, UDESC, Lages, Santa Catarina, Brazil
| | - Sandra Maria Ferraz
- Center for Animal Microbiological Diagnosis, UDESC, Lages, Santa Catarina, Brazil
| | | | - Cláudio Wageck Canal
- Laboratory of Veterinary Virology, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS) Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Renata Assis Casagrande
- Laboratory of Animal Pathology, Universidade do Estado de Santa Catarina (UDESC), Lages, Santa Catarina, Brazil
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Felippelli G, Toscano JHB, Texeira WF, Santos IB, Cruz BC, Maciel WG, Soares VE, Bresciani KDS, Lopes WD, Costa AJ. Viability of Toxoplasma gondii in cattle semen cryopreserved with different concentrations of cryoprotectant. PESQUISA VETERINÁRIA BRASILEIRA 2023. [DOI: 10.1590/1678-5150-pvb-7106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
ABSTRACT: Toxoplasma gondii can be eliminated in bovine semen. Cryopreserved semen is often used due to the fact that artificial insemination in dairy and beef cattle provides benefits in terms of production. However, little is known regarding the viability and infectivity of T. gondii tachyzoites in cryopreserved bovine semen. In the present study, cattle semen negative for T. gondii were contaminated with 1 x 106 tachyzoites (RH strain) and cryopreserved with and without different cryoprotectants, such as DMSO (concentrations of 2.5%, 5.0%, 7.5%, 8.0% and 10.0%) and glycerol (2.25%, 2.5%, 3.0%, 5.0%, 7.5% and 10.0%), followed by freezing in liquid nitrogen (-196°C). After 24 hours, the samples were thawed and inoculated in 10 mice per cryoprotectant concentration. The mice were evaluated for clinical signs of toxoplasmosis (rough coat, diarrhea, hypoactivity and sudden death) as well as serum titers of IgM and IgG and the presence of tachyzoites in the peritoneal lavage. The results revealed that T. gondii remained infective in all samples. Clinical signs of toxoplasmosis were observed in the mice beginning with the 6th day post-inoculation (DPI) and 100% lethality was found between the 7th and 9th DPI. Viable tachyzoites were recovered from peritoneal exudate of dead mice (except for the control group), with higher mean of tachyzoite counts in the intraperitoneal lavage for 5% DMSO (±3.32 x 106), 8% DMSO (±3.53 x 106), 3% glycerol (±4.75 x 106), 7.5% glycerol (±6.26 x 106) and the absence of cryoprotectant (±3.11 x 106). Seroconversion occurred in the treated groups, with titers of IgG from 1:16 to 1:128 and IgM from 1:16 to 1:512. T. gondii viability and infectivity were maintained in cattle semen during 24 hours of cryopreservation at -196°C with and without cryoprotectant. However, further studies are necessary to determine whether cryopreserved semen contributes to the spread of toxoplasmosis through artificial insemination.
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9
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Smith BD, Poliakiwski B, Polanco O, Singleton S, de Melo GD, Muntari M, Oliveira Filho RV, Pohler KG. Decisive points for pregnancy losses in beef cattle. Reprod Fertil Dev 2022; 35:70-83. [PMID: 36592980 DOI: 10.1071/rd22206] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Beef cattle producers rely on each of their cows to produce a marketable calf each year to maintain a sustainable operation. Within the first month of gestation, pregnancy failures have been recorded to be upwards of 40-50%. From fertilisation to birth, there are numerous factors contributing to pregnancy failure. From the beginning of gestation oocyte competence is often a large factor impacting fertility as the dam contributes all mRNA for initial embryo development. Other factors contributing to early embryonic infertility include hormonal concentration and heat stress. After the embryo enters the uterus, it becomes critical for the uterus to be receptive to the developing conceptus. The embryo then begins to elongate and secrete interferon-tau to initiate maternal recognition of pregnancy; a requirement to establish and maintain bovine pregnancies. After a pregnancy completes these steps, placentation actively begins around day 22 of pregnancy and lasts until organogenesis. The fetal phase follows the embryonic phase where disease and/or toxins are often the cause of pregnancy failure at this period. However, fetal mortality has been reported to occur in less than 10% of pregnancies. Understanding of the many factors influencing infertility needs to be further investigated to increase pregnancy success in beef cattle.
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Affiliation(s)
- B D Smith
- Department of Animal Science, Pregnancy and Developmental Programming Area of Excellence, Texas A & M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA
| | - B Poliakiwski
- Department of Animal Science, Pregnancy and Developmental Programming Area of Excellence, Texas A & M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA
| | - O Polanco
- Department of Animal Science, Pregnancy and Developmental Programming Area of Excellence, Texas A & M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA
| | - S Singleton
- Department of Animal Science, Pregnancy and Developmental Programming Area of Excellence, Texas A & M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA
| | - G D de Melo
- Department of Animal Science, Pregnancy and Developmental Programming Area of Excellence, Texas A & M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA
| | - M Muntari
- Department of Animal Science, Pregnancy and Developmental Programming Area of Excellence, Texas A & M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA
| | - R V Oliveira Filho
- Department of Animal Science, Pregnancy and Developmental Programming Area of Excellence, Texas A & M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA
| | - K G Pohler
- Department of Animal Science, Pregnancy and Developmental Programming Area of Excellence, Texas A & M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA
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Retrospective Molecular Survey on Bacterial and Protozoan Abortive Agents in Roe Deer (Capreolus capreolus) from Central Italy. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:ani12223202. [PMID: 36428429 PMCID: PMC9686506 DOI: 10.3390/ani12223202] [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: 10/25/2022] [Revised: 11/16/2022] [Accepted: 11/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Bacterial and protozoan agents can determine abortion and other reproductive disorders in domestic ruminants, but data regarding their occurrence in wild ruminants are scanty worldwide, including in Italy. The aim of this retrospective study was to verify the occurrence of the main bacterial and protozoan abortive agents in 72 spleen samples previously collected from roe deer (Capreolus capreolus) living in mountain areas of Central Italy. All samples were collected and submitted to DNA extraction for other investigations. Molecular analyses were carried out on the DNA samples to detect Brucella spp., Chlamydia abortus, Coxiella burnetii, Salmonella enterica, Listeria monocytogenes, Neospora caninum, and Toxoplasma gondii. Three (4.16%) roe deer resulted PCR positive for C. burnetii and one (1.38%) for T. gondii. These findings suggest that roe deer living in the investigated areas do not act as important reservoirs of the searched agents. However, the tested animals lived in a closed area without contact with domestic animals that are usually involved in the epidemiology of the investigated pathogens. Monitoring of wild ruminants is pivotal to verify changes in the epidemiological scenario from a One Health perspective, too.
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Qi T, Ai J, Yang J, Zhu H, Zhou Y, Zhu Y, Zhang H, Qin Q, Kang M, Sun Y, Li J. Seroepidemiology of Neosporosis in Various Animals in the Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau. Front Vet Sci 2022; 9:953380. [PMID: 35928116 PMCID: PMC9343756 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2022.953380] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2022] [Accepted: 06/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Neosporosis is a worldwide infectious disease caused by intracellular parasite Neospora caninum that is a major pathogen of abortion in cattle and neurological disorders in other hosts. However, limited data are available on animals exposed to N. caninum in the Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau Area (QTPA), and little is known about whether animals in the plateau area play an important role in the epidemiology of N. caninum. Therefore, indirect ELISAs based on a combination of NcSAG1 and NcGRA7 antigens were developed to examine both N. caninum-specific IgG and IgM antibodies in Tibetan sheep, yak, cow, pig, cattle, horse, chicken, camel, and donkey from the QTPA in this study. The results showed that all current species present- IgG and IgM-positive animals, and that the overall seroprevalence of N. caninum were 18.6 (703/3,782) and 48.1% (1,820/3,782) for the IgG and IgM antibodies, respectively. Further analysis found significant differences from different altitudes in IgG in Tibetan sheep and IgM in the yak. Hence, the present serological results indicate that the tested animal populations in the QTPA are suffering from N. caninum infections or have become carriers of N. caninum antibodies. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report on current N. caninum-infected animals in the QTPA, the first epidemiology of neosporosis in cow and camel in China, and the first record of N. caninum IgM antibodies in all the surveyed animals in China. This study provides the latest valuable data on the epidemiology of neosporosis in China and in plateau areas of the world.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tongsheng Qi
- State Key Laboratory of Plateau Ecology and Agriculture, Qinghai University, Xining, China
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, College of Agriculture and Animal Husbandry, Qinghai University, Xining, China
| | - Jingkai Ai
- State Key Laboratory of Plateau Ecology and Agriculture, Qinghai University, Xining, China
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, College of Agriculture and Animal Husbandry, Qinghai University, Xining, China
| | - Jinfang Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Plateau Ecology and Agriculture, Qinghai University, Xining, China
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, College of Agriculture and Animal Husbandry, Qinghai University, Xining, China
| | - Heng Zhu
- State Key Laboratory of Plateau Ecology and Agriculture, Qinghai University, Xining, China
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, College of Agriculture and Animal Husbandry, Qinghai University, Xining, China
| | - Yuyu Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Plateau Ecology and Agriculture, Qinghai University, Xining, China
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, College of Agriculture and Animal Husbandry, Qinghai University, Xining, China
| | - Yulu Zhu
- State Key Laboratory of Plateau Ecology and Agriculture, Qinghai University, Xining, China
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, College of Agriculture and Animal Husbandry, Qinghai University, Xining, China
| | - Heming Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Plateau Ecology and Agriculture, Qinghai University, Xining, China
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, College of Agriculture and Animal Husbandry, Qinghai University, Xining, China
| | - Qi Qin
- State Key Laboratory of Plateau Ecology and Agriculture, Qinghai University, Xining, China
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, College of Agriculture and Animal Husbandry, Qinghai University, Xining, China
| | - Ming Kang
- State Key Laboratory of Plateau Ecology and Agriculture, Qinghai University, Xining, China
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, College of Agriculture and Animal Husbandry, Qinghai University, Xining, China
| | - Yali Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Plateau Ecology and Agriculture, Qinghai University, Xining, China
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, College of Agriculture and Animal Husbandry, Qinghai University, Xining, China
- Qinghai Provincial Key Laboratory of Pathogen Diagnosis for Animal Diseases and Green Technical Research for Prevention and Control, Qinghai University, Xining, China
| | - Jixu Li
- State Key Laboratory of Plateau Ecology and Agriculture, Qinghai University, Xining, China
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, College of Agriculture and Animal Husbandry, Qinghai University, Xining, China
- Qinghai Provincial Key Laboratory of Pathogen Diagnosis for Animal Diseases and Green Technical Research for Prevention and Control, Qinghai University, Xining, China
- *Correspondence: Jixu Li
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Yang J, Ai J, Qi T, Ni X, Xu Z, Guo L, Sun Y, Li Y, Kang M, Li J. Toxoplasma gondii and Neospora caninum Infections in Stray Cats and Dogs in the Qinghai–Tibetan Plateau Area, China. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:ani12111390. [PMID: 35681854 PMCID: PMC9179287 DOI: 10.3390/ani12111390] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2022] [Revised: 05/25/2022] [Accepted: 05/26/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Diseases caused by parasites have introduced serious threats to human health and the development of animal husbandry in the Qinghai–Tibetan Plateau Area (QTPA), such as toxoplasmosis caused by Toxoplasma gondii and neosporosis caused by Neospora caninum. However, information on the epidemiology of toxoplasmosis and neosporosis in stray cats and dogs which are the definitive hosts of T. gondii and N. caninum in the QTPA is limited. The aim of this study was to establish a detailed record of the seroprevalence of T. gondii and N. caninum-specific IgG and IgM antibodies in serum samples and the molecular epidemiology in feces from stray cats and dogs in the plateau area. The results revealed that stray cats and dogs in the QTPA, China present both T. gondii and N. caninum infection through the antibodies and antigen detection of the indirect ELISA tests and qPCRs. The present study suggests the prevalence of acute neosporosis and chronic re-emergence of toxoplasmosis in stray cats and dogs in the testing area. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of T. gondii and N. caninum infection in cats and dogs in the QTPA, and the first determination of N. caninum infection in cats in China. In conclusion, stray cats and dogs play key roles in the transmission and prevalence of T. gondii and N. caninum in the plateau area. Abstract Toxoplasma gondii and Neospora caninum belong to the Apicomplexan protozoa which is an obligate intracellular parasite, causing toxoplasmosis and neosporosis throughout the world. Cats and dogs are the definitive hosts of these two parasites. However, information on the epidemiology of toxoplasmosis and neosporosis in stray cats and dogs in the Qinghai–Tibetan Plateau Area (QTPA) is limited, and little is known about the diversity of the diseases. Therefore, the aim of this study was to perform indirect ELISA tests based on recombinant TgSAG1, TgGRA1, NcSAG1 and NcGRA7 proteins to establish a detailed record of the seroprevalence of T. gondii and N. caninum-specific IgG and IgM antibodies in serum samples and to develop qPCR amplification based on TgB1 and NcNc5 genes to conduct molecular epidemiology in feces from stray cats and dogs in the QTPA. In the current study, a total of 128 cat serum samples were analyzed through serological tests in which 53 (41.4%) and 57 (44.5%) samples were found positive for T. gondii specific-IgG and IgM antibodies, and 2 (1.6%) and 74 (57.8%) samples were confirmed positive for N. caninum specific-IgG and IgM antibodies, respectively. Out of 224 stray dog sera, 59.8% and 58.9% were recorded as positive against anti-Toxoplasma IgG and IgM antibodies, 17.9% and 64.7% were detected positive against Neospora IgG and IgM. On the other hand, 1 of 18 cat fecal samples was successfully amplified within the Ct value of 10 to 30 while no cat was positive for neosporosis. Moreover, a higher prevalence of toxoplasmosis in stray dogs (14.5%, 16/110) than of neosporosis (5.5%, 6/110) with different parasite numbers were found. Further analysis showed that no significant sex differences were found nor between the overall infection rates of T. gondii and N. caninum in this study. This study suggests that stray cats and dogs play key roles in the transmission and prevalence of T. gondii and N. caninum in the plateau area.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinfang Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Plateau Ecology and Agriculture, Qinghai University, Xining 810016, China; (J.Y.); (J.A.); (T.Q.); (X.N.); (Z.X.); (L.G.); (Y.S.); (Y.L.); (M.K.)
- College of Agriculture and Animal Husbandry, Qinghai University, Xining 810016, China
| | - Jingkai Ai
- State Key Laboratory of Plateau Ecology and Agriculture, Qinghai University, Xining 810016, China; (J.Y.); (J.A.); (T.Q.); (X.N.); (Z.X.); (L.G.); (Y.S.); (Y.L.); (M.K.)
- College of Agriculture and Animal Husbandry, Qinghai University, Xining 810016, China
| | - Tongsheng Qi
- State Key Laboratory of Plateau Ecology and Agriculture, Qinghai University, Xining 810016, China; (J.Y.); (J.A.); (T.Q.); (X.N.); (Z.X.); (L.G.); (Y.S.); (Y.L.); (M.K.)
- College of Agriculture and Animal Husbandry, Qinghai University, Xining 810016, China
| | - Xiaomin Ni
- State Key Laboratory of Plateau Ecology and Agriculture, Qinghai University, Xining 810016, China; (J.Y.); (J.A.); (T.Q.); (X.N.); (Z.X.); (L.G.); (Y.S.); (Y.L.); (M.K.)
- College of Agriculture and Animal Husbandry, Qinghai University, Xining 810016, China
| | - Zichun Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Plateau Ecology and Agriculture, Qinghai University, Xining 810016, China; (J.Y.); (J.A.); (T.Q.); (X.N.); (Z.X.); (L.G.); (Y.S.); (Y.L.); (M.K.)
- College of Agriculture and Animal Husbandry, Qinghai University, Xining 810016, China
| | - Liangting Guo
- State Key Laboratory of Plateau Ecology and Agriculture, Qinghai University, Xining 810016, China; (J.Y.); (J.A.); (T.Q.); (X.N.); (Z.X.); (L.G.); (Y.S.); (Y.L.); (M.K.)
- College of Agriculture and Animal Husbandry, Qinghai University, Xining 810016, China
| | - Yali Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Plateau Ecology and Agriculture, Qinghai University, Xining 810016, China; (J.Y.); (J.A.); (T.Q.); (X.N.); (Z.X.); (L.G.); (Y.S.); (Y.L.); (M.K.)
- College of Agriculture and Animal Husbandry, Qinghai University, Xining 810016, China
- Qinghai Provincial Key Laboratory of Pathogen Diagnosis for Animal Diseases and Green Technical Research for Prevention and Control, Qinghai University, Xining 810016, China
| | - Ying Li
- State Key Laboratory of Plateau Ecology and Agriculture, Qinghai University, Xining 810016, China; (J.Y.); (J.A.); (T.Q.); (X.N.); (Z.X.); (L.G.); (Y.S.); (Y.L.); (M.K.)
- College of Agriculture and Animal Husbandry, Qinghai University, Xining 810016, China
| | - Ming Kang
- State Key Laboratory of Plateau Ecology and Agriculture, Qinghai University, Xining 810016, China; (J.Y.); (J.A.); (T.Q.); (X.N.); (Z.X.); (L.G.); (Y.S.); (Y.L.); (M.K.)
- College of Agriculture and Animal Husbandry, Qinghai University, Xining 810016, China
| | - Jixu Li
- State Key Laboratory of Plateau Ecology and Agriculture, Qinghai University, Xining 810016, China; (J.Y.); (J.A.); (T.Q.); (X.N.); (Z.X.); (L.G.); (Y.S.); (Y.L.); (M.K.)
- College of Agriculture and Animal Husbandry, Qinghai University, Xining 810016, China
- Qinghai Provincial Key Laboratory of Pathogen Diagnosis for Animal Diseases and Green Technical Research for Prevention and Control, Qinghai University, Xining 810016, China
- Correspondence:
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Pereira LM, Audrey de Paula J, Baroni L, Bezerra MA, Abreu-Filho PG, Yatsuda AP. Molecular characterization of NCLIV_011700 of Neospora caninum, a low sequence identity rhoptry protein. Exp Parasitol 2022; 238:108268. [PMID: 35513005 DOI: 10.1016/j.exppara.2022.108268] [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: 04/05/2021] [Revised: 03/25/2022] [Accepted: 04/28/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Neospora caninum is an obligate intracellular parasite related to abortion in cattle, goats and sheep. The life cycle of N. caninum is characterized by the time-coordinated secretion of proteins contained in micronemes, rhoptries and dense granules, allowing the active invasion and the adaptation of the parasite in the cell environment. Thus, the proteins of the secretome have the potential to be considered as targets for N. caninum control. Despite the importance of neosporosis in the livestock-related economy, no commercial treatment is available. Furthermore, the process of invasion, propagation and immune evasion are not completely elucidated. In this study, we initiated the characterization of NCLIV_011700 of N. caninum, a protein with low sequence identity to NcROP15 or TgROP15 (<15%). Our goal was the detection and molecular characterization of the NCLIV_011700, once homology (with low identity >20%) was observed within the Apicomplexa. The NCLIV_011700 sequence was aligned and compared to the closer apicomplexan homologues (ROP15 from N. caninum, T. gondii, Hammondia hammondi, Cystospores suis), including the predicted domains. In general, the NCLIV_011700 demonstrated low identity with ROP15 of apicomplexan (<20%) and had a ubiquitin domain. On the other side, the NCLIV_011700 homologues were composed of a non-cytoplasmic domain, suggesting different functions between NcROP15 (or homologues) and NCLIV_011700 during the parasite life cycle. Moreover, the NCLIV_011700 was amplified by PCR, ligated to a pET28a plasmid and expressed in Escherichia coli. The recombinant form of NCLIV_011700 was purified in a nickel-Sepharose resin and applied for polyclonal antibody production in mice. The antiserum against NCLIV_011700 (anti-r NCLIV_011700) was used to localize the native form of the protein using Western blot and confocal microscopy. Also, the NCLIV_011700 antiserum partially inhibited the parasite adhesion/invasion process, indicating an active role of the protein in the N. caninum cycle. Thus, the initial NCLIV_011700 characterization will contribute to enlarging the comprehension of N. caninum, aiming at the future development of tools to control the parasite infection/propagation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luiz Miguel Pereira
- Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo, Av do Café, sn/n, 14040-903, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Julia Audrey de Paula
- Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo, Av do Café, sn/n, 14040-903, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Luciana Baroni
- Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo, Av do Café, sn/n, 14040-903, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Marcos Alexandre Bezerra
- Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo, Av do Café, sn/n, 14040-903, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Péricles Gama Abreu-Filho
- Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo, Av do Café, sn/n, 14040-903, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Ana Patrícia Yatsuda
- Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo, Av do Café, sn/n, 14040-903, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil.
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Del'Arco AE, Argolo DS, Guillemin G, Costa MDFD, Costa SL, Pinheiro AM. Neurological Infection, Kynurenine Pathway, and Parasitic Infection by Neospora caninum. Front Immunol 2022; 12:714248. [PMID: 35154065 PMCID: PMC8826404 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.714248] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2021] [Accepted: 12/31/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Neuroinflammation is one of the most frequently studied topics of neurosciences as it is a common feature in almost all neurological disorders. Although the primary function of neuroinflammation is to protect the nervous system from an insult, the complex and sequential response of activated glial cells can lead to neurological damage. Depending on the type of insults and the time post-insult, the inflammatory response can be neuroprotective, neurotoxic, or, depending on the glial cell types, both. There are multiple pathways activated and many bioactive intermediates are released during neuroinflammation. One of the most common one is the kynurenine pathway, catabolizing tryptophan, which is involved in immune regulation, neuroprotection, and neurotoxicity. Different models have been used to study the kynurenine pathway metabolites to understand their involvements in the development and maintenance of the inflammatory processes triggered by infections. Among them, the parasitic infection Neospora caninum could be used as a relevant model to study the role of the kynurenine pathway in the neuroinflammatory response and the subset of cells involved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Elisa Del'Arco
- Laboratory of Biochemistry and Veterinary Immunology, Center of Agrarian, Environmental and Biological Sciences, Federal University of Recôncavo of Bahia (UFRB), Cruz das Almas, Brazil
| | - Deivison Silva Argolo
- Laboratory of Neurochemistry and Cellular Biology, Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Institute of Health Sciences, Federal University of Bahia (UFBA), Bahia, Brazil
| | - Gilles Guillemin
- Neuroinflammation Group, Macquarie Medicine School, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Maria de Fátima Dias Costa
- Laboratory of Neurochemistry and Cellular Biology, Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Institute of Health Sciences, Federal University of Bahia (UFBA), Bahia, Brazil
| | - Silvia Lima Costa
- Laboratory of Neurochemistry and Cellular Biology, Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Institute of Health Sciences, Federal University of Bahia (UFBA), Bahia, Brazil
| | - Alexandre Moraes Pinheiro
- Laboratory of Biochemistry and Veterinary Immunology, Center of Agrarian, Environmental and Biological Sciences, Federal University of Recôncavo of Bahia (UFRB), Cruz das Almas, Brazil
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Detection of Anti-Neospora caninum Antibodies on Dairy Cattle Farms in Southern Italy. Vet Sci 2022; 9:vetsci9020087. [PMID: 35202340 PMCID: PMC8876793 DOI: 10.3390/vetsci9020087] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2021] [Revised: 02/01/2022] [Accepted: 02/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Neosporosis is recognized as one of the major causes of bovine abortion worldwide. Canids are the main definitive host for this parasite and the presence of dogs in the farm is an important factor for the Neospora caninum infection in bovines. Since, in the province of Lecce, located in the Apulia region of Southern Italy, there are no studies showing the presence of the infection in farm animals, the objective was to perform a serological evaluation for anti-N. caninum antibodiesin serum from 706 dairy cattle and 21 farm dogs located in 40 farms uniformlydistributed over the territory.The presence of N. caninum infection was confirmed in 90.0% (36/40) of the 40 farms examined. The results obtained on all serum samples by an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ID Screen®Neospora caninum competition ELISA kit) for anti-N. caninum antibodies showed a seropositivity rate of 21.1% (149/706) among dairy cows, with a statistically significant higher percentage of positive subjects in the animals over two years old and a positivity rate of 42.9% (9/21) in tested dogs. The obtained data confirmed the presence of neosporosis even in the Lecce area, where it could therefore represent an important cause of abortion and economic losses.
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de Souza GG, Amatti LZ, Garcia LV, Costa LR, Minutti AF, Martins TA, Bogado ALG, Ignácio FS, de Almeida BFM, Garcia JL, de Barros LD. Neospora caninum infection and reproductive problems in dairy cows from Brazil: A case-control study. Vet Parasitol Reg Stud Reports 2022; 28:100683. [PMID: 35115122 DOI: 10.1016/j.vprsr.2021.100683] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2021] [Revised: 12/14/2021] [Accepted: 12/27/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Neosporosis, an infectious disease caused by the protozoan Neospora caninum, has been associated with economic losses in cattle rearing worldwide. However, previous studies have not presented any evidence regarding the association between serological status of neosporosis and alteration of the reproductive parameters. Thus, this study aimed to determine whether N. caninum is associated with reproductive disorders and to evaluate the possible risk factors of the infection. Blood samples from 202 dairy cows, 51 with a history of reproductive disorders (case group) and 151 without (control group), were collected from different farms in Brazil. Epidemiological questionnaires were conducted with all the farmers. Serum samples were subjected to an indirect fluorescent antibody test to detect antibodies against the parasite. In total, 28.22% (57/202) of the cows were seropositive: 47.06% (24/51) from the case group and 21.85% (33/151) from the control group. By logistic regression, cows aged ≥48 months and cows with history of abortion were 4.8 (95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.91-12.05; p = 0.001) and 2.3 (95% CI = 1.06-5.1; p = 0.034) times more likely to be seropositive, respectively. Furthermore, our results show an association between N. caninum seropositivity and abortion in dairy cows from Brazil with poor management conditions and N. caninum seropositivity risk factors for reproductive disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giovanna Gati de Souza
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Faculdades Integradas de Ourinhos, Rodovia BR 153, Km 338+420m, 19909-100 Ourinhos, SP, Brazil; Department of Clinical Veterinary, Universidade Estadual Paulista, R. Dr. Valter Maurício Corrêa, s/n, 18618-681 Botucatu, SP, Brazil
| | - Lidiana Zanetti Amatti
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Faculdades Integradas de Ourinhos, Rodovia BR 153, Km 338+420m, 19909-100 Ourinhos, SP, Brazil
| | - Luana Venâncio Garcia
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Faculdades Integradas de Ourinhos, Rodovia BR 153, Km 338+420m, 19909-100 Ourinhos, SP, Brazil
| | - Letícia Ramos Costa
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Faculdades Integradas de Ourinhos, Rodovia BR 153, Km 338+420m, 19909-100 Ourinhos, SP, Brazil
| | - Ana Flávia Minutti
- Department of Preventive Veterinary Medicine, Laboratory of Animal Protozoology, Universidade Estadual de Londrina, Rodovia Celso Garcia Cid, Pr 445 km 380, 86057-970 Londrina, PR, Brazil
| | - Thais Agostinho Martins
- Department of Preventive Veterinary Medicine, Laboratory of Animal Protozoology, Universidade Estadual de Londrina, Rodovia Celso Garcia Cid, Pr 445 km 380, 86057-970 Londrina, PR, Brazil
| | - Alexey Leon Gomel Bogado
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Universidade Norte do Paraná, Rodovia Pr 218, Km 01, 86702-670 Arapongas, PR, Brazil
| | - Fernanda Saules Ignácio
- Department of Clinical Veterinary, Universidade Estadual Paulista, R. Dr. Valter Maurício Corrêa, s/n, 18618-681 Botucatu, SP, Brazil
| | | | - João Luis Garcia
- Department of Preventive Veterinary Medicine, Laboratory of Animal Protozoology, Universidade Estadual de Londrina, Rodovia Celso Garcia Cid, Pr 445 km 380, 86057-970 Londrina, PR, Brazil
| | - Luiz Daniel de Barros
- Department of Preventive Veterinary Medicine, Laboratory of Animal Protozoology, Universidade Estadual de Londrina, Rodovia Celso Garcia Cid, Pr 445 km 380, 86057-970 Londrina, PR, Brazil; Department of Clinical Veterinary, Universidade Estadual Paulista, R. Dr. Valter Maurício Corrêa, s/n, 18618-681 Botucatu, SP, Brazil.
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Assessment of transplacental transmission of Neospora caninum and Toxoplasma gondii in Neotropical deer: an estimative based on serology. Vet Parasitol 2022; 303:109677. [DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2022.109677] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2022] [Revised: 02/04/2022] [Accepted: 02/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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A Newly Discovered Dense Granule Protein 3 in Neospora caninum. Acta Parasitol 2021; 66:1581-1585. [PMID: 34019280 DOI: 10.1007/s11686-021-00402-7] [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: 02/26/2021] [Accepted: 04/26/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Neospora caninum, an obligate intracellular parasite of the phylum Apicomplexa, typically causes an illness known as neosporosis. Dense granule proteins (GRAs) are secreted by apicomplexan and constitute the parasitophorous vacuoles (PVs) structure where tachyzoites proliferate after invasion into host cells. In Toxoplasma gondii, TgGRA3 proteins are strongly associated with PVs membrane and enhance its virulence in vivo, however, research on NcGRA3 has not been reported. METHODS Here, a novel NcGRA3 protein in N. caninum was discovered using bioinformatics analysis; the location of NcGRA3 was determined in the extracellular Nc-1 tachyzoites and intracellular PVs after invasion using immunofluorescence assays; the NcGRA3 protein existing form in the PVs membranes was analyzed using western blotting. RESULTS NcGRA3 shared 41.67% nucleotide homology and 22.17% amino acid homology with TgGRA3. Amino acid sequences ranging from 1 to 25 were signal peptide regions and 135-157 were transmembrane domains. The immunofluorescence assays showed that NcGRA3 was an apical organ secreted dense granule protein and expressed at the posterior end of tachyzoites; the partial co-localization with NcGRA6 in PVs demonstrated that NcGRA3 were expressed in the intravacuolar network structure and PVs membrane. The western blotting assays showed that NcGRA3 protein behaved as an integrated transmembrane protein in PVs. Overall, characterization of the newly discovered NcGRA3 protein will lay a foundation for its function research in the further.
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Hebbar BK, Mitra P, Khan W, Chaudhari S, Shinde S, Deshmukh AS. Seroprevalence and associated risk factors of Toxoplasma gondii and Neospora caninum infections in cattle in Central India. Parasitol Int 2021; 87:102514. [PMID: 34781014 DOI: 10.1016/j.parint.2021.102514] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2021] [Revised: 11/01/2021] [Accepted: 11/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii and Neospora caninum are closely related cyst-forming parasites identified as important causes of reproductive failures in ruminants. While these parasites have been reported worldwide, seroprevalence and associated risk factors for cattle infections have not been determined in India. A total of 576 serum samples of cattle were analyzed for antibodies to T. gondii and N. caninum using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), modified/Neospora agglutination test (MAT/NAT), and an indirect fluorescent antibody test (IFAT-tachyzoite and bradyzoite). Additionally, general information about cattle, movement of cats and dogs, the menace of rodents, management, and reproductive disorders were assessed to identify the potential risk factors. Overall, 32.9% (190/576) serum samples reacted positively to T. gondii and 24.8% (143/576) to N. caninum. The performance of the diagnostic tests showed excellent agreement between IFAT and ELISA (kappa [κ] = 0.98) and between MAT/NAT and ELISA (κ = 0.97). Combining both infections on avidity test, 94% sera had high-IgG avidity, and 3% had low-IgG avidity antibodies, indicating chronic infection in the majority of the cases. The identified risk factors (p < 0.05) for exposure to T. gondii were: increasing age (Odds Ratio [OR]: 2.02), movement of cat (OR: 4.8) and rodents (OR: 1.57) in the farm; and for N. caninum: increasing age (OR: 1.6), movement of dogs in the farm (OR: 2.07), drinking pond water (OR: 1.64) and abortion (OR: 1.82). These findings revealed that T. gondii and N. caninum infections are widespread in the study area and suggest conducting nationwide epidemiological studies owing to their economic importance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bhavana K Hebbar
- Molecular Parasitology Laboratory, DBT-National Institute of Animal Biotechnology, Hyderabad, India
| | - Pallabi Mitra
- Department of Animal Biology, School of Life Sciences, University of Hyderabad, Hyderabad, India
| | - Waqar Khan
- Department of Veterinary Public Health & Epidemiology, Nagpur Veterinary College, Nagpur, India
| | - Sandeep Chaudhari
- Department of Veterinary Public Health & Epidemiology, Nagpur Veterinary College, Nagpur, India
| | - Shilpshri Shinde
- Department of Veterinary Public Health & Epidemiology, Nagpur Veterinary College, Nagpur, India
| | - Abhijit S Deshmukh
- Molecular Parasitology Laboratory, DBT-National Institute of Animal Biotechnology, Hyderabad, India.
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20
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Padilha TC, Zitelli LC, Webster A, Dall'Agnol B, Rosa VBD, Souza U, Peters FB, Jardim M, Trigo TC, Rodrigues RO, Marks FS, Reck J. Serosurvey of antibodies against zoonotic pathogens in free-ranging wild canids (Cerdocyon thous and Lycalopex gymnocercus) from Southern Brazil. Comp Immunol Microbiol Infect Dis 2021; 79:101716. [PMID: 34715476 DOI: 10.1016/j.cimid.2021.101716] [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: 08/06/2021] [Revised: 10/11/2021] [Accepted: 10/17/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
The expansion of urbanization on natural areas is increasing contact between human populations with wild animals. Wild carnivores can act as sentinel hosts or environmental health indicators. Thus, the aim of this work was to investigate the exposure of two major species of wild canids from Southern Brazil to selected pathogens. For that, we live-trapped free-ranging Cerdocyon thous and Lycalopex gymnocercus in five localities and determined the frequency of animals with antibodies against Toxoplasma gondii, Trypanosoma cruzi, Leishmania infantum, Neospora caninum, and Leptospira spp. Among the canids sampled, 23% (12/52) (95%CI: 13-36%) had antibodies against T. gondii, with titers ranging from 64 to 512. For T. cruzi, 28% (15/52) (95%CI: 18-42%) of sampled canids were seropositive, with titers ranging from 8 to 64. Concerning the protozoan pathogen N. caninum, a total of 5% (3/52) (95%CI: 2-15%) of wild canids had antibodies against it. None of the sampled canids showed the presence of antibodies against L. infantum. On the other hand, 44% (23/52) (95%CI: 31-57%) of the wild canids showed antibodies against Leptospira spp. The set of results presented here, show that free-ranging neotropical wild canids are exposed and have antibodies against to T. gondii, T. cruzi, Leptospira spp., and to a lesser degree to N. caninum. We found no evidence of L. infantum circulation among the studied populations. These results highlight some of the major pathogens which may represent risks for populations of these wild canids. DATA AVAILABILITY STATEMENT: The data that support the findings of this study are available from the corresponding author upon reasonable request.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thamiris Cardoso Padilha
- Centro de Pesquisa em Saúde Animal, Instituto de Pesquisas Veterinárias Desidério Finamor (IPVDF), Eldorado do Sul, RS, Brazil
| | - Larissa Caló Zitelli
- Centro de Pesquisa em Saúde Animal, Instituto de Pesquisas Veterinárias Desidério Finamor (IPVDF), Eldorado do Sul, RS, Brazil
| | - Anelise Webster
- Centro de Pesquisa em Saúde Animal, Instituto de Pesquisas Veterinárias Desidério Finamor (IPVDF), Eldorado do Sul, RS, Brazil
| | - Bruno Dall'Agnol
- Centro de Pesquisa em Saúde Animal, Instituto de Pesquisas Veterinárias Desidério Finamor (IPVDF), Eldorado do Sul, RS, Brazil
| | - Verônica Bueno da Rosa
- Centro de Pesquisa em Saúde Animal, Instituto de Pesquisas Veterinárias Desidério Finamor (IPVDF), Eldorado do Sul, RS, Brazil
| | - Ugo Souza
- Centro de Pesquisa em Saúde Animal, Instituto de Pesquisas Veterinárias Desidério Finamor (IPVDF), Eldorado do Sul, RS, Brazil
| | | | - Márcia Jardim
- Museu de Ciências Naturais do Rio Grande do Sul, Secretaria de Meio Ambiente e Infraestrutura (SEMA), Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - Tatiane Campos Trigo
- Museu de Ciências Naturais do Rio Grande do Sul, Secretaria de Meio Ambiente e Infraestrutura (SEMA), Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - Rogério Oliveira Rodrigues
- Centro de Pesquisa em Saúde Animal, Instituto de Pesquisas Veterinárias Desidério Finamor (IPVDF), Eldorado do Sul, RS, Brazil
| | - Fernanda Simone Marks
- Departamento de Medicina Veterinária (DVT), Universidade Federal de Viçosa (UFV), Viçosa, MG, Brazil
| | - José Reck
- Centro de Pesquisa em Saúde Animal, Instituto de Pesquisas Veterinárias Desidério Finamor (IPVDF), Eldorado do Sul, RS, Brazil.
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21
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Salehi B, Amouei A, Dodangeh S, Daryani A, Sarvi S, Safari-Kharyeki MR, Salehi S, Hosseini SA, Hosseininejad Z. Molecular Identification of Neospora caninum Infection in Aborted Fetuses of Sheep, Cattle, and Goats in Mazandaran Province, Northern Iran. IRANIAN JOURNAL OF PARASITOLOGY 2021; 16:483-489. [PMID: 34630594 PMCID: PMC8476731 DOI: 10.18502/ijpa.v16i3.7102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2020] [Accepted: 12/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
Abstract
Background: We aimed to identify Neospora caninum DNA in the brain samples of aborted fetuses of cattle, goats, and sheep in Mazandaran, northern Iran, using PCR. Methods: In total, 133 aborted fetuses (51 sheep, 78 cattle, and 4 goats) were randomly collected from different stages of gestation in various regions of Mazandaran, Iran, from Mar 2016 to May 2017. The DNA was extracted from all the brain samples using phenol chloroform isoamyl alcohol instructions. The Nc-5 gene was used for the detection of N. caninum DNA by nested-PCR assay. Results: The detection of N. caninum DNA was confirmed by the observation of a 227 bp band in 24 samples of 133 aborted fetuses (18.1%). The highest prevalence rate of N. caninum was detected in the cattle (20.5%) followed by the sheep (15.6%); however, no positive cases were reported in the goats. The highest and lowest prevalence rates of the infection were reported as 23.8% and 8.6% in Qaemshahr, and Behshahr, respectively. The prevalence rate of infection (32%) in the early gestational period was higher than those in the middle (15%) and late (3.8%) gestational periods. Conclusion: The obtained data of the present study indicated that N. caninum infection may partly be responsible for abortion and economic loss in livestock farming in Mazandaran Province.
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Affiliation(s)
- Behnaz Salehi
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
| | - Afsaneh Amouei
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran.,Student Research Committee, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
| | - Samira Dodangeh
- Medical Microbiology Research Center, Qazvin University of Medical Sciences, Qazvin, Iran
| | - Ahmad Daryani
- Toxoplasmosis Research Center, Communicable Diseases Institute, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
| | - Shahabeddin Sarvi
- Toxoplasmosis Research Center, Communicable Diseases Institute, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
| | | | - Saeid Salehi
- Mazandaran Provincial Veterinary Department of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
| | - Seyed Abdollah Hosseini
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
| | - Zahra Hosseininejad
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
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22
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Fereig RM, Abdelbaky HH, Nishikawa Y. Comparative Evaluation of Four Potent Neospora caninum Diagnostic Antigens Using Immunochromatographic Assay for Detection of Specific Antibody in Cattle. Microorganisms 2021; 9:microorganisms9102133. [PMID: 34683454 PMCID: PMC8541029 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms9102133] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2021] [Accepted: 10/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Neospora caninum is an intracellular protozoan parasite responsible for numerous abortion outbreaks and neonatal abnormalities in cattle. Rapid and accurate diagnosis is critical for N. caninum control owing to the lack of vaccine or drug-based control strategies. Herein, we evaluated the performance of four frequently used antigens in the diagnosis of N. caninum infection using immunochromatographic tests (ICTs) as a rapid, affordable, and field applicable tool. These antigens included recombinant proteins of N. caninum surface antigen 1 (NcSAG1), dense granule proteins 7 (NcGRA7) and 6 (NcGRA6), in addition to native Neospora lysate antigen (NLA). Our study revealed the utility of all antigen-based ICTs for detection of specific antibodies to N. caninum. However, the NcSAG1-based ICT was the best for detection of all control N. caninum-infected mouse or cattle sera, while NcGRA7 and NcGRA6-based ICTs exhibited specific ability to detect samples from acute and sub-acute infection in mice and cattle, respectively. Analyses of the NcSAG1-based ICT against enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISAs) of the same antigen revealed its efficiency in detection of field cattle samples as observed in high sensitivity (84.2%), specificity (93.5%), agreement (90%), and kappa value (0.78). The current knowledge provides an efficient platform for N. caninum control through on-site diagnosis of infected cattle.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ragab M. Fereig
- National Research Center for Protozoan Diseases, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Hokkaido 080-8555, Japan; (R.M.F.); (H.H.A.)
- Department of Animal Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, South Valley University, Qena 83523, Egypt
| | - Hanan H. Abdelbaky
- National Research Center for Protozoan Diseases, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Hokkaido 080-8555, Japan; (R.M.F.); (H.H.A.)
| | - Yoshifumi Nishikawa
- National Research Center for Protozoan Diseases, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Hokkaido 080-8555, Japan; (R.M.F.); (H.H.A.)
- Correspondence:
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23
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Santman-Berends IMGA, Mars MH, Weber MF, van Duijn L, Waldeck HWF, Biesheuvel MM, van den Brink KMJA, Dijkstra T, Hodnik JJ, Strain SAJ, de Roo A, Veldhuis AMB, van Schaik G. Control and Eradication Programs for Non-EU Regulated Cattle Diseases in the Netherlands. Front Vet Sci 2021; 8:670419. [PMID: 34490388 PMCID: PMC8418201 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2021.670419] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2021] [Accepted: 07/26/2021] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Within the European Union, infectious cattle diseases are categorized in the Animal Health Law. No strict EU regulations exist for control, evidence of disease freedom, and surveillance of diseases listed other than categories A and B. Consequently, EU member states follow their own varying strategies for disease control. The aim of this study was to provide an overview of the control and eradication programs (CPs) for six cattle diseases in the Netherlands between 2009 and 2019 and to highlight characteristics specific to the Dutch situation. All of these diseases were listed as C,D or E in the New Animal Health Law. In the Netherlands, CPs are in place for six endemic cattle diseases: bovine viral diarrhea, infectious bovine rhinotracheitis, salmonellosis, paratuberculosis, leptospirosis, and neosporosis. These CPs have been tailored to the specific situation in the Netherlands: a country with a high cattle density, a high rate of animal movements, a strong dependence on export of dairy products, and a high-quality data-infrastructure. The latter specifically applies to the dairy sector, which is the leading cattle sector in the Netherlands. When a herd enters a CP, generally the within-herd prevalence of infection is estimated in an initial assessment. The outcome creates awareness of the infection status of a herd and also provides an indication of the costs and time to achieve the preferred herd status. Subsequently, the herd enrolls in the control phase of the CP to, if present, eliminate the infection from a herd and a surveillance phase to substantiate the free or low prevalence status over time. The high-quality data infrastructure that results in complete and centrally registered census data on cattle movements provides the opportunity to design CPs while minimizing administrative efforts for the farmer. In the CPs, mostly routinely collected samples are used for surveillance. Where possible, requests for proof of the herd status are sent automatically. Automated detection of risk factors for introduction of new animals originating from a herd without the preferred herd status i.e., free or unsuspected, is in place using centrally registered data. The presented overview may inspire countries that want to develop cost-effective CPs for endemic diseases that are not (yet) regulated at EU level.
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Affiliation(s)
- I M G A Santman-Berends
- Department of Research and Development, Royal GD, Deventer, Netherlands.,Department of Population Health Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - M H Mars
- Department of Research and Development, Royal GD, Deventer, Netherlands
| | - M F Weber
- Department of Population Health Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands.,Department of Cattle Health, Royal GD, Deventer, Netherlands
| | - L van Duijn
- Department of Cattle Health, Royal GD, Deventer, Netherlands
| | - H W F Waldeck
- Department of Cattle Health, Royal GD, Deventer, Netherlands
| | - M M Biesheuvel
- Department of Production Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | | | - T Dijkstra
- Department of Cattle Health, Royal GD, Deventer, Netherlands
| | - J J Hodnik
- Veterinary Faculty, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - S A J Strain
- Animal Health and Welfare Northern Ireland, Dungannon, United Kingdom
| | - A de Roo
- Department of Cattle Health, Royal GD, Deventer, Netherlands
| | - A M B Veldhuis
- Department of Research and Development, Royal GD, Deventer, Netherlands
| | - G van Schaik
- Department of Research and Development, Royal GD, Deventer, Netherlands.,Department of Population Health Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands
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24
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Ferreira RF, Dittrich RL, Zimmermann IB, Ljubic BB, Mrljak V, Eckersall PD. Differential acute-phase protein responses in dogs seropositive or seronegative for Neospora caninum. Parasitol Res 2021; 120:3529-3535. [PMID: 34427786 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-021-07277-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2021] [Accepted: 08/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Neospora caninum is one of the most prevalent Apicomplexa parasites that causes abortion in cattle, as it infects dogs as its definitive host, causing subclinical disease or active neosporosis, marked by meningoencephalitis, and myopathies with muscle and neuromuscular signs of disease. This study aimed to evaluate the acute phase protein response in dogs seropositive and seronegative for N. caninum. Serum samples of 72 dogs were tested by an immunofluorescence antibody test using N. caninum NC-1 strain, and the study population was divided into four groups: symptomatic - muscular and/or neuromuscular signs - and seropositive (n = 16); symptomatic and seronegative (n = 9); asymptomatic and seropositive (n = 34); and asymptomatic and seronegative (n = 13). C-reactive protein (CRP) was measured via immunoturbidimetric assay and serum haptoglobin (Hp) via hemoglobin-binding capacity assay. In the symptomatic groups, seropositive dogs had higher levels of Hp, but not CRP, while seronegative dogs had higher CRP levels. There was no difference in CRP concentration in asymptomatic dogs. Dogs with neuromuscular signs had higher concentrations for Hp in the group seropositive. Hp concentration did not differ between dogs seropositive and seronegative dogs for each group. Serum Hp and CRP could not sufficiently alone flag subclinical infections. Measurement of CRP and Hp concentrations could be clinically valuable to the diagnosis of neurological diseases, and their relative change may indicate the stage of the infection, although their sole use is not able to support the diagnosis of canine neosporosis. Further studies are encouraged to evaluate the specific dynamics of acute phase proteins in canine neosporosis. Serum samples of 72 dogs were tested by an immunofluorescence antibody test using N. caninum NC-1 strain, and the study population was divided into four groups: (1) dogs with muscular and/or neuromuscular signs and seropositive for N. caninum; (2) dogs with muscular and/or neuromuscular signs and seronegative for N. caninum; (3) dogs seropositive for N. caninum with no neuromuscular signs; and (4) healthy dogs and seronegative for N. caninum. The study evaluated if N. caninum infection could have pathophysiological changes activating the acute phase response and an increase in the concentration of acute phase proteins in serum.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rafaela Furioso Ferreira
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia.
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Federal University of Paraná, Curitiba, Brazil.
| | | | | | | | - Vladimir Mrljak
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Peter David Eckersall
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
- Institute of Biodiversity, Animal Health and Comparative Medicine, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, G61 1QH, UK
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25
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Serological Survey on the Occurrence of Rickettsia spp., Neospora caninum, Bartonella henselae and Toxoplasma gondii in Cats from Tuscany (Central Italy). Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:ani11061842. [PMID: 34205734 PMCID: PMC8234574 DOI: 10.3390/ani11061842] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2021] [Revised: 06/16/2021] [Accepted: 06/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Domestic and stray cats are frequently infected by pathogens, some of which are zoonotic. The occurrence of microorganisms such as Bartonella henselae and Toxoplasma gondii, even though they are well known, could be underestimated because they are not regularly investigated in cats. Other pathogens, such as Neospora caninum and Rickettsia spp., have not been largely studied in feline populations and data about their spreading in Italian cats are very scanty. Monitoring of domestic and stray cats for these pathogens is important to evaluate the health status of the animals, but also, regarding B. henselae, Rickettsia spp. and T. gondii, from a One Health perspective. Abstract Asymptomatic cats often harbor pathogens, some of which have not been largely investigated in feline populations. The aim of this study was to evaluate the occurrence of antibodies against Rickettsia conorii, Rickettsia felis, Rickettsia typhi, Neospora caninum, Bartonella henselae and Toxoplasma gondii in cats from Tuscany. Ninety-five blood serum samples, previously collected, were analyzed by indirect immunofluorescence assay. Fifty-six (58.94%) cats had antibodies to at least one investigated pathogen: 28 (29.47%) cats were positive for B. henselae, 17 (17.89%) for R. felis, 14 (14.73%) for R. conorii, 14 (14.73%) for T. gondii, 2 (2.1%) for N. caninum. No cats were positive for R. typhi. Positive reactions to two or more pathogens were detected in 18 (18.94%) cats. The occurrence of antibodies against these microorganisms suggests that cats, even though asymptomatic, may be infected by pathogens, often zoonotic, and thus may be a source of infections for other animals and humans.
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Serological investigation of protozoan pathogens (Trypanosoma cruzi, Toxoplasma gondii and Neospora caninum) in opossums from southern Brazil. Vet Parasitol Reg Stud Reports 2021; 24:100546. [PMID: 34024364 DOI: 10.1016/j.vprsr.2021.100546] [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: 09/14/2020] [Revised: 02/06/2021] [Accepted: 02/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
South American opossums of the order Didelphimorphia are considered sentinels for zoonotic infections and environmental diseases, such as for Chagas disease caused by Trypanosoma cruzi. Nevertheless, there is a paucity of data regarding protozoan diseases such Toxoplasma gondii and Neospora caninum in Neotropical marsupials; despite these pathogens have been considered threats to some marsupial species. The aim of this study was to determine whether Didelphis albiventris and Philander frenatus opossums from southern Brazil had been previously exposed to T. cruzi, T. gondii or N. caninum. Opossum samples were obtained by live-trapping of free-ranging animals and collection at wildlife rehabilitation centers in Rio Grande do Sul (RS) state, Brazil. The detection of anti-T. cruzi and anti-T. gondii antibodies was performed by indirect hemagglutination and anti-N. caninum antibodies by competitive enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. In total, samples were collected from 76 marsupials from nine municipalities in RS state, including 69 D. albiventris (white-eared opossum), and seven were P. frenatus (southern four-eyed opossum). For T. cruzi, 11% were seropositive, and for T. gondii 26% were seropositive. None of the marsupials sampled here were seropositive for N. caninum. Risk factor analysis showed that free-living animals were about five-fold more likely to be infected by T. gondii than were rescued animals. Our study showed the exposure of Neotropical marsupials (D. albiventris and P. frenatus) to protozoan pathogens T. cruzi and T. gondii, while no evidence of N. caninum exposure was found. The set of results presented here may have an effect on ecology and conservation of the studied species and may also indicate possible sentinels of these pathogen circulation.
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27
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Romanelli PR, Matos AMRND, Pinto-Ferreira F, Caldart ET, Carmo JLMD, Santos NGD, Silva NRD, Loeffler BB, Sanches JFZ, Francisquini LS, Romanelli MS, Minho AP, Cavalcante ACR, Pierre EJ, Sobezak CC, Freire RL, Mitsuka-Breganó R, Navarro IT. Anti-Toxoplasma gondii and anti-Neospora caninum antibodies in sheep from Paraná state, South Brazil: prevalence and associated factors. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2021; 30:e023220. [PMID: 33909837 DOI: 10.1590/s1984-29612021021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2020] [Accepted: 02/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to evaluate the seroprevalence and factors associated with the presence of anti-Toxoplasma gondii and anti-Neospora caninum antibodies in sheep from Paraná state. The detection of antibodies for T. gondii and N. caninum was performed by homemade and commercial indirect ELISA, respectively. Multiple logistic regression analysis was used to verify the factors associated with the seroprevalence. Antibodies anti-T. gondii and anti-N. caninum were observed in 42.7% and in 17.6% of the animals, respectively. The protective factors associated to seropositive were "some level of confinement" (full or semi-extensive confinement) (OR=0.53) for T. gondii and "use of skilled labor" (OR=0.64) for N. caninum. The risk factors were "presence of cats" (OR=1.75) for T. gondii and "feeding of dogs with sheep placental remains" (OR=1.79) for N. caninum. In addition, to presenting a significant and simultaneous seroprevalence for both agents (9.9% of the animals), the results also indicate that deficiencies in management and environmental sanitation, the presence of reservoirs, and types of exploitation enhance the seropositivity. Thus, studies like this might support sanitary programs and public policies for the prevention of T. gondii and N. caninum in the sheep herds of Paraná state.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paulo Roberto Romanelli
- Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva, Universidade Estadual de Londrina - UEL, PR, Brasil
| | | | - Fernanda Pinto-Ferreira
- Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva, Universidade Estadual de Londrina - UEL, PR, Brasil
| | - Eloiza Teles Caldart
- Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva, Universidade Estadual de Londrina - UEL, PR, Brasil
| | - João Lucas Moura do Carmo
- Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva, Universidade Estadual de Londrina - UEL, PR, Brasil
| | - Nathalia Gomes Dos Santos
- Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva, Universidade Estadual de Londrina - UEL, PR, Brasil
| | - Natalia Ribeiro da Silva
- Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva, Universidade Estadual de Londrina - UEL, PR, Brasil
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Roberta Lemos Freire
- Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva, Universidade Estadual de Londrina - UEL, PR, Brasil
| | - Regina Mitsuka-Breganó
- Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva, Universidade Estadual de Londrina - UEL, PR, Brasil
| | - Italmar Teodorico Navarro
- Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva, Universidade Estadual de Londrina - UEL, PR, Brasil
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28
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Yu G, Liang W, Yang Q, Wang J, Wang Y, Zhang T, Zhang X, Fan H, Zhao P, Cao L, Dong J. Immune Protective Evaluation Elicited by DNA Vaccination With Neospora caninum Dense Granules Proteins in Mice. Front Vet Sci 2021; 8:638067. [PMID: 33718474 PMCID: PMC7953147 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2021.638067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2020] [Accepted: 01/11/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Neospora caninum, an obligate intracellular protozoan, is the major cause for neosporosis and brings serious economic losses to cattle breeding industries worldwide. After invasion, dense granules proteins are abundantly secreted and being important components of parasitophorous vacuole and intravacuolar network where N. caninum survives and replicates. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the protective immunity induced by DNA vaccines with genes encoding dense granules proteins 1 (GRA1), GRA4, GRA9, GRA14, GRA17, and GRA23 against N. caninum tachyzoites in BALB/C mice. Eukaryotic expressing plasmids of pcNcGRAs were constructed and the mice were intramuscularly immunized with pcNcGRAs followed by challenging infection with lethal doses of N. caninum. Immune responses were evaluated through monitoring the levels of serum antibodies, measurement of lymphocyte proliferation, and secretion of cytokines. Immune protection assays were carried out through monitoring survival time, body weight, and parasite burden in the brains. Results showed that all the pcNcGRA DNA vaccines could trigger remarkably specific humoral and cellular responses, with higher levels of IgG and IgG2a antibodies as well as obviously increased secretion of Th1-type IFN-γ cytokines. The immune protective efficacy revealed that pcNcGRA4, pcNcGRA14, and pcNcGRA17 DNA vaccines could individually increase the survival rate to 50, 37.5, and 25% in comparison with 0% in the control group; prolong the survival time more than 20.88 ± 11.12, 18.88 ± 10.83, and 16.63 ± 10.66 days compared with the control group of 4 ± 1.31 days; and decrease parasite burden in the brains to 297.63 ± 83.77, 471.5 ± 110.74, and 592.13 ± 102.2 parasites/100 ng comparing with 1221.36 ± 269.59 parasites/100 ng in the control group. These findings indicated that NcGRA4, NcGRA14, and NcGRA17 are potential vaccine candidates; NcGRA4 displayed better performance in immune protective efficacy and could be further combined with other advantageous antigens applied to the development of safe and effective DNA vaccines against N. caninum.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guili Yu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Marine Biological Resources and Environment, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Marine Pharmaceutical Compound Screening, Co-Innovation Center of Jiangsu Marine Bio-industry Technology, Jiangsu Ocean University, Lianyungang, China
| | - Wei Liang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, the Second People's Hospital of Lianyungang City, Lianyungang, China
| | - Qiankun Yang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Marine Biological Resources and Environment, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Marine Pharmaceutical Compound Screening, Co-Innovation Center of Jiangsu Marine Bio-industry Technology, Jiangsu Ocean University, Lianyungang, China
| | - Jinxin Wang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Marine Biological Resources and Environment, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Marine Pharmaceutical Compound Screening, Co-Innovation Center of Jiangsu Marine Bio-industry Technology, Jiangsu Ocean University, Lianyungang, China
| | - Yu Wang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Marine Biological Resources and Environment, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Marine Pharmaceutical Compound Screening, Co-Innovation Center of Jiangsu Marine Bio-industry Technology, Jiangsu Ocean University, Lianyungang, China
| | - Tianmeng Zhang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Marine Biological Resources and Environment, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Marine Pharmaceutical Compound Screening, Co-Innovation Center of Jiangsu Marine Bio-industry Technology, Jiangsu Ocean University, Lianyungang, China
| | - Xiao Zhang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Marine Biological Resources and Environment, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Marine Pharmaceutical Compound Screening, Co-Innovation Center of Jiangsu Marine Bio-industry Technology, Jiangsu Ocean University, Lianyungang, China
| | - Hui Fan
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Marine Biological Resources and Environment, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Marine Pharmaceutical Compound Screening, Co-Innovation Center of Jiangsu Marine Bio-industry Technology, Jiangsu Ocean University, Lianyungang, China
| | - Panpan Zhao
- Department of Parasite, Jilin Academy of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Medicine, Changchun, China.,Key Laboratory of Zoonosis, Ministry of Education, College of Veterinary Medicine, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Lili Cao
- Department of Parasite, Jilin Academy of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Medicine, Changchun, China.,Key Laboratory of Zoonosis, Ministry of Education, College of Veterinary Medicine, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Jingquan Dong
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Marine Biological Resources and Environment, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Marine Pharmaceutical Compound Screening, Co-Innovation Center of Jiangsu Marine Bio-industry Technology, Jiangsu Ocean University, Lianyungang, China
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Dong J, Zhang N, Zhao P, Li J, Cao L, Wang X, Li X, Yang J, Zhang X, Gong P. Disruption of Dense Granular Protein 2 (GRA2) Decreases the Virulence of Neospora caninum. Front Vet Sci 2021; 8:634612. [PMID: 33681332 PMCID: PMC7933011 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2021.634612] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2020] [Accepted: 01/11/2021] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Neospora caninum causes abortions in cattle and nervous system dysfunction in dogs. Dense granular proteins (GRAs) play important roles in virulence; however, studies on NcGRA functions are limited. In the present study, multiple methods, including site-directed mutagenesis; CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing; Western blotting; quantitative polymerase chain reaction; confocal microscopy; plaque, invasion, egress, and replication assays; animal assays of survival rate and parasite burden; and hematoxylin-eosin staining, were used to characterize the NcGRA2 protein, construct an NcGRA2 gene disruption (ΔNcGRA2) strain, and explore its virulence in vivo and vitro. The results showed that NcGRA2 shared 31.31% homology with TgGRA2 and was colocalized with NcGRA6 at the posterior end of tachyzoites and the intravacuolar network of parasitophorous vacuoles (PVs). Cell fractionation analysis showed that NcGRA2 behaved as a transmembrane and membrane-coupled protein. The ΔNcGRA2 strain was constructed by coelectroporation of the NcGRA2-targeting CRISPR plasmid (pNc-SAG1-Cas9:U6-SgGRA2) and DHFR-TS DNA donor and verified at the protein, genome, and transcriptional levels and by immunofluorescence localization analysis. The in vitro virulence results showed that the ΔNcGRA2 strain displayed smaller plaques, similar invasion and egress abilities, and slower intracellular growth. The in vivo virulence results showed a prolonged survival time, lower parasite burden, and mild histopathological changes. Overall, the present study indicates that NcGRA2, as a dense granular protein, forms the intravacuolar network structure of PVs and weakens N. caninum virulence by slowing proliferation. These data highlight the roles of NcGRA2 and provide a foundation for research on other protein functions in N. caninum.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingquan Dong
- Key Laboratory of Zoonosis, College of Veterinary Medicine, Jilin University, Changchun, China.,Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Marine Biological Resources and Environment, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Marine Pharmaceutical Compound Screening, Co-Innovation Center of Jiangsu Marine Bio-industry Technology, Jiangsu Ocean University, Lianyungang, China
| | - Nan Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Zoonosis, College of Veterinary Medicine, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Panpan Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Zoonosis, College of Veterinary Medicine, Jilin University, Changchun, China.,Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Marine Biological Resources and Environment, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Marine Pharmaceutical Compound Screening, Co-Innovation Center of Jiangsu Marine Bio-industry Technology, Jiangsu Ocean University, Lianyungang, China
| | - Jianhua Li
- Key Laboratory of Zoonosis, College of Veterinary Medicine, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Lili Cao
- Key Laboratory of Zoonosis, College of Veterinary Medicine, Jilin University, Changchun, China.,Department of Parasite, Jilin Academy of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Medicine, Changchun, China
| | - Xiaocen Wang
- Key Laboratory of Zoonosis, College of Veterinary Medicine, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Xin Li
- Key Laboratory of Zoonosis, College of Veterinary Medicine, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Ju Yang
- Key Laboratory of Zoonosis, College of Veterinary Medicine, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Xichen Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Zoonosis, College of Veterinary Medicine, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Pengtao Gong
- Key Laboratory of Zoonosis, College of Veterinary Medicine, Jilin University, Changchun, China
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30
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Dong J, Zhang N, Zhao P, Li J, Wang X, Li X, Gong P, Zhang X. GRA12, a novel dense granule protein from Neospora caninum. Parasitol Int 2020; 81:102268. [PMID: 33310071 DOI: 10.1016/j.parint.2020.102268] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2020] [Revised: 12/04/2020] [Accepted: 12/06/2020] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Neospora caninum, an obligate intracellular parasite of the phylum Apicomplexa, is a major cause of abortion in cattle. After invasion, tachyzoites can reside in the parasitophorous vacuole (PV) and ingest nutrition through the intravacuolar network (IVN). Secreted dense granule proteins of N. caninum (NcGRAs) may play important roles in maintaining the structures of the PV and IVN. In this study, we predicted a NcGRA12 gene; aligned it with Toxoplasma gondii GRA12 for homology analysis; and analyzed the ORF, signal peptide and transmembrane domain. Then, we cloned the NcGRA12 gene, expressed the NcGRA12 protein, prepared polyclonal antibodies, and carried out colocalization analysis of NcGRA12 with NcGRA6 in extracellular tachyzoites and intracellular PVs using an immunofluorescence assay (IFA). Finally, we determined the solubility of the NcGRA12 protein. The results showed that NcGRA12 shared 59.13% nucleotide homology and 44.9% amino acid homology with TgGRA12. There was no predicted signal peptide or transmembrane domain. IFA data of extracellular tachyzoites showed that the NcGRA12 protein was secreted by the apical organ and located at the posterior end of tachyzoites, which was consistent with TgGRA12. IFA data of intracellular PVs identified NcGRA12 in the IVN membranes. Moreover, NcGRA12 could colocalize with NcGRA6 in intracellular PVs but not extracellular tachyzoites. Solubility analysis showed that NcGRA12 existed in soluble and membrane-related forms in the PV. Overall, we provide the first report of the novel NcGRA12 protein and verify that it is associated with the IVN membranes of PVs in N. caninum. These data lay a foundation for further research into the function of NcGRA12.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingquan Dong
- Key Laboratory of Zoonosis, College of Veterinary Medicine, Jilin University, Changchun 130062, China; Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Marine Biological Resources and Environment, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Marine Pharmaceutical Compound Screening, Co-Innovation Center of Jiangsu Marine Bio-industry Technology, Jiangsu Ocean University, Lianyungang 222005, China
| | - Nan Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Zoonosis, College of Veterinary Medicine, Jilin University, Changchun 130062, China
| | - Panpan Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Zoonosis, College of Veterinary Medicine, Jilin University, Changchun 130062, China; Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Marine Biological Resources and Environment, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Marine Pharmaceutical Compound Screening, Co-Innovation Center of Jiangsu Marine Bio-industry Technology, Jiangsu Ocean University, Lianyungang 222005, China
| | - Jianhua Li
- Key Laboratory of Zoonosis, College of Veterinary Medicine, Jilin University, Changchun 130062, China
| | - Xiaocen Wang
- Key Laboratory of Zoonosis, College of Veterinary Medicine, Jilin University, Changchun 130062, China
| | - Xin Li
- Key Laboratory of Zoonosis, College of Veterinary Medicine, Jilin University, Changchun 130062, China
| | - Pengtao Gong
- Key Laboratory of Zoonosis, College of Veterinary Medicine, Jilin University, Changchun 130062, China.
| | - Xichen Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Zoonosis, College of Veterinary Medicine, Jilin University, Changchun 130062, China.
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31
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Wang F, Wang X, Song X, Ma L, Yang J, Liu Q, Liu J. Function of Neospora caninum dense granule protein 7 in innate immunity in mice. Parasitol Res 2020; 120:197-207. [PMID: 33164154 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-020-06961-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2020] [Accepted: 11/02/2020] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
The intracellular parasite Neospora caninum can parasitize all nucleated cells of the host. Dense granule proteins (GRAs) secreted by dense granules are an important material involved in the formation of parasitophorous vacuoles (PVs), which facilitate parasite survival and replication in host cells. Due to the secretory and immune properties of NcGRA7, it is considered to be a promising serodiagnosis marker and an effective neosporosis vaccine candidate. However, the intracellular regulatory mechanisms involved in NcGRA7-induced host responses have rarely been examined. Here, we used the CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing system to obtain a NcGRA7 knockout strain (ΔNcGRA7) and a NcGRA7 complementary strain (iΔNcGRA7) to study their function. We found that ΔNcGRA7 exhibited slower growth in vitro and weakened virulence in mice compared with Nc1 and iΔNcGRA7. All parasite strains can stimulate host immune cells to produce IFN-γ, and the amount of IFN-γ production stimulated by Nc1 was significantly higher than that stimulated by ΔNcGRA7. The transcription levels of the cellular immune factors GBP1, GBP2, IRGa6, and IRGb6 were significantly higher after stimulation with ΔNcGRA7 parasites than after stimulation with Nc1. Furthermore, ΔNcGRA7 infection resulted in greater IRGa6 recruitment to the PVM than Nc1 infection. ΔNcGRA7 parasites were more easily cleared by macrophages than Nc1 parasites. Collectively, these results showed that NcGRA7 plays an important role in regulating the immune factors of mice and the aggregation of IRGa6 at the PVM, which affects the pathogenicity of N. caninum.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fei Wang
- National Animal Protozoa Laboratory, College of Veterinary Medicine, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, People's Republic of China
| | - Xianmei Wang
- National Animal Protozoa Laboratory, College of Veterinary Medicine, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, People's Republic of China
| | - Xingju Song
- National Animal Protozoa Laboratory, College of Veterinary Medicine, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, People's Republic of China
| | - Lei Ma
- National Animal Protozoa Laboratory, College of Veterinary Medicine, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, People's Republic of China
| | - Jing Yang
- National Animal Protozoa Laboratory, College of Veterinary Medicine, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, People's Republic of China
| | - Qun Liu
- National Animal Protozoa Laboratory, College of Veterinary Medicine, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, People's Republic of China.,Key Laboratory of Animal Epidemiology of the Ministry of Agriculture, College of Veterinary Medicine, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, People's Republic of China
| | - Jing Liu
- National Animal Protozoa Laboratory, College of Veterinary Medicine, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, People's Republic of China. .,Key Laboratory of Animal Epidemiology of the Ministry of Agriculture, College of Veterinary Medicine, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, People's Republic of China.
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32
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Zhao P, Zhang N, Dong J, Li J, Wang X, Li X, Li X, Yang J, Gong P, Zhang X. Effects of Dense Granular Protein 6 (GRA6) Disruption on Neospora caninum Virulence. Front Vet Sci 2020; 7:562730. [PMID: 33195538 PMCID: PMC7536263 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2020.562730] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2020] [Accepted: 08/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Neospora caninum (N. caninum) is a major cause of abortions in cattle. During its invasion of host cells, a parasitophorous vacuole (PV) is formed, accompanied by an intravacuolar network (IVN). The IVN takes part in parasite ingesting of nutrients from hosts. The dense granular proteins of N. caninum (NcGRAs) play a key role in forming the PV and the IVN, which may influence virulence during N. caninum invasion. The present study aimed to explore the biological function of NcGRA6 in N. caninum by disrupting the NcGRA6 gene in the Nc-1 strain. We successfully constructed an NcGRA6-targeting CRISPR plasmid (pNc-SAG1-Cas9:U6-SgGRA6) and amplified the DHFR-TS DNA donor. The NcGRA6 knockout mutation (ΔNcGRA6) was generated by co-electroporation of the pNc-SAG1::CAS9-U6::sgGRA6 plasmid and the DHFR-TS DNA donor into the Nc-1 strain, which was then cultured under pyrimethamine selection pressure. The ΔNcGRA6 mutation was further verified by identification of NcGRA6 gene disruption using PCR, measurement of NcGRA6 gene transcription levels using qPCR, assessment of NcGRA6 protein expression levels using western blotting, and observation of NcGRA6 protein location using immunofluorescence and immunoelectron microscopy. The results of in vitro virulence assays, including plaque, invasion, egress, and replication assays, showed that the ΔNcGRA6 strain had smaller plaques, similar invasion and egress ability, and slower intracellular replication ability than the Nc-1 strain. The results of in vivo virulence assays showed that the ΔNcGRA6 strain exhibited reduced virulence and improved survival ability in mice compared with the Nc-1 strain. The parasite burden in ΔNcGRA6 strain-infected mouse tissues, including the heart, brain, liver, spleen, lung, and kidney, was significantly reduced compared with that in mice infected with the Nc-1 strain. These data suggest that we successfully constructed a ΔNcGRA6 strain and verify that NcGRA6 is a critical virulence factor. NcGRA6 gene disruption can slow down N. caninum proliferation and lower the pathogenicity to hosts. Our findings provide a foundation for future research on other targeted N. caninum protein functions and may help in exploring the interaction mechanisms between parasites and hosts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Panpan Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Zoonosis, College of Veterinary Medicine, Jilin University, Changchun, China.,Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Marine Biological Resources and Environment, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Marine Pharmaceutical Compound Screening, Co-Innovation Center of Jiangsu Marine Bio-industry Technology, Jiangsu Ocean University, Lianyungang, China
| | - Nan Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Zoonosis, College of Veterinary Medicine, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Jingquan Dong
- Key Laboratory of Zoonosis, College of Veterinary Medicine, Jilin University, Changchun, China.,Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Marine Biological Resources and Environment, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Marine Pharmaceutical Compound Screening, Co-Innovation Center of Jiangsu Marine Bio-industry Technology, Jiangsu Ocean University, Lianyungang, China
| | - Jianhua Li
- Key Laboratory of Zoonosis, College of Veterinary Medicine, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Xiaocen Wang
- Key Laboratory of Zoonosis, College of Veterinary Medicine, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Xin Li
- Key Laboratory of Zoonosis, College of Veterinary Medicine, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Xiangrui Li
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, China
| | - Ju Yang
- Key Laboratory of Zoonosis, College of Veterinary Medicine, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Pengtao Gong
- Key Laboratory of Zoonosis, College of Veterinary Medicine, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Xichen Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Zoonosis, College of Veterinary Medicine, Jilin University, Changchun, China
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Curtis B, Harris A, Ullal T, Schaffer PA, Muñoz Gutiérrez J. Disseminated Neospora caninum infection in a dog with severe colitis. J Vet Diagn Invest 2020; 32:923-927. [PMID: 32954990 DOI: 10.1177/1040638720958467] [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] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
A 12-y-old spayed female Schipperke dog with a previous diagnosis of inflammatory bowel disease was presented with a 2-mo history of severe colitis. The patient's condition progressed to hepatopathy, pneumonia, and dermatitis following management with prednisolone and dexamethasone sodium phosphate. Colonic biopsies identified severe necrosuppurative colitis with free and intracellular parasitic zoites. Postmortem examination confirmed extensive chronic-active ulcerative colitis, severe acute necrotizing hepatitis and splenitis, interstitial pneumonia, ulcerative dermatitis, myelitis (bone marrow), and mild meningoencephalitis with variable numbers of intracellular and extracellular protozoal zoites. PCR on samples of fresh colon was positive for Neospora caninum. Immunohistochemistry identified N. caninum tachyzoites in sections of colon, and a single tissue cyst in sections of brain. Administration of immunosuppressive drugs may have allowed systemic dissemination of Neospora from the intestinal tract.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin Curtis
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Pathology, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO
| | - Adam Harris
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Pathology, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO
| | - Tarini Ullal
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Veterinary Teaching Hospital, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO
| | - Paula A Schaffer
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Pathology, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO
| | - Juan Muñoz Gutiérrez
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Pathology, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO
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Toscan G, Cezar A, Bräunig P, Pereira G, Vargas A, Sangioni L, Gonçalves P, Vogel F. Neospora caninum DNA distribution in tissues of gerbils as experimental models of chronic neosporosis. ARQ BRAS MED VET ZOO 2020. [DOI: 10.1590/1678-4162-11603] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
ABSTRACT Neospora caninum is the main etiologic agent of neosporosis in domestic animals and its pathogenesis comprises two characteristic phases: acute and chronic. Rodents are used as experimental models to mimic acute and chronic bovine neosporosis. In this study, we inoculated a total of 27 female gerbils, with different doses of N. caninum tachyzoites aiming to induce chronic disease. DNA was extracted from different organs of each animal after spontaneous death or euthanasia. Encephalic tissues were submitted to a highly sensitive real time PCR aiming to detect chronically infected animals. All the other samples were submitted to standard PCR. A total of 11 gerbils died due to acute neosporosis, as confirmed by N. caninum DNA detection in organs. 5x103 tachyzoites/mL of N. caninum was the dosage of antigen that can induce chronic infection in gerbils. In the encephalon sections of some animals that showed clinical signs of persistent infection, we found 70% positive for the anterior encephalon section, suggesting this area as preferential for cyst formation. Therefore, we determined the doses of tachyzoites that cause acute or chronic infection and detection of positive tissues, preferably, systemic organs during acute and encephalon in chronic phases.
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Affiliation(s)
- G. Toscan
- Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, Brazil
| | - A.S. Cezar
- Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, Brazil; Universidade Regional do Noroeste do Estado do Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - P. Bräunig
- Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, Brazil
| | | | | | | | - P.B.D. Gonçalves
- Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, Brazil; Universidade Federal do Pampa, Brazil
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35
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Elsheikha HM, Alkurashi M, Palfreman S, Castellanos M, Kong K, Ning E, Elsaied NA, Geraki K, MacNaughtan W. Impact of Neospora caninum Infection on the Bioenergetics and Transcriptome of Cerebrovascular Endothelial Cells. Pathogens 2020; 9:pathogens9090710. [PMID: 32872199 PMCID: PMC7559149 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens9090710] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2020] [Revised: 08/24/2020] [Accepted: 08/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
In this work, the effects of the protozoan Neospora caninum on the bioenergetics, chemical composition, and elemental content of human brain microvascular endothelial cells (hBMECs) were investigated. We showed that N. caninum can impair cell mitochondrial (Mt) function and causes an arrest in host cell cycling at S and G2 phases. These adverse effects were also associated with altered expression of genes involved in Mt energy metabolism, suggesting Mt dysfunction caused by N. caninum infection. Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy analysis of hBMECs revealed alterations in the FTIR bands as a function of infection, where infected cells showed alterations in the absorption bands of lipid (2924 cm−1), amide I protein (1649 cm−1), amide II protein (1537 cm−1), nucleic acids and carbohydrates (1092 cm−1, 1047 cm−1, and 939 cm−1). By using quantitative synchrotron radiation X-ray fluorescence (μSR-XRF) imaging and quantification of the trace elements Zn, Cu and Fe, we detected an increase in the levels of Zn and Cu from 3 to 24 h post infection (hpi) in infected cells compared to control cells, but there were no changes in the level of Fe. We also used Affymetrix array technology to investigate the global alteration in gene expression of hBMECs and rat brain microvascular endothelial cells (rBMVECs) in response to N. caninum infection at 24 hpi. The result of transcriptome profiling identified differentially expressed genes involved mainly in immune response, lipid metabolism and apoptosis. These data further our understanding of the molecular events that shape the interaction between N. caninum and blood-brain-barrier endothelial cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hany M. Elsheikha
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine and Science, University of Nottingham, Sutton Bonington Campus, Leicestershire LE12 5RD, UK; (M.A.); (S.P.); (N.A.E.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +44-0115-951-6445
| | - Mamdowh Alkurashi
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine and Science, University of Nottingham, Sutton Bonington Campus, Leicestershire LE12 5RD, UK; (M.A.); (S.P.); (N.A.E.)
- Animal Production Department, College of Food and Agricultural Sciences, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Suzy Palfreman
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine and Science, University of Nottingham, Sutton Bonington Campus, Leicestershire LE12 5RD, UK; (M.A.); (S.P.); (N.A.E.)
| | - Marcos Castellanos
- Nottingham Arabidopsis Stock Centre, Division of Plant and Crop Sciences, School of Biosciences, University of Nottingham, Leicestershire LE12 5RD, UK;
| | - Kenny Kong
- School of Physics and Astronomy, University Park, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2RD, UK;
| | - Evita Ning
- Centre for Molecular Nanometrology, Department of Pure and Applied Chemistry, Technology and Innovation Centre, University of Strathclyde, Glasgow G1 1RD, UK;
| | - Nashwa A. Elsaied
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine and Science, University of Nottingham, Sutton Bonington Campus, Leicestershire LE12 5RD, UK; (M.A.); (S.P.); (N.A.E.)
| | | | - William MacNaughtan
- Division of Food, Nutrition and Dietetics, School of Biosciences, University of Nottingham, Sutton Bonington Campus, Loughborough LE12 5RD, UK;
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36
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Calarco L, Ellis J. Species diversity and genome evolution of the pathogenic protozoan parasite, Neospora caninum. INFECTION GENETICS AND EVOLUTION 2020; 84:104444. [PMID: 32619639 DOI: 10.1016/j.meegid.2020.104444] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2020] [Revised: 04/16/2020] [Accepted: 06/23/2020] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Neospora caninum is a cyst-forming coccidian parasite of veterinary and economical significance, affecting dairy and beef cattle industries on a global scale. Comparative studies suggest that N. caninum consists of a globally dispersed, diverse population of lineages, distinguished by their geographical origin, broad host range, and phenotypic features. This viewpoint is however changing. While intraspecies diversity, and more specifically pathogenic variability, has been experimentally demonstrated in a myriad of studies, the underlying contributors and sources responsible for such diversity have remained nebulous. However, recent large-scale sequence and bioinformatics studies have aided in revealing intrinsic genetic differences distinguishing isolates of this species, that await further characterisation as causative links to virulence and pathogenicity. Furthermore, progress on N. caninum research as a non-model organism is hindered by a lack of robust, annotated genomic, transcriptomic, and proteomic data for the species, especially compared to other thoroughly studied Apicomplexa such as Toxoplasma gondii and Plasmodium species. This review explores the current body of knowledge on intra-species diversity within N. caninum. This includes the contribution of sequence variants in both coding and non-coding regions, the presence of genome polymorphic hotspots, and the identification of non-synonymous mutations. The implications of such diversity on important parasite phenotypes such as pathogenicity and population structure are also discussed. Lastly, the identification of potential virulence factors from both in-silico and next generation sequencing studies is examined, offering new insights into potential avenues for future research on neosporosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Larissa Calarco
- School of Life Sciences, University of Technology Sydney, PO Box 123, Broadway, NSW 2007, Australia.
| | - John Ellis
- School of Life Sciences, University of Technology Sydney, PO Box 123, Broadway, NSW 2007, Australia
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Besnoitia besnoiti-driven endothelial host cell cycle alteration. Parasitol Res 2020; 119:2563-2577. [PMID: 32548739 PMCID: PMC7366594 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-020-06744-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2020] [Accepted: 06/01/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Besnoitia besnoiti is an important obligate intracellular parasite of cattle which primarily infects host endothelial cells of blood vessels during the acute phase of infection. Similar to the closely related parasite Toxoplasma gondii, B. besnoiti has fast proliferating properties leading to rapid host cell lysis within 24–30 h p.i. in vitro. Some apicomplexan parasites were demonstrated to modulate the host cellular cell cycle to successfully perform their intracellular development. As such, we recently demonstrated that T. gondii tachyzoites induce G2/M arrest accompanied by chromosome missegregation, cell spindle alteration, formation of supernumerary centrosomes, and cytokinesis impairment when infecting primary bovine umbilical vein endothelial cells (BUVEC). Here, we follow a comparative approach by using the same host endothelial cell system for B. besnoiti infections. The current data showed that—in terms of host cell cycle modulation—infections of BUVEC by B. besnoiti tachyzoites indeed differ significantly from those by T. gondii. As such, cyclin expression patterns demonstrated a significant upregulation of cyclin E1 in B. besnoiti–infected BUVEC, thereby indicating parasite-driven host cell stasis at G1-to-S phase transition. In line, the mitotic phase of host cell cycle was not influenced since alterations of chromosome segregation, mitotic spindle formation, and cytokinesis were not observed. In contrast to respective T. gondii–related data, we furthermore found a significant upregulation of histone H3 (S10) phosphorylation in B. besnoiti–infected BUVEC, thereby indicating enhanced chromosome condensation to occur in these cells. In line to altered G1/S-transition, we here additionally showed that subcellular abundance of proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA), a marker for G1 and S phase sub-stages, was affected by B. besnoiti since infected cells showed increased nuclear PCNA levels when compared with that of control cells.
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Abu-Halaweh M, Abo-Shehada MN, Khalil R. Age, gender and climate associations with the seroprevalence of Neospora species infection in horses in Jordan. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2020; 29:e016019. [PMID: 32520089 DOI: 10.1590/s1984-29612020004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2019] [Accepted: 12/16/2019] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
A cross-sectional study was carried out on a sample of 379 horses to determine the seroprevalence of Neospora spp. in Jordan using the indirect fluorescent antibody test. Five variables, namely locality (n=10), climatic zone (n=4), age group (n=3), gender, and breed were tested as risk factors for Neospora-immunoglobulin (Ig)G seropositivity at four cutoff titers (1:50, 1:200, 1:400, and 1:800) using univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses. A total of 122 (32%; 95% CI: 28, 37) sera samples had anti-Neospora-IgG at a cutoff titer of 1:50. Increased Neospora-IgG seropositivity was found in horses in three localities (Madaba, Zarka, and Petra) and was associated with the following variables: cool temperate climate; age >14 years; and female gender. Seropositivity was found among horses from Madaba at all cutoff titers, Zarka at titers >1:200, and Petra at titers <1:200. Cool temperate climate was associated with titers <1:400. Horses aged >14 years were found to be associated with seropositivity at titers ≥1:200. Female gender was associated with high seropositivity at >1:800.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marwan Abu-Halaweh
- Department of Biotechnology and Genetic Engineering, Faculty of Scienctable, Philadelphia University, Jerash, Jordan
| | - Mahmoud N Abo-Shehada
- Faculty of Epidemiology and Population Health, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, University of London, London, UK
| | - Raida Khalil
- Department of Biotechnology and Genetic Engineering, Faculty of Scienctable, Philadelphia University, Jerash, Jordan
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Duarte PO, Oshiro LM, Zimmermann NP, Csordas BG, Dourado DM, Barros JC, Andreotti R. Serological and molecular detection of Neospora caninum and Toxoplasma gondii in human umbilical cord blood and placental tissue samples. Sci Rep 2020; 10:9043. [PMID: 32493968 PMCID: PMC7271125 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-65991-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2019] [Accepted: 05/13/2020] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Neosporosis primarily affects cattle and dogs and is not currently considered a zoonotic disease. Toxoplasmosis is a zoonosis with a worldwide distribution that is asymptomatic in most cases, but when acquired during pregnancy, it can have serious consequences. The seropositivity rates determined by the indirect fluorescent antibody test for Neospora caninum (N. caninum) and Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii) were 24.3% (49 samples) and 26.8% (54 samples), respectively. PCR positivity for N. caninum was observed in two samples of cord blood (1%) using the Nc5 and ITS1 gene, positivity for T. gondii was observed in 16 samples using the primer for the B1 gene (5.5% positivity in cord blood and 2.5% positivity in placental tissue). None of the samples showed structures characteristic of tissue cysts or inflammatory infiltrate on histopathology. Significant associations were observed only between N. caninum seropositivity and the presence of domestic animals (p = 0.039) and presence of dogs (p = 0.038) and between T. gondii seropositivity and basic sanitation (p = 0.04). This study obtained important findings regarding the seroprevalence and molecular detection of N. caninum and T. gondii in pregnant women; however, more studies are necessary to establish a correlation between risk factors and infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pâmella Oliveira Duarte
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Doenças Infecciosas e Parasitárias- Universidade Federal de Mato Grosso do Sul (UFMS), Campo Grande, MS, Brasil
| | - Leandra Marla Oshiro
- Laboratório de Biologia Molecular do Carrapato, Departamento de Sanidade Animal, Embrapa Gado de Corte, Campo Grande, MS, Brasil
| | - Namor Pinheiro Zimmermann
- Professor do Curso de Medicina Veterinária do Centro Universitário da Grande Dourados-UNIGRAN, Dourados, Brasil
| | - Bárbara Guimarães Csordas
- Bolsista de Pós-Doutorado- FUNDAPAM, Laboratório de Biologia Molecular do Carrapato, Departamento de Sanidade Animal, Embrapa Gado de Corte, Campo Grande, MS, Brasil
| | | | | | - Renato Andreotti
- Empresa Brasileira de Pesquisa Agropecuária, Embrapa Gado de Corte, Campo Grande, MS, Brasil.
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Seroprevalence of Neospora caninum Infection in Dog Population Worldwide: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. Acta Parasitol 2020; 65:273-290. [PMID: 31919799 DOI: 10.2478/s11686-019-00163-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2019] [Accepted: 12/18/2019] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Neospora caninum is an obligate intracellular apicomplexan protozoan that causes neurological disorders in dogs. This systematic review and meta-analysis targeted at evaluating the worldwide seroprevalence rate of N. caninum in dogs. METHODS Five electronic databases, including PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Science Direct, and Google Scholar, until December 2018 were thoroughly searched for relevant English language articles. Papers were selected based on inclusion criteria. Data were analyzed in StatsDirect statistical software (version 2.7.9). RESULTS The searching process yielded a total number of 156 papers. The total prevalence (95% confidence intervals) of N. caninum infection in dog population worldwide was measured as 17.14% in data analyses (15.25-19.10). In addition, a significant association was also detected between neosporosis infection in dogs and continent, country, year, WHO regions, sample size and diagnostic method (P < 0.001). CONCLUSION Dogs are a matter of concern to public health officials as a source of N. caninum infection. Therefore, it is of paramount importance to provide comprehensive data and systematically analyze the prevalence of N. caninum infection in dogs. Accordingly, it is recommended that researchers carry out further studies to prevent and control neosporosis among dog population worldwide.
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From Signaling Pathways to Distinct Immune Responses: Key Factors for Establishing or Combating Neospora caninum Infection in Different Susceptible Hosts. Pathogens 2020; 9:pathogens9050384. [PMID: 32429367 PMCID: PMC7281608 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens9050384] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2020] [Revised: 05/12/2020] [Accepted: 05/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
: Neospora caninum is an intracellular protozoan parasite affecting numerous animal species. It induces significant economic losses because of abortion and neonatal abnormalities in cattle. In case of infection, the parasite secretes numerous arsenals to establish a successful infection in the host cell. In the same context but for a different purpose, the host resorts to different strategies to eliminate the invading parasite. During this battle, numerous key factors from both parasite and host sides are produced and interact for the maintaining and vanishing of the infection, respectively. Although several reviews have highlighted the role of different compartments of the immune system against N. caninum infection, each one of them has mostly targeted specific points related to the immune component and animal host. Thus, in the current review, we will focus on effector molecules derived from the host cell or the parasite using a comprehensive survey method from previous reports. According to our knowledge, this is the first review that highlights and discusses immune response at the host cell-parasite molecular interface against N. caninum infection in different susceptible hosts.
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McKenny L, O'Handley R, Kovaliski J, Mutze G, Peacock D, Lanyon S. Evidence of infection with Toxoplasma gondii and Neospora caninum in South Australia: using wild rabbits as a sentinel species. Aust Vet J 2020; 98:380-387. [PMID: 32350856 DOI: 10.1111/avj.12951] [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: 09/10/2019] [Revised: 03/07/2020] [Accepted: 03/23/2020] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to utilise wild rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus) as a sentinel species to study levels of environmental contamination with N. caninum and T. gondii in South Australia, and to examine associations with rainfall, climate and land use. DESIGN Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii), an apicomplexan parasite, causes the clinical disease toxoplasmosis, which can affect sheep as well as humans and many other animals. Neosporosis, the clinical disease caused by closely related Neospora caninum (N. caninum), causes abortions in cattle, with large economic impacts to cattle industries. METHODS Aliquots of wild rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus) serum were obtained from twelve sites across South Australia over a period of eighteen years, with a total of 2114 samples. An in-house Modified Agglutination Test (MAT) was developed, and samples were screened for the specific antibodies against both T.gondii and N. caninum. RESULTS Overall, 9.9% of samples screened for T. gondii tested positive and 6.1% of samples screened for N. caninum tested positive. There was no difference observed in seroprevalence of T.gondii specific antibodies between samples collected throughout summer, autumn, winter or spring. By contrast, a significantly higher (p=0.030) seroprevalence of N. caninum specific antibodies was observed in spring than any other season. T. gondii and N. caninum antibodies were discovered at sites across a broad area of South Australia, indicating these environments maybe infected with both parasites. CONCLUSION Results provide evidence that suggests N. caninum oocysts may have different survival characteristics, such as varying tolerances to low relative humidity, than T. gondii oocysts.
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Affiliation(s)
- L McKenny
- School of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, The University of Adelaide, Roseworthy, South Australia, Australia
| | - R O'Handley
- School of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, The University of Adelaide, Roseworthy, South Australia, Australia
| | - J Kovaliski
- Invasive Species, Biosecurity SA, Primary Industries and Regions SA, Urrbrae, South Australia, Australia
| | - G Mutze
- Invasive Species, Biosecurity SA, Primary Industries and Regions SA, Urrbrae, South Australia, Australia
| | - D Peacock
- School of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, The University of Adelaide, Roseworthy, South Australia, Australia.,Invasive Species, Biosecurity SA, Primary Industries and Regions SA, Urrbrae, South Australia, Australia
| | - S Lanyon
- School of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, The University of Adelaide, Roseworthy, South Australia, Australia
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Lindsay DS, Dubey JP. Neosporosis, Toxoplasmosis, and Sarcocystosis in Ruminants: An Update. Vet Clin North Am Food Anim Pract 2020; 36:205-222. [PMID: 32029185 DOI: 10.1016/j.cvfa.2019.11.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Neospora caninum, Toxoplasma gondii, and Sarcocystis spp. are related Apicomplexan parasites that have 2 hosts in their life cycles. The definitive hosts excrete unsporulated (Neospora caninum, T gondii) or sporulated (Sarcocystis spp.) oocysts in their feces after ingesting tissue cysts from the tissues of ruminant intermediate hosts. These coccidians can cause abortion and neonatal mortality in ruminants. T gondii and Sarcocystis hominis (from cattle) are zoonotic. This article reviews information on the etiology, life cycle, diagnosis, control and prevention of these parasites and the diseases they cause in ruminants.
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Affiliation(s)
- David S Lindsay
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Pathobiology, Center for One Health Research, Virginia Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine, Virginia Tech, 1410 Prices Fork Road, Blacksburg, VA 24061-0342, USA.
| | - J P Dubey
- United States Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Research Service, Beltsville Agricultural Research Center, Building 1001, Beltsville, MD 20705-2350, USA
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Didiano A, Monti P, Taeymans O, Cherubini GB. Canine central nervous system neosporosis: clinical, laboratory and diagnostic imaging findings in six dogs. VETERINARY RECORD CASE REPORTS 2020. [DOI: 10.1136/vetreccr-2019-000905] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Paola Monti
- Clinical PathologyDWR DiagnosticSix Mile BottomUK
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Seltmann A, Schares G, Aschenborn OHK, Heinrich SK, Thalwitzer S, Wachter B, Czirják GÁ. Species-specific differences in Toxoplasma gondii, Neospora caninum and Besnoitia besnoiti seroprevalence in Namibian wildlife. Parasit Vectors 2020; 13:7. [PMID: 31915056 PMCID: PMC6950991 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-019-3871-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2019] [Accepted: 12/29/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Knowledge about parasitic infections is crucial information for animal health, particularly of free-ranging species that might come into contact with livestock and humans. Methods We investigated the seroprevalence of three tissue-cyst-forming apicomplexan parasites (Toxoplasma gondii, Neospora caninum and Besnoitia besnoiti) in 506 individuals of 12 wildlife species in Namibia using in-house enzyme linked immunosorbent assays (indirect ELISAs applying purified antigens) for screening and immunoblots as confirmatory tests. We included six species of the suborder Feliformia, four species of the suborder Caniformia and two species of the suborder Ruminantia. For the two species for which we had most samples and life-history information, i.e. cheetahs (Acinonyx jubatus, n = 250) and leopards (Panthera pardus, n = 58), we investigated T. gondii seroprevalence in relation to age class, sex, sociality (solitary, mother-offspring group, independent sibling group, coalition group) and site (natural habitat vs farmland). Results All but one carnivore species (bat-eared fox Otocyon megalotis, n = 4) were seropositive to T. gondii, with a seroprevalence ranging from 52.4% (131/250) in cheetahs to 93.2% (55/59) in African lions (Panthera leo). We also detected antibodies to T. gondii in 10.0% (2/20) of blue wildebeest (Connochaetes taurinus). Adult cheetahs and leopards were more likely to be seropositive to T. gondii than subadult conspecifics, whereas seroprevalence did not vary with sex, sociality and site. Furthermore, we measured antibodies to N. caninum in 15.4% (2/13) of brown hyenas (Hyaena brunnea) and 2.6% (1/39) of black-backed jackals (Canis mesomelas). Antibodies to B. besnoiti were detected in 3.4% (2/59) of African lions and 20.0% (4/20) of blue wildebeest. Conclusions Our results demonstrate that Namibian wildlife species were exposed to apicomplexan parasites at different prevalences, depending on parasite and host species. In addition to serological work, molecular work is also needed to better understand the sylvatic cycle and the clear role of wildlife in the epidemiology of these parasites in southern Africa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne Seltmann
- Department of Wildlife Diseases, Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, Alfred-Kowalke-Str. 17, 10315, Berlin, Germany. .,Department of Evolutionary Ecology, Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, Alfred-Kowalke-Str. 17, 10315, Berlin, Germany.
| | - Gereon Schares
- Institute of Epidemiology, Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Südufer 10, 17493, Greifswald, Insel Riems, Germany
| | - Ortwin H K Aschenborn
- School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Namibia, Private Bag 13301, Windhoek, Namibia
| | - Sonja K Heinrich
- Department of Evolutionary Ecology, Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, Alfred-Kowalke-Str. 17, 10315, Berlin, Germany
| | | | - Bettina Wachter
- Department of Evolutionary Ecology, Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, Alfred-Kowalke-Str. 17, 10315, Berlin, Germany
| | - Gábor Á Czirják
- Department of Wildlife Diseases, Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, Alfred-Kowalke-Str. 17, 10315, Berlin, Germany
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Aleri JW, Laurence M. A description of biosecurity practices among selected dairy farmers across Australia. ANIMAL PRODUCTION SCIENCE 2020. [DOI: 10.1071/an19340] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Aims
The study investigated critical biosecurity control points and dairy farmers’ motivations towards biosecurity practices among selected dairy farmers across Australia.
Methods
A questionnaire template was administered via an online survey. A three-stage process was used to develop the questionnaire by pooling of potential questions, selection and reduction of the questions to fit an 8–10 min survey.
Key results
A total of 55 responses were obtained. Mixed species rearing was practiced on 69% of the farms, with a majority keeping either sheep or beef cattle within the same property as dairy cattle. Approximately half of the farms (49%) did not provide formal training to new staff on aspects of animal health, as well as not conducting bull breeding soundness. Most of the farms (98%) required staff to use personal protective equipment, such as overalls and gumboots, but only a few of the farms (34%) had designated areas to clean footwear and a system for recording visitors (17%). Record keeping pertaining to animal health, maintenance of good fences and use of vendor declaration forms was practiced in a majority of the farms. The practice of quarantining new stock before mixing with other stock was practiced in only 45% of the farms. Monthly herd health visits by a veterinarian were utilised by 55% of the farms. Multivariable analysis showed positive significant associations between mixed species rearing with the practice of regular pest control (P = 0.004) and use of footbaths (P = 0.024) and no biosecurity plan (P = 0.025). Furthermore, a positive significant association was also recorded on the presence of a biosecurity plan and the presence of a designated area to clean footwear (P = 0.002) and no regular deworming (P = 0.024). Animal and human health reasons were the main motivators for implementing and maintaining ‘best practice’ biosecurity practices, whereas government regulation was the lowest motivator.
Conclusions
It is concluded that the biosecurity practices were variable, and animal and human health reasons were the primary motivators for instituting biosecurity practices.
Implications
There is a need to continue educating farmers on the importance of biosecurity practices.
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Combined control evaluation for Neospora caninum infection in dairy: Economic point of view coupled with population dynamics. Vet Parasitol 2019; 277:108967. [PMID: 31812121 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2019.108967] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2019] [Revised: 11/01/2019] [Accepted: 11/04/2019] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Neospora caninum infection is regarded as one of the most important infectious causes of abortion in dairy cattle. To intervene in its spread, four potential controls including test-and-cull, medication, vaccination, and selective breeding are considered and assessed in this study. The cost of each control, together with the inevitable annual loss due to population dynamics, is adopted as an assessment criterion from an economic point of view. By performing simulation and sensitivity analysis, our results demonstrate that compared with each single control, combined controls are worthwhile with better financial outcomes. For farm affected with significant prevalence (equal to or greater than 30%), vaccine treatment is the most effective and economical option among all control strategies. On the other hand, for farm where prevalence is relatively low (around 10%), combined control, by applying vaccination followed with test-and-cull, medication or selective breeding, could be alternative treatment to provide better financial outcome against single control in an observed period.
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Molesan A, Goodman L, Ford J, Lovering SJ, Kelly K. The Causes of Canine Myocarditis and Myocardial Fibrosis Are Elusive by Targeted Molecular Testing: Retrospective Analysis and Literature Review. Vet Pathol 2019; 56:761-777. [PMID: 31106678 PMCID: PMC10957289 DOI: 10.1177/0300985819839241] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Myocarditis can cause death or permanent heart damage. As epidemiologic and etiopathologic data for canine myocarditis are lacking, we performed a retrospective study using nucleic acid extracted from archived (2007 to 2015) tissues from myocarditis cases and control dogs without myocardial lesions. Heart tissue from pediatric/juvenile and adult dogs was tested with a comprehensive panel of conventional and real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assays targeting recognized agents of canine myocarditis based on a literature review and informed by the comparative epidemiology of human myocarditis. The PCR screen, which included canine parvovirus 2 (CPV-2), canine distemper virus, canine herpesvirus, Borrelia spp, West Nile virus, adenovirus, parainfluenza virus, pneumovirus, respiratory coronavirus, influenza virus, Bartonella spp, Rickettsia spp, Mycoplasma spp, and Neospora caninum, did not detect agents in 35 of 66 cases (53%; 95% confidence interval [CI], 41%-65%) and was frequently negative in adults (21/26); by comparison, agents were not detected in 27 of 57 controls (47%; 95% CI, 35%-60%). Canine distemper virus, herpesvirus, adenovirus, coronavirus, parainfluenza virus, Mycoplasma haemocanis, and N. caninum were occasionally detected in both cases and controls; thus, PCR detection was not considered to indicate causation. We previously reported that CPV-2 continues to be associated with myocarditis in young dogs despite widespread vaccination; in adults, CPV-2 was detected in 2 of 26 cases and 4 of 22 controls. As several agents were similarly detected in cases and controls, it is unclear if these are cardiopathogenic, incidental, or latent. West Nile virus was detected at the analytic limit in 1 adult case. We did not detect Borrelia spp, Bartonella spp, Rickettsia spp, or influenza A virus in the myocarditis cases. These data demonstrate the limitations of current targeted diagnostic tests and the need for additional research to identify unknown agents and develop testing strategies for canine myocarditis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alex Molesan
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, USA
| | - Laura Goodman
- Department of Population Medicine and Diagnostic Services, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, USA
| | - Jordan Ford
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, USA
| | - Samantha J. Lovering
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, USA
| | - Kathleen Kelly
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, USA
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Gao X, Wang H. Seroprevalence and risk factors for Neospora caninum infection in dogs in rural northeastern mainland China. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2019; 26:32. [PMID: 31145075 PMCID: PMC6542294 DOI: 10.1051/parasite/2019034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2019] [Accepted: 05/20/2019] [Indexed: 11/14/2022]
Abstract
Although Neospora caninum is an important veterinary pathogen, veterinarians in various areas including in Mainland China lack a full understanding of neosporosis distribution in dog populations. This study aims to determine the emergence of anti-N. caninum antibodies in canine populations classified based on breeders, herdsmen, and huntsmen in northeast mainland China. In addition, the risk factors associated with seropositivity were explored. An indirect immunofluorescent antibody test (IFAT) was performed on canine serum to determine seroprevalence. Logistic regression models were used to collect and analyze individual and management data, in order to determine high-reliability predictors of seroprevalence as well as the level of anti-N. caninum antibodies. Among the 476 dogs tested, 95 (20%) were seropositive. Mixed breed (OR 1.53), former strays (OR 1.38), dogs living on cattle farms (OR 2.30), hunting dogs (OR 1.22) as well as raw meat feeding (OR 1.66) were correlated (p < 0.05) with N. caninum infection. Interestingly, the seropositivity of dogs on cattle farms was higher (28%) than that of those (24.8%) living in breeding facilities (p < 0.05). A large number of seropositive dogs were found on cattle farms in the study region, suggesting horizontal transmission between dogs and cattle. Therefore, this source of infection should be studied further, and should be a strong consideration in differential diagnoses of dogs raised on cattle farms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiang Gao
- Department of Veterinary Surgery, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, 150030 Heilongjiang, PR China
| | - Hongbin Wang
- Department of Veterinary Surgery, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, 150030 Heilongjiang, PR China
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Paz GSD, Colhado BDS, Anton MM, Rocha KDS, Silva DBD, Moraes CCGD, Lucheis SB, Langoni H. INFECÇÃO POR Toxoplasma gondii, Neospora caninum, Leishmania major E Trypanosoma cruzi EM CÃES DO ESTADO DO PARÁ. CIÊNCIA ANIMAL BRASILEIRA 2019. [DOI: 10.1590/1809-6891v20e-33566] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Resumo Realizou-se inquérito sorológico para Toxoplasma gondii, Neospora caninum, Leishmania spp. e Trypanosoma cruzi em cães dos municípios de Castanhal e Belém, no Estado do Pará, e estudou-se a associação entre os animais sororeagentes e fatores como sexo, idade, acesso a rua e procedência dos animais. Foram utilizados 269 cães de diferentes idades, sadios, provenientes de abrigos de animais, canil comercial, Centro de Controle de Zoonoses e domiciliados. Utilizou-se a reação de imunofluorescência indireta (RIFI), com lâminas sensibilizadas de acordo com os seus respectivos antígenos. Das 263 amostras, 100 foram reagentes, com 38,0% de positividade para Toxoplasma gondii, sendo os títulos prevalentes 16UI e 64UI, 15,97% de sororreagentes para anticorpos anti-N. caninum com maior soroprevalência para os títulos 25UI e 50UI. Na pesquisa de anticorpos anti-L. major, 3,42% foram sororreagentes com o título 40UI, sendo o mais prevalente. A pesquisa de anticorpos anti-T. cruzi revelou negatividade em todas as amostras. As variáveis procedência e faixa etária mostraram ser um fator de risco para os animais. Os animais de Belém apresentaram 2,6 vezes mais chances de infecção do que os animais de Castanhal. Os animais na faixa etária de três a sete anos apresentaram 2,27 vezes mais chances de serem sororreagentes do que os cães com até três anos de idade. Não houve associação estatística para as demais variáveis e protozoários pesquisados.
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