1
|
Liu F, Zeng M, Zhou X, Huang F, Song Z. Aspergillus fumigatus escape mechanisms from its harsh survival environments. Appl Microbiol Biotechnol 2024; 108:53. [PMID: 38175242 DOI: 10.1007/s00253-023-12952-z] [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: 08/15/2023] [Revised: 10/09/2023] [Accepted: 10/19/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024]
Abstract
Aspergillus fumigatus is a ubiquitous pathogenic mold and causes several diseases, including mycotoxicosis, allergic reactions, and systemic diseases (invasive aspergillosis), with high mortality rates. In its ecological niche, the fungus has evolved and mastered many reply strategies to resist and survive against negative threats, including harsh environmental stress and deficiency of essential nutrients from natural environments, immunity responses and drug treatments in host, and competition from symbiotic microorganisms. Hence, treating A. fumigatus infection is a growing challenge. In this review, we summarized A. fumigatus reply strategies and escape mechanisms and clarified the main competitive or symbiotic relationships between A. fumigatus, viruses, bacteria, or fungi in host microecology. Additionally, we discussed the contemporary drug repertoire used to treat A. fumigatus and the latest evidence of potential resistance mechanisms. This review provides valuable knowledge which will stimulate further investigations and clinical applications for treating and preventing A. fumigatus infections. KEY POINTS: • Harsh living environment was a great challenge for A. fumigatus survival. • A. fumigatus has evolved multiple strategies to escape host immune responses. • A. fumigatus withstands antifungal drugs via intrinsic escape mechanisms.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fangyan Liu
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, 646000, People's Republic of China
| | - Meng Zeng
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, 646000, People's Republic of China
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Yongchuan Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 402160, People's Republic of China
| | - Xue Zhou
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, 646000, People's Republic of China
| | - Fujiao Huang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, 646000, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhangyong Song
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, 646000, People's Republic of China.
- Molecular Biotechnology Platform, Public Center of Experimental Technology, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, 646000, People's Republic of China.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Vigil K, Wu H, Aw TG. A systematic review on global zoonotic virus-associated mortality events in marine mammals. One Health 2024; 19:100872. [PMID: 39206255 PMCID: PMC11357810 DOI: 10.1016/j.onehlt.2024.100872] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2024] [Revised: 08/01/2024] [Accepted: 08/02/2024] [Indexed: 09/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Marine mammals play a critical role as sentinels for tracking the spread of zoonotic diseases, with viruses being the primary causative factor behind infectious disease induced mortality events. A systematic review was conducted to document marine mammal mortality events attributed to zoonotic viral infections in published literature across the globe. This rigorous search strategy yielded 2883 studies with 88 meeting inclusion criteria. The studies spanned from 1989 to 2023, with a peak in publications observed in 2020. Most of the included studies were retrospective, providing valuable insights into historical trends. The United States (U.S.) reported the highest number of mortality events followed by Spain, Italy, Brazil and the United Kingdom. Harbor seals were the most impacted species, particularly in regions like Anholt, Denmark and the New England Coast, U.S. Analysis revealed six main viruses responsible for mortality events, with Morbillivirus causing the highest proportion of deaths. Notably, the occurrence of these viral events varied geographically, with distinct patterns observed in different regions. Immunohistochemistry emerged as the most employed detection method. This study underscores the importance of global surveillance efforts in understanding and mitigating the impact of viral infections on marine mammal populations, thereby emphasizing the necessity of collaborative One Health approaches to address emerging threats at the human-animal-environment interface. Additionally, the potential transfer of zoonotic viruses to aquatic organisms used in food production, such as fish and shellfish, highlights the broader implications for food safety, food security and public health.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Katie Vigil
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA, USA
| | - Huiyun Wu
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA, USA
| | - Tiong Gim Aw
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Gong X, Zhou Y, Qin Q, Wang B, Wang L, Jin C, Fang W. Nitrate assimilation compensates for cell wall biosynthesis in the absence of Aspergillus fumigatus phosphoglucose isomerase. Appl Environ Microbiol 2024; 90:e0113824. [PMID: 39158312 DOI: 10.1128/aem.01138-24] [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: 06/11/2024] [Accepted: 07/20/2024] [Indexed: 08/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Phosphoglucose isomerase (PGI) links glycolysis, the pentose phosphate pathway (PPP), and the synthesis of cell wall precursors in fungi by facilitating the reversible conversion between glucose-6-phosphate (Glc6p) and fructose-6-phosphate (Fru6P). In a previous study, we established the essential role of PGI in cell wall biosynthesis in the opportunistic human fungal pathogen Aspergillus fumigatus, highlighting its potential as a therapeutic target. In this study, we conducted transcriptomic analysis and discovered that the Δpgi mutant exhibited enhanced glycolysis, reduced PPP, and an upregulation of cell wall precursor biosynthesis pathways. Phenotypic analysis revealed defective protein N-glycosylation in the mutant, notably the absence of glycosylated virulence factors DPP V and catalase 1. Interestingly, the cell wall defects in the mutant were not accompanied by activation of the MpkA-dependent cell wall integrity (CWI) signaling pathway. Instead, nitrate assimilation was activated in the Δpgi mutant, stimulating glutamine synthesis and providing amino donors for chitin precursor biosynthesis. Blocking the nitrate assimilation pathway severely impaired the growth of the Δpgi mutant, highlighting the crucial role of nitrate assimilation in rescuing cell wall defects. This study unveils the connection between nitrogen assimilation and cell wall compensation in A. fumigatus.IMPORTANCEAspergillus fumigatus is a common and serious human fungal pathogen that causes a variety of diseases. Given the limited availability of antifungal drugs and increasing drug resistance, it is imperative to understand the fungus' survival mechanisms for effective control of fungal infections. Our previous study highlighted the essential role of A. fumigatus PGI in maintaining cell wall integrity, phosphate sugar homeostasis, and virulence. The present study further illuminates the involvement of PGI in protein N-glycosylation. Furthermore, this research reveals that the nitrogen assimilation pathway, rather than the canonical MpkA-dependent CWI pathway, compensates for cell wall deficiencies in the mutant. These findings offer valuable insights into a novel adaptation mechanism of A. fumigatus to address cell wall defects, which could hold promise for the treatment of infections.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiufang Gong
- Institute of Biological Sciences and Technology, Guangxi Academy of Sciences, Nanning, Guangxi, China
- State Key Laboratory of Mycology, Institute of Microbiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Yao Zhou
- Institute of Biological Sciences and Technology, Guangxi Academy of Sciences, Nanning, Guangxi, China
| | - Qijian Qin
- Institute of Biological Sciences and Technology, Guangxi Academy of Sciences, Nanning, Guangxi, China
| | - Bin Wang
- Institute of Biological Sciences and Technology, Guangxi Academy of Sciences, Nanning, Guangxi, China
| | - Linqi Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Mycology, Institute of Microbiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Cheng Jin
- Institute of Biological Sciences and Technology, Guangxi Academy of Sciences, Nanning, Guangxi, China
- State Key Laboratory of Mycology, Institute of Microbiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Wenxia Fang
- Institute of Biological Sciences and Technology, Guangxi Academy of Sciences, Nanning, Guangxi, China
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Garcia-Bustos V, Rosario Medina I, Cabañero Navalón MD, Ruiz Gaitán AC, Pemán J, Acosta-Hernández B. Candida spp. in Cetaceans: Neglected Emerging Challenges in Marine Ecosystems. Microorganisms 2024; 12:1128. [PMID: 38930510 PMCID: PMC11205550 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms12061128] [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: 05/13/2024] [Revised: 05/29/2024] [Accepted: 05/29/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Cetaceans, which are crucial in marine ecosystems, act as sentinels for ecosystem and human-environmental health. However, emerging fungal infections, particularly by Candida spp., pose a growing concern in these marine mammals. This review consolidates current knowledge on the prevalence, clinical manifestations, species distribution, and antifungal resistance of Candida infections in cetaceans. We detail the diverse pathogenic impacts of Candida, including respiratory, dermal, and systemic afflictions, underscoring diagnostic and treatment challenges amid rising antifungal resistance. Our analysis extends beyond health concerns in captive cetaceans, where confinement stress heightens vulnerability, to encompass substantial ecological risks in wild populations. The review emphasizes the One Health perspective, linking cetacean health with broader environmental and human public health issues. We particularly focus on the potential zoonotic transmission of emerging fungal pathogens such as Candida auris and the role of environmental changes in fostering antifungal resistance. The study underscores the need for concerted, interdisciplinary efforts in veterinary, medical, and environmental sciences to enhance understanding and management of Candida infections in cetaceans. We advocate for comprehensive monitoring and collaborative research initiatives to mitigate the rising challenge of these infections. Addressing Candida spp. in cetaceans is not just a conservation priority but a critical step in safeguarding overall marine health and, by extension, human health in the context of evolving infectious diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Victor Garcia-Bustos
- Instituto Universitario de Sanidad Animal y Seguridad Alimentaria (IUSA), Universidad de Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, 35001 Arucas, Spain;
- Severe Infection Research Group, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe, 46026 Valencia, Spain; (M.D.C.N.); (A.C.R.G.); (J.P.)
| | - Inmaculada Rosario Medina
- Instituto Universitario de Sanidad Animal y Seguridad Alimentaria (IUSA), Universidad de Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, 35001 Arucas, Spain;
| | - Marta Dafne Cabañero Navalón
- Severe Infection Research Group, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe, 46026 Valencia, Spain; (M.D.C.N.); (A.C.R.G.); (J.P.)
| | - Alba Cecilia Ruiz Gaitán
- Severe Infection Research Group, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe, 46026 Valencia, Spain; (M.D.C.N.); (A.C.R.G.); (J.P.)
| | - Javier Pemán
- Severe Infection Research Group, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe, 46026 Valencia, Spain; (M.D.C.N.); (A.C.R.G.); (J.P.)
| | - Begoña Acosta-Hernández
- Instituto Universitario de Sanidad Animal y Seguridad Alimentaria (IUSA), Universidad de Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, 35001 Arucas, Spain;
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Colombo SA, de Mello DMD, Morais BRM, Salvato LA, Dorella FA, Tavares GC, da Silva VMF, de Azevedo MI. CHARACTERIZATION OF THE FUNGAL MICROBIOTA IN THE NOSTRILS AND RECTUM OF AMAZONIAN MANATEES ( TRICHECHUS INUNGUIS) FROM A REHABILITATION PROGRAM IN BRAZIL. J Zoo Wildl Med 2024; 55:125-135. [PMID: 38453495 DOI: 10.1638/2022-0069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/14/2023] [Indexed: 03/09/2024] Open
Abstract
The present study characterized the filamentous and yeast-like fungal microbiota of the nasal cavity and rectum of Amazonian manatees (Trichechus inunguis) undergoing rehabilitation at the Laboratory of Aquatic Mammals, National Institute of Amazonian Research, Manaus, Amazonas, and determined the antifungal susceptibility of these organisms. Nasal and rectal swabs were collected from 22 calves and three juveniles. The samples were seeded in Sabouraud agar supplemented with chloramphenicol 10%, incubated at 26°C, and observed daily for up to 7 d. The growth of different filamentous and yeast-like fungi was observed among the two anatomical sites. Filamentous fungi were categorized by macro- and microscopic characteristics of the colonies. Representatives of each group were selected for molecular identification based on the internal transcribed spacer region. Yeast identification was performed using MALDI-TOF MS and molecular analyses. Thirteen genera of filamentous fungi and six genera of yeasts were isolated and identified. The dominant filamentous species were Fusarium spp., Aspergillus spp., and Cochliobolus lunatus in the nostril samples and Aspergillus melleus in the rectal samples. Candida was the dominant genus among the identified yeasts at both anatomical sites. In the antifungal susceptibility test, 28 isolates showed resistance to fluconazole (78%), itraconazole (39%), and nystatin (42%). The knowledge of fungal microbiota composition of Amazonian manatees provides information that assists in monitoring the health status of individuals maintained in captivity, as these organisms can behave either as opportunists or as primary pathogens. Moreover, the composition and resistance of these organisms may vary among different rehabilitation institutions or different time frames of search, reinforcing the importance of constant in loco surveillance of these microorganisms. This study provides new perspectives on the fungal diversity in the microbiota of manatees and supports future studies concerning the clinical and epidemiological aspects and the impacts of these agents on the health of Amazonian manatees undergoing rehabilitation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Salene A Colombo
- Department of Preventive Veterinary Medicine, School of Veterinary Medicine, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG 31270-901, Brazil
| | - Daniela M D de Mello
- Laboratory of Aquatic Mammals, National Institute of Amazonian Research-INPA, Manaus, AM 69060-001, Brazil
| | - Bruna R M Morais
- Department of Preventive Veterinary Medicine, School of Veterinary Medicine, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG 31270-901, Brazil
| | - Lauranne A Salvato
- Department of Preventive Veterinary Medicine, School of Veterinary Medicine, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG 31270-901, Brazil
| | - Fernanda A Dorella
- Department of Preventive Veterinary Medicine, School of Veterinary Medicine, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG 31270-901, Brazil
| | - Guilherme C Tavares
- Department of Preventive Veterinary Medicine, School of Veterinary Medicine, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG 31270-901, Brazil
| | - Vera M F da Silva
- Laboratory of Aquatic Mammals, National Institute of Amazonian Research-INPA, Manaus, AM 69060-001, Brazil
| | - Maria I de Azevedo
- Department of Preventive Veterinary Medicine, School of Veterinary Medicine, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG 31270-901, Brazil,
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Segura-Göthlin S, Fernández A, Arbelo M, Andrada Borzollino MA, Felipe-Jiménez I, Colom-Rivero A, Fiorito C, Sierra E. Viral skin diseases in odontocete cetaceans: gross, histopathological, and molecular characterization of selected pathogens. Front Vet Sci 2023; 10:1188105. [PMID: 37745220 PMCID: PMC10514499 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2023.1188105] [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: 03/16/2023] [Accepted: 08/21/2023] [Indexed: 09/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Fifty-five skin lesions from 31 stranded cetaceans along the Canary coasts (2011-2021) were submitted to macroscopic, histological, and molecular analyses to confirm infection by cetacean poxvirus, herpesvirus and cetacean morbillivirus. They were macroscopically categorized into eight categories with respective subcategories according to their color, shape, size, and consistency. Cetacean poxvirus was detected in 54.54% of the skin lesions through real-time and conventional PCRs based on the DNA polymerase gene. Additionally, herpesvirus and morbillivirus were currently detected from 43.63 and 1.82% of the cutaneous lesions, respectively. Coinfection of poxvirus and herpesvirus was detected in nine of them (16.36%), which makes the present study the first to report coinfection by both pathogens in skin lesions in cetaceans. A plausible approach to histopathological characterization of poxvirus-and herpesvirus-positive skin lesions was established. Hyperkeratosis, acanthosis, ballooning degeneration, and intracytoplasmic inclusion bodies in vacuolized keratinocytes through the stratum spinosum were common findings in poxvirus skin lesions. Alphaherpesvirus was associated with a prominent acanthotic epidermis, moderate necrosis, multifocal dyskeratosis, and irregular keratinocytes with both cellular and nuclei pleomorphism. The common histopathological findings of both pathogens were observed in coinfection lesions. However, those associated with herpesvirus were considerably more remarkable. Relationships between molecular and microscopic findings were observed for the lesions that showed tattoo-like and tortuous patterns. Further multidisciplinary diagnostic studies of infected skin lesions are needed to understand the epidemiology of these emerging infectious diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Simone Segura-Göthlin
- Veterinary Histology and Pathology, Atlantic Center for Cetacean Research, University Institute of Animal Health and Food Safety (IUSA), Veterinary School, University of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria (ULPGC), Las Palmas, Spain
| | - Antonio Fernández
- Veterinary Histology and Pathology, Atlantic Center for Cetacean Research, University Institute of Animal Health and Food Safety (IUSA), Veterinary School, University of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria (ULPGC), Las Palmas, Spain
| | - Manuel Arbelo
- Veterinary Histology and Pathology, Atlantic Center for Cetacean Research, University Institute of Animal Health and Food Safety (IUSA), Veterinary School, University of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria (ULPGC), Las Palmas, Spain
| | - Marisa Ana Andrada Borzollino
- Veterinary Histology and Pathology, Atlantic Center for Cetacean Research, University Institute of Animal Health and Food Safety (IUSA), Veterinary School, University of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria (ULPGC), Las Palmas, Spain
| | - Idaira Felipe-Jiménez
- Veterinary Histology and Pathology, Atlantic Center for Cetacean Research, University Institute of Animal Health and Food Safety (IUSA), Veterinary School, University of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria (ULPGC), Las Palmas, Spain
| | - Ana Colom-Rivero
- Veterinary Histology and Pathology, Atlantic Center for Cetacean Research, University Institute of Animal Health and Food Safety (IUSA), Veterinary School, University of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria (ULPGC), Las Palmas, Spain
| | - Carla Fiorito
- Centro para el Estudio de Sistemas Marinos, Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CESIMAR-CONICET), Puerto Madryn, Chubut, Argentina
| | - Eva Sierra
- Veterinary Histology and Pathology, Atlantic Center for Cetacean Research, University Institute of Animal Health and Food Safety (IUSA), Veterinary School, University of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria (ULPGC), Las Palmas, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Desoubeaux G, Cray C, Chesnay A. Challenges to establish the diagnosis of aspergillosis in non-laboratory animals: looking for alternatives in veterinary medicine and demonstration of feasibility through two concrete examples in penguins and dolphins. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2022; 12:757200. [PMID: 35928207 PMCID: PMC9345302 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2022.757200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2021] [Accepted: 06/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Aspergillosis remains difficult to diagnose in animals. Laboratory-based assays are far less developed than those for human medicine, and only few studies have been completed to validate their utility in routine veterinary diagnostics. To overcome the current limitations, veterinarians and researchers have to propose alternative methods including extrapolating from human diagnostic tools and using innovative technology. In the present overview, two specific examples were complementarily addressed in penguins and dolphins to illustrate how is challenging the diagnosis of aspergillosis in animals. Specific focus will be made on the novel application of simple testing in blood based on serological assays or protein electrophoresis and on the new information garnered from metabolomics/proteomics to discover potential new biomarkers. In conclusion, while the diagnostic approach of aspergillosis in veterinary medicine cannot be directly taken from options developed for human medicine, it can certainly serve as inspiration.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Guillaume Desoubeaux
- Parasitologie – Mycologie – Médecine tropicale, Hôpital Bretonneau, CHRU Tours, Tours, France
- Centre d’étude des pathologies respiratoires – Inserm U1100, faculté de Médecine, Université de Tours, Tours, France
- *Correspondence: Guillaume Desoubeaux,
| | - Carolyn Cray
- University of Miami, Comparative Pathology, Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, United States
| | - Adélaïde Chesnay
- Parasitologie – Mycologie – Médecine tropicale, Hôpital Bretonneau, CHRU Tours, Tours, France
- Centre d’étude des pathologies respiratoires – Inserm U1100, faculté de Médecine, Université de Tours, Tours, France
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Fungal diversity and community structure from coastal and barrier island beaches in the United States Gulf of Mexico. Sci Rep 2021; 11:3889. [PMID: 33594106 PMCID: PMC7886894 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-81688-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2020] [Accepted: 01/11/2021] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Fungi are an important and understudied component of coastal biomes including sand beaches. Basic biogeographic diversity data are lacking for marine fungi in most parts of the world, despite their important role in decomposition. We examined intertidal fungal communities at several United States (US) Gulf of Mexico sand beach sites using morphology and ITS rDNA terminal restriction fragment length polymorphism (T-RFLP) analyses. Fungal biogeographical patterns from sand beach detritus (wood, emergent plant [mangrove/ saltmarsh], or marine [algae, seagrass]) from Florida, Mississippi, and Texas were investigated using diversity indices and multivariate analyses. Fungal diversity increased with decreasing latitude at our study sites. Substrate type strongly influenced fungal community structure in this region, with different fungal communities on detrital marine versus emergent substrates, as well as detrital marine versus wood substrates. Thirty-five fungi were identified morphologically, including new regional and host records. Of these, 86% were unique to an individual collection (i.e., sampled once from one site). Rarefaction curves from pooled morphological data from all sites estimate the number of samples required to characterize the mycota of each substrate. As sampling occurred before the Deepwater Horizon oil spill (April-2010), our findings contribute pre-oil spill sand beach biodiversity data and marine fungal distribution trends within this economically important oceanographic region.
Collapse
|
9
|
Groch KR, Díaz-Delgado J, Santos-Neto EB, Ikeda JMP, Carvalho RR, Oliveira RB, Guari EB, Flach L, Sierra E, Godinho AI, Fernández A, Keid LB, Soares RM, Kanamura CT, Favero C, Ferreira-Machado E, Sacristán C, Porter BF, Bisi TL, Azevedo AF, Lailson-Brito J, Catão-Dias JL. The Pathology of Cetacean Morbillivirus Infection and Comorbidities in Guiana Dolphins During an Unusual Mortality Event (Brazil, 2017-2018). Vet Pathol 2020; 57:845-857. [PMID: 32964811 DOI: 10.1177/0300985820954550] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Cetacean morbillivirus (CeMV; Paramyxoviridae) is the most significant pathogen of cetaceans worldwide. The novel "multi-host" Guiana dolphin (Sotalia guianensis; GD)-CeMV strain is reported in South American waters and infects Guiana dolphins and southern right whales (Eubalaena australis). This study aimed to describe the pathologic findings, GD-CeMV viral antigen distribution and detection by RT-PCR (reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction), and infectious comorbidities in 29 Guiana dolphins that succumbed during an unusual mass-mortality event in Rio de Janeiro state, Brazil, between November 2017 and March 2018. The main gross findings were lack of ingesta, pulmonary edema, ascites, icterus, hepatic lipidosis, multicentric lymphadenomegaly, as well as pneumonia, polyserositis, and multiorgan vasculitis caused by Halocercus brasiliensis. Microscopically, the primary lesions were bronchointerstitial pneumonia and multicentric lymphoid depletion. The severity and extent of the lesions paralleled the distribution and intensity of morbilliviral antigen. For the first time in cetaceans, morbilliviral antigen was detected in salivary gland, optic nerve, heart, diaphragm, parietal and visceral epithelium of glomeruli, vulva, and thyroid gland. Viral antigen within circulating leukocytes suggested this as a mechanism of dissemination within the host. Comorbidities included disseminated toxoplasmosis, mycosis, ciliated protozoosis, and bacterial disease including brucellosis. These results provide strong evidence for GD-CeMV as the main cause of this unusual mass-mortality event.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Josué Díaz-Delgado
- 28133University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil.,67283Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA
| | | | - Joana M P Ikeda
- 28130Universidade do Estado do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Rafael R Carvalho
- 28130Universidade do Estado do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Raissa B Oliveira
- 28130Universidade do Estado do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Emi B Guari
- 28130Universidade do Estado do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Leonardo Flach
- Instituto Boto Cinza, Mangaratiba, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Eva Sierra
- 16750University of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Canary Islands, Spain
| | - Ana I Godinho
- 16750University of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Canary Islands, Spain
| | - Antonio Fernández
- 16750University of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Canary Islands, Spain
| | - Lara B Keid
- 28133University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Tatiana L Bisi
- 28130Universidade do Estado do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
10
|
POSTMORTEM COMPUTED TOMOGRAPHY AND MAGNETIC RESONANCE IMAGING FINDINGS IN A CASE OF COINFECTION OF DOLPHIN MORBILLIVIRUS AND ASPERGILLUS FUMIGATUS IN A JUVENILE BOTTLENOSE DOLPHIN ( TURSIOPS TRUNCATUS). J Zoo Wildl Med 2020; 51:448-454. [PMID: 32549578 DOI: 10.1638/2019-0087] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/02/2020] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
A freshly dead juvenile bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops truncatus), recovered from the waters near Sand Key, Clearwater, FL, was imaged postmortem using computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging prior to conventional necropsy. The pattern of imaging findings in the brain was compatible with severe multifocal meningoencephalitis with intralesional necrosis and/or hemorrhage, and the pattern of imaging findings in the lungs was compatible with severe multifocal bronchopneumonia. The subsequent investigation included necropsy, histology, culture, and molecular diagnostics and demonstrated disseminated coinfection of dolphin morbillivirus and Aspergillus fumigatus. This is the first report documenting the cross-sectional imaging findings of this important cetacean comorbidity and demonstrates advances in modern, cooperative investigations of marine mammal mortality events.
Collapse
|
11
|
Desoubeaux G, Piqueras MDC, Le-Bert C, Fravel V, Clauss T, Delaune AJ, Daniels R, Jensen ED, Flower JE, Bossart GD, Bhattacharya SK, Cray C. Labeled quantitative mass spectrometry to study the host response during aspergillosis in the common bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops truncatus). Vet Microbiol 2019; 232:42-49. [PMID: 31030843 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetmic.2019.03.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2018] [Revised: 01/10/2019] [Accepted: 03/29/2019] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
Aspergillosis is a fungal infection caused by Aspergillus molds that can affect both humans and animals. Despite advances in diagnostics and therapy, medical management of this disease remains difficult. Expansion of the basic knowledge regarding its pathophysiology in animals is critical to aid in the identification of new biomarkers of infection for diagnosis and therapeutic targets. For such a purpose, proteomics can be used by addressing protein changes during various disease processes. In the present study, a mass spectrometry analysis based on isobaric tagging for relative and absolute quantitation (iTRAQ®) was applied for direct identification and relative quantitation of proteins in blood collected from 32 Aspergillus-diseased common bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus, 32 samples) in comparison with blood from 55 other dolphins (55 samples from 41 clinically-normal controls and from 14 cetaceans with miscellaneous non-Aspergillus inflammation diseases) and ten convalescent dolphins (28 samples). Sixty-six and 40 proteins were found to be ≥2.0-fold over- and underrepresented versus miscellaneous non-Aspergillus inflammatory dolphins, respectively, and most were confirmed vs. clinically-normal controls and convalescents. Many proteins which play a role in the adaptive immune response were identified, including MHC proteins and others involved in catalytic activity like the NADPH-ubiquinone oxido-reductases. Overall, iTRAQ® appears to be a convenient proteomic tool greatly suited for exploratory ex vivo studies focusing on pathophysiology. This technique should be considered as a preliminary step before validation of new diagnostic markers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Guillaume Desoubeaux
- University of Miami, Division of Comparative Pathology, Department of Pathology & Laboratory Medicine, Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, 33136, USA; CHU de Tours, Service de Parasitologie, Mycologie, Médecine tropicale, 37044, Tours, France; Université de Tours, CEPR - INSERM U1100 / Équipe 3, Faculté de Médecine, 37032, Tours, France
| | - Maria Del Carmen Piqueras
- University of Miami, Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, Mass Spectrometry Core Facility, Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, 33136, USA
| | | | | | | | | | - Risa Daniels
- National Marine Mammal Foundation, San Diego, CA, 92106, USA
| | - Eric D Jensen
- U.S. Navy Marine Mammal Program, San Diego, CA, 92152, USA
| | - Jennifer E Flower
- Chicago Zoological Society's Brookfield Zoo, Brookfield, IL, 60513, USA
| | - Gregory D Bossart
- University of Miami, Division of Comparative Pathology, Department of Pathology & Laboratory Medicine, Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, 33136, USA; Georgia Aquarium, Atlanta, GA, 30313, USA
| | - Sanjoy K Bhattacharya
- University of Miami, Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, Mass Spectrometry Core Facility, Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, 33136, USA
| | - Carolyn Cray
- University of Miami, Division of Comparative Pathology, Department of Pathology & Laboratory Medicine, Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, 33136, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Díaz-Delgado J, Groch KR, Ressio R, Riskallah IPJ, Sierra E, Sacchini S, Quesada-Canales Ó, Arbelo M, Fernández A, Santos-Neto E, Ikeda J, de Carvalho RR, Azevedo ADF, Lailson-Brito J, Flach L, Kanamura CT, Fernandes NCCA, Cogliati B, Centelleghe C, Mazzariol S, Di Renzo L, Di Francesco G, Di Guardo G, Catão-Dias JL. Comparative Immunopathology of Cetacean morbillivirus Infection in Free-Ranging Dolphins From Western Mediterranean, Northeast-Central, and Southwestern Atlantic. Front Immunol 2019; 10:485. [PMID: 30936878 PMCID: PMC6431672 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2019.00485] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2018] [Accepted: 02/22/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Cetacean morbillivirus (CeMV; Paramyxoviridae) causes epizootic and interepizootic fatalities in odontocetes and mysticetes worldwide. Studies suggest there is different species-specific susceptibility to CeMV infection, with striped dolphins (Stenella coeruleoalba), bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus), and Guiana dolphins (Sotalia guianensis) ranking among the most susceptible cetacean hosts. The pathogenesis of CeMV infection is not fully resolved. Since no previous studies have evaluated the organ-specific immunopathogenetic features of CeMV infection in tissues from infected dolphins, this study was aimed at characterizing and comparing immunophenotypic profiles of local immune responses in lymphoid organs (lymph nodes, spleen), lung and CNS in CeMV-molecularly (RT-PCR)-positive cetaceans from Western Mediterranean, Northeast-Central, and Southwestern Atlantic. Immunohistochemical (IHC) analyses targeted molecules of immunologic interest: caspase 3, CD3, CD20, CD57, CD68, FoxP3, MHCII, Iba1, IFNγ, IgG, IL4, IL10, lysozyme, TGFβ, and PAX5. We detected consistent CeMV-associated inflammatory response patterns. Within CNS, inflammation was dominated by CD3+ (T cells), and CD20+ and PAX5+ (B cells) lymphocytes, accompanied by fewer Iba1+, CD68+, and lysozyme+ histiocytes, mainly in striped dolphins and bottlenose dolphins. Multicentric lymphoid depletion was characterized by reduced numbers of T cells and B cells, more pronounced in Guiana dolphins. Striped dolphins and bottlenose dolphins often had hyperplastic (regenerative) phenomena involving the aforementioned cell populations, particularly chronically infected animals. In the lung, there was mild to moderate increase in T cells, B cells, and histiocytes. Additionally, there was a generalized increased expression of caspase 3 in lymphoid, lung, and CNS tissues. Apoptosis, therefore, is believed to play a major role in generalized lymphoid depletion and likely overt immunosuppression during CeMV infection. No differences were detected regarding cytokine immunoreactivity in lymph nodes, spleen, and lung from infected and non-infected dolphins by semiquantitative analysis; however, there was striking immunoreactivity for IFNγ in the CNS of infected dolphins. These novel results set the basis for tissue-specific immunophenotypic responses during CeMV infection in three highly susceptible delphinid species. They also suggest a complex interplay between viral and host's immune factors, thereby contributing to gain valuable insights into similarities, and differences of CeMV infection's immunopathogenesis in relation to body tissues, CeMV strains, and cetacean hosts.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Josué Díaz-Delgado
- Laboratory of Wildlife Comparative Pathology, Department of Pathology, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Kátia R. Groch
- Laboratory of Wildlife Comparative Pathology, Department of Pathology, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Rodrigo Ressio
- Pathology Center, Adolfo Lutz Institute, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Isis P. J. Riskallah
- Pathology Center, Adolfo Lutz Institute, São Paulo, Brazil
- Laboratory of Morphologic and Molecular Pathology, Department of Pathology, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Eva Sierra
- School of Veterinary Medicine, Institute for Animal Health and Food Safety, University of Las Palmas of Gran Canaria, Arucas, Spain
| | - Simona Sacchini
- School of Veterinary Medicine, Institute for Animal Health and Food Safety, University of Las Palmas of Gran Canaria, Arucas, Spain
| | - Óscar Quesada-Canales
- School of Veterinary Medicine, Institute for Animal Health and Food Safety, University of Las Palmas of Gran Canaria, Arucas, Spain
| | - Manuel Arbelo
- School of Veterinary Medicine, Institute for Animal Health and Food Safety, University of Las Palmas of Gran Canaria, Arucas, Spain
| | - Antonio Fernández
- School of Veterinary Medicine, Institute for Animal Health and Food Safety, University of Las Palmas of Gran Canaria, Arucas, Spain
| | - Elitieri Santos-Neto
- Laboratory of Aquatic Mammals and Bioindicators: Profa Izabel M. G. do N. Gurgel' (MAQUA), Faculty of Oceanography, Rio de Janeiro State University, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Joana Ikeda
- Laboratory of Aquatic Mammals and Bioindicators: Profa Izabel M. G. do N. Gurgel' (MAQUA), Faculty of Oceanography, Rio de Janeiro State University, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Rafael Ramos de Carvalho
- Laboratory of Aquatic Mammals and Bioindicators: Profa Izabel M. G. do N. Gurgel' (MAQUA), Faculty of Oceanography, Rio de Janeiro State University, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Alexandre de Freitas Azevedo
- Laboratory of Aquatic Mammals and Bioindicators: Profa Izabel M. G. do N. Gurgel' (MAQUA), Faculty of Oceanography, Rio de Janeiro State University, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Jose Lailson-Brito
- Laboratory of Aquatic Mammals and Bioindicators: Profa Izabel M. G. do N. Gurgel' (MAQUA), Faculty of Oceanography, Rio de Janeiro State University, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Leonardo Flach
- Instituto Boto Cinza, Mangaratiba, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | | | | | - Bruno Cogliati
- Laboratory of Morphologic and Molecular Pathology, Department of Pathology, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Cinzia Centelleghe
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Hygiene (BCA), University of Padova, Legnaro, Italy
| | - Sandro Mazzariol
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Hygiene (BCA), University of Padova, Legnaro, Italy
| | - Ludovica Di Renzo
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale dell'Abruzzo e del Molise “G. Caporale”, Teramo, Italy
| | - Gabriella Di Francesco
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale dell'Abruzzo e del Molise “G. Caporale”, Teramo, Italy
| | | | - José Luiz Catão-Dias
- Laboratory of Wildlife Comparative Pathology, Department of Pathology, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
|
14
|
Díaz-Delgado J, Fernández A, Sierra E, Sacchini S, Andrada M, Vela AI, Quesada-Canales Ó, Paz Y, Zucca D, Groch K, Arbelo M. Pathologic findings and causes of death of stranded cetaceans in the Canary Islands (2006-2012). PLoS One 2018; 13:e0204444. [PMID: 30289951 PMCID: PMC6173391 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0204444] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2018] [Accepted: 09/07/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
This study describes the pathologic findings and most probable causes of death (CD) of 224 cetaceans stranded along the coastline of the Canary Islands (Spain) over a 7-year period, 2006-2012. Most probable CD, grouped as pathologic categories (PCs), was identified in 208/224 (92.8%) examined animals. Within natural PCs, those associated with good nutritional status represented 70/208 (33.6%), whereas, those associated with significant loss of nutritional status represented 49/208 (23.5%). Fatal intra- and interspecific traumatic interactions were 37/208 (17.8%). Vessel collisions included 24/208 (11.5%). Neonatal/perinatal pathology involved 13/208 (6.2%). Fatal interaction with fishing activities comprised 10/208 (4.8%). Within anthropogenic PCs, foreign body-associated pathology represented 5/208 (2.4%). A CD could not be determined in 16/208 (7.7%) cases. Natural PCs were dominated by infectious and parasitic disease processes. Herein, our results suggest that between 2006 and 2012, in the Canary Islands, direct human activity appeared responsible for 19% of cetaceans deaths, while natural pathologies accounted for 81%. These results, integrating novel findings and published reports, aid in delineating baseline knowledge on cetacean pathology and may be of value to rehabilitators, caregivers, diagnosticians and future conservation policies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Josué Díaz-Delgado
- Veterinary Histology and Pathology, Institute of Animal Health and Food Hygiene (IUSA), University of Las Palmas of Gran Canaria, Las Palmas of Gran Canaria, Spain
- Wildlife Comparative Pathology Laboratory, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Antonio Fernández
- Veterinary Histology and Pathology, Institute of Animal Health and Food Hygiene (IUSA), University of Las Palmas of Gran Canaria, Las Palmas of Gran Canaria, Spain
| | - Eva Sierra
- Veterinary Histology and Pathology, Institute of Animal Health and Food Hygiene (IUSA), University of Las Palmas of Gran Canaria, Las Palmas of Gran Canaria, Spain
| | - Simona Sacchini
- Veterinary Histology and Pathology, Institute of Animal Health and Food Hygiene (IUSA), University of Las Palmas of Gran Canaria, Las Palmas of Gran Canaria, Spain
| | - Marisa Andrada
- Veterinary Histology and Pathology, Institute of Animal Health and Food Hygiene (IUSA), University of Las Palmas of Gran Canaria, Las Palmas of Gran Canaria, Spain
| | - Ana Isabel Vela
- Department of Animal Health, Veterinary College, Complutense University, Madrid, Spain
- Centro de Vigilancia Sanitaria Veterinaria (VISAVET). Complutense University, Madrid, Spain
| | - Óscar Quesada-Canales
- Veterinary Histology and Pathology, Institute of Animal Health and Food Hygiene (IUSA), University of Las Palmas of Gran Canaria, Las Palmas of Gran Canaria, Spain
| | - Yania Paz
- Veterinary Histology and Pathology, Institute of Animal Health and Food Hygiene (IUSA), University of Las Palmas of Gran Canaria, Las Palmas of Gran Canaria, Spain
| | - Daniele Zucca
- Veterinary Histology and Pathology, Institute of Animal Health and Food Hygiene (IUSA), University of Las Palmas of Gran Canaria, Las Palmas of Gran Canaria, Spain
| | - Kátia Groch
- Wildlife Comparative Pathology Laboratory, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Manuel Arbelo
- Veterinary Histology and Pathology, Institute of Animal Health and Food Hygiene (IUSA), University of Las Palmas of Gran Canaria, Las Palmas of Gran Canaria, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Desoubeaux G, Le-Bert C, Fravel V, Clauss T, Delaune AJ, Soto J, Jensen ED, Flower JE, Wells R, Bossart GD, Cray C. Evaluation of a genus-specific ELISA and a commercial Aspergillus Western blot IgG® immunoblot kit for the diagnosis of aspergillosis in common bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus). Med Mycol 2018; 56:847-856. [PMID: 29228323 DOI: 10.1093/mmy/myx114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2017] [Accepted: 10/10/2017] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Aspergillosis is a fungal infection with high mortality and morbidity rates. As in humans, its definitive diagnosis is difficult in animals, and thus new laboratory tools are required to overcome the diagnostic limitations due to low specificity and lack of standardization. In this study of common bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus), we evaluated the diagnostic performance of a new commercial immunoblot kit that had been initially developed for the serologic diagnosis of chronic aspergillosis in humans. Using this in a quantitative approach, we first established its positive cutoff within an observation cohort of 32 serum samples from dolphins with "proven" or "probable" diagnosis of aspergillosis and 55 negative controls. A novel enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) test was also developed for detecting anti-Aspergillus antibodies, and results were compared between the two assays. Overall, the diagnostic performance of immunoblot and ELISA were strongly correlated (P < .0001). The former showed lower sensitivity (65.6% versus 90.6%), but higher specificity (92.7% vs. 69.1%), with no cross-reaction with other fungal infections caused by miscellaneous non-Aspergillus genera. When assessing their use in a validation cohort, the immunoblot kit and the ELISA enabled positive diagnosis before mycological cultures in 42.9% and 33.3% subjects addressed for suspicion of aspergillosis, respectively. There was also significant impact of antifungal treatment on the results of the two tests (P < .05). In all, these new serological methods show promise in aiding in the diagnosis of aspergillosis in dolphins, and illustrate the opportunity to adapt commercial reagents directed for human diagnostics to detect similar changes in other animals.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Guillaume Desoubeaux
- University of Miami, Division of Comparative Pathology, Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL - USA.,CHU de Tours, Service de Parasitologie - Mycologie - Médecine tropicale, Tours - France.,Université François-Rabelais, CEPR - INSERM U1100 / Équipe 3, Faculté de Médecine, Tours - France
| | | | | | | | | | - Jeny Soto
- University of Miami, Division of Comparative Pathology, Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL - USA
| | - Eric D Jensen
- U.S. Navy Marine Mammal Program, San Diego, CA - USA
| | - Jennifer E Flower
- Mystic Aquarium, a division of Sea Research Foundation Inc., Mystic, CT - USA
| | - Randall Wells
- Chicago Zoological Society's Sarasota Dolphin Research Program, c/o Mote Marine Laboratory, Sarasota, FL - USA
| | - Gregory D Bossart
- University of Miami, Division of Comparative Pathology, Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL - USA.,Georgia Aquarium, Atlanta, GA - USA
| | - Carolyn Cray
- University of Miami, Division of Comparative Pathology, Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL - USA
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Groch KR, Díaz-Delgado J, Sacristán C, Oliveira DE, Souza G, Sánchez-Sarmiento AM, Costa-Silva S, Marigo J, Castilho PV, Cremer MJ, Rodrigues Hoffmann A, Esperón F, Catão-Dias JL. Pulmonary and systemic fungal infections in an Atlantic spotted dolphin and a Bryde's whale, Brazil. DISEASES OF AQUATIC ORGANISMS 2018; 128:73-79. [PMID: 29565255 DOI: 10.3354/dao03207] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
We report the gross and microscopic findings and molecular identification of 2 cases of hyphate fungal infection in cetaceans from Brazil. The first case involved an adult male Atlantic spotted dolphin Stenella frontalis with localized pulmonary disease characterized by pyogranulomatous and necrotizing bronchopneumonia with intralesional hyphae. The second case involved an adult male Bryde's whale Balaenoptera edeni with orchitis, periorchitis, mesenteric lymphadenitis and pyogranulomatous bronchopneumonia with intralesional hyphae. PCR analysis from the dolphin's lung yielded Aspergillus fumigatus, and the fungus from the whale's mesenteric lymph node showed the greatest identity to Nanniziopsis obscura and Stagonosporopsis cucurbitacearum These cases represent the first reports of pulmonary aspergillosis by A. fumigatus in an Atlantic spotted dolphin and systemic mycosis by a possibly novel Onygenales in marine mammals.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kátia R Groch
- Laboratory of Wildlife Comparative Pathology, Department of Pathology, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, SP 05508-270, Brazil
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
17
|
Grattarola C, Giorda F, Iulini B, Pautasso A, Ballardini M, Zoppi S, Marsili L, Peletto S, Masoero L, Varello K, Garibaldi F, Scaglione FE, Di Guardo G, Dondo A, Goria M, Serracca L, Mignone W, Casalone C. Occlusive mycotic tracheobronchitis and systemic Alphaherpesvirus coinfection in a free-living striped dolphin Stenella coeruleoalba in Italy. DISEASES OF AQUATIC ORGANISMS 2018; 127:137-144. [PMID: 29384483 DOI: 10.3354/dao03190] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
A juvenile female striped dolphin Stenella coeruleoalba live stranded on 4 March 2016 at Alassio, western Ligurian Sea coast, Italy. The dolphin died shortly after stranding, and a complete postmortem examination was performed. Necropsy revealed severe tracheal occlusion and unilateral bronchial stenosis with luminal accumulation of abundant green-yellow mucous-gelatinous material. Histological features suggestive of tracheobronchial aspergillosis were observed. Cultures of lung tissue and tracheo-bronchial exudate isolated Aspergillus fumigatus, identified by a Microseq D2 LSUrDNA fungal sequencing kit. A pan-Herpesvirus nested-PCR assay on frozen samples obtained from multiple organs was positive. Phylogenetic analysis on the partial DNA polymerase gene revealed that the striped dolphin isolate was closely related to known cetacean Alphaherpesvirus sequences from the same host species. Attempted virus isolation was unsuccessful. The tissue levels of different persistent organic pollutants and the toxicological stress, evaluated using a theoretical model, showed a severely impaired immune response. This study reports the first case of occlusive mycotic tracheobronchitis in a free-living cetacean and the first molecular identification of an Alphaherpesvirus in a free-ranging striped dolphin stranded on the coast of Italy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Carla Grattarola
- C.Re.Di.Ma., Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Piemonte, Liguria e Valle d'Aosta, 10154 Torino, Italy
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
18
|
Díaz-Delgado J, Sierra E, Vela AI, Arbelo M, Zucca D, Groch KR, Fernández A. Coinfection by Streptococcus phocae and cetacean morbillivirus in a short-beaked common dolphin Delphinus delphis. DISEASES OF AQUATIC ORGANISMS 2017; 124:247-252. [PMID: 28492181 DOI: 10.3354/dao03124] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
We describe gross, histopathological, and immunohistochemical features of Streptococcus phocae and cetacean morbillivirus coinfection in a short-beaked common dolphin Delphinus delphis. Major gross findings were cutaneous purulent nodules in the tail fluke, vegetative mitral valve endocarditis, and presumed postpartum pyometra. Histologic examination revealed bacterial septicemia characterized by widespread intravascular coccoid bacterial emboli. These were associated with fibrinonecrotizing to pyogranulomatous dermatitis and panniculitis, embolic pneumonia, neutrophilic and lymphoplasmacytic meningochoroiditis, random neutrophilic hepatitis, lymphoplasmacytic myocarditis and epicarditis, necrotizing adrenalitis, suppurative endometritis, and multicentric reactive lymphadenopathy. Bacteriology and molecular analysis with sequencing of the 16S rRNA gene identified S. phocae from lung, brain, and adrenal gland tissue. Immunohistochemical analysis for morbillivirus detection revealed positive immunolabeling in the epithelium of the choroid plexus of the fourth ventricle. Published reports on S. phocae infection in cetaceans are rare, and pathological details are limited. The present case indicates that S. phocae has potential pathogenic capacity in common dolphins. The pathogenesis is proposed to have involved cutaneous penetration after a skin trauma, leading to initial cutaneous disease and eventual systemic infection.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- J Díaz-Delgado
- Veterinary Histology and Pathology, Institute of Animal Health, Veterinary College, University of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Trasmontana s/n, Arucas 35413, Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Spain
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|