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Mosha ET, Kuria JKN, Otiende M, Lekolool I. Molecular Detection of Anaplasma phagocytophilum in Small Mammals and Infesting Ticks in Laikipia County, Kenya. Vet Med Int 2024; 2024:5575162. [PMID: 38756415 PMCID: PMC11098608 DOI: 10.1155/2024/5575162] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2024] [Revised: 04/18/2024] [Accepted: 04/24/2024] [Indexed: 05/18/2024] Open
Abstract
Anaplasmosis is a set of disease conditions of various mammals caused by bacteria species of the genus Anaplasma. These are sub-microscopic, Gram-negative, obligate intracellular pathogens that infect both vertebrate and invertebrate hosts. Significant species that infect domestic and wildlife animals include Anaplasma marginale, Anaplasma ovis, Anaplasma mesaeterum, Anaplasma platys, and Anaplasma phagocytophilum. Although A. phagocytophilum has a widespread distribution, there are only a few epidemiological reports from sub-Saharan Africa. This study focused on molecular detection and characterization of A. phagocytophilum in small mammals and their infesting ticks in Laikipia County, Kenya. A total of 385 blood and 84 tick archival samples from small mammals (155 females and 230 males) were analyzed. The blood samples were subjected to a nested PCR-HRM melt analysis using species-specific primers to amplify the 16S ribosomal RNA genes. The ticks were also subjected to nested PCR-HRM involving 16S rRNA gene primers. Anaplasma phagocytophilum DNA was detected in 19 out of 385 samples using species-specific 16S rRNA gene primers giving a prevalence of 4.9% for A. phagocytophilum. Analysis of the tick's samples using 16S rRNA gene species-specific primers also detected A. phagocytophilum in 3 samples from Haemaphysalis leachi ticks (3/84) equivalent to prevalence of 3.6%. Sequencing of 16S rRNA PCR products confirmed A. phagocytophilum in small mammals and ticks' samples. Phylogenetic analysis of the haplotype from this study demonstrated a close ancestral link with strains from Canis lupus familiaris, Alces alces, Apodemus agrarius, and ticks (Haemaphysalis longicornis) reported in Europe, China, and Africa. Comparison was also made with a known pathogenic A. phagocytophilum variant HA and a nonpathogenic variant 1 that were clustered into a distinctive clade different form haplotypes detected in this study. All the haplotype sequences for A. phagocytophilum from this study were submitted and registered in GenBank under the accession numbers OQ308965-OQ308976. Our study shows that small mammals and their associated ticks harbor A. phagocytophilum. The vector competence for H. leachi in A. phagocytophilum transmission should further be investigated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erick Titus Mosha
- Department of Veterinary Pathology, Microbiology and Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Joseph K. N. Kuria
- Department of Veterinary Pathology, Microbiology and Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Moses Otiende
- Forensic Laboratory, Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS), Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Isaac Lekolool
- Forensic Laboratory, Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS), Nairobi, Kenya
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Probst J, Springer A, Fingerle V, Strube C. Frequency of Anaplasma phagocytophilum, Borrelia spp., and coinfections in Ixodes ricinus ticks collected from dogs and cats in Germany. Parasit Vectors 2024; 17:87. [PMID: 38395915 PMCID: PMC10893606 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-024-06193-w] [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: 12/08/2023] [Accepted: 02/11/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Changing geographical and seasonal activity patterns of ticks may increase the risk of tick infestation and tick-borne pathogen (TBP) transmission for both humans and animals. METHODS To estimate TBP exposure of dogs and cats, 3000 female I. ricinus from these hosts were investigated for Anaplasma phagocytophilum and Borrelia species. RESULTS qPCR inhibition, which was observed for ticks of all engorgement stages but not questing ticks, was eliminated at a template volume of 2 µl. In ticks from dogs, A. phagocytophilum and Borrelia spp. prevalence amounted to 19.0% (285/1500) and 28.5% (427/1500), respectively, while ticks from cats showed significantly higher values of 30.9% (464/1500) and 55.1% (827/1500). Accordingly, the coinfection rate with both A. phagocytophilum and Borrelia spp. was significantly higher in ticks from cats (17.5%, 262/1500) than dogs (6.9%, 104/1500). Borrelia prevalence significantly decreased with increasing engorgement duration in ticks from both host species, whereas A. phagocytophilum prevalence decreased only in ticks from dogs. While A. phagocytophilum copy numbers in positive ticks did not change significantly over the time of engorgement, those of Borrelia decreased initially in dog ticks. In ticks from cats, copy numbers of neither A. phagocytophilum nor Borrelia spp. were affected by engorgement. Borrelia species differentiation was successful in 29.1% (365/1254) of qPCR-positive ticks. The most frequently detected species in ticks from dogs were B. afzelii (39.3% of successfully differentiated infections; 70/178), B. miyamotoi (16.3%; 29/178), and B. valaisiana (15.7%; 28/178), while B. afzelii (40.1%; 91/227), B. spielmanii (21.6%; 49/227), and B. miyamotoi (14.1%; 32/227) occurred most frequently in ticks from cats. CONCLUSIONS The differences in pathogen prevalence and Borrelia species distribution between ticks collected from dogs and cats may result from differences in habitat overlap with TBP reservoir hosts. The declining prevalence of A. phagocytophilum with increasing engorgement duration, without a decrease in copy numbers, could indicate transmission to dogs over the time of attachment. The fact that this was not observed in ticks from cats may indicate less efficient transmission. In conclusion, the high prevalence of A. phagocytophilum and Borrelia spp. in ticks collected from dogs and cats underlines the need for effective acaricide tick control to protect both animals and humans from associated health risks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia Probst
- Institute for Parasitology, Centre for Infection Medicine, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Buenteweg 17, 30559, Hanover, Germany
| | - Andrea Springer
- Institute for Parasitology, Centre for Infection Medicine, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Buenteweg 17, 30559, Hanover, Germany
| | - Volker Fingerle
- National Reference Centre for Borrelia, Bavarian Health and Food Safety Authority, Veterinärstraße 2, 85764, Oberschleissheim, Germany
| | - Christina Strube
- Institute for Parasitology, Centre for Infection Medicine, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Buenteweg 17, 30559, Hanover, Germany.
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Villanueva-Saz S, Martínez M, Nijhof AM, Gerst B, Gentil M, Müller E, Fernández A, González A, Yusuf MSM, Greco G, Verde M, Sgroi G, Lacasta D, Marteles D, Trotta M, Schäfer I. Molecular survey on vector-borne pathogens in clinically healthy stray cats in Zaragoza (Spain). Parasit Vectors 2023; 16:428. [PMID: 37986028 PMCID: PMC10662132 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-023-06046-y] [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: 09/05/2023] [Accepted: 11/06/2023] [Indexed: 11/22/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In Europe, feline vector-borne infections are gaining importance because of the changing climate, expanding habitats of potential vectors and expanding pathogen reservoirs. The main objective of this study was to assess the prevalence of vector-borne pathogens (VBPs) in stray cats in Zaragoza, Spain, and to investigate potential risk factors for infection, including feline leukaemia virus (FeLV) and feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV). METHODS Blood samples from stray cats presented to the veterinary faculty in Zaragoza between February 2020 and 2022 were tested by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) for the presence of Anaplasma phagocytophilum, Anaplasma platys, Bartonella henselae, Ehrlichia canis, Rickettsia spp., haemotropic Mycoplasma spp., Hepatozoon spp., Leishmania infantum, piroplasms and microfilariae at the LABOKLIN laboratory. The cats were also tested for FeLV and FIV by PCR. RESULTS Nearly half of the cats (158/332, 47.6%) were positive for at least one VBP. Hepatozoon spp. were detected in 25.6%, haemotropic Mycoplasma spp. in 22.9%, B. henselae in 9.3% and L. infantum in 2.1% of the cats. Male sex had a statistically significant association with test results for haemotropic Mycoplasma spp. (odds ratio 1.38 [1.21;1.57]); regionality with Hepatozoon spp., B. henseale and FIV; and seasonality with Hepatozoon spp., haemotropic Mycoplasma spp., L. infantum and FeLV (P ≤ 0.05 each). A strong positive correlation was reported for the amount of rainfall and the number of cats that tested positive for Hepatozoon spp. (ρ = 753, P = 0.05). None of the cats tested positive for A. phagocytophilum, A. platys, E. canis, Rickettsia spp., piroplasms, or microfilariae. Co-infections with multiple VBPs were detected in 56 out of 332 cats (16.9%). Thirty-one of the 332 cats included in the study (9.3%) tested positive for FeLV (6.9%) and for FIV (3.6%). In 20/31 cats (64.5%) that tested positive for FeLV/FIV, coinfections with VBP were detected (P = 0.048, OR 2.15 [0.99; 4.64]). CONCLUSIONS VBPs were frequently detected in stray cats in Zaragoza. In particular, regionality and seasonality had a statistically significant association with PCR results for most VBPs included in the study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sergio Villanueva-Saz
- Immunology Laboratory, Zaragoza Veterinary Faculty, Zaragoza University, Miguel Servet 177, 50013, Zaragoza, Spain.
- Animal Pathology Department, Zaragoza Veterinary Faculty, Zaragoza University, Miguel Servet 177, 50013, Zaragoza, Spain.
- Instituto Agroalimentario de Aragón‑IA2 (Universidad de Saragossa‑CITA), Zaragoza University, Miguel Servet 177, 50013, Zaragoza, Spain.
| | - Marivi Martínez
- Immunology Laboratory, Zaragoza Veterinary Faculty, Zaragoza University, Miguel Servet 177, 50013, Zaragoza, Spain
- Animal Pathology Department, Zaragoza Veterinary Faculty, Zaragoza University, Miguel Servet 177, 50013, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Ard M Nijhof
- Institute for Parasitology and Tropical Veterinary Medicine, Freie Universität Berlin, Robert-Von-Ostertag-Straße 7, 14163, Berlin, Germany
- Veterinary Centre for Resistance Research, Freie Universität Berlin, 14163, Berlin, Germany
| | - Bastian Gerst
- Institute for Parasitology and Tropical Veterinary Medicine, Freie Universität Berlin, Robert-Von-Ostertag-Straße 7, 14163, Berlin, Germany
- Veterinary Centre for Resistance Research, Freie Universität Berlin, 14163, Berlin, Germany
| | - Michaela Gentil
- LABOKLIN GmbH and Co. KG, Steubenstraße 4, 97688, Bad Kissingen, Germany
| | - Elisabeth Müller
- LABOKLIN GmbH and Co. KG, Steubenstraße 4, 97688, Bad Kissingen, Germany
| | - Antonio Fernández
- Immunology Laboratory, Zaragoza Veterinary Faculty, Zaragoza University, Miguel Servet 177, 50013, Zaragoza, Spain
- Animal Pathology Department, Zaragoza Veterinary Faculty, Zaragoza University, Miguel Servet 177, 50013, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Ana González
- Hospital Veterinario Universidad de Zaragoza, Zaragoza University, Miguel Servet 177, 50013, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Mohamed Sh Mohamud Yusuf
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Bari "Aldo Moro", 70010, Valenzano, Metropolitan City of Bari, Italy
| | - Grazia Greco
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Bari "Aldo Moro", 70010, Valenzano, Metropolitan City of Bari, Italy
| | - Maite Verde
- Immunology Laboratory, Zaragoza Veterinary Faculty, Zaragoza University, Miguel Servet 177, 50013, Zaragoza, Spain
- Animal Pathology Department, Zaragoza Veterinary Faculty, Zaragoza University, Miguel Servet 177, 50013, Zaragoza, Spain
- Instituto Agroalimentario de Aragón‑IA2 (Universidad de Saragossa‑CITA), Zaragoza University, Miguel Servet 177, 50013, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Giovanni Sgroi
- Department of Animal Health, Experimental Zooprophylatic Institute of Southern Italy, Portici, 80055, Naples, Italy
| | - Delia Lacasta
- Immunology Laboratory, Zaragoza Veterinary Faculty, Zaragoza University, Miguel Servet 177, 50013, Zaragoza, Spain
- Animal Pathology Department, Zaragoza Veterinary Faculty, Zaragoza University, Miguel Servet 177, 50013, Zaragoza, Spain
- Instituto Agroalimentario de Aragón‑IA2 (Universidad de Saragossa‑CITA), Zaragoza University, Miguel Servet 177, 50013, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Diana Marteles
- Immunology Laboratory, Zaragoza Veterinary Faculty, Zaragoza University, Miguel Servet 177, 50013, Zaragoza, Spain
- Animal Pathology Department, Zaragoza Veterinary Faculty, Zaragoza University, Miguel Servet 177, 50013, Zaragoza, Spain
- Instituto Agroalimentario de Aragón‑IA2 (Universidad de Saragossa‑CITA), Zaragoza University, Miguel Servet 177, 50013, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Michele Trotta
- Immunology Laboratory, Zaragoza Veterinary Faculty, Zaragoza University, Miguel Servet 177, 50013, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Ingo Schäfer
- LABOKLIN GmbH and Co. KG, Steubenstraße 4, 97688, Bad Kissingen, Germany.
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Kruppenbacher AS, Müller E, Aardema ML, Schäfer I, von Loewenich FD. Granulocytic anaplasmosis in cats from central Europe and molecular characterization of feline Anaplasma phagocytophilum strains by ankA gene, groEL gene and multilocus sequence typing. Parasit Vectors 2023; 16:348. [PMID: 37803346 PMCID: PMC10557162 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-023-05954-3] [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: 07/03/2023] [Accepted: 08/28/2023] [Indexed: 10/08/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Anaplasma phagocytophilum is a Gram-negative obligate intracellular bacterium that replicates in neutrophil granulocytes. It is transmitted by ticks of the Ixodes ricinus complex and causes febrile illness called granulocytic anaplasmosis primarily in humans, horses, dogs, sheep, cattle and goats. In comparison, clinically apparent disease has been described rarely in cats especially compared to dogs and horses. It is currently unknown whether cats are less susceptible to A. phagocytophilum or whether granulocytic anaplasmosis might be underdiagnosed in cats. METHODS To address this question, we examined clinical signs and laboratory findings in seven A. phagocytophilum infected cats from Germany and Switzerland. We then genetically characterized feline A. phagocytophilum strains and compared them to those from other hosts showing clinically apparent disease. For this purpose, ankA-based, groEL-based and multilocus sequence typing (MLST) were applied. Furthermore, the concordance between these typing methods was assessed. RESULTS Fever, lethargy and anorexia were the most common clinical signs in cats suffering from granulocytic anaplasmosis. The most frequent laboratory finding was thrombocytopenia. All three typing methods consistently indicated that the A. phagocytophilum strains found infecting cats are the same as those that cause disease in humans, dogs and horses. In general, the three typing methods applied exhibited high concordance. CONCLUSIONS The genetic characterization of the feline A. phagocytophilum strains indicates that strain divergence is not the explanation for the fact that granulocytic anaplasmosis is much less frequently diagnosed in cats than in dogs and horses. Otherwise, it may be possible that cats are less susceptible to the same strains than dogs and horse are. However, due to the unspecific clinical signs, it should be considered that granulocytic anaplasmosis may be under-diagnosed in cats.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Matthew L. Aardema
- Department of Biology, Montclair State University, Montclair, NJ USA
- Institute for Comparative Genomics, American Museum of Natural History, New York, NY USA
| | - Ingo Schäfer
- LABOKLIN GmbH and Co. KG, Bad Kissingen, Germany
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Schäfer I, Peukert A, Kerner K, Müller E. Vector-Borne Pathogens in Stray Cats in Eastern Germany (Thuringia). Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:2574. [PMID: 37627365 PMCID: PMC10451234 DOI: 10.3390/ani13162574] [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: 07/01/2023] [Revised: 08/01/2023] [Accepted: 08/08/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Bacterial, protozoal, and viral vector-borne pathogens (VBPs) can cause infections in cats. There is little information on feline VBP prevalence in Germany. Stray cats are frequently exposed to vectors but receive no veterinary care. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of selected VBPs in stray cats. EDTA blood and serum samples were taken from apparently healthy stray cats during a spay/neuter campaign in the federal state of Thuringia. Overall, 11/50 (22%) and 32/50 (64%) cats tested positive for at least one VBP by direct and indirect detection methods, respectively. PCR testing of EDTA blood detected hemotropic Mycoplasma spp. in 12% of cats, Hepatozoon spp. in 10%, and Anaplasma phagocytophilum in 4%. PCR testing for Rickettsia spp. and piroplasms was negative. IFAT on serum samples showed 46% of cats had detectable antibodies for Bartonella spp., 30% for Rickettsia spp., and 16% for A. phagocytophilum. The cats were additionally tested for feline coronavirus, FIV, and FeLV to identify potential risk factors for pathogen contact and/or infections. No correlation between FIV and FeLV status and VBP positivity was detected. Anaplasma phagocytophilum, Rickettsia spp., and Bartonella spp. have zoonotic potential, and surveillance is recommended in the context of the One Health approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ingo Schäfer
- LABOKLIN GmbH and Co. KG, Steubenstraße 4, 97688 Bad Kissingen, Germany (E.M.)
| | - Axel Peukert
- Small Animal Practice Oberweimar, Taubacher Straße 13, 99425 Weimar, Germany
| | - Katharina Kerner
- LABOKLIN GmbH and Co. KG, Steubenstraße 4, 97688 Bad Kissingen, Germany (E.M.)
| | - Elisabeth Müller
- LABOKLIN GmbH and Co. KG, Steubenstraße 4, 97688 Bad Kissingen, Germany (E.M.)
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Graham M, Ewing P, Whelan M. Acute Anaplasma phagocytophilum infection in a pediatric domestic cat. JFMS Open Rep 2023; 9:20551169231213505. [PMID: 38144712 PMCID: PMC10748583 DOI: 10.1177/20551169231213505] [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] [Indexed: 12/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Case summary A domestic shorthair cat estimated to be 4-6 weeks old was presented to a referral center for evaluation of lethargy, anorexia and diarrhea for a duration of 24 h. A feline vector-borne PCR panel, as well as a blood smear, examined by a board-certified pathologist, confirmed an Anaplasma phagocytophilum infection. Morulae were identified in both feline neutrophils and eosinophils. Treatment consisted of a 21-day course of liquid doxycycline. Clinical signs rapidly resolved and were not noted to recur. Relevance and novel information This case demonstrates that A phagocytophilum can infect cats as young as 4-6 weeks old. Doxycycline, as the antibiotic of choice for the treatment of A phagocytophilum infections, was used. Consistent with the literature, a rapid clinical improvement was detected. Anaplasmosis should be listed as a differential diagnosis in pediatric cats suffering from acute febrile illness with potential previous tick exposure (history of living outdoors) in order to provide proper treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Patty Ewing
- Angell Animal Medical Center, Boston, MA, USA
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Zitzer NC. The Greatness of Glass. Vet Clin North Am Small Anim Pract 2023; 53:29-52. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cvsm.2022.07.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
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Diniz PPV, Moura de Aguiar D. Ehrlichiosis and Anaplasmosis. Vet Clin North Am Small Anim Pract 2022; 52:1225-1266. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cvsm.2022.07.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
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Zhang J, Ma H, Ai J, Qi T, Kang M, Li J, Sun Y. Serological Analysis of IgG and IgM Antibodies against Anaplasma spp. in Various Animal Species of the Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:ani12192723. [PMID: 36230463 PMCID: PMC9559258 DOI: 10.3390/ani12192723] [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: 07/31/2022] [Revised: 09/29/2022] [Accepted: 10/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Anaplasma genus infects the blood cells of humans and animals by biting, causing zoonotic anaplasmosis. However, limited data are available on carrier animals for Anaplasma spp. antibodies in the Qinghai−Tibetan Plateau Area. Therefore, a serological indirect ELISA diagnostic method based on the major surface protein 5 (MSP5), derived from Anaplasma phagocytophilum, was developed in this study to analyze both IgG and IgM antibodies of Anaplasma spp. in a total of 3952 animals from the Qinghai−Tibetan Plateau, including yaks (Bos grunniens), cows (Bos taurus), cattle (Bos taurus domesticus), Tibetan sheep (Ovis aries), horses (Equus ferus caballus), pigs (Sus domesticus), chickens (Gallus gallus domesticus), donkeys (Equus asinus), stray dogs (Canis sp.), and stray cats (Felis sp.). The results showed that recombinant MSP5 protein was expressed and was successfully used to establish the indirect ELISA methods. The overall positivity for Anaplasma IgG and IgM antibodies was 14.6% (578/3952) and 7.9% (312/3952), respectively, and a total of 123 animals (3.1%) were both IgG- and IgM-positive. Moreover, the most prevalent Anaplasma IgG positivity was exhibited by donkeys (82.5%), followed by stray dogs, Tibetan sheep, pigs, chickens, horses, yaks, cows, cattle, and stray cats. The analysis for IgM antibody positivity revealed that IgM positivity was the most prevalent in the stray dogs (30.1%), followed by horses, yaks, Tibetan sheep, cows, stray cats, and cattle. Moreover, the results revealed significant differences (p < 0.05) at different altitudes in Anaplasma-specific IgG in the yaks, Tibetan sheep, and horses, and in IgM in the yaks and Tibetan sheep. In conclusion, this study is the first to demonstrate that yaks, cows, cattle, Tibetan sheep, horses, donkeys, stray dogs, stray cats, pigs, and chickens living in the Qinghai−Tibet Plateau are carrier animals for Anaplasma spp. IgG or IgM antibodies. The current findings provide valuable current data on the seroepidemiology of anaplasmosis in China and for plateau areas of the world.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinchao Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Plateau Ecology and Agriculture, Qinghai University, Xining 810016, China
- College of Agriculture and Animal Husbandry, Qinghai University, Xining 810016, China
| | - Hejia Ma
- State Key Laboratory of Plateau Ecology and Agriculture, Qinghai University, Xining 810016, China
- 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
- 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
- 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
- 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
- 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
| | - Yali Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Plateau Ecology and Agriculture, Qinghai University, Xining 810016, China
- 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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Schäfer I, Kohn B, Müller E. Anaplasma phagocytophilum in domestic cats from Germany, Austria and Switzerland and clinical/laboratory findings in 18 PCR-positive cats (2008-2020). J Feline Med Surg 2022; 24:290-297. [PMID: 34076536 PMCID: PMC10812253 DOI: 10.1177/1098612x211017459] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Anaplasma phagocytophilum is considered the most significant rickettsial pathogen affecting cats. The organism is transmitted by ticks of the species Ixodes ricinus in Central Europe and can cause granulocytic anaplasmosis in pets, wildlife and humans. The aims of this study were to assess the frequency of positive test results for A phagocytophilum in cats in Germany, Austria and Switzerland, as well as to evaluate clinical and laboratory findings in cats with positive PCR results. METHODS This study included the results of direct (PCR) and indirect detection methods (immunofluorescence antibody tests [IFAT]) requested by veterinarians in Germany, Austria and Switzerland between 2008 and 2020 from the LABOKLIN laboratory (Bad Kissingen, Germany). The veterinarians treating the PCR-positive cats were contacted by telephone to enquire about their clinical signs, laboratory findings, management and outcomes. RESULTS In total, 244/1636 cats (15%) tested positive by direct (PCR: n = 27/725 [4%]) and/or indirect detection methods (IFAT: n = 221/956 [23%]). In 18/26 cats with PCR results positive for A phagocytophilum, additional information about clinical signs, laboratory findings, treatment and outcome was obtained. Of these 18 cats, five had comorbidities independent of their infection with A phagocytophilum. The most common clinical signs in PCR-positive cats (total/without comorbidities) were lethargy (83%/92%), fever (83%/85%) and thrombocytopenia (61%/62%). Overall, more than half (57%) of the cats with and without comorbidities recovered clinically. CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE Infections with A phagocytophilum should be considered as differential diagnoses in cats with tick infestation, lethargy, fever and thrombocytopenia. The clinical signs and laboratory findings are consistent with published case reports in cats. Ectoparasite prophylaxis in cats is recommended throughout the entire year.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ingo Schäfer
- LABOKLIN, Bad Kissingen, Germany
- Clinic for Small Animals, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Barbara Kohn
- Clinic for Small Animals, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany
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11
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Molecular Detection of Tick-Borne Agents in Cats from Southeastern and Northern Brazil. Pathogens 2022; 11:pathogens11010106. [PMID: 35056054 PMCID: PMC8781600 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens11010106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2021] [Revised: 01/13/2022] [Accepted: 01/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Even though the epidemiology of tick-borne agents (TBA) in dogs has been extensively investigated around the world, the occurrence, vectors involved, and molecular identity of these agents in cats remains elusive in many regions. Among TBA, Ehrlichia, Anaplasma, Babesia, Cytauxzoon, and Hepatozoon are responsible for diseases with non-specific clinical signs in cats, making essential the use of molecular techniques for accurate diagnosis and proper treatment. The present work aimed to investigate the occurrence and molecular identity of tick-borne agents (Ehrlichia, Anaplasma, Babesia/Theileria, Cytauxzoon, and Hepatozoon) in cats from southeastern (states of São Paulo (SP) and Minas Gerais (MG)) and northern (state of Rondônia (RO)) Brazil. For this purpose, 390 blood samples were collected from domiciled cats in MG (n = 155), SP (n = 151), and RO(n = 84) states, submitted to DNA extraction and PCR assays for Ehrlichia spp. (dsb gene), Anaplasma spp. (rrs gene), piroplasmids (18S rRNA gene), and Hepatozoon spp. (18S rRNA gene), sequencing, and phylogenetic inferences. The overall positivity for Anaplasma spp., Ehrlichia spp., Babesia/Theileria spp., Cytauxzoon spp., and Hepatozoon spp. were 7.4% (12.3% (MG) and 6.6% (SP)), 2% (4.5% (MG) and 0.6% (SP)), 0.7% (0.6% (MG), 0.6% (SP) and 1.2% (RO)), 27.2% (41.9% (MG), 24.5% (SP) and 4.8% (RO), and 0%, respectively. The phylogenetic analysis grouped the obtained sequences with ‘Candidatus Anaplasma amazonensis’, A. platys, B. vogeli, and Cytauxzoon sp. previously detected in wild felids from Brazil. qPCR specific for E. canis based on the dsb gene confirmed the molecular identity of the detected ehrlichial agent. The present study expanded the list and geographical distribution of hemoparasites in cats. ‘Candidatus Anaplasma amazonensis’, recently detected in sloths from northern Brazil, was described for the first time in cats. This is the first report of piroplasmids infecting cats in northern Brazil. Coinfection by Cytauxzoon and other TBA (Ehrlichia, Anaplasma, and B. vogeli) reported in the present study raises the need for veterinary practitioners’ awareness of cats parasitized by multiple TBA.
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Álvarez-Fernández A, Maggi R, Martín-Valls GE, Baxarias M, Breitschwerdt EB, Solano-Gallego L. Prospective serological and molecular cross-sectional study focusing on Bartonella and other blood-borne organisms in cats from Catalonia (Spain). Parasit Vectors 2022; 15:6. [PMID: 34983610 PMCID: PMC8729136 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-021-05105-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2021] [Accepted: 11/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background There is limited clinical or epidemiological knowledge regarding Bartonella infection in cats, and no serological studies have compared the presence of antibodies against different Bartonella species. Moreover, there are limited feline Bartonella studies investigating co-infections with other vector-borne pathogens and the associated risk factors. Therefore, the objective of this study was to investigate Bartonella spp. infections and co-infections with other pathogens in cats from Barcelona (Spain) based on serological and/or molecular techniques and to determine associated risk factors. Methods We studied colony and owned cats (n = 135). Sera were tested for Bartonella henselae-, Bartonella quintana-, and Bartonella koehlerae-specific antibodies using endpoint in-house immunofluorescence antibody assays. Bartonella real-time PCR (qPCR) and conventional PCR (cPCR) were performed. In addition, cPCR followed by DNA sequencing was performed for other pathogenic organisms (Anaplasma, Babesia, Cytauxzoon, Ehrlichia, Hepatozoon, hemotropic Mycoplasma, and Theileria spp.). Results From 135 cats studied, 80.7% were seroreactive against at least one Bartonella species. Bartonella quintana, B. koehlerae, and B. henselae seroreactivity was 67.4, 77.0, and 80.7%, respectively. Substantial to almost perfect serological agreement was found between the three Bartonella species. Colony cats were more likely to be Bartonella spp.-seroreactive than owned cats. Moreover, cats aged ≤ 2 years were more likely to be Bartonella spp.-seroreactive. Bartonella spp. DNA was detected in the blood of 11.9% (n = 16) of cats. Cats were infected with B. henselae (n = 12), B. clarridgeiae (n = 3), and B. koehlerae (n = 1). Mycoplasma spp. DNA was amplified from 14% (n = 19) of cat blood specimens. Cats were infected with Mycoplasma haemofelis (n = 8), Candidatus M. haemominutum (n = 6), Candidatus Mycoplasma turicensis (n = 4), and Mycoplasma wenyonii (n = 1). Anaplasma, Babesia, Cytauxzoon, Ehrlichia spp., Hepatozoon, and Theileria spp. DNA was not amplified from any blood sample. Of the 16 Bartonella spp.-infected cats based on PCR results, six (37%) were co-infected with Mycoplasma spp. Conclusions Bartonella spp. and hemoplasma infections are prevalent in cats from the Barcelona area, whereas infection with Anaplasma spp., Babesia, Cytauxzoon, Ehrlichia spp., Hepatozoon, and Theileria infections were not detected. Co-infection with hemotropic Mycoplasma appears to be common in Bartonella-infected cats. To our knowledge, this study is the first to document M. wenyonii is infection in cats. Graphical Abstract ![]()
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Affiliation(s)
- Alejandra Álvarez-Fernández
- Department of Animal Medicine and Surgery, Facultat de Veterinària, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Cerdanyola del Valles, Spain
| | - Ricardo Maggi
- Department of Clinical Sciences and the Intracellular Pathogens Research Laboratory, Comparative Medicine Institute, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University (NCSU), Raleigh, NC, USA
| | - Gerard Eduard Martín-Valls
- Department of Animal Health and Anatomy, Facultat de Veterinària, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Cerdanyola del Valles, Spain
| | - Marta Baxarias
- Department of Animal Medicine and Surgery, Facultat de Veterinària, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Cerdanyola del Valles, Spain
| | - Edward Bealmear Breitschwerdt
- Department of Clinical Sciences and the Intracellular Pathogens Research Laboratory, Comparative Medicine Institute, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University (NCSU), Raleigh, NC, USA
| | - Laia Solano-Gallego
- Department of Animal Medicine and Surgery, Facultat de Veterinària, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Cerdanyola del Valles, Spain.
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Hart CE, Bhaskar JR, Reynolds E, Hermance M, Earl M, Mahoney M, Martinez A, Petzlova I, Esterly AT, Thangamani S. Community engaged tick surveillance and tickMAP as a public health tool to track the emergence of ticks and tick-borne diseases in New York. PLOS GLOBAL PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 2:e0000215. [PMID: 36962313 PMCID: PMC10022224 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgph.0000215] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2021] [Accepted: 05/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
A community engaged passive surveillance program was utilized to acquire ticks and associated information throughout New York state. Ticks were speciated and screened for several tick-borne pathogens. Of these ticks, only I. scapularis was commonly infected with pathogens of human relevance, including B. burgdorferi, B. miyamotoi, A. phagocytophilum, B. microti, and Powassan virus. In addition, the geographic and temporal distribution of tick species and pathogens was determined. This enabled the construction of a powerful visual analytical mapping tool, tickMAP to track the emergence of ticks and tick-borne pathogens in real-time. The public can use this tool to identify hot-spots of disease emergence, clinicians for supportive evidence during differential diagnosis, and researchers to better understand factors influencing the emergence of ticks and tick-borne diseases in New York. Overall, we have created a community-engaged tick surveillance program and an interactive visual analytical tickMAP that other regions could emulate to provide real-time tracking and an early warning for the emergence of tick-borne diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charles E Hart
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, New York, United States of America
- SUNY Center for Vector-Borne Diseases, SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, New York, United States of America
- Institute for Global Health and Translational Science, SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, New York, United States of America
| | - Jahnavi Reddy Bhaskar
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, New York, United States of America
- SUNY Center for Vector-Borne Diseases, SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, New York, United States of America
- Institute for Global Health and Translational Science, SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, New York, United States of America
| | - Erin Reynolds
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, New York, United States of America
- SUNY Center for Vector-Borne Diseases, SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, New York, United States of America
- Institute for Global Health and Translational Science, SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, New York, United States of America
| | - Meghan Hermance
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of South Alabama College of Medicine, Mobile, Alabama, United States of America
| | - Martin Earl
- Moonshot Team, Information Management and Technology, SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, New York, United States of America
| | - Matthew Mahoney
- Moonshot Team, Information Management and Technology, SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, New York, United States of America
| | - Ana Martinez
- Moonshot Team, Information Management and Technology, SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, New York, United States of America
| | - Ivona Petzlova
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, New York, United States of America
- SUNY Center for Vector-Borne Diseases, SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, New York, United States of America
- Institute for Global Health and Translational Science, SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, New York, United States of America
| | - Allen T Esterly
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, New York, United States of America
- SUNY Center for Vector-Borne Diseases, SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, New York, United States of America
- Institute for Global Health and Translational Science, SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, New York, United States of America
| | - Saravanan Thangamani
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, New York, United States of America
- SUNY Center for Vector-Borne Diseases, SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, New York, United States of America
- Institute for Global Health and Translational Science, SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, New York, United States of America
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Maksimović Z, Dervišević M, Zahirović A, Rifatbegović M. Seroprevalence of Anaplasma spp. and Ehrlichia spp. and molecular detection of Anaplasma phagocytophilum and Anaplasma platys in stray dogs in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Ticks Tick Borne Dis 2021; 13:101875. [PMID: 34894522 DOI: 10.1016/j.ttbdis.2021.101875] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2021] [Revised: 11/11/2021] [Accepted: 11/30/2021] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
Stray dogs may be highly exposed to vector-borne pathogens (VBPs), including zoonotic agents, and therefore may pose a high risk of spreading infections to other animals and humans. Among the Anaplasmataceae, Anaplasma phagocytophilum, A. platys and Ehrlichia canis are commonly identified species in dogs in Europe; however, information on the occurrence of these pathogens in canine populations from Bosnia and Herzegovina (B&H) is still lacking. Thus, the aim of this study was to determine the seroprevalence of Anaplasma spp. and Ehrlichia spp. in stray dogs in the Sarajevo region of B&H and to identify A. phagocytophilum, A. platys, E. canis and E. ewingii by molecular techniques. A total of 903 blood samples of stray dogs were screened by SNAP 4Dx Plus Test for the presence of antibodies against A. phagocytophilum/A. platys and E. canis/E. ewingii. Real-time PCR assays were performed for the detection of Anaplasmataceae, A. phagocytophilum, A. platys, E. canis and E. ewingii in seropositive dogs. Antibodies to A. phagocytophilum/A. platys and/or E. canis/E. ewingii were detected in 187 (20.7%) samples. Seroprevalence was highest for A. phagocytophilum/A. platys (184/903, 20.4%). Two dogs had antibodies to E. canis/E. ewingii, while one dog was found to have antibodies to A. phagocytophilum/A. platys and to E. canis/E. ewingii. Forty-eight (25.7%) of the 187 seropositive dogs examined by Real-time PCR were positive for Anaplasmataceae. A. phagocytophilum was detected in 45 (24%) samples, while one sample was positive for A. phagocytophilum and A. platys. Two samples positive for Anaplasmataceae tested negative in the species-specific PCRs. E. canis or E. ewingii could not be detected in any of the Ehrlichia-seropositive dogs. These findings highlight the need for dog health monitoring, improving the health and welfare of stray dog population, and establishment of effective surveillance systems to combat VBDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zinka Maksimović
- Department of Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, Veterinary Faculty, University of Sarajevo, Zmaja od Bosne 90, Sarajevo 71000, Bosnia and Herzegovina.
| | - Muamer Dervišević
- Veterinary Station "Divet", Stari Ilijaš b.b., Ilijaš, 71380, Bosnia and Herzegovina
| | - Amir Zahirović
- Department for Internal Diseases, Veterinary Faculty, University of Sarajevo, Zmaja od Bosne 90, Sarajevo 71000, Bosnia and Herzegovina
| | - Maid Rifatbegović
- Department of Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, Veterinary Faculty, University of Sarajevo, Zmaja od Bosne 90, Sarajevo 71000, Bosnia and Herzegovina
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Muz MN, Erat S, Mumcuoglu KY. Protozoan and Microbial Pathogens of House Cats in the Province of Tekirdag in Western Turkey. Pathogens 2021; 10:pathogens10091114. [PMID: 34578146 PMCID: PMC8466416 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens10091114] [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: 07/17/2021] [Revised: 08/27/2021] [Accepted: 08/27/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Domestic felines’ re-emerging infectious and neglected zoonotic diseases are a significant focus of global “One Health” efforts. This study aimed to rapidly diagnose 14 pathogens, including zoonoses by using PCR primers in 167 client-owned symptomatic cats, routinely accepted to the Veterinary Clinics of Tekirdag. The prevalence of pathogens investigated were as follows: Babesia canis canis (24%), Babesia microti (2.4%), Hepatozoon felis (10.8%), Cytauxzoon felis (6.6%), Bartonella henselae (40.1%), Anaplasma platys (30.5%), Anaplasma phagocytophilum (7.2%), Rickettsia felis (26.3%), Borrelia burgdorferi (21%), and hemotropic Mycoplasma sp. (11.4%). There was a significant difference between the prevalence of the pathogens (χ2 = 152.26, df = 9, p < 0.001). There was also a statistical difference between the gender of the cats in terms of the prevalence of all pathogens considered together (χ2 = 4.80, df = 1, p = 0.028), where the female cats showed a higher prevalence. This was not the case for the different age groups (χ2 = 2.92, df = 1, p = 0.088). The lowest infection was observed for B. microti (p < 0.001), while the highest infection was observed for B. henselae (p < 0.01). Leishmania donovani, Plasmodium spp., Ehrlichia chaffeensis, and Neoehrlichia mikurensis PCR test results were negative in all samples. In conclusion, house cats of Tekirdag are apparently highly susceptible to some neglected zoonoses important for “One Health”, and their prevalence in the region is most probably underestimated. Hence, applying PCR tests to assist fast clinic diagnosis in routine, may be an efficient option to protect the public as well as the cats from severe diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mustafa Necati Muz
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Namik Kemal, Tekirdag 59000, Turkey
- Correspondence:
| | - Serkan Erat
- Department of Animal Breeding and Husbandry, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kirikkale University, Kirikkale 71450, Turkey;
| | - Kosta Y. Mumcuoglu
- Parasitology Unit, Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, The Kuvin Center for the Study of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, Hadassah Medical School, The Hebrew University, Jerusalem 91120, Israel;
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Diakou A, Migli D, Dimzas D, Morelli S, Di Cesare A, Youlatos D, Lymberakis P, Traversa D. Endoparasites of European Wildcats ( Felis silvestris) in Greece. PATHOGENS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2021; 10:pathogens10050594. [PMID: 34068209 PMCID: PMC8153176 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens10050594] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2021] [Revised: 05/07/2021] [Accepted: 05/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
The European wildcat (Felis silvestris) is the only wild felid living in Greece. Wildcat populations are declining due to anthropogenic and phenological unfavourable conditions, and parasites may have an additional negative impact. In the present study, the occurrence of endoparasites in wildcats in Greece and the potential threats posed to wildcats, domestic animals, and humans in the study areas has been investigated. In a six-year period, 23 road-killed wildcats and 62 wildcat faecal samples were collected from different areas of the country. Necropsy for the detection of endoparasites and standard parasitological examinations of faecal samples were performed. Parasites were morphologically identified and, in selected cases, molecularly analysed. All necropsied wildcats (100%) were infected by three to 10 different parasite taxa, with the most prevalent being Taenia taeniaeformis (73.9%), Toxocara cati (60.9%), Angiostrongylus chabaudi (56.5%), Ancylostoma tubaeforme (39.1%), Cylicospirura spp. (34.8%), Troglostrongylus brevior (34.8%), and Capillaria aerophila (33.8%). Of the 62 faecal samples examined, 53 (85.5%) were positive for one or more parasite elements (larvae, eggs, or oocysts). The most frequent were T. cati (45.2%), A. chabaudi (29%), C. aerophila (24.2%), and Ancylostomatidae (17.7%). This is the first survey on endoparasites affecting wildcats in Greece. Some of the parasites here found are frequent in domestic and wild felids, while others, i.e., Oslerus rostratus and Cylicospirura petrowi, were described for the first time in the European wildcat. Most of them have a significant pathogenic potential, causing severe to hazardous diseases to infected felids and some, under specific circumstances, can also threaten human health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anastasia Diakou
- School of Veterinary Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece;
- Correspondence:
| | - Despina Migli
- School of Biology, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece; (D.M.); (D.Y.)
| | - Dimitris Dimzas
- School of Veterinary Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece;
| | - Simone Morelli
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University Teaching Veterinary Hospital, University of Teramo, 64100 Teramo, Italy; (S.M.); (A.D.C.); (D.T.)
| | - Angela Di Cesare
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University Teaching Veterinary Hospital, University of Teramo, 64100 Teramo, Italy; (S.M.); (A.D.C.); (D.T.)
| | - Dionisios Youlatos
- School of Biology, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece; (D.M.); (D.Y.)
| | - Petros Lymberakis
- Natural History Museum of Crete, School of Sciences and Engineering, University of Crete, Knossou Avenue, 71409 Irakleio, Greece;
| | - Donato Traversa
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University Teaching Veterinary Hospital, University of Teramo, 64100 Teramo, Italy; (S.M.); (A.D.C.); (D.T.)
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Rar V, Tkachev S, Tikunova N. Genetic diversity of Anaplasma bacteria: Twenty years later. INFECTION GENETICS AND EVOLUTION 2021; 91:104833. [PMID: 33794351 DOI: 10.1016/j.meegid.2021.104833] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2020] [Revised: 03/26/2021] [Accepted: 03/28/2021] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
The genus Anaplasma (family Anaplasmataceae, order Rickettsiales) includes obligate intracellular alphaproteobacteria that multiply within membrane-bound vacuoles and are transmitted by Ixodidae ticks to vertebrate hosts. Since the last reclassification of Anaplasmataceae twenty years ago, two new Anaplasma species have been identified. To date, the genus includes eight Anaplasma species (A. phagocytophilum, A. marginale, A. centrale, A. ovis, A. bovis, A. platys, A. odocoilei, and A. capra) and a large number of unclassified genovariants that cannot be assigned to known species. Members of the genus can cause infection in humans and a wide range of domestic animals with different degrees of severity. Long-term persistence which, in some cases, is manifested as cyclic bacteremia has been demonstrated for several Anaplasma species. Zoonotic potential has been shown for A. phagocytophilum, the agent of human granulocytic anaplasmosis, and for some other Anaplasma spp. that suggests a broader medical relevance of this genus. Genetic diversity of Anaplasma spp. has been intensively studied in recent years, and it has been shown that some Anaplasma spp. can be considered as a complex of genetically distinct lineages differing by geography, vectors, and host tropism. The aim of this review was to summarize the current knowledge concerning the natural history, pathogenic properties, and genetic diversity of Anaplasma spp. and some unclassified genovariants with particular attention to their genetic characteristics. The high genetic variability of Anaplasma spp. prompted us to conduct a detailed phylogenetic analysis for different Anaplasma species and unclassified genovariants, which were included in this review. The genotyping of unclassified genovariants has led to the identification of at least four distinct clades that might be considered in future as new candidate species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vera Rar
- Institute of Chemical Biology and Fundamental Medicine, SB RAS, Novosibirsk, Russian Federation.
| | - Sergey Tkachev
- Institute of Chemical Biology and Fundamental Medicine, SB RAS, Novosibirsk, Russian Federation
| | - Nina Tikunova
- Institute of Chemical Biology and Fundamental Medicine, SB RAS, Novosibirsk, Russian Federation
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Ecotyping of Anaplasma phagocytophilum from Wild Ungulates and Ticks Shows Circulation of Zoonotic Strains in Northeastern Italy. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:ani11020310. [PMID: 33530571 PMCID: PMC7911980 DOI: 10.3390/ani11020310] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2020] [Revised: 01/21/2021] [Accepted: 01/22/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Tick-borne infectious diseases represent a rising threat both for human and animal health, since they are emerging worldwide. Among the bacterial infections, Anaplasma phagocytophilum has been largely neglected in Europe. Despite its diffusion in ticks and animals, the ecoepidemiology of its genetic variants is not well understood. The latest studies identify four ecotypes of Anaplasma phagocytophilum in Europe, and only ecotype I has shown zoonotic potential. The aim of the present study was to investigate the genetic variants of Anaplasma phagocytophilum in wild ungulates, the leading reservoir species, and in feeding ticks, the main vector of infection. The analyzed samples were collected in northeastern Italy, the same area where the first Italian human cases of anaplasmosis in the country were reported. Using biomolecular tools and phylogenetic analysis, ecotypes I and II were detected in both ticks (Ixodes ricinus species) and wild ungulates. Specifically, ecotype II was mainly detected in roe deer and related ticks; and ecotype I, the potentially zoonotic variant, was detected in Ixodes ricinus ticks and also in roe deer, red deer, chamois, mouflon, and wild boar. These findings reveal not only the wide diffusion of Anaplasma phagocytophilum, but also the presence of zoonotic variants. Abstract Anaplasma phagocytophilum (A. phagocytophilum) is a tick-borne pathogen causing disease in both humans and animals. Human granulocytic anaplasmosis (HGA) is an emerging disease, but despite the remarkable prevalence in European ticks and wild animals, human infection appears underdiagnosed. Several genetic variants are circulating in Europe, including the zoonotic ecotype I. This study investigated A. phagocytophilum occurrence in wild ungulates and their ectoparasites in an area where HGA has been reported. Blood samples from wild ungulates and ectoparasites were screened by biomolecular methods targeting the mps2 gene. The groEL gene was amplified and sequenced to perform genetic characterization and phylogenetic analysis. A total of 188 blood samples were collected from different wild ungulates species showing an overall prevalence of 63.8% (88.7% in wild ruminants and 3.6% in wild boars). The prevalence of A. phagocytophilum DNA in ticks (manly Ixodes ricinus), and keds collected from wild ruminants was high, reflecting the high infection rates obtained in their hosts. Among ticks collected from wild boars (Hyalomma marginatum and Dermacentor marginatus) no DNA was detected. Phylogenetic analysis demonstrated the presence of ecotype I and II. To date, this is the first Italian report of ecotype I in alpine chamois, mouflon, and wild boar species. These findings suggest their role in HGA epidemiology, and the high prevalence detected in this study highlights that this human tick-borne disease deserves further attention.
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