1
|
Kędzierska-Mieszkowska S, Kędzierska B, Potrykus K. LIC_12757 from the pathogenic spirochaete Leptospira interrogans encodes an autoregulated ECF σ E-type factor. Vet Microbiol 2024; 293:110092. [PMID: 38615476 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetmic.2024.110092] [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: 01/07/2024] [Revised: 03/19/2024] [Accepted: 04/11/2024] [Indexed: 04/16/2024]
Abstract
ECF (extracytoplasmic function) σ factors, members of the σ70-family, are the largest class of alternative σ factors which are stimulated in the presence of specific signals and direct RNA polymerase to transcribe a defined subset of genes. Thanks to them, bacterial pathogens can effectively reprogram their gene expression and, consequently, survive in the host and establish infection in a relatively short time. The number of ECF σ factors encoded within bacterial genomes is different depending on a given species and it reflects the likelihood that these bacteria will encounter harsh environmental conditions. The genome of L. interrogans, a zoonotic pathogen responsible for leptospirosis, is predicted to encode 11 ECF σE-type factors, but none of them have been characterized biochemically to date and their functions are still unknown. Here, we focused on one of the leptospiral ECF σ factors, namely LIC_12757, which was previously found to be up-regulated at elevated temperatures and may be related to the expression of clpB encoding an important L. interrogans virulence factor. We report cloning of the coding sequence of the LIC_12757 gene, its expression with the pET system and biochemical characterization of LIC_12757. By performing EMSA and in vitro transcription assays, we provide strong evidence that LIC_12757 indeed functions as a transcriptional factor that enables RNA polymerase to bind to the specific σE-type promoter and to initiate transcription. Interestingly, we demonstrate that LIC_12757 is autoregulated at the transcriptional level. Our study is a first step towards determining key aspects of LIC_12757 function in pathogenic Leptospira.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Barbara Kędzierska
- Department of Bacterial Molecular Genetics, Faculty of Biology, University of Gdańsk, Gdańsk 80-308, Poland
| | - Katarzyna Potrykus
- Department of Bacterial Molecular Genetics, Faculty of Biology, University of Gdańsk, Gdańsk 80-308, Poland
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Suanes A, Macchi MV, Fernández F, Salaberry X, Moreira C, Gil AD. Seroprevalence and herd-level associated factors of pathogenic Leptospira spp. circulating locally in dairy cattle in Uruguay. Prev Vet Med 2024; 223:106097. [PMID: 38160485 DOI: 10.1016/j.prevetmed.2023.106097] [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: 03/21/2023] [Revised: 10/31/2023] [Accepted: 12/14/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024]
Abstract
Leptospirosis is a zoonotic disease of worldwide importance. In Uruguay, it is endemic in cattle and primarily affects people with occupational exposure to livestock. The aim of this study was to determine the national seroprevalence and associated factors of local pathogen Leptospires in dairy cattle. A cross-sectional study was carried out. Herds were stratified by size (1-50, 51-250, and > 250 cattle), and up to 60 dairy cows per herd were randomly selected. A total of 4269 serum samples from 101 dairy herds were analyzed by microscopic agglutination test (MAT). A two-stage sampling design was used to estimate population seroprevalence of Leptospira spp. In order to determine the factors associated with the disease, herds with at least 1 seropositive animal were considered as case herds. Seroprevalence of Leptospira was 27.80% with a 95% CI [21.06, 34.54] at the animal level and 86.92% with a 95% CI [80.00, 93.75] at the herd level. The serology confirms the predominance of serogroups Sejroe and Pomona in our herd with the presence of incidental leptospires infection, in smaller proportion, but with a wide distribution at farm level. The population size and purchasing replacement of cows on dairy farms were associated with infection at farm level. The serologic studies confirmed that exposure to Leptospira spp. is endemic in our herds, and the spreading over dairy herds. Although the movement of purchased females and the size of the herd were associated with the disease, more studies should be conducted, to better understand the epidemiology of the disease and to highlight the possible risks to public health, especially in rural workers, farmers and veterinarians.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alejandra Suanes
- División de Laboratorios Veterinarios, Ministerio de Ganadería, Agricultura y Pesca, Ruta 8 km 17, CP 12100 Montevideo, Uruguay.
| | - María V Macchi
- División de Laboratorios Veterinarios, Ministerio de Ganadería, Agricultura y Pesca, Ruta 8 km 17, CP 12100 Montevideo, Uruguay
| | - Federico Fernández
- Dirección de Servicios Ganaderos, Ministerio de Ganadería, Agricultura y Pesca, Ruta 8 km 17, CP 12100 Montevideo, Uruguay
| | - Ximena Salaberry
- División de Laboratorios Veterinarios, Ministerio de Ganadería, Agricultura y Pesca, Ruta 8 km 17, CP 12100 Montevideo, Uruguay
| | - Cintya Moreira
- Dirección de Servicios Ganaderos, Ministerio de Ganadería, Agricultura y Pesca, Ruta 8 km 17, CP 12100 Montevideo, Uruguay
| | - Andrés D Gil
- Departamento de Bioestadística, Facultad de Veterinaria, Ruta 8 km 18, CP 12100 Montevideo, Uruguay
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Kamaruzaman INA, Staton GJ, Ainsworth S, Carter SD, Evans NJ. Characterisation of Putative Outer Membrane Proteins from Leptospira borgpetersenii Serovar Hardjo-Bovis Identifies Novel Adhesins and Diversity in Adhesion across Genomospecies Orthologs. Microorganisms 2024; 12:245. [PMID: 38399649 PMCID: PMC10891613 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms12020245] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2023] [Revised: 01/06/2024] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Leptospirosis is a zoonotic bacterial disease affecting mammalian species worldwide. Cattle are a major susceptible host; infection with pathogenic Leptospira spp. represents a public health risk and results in reproductive failure and reduced milk yield, causing economic losses. The characterisation of outer membrane proteins (OMPs) from disease-causing bacteria dissects pathogenesis and underpins vaccine development. As most leptospire pathogenesis research has focused on Leptospira interrogans, this study aimed to characterise novel OMPs from another important genomospecies, Leptospira borgpetersenii, which has global distribution and is relevant to bovine and human diseases. Several putative L. borgpetersenii OMPs were recombinantly expressed, refolded and purified, and evaluated for function and immunogenicity. Two of these unique, putative OMPs (rLBL0972 and rLBL2618) bound to immobilised fibronectin, laminin and fibrinogen, which, together with structural and functional data, supports their classification as leptospiral adhesins. A third putative OMP (rLBL0375), did not exhibit saturable adhesion ability but, together with rLBL0972 and the included control, OmpL1, demonstrated significant cattle milk IgG antibody reactivity from infected cows. To dissect leptospire host-pathogen interactions further, we expressed alleles of OmpL1 and a novel multi-specific adhesin, rLBL2618, from a variety of genomospecies and surveyed their adhesion ability, with both proteins exhibiting divergences in extracellular matrix component binding specificity across synthesised orthologs. We also observed functional redundancy across different L. borgspetersenii OMPs which, together with diversity in function across genomospecies orthologs, delineates multiple levels of plasticity in adhesion that is potentially driven by immune selection and host adaptation. These data identify novel leptospiral proteins which should be further evaluated as vaccine and/or diagnostic candidates. Moreover, functional redundancy across leptospire surface proteins together with identified adhesion divergence across genomospecies further dissect the complex host-pathogen interactions of a genus responsible for substantial global disease burden.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Intan Noor Aina Kamaruzaman
- Department of Infection Biology and Microbiomes, Institute of Infection, Veterinary & Ecological Sciences, University of Liverpool, Leahurst Campus, Chester High Road, Neston CH64 7TE, UK; (I.N.A.K.); (G.J.S.); (S.A.); (S.D.C.)
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universiti Malaysia Kelantan, Locked Bag 36, Kota Bharu 16100, Malaysia
| | - Gareth James Staton
- Department of Infection Biology and Microbiomes, Institute of Infection, Veterinary & Ecological Sciences, University of Liverpool, Leahurst Campus, Chester High Road, Neston CH64 7TE, UK; (I.N.A.K.); (G.J.S.); (S.A.); (S.D.C.)
| | - Stuart Ainsworth
- Department of Infection Biology and Microbiomes, Institute of Infection, Veterinary & Ecological Sciences, University of Liverpool, Leahurst Campus, Chester High Road, Neston CH64 7TE, UK; (I.N.A.K.); (G.J.S.); (S.A.); (S.D.C.)
| | - Stuart D. Carter
- Department of Infection Biology and Microbiomes, Institute of Infection, Veterinary & Ecological Sciences, University of Liverpool, Leahurst Campus, Chester High Road, Neston CH64 7TE, UK; (I.N.A.K.); (G.J.S.); (S.A.); (S.D.C.)
| | - Nicholas James Evans
- Department of Infection Biology and Microbiomes, Institute of Infection, Veterinary & Ecological Sciences, University of Liverpool, Leahurst Campus, Chester High Road, Neston CH64 7TE, UK; (I.N.A.K.); (G.J.S.); (S.A.); (S.D.C.)
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Sohm C, Steiner J, Jöbstl J, Wittek T, Firth C, Steinparzer R, Desvars-Larrive A. A systematic review on leptospirosis in cattle: A European perspective. One Health 2023; 17:100608. [PMID: 37577054 PMCID: PMC10416059 DOI: 10.1016/j.onehlt.2023.100608] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2023] [Revised: 07/26/2023] [Accepted: 07/26/2023] [Indexed: 08/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Leptospirosis is a zoonotic disease which is globally distributed and represents a classic One Health issue that demands a comprehensive understanding of the hosts, transmission paths, and risk factors of transmission. Bovine leptospirosis often results in economic losses through its severe impact on reproduction performance while it threatens human health at human-cattle-environment interfaces. However, a clear analysis of the disease characteristics in European cattle is currently lacking. The objective of this review was to summarise the current knowledge on the epidemiology of bovine leptospirosis in Europe. We conducted a systematic literature review, screening four electronic databases, and filtered articles published between 2001 and 2021, in English, German, and French. Sixty-two articles were ultimately included in the review. The seroprevalence of leptospirosis in cattle was remarkably variable among studies, probably reflecting local variations but also heterogeneity in the study designs, laboratory methods, and sample sizes. Risk factors positively associated with the disease were diverse, related to local, environmental, and climatic parameters as well as farming practices. The most reported circulating Leptospira serogroups in European cattle were Sejroe (58.5%), Australis (41.5%), Grippotyphosa (41.5%), Icterohaemorrhagiae (37.7%), and Pomona (26.4%), which have also been associated with human infections worldwide. Abortion (58.6%) and fertility disorders (24.1%) were the most frequently reported signs of leptospirosis in European cattle and were generally associated with chronic infections. This work highlights several research gaps, including a lack of harmonisation in diagnostic methods, a lack of large-scale studies, and a lack of molecular investigations. Given that predictions regarding the climatic suitability for leptospirosis in Europe suggest an increase of leptospirosis risk it is important to raise awareness among stakeholders and motivate an integrated One Health approach to the prevention and control of this zoonotic disease in cattle and humans.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Cynthia Sohm
- VetFarm, Department of Farm Animals and Veterinary Public Health, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Kremesberg 13, 2563 Pottenstein, Austria
- Unit of Veterinary Public Health and Epidemiology, Department of Farm Animals and Veterinary Public Health, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Veterinärplatz 1, 1210 Vienna, Austria
- University Clinic for Ruminants, Department of Farm Animals and Veterinary Public Health, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Veterinärplatz 1, 1210 Vienna, Austria
| | - Janina Steiner
- Unit of Veterinary Public Health and Epidemiology, Department of Farm Animals and Veterinary Public Health, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Veterinärplatz 1, 1210 Vienna, Austria
| | - Julia Jöbstl
- Unit of Veterinary Public Health and Epidemiology, Department of Farm Animals and Veterinary Public Health, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Veterinärplatz 1, 1210 Vienna, Austria
| | - Thomas Wittek
- University Clinic for Ruminants, Department of Farm Animals and Veterinary Public Health, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Veterinärplatz 1, 1210 Vienna, Austria
| | - Clair Firth
- Unit of Veterinary Public Health and Epidemiology, Department of Farm Animals and Veterinary Public Health, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Veterinärplatz 1, 1210 Vienna, Austria
| | - Romana Steinparzer
- Institute for Veterinary Disease Control, Austrian Agency for Health and Food Safety (AGES), Robert Koch-Gasse 17, 2340 Mödling, Austria
| | - Amélie Desvars-Larrive
- VetFarm, Department of Farm Animals and Veterinary Public Health, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Kremesberg 13, 2563 Pottenstein, Austria
- Unit of Veterinary Public Health and Epidemiology, Department of Farm Animals and Veterinary Public Health, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Veterinärplatz 1, 1210 Vienna, Austria
- Complexity Science Hub Vienna, Josefstädter Straße 39, 1080 Vienna, Austria
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Menamvar S, Kumar KV, Alamuri A, Kumar E, Swamy HM, Govindaraj G, Nagalingam M, Belaganahally VM, Reddy YN, Shome BR, Balamurugan V. Seroprevalence and associated risk factors of leptospirosis in bovine dairy farms in Telangana state, India. Trop Anim Health Prod 2023; 55:352. [PMID: 37804390 DOI: 10.1007/s11250-023-03736-8] [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: 12/26/2022] [Accepted: 09/12/2023] [Indexed: 10/09/2023]
Abstract
The current cross-sectional study aimed to determine the seroprevalence of Leptospira infection in bovine dairy farms in the Telangana state of India, as well as the associated risk factors, in order to implement effective preventive measures for disease control. A total of 469 blood samples were collected from 67 herds/farms in different areas, covering 20 administrative districts in the state. These samples consisted of 253 from cattle and 216 from buffaloes. Questionnaires were used to collect data on host and epidemiological factors. The collected sera were tested using the gold standard serological test, the Microscopic Agglutination Test (MAT), which employed a panel of 18 reference serovars for Leptospira exposure. The statistical analysis of epidemiological data was carried out to identify the risk factors associated with Leptospira exposure. The overall observed seroprevalence at the animal and farm levels was 41.4% and 77.6%, respectively. The most prevalent anti-leptospiral antibodies were observed against the serogroups Icterohaemorrhagiae (32.4%), Pomona (22.2%), Javanica (19.1%), Australis (17.0%), Bataviae (15.5%), Autumnalis (12.9%), Hebdomadis (12.9%), and others, in the total reacting samples. At the animal level, the significant risk factors associated with exposure to Leptospira species were breed (p = 0.03) and health status (p = 0.03). Furthermore, the multivariate statistical analysis of farm factors revealed that farm size (p = 0.05), presence of dogs (p = 0.04) and rodents (p = 0.01) on the farm, use of fodder from wet soils (p = 0.04), and proximity to water bodies (p = 0.04) were significantly associated with exposure to Leptospira in the studied region. This study provides the first report from India highlighting the important risk factors at the herd/farm and animal level associated with Leptospira infections in cattle and buffaloes. The findings contribute to strengthening the one-health strategy by facilitating the design and planning of appropriate control measures to alleviate the burden of leptospirosis in bovines.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sonali Menamvar
- Indian Council of Agricultural Research -National Institute of Veterinary Epidemiology and Disease Informatics (ICAR-NIVEDI), Yelahanka, Post Box No. 6450, Bengaluru, 560 064, Karnataka, India
- (KVAFSU), Veterinary College, Hebbal, Bengaluru, 560024, Karnataka, India
- P.V. Narsimha Rao Telangana Veterinary University, Rajendra Nagar, Hyderabad, 500030, Telangana, India
| | - Kirubakaran Vinod Kumar
- Indian Council of Agricultural Research -National Institute of Veterinary Epidemiology and Disease Informatics (ICAR-NIVEDI), Yelahanka, Post Box No. 6450, Bengaluru, 560 064, Karnataka, India
| | - Anusha Alamuri
- Indian Council of Agricultural Research -National Institute of Veterinary Epidemiology and Disease Informatics (ICAR-NIVEDI), Yelahanka, Post Box No. 6450, Bengaluru, 560 064, Karnataka, India
| | - Enumula Kumar
- P.V. Narsimha Rao Telangana Veterinary University, Rajendra Nagar, Hyderabad, 500030, Telangana, India
| | - H Manjunath Swamy
- Indian Council of Agricultural Research -National Institute of Veterinary Epidemiology and Disease Informatics (ICAR-NIVEDI), Yelahanka, Post Box No. 6450, Bengaluru, 560 064, Karnataka, India
| | - Gurrappanaidu Govindaraj
- Indian Council of Agricultural Research -National Institute of Veterinary Epidemiology and Disease Informatics (ICAR-NIVEDI), Yelahanka, Post Box No. 6450, Bengaluru, 560 064, Karnataka, India
| | - Mohandoss Nagalingam
- Indian Council of Agricultural Research -National Institute of Veterinary Epidemiology and Disease Informatics (ICAR-NIVEDI), Yelahanka, Post Box No. 6450, Bengaluru, 560 064, Karnataka, India
| | | | - Yella Narasimha Reddy
- P.V. Narsimha Rao Telangana Veterinary University, Rajendra Nagar, Hyderabad, 500030, Telangana, India
| | - Bibek Ranjan Shome
- Indian Council of Agricultural Research -National Institute of Veterinary Epidemiology and Disease Informatics (ICAR-NIVEDI), Yelahanka, Post Box No. 6450, Bengaluru, 560 064, Karnataka, India
| | - Vinayagamurthy Balamurugan
- Indian Council of Agricultural Research -National Institute of Veterinary Epidemiology and Disease Informatics (ICAR-NIVEDI), Yelahanka, Post Box No. 6450, Bengaluru, 560 064, Karnataka, India.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
AAA+ Molecular Chaperone ClpB in Leptospira interrogans: Its Role and Significance in Leptospiral Virulence and Pathogenesis of Leptospirosis. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21186645. [PMID: 32932775 PMCID: PMC7555560 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21186645] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2020] [Revised: 08/31/2020] [Accepted: 09/08/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Bacterial ClpB is an ATP-dependent disaggregase that belongs to the Hsp100/Clp subfamily of the AAA+ ATPases and cooperates with the DnaK chaperone system in the reactivation of aggregated proteins, as well as promotes bacterial survival under adverse environmental conditions, including thermal and oxidative stresses. In addition, extensive evidence indicates that ClpB supports the virulence of numerous bacteria, including pathogenic spirochaete Leptospira interrogans responsible for leptospirosis in animals and humans. However, the specific function of ClpB in leptospiral virulence still remains to be fully elucidated. Interestingly, ClpB was predicted as one of the L. interrogans hub proteins interacting with human proteins, and pathogen–host protein interactions are fundamental for successful invasion of the host immune system by bacteria. The aim of this review is to discuss the most important aspects of ClpB’s function in L. interrogans, including contribution of ClpB to leptospiral virulence and pathogenesis of leptospirosis, a zoonotic disease with a significant impact on public health worldwide.
Collapse
|
7
|
Kędzierska-Mieszkowska S, Potrykus K, Arent Z, Krajewska J. Identification of σ E-Dependent Promoter Upstream of clpB from the Pathogenic Spirochaete Leptospira interrogans by Applying an E. coli Two-Plasmid System. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20246325. [PMID: 31847479 PMCID: PMC6941012 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20246325] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2019] [Revised: 12/10/2019] [Accepted: 12/13/2019] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
There is limited information on gene expression in the pathogenic spirochaete Leptospira interrogans and genetic mechanisms controlling its virulence. Transcription is the first step in gene expression that is often determined by environmental effects, including infection-induced stresses. Alterations in the environment result in significant changes in the transcription of many genes, allowing effective adaptation of Leptospira to mammalian hosts. Thus, promoter and transcriptional start site identification are crucial for determining gene expression regulation and for the understanding of genetic regulatory mechanisms existing in Leptospira. Here, we characterized the promoter region of the L. interrogans clpB gene (clpBLi) encoding an AAA+ molecular chaperone ClpB essential for the survival of this spirochaete under thermal and oxidative stresses, and also during infection of the host. Primer extension analysis demonstrated that transcription of clpB in L. interrogans initiates at a cytidine located 41 bp upstream of the ATG initiation codon, and, to a lesser extent, at an adenine located 2 bp downstream of the identified site. Transcription of both transcripts was heat-inducible. Determination of clpBLi transcription start site, combined with promoter transcriptional activity assays using a modified two-plasmid system in E. coli, revealed that clpBLi transcription is controlled by the ECF σE factor. Of the ten L. interrogans ECF σ factors, the factor encoded by LIC_12757 (LA0876) is most likely to be the key regulator of clpB gene expression in Leptospira cells, especially under thermal stress. Furthermore, clpB expression may be mediated by ppGpp in Leptospira.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sabina Kędzierska-Mieszkowska
- Department of General and Medical Biochemistry, University of Gdańsk, Faculty of Biology, 80-308 Gdańsk, Poland;
- Correspondence: ; Tel./Fax: +48-58-523-6064
| | - Katarzyna Potrykus
- Department of Bacterial Molecular Genetics, Faculty of Biology, University of Gdańsk, 80-308 Gdańsk, Poland;
| | - Zbigniew Arent
- University Centre of Veterinary Medicine, University of Agriculture in Krakow, 30-059 Krakow, Poland;
| | - Joanna Krajewska
- Department of General and Medical Biochemistry, University of Gdańsk, Faculty of Biology, 80-308 Gdańsk, Poland;
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Pyskun A, Ukhovskyi V, Pyskun O, Nedosekov V, Kovalenko V, Nychyk S, Sytiuk M, Iwaniak W. Presence of Antibodies Against Leptospira interrogans Serovar hardjo in Serum Samples from Cattle in Ukraine. Pol J Microbiol 2019; 68:295-302. [PMID: 31880874 PMCID: PMC7260633 DOI: 10.33073/pjm-2019-031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2019] [Revised: 04/15/2019] [Accepted: 05/01/2019] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
The article presents data on serological studies of 573 sera samples of cattle that were collected from the farms affected by leptospirosis in different regions of Ukraine in the period of 2014-2015. Samples were investigated by the microscopic agglutination test (MAT), which was conducted within eight serological groups of Leptospira and nine serovars: Sejroe (serovars polonica and hardjo), Hebdomadis (serovar kabura), Tarassovi (serovar tarassovi), Pomona (serovar pomona), Grippotyphosa (serovar grippotyphosa), Canicola (serovar canicola), Icterohaemorrhagiae (serovar copenhageni), and Australis (serovar bratislava). The circulation of L. interrogans serovar hardjo among cattle has been observed in all 11 regions of Ukraine investigated within 25.8-60.0% of the leptospirosis-positive serum samples in these regions. Antibodies in the cattle sera against serovar hardjo (serogroup Sejroe) were detected in 139 of the 370 cows reacting positively in MAT. Overall, they were detected in 24.3% animals out of the total of 573 cows investigated. These are the preliminary results, however, in our opinion, they should allow to include the serovar hardjo in a standard panel of strains for MAT in Ukraine. The article presents data on serological studies of 573 sera samples of cattle that were collected from the farms affected by leptospirosis in different regions of Ukraine in the period of 2014–2015. Samples were investigated by the microscopic agglutination test (MAT), which was conducted within eight serological groups of Leptospira and nine serovars: Sejroe (serovars polonica and hardjo), Hebdomadis (serovar kabura), Tarassovi (serovar tarassovi), Pomona (serovar pomona), Grippotyphosa (serovar grippotyphosa), Canicola (serovar canicola), Icterohaemorrhagiae (serovar copenhageni), and Australis (serovar bratislava). The circulation of L. interrogans serovar hardjo among cattle has been observed in all 11 regions of Ukraine investigated within 25.8–60.0% of the leptospirosis-positive serum samples in these regions. Antibodies in the cattle sera against serovar hardjo (serogroup Sejroe) were detected in 139 of the 370 cows reacting positively in MAT. Overall, they were detected in 24.3% animals out of the total of 573 cows investigated. These are the preliminary results, however, in our opinion, they should allow to include the serovar hardjo in a standard panel of strains for MAT in Ukraine.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anton Pyskun
- State Scientific and Research Institute of Laboratory Diagnostics and Veterinary and Sanitary Expertise , Kyiv , Ukraine
| | - Vitalii Ukhovskyi
- Institute of Veterinary Medicine of the National Academy of Agrarian Sciences , Kyiv , Ukraine
| | - Olena Pyskun
- State Scientific and Research Institute of Laboratory Diagnostics and Veterinary and Sanitary Expertise , Kyiv , Ukraine
| | - Vitalii Nedosekov
- Institute of Veterinary Medicine of the National Academy of Agrarian Sciences , Kyiv , Ukraine
| | - Vyacheslav Kovalenko
- State Scientific Control Institute of Biotechnology and Strains of Microorganisms , Kyiv , Ukraine
| | - Serhiy Nychyk
- Institute of Veterinary Medicine of the National Academy of Agrarian Sciences , Kyiv , Ukraine
| | - Mykola Sytiuk
- Institute of Veterinary Medicine of the National Academy of Agrarian Sciences , Kyiv , Ukraine
| | | |
Collapse
|
9
|
Isolation and Identification of Putative Protein Substrates of the AAA+ Molecular Chaperone ClpB from the Pathogenic Spirochaete Leptospira interrogans. Int J Mol Sci 2018; 19:ijms19041234. [PMID: 29670056 PMCID: PMC5979558 DOI: 10.3390/ijms19041234] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2018] [Revised: 04/13/2018] [Accepted: 04/15/2018] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Bacterial ClpB is an ATP-dependent Hsp100 chaperone that reactivates aggregated proteins in cooperation with the DnaK chaperone system and promotes survival of bacteria under stress conditions. A large number of publications also indicate that ClpB supports the virulence of bacteria, including a pathogenic spirochaete Leptospira interrogans responsible for leptospirosis in both animals and humans. However, the exact role of ClpB in bacterial pathogenicity remains poorly characterized. It can be assumed that ClpB, due to its role as the molecular chaperone, mediates refolding of essential bacterial proteins, including the known virulence factors, which may become prone to aggregation under infection-induced stresses. In this study, we identified putative substrates of ClpB from L. interrogans (ClpBLi). For this purpose, we used a proteomic approach combining the ClpB-Trap affinity pull-down assays, Liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS-MS/MS), and bioinformatics analyses. Most of the identified proteins were enzymes predominantly associated with major metabolic pathways like the tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle, glycolysis–gluconeogenesis and amino acid and fatty acid metabolism. Based on our proteomic study, we suggest that ClpB can support the virulence of L.interrogans by protecting the conformational integrity and catalytic activity of multiple metabolic enzymes, thus maintaining energy homeostasis in pathogen cells.
Collapse
|
10
|
Detection of bovine carriers of Leptospira by serological, bacteriological, and molecular tools. Trop Anim Health Prod 2018; 50:883-888. [PMID: 29349716 DOI: 10.1007/s11250-018-1512-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2017] [Accepted: 01/05/2018] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Bovine leptospirosis is an important infectious disease that causes reproductive problems and economic risks, particularly in the tropics. The present study aimed to determine the extent of Leptospira infection among bovines on a slaughterhouse from Rio de Janeiro, Brazil via serological, bacteriological, and molecular tests. Two hundred eight bovines were examined in total, and we obtained 208 blood samples for serology, 198 urine samples collected via direct bladder puncture for polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and culture, 208 kidney samples (one from each animal) for PCR and culture, and 92 vaginal fluid samples from sterile swabs for PCR and culture. Serology demonstrated that 77/208 (37%) of the animals presented anti-Leptospira antibodies. Serogroup Sejroe was by far the most common. One hundrd thirty-three animals (63.9%) were PCR positive in at least one of the tested samples and were considered as Leptospira carriers. Furthermore, ten isolates were obtained by pure culture, all of them from urine samples. Bovine leptospirosis is widely prevalent, and the occurrence of renal carriers was unexpectedly much higher than generally reported.
Collapse
|
11
|
Barrett D, Parr M, Fagan J, Johnson A, Tratalos J, Lively F, Diskin M, Kenny D. Prevalence of Bovine Viral Diarrhoea Virus (BVDV), Bovine Herpes Virus 1 (BHV 1), Leptospirosis and Neosporosis, and associated risk factors in 161 Irish beef herds. BMC Vet Res 2018; 14:8. [PMID: 29304782 PMCID: PMC5756399 DOI: 10.1186/s12917-017-1324-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2017] [Accepted: 12/19/2017] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND There are limited data available, in Ireland or elsewhere, to determine the extent of exposure to various endemic diseases among beef cows and factors associated with exposure to causative pathogens. The objectives of this study were to determine the herd and within herd prevalence of Bovine Viral Diarrhoea Virus (BVDV), Bovine Herpes Virus 1 (BHV-1), Leptospirosis and Neosporosis in a large scale study of commercial beef herds on the island of Ireland, and to examine herd level factors associated with exposure to these pathogens in these herds. RESULTS The average number of cows tested per herd was 35.5 (median 30). Herd level seroprevalence to Bovine Herpesvirus-1(BHV-1), Bovine Viral-Diarrhoea Virus (BVDV), Leptospirosis and Neosporosis was 90%, 100%, 91% and 67%, respectively, while the mean within herd prevalence for the these pathogens was 40%, 77.7%, 65.7% and 5.7%, respectively. The study confirms that the level of seroconversion for the four pathogens of interest increases with herd size. There was also evidence that exposure to one pathogen may increase the risk of exposure to another pathogen. CONCLUSIONS Herd level seroprevalences were in excess of 90% for BVDV, BHV-1 and Leptosporosis. Larger herds were subject to increased exposure to disease pathogens. This study suggests that exposure to several pathogens may be associated with the further exposure to other pathogens.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Damien Barrett
- Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine, SAT Division, Admin Building, Backweston, Celbridge, Co. Kildare, Ireland.
| | - Mervyn Parr
- Teagasc, Grange, Dunsany, Trim, Co. Meath, Ireland
| | - John Fagan
- Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Athlone RVL, Co. Westmeath, Athlone, Ireland
| | - Alan Johnson
- Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Limerick RVL, Limerick, Co. Limerick, Ireland
| | - Jamie Tratalos
- Centre for Veterinary Epidemiology and Risk Analysis, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin 4, Ireland
| | - Francis Lively
- Agri-Food and Biosciences Institute, 18a Newforge Lane, Belfast, Co Antrim, BT9 5PX, Northern Ireland
| | | | - David Kenny
- Teagasc, Grange, Dunsany, Trim, Co. Meath, Ireland
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Bovine leptospirosis in urban and peri-urban dairy farming in low-income countries: a "One Health" issue? Acta Vet Scand 2017; 59:83. [PMID: 29233193 PMCID: PMC5727926 DOI: 10.1186/s13028-017-0352-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2017] [Accepted: 12/07/2017] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Global trends in urbanization are increasing the spread of neglected zoonotic infections such as leptospirosis, and reducing the number of human cases of leptospirosis is best accomplished by controlling the infection in the animal reservoir. The aim of this study was to determine the seroprevalence of Leptospira borgpetersenii serovar Hardjo and L. interrogans serovar Hardjo (L. Hardjo) exposure and to assess the associated risk factors for infection in small-scale dairy farming in the urban and peri-urban area of Dushanbe, Tajikistan. The true individual seroprevalence among the dairy cows was 13%, and the level of seroprevalence was positively associated with older cows and with communal grazing practices. The study shows that dairy cows are commonly exposed to L. Hardjo in the study region, and this constitutes a public health risk and demonstrates the importance of including urban and peri-urban areas, where large numbers of humans and animals coexist, when investigating zoonotic infections and when planning and implementing control measures for cattle-associated leptospirosis.
Collapse
|
13
|
Miyama T, Watanabe E, Ogata Y, Urushiyama Y, Kawahara N, Makita K. Herd-level risk factors associated with Leptospira Hardjo infection in dairy herds in the southern Tohoku, Japan. Prev Vet Med 2017; 149:15-20. [PMID: 29290296 DOI: 10.1016/j.prevetmed.2017.11.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2017] [Revised: 11/07/2017] [Accepted: 11/07/2017] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
A cross-sectional study was designed to generate information on the herd level prevalence and the risk factors for Leptospira serovar Hardjo (L. Hardjo) in Yamagata, the southern Tohoku, Japan. Bulk tank milk samples from 109 dairy herds were used to test the herd level sero-prevalence of L. Hardjo using a commercial ELISA kit, which detects both L. interrogans serovar Hardjo and L. borgpetersenii serovar Hardjo. A questionnaire survey was conducted at the sampled farms, and univariable and multivariable analyses were performed. Spatial clustering of L. Hardjo at the herd level was examined using spatial scan statistics. Seventy-one herds were found to be positive for L. Hardjo, and the apparent herd prevalence was 65.1% (95% CI: 56.2-74.1%). The risk factors for sero-positivity were larger herd size (p=0.004) and cows with a history of staying in Hokkaido (p <0.001). The spatial scan statistic detected a most likely cluster (relative risk=1.87, log likelihood ratio=9.93, radius=13.70km, p<0.01) in the southern part of the study area where there are large herd sizes and farm density is high. This study revealed that L. Hardjo is prevalent throughout Yamagata, and large scale herd owners introducing cows from Hokkaido in particular should be aware of the risk of infection.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Takeshi Miyama
- Veterinary Epidemiology Unit, Division of Health and Environment Sciences, Graduate School of Veterinary Medicine, Rakuno Gakuen University, 582 Bunkyodai Midorimachi, Ebetsu, Hokkaido 069-8501, Japan; Yamagata Prefecture Agricultural Mutual Aid Association, 1333 Koseki, Tendo, Yamagata, 994-8511, Japan
| | - Eiji Watanabe
- Yamagata Prefecture Agricultural Mutual Aid Association, 1333 Koseki, Tendo, Yamagata, 994-8511, Japan
| | - Yoshimi Ogata
- Yamagata Prefecture Agricultural Mutual Aid Association, 1333 Koseki, Tendo, Yamagata, 994-8511, Japan
| | - Yoshiro Urushiyama
- Yamagata Prefecture Agricultural Mutual Aid Association, 1333 Koseki, Tendo, Yamagata, 994-8511, Japan
| | - Naoya Kawahara
- Yamagata Prefecture Agricultural Mutual Aid Association, 1333 Koseki, Tendo, Yamagata, 994-8511, Japan
| | - Kohei Makita
- Veterinary Epidemiology Unit, Division of Health and Environment Sciences, Graduate School of Veterinary Medicine, Rakuno Gakuen University, 582 Bunkyodai Midorimachi, Ebetsu, Hokkaido 069-8501, Japan.
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Velasova M, Damaso A, Prakashbabu BC, Gibbons J, Wheelhouse N, Longbottom D, Van Winden S, Green M, Guitian J. Herd-level prevalence of selected endemic infectious diseases of dairy cows in Great Britain. J Dairy Sci 2017; 100:9215-9233. [PMID: 28843682 DOI: 10.3168/jds.2016-11863] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2016] [Accepted: 05/14/2017] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
To implement appropriate and effective disease control programs at the national level, up-to-date and unbiased information on disease frequency is needed. The aim of this study was to estimate the prevalence of selected endemic infectious diseases in the population of dairy herds in Great Britain. Bulk milk tank (BMT) samples from 225 randomly selected dairy farms, stratified by region and herd size, were tested for antibodies against bovine viral diarrhea virus (BVDV), bovine herpesvirus type 1, Mycobacterium avium ssp. paratuberculosis, Leptospira Hardjo, Salmonella spp., Coxiella burnetii, Fasciola hepatica, Neospora caninum, and Ostertagia ostertagi. Furthermore, the presence of BVDV, C. burnetii, and Chlamydia-like organisms was determined by PCR. The apparent herd prevalence was estimated as a weighted proportion of positive herds. The true prevalence was calculated when a test was used with known test characteristics for the cut-off value used. Among unvaccinated herds, the true prevalence of BMT antibodies against BVDV was estimated at 66% [95% confidence interval (CI): 56-77%], M. avium ssp. paratuberculosis 68% (95% CI: 59-77%), bovine herpesvirus type 1 62% (95% CI: 52-73%), Leptospira Hardjo 47% (95% CI: 34-60%), and Salmonella spp. 48% (95% CI: 39-56%). The apparent prevalence of BMT antibodies against C. burnetii was 80% (95% CI: 75-85%), F. hepatica 55% (95% CI: 48-62%), N. caninum 46% (95% CI: 38-54%), and O. ostertagi 95% (95% CI: 91-98%). The BVDV, C. burnetii, and Chlamydia-like antigens were detected in 5 (95% CI: 2-9%), 29 (95% CI: 21-36%), and 31% (95% CI: 24-38%) of herds, respectively. Our results show that dairy cows across GB are frequently exposed to the studied pathogens, which are endemic at high levels with some geographical variations. These prevalence estimates provide a much-needed basis to assess whether nationwide control programs for the studied pathogens are justified by their potential economic, environmental, and public health implications. Should surveillance and control programs be initiated, the estimates presented here are a baseline against which progress can be assessed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Martina Velasova
- Veterinary Epidemiology, Economics and Public Health Group, Department of Pathobiology and Population Science, Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, Hertfordshire, AL9 7TA United Kingdom.
| | - Angela Damaso
- Veterinary Epidemiology, Economics and Public Health Group, Department of Pathobiology and Population Science, Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, Hertfordshire, AL9 7TA United Kingdom
| | - Bhagyalakshmi Chengat Prakashbabu
- Veterinary Epidemiology, Economics and Public Health Group, Department of Pathobiology and Population Science, Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, Hertfordshire, AL9 7TA United Kingdom
| | - Jenny Gibbons
- AHDB Dairy, Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board, Stoneleigh Park, Kenilworth, Warwickshire, CV8 2TL United Kingdom
| | - Nick Wheelhouse
- Moredun Research Institute, Pentlands Science Park, Bush Loan, Penicuik, Midlothian EH26 0PZ, United Kingdom
| | - David Longbottom
- Moredun Research Institute, Pentlands Science Park, Bush Loan, Penicuik, Midlothian EH26 0PZ, United Kingdom
| | - Steven Van Winden
- Veterinary Epidemiology, Economics and Public Health Group, Department of Pathobiology and Population Science, Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, Hertfordshire, AL9 7TA United Kingdom
| | - Martin Green
- The School of Veterinary Medicine and Science, University of Nottingham, Sutton Bonington Campus, Sutton Bonington, Leicestershire, LE12 5RD United Kingdom
| | - Javier Guitian
- Veterinary Epidemiology, Economics and Public Health Group, Department of Pathobiology and Population Science, Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, Hertfordshire, AL9 7TA United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Krajewska J, Modrak-Wójcik A, Arent ZJ, Więckowski D, Zolkiewski M, Bzowska A, Kędzierska-Mieszkowska S. Characterization of the molecular chaperone ClpB from the pathogenic spirochaete Leptospira interrogans. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0181118. [PMID: 28700685 PMCID: PMC5507356 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0181118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2017] [Accepted: 06/26/2017] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Leptospira interrogans is a spirochaete responsible for leptospirosis in mammals. The molecular mechanisms of the Leptospira virulence remain mostly unknown. Recently, it has been demonstrated that an AAA+ chaperone ClpB (a member of the Hsp100 family) from L. interrogans (ClpBLi) is not only essential for survival of Leptospira under the thermal and oxidative stresses, but also during infection of a host. The aim of this study was to provide further insight into the role of ClpB in the pathogenic spirochaetes and explore its biochemical properties. We found that a non-hydrolysable ATP analogue, ATPγS, but not AMP-PNP induces the formation of ClpBLi hexamers and stabilizes the associated form of the chaperone. ADP also induces structural changes in ClpBLi and promotes its self-assembly, but does not produce full association into the hexamers. We also demonstrated that ClpBLi exhibits a weak ATPase activity that is stimulated by κ-casein and poly-lysine, and may mediate protein disaggregation independently from the DnaK chaperone system. Unexpectedly, the presence of E. coli DnaK/DnaJ/GrpE did not significantly affect the disaggregation activity of ClpBLi and ClpBLi did not substitute for the ClpBEc function in the clpB-null E. coli strain. This result underscores the species-specificity of the ClpB cooperation with the co-chaperones and is most likely due to a loss of interactions between the ClpBLi middle domain and the E. coli DnaK. We also found that ClpBLi interacts more efficiently with the aggregated G6PDH in the presence of ATPγS rather than ATP. Our results indicate that ClpB's importance during infection might be due to its role as a molecular chaperone involved in reactivation of protein aggregates.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Joanna Krajewska
- Department of General and Medical Biochemistry, University of Gdańsk, Faculty of Biology, Gdańsk, Poland
| | - Anna Modrak-Wójcik
- Division of Biophysics, Institute of Experimental Physics, Faculty of Physics, University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Zbigniew J. Arent
- University Centre of Veterinary Medicine UJ-UR, University of Agriculture in Krakow, Krakow, Poland
| | - Daniel Więckowski
- Department of General and Medical Biochemistry, University of Gdańsk, Faculty of Biology, Gdańsk, Poland
| | - Michal Zolkiewski
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biophysics, Kansas State University, Manhattan, Kansas, United States of America
| | - Agnieszka Bzowska
- Division of Biophysics, Institute of Experimental Physics, Faculty of Physics, University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | | |
Collapse
|
16
|
Nally JE, Arent Z, Bayles DO, Hornsby RL, Gilmore C, Regan S, McDevitt AD, Yearsley J, Fanning S, McMahon BJ. Emerging Infectious Disease Implications of Invasive Mammalian Species: The Greater White-Toothed Shrew (Crocidura russula) Is Associated With a Novel Serovar of Pathogenic Leptospira in Ireland. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2016; 10:e0005174. [PMID: 27935961 PMCID: PMC5147805 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0005174] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2016] [Accepted: 11/08/2016] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
The greater white-toothed shrew (Crocidura russula) is an invasive mammalian species that was first recorded in Ireland in 2007. It currently occupies an area of approximately 7,600 km2 on the island. C. russula is normally distributed in Northern Africa and Western Europe, and was previously absent from the British Isles. Whilst invasive species can have dramatic and rapid impacts on faunal and floral communities, they may also be carriers of pathogens facilitating disease transmission in potentially naive populations. Pathogenic leptospires are endemic in Ireland and a significant cause of human and animal disease. From 18 trapped C. russula, 3 isolates of Leptospira were cultured. However, typing of these isolates by standard serological reference methods was negative, and suggested an, as yet, unidentified serovar. Sequence analysis of 16S ribosomal RNA and secY indicated that these novel isolates belong to Leptospira alstonii, a unique pathogenic species of which only 7 isolates have been described to date. Earlier isolations were limited geographically to China, Japan and Malaysia, and this leptospiral species had not previously been cultured from mammals. Restriction enzyme analysis (REA) further confirms the novelty of these strains since no similar patterns were observed with a reference database of leptospires. As with other pathogenic Leptospira species, these isolates contain lipL32 and do not grow in the presence of 8-azagunaine; however no evidence of disease was apparent after experimental infection of hamsters. These isolates are genetically related to L. alstonii but have a novel REA pattern; they represent a new serovar which we designate as serovar Room22. This study demonstrates that invasive mammalian species act as bridge vectors of novel zoonotic pathogens such as Leptospira. Leptospirosis is a global zoonotic disease. Pathogenic species of Leptospira are excreted in urine from asymptomatic carrier hosts which facilitates disease transmission to new hosts. To date, there are 10 species of pathogenic leptospires which comprise more than 200 serovars. Disease transmission of these strains is maintained by a wide range of domestic and wild animal species. In this work, we discovered that an invasive mammalian species, the greater white toothed shrew, which was first identified in Ireland in 2007, acts as a carrier for a species of leptospires never before identified in Ireland. Results demonstrate that invasive mammalian species act as bridge vectors of novel zoonotic pathogens such as Leptospira.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jarlath E. Nally
- Infectious Bacterial Diseases Research Unit, National Animal Disease Center, Agricultural Research Service, United States Department of Agriculture, Ames, Iowa, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| | - Zbigniew Arent
- University Centre of Veterinary Medicine JU-UAK, University of Agriculture, Krakow, Poland
| | - Darrell O. Bayles
- Infectious Bacterial Diseases Research Unit, National Animal Disease Center, Agricultural Research Service, United States Department of Agriculture, Ames, Iowa, United States of America
| | - Richard L. Hornsby
- Infectious Bacterial Diseases Research Unit, National Animal Disease Center, Agricultural Research Service, United States Department of Agriculture, Ames, Iowa, United States of America
| | - Colm Gilmore
- OIE Leptospirosis Reference Laboratory, Veterinary Sciences Division, AFBI, Belfast, Northern Ireland, United Kingdom
| | - Siobhan Regan
- UCD School of Agriculture & Food Science, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Allan D. McDevitt
- Ecosystems and Environment Research Centre, School of Environment and Life Sciences, University of Salford, Salford, United Kingdom
| | - Jon Yearsley
- UCD School of Biology & Environmental Science and UCD Earth Institute, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Séamus Fanning
- UCD Centre for Food Safety, School of Public Health, Physiotherapy & Sports Science, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Barry J. McMahon
- UCD School of Agriculture & Food Science, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin, Ireland
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Krajewska J, Arent Z, Więckowski D, Zolkiewski M, Kędzierska-Mieszkowska S. Immunoreactivity of the AAA+ chaperone ClpB from Leptospira interrogans with sera from Leptospira-infected animals. BMC Microbiol 2016; 16:151. [PMID: 27421882 PMCID: PMC4947342 DOI: 10.1186/s12866-016-0774-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2016] [Accepted: 07/12/2016] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Leptospira interrogans is a spirochaete responsible for leptospirosis in mammals. The molecular mechanisms of the Leptospira virulence remain mostly unknown. Recently, it has been demonstrated that L. interrogans ClpB (ClpBLi) is essential for bacterial survival under stressful conditions and also during infection. The aim of this study was to provide further insight into the role of ClpB in L. interrogans and answer the question whether ClpBLi as a potential virulence factor may be a target of the humoral immune response during leptospiral infections in mammals. Results ClpBLi consists of 860 amino acid residues with a predicted molecular mass of 96.3 kDa and shows multi-domain organization similar to that of the well-characterized ClpB from Escherichia coli. The amino acid sequence identity between ClpBLi and E. coli ClpB is 52 %. The coding sequence of the clpBLi gene was cloned and expressed in E. coli BL21(DE3) strain. Immunoreactivity of the recombinant ClpBLi protein was assessed with the sera collected from Leptospira-infected animals and uninfected healthy controls. Western blotting and ELISA analysis demonstrated that ClpBLi activates the host immune system, as evidenced by an increased level of antibodies against ClpBLi in the sera from infected animals, as compared to the control group. Additionally, ClpBLi was found in kidney tissues of Leptospira-infected hamsters. Conclusions ClpBLi is both synthesized and immunogenic during the infectious process, further supporting its involvement in the pathogenicity of Leptospira. In addition, the immunological properties of ClpBLi point to its potential value as a diagnostic antigen for the detection of leptospirosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Joanna Krajewska
- Department of General and Medical Biochemistry, University of Gdansk, Faculty of Biology, 80-308, Gdańsk, Poland
| | - Zbigniew Arent
- University Centre of Veterinary Medicine JU-UAK, University of Agriculture in Krakow, 30-059, Krakow, Poland
| | - Daniel Więckowski
- Department of General and Medical Biochemistry, University of Gdansk, Faculty of Biology, 80-308, Gdańsk, Poland
| | - Michal Zolkiewski
- Departament of Biochemistry and Molecular Biophysics, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS, 66506, USA
| | | |
Collapse
|
18
|
Horton KC, Wasfy M, Samaha H, Abdel-Rahman B, Safwat S, Abdel Fadeel M, Mohareb E, Dueger E. Serosurvey for zoonotic viral and bacterial pathogens among slaughtered livestock in Egypt. Vector Borne Zoonotic Dis 2014; 14:633-9. [PMID: 25198525 DOI: 10.1089/vbz.2013.1525] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Zoonotic diseases are an important cause of human morbidity and mortality. Animal populations at locations with high risk of transmission of zoonotic pathogens offer an opportunity to study viral and bacterial pathogens of veterinary and public health concern. METHODS Blood samples were collected from domestic and imported livestock slaughtered at the Muneeb abattoir in central Egypt in 2009. Samples were collected from cattle (n=161), buffalo (n=153), sheep (n=174), and camels (n=10). Samples were tested for antibodies against Leptospira spp. by a microscopy agglutination test, Coxiella burnetii by enzyme immunoassay, Brucella spp. by standard tube agglutination, and Rift Valley Fever virus (RVFV), Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever virus (CCHFV), sandfly fever Sicilian virus (SFSV), and sandfly fever Naples virus (SFNV) by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. RESULTS Antibodies against Leptospira spp. were identified in 64 (40%) cattle, 45 (29%) buffalo, 71 (41%) sheep, and five (50%) camels; antibodies against C. burnetii in six (4%) buffalo, 14 (8%) sheep, and seven (70%) camels; and antibodies against Brucella spp. in 12 (8%) cattle, one (1%) buffalo, seven (4%) sheep, and one (10%) camel. Antibodies against RVFV were detected in two (1%) cattle and five (3%) buffalo, and antibodies against CCHFV in one (1%) cow. No antibodies against SFSV or SFNV were detected in any species. DISCUSSION RESULTS indicate that livestock have been exposed to a number of pathogens, although care must be taken with interpretation. It is not possible to determine whether antibodies against Leptospira spp. and RVFV in cattle and buffalo are due to prior vaccination or natural exposure. Similarly, antibodies identified in animals less than 6 months of age may be maternal antibodies transferred through colostrum rather than evidence of prior exposure. RESULTS provide baseline evidence to indicate that surveillance within animal populations may be a useful tool to monitor the circulation of pathogens of veterinary and public health concern in Egypt.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Katherine C Horton
- 1 Global Disease Detection Regional Center-Egypt, US Naval Medical Research Unit No. 3 , Cairo, Egypt
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
19
|
O'Shaughnessy J, Mee JF, Doherty ML, Crosson P, Barrett D, O'Grady L, Earley B. Herd health status and management practices on 16 Irish suckler beef farms. Ir Vet J 2013; 66:21. [PMID: 24195997 PMCID: PMC3903451 DOI: 10.1186/2046-0481-66-21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2013] [Accepted: 10/31/2013] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Background There have been few studies published internationally which document herd health management practices in suckler beef herds and no published Irish studies. The study objective was to document herd health status and management practices on sixteen Irish suckler beef herds over a two year period (2009–2010). The farms used in the study were part of the Teagasc BETTER farm beef programme. The mean (s.d.) herd size, stocking rate and farm size was 68 cows (27.6), 2.0 LU/ha (0.3) and 64.3 (21.6) adjusted hectares, respectively. Two questionnaires were designed; 1) a farmer questionnaire to collect information on farm background and current herd health control practices and 2) a veterinary questionnaire to collect information on the extent of animal health advice given by veterinarians to their clients and identification of any on-farm herd health issues. Results Dystocia, calf pneumonia, and calf diarrhoea, in that order, were identified as the primary herd health issues in these Irish suckler beef herds. In addition, substantial deficiencies in biosecurity practices were also identified on these farms. Conclusions The findings of this study may serve as the focus for future research in animal health management practices in Irish suckler beef herds.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Bernadette Earley
- Animal and Bioscience Research Department, Animal & Grassland Research and Innovation Centre, Teagasc, Grange, Dunsany, Co,, Meath, Ireland.
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Ryan EG, Leonard N, O'Grady L, Doherty ML, More SJ. Herd-level risk factors associated with Leptospira Hardjo seroprevalence in Beef/Suckler herds in the Republic of Ireland. Ir Vet J 2012; 65:6. [PMID: 22449264 PMCID: PMC3342215 DOI: 10.1186/2046-0481-65-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2011] [Accepted: 03/26/2012] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The aim of the present study was to investigate risk factors for herd seropositivity to Leptospira Hardjo in Irish suckler herds. Herds were considered eligible for the study if they were unvaccinated and contained ≥ 9 breeding animals of beef breed which were ≥ 12 months of age. The country was divided into six regions using county boundaries. Herd and individual animal prevalence data were available from the results of a concurrent seroprevalence study. Herds were classified as either "Free from Infection" or "Infected" based on a minimum expected 40% within-herd prevalence. Questionnaires were posted to 320 farmers chosen randomly from 6 regions, encompassing 25 counties, of the Republic of Ireland. The questionnaire was designed to obtain information about vaccination; reproductive disease; breeding herd details; the presence of recognized risk factors from previous studies; and husbandry on each farm. Data collected from 128 eligible herds were subjected to statistical analysis. Results Following the use of Pearson's Chi-Square Test, those variables associated with a herd being "infected" with a significance level of P < 0.2 were considered as candidates for multivariable logistic regression modelling. Breeding herd size was found to be a statistically significant risk factor after multivariable logistic regression. The odds of a herd being positive for leptospiral infection were 5.47 times higher (P = 0.032) in herds with 14 to 23 breeding animals compared with herds with ≤ 13 breeding animals, adjusting for Region, and 7.08 times higher (P = 0.033) in herds with 32.6 to 142 breeding animals. Conclusions Breeding herd size was identified as a significant risk factor for leptospiral infection in Irish suckler herds, which was similar to findings of previous studies of leptospirosis in dairy herds.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Eoin Gerard Ryan
- School of Veterinary Medicine, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin 4, Republic of Ireland
| | - Nola Leonard
- School of Veterinary Medicine, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin 4, Republic of Ireland
| | - Luke O'Grady
- School of Veterinary Medicine, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin 4, Republic of Ireland
| | - Michael L Doherty
- School of Veterinary Medicine, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin 4, Republic of Ireland
| | - Simon J More
- School of Veterinary Medicine, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin 4, Republic of Ireland
| |
Collapse
|