1
|
López-López P, Cruz AVS, Santos-Silva S, Rivero-Juárez A, Rebelo H, Mesquita JR. Molecular Survey of Protist Enteroparasites in Bats (Order Chiroptera) from Portugal. Acta Parasitol 2025; 70:24. [PMID: 39853462 DOI: 10.1007/s11686-024-00985-x] [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: 07/12/2024] [Accepted: 10/07/2024] [Indexed: 01/26/2025]
Abstract
PURPOSE Bats constitute 20% of all mammal species, playing a vital role in ecosystem health as pollinators, seed dispersers, and regulators of insect populations. However, these animals can also be reservoirs for infectious agents, including viruses, bacteria, and enteroparasites such as Cryptosporidium spp., Giardia duodenalis, and Balantioides coli, raising questions about their role in the epidemiology of these agents. Our study analyses bat faecal samples from Portugal with the aim of assessing the prevalence, distribution and diversity of enteroparasitic protozoa. METHODS We conducted a retrospective study that included 380 bat faecal samples collected between 2014 and 2018 in northern and central Portugal. RESULTS In our study, a Cryptosporidium spp. prevalence of 3.2% was identified, with genetic diversity observed and strains grouped with known bat genotypes. Giardia duodenalis was detected in 0.5% of the samples, exhibiting distinct genetic characteristics that may suggest a potential new assembly group encompassing bats and rodents. Finally, B. coli was detected in 0.26% of samples, representing the first observation of this ciliate in bats, with the identified genetic variant belonging to genotype B. CONCLUSION Our results provide valuable molecular epidemiological insights that underscore the importance of bats in the epidemiology of these enteroparasites. Furthermore, this is the first report of Cryptosporidium spp. and G. duodenalis in bat faeces samples from Portugal, and the first study worldwide to show that bats can shed B. coli in their faeces.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Pedro López-López
- ICBAS-Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas Abel Salazar, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
- Grupo de Virología Clínica y Zoonosis, Unidad de Enfermedades Infecciosas, Instituto Maimónides de Investigación Biomédica de Córdoba, Hospital Reina Sofía, Universidad de Córdoba, Córdoba, Spain
- CIBERINFEC, ISCIII-CIBER de Enfermedades Infecciosas, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - Andreia V S Cruz
- ICBAS-Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas Abel Salazar, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Sérgio Santos-Silva
- ICBAS-Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas Abel Salazar, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Antonio Rivero-Juárez
- Grupo de Virología Clínica y Zoonosis, Unidad de Enfermedades Infecciosas, Instituto Maimónides de Investigación Biomédica de Córdoba, Hospital Reina Sofía, Universidad de Córdoba, Córdoba, Spain
- CIBERINFEC, ISCIII-CIBER de Enfermedades Infecciosas, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - Hugo Rebelo
- Centro de Investigação em Bioaffiliationersidade e Recursos Genéticos, InBIO Laboratório Associado, Universidade do Porto, Vairão, Portugal
- cE3c-Centre for Ecology, Evolution and Environmental Changes & CHANGE-Global Change and Sustainability Institute, Departamento de Biologia Animal, Faculdade de Ciências, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - João R Mesquita
- ICBAS-Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas Abel Salazar, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal.
- Centro de Estudos de Ciência Animal (CECA), Instituto de Ciências, Tecnologias e Agroambiente (ICETA), Universidade do Porto (UP), Rua D. Manuel II, Apartado 55142, Porto, Portugal.
- Associate Laboratory for Animal and Veterinary Science (AL4AnimalS), Lisbon, Portugal.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Kabir MHB, Kato K. Comprehensive molecular epidemiology of Cryptosporidium species in Japan. Parasitol Int 2024; 102:102909. [PMID: 38945736 DOI: 10.1016/j.parint.2024.102909] [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: 03/06/2024] [Revised: 05/05/2024] [Accepted: 05/20/2024] [Indexed: 07/02/2024]
Abstract
Cryptosporidium species, causing diarrheal illnesses in humans and animals worldwide, are under investigation for their molecular epidemiology in Japan. The study focuses on detecting Cryptosporidium species in humans, animals, water, and the environment, revealing three species in people: C. parvum, C. meleagridis, and C. hominis. Subtype IIa of the C. parvum gp60 gene is prevalent, indicating potential zoonotic transmission. Animal studies identified sixteen species, mainly cattle and pets, with C. parvum (subtype IIa) common in cattle and C. canis and C. felis prevalent in pets. Additionally, C. bovis and C. ryanae were found in cattle and sika deer. Knowledge gaps exist, particularly in water and environmental source typing, with limited research revealing five species and five genotypes, suggesting a significant role of water in transmission. Further research is needed to understand the molecular diversity and transmission dynamics across humans, animals, water, and the environment in Japan.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Hazzaz Bin Kabir
- Laboratory of Sustainable Animal Environment, Graduate School of Agricultural Science, Tohoku University, Osaki, Miyagi, Japan; Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, Sher-e-Bangla Agricultural University, Sher-e-Bangla Nagar, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Kentaro Kato
- Laboratory of Sustainable Animal Environment, Graduate School of Agricultural Science, Tohoku University, Osaki, Miyagi, Japan.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Zhao W, Ren G, Mao J, Huang H, Lu G, Liang S. Enterocytozoon bieneusi and Cryptosporidium bat genotype XXI and bat genotype XXII in fruit bats (Rousettus leschenaultii) inhabiting a tropical park in Hainan Province, China. Acta Trop 2024; 254:107186. [PMID: 38513912 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2024.107186] [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: 01/02/2024] [Revised: 02/19/2024] [Accepted: 03/12/2024] [Indexed: 03/23/2024]
Abstract
Bats stand as one of the most diverse groups in the animal kingdom and are key players in the global transmission of emerging pathogens. However, their role in transmitting Enterocytozoon bieneusi and Cryptosporidium spp. remains unclear. This study aimed to evaluate the occurrence and genetic diversity of the two pathogens in fruit bats (Rousettus leschenaultii) in Hainan, China. Ten fresh fecal specimens of fruit bats were collected from Wanlvyuan Gardens, Haikou, China. The fecal samples were tested for E. bieneusi and Cryptosporidium spp. using Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) analysis and sequencing the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) region and partial small subunit of ribosomal RNA (SSU rRNA) gene, respectively. Genetic heterogeneity across Cryptosporidium spp. isolates was assessed by sequencing 4 microsatellite/minisatellite loci (MS1, MS2, MS3, and MS16). The findings showed that out of the ten specimens analyzed, 2 (20 %) and seven (70.0 %) were tested positive for E. bieneusi and Cryptosporidium spp., respectively. DNA sequence analysis revealed the presence of two novel Cryptosporidium genotypes with 94.4 to 98.6 % sequence similarity to C. andersoni, named as Cryptosporidium bat-genotype-XXI and bat-genotype-XXII. Three novel sequences of MS1, MS2 and MS16 loci identified here had 95.4 to 96.9 % similarity to the known sequences, which were deposited in the GenBank. Two genotypes of E. bieneusi were identified, including a novel genotype named HNB-I and a zoonotic genotype PigEbITS7. The discovery of these novel sequences provides meaningful data for epidemiological studies of the both pathogens. Meanwhile our results are also presented that the fruit bats infected with E. bieneusi, but not with Cryptosporidium, should be considered potential public health threats.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wei Zhao
- Department of Parasitology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325035, China; Department of Pathogenic Biology, Hainan Medical University, Haikou, Hainan, China; Hainan Medical University-The University of Hong Kong Joint Laboratory of Tropical Infectious Diseases, Hainan Medical University, Haikou, Hainan, China; Key Laboratory of Tropical Translational Medicine of Ministry of Education, Hainan Medical University, Haikou 571199, China
| | - Guangxu Ren
- Department of Pathogenic Biology, Hainan Medical University, Haikou, Hainan, China; Hainan Medical University-The University of Hong Kong Joint Laboratory of Tropical Infectious Diseases, Hainan Medical University, Haikou, Hainan, China; Key Laboratory of Tropical Translational Medicine of Ministry of Education, Hainan Medical University, Haikou 571199, China
| | - Jialiang Mao
- Department of Parasitology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325035, China
| | - Huicong Huang
- Department of Parasitology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325035, China
| | - Gang Lu
- Department of Pathogenic Biology, Hainan Medical University, Haikou, Hainan, China; Hainan Medical University-The University of Hong Kong Joint Laboratory of Tropical Infectious Diseases, Hainan Medical University, Haikou, Hainan, China; Key Laboratory of Tropical Translational Medicine of Ministry of Education, Hainan Medical University, Haikou 571199, China.
| | - Shaohui Liang
- Department of Parasitology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325035, China.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
KABIR MHB, KATO K. Examining the molecular epidemiology of Giardia and Eimeria species in Japan: a comprehensive review. J Vet Med Sci 2024; 86:563-574. [PMID: 38556324 PMCID: PMC11144535 DOI: 10.1292/jvms.23-0525] [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: 01/04/2024] [Accepted: 03/15/2024] [Indexed: 04/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Globally, animals and humans suffer from diarrheal illnesses due to protozoan parasites such as Giardia and Eimeria species. The molecular epidemiology of these parasites in Japan is summarized in this review. In humans, researchers found only one main species of Giardia, which is most referred to as G. lamblia, but it's also known by different names like G. duodenalis or G. intestinalis. However, within this species, six assemblages (A, B, C, D, E, and F) were found in animals, and assemblage B was frequently recorded in human and monkey populations, whereas assemblages A and E were predominant in calves. Assemblage A was found in sika deer and assemblages A, C, D, and F were predominant in dogs, cats, and ferret. Eimeria bovis, E. zuernii, and other species found in animals made up the group of species known as Eimeria spp., with E. bovis and E. zuernii being the most common in cattle. Our review highlighted a notable lack of data investigations regarding these two pathogens in water and environmental sources. Giardia cysts were found in the few studies that have been done on water sources, suggesting that water may play a significant role in the transmission of Giardia species. Our review suggests that further research is necessary to fully comprehend the molecular diversity and dynamics of transmission of Giardia spp. and Eimeria spp. in humans, animals, and environmental sources in Japan.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Hazzaz Bin KABIR
- Laboratory of Sustainable Animal Environment, Graduate School of Agricultural Science, Tohoku University, Miyagi, Japan
- Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, Sher-e-Bangla Agricultural University, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Kentaro KATO
- Laboratory of Sustainable Animal Environment, Graduate School of Agricultural Science, Tohoku University, Miyagi, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Barbosa AD, Egan S, Feng Y, Xiao L, Ryan U. How significant are bats as potential carriers of zoonotic Cryptosporidium and Giardia? CURRENT RESEARCH IN PARASITOLOGY & VECTOR-BORNE DISEASES 2023; 4:100155. [PMID: 38149267 PMCID: PMC10750029 DOI: 10.1016/j.crpvbd.2023.100155] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2023] [Revised: 11/08/2023] [Accepted: 11/16/2023] [Indexed: 12/28/2023]
Abstract
Bats are known to harbour various pathogens and are increasingly recognised as potential reservoirs for zoonotic diseases. This paper reviews the genetic diversity and zoonotic potential of Cryptosporidium and Giardia in bats. The risk of zoonotic transmission of Cryptosporidium from bats to humans appears low, with bat-specific Cryptosporidium genotypes accounting for 91.5% of Cryptosporidium-positive samples genotyped from bats worldwide, and C. parvum and C. hominis accounting for 3.4% each of typed positives, respectively. To date, there have only been sporadic detections of Giardia in bats, with no genetic characterisation of the parasite to species or assemblage level. Therefore, the role bats play as reservoirs of zoonotic Giardia spp. is unknown. To mitigate potential risks of zoonotic transmission and their public health implications, comprehensive research on Cryptosporidium and Giardia in bats is imperative. Future studies should encompass additional locations across the globe and a broader spectrum of bat species, with a focus on those adapted to urban environments.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Amanda D. Barbosa
- Harry Butler Institute, Vector- and Water-Borne Pathogen Research Group, Murdoch University, Murdoch, Western Australia 6150, Australia
- CAPES Foundation, Ministry of Education of Brazil, Brasilia, DF 70040-020, Brazil
| | - Siobhon Egan
- Harry Butler Institute, Vector- and Water-Borne Pathogen Research Group, Murdoch University, Murdoch, Western Australia 6150, Australia
| | - Yaoyu Feng
- Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Diseases, College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Lihua Xiao
- Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Diseases, College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Una Ryan
- Harry Butler Institute, Vector- and Water-Borne Pathogen Research Group, Murdoch University, Murdoch, Western Australia 6150, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Silva-Ramos CR, Noriega J, Fajardo RF, Chala-Quintero SM, Del Pilar Pulido-Villamarín A, Pérez-Torres J, Castañeda-Salazar R, Cuervo C. Molecular Detection and Genotyping of Cryptosporidium spp. Isolates from Bats in Colombia. Acta Parasitol 2023; 68:676-682. [PMID: 37531008 PMCID: PMC10462512 DOI: 10.1007/s11686-023-00697-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2023] [Accepted: 06/19/2023] [Indexed: 08/03/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Cryptosporidiosis is a zoonotic infectious disease caused by the protozoan parasite Cryptosporidium spp., frequently found in several animal species, including bats. Several Cryptosporidium genotypes have been described in bats worldwide, suggesting that bats are infected by host-specific Cryptosporidium spp. To date, there are no published reports about Cryptosporidium spp. in bats from Colombia. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the presence and molecular diversity of Cryptosporidium spp. in Colombian bats. METHODS A total of 63 gut samples from three bat species served for molecular detection of Cryptosporidium spp. 18S rDNA gene by qPCR. The sequenced amplicons were used in subsequent phylogenetic analyses to identify them as species or genotypes. RESULTS Cryptosporidium spp. qPCR detection occurred in 9.5% (6/63) of bat intestines, and four sequences represented two new genotypes, called Cryptosporidium bat genotypes XIX and XX, were identified. CONCLUSIONS This study describes the detection of two novel Cryptosporidium bat genotypes, in two species of bats from a region of Colombia, requiring further studies to determine the relationhip between Cryptosporidium and bats in Colombia.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Carlos Ramiro Silva-Ramos
- Grupo de Enfermedades Infecciosas, Departamento de Microbiología, Facultad de Ciencias, Pontificia Universidad Javeriana, Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Juliana Noriega
- Grupo de Enfermedades Infecciosas, Departamento de Microbiología, Facultad de Ciencias, Pontificia Universidad Javeriana, Bogotá, Colombia
- Unidad de Investigaciones Agropecuarias (UNIDIA), Departamento de Microbiología, Facultad de Ciencias, Pontificia Universidad Javeriana, Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Rafael F Fajardo
- Grupo de Enfermedades Infecciosas, Departamento de Microbiología, Facultad de Ciencias, Pontificia Universidad Javeriana, Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Sandra M Chala-Quintero
- Unidad de Ecología y Sistemática (UNESIS), Laboratorio de Ecología Funcional, Facultad de Ciencias, Pontificia Universidad Javeriana, Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Adriana Del Pilar Pulido-Villamarín
- Unidad de Investigaciones Agropecuarias (UNIDIA), Departamento de Microbiología, Facultad de Ciencias, Pontificia Universidad Javeriana, Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Jairo Pérez-Torres
- Unidad de Ecología y Sistemática (UNESIS), Laboratorio de Ecología Funcional, Facultad de Ciencias, Pontificia Universidad Javeriana, Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Rubiela Castañeda-Salazar
- Unidad de Investigaciones Agropecuarias (UNIDIA), Departamento de Microbiología, Facultad de Ciencias, Pontificia Universidad Javeriana, Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Claudia Cuervo
- Grupo de Enfermedades Infecciosas, Departamento de Microbiología, Facultad de Ciencias, Pontificia Universidad Javeriana, Bogotá, Colombia.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Couso-Pérez S, Pardavila X, Ares-Mazás E, Gómez-Couso H. Molecular identification of Eimeria species in Spanish bats. Parasitol Int 2022; 91:102621. [PMID: 35809844 DOI: 10.1016/j.parint.2022.102621] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2022] [Revised: 06/29/2022] [Accepted: 06/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
This is the first study reporting the detection and molecular characterization of Eimeria in bats in Spain, specifically in 12 of 32 chiropteran species described in the Iberian Peninsula. A total of 76 faecal samples were collected from different bat roosting sites across Spanish territory. The DNA was extracted from the samples and sequenced by targeting the Eimeria SSU-rRNA gene. Two Eimeria species were detected in 29 of the 76 faecal samples (38%), and the bat-specific Eimeria rioarribaensis and rodent-specific Eimeria jerfinica were detected in 4 (5%) and 25 (33%) of the samples, respectively. This is the first report of E. rioarribaensis in the bats Rhinolophus euryale, Myotis myotis and Nyctalus lasiopterus, extending the host and geographical ranges for this bat coccidian parasite. The identification of the rodent-specific parasite species E. jerfinica in bats indicates the occurrence of this species in Spain, although its presence has not previously been reported in wild rodents in this country. Considering that most of the Eimeria spp. reported in bats were described only on the basis of morphometric data, molecular studies are required to determined which Eimeria species occur in bats, to complete the identification of these species and to clarify the phylogeny.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Seila Couso-Pérez
- Laboratory of Parasitology, Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Santiago de Compostela, Campus Vida, 15782 Santiago de Compostela, A Coruña, Spain
| | - Xosé Pardavila
- Sorex Ecoloxía e Medio Ambiente S.L.U., Rúa das Barreiras 80,15702 Santiago de Compostela, A Coruña, Spain
| | - Elvira Ares-Mazás
- Laboratory of Parasitology, Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Santiago de Compostela, Campus Vida, 15782 Santiago de Compostela, A Coruña, Spain
| | - Hipólito Gómez-Couso
- Laboratory of Parasitology, Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Santiago de Compostela, Campus Vida, 15782 Santiago de Compostela, A Coruña, Spain; Research Institute on Chemical and Biological Analysis, University of Santiago de Compostela, Campus Vida, 15782 Santiago de Compostela, A Coruña, Spain.
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Ryan UM, Feng Y, Fayer R, Xiao L. Taxonomy and molecular epidemiology of Cryptosporidium and Giardia - a 50 year perspective (1971-2021). Int J Parasitol 2021; 51:1099-1119. [PMID: 34715087 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpara.2021.08.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 194] [Impact Index Per Article: 48.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2021] [Revised: 08/25/2021] [Accepted: 08/31/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
The protozoan parasites Cryptosporidium and Giardia are significant causes of diarrhoea worldwide and are responsible for numerous waterborne and foodborne outbreaks of diseases. Over the last 50 years, the development of improved detection and typing tools has facilitated the expanding range of named species. Currently at least 44 Cryptosporidium spp. and >120 genotypes, and nine Giardia spp., are recognised. Many of these Cryptosporidium genotypes will likely be described as species in the future. The phylogenetic placement of Cryptosporidium at the genus level is still unclear and further research is required to better understand its evolutionary origins. Zoonotic transmission has long been known to play an important role in the epidemiology of cryptosporidiosis and giardiasis, and the development and application of next generation sequencing tools is providing evidence for this. Comparative whole genome sequencing is also providing key information on the genetic mechanisms for host specificity and human infectivity, and will enable One Health management of these zoonotic parasites in the future.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Una M Ryan
- Harry Butler Institute, Murdoch University, Perth, Western Australia, Australia.
| | - Yaoyu Feng
- Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Diseases, College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China; Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Ronald Fayer
- Environmental Microbial and Food Safety Laboratory, Agricultural Research Service, United States Department of Agriculture, 10300 Baltimore Avenue, BARC-East, Building 173, Beltsville, MD 20705, USA
| | - Lihua Xiao
- Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Diseases, College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China; Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Duszynski DW. Biodiversity of the Coccidia (Apicomplexa: Conoidasida) in vertebrates: what we know, what we do not know, and what needs to be done. Folia Parasitol (Praha) 2021; 68. [PMID: 33527909 DOI: 10.14411/fp.2021.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2020] [Accepted: 09/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Over the last two decades my colleagues and I have assembled the literature on a good percentage of most of the coccidians (Conoidasida) known, to date, to parasitise: Amphibia, four major lineages of Reptilia (Amphisbaenia, Chelonia, Crocodylia, Serpentes), and seven major orders in the Mammalia (Carnivora, Chiroptera, Lagomorpha, Insectivora, Marsupialia, Primates, Scandentia). These vertebrates, combined, comprise about 15,225 species; only about 899 (5.8%) of them have been surveyed for coccidia and 1,946 apicomplexan valid species names or other forms are recorded in the literature. Based on these compilations and other factors, I extrapolated that there yet may be an additional 31,381 new apicomplexans still to be discovered in just these 12 vertebrate groups. Extending the concept to all of the other extant vertebrates on Earth; i.e. lizards (6,300 spp.), rodents plus 12 minor orders of mammals (3,180 spp.), birds (10,000 spp.), and fishes (33,000 spp.) and, conservatively assuming only two unique apicomplexan species per each vertebrate host species, I extrapolate and extend my prediction that we may eventually find 135,000 new apicomplexans that still need discovery and to be described in and from those vertebrates that have not yet been examined for them! Even doubling that number is a significant underestimation in my opinion.
Collapse
|
10
|
Prevalence of Gastrointestinal Parasites in the Frugivorous and the Insectivorous Bats in Southcentral Nepal. J Parasitol Res 2020; 2020:8880033. [PMID: 33414955 PMCID: PMC7752302 DOI: 10.1155/2020/8880033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2020] [Revised: 10/14/2020] [Accepted: 10/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Bats are the only active flying placental mammals and are traditionally classified into mega- and microbats, which are, respectively, herbivorous and insectivorous in feeding habit. Though deforestation, habitat destruction, natural calamities, illegal hunting, and climate changes are the challenging threats for bats, the role of existing gastrointestinal (GI) parasites have not been evaluated yet in Nepal. Thus, the current study aims to determine the prevalence of GI parasites in bats from the Shaktikhor area at the Chitwan district of Southcentral Nepal. From July 2018 to February 2019, a total of 60 fecal samples of bats (30 from frugivorous bats and 30 from the insectivorous bats) were collected. These samples were preserved at 2.5% potassium dichromate solution. The fecal examination was carried out by the direct wet mount, concentrations, acid-fast staining, and sporulation techniques. Overall results showed the prevalence rate of 80% GI parasites. The parasites detected in the insectivorous bats were Ascarid spp., Capillarid sp., Cryptosporidium sp., Eimeria spp., Entamoeba sp., Giardia sp., Hymenolepis spp., Isospora sp., Oxyurid sp., Strongyle, and Strongyloides sp. In contrast, Eimeria sp., Entamoeba sp., and Hymenolepis sp. were detected in the frugivorous bats. Based on a wide diversity of parasite richness and parasitic concurrency measured by the prevalence rates, we suggest that GI parasitism might be a threatening factor in the insectivorous bats in the current study area.
Collapse
|
11
|
El-Alfy ES, Nishikawa Y. Cryptosporidium species and cryptosporidiosis in Japan: a literature review and insights into the role played by animals in its transmission. J Vet Med Sci 2020; 82:1051-1067. [PMID: 32536636 PMCID: PMC7468066 DOI: 10.1292/jvms.20-0151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Cryptosporidium species infect domestic animals, livestock, and humans.
These protozoan parasites are frequently reported as major environmental contaminants in
many countries despite their differing climatic, socioeconomic, and demographic factors.
This review focuses on the research findings that relate to
Cryptosporidium epidemiology, genetic diversity, and associated risk
factors relating to animals, contaminated water sources, and humans in Japan. Adequate
knowledge of these factors is essential for understanding the economic and public health
importance of cryptosporidiosis in Japan so that effective control strategies against it
are implemented. Cryptosporidium infections are highly prevalent in
animals in Japan. Among the different animal species, cattle infections stand out because
of their economic importance and zoonotic potential. Living circumstances in Japan
restrain Cryptosporidium transmission between humans, but there is
evidence to suggest that animals, especially those in close contact with humans, can be
potential sources of human infections. Water sampling studies have provided clues about
how environmental contamination with Cryptosporidium oocysts can cause
infections in livestock and wild animals. There is some evidence of person-to-person
transmission of cryptosporidiosis, but only occasionally and under certain circumstances.
By identifying the major role played by animals in Cryptosporidium
transmission to people in Japan, we highlight the urgent need for disease control against
this pathogen.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- El-Sayed El-Alfy
- National Research Center for Protozoan Diseases, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Inada-cho, Obihiro, Hokkaido 080-8555, Japan.,Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura 35516, Egypt
| | - Yoshifumi Nishikawa
- National Research Center for Protozoan Diseases, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Inada-cho, Obihiro, Hokkaido 080-8555, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Sun DL, Gao YZ, Ge XY, Shi ZL, Zhou NY. Special Features of Bat Microbiota Differ From Those of Terrestrial Mammals. Front Microbiol 2020; 11:1040. [PMID: 32582057 PMCID: PMC7284282 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2020.01040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2019] [Accepted: 04/27/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Bats (order Chiroptera) are one of the most diverse and widely distributed group of mammals with a close relationship to humans. Over the past few decades, a number of studies have been performed on bat viruses; in contrast, bacterial pathogens carried by bats were largely neglected. As more bacterial pathogens are being identified from bats, the need to study their natural microbiota is becoming urgent. In the current study, fecal samples of four bat species from different locations of China were analyzed for their microbiota composition. Together with the results of others, we concluded that bat microbiota is most commonly dominated by Firmicutes and Proteobacteria; the strict anaerobic phylum Bacteroidetes, which is dominant in other terrestrial mammals, especially humans and mice, is relatively rare in bats. This phenomenon was interpreted as a result of a highly specified gastrointestinal tract in adaptation to the flying lifestyle of bats. Further comparative study implied that bat microbiota resemble those of the order Carnivora. To discover potential bacterial pathogens, a database was generated containing the 16S rRNA gene sequences of known bacterial pathogens. Potential bacterial pathogens belonging to 12 genera were detected such as Salmonella, Shigella, and Yersinia, among which some have been previously reported in bats. This study demonstrated high resolution and repeatability in detecting organisms of rare existence, and the results could be used as guidance for future bacterial pathogen isolation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dong-Lei Sun
- Wuhan Institute of Virology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, China
| | - Yi-Zhou Gao
- Wuhan Institute of Virology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, China
- State Key Laboratory of Microbial Metabolism, School of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xing-Yi Ge
- Wuhan Institute of Virology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, China
- College of Biology, Hunan University, Changsha, China
| | - Zheng-Li Shi
- Wuhan Institute of Virology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, China
| | - Ning-Yi Zhou
- Wuhan Institute of Virology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, China
- State Key Laboratory of Microbial Metabolism, School of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Ekawasti F, Kitagawa K, Domae H, Wardhana AH, Shibahara T, Uni S, Tokoro M, Sasai K, Matsubayashi M. Molecular identification of Eimeria hestermani and Eimeria prionotemni from a red-necked wallaby (Macropodidae; Macropus rufogriseus) in Japan. Parasitol Res 2020; 119:1271-1279. [PMID: 32072327 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-020-06618-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2019] [Accepted: 01/29/2020] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
To date, more than 50 Eimeria spp. have been isolated from marsupials of the family Macropodidae. Although 18 species of Eimeria have been previously detected from multiple animal species belonging to the genus Macropus of the family, limited genetic analyses of the parasites are available, and their pathogenicity remains unclear. Here, we report the isolation of Eimeria spp. from a zoo specimen of red-necked wallaby (Macropodidae; Macropus rufogriseus). Specifically, two distinct types of Eimeria oocysts were recovered, one from the feces before treatment with an anthelmintic and the second from the intestinal contents after death of the animal. The oocysts obtained from the two sources were morphologically identified as E. hestermani and E. prionotemni, respectively. We successfully determined partial gene sequences from the two isolates, including segments of the 18S rRNA genes, and for the first time have used phylogenetic analyses of these sequences to assign the species to distinct clades. In combination with further genetic data, these results are expected to help elucidate the pathogenicity and host ranges of Eimeria spp. within the respective family and genus.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fitrine Ekawasti
- Indonesian Research Center for Veterinary Science, Bogor, 16114, Indonesia.,Department of Parasitology, Veterinary Medicine, Gadjah Mada University, Yogyakarta, 55281, Indonesia.,Department of Veterinary Science, Graduate School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Osaka Prefecture University, Osaka, 598-8531, Japan
| | | | | | - April Hari Wardhana
- Indonesian Research Center for Veterinary Science, Bogor, 16114, Indonesia.,Department of Veterinary Science, Graduate School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Osaka Prefecture University, Osaka, 598-8531, Japan.,Department of Veterinary Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Airlangga University, Surabaya, 60115, Indonesia
| | - Tomoyuki Shibahara
- Department of Veterinary Science, Graduate School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Osaka Prefecture University, Osaka, 598-8531, Japan.,Division of Pathology and Pathophysiology, National Institute of Animal Health, NARO, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, 305-0856, Japan
| | - Shigehiko Uni
- Institute of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Malaya, 50603, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.,Department of Public Health, Faculty of Nursing, Kobe Women's University, Kobe, 650-0046, Japan
| | - Masaharu Tokoro
- Department of Parasitology, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa, 920-8640, Japan
| | - Kazumi Sasai
- Department of Veterinary Science, Graduate School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Osaka Prefecture University, Osaka, 598-8531, Japan.,Asian Health Science Research Institute, Osaka Prefecture University, Osaka, 598-8531, Japan
| | - Makoto Matsubayashi
- Department of Veterinary Science, Graduate School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Osaka Prefecture University, Osaka, 598-8531, Japan. .,Department of Veterinary Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Airlangga University, Surabaya, 60115, Indonesia. .,Asian Health Science Research Institute, Osaka Prefecture University, Osaka, 598-8531, Japan.
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Batista JMN, de Carvalho C, Pedro WA, Santana BN, Camargo VS, Ferrari ED, Nascimento IG, Meireles MV. Identification of Cryptosporidium bat genotypes XVI-XVIII in bats from Brazil. Parasitol Res 2019; 118:2183-2191. [PMID: 31076871 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-019-06342-6] [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: 11/06/2018] [Accepted: 04/29/2019] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Cryptosporidiosis is an emergent zoonotic disease caused by the globally distributed protozoa Cryptosporidium spp. Although several Cryptosporidium studies related to humans and many animal species have been published, there are still limited studies on the epidemiology of Cryptosporidium infection in bats. The aim of this study was to determine the occurrence of Cryptosporidium spp. and to perform the molecular characterization of Cryptosporidium species and genotypes in fecal samples from bats in an urban area of the municipality of Araçatuba, state of São Paulo, Brazil. Nested PCR targeting the 18S rRNA, actin, and HSP-70 genes was performed to screen 141 fecal samples from bats and detected Cryptosporidium spp. in 16.3% (23/141) of the samples. Bidirectional sequencing identified three novel Cryptosporidium bat genotypes (XVI, XVII, and XVIII) and a new genotype (18SH) genetically similar to Cryptosporidium avium in six species of bats. This is the first report on the occurrence and molecular characterization of Cryptosporidium spp. in Brazilian bats. Zoonotic Cryptosporidium species were not found in fecal samples from bats living in an urban area in the municipality of Araçatuba, state of São Paulo, Brazil.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Juliana Maria N Batista
- Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária, Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP), Araçatuba, Clóvis Pestana St., 793, 16050-680, Araçatuba, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Cristiano de Carvalho
- Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária, Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP), Araçatuba, Clóvis Pestana St., 793, 16050-680, Araçatuba, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Wagner A Pedro
- Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária, Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP), Araçatuba, Clóvis Pestana St., 793, 16050-680, Araçatuba, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Bruna N Santana
- Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária, Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP), Araçatuba, Clóvis Pestana St., 793, 16050-680, Araçatuba, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Vinícius S Camargo
- Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária, Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP), Araçatuba, Clóvis Pestana St., 793, 16050-680, Araçatuba, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Elis D Ferrari
- Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária, Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP), Araçatuba, Clóvis Pestana St., 793, 16050-680, Araçatuba, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Isabela G Nascimento
- Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária, Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP), Araçatuba, Clóvis Pestana St., 793, 16050-680, Araçatuba, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Marcelo V Meireles
- Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária, Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP), Araçatuba, Clóvis Pestana St., 793, 16050-680, Araçatuba, São Paulo, Brazil.
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Li N, Ayinmode AB, Zhang H, Feng Y, Xiao L. Host-adapted Cryptosporidium and Enterocytozoon bieneusi genotypes in straw-colored fruit bats in Nigeria. Int J Parasitol Parasites Wildl 2019; 8:19-24. [PMID: 30560054 PMCID: PMC6289945 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijppaw.2018.12.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2018] [Revised: 11/30/2018] [Accepted: 12/03/2018] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Few data are available on the distribution and human infective potential of Cryptosporidium and Enterocytozoon bieneusi genotypes in bats. In this preliminary study, we collected 109 fecal specimens during April-July 2011 from a colony of straw-colored fruit bats (Eidolon helvum) in an urban park (Agodi Gardens) of Ibadan, Nigeria, and analyzed for Cryptosporidium spp., Giardia duodenalis and E. bieneusi using PCR targeting the small subunit rRNA gene, triosephosphate isomerase gene, and ribosomal internal transcribed spacer, respectively. Genotypes of these enteric parasites were determined by DNA sequencing of the PCR products. Altogether, 6 (5.5%), 0 and 16 (14.7%) specimens were positive for Cryptosporidium spp., G. duodenalis, and E. bieneusi, respectively. DNA sequence analysis of the PCR products indicated the presence of two novel Cryptosporidium genotypes named as bat genotype XIV (in 5 specimens) and bat genotype XV (in 1 specimen) and one known E. bieneusi genotype (Type IV in 1 specimen) and two novel E. bieneusi genotypes (Bat1 in 13 specimens and Bat2 in 2 specimens). In phylogenetic analysis of DNA sequences, the two novel Cryptosporidium genotypes were genetically related to Bat genotype II previously identified in fruit bats in China and Philippines, whereas the two novel E. bieneusi genotypes were genetically related to Group 5, which contains several known genotypes from primates. With the exception of Type IV, none of the Cryptosporidium and E. bieneusi genotypes found in bats in this study are known human pathogens. Thus, straw-colored fruit bats in Nigeria are mainly infected with host-adapted Cryptosporidium and E. bieneusi genotypes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Na Li
- Key Laboratory of Zoonosis of Ministry of Agriculture, College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510642, China
| | - Adekunle B. Ayinmode
- Department of Veterinary Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria
| | - Hongwei Zhang
- Institute of Parasite Disease Prevention and Control, Henan Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Zhengzhou, Henan, 450016, China
| | - Yaoyu Feng
- Key Laboratory of Zoonosis of Ministry of Agriculture, College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510642, China
| | - Lihua Xiao
- Key Laboratory of Zoonosis of Ministry of Agriculture, College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510642, China
| |
Collapse
|