1
|
Hamidi F, Rostami A, Hosseini SA, Calero-Bernal R, Hajavi J, Ahmadi R, Pazoki H. Anti-Toxoplasma gondii IgG seroprevalence in the general population in Iran: A systematic review and meta-analysis, 2000-2023. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0307941. [PMID: 39208344 PMCID: PMC11361691 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0307941] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2024] [Accepted: 07/16/2024] [Indexed: 09/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Toxoplasmosis ranks among the most prevalent parasitic diseases globally. It seems that chronic toxoplasmosis is associated with several neuropsychiatric and other harmful effects in infected people, therefore, there is a need to investigate the prevalence of toxoplasmosis across various world regions. In this study, we conducted a meticulous meta-analysis to estimate the seroprevalence of anti-Toxoplasma gondii IgG antibodies within the general population in Iran (GPI). International and national scientific databases for studies published between January 1, 2000, and September 30, 2023, were searched. Observational studies reporting anti-T. gondii IgG seroprevalence in the GPI was selected/included. The data were synthesized using a random-effects model to calculate with a 95% confidence interval (95% CI) the national and regional anti-T. gondii IgG seroprevalence rates in Iran. Additionally, subgroup analyses were conducted to investigate the frequency of exposition to T. gondii in different socio-demographic, climatic, and geographical scenarios. From 18661 identified studies, 327 were included in the present meta-analysis, encompassing 122,882 individuals across the 31 Iranian provinces. The pooled nationwide anti-T. gondii IgG seroprevalence among the GPI was determined to be 32.9% (95% CI: 30.9-35.1%). The highest anti-T. gondii IgG seroprevalence was observed in Mazandaran province (North of Iran) (61%), whereas the lowest was in Semnan province (12.5%).Anti-T. gondii IgG seroprevalence demonstrated a higher occurrence in provinces characterized by moderate temperatures of 16-21°C, high relative humidity, and annual precipitation. Additionally, a higher anti-T. gondii IgG seroprevalence was identified among individuals with a habit of consumption of undercooked meat, raw fruits or vegetables, and untreated water. Moreover, those reporting direct contact with cats, possessing a lower level of education, residing in rural areas, being engaged in farming occupations, or playing the role of housewives exhibited higher anti-T. gondii IgG seroprevalence figures.The anti-T. gondii IgG seroprevalence within GPI closely aligns with the estimated worldwide average exposition rates. This underscores the imperative for public health policymakers to prioritize educational efforts regarding toxoplasmosis transmission pathways and its link to harmful effects.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Faezeh Hamidi
- Faculty of Medical Sciences, Department of Laboratory Sciences and Microbiology, Tabriz Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Ali Rostami
- Health Research Institute, Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine Research Centre, Babol University of Medical Sciences, Babol, Iran
| | - Seyed Abdollah Hosseini
- Communicable Disease Institute, Toxoplasmosis Research Center, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Mazandaran, Iran
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Mazandaran University of Medical Science, Sari, Iran
| | - Rafael Calero-Bernal
- Veterinary Faculty, Animal Health Department, SALUVET, Complutense University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Jafar Hajavi
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Medical Microbiology, Infectious Diseases Research Center, Gonabad University of Medical Science, Gonabad, Iran
| | - Reza Ahmadi
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Medical Microbiology, Infectious Diseases Research Center, Gonabad University of Medical Science, Gonabad, Iran
| | - Hossein Pazoki
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Medical Microbiology, Infectious Diseases Research Center, Gonabad University of Medical Science, Gonabad, Iran
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Yang L, Wang B, Wu S, Yang Z, Xin Z, Zheng S, Zou W, Zhang C, Chen J, Peng H. Population-based cohort study of Toxoplasma gondii P22 antibody positivity correlation with anxiety. J Affect Disord 2024; 359:41-48. [PMID: 38729222 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2024.05.043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2024] [Revised: 05/05/2024] [Accepted: 05/07/2024] [Indexed: 05/12/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Accumulating evidence suggests that latent infection with Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii) is associated with a variety of neuropsychiatric and behavioral conditions. This research aims to explore the potential correlation between T. gondii antibody positivity and neuropsychiatric disorders through a comprehensive prospective cohort study. METHODS The cohort study utilized the UK Biobank database to recruit 8814 individuals with no prior diagnosis of neuropsychiatric disorders. Cox proportional hazards models were employed to investigate the associations between T. gondii P22 antibody seropositivity (P22+) and the development of various types of neuropsychiatric disorders. RESULTS Of the population, 14.65 % tested positive for T. gondii P22 antibody. The presence of T. gondii P22 antibody showed a slight inverse association with epilepsy (HR: 0.28; 95 % CI: 0.10-0.77), while it was positively associated with an increased risk of developing anxiety disorders (HR: 1.38; 95 % CI: 1.04-1.83). LIMITATIONS The study sample consisted mostly of white British individuals aged 40 to 69 years old. Although we adjusted for potential confounders, there may be other unmeasured and residual confounding factors that could have influenced our reported associations. CONCLUSIONS The findings suggested an increased risk of anxiety and potential evidence of epilepsy associated with T. gondii P22+. However, our analysis did not reveal an increased risk of several other neuropsychiatric conditions including Alzheimer's disease, dementia, substance abuse disorders, depression, and neurodegenerative disorders, associated with P22 antibody seropositivity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lili Yang
- Department of Pathogen Biology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tropical Diseases Research, School of Public Health, Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases Research in South China, Ministry of Education, Southern Medical University, 1023-1063 South Shatai Rd, Guangzhou city, Guangdong Province 510515, PR China
| | - Biyun Wang
- Department of Pathogen Biology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tropical Diseases Research, School of Public Health, Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases Research in South China, Ministry of Education, Southern Medical University, 1023-1063 South Shatai Rd, Guangzhou city, Guangdong Province 510515, PR China
| | - Shuizhen Wu
- Department of Pathogen Biology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tropical Diseases Research, School of Public Health, Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases Research in South China, Ministry of Education, Southern Medical University, 1023-1063 South Shatai Rd, Guangzhou city, Guangdong Province 510515, PR China
| | - Zihan Yang
- Department of Pathogen Biology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tropical Diseases Research, School of Public Health, Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases Research in South China, Ministry of Education, Southern Medical University, 1023-1063 South Shatai Rd, Guangzhou city, Guangdong Province 510515, PR China
| | - Zixuan Xin
- Department of Pathogen Biology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tropical Diseases Research, School of Public Health, Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases Research in South China, Ministry of Education, Southern Medical University, 1023-1063 South Shatai Rd, Guangzhou city, Guangdong Province 510515, PR China
| | - Shuyu Zheng
- Department of Pathogen Biology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tropical Diseases Research, School of Public Health, Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases Research in South China, Ministry of Education, Southern Medical University, 1023-1063 South Shatai Rd, Guangzhou city, Guangdong Province 510515, PR China
| | - Weihao Zou
- Department of Pathogen Biology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tropical Diseases Research, School of Public Health, Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases Research in South China, Ministry of Education, Southern Medical University, 1023-1063 South Shatai Rd, Guangzhou city, Guangdong Province 510515, PR China
| | - Chi Zhang
- Department of Pathogen Biology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tropical Diseases Research, School of Public Health, Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases Research in South China, Ministry of Education, Southern Medical University, 1023-1063 South Shatai Rd, Guangzhou city, Guangdong Province 510515, PR China
| | - Jiating Chen
- Department of Pathogen Biology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tropical Diseases Research, School of Public Health, Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases Research in South China, Ministry of Education, Southern Medical University, 1023-1063 South Shatai Rd, Guangzhou city, Guangdong Province 510515, PR China
| | - Hongjuan Peng
- Department of Pathogen Biology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tropical Diseases Research, School of Public Health, Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases Research in South China, Ministry of Education, Southern Medical University, 1023-1063 South Shatai Rd, Guangzhou city, Guangdong Province 510515, PR China.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Yang L, Wang B, Yang Z, Zheng S, Xin Z, Wu S, Zou W, Peng H. Toxoplasma gondii infection positively associated with schizophrenia: Evidences from UK Biobank cohort and case-controlled studies. J Psychiatr Res 2024; 175:243-250. [PMID: 38749298 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychires.2024.05.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2024] [Revised: 05/03/2024] [Accepted: 05/08/2024] [Indexed: 09/06/2024]
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii) is an opportunistic pathogen affecting about 1/3 of world population. While often asymptomatic in immunocompetent individuals, it can lead to severe toxoplasmosis in immunocompromised patients. Recent research has unveiled a potential link between T. gondii infection and neuropsychiatric diseases. We implemented both a cohort study and a case control study to further identify this association. In the cohort study, we analyzed data from the UK Biobank database, which included 8814 individuals tested for T. gondii SAG1 antibodies and free of neuropsychiatric disorders at baseline. Among them, 22.52% (n = 1985) tested positive for SAG1 antibody. Over an average follow-up period of 12.26 years, Cox proportional hazards models and logistic regression analysis revealed a significant association between the SAG1 seropositivity at baseline and the incidence of schizophrenia (HR: 5.89; 95% CI: 1.69-20.53). In our case-control study, 239 patients diagnosed with schizophrenia and 455 healthy individuals were involved. Using the modified agglutination test (MAT) to detect T. gondii antibodies, logistic regression analysis showed a higher prevalence of T. gondii infection among schizophrenia patients (10.04%) compared to healthy controls (3.74%). T. gondii infection emerged as a significant risk factor for schizophrenia (OR: 3.33; 95% CI: 1.68-6.61). However, our investigations did not reveal a robust association between T. gondii infection and other neuropsychiatric conditions, including Alzheimer's disease, dementia, anxiety, depression, neurodegenerative disorders, and peripheral neurological disorders such as neurological and plexus disorders.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lili Yang
- Department of Pathogen Biology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tropical Diseases Research, School of Public Health, Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases Research in South China (Southern Medical University), Ministry of Education, Southern Medical University, 1023-1063 South Shatai Rd, Guangzhou City, Guangdong Province, China. 510515.
| | - Biyun Wang
- Department of Pathogen Biology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tropical Diseases Research, School of Public Health, Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases Research in South China (Southern Medical University), Ministry of Education, Southern Medical University, 1023-1063 South Shatai Rd, Guangzhou City, Guangdong Province, China. 510515; Department of Biobank, Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510120, China
| | - Zihan Yang
- Department of Pathogen Biology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tropical Diseases Research, School of Public Health, Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases Research in South China (Southern Medical University), Ministry of Education, Southern Medical University, 1023-1063 South Shatai Rd, Guangzhou City, Guangdong Province, China. 510515
| | - Shuyu Zheng
- Department of Pathogen Biology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tropical Diseases Research, School of Public Health, Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases Research in South China (Southern Medical University), Ministry of Education, Southern Medical University, 1023-1063 South Shatai Rd, Guangzhou City, Guangdong Province, China. 510515
| | - Zixuan Xin
- Department of Pathogen Biology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tropical Diseases Research, School of Public Health, Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases Research in South China (Southern Medical University), Ministry of Education, Southern Medical University, 1023-1063 South Shatai Rd, Guangzhou City, Guangdong Province, China. 510515
| | - Shuizhen Wu
- Department of Pathogen Biology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tropical Diseases Research, School of Public Health, Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases Research in South China (Southern Medical University), Ministry of Education, Southern Medical University, 1023-1063 South Shatai Rd, Guangzhou City, Guangdong Province, China. 510515
| | - Weihao Zou
- Department of Pathogen Biology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tropical Diseases Research, School of Public Health, Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases Research in South China (Southern Medical University), Ministry of Education, Southern Medical University, 1023-1063 South Shatai Rd, Guangzhou City, Guangdong Province, China. 510515
| | - Hongjuan Peng
- Department of Pathogen Biology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tropical Diseases Research, School of Public Health, Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases Research in South China (Southern Medical University), Ministry of Education, Southern Medical University, 1023-1063 South Shatai Rd, Guangzhou City, Guangdong Province, China. 510515.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Vilibic-Cavlek T, Kolaric B, Belamaric M, Sviben M, Ferenc T, Navolan D, Bekic V, Milasincic L, Antolasic L, Vilibic M, Vujica Ferenc M, Reicher E, Jezek T, Ciohat I, Parvanescu RC, Kos M, Bogdanic M. Screening for TORCH Antibodies in Croatian Childbearing-Aged Women, 2014-2023. Antibodies (Basel) 2024; 13:49. [PMID: 38920973 PMCID: PMC11200394 DOI: 10.3390/antib13020049] [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: 04/26/2024] [Revised: 05/28/2024] [Accepted: 06/11/2024] [Indexed: 06/27/2024] Open
Abstract
TORCH infections usually result in mild maternal morbidity, but may cause severe congenital abnormalities. Therefore, it is important to detect maternal infections, monitor the fetus after the disease has been recognized, and define the seronegative women who are at risk of primary infection during pregnancy. From 2014 to 2023, serum samples from 1032 childbearing-aged and pregnant women (16-45 years) were tested for IgM/IgG antibodies to the most common TORCH pathogens: Toxoplasma gondii, rubella virus (RUBV), cytomegalovirus (CMV), and herpes simplex viruses (HSV-1 and HSV-2). The overall IgG seroprevalence rates were 20.1% for T. gondii, 91.3% for RUBV, 70.5% for CMV, 66.8% for HSV-1, and 3.5% for HSV-2. Only HSV-2 seroprevalence was age-related, with a significant progressive increase in seropositivity from 0% in those aged less than 26 years to 9.3% in those older than 40 years. The seroprevalence of T. gondii was higher in residents of suburban/rural areas than in residents of urban areas (27.4% vs. 17.1%). In addition, participants from continental regions were more often toxoplasma-seropositive than those from coastal regions (22.2% vs. 15.3%). HSV-1 seroprevalence was also higher in suburban/rural areas (71.7% vs. 64.7%). Obstetric history was not associated with TORCH seropositivity. Univariate and multivariate risk analysis showed that suburban/rural areas of residence and continental geographic regions were significant risk factors for T. gondii seroprevalence. Furthermore, suburban/rural area of residence was a significant risk factor for HSV-1 seroprevalence, while older age was a significant risk factor for HSV-2 seroprevalence. A declining trend in the seroprevalence of all TORCH pathogens was observed compared to previous Croatian studies (2005-2011). Similarly, the proportion of women simultaneously IgG-seropositive to two or three pathogens decreased over time. The maternal serology before pregnancy could potentially reduce the burden of congenital TORCH infections.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tatjana Vilibic-Cavlek
- Department of Virology, Croatian Institute of Public Health, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia; (V.B.); (L.M.); (L.A.); (M.B.)
- School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia; (M.S.); (E.R.); (T.J.)
| | - Branko Kolaric
- Andrija Stampar Teaching Institute of Public Health, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
- Department of Social Medicine and Epidemiology, Medical Faculty, University of Rijeka, 51000 Rijeka, Croatia
| | - Marko Belamaric
- Teaching Institute for Emergency Medicine, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia;
| | - Mario Sviben
- School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia; (M.S.); (E.R.); (T.J.)
- Department of Parasitology, Croatian Institute of Public Health, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Thomas Ferenc
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, University Hospital Merkur, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia;
| | - Dan Navolan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, ‘Victor Babes’ University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 300041 Timisoara, Romania;
| | - Viktor Bekic
- Department of Virology, Croatian Institute of Public Health, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia; (V.B.); (L.M.); (L.A.); (M.B.)
| | - Ljiljana Milasincic
- Department of Virology, Croatian Institute of Public Health, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia; (V.B.); (L.M.); (L.A.); (M.B.)
| | - Ljiljana Antolasic
- Department of Virology, Croatian Institute of Public Health, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia; (V.B.); (L.M.); (L.A.); (M.B.)
| | - Maja Vilibic
- Department of Psychiatry, Sestre Milosrdnice University Hospital Center, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia;
- School of Medicine, Catholic University of Croatia, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Mateja Vujica Ferenc
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital Centre Zagreb, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia;
| | - Ema Reicher
- School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia; (M.S.); (E.R.); (T.J.)
| | - Tadej Jezek
- School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia; (M.S.); (E.R.); (T.J.)
| | - Ioana Ciohat
- Antenatal Medicine Laboratory, Timisoara City Emergency Hospital, 300202 Timisoara, Romania; (I.C.); (R.C.P.)
| | - Raluca Catalina Parvanescu
- Antenatal Medicine Laboratory, Timisoara City Emergency Hospital, 300202 Timisoara, Romania; (I.C.); (R.C.P.)
| | - Matea Kos
- Synlab Polyclinic for Medicine Laboratory Diagnostics, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia;
| | - Maja Bogdanic
- Department of Virology, Croatian Institute of Public Health, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia; (V.B.); (L.M.); (L.A.); (M.B.)
- School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia; (M.S.); (E.R.); (T.J.)
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Hasan MF, Harun AB, Hossain D, Bristi SZT, Uddin AHMM, Karim MR. Toxoplasmosis in animals and humans: a neglected zoonotic disease in Bangladesh. J Parasit Dis 2024; 48:189-200. [PMID: 38840887 PMCID: PMC11147975 DOI: 10.1007/s12639-024-01664-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2023] [Accepted: 03/21/2024] [Indexed: 06/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Toxoplasmosis, caused by Toxoplasma gondii, is a zoonotic disease that affects a wide range of warm-blooded animals, including humans. The parasite undergoes both sexual and asexual reproduction in intermediate hosts (humans and animals) and definitive hosts (cats). Transmission in humans occurs through consuming oocyst-contaminated water, fruits, vegetables, and raw or undercooked meats. In Bangladesh, several factors contribute to an increased risk of contracting toxoplasmosis. The parasite is reported to cause diseases among livestock such as goats and sheep in this country, and it has also been associated with some human illnesses. Toxoplasmosis prevalence varies significantly worldwide, with developing countries like Bangladesh experiencing higher rates. Diagnostic methods include both conventional non-DNA-based tests and molecular detection techniques, while treatment options involve using antiparasitic drugs like sulfadiazine and pyrimethamine. To control toxoplasmosis, essential steps include improving sanitation, promoting safe food handling, and educating the public about risks related to cat ownership and undercooked meat consumption. Implementing prenatal screening and treatment is also important. With the growing popularity of pet ownership in urban areas, it becomes essential to emphasize the veterinary and public health significance of toxoplasmosis in Bangladesh. This article comprehensively reviews various aspects of toxoplasmosis, with a specific focus on the situation in Bangladesh.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Md. Farhan Hasan
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman Agricultural University, Gazipur, 1706 Bangladesh
| | - Anas Bin Harun
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman Agricultural University, Gazipur, 1706 Bangladesh
| | - Delower Hossain
- Department of Medicine and Public Health, Faculty of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Sher-e-Bangla Agricultural University, Dhaka, 1207 Bangladesh
| | - Sabiha Zarin Tasnim Bristi
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Chattogram Veterinary and Animal Sciences University, Chattogram, 4225 Bangladesh
| | - A. H. M. Musleh Uddin
- Department of Surgery and Theriogenology, Faculty of Veterinary, Animal and Biomedical Sciences, Sylhet Agricultural University, Sylhet, 3100 Bangladesh
| | - Md Robiul Karim
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman Agricultural University, Gazipur, 1706 Bangladesh
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Abdullah SH. Molecular evidence of Toxoplasma gondii from the tissue and blood of naturally infected sheep. Ital J Food Saf 2024; 13:12257. [PMID: 38807739 PMCID: PMC11128978 DOI: 10.4081/ijfs.2024.12257] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2024] [Accepted: 02/29/2024] [Indexed: 05/30/2024] Open
Abstract
Toxoplasmosis is a cosmopolitan zoonotic infection that has significant effects on public health and causes economic losses in the livestock industry. The current study was designed to detect the Toxoplasma parasite in sheep blood samples and tissue samples of slaughtered sheep at the Sulaimani abattoir using molecular technique. A total of 300 peripheral sheep blood samples were randomly collected from 20 small ruminant flocks at 4 locations in the Sulaymaniyah province, northern Iraq. Also, 150 meat samples from thigh muscle, heart, and diaphragm were collected from slaughtered sheep. All collected blood samples were subjected to polymerase chain reaction (PCR) amplification to confirm Toxoplasma infection; in addition, meat samples were also analyzed for Toxoplasma by PCR following the digestion process. Of the 300 amplified blood samples, 94 were considered positive for Toxoplasma gondii, with a prevalence rate of 31.3%. The overall prevalence of Toxoplasma among meat samples was 34%. The diaphragm reported a higher infection rate (46%) than the heart (32%), while the femoral muscle reported an infection rate of 24%. Aged animals (older than 24 months) presented a higher infection rate (32.8%) than younger animals (28.9%). Contact with or consumption of uncooked meat from infected sheep increases the chance of parasite transmission to humans.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shadan Hassan Abdullah
- Department of Microbiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Sulaimani, Sulaymaniyah, Iraq
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Condoleo R, Santori D, Sezzi E, Serra S, Tonon S, Eleni C, Bosco A, Papa Caminiti LN, Iulietto MF. Comparison of Direct and Indirect Detection of Toxoplasma gondii in Ovine Using Real-Time PCR, Serological and Histological Techniques. Animals (Basel) 2024; 14:1432. [PMID: 38791651 PMCID: PMC11117211 DOI: 10.3390/ani14101432] [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: 04/10/2024] [Revised: 05/03/2024] [Accepted: 05/06/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii is a zoonotic pathogen and the ingestion of tissue cysts by consumption of lamb or mutton has been identified as a possible cause of infection in humans. Many serological surveys in sheep have been performed, showing relevant serological rates; however, while the detection of antibodies indicates an exposure to T. gondii, this does not necessarily imply the presence of tissue cysts in edible tissue. The current study aims to provide further understanding on the occurrence of T. gondii in sheep muscles and the strength of correlation between serological positivity and presence of the parasite in sheep. From 349 sheep, samples (i.e., blood, heart and diaphragm) were collected and subjected to ELISA tests, real-time PCR and histological tests. Despite the high seroprevalence, T. gondii DNA was detected in the heart and/or the diaphragm from 13 out of the 349 tested sheep (3.7%); all were adults (13/191). Furthermore, the histological tests did not reveal the presence of T. gondii tissue cysts in any of the examined portions of interventricular septum. It should be considered that the likelihood of detecting genetic material of the parasite is probably influenced by the uneven distribution of the tissue cysts in the carcass as well as the methodology applied. The findings of this study support the importance of describing the uncertainty associated with the data used for risk assessment to reduce inaccurate estimation or risk overestimation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Roberto Condoleo
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Lazio e della Toscana, 00178 Rome, Italy; (D.S.); (E.S.); (S.T.); (C.E.); (L.N.P.C.); (M.F.I.)
| | - Davide Santori
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Lazio e della Toscana, 00178 Rome, Italy; (D.S.); (E.S.); (S.T.); (C.E.); (L.N.P.C.); (M.F.I.)
| | - Erminia Sezzi
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Lazio e della Toscana, 00178 Rome, Italy; (D.S.); (E.S.); (S.T.); (C.E.); (L.N.P.C.); (M.F.I.)
| | - Salvatore Serra
- Viterbo Local Health Unit, Veterinary Services, 01100 Viterbo, Italy;
| | - Sara Tonon
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Lazio e della Toscana, 00178 Rome, Italy; (D.S.); (E.S.); (S.T.); (C.E.); (L.N.P.C.); (M.F.I.)
| | - Claudia Eleni
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Lazio e della Toscana, 00178 Rome, Italy; (D.S.); (E.S.); (S.T.); (C.E.); (L.N.P.C.); (M.F.I.)
| | - Antonio Bosco
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Federico II University, 80137 Naples, Italy;
| | - Lucy Nicole Papa Caminiti
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Lazio e della Toscana, 00178 Rome, Italy; (D.S.); (E.S.); (S.T.); (C.E.); (L.N.P.C.); (M.F.I.)
| | - Maria Francesca Iulietto
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Lazio e della Toscana, 00178 Rome, Italy; (D.S.); (E.S.); (S.T.); (C.E.); (L.N.P.C.); (M.F.I.)
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Grada S, Mihu AG, Oatis DA, Marc CC, Chicea LM, Petrescu C, Lupu AM, Olariu TR. Seroprevalence and Associated Risk Factors of Toxoplasma gondii in Patients Diagnosed with Schizophrenia: A Case-Control Cross Sectional Study. Biomedicines 2024; 12:998. [PMID: 38790960 PMCID: PMC11117935 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines12050998] [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: 04/06/2024] [Revised: 04/27/2024] [Accepted: 04/29/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
The protozoan parasite, Toxoplasma gondii, has been linked to several psychiatric disorders, including schizophrenia. The aim of this study was to assess the prevalence of T. gondii IgG antibodies and risk factors associated with seroprevalence in patients diagnosed with schizophrenia. This seroepidemiological study assessed 196 participants, divided into two groups. The study group consisted of 98 schizophrenic patients and was matched with 98 healthy blood donors. A questionnaire was used to gather information regarding potential risk factors associated with T. gondii seroprevalence. Results revealed a higher seroprevalence of T. gondii IgG antibodies in schizophrenic patients (69.39%, 68/98) when compared to healthy controls (51.02%, 50/98) (OR: 2.18; 95% CI: 1.21-3.9; p = 0.01). Patients with schizophrenia who consumed raw or undercooked meat (80.65%, 25/31) (OR: 3.75; 95% CI: 1.25-11.21, p = 0.02) and those with a lower educational level (77.59%, 45/58) (OR: 3.5; 95% CI: 1.59-7.54, p = 0.002) presented increased T. gondii seropositivity rates versus their control counterparts. Our findings indicate a high T. gondii IgG seroprevalence in patients diagnosed with schizophrenia compared to healthy blood donors. Factors associated with T. gondii seroprevalence were consumption of raw or uncooked meat and a lower educational attainment. This study provided the first data regarding the potential risk factors for toxoplasmosis in Romanian patients diagnosed with schizophrenia and may serve as a foundation for future research and the development of preventive strategies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sebastian Grada
- Discipline of Parasitology, Department of Infectious Disease, Victor Babes University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 300041 Timisoara, Romania; (S.G.); (T.R.O.)
- Center for Diagnosis and Study of Parasitic Diseases, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 300041 Timisoara, Romania;
| | - Alin Gabriel Mihu
- “Aurel Ardelean” Institute of Life Sciences, Vasile Goldis Western University of Arad, 86 Rebreanu, 310414 Arad, Romania;
- Department of Biology and Life Sciences, Vasile Goldis Western University, 310300 Arad, Romania
- Patogen Preventia, 300124 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Daniela Adriana Oatis
- “Aurel Ardelean” Institute of Life Sciences, Vasile Goldis Western University of Arad, 86 Rebreanu, 310414 Arad, Romania;
- Department of Infectious Disease, Faculty of Medicine, Vasile Goldis Western University, 310300 Arad, Romania
| | - Constantin Catalin Marc
- Center for Diagnosis and Study of Parasitic Diseases, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 300041 Timisoara, Romania;
- Department of Biology and Life Sciences, Vasile Goldis Western University, 310300 Arad, Romania
| | - Liana Maria Chicea
- Department II Medical Clinic, “Victor Papilian” Faculty of Medicine, Lucian Blaga University of Sibiu, 550024 Sibiu, Romania;
- Internal Medicine Department, Academic Emergency Hospital, 550245 Sibiu, Romania
| | - Cristina Petrescu
- Discipline of Hygiene, Department of Microbiology, Victor Babes University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 300041 Timisoara, Romania;
| | - Alina Maria Lupu
- Discipline of Parasitology, Department of Infectious Disease, Victor Babes University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 300041 Timisoara, Romania; (S.G.); (T.R.O.)
- Center for Diagnosis and Study of Parasitic Diseases, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 300041 Timisoara, Romania;
- Patogen Preventia, 300124 Timisoara, Romania
- Clinical Laboratory, Institute of Cardiovascular Diseases, 300310 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Tudor Rares Olariu
- Discipline of Parasitology, Department of Infectious Disease, Victor Babes University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 300041 Timisoara, Romania; (S.G.); (T.R.O.)
- Center for Diagnosis and Study of Parasitic Diseases, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 300041 Timisoara, Romania;
- Patogen Preventia, 300124 Timisoara, Romania
- Clinical Laboratory, Municipal Clinical Emergency Teaching Hospital, 300254 Timisoara, Romania
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Klinbumrung K, Prakhammin K, Japa O. Molecular prevalence of Toxoplasma gondii and Trypanosoma evansi in recently calved female cattle from Phayao, Thailand. Vet World 2024; 17:756-762. [PMID: 38798300 PMCID: PMC11111709 DOI: 10.14202/vetworld.2024.756-762] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2023] [Accepted: 03/11/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Background and Aim Toxoplasma gondii and Trypanosoma evansi, the zoonotic protozoa responsible for toxoplasmosis and trypanosomiasis, are significant threats to the productivity and financial stability of livestock farming. T. gondii can be transmitted horizontally through ingestion of fecal oocysts and T. evansi through arthropod vectors. In addition, both species can be transmitted from mother to fetus through the placenta. This study aimed to assess the molecular prevalence of T. gondii and T. evansi transplacental-transmitted protozoans and to identify the epidemiological risk factors in recently calved female cattle across Phayao, Thailand. Materials and Methods We collected 106 bovine placentas from beef and dairy cow full-term pregnancies in Phayao, Thailand. T. gondii and T. evansi DNA were detected using targeted B1 gene and expression site-associated gene (ESAG) species-specific polymerase chain reaction (PCR), respectively. Results Forty-three placentas were positive for T. gondii B1 PCR, whereas only one was positive for T. evansi ESAG PCR, resulting in an overall prevalence of transplacental-transmitted protozoan infection of 41.5% (44/106). The prevalence of T. gondii and T. evansi was 40.6% (43/106) and 0.9% (1/106), respectively. No significant correlation was found between T. gondii infection and various risk factors, including locality, age, and cattle type. Conclusion The prevalence of transplacental-transmitted protozoan T. gondii infection was high among female cattle in Phayao, Thailand, whereas the prevalence of T. evansi infection was notably lower. Although the conventional modes of transmission differ between these two parasites, the transplacental transmission of T. evansi and especially T. gondii may play a crucial role in the persistence of these protozoan species in this area.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Khuruwan Klinbumrung
- Scientific Instrument and Product Standard Quality Inspection Center, University of Phayao, Phayao, Thailand
| | - Khanuengnij Prakhammin
- Department of Applied Statistics, Rajamangala University of Technology Isan, Khon Kaen Campus, Khon Kaen, Thailand
| | - Ornampai Japa
- Scientific Instrument and Product Standard Quality Inspection Center, University of Phayao, Phayao, Thailand
- Division of Microbiology and Parasitology, School of Medical Sciences, University of Phayao, Phayao, Thailand
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Masombuka M, Mphuthi MBN, Ngoshe YB, Mokolopi G, Gcebe N. Seroprevalence and risk factors of Toxoplasma gondii in sheep and goats of North West Province, South Africa. BMC Vet Res 2024; 20:120. [PMID: 38532402 DOI: 10.1186/s12917-024-03939-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2023] [Accepted: 02/16/2024] [Indexed: 03/28/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The protozoan parasite Toxoplasma gondii causes toxoplasmosis, one of the most prevalent parasitic zoonotic diseases with significant economic and public health implications worldwide. Infection with the parasite has a significant adverse effect on sheep and goat production and can frequently go undetected in the herd, resulting in abortions and weak or dead offspring. Although there are few studies on seroprevalence and risk factors associated with T. gondii infections in livestock in other provinces of South Africa, there is no data in the North West province. Therefore, a cross-sectional study was conducted to investigate the seroprevalence of T. gondii and risk factors associated with exposure in sheep and goats of the North West province of South Africa. Sera from 439 livestock (164 sheep and 285 goats) were collected and analysed for the presence of T. gondii IgG antibodies using indirect ELISA (Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay). An assessment of potential risk factors in farms associated with seropositivity was also conducted using a structured questionnaire. RESULTS Out of the 439 tested sheep and goats, 13.9% (61/439) were positive for IgG antibodies against T. gondii. Sheep and goats had seroprevalences of 19.5% (32/164) and 10.5% (29/275) respectively. In the multivariable logistic regression model, the risk of acquiring T. gondii was significantly higher in the mixed breed [Odds ratio (OR) = 71.07; 95% confidence interval (CI): 266.8-1893.1; p < 0.011)] animals than white dorper sheep and in farms that burn or bury aborted material (OR = 42.04; CI: 179.9-982.5; p = 0.020) compared to those that only burn aborted material. The risk was lower for the farms in Kagisano-Molopo (OR = 0.00; CI: 0.0-25.4; p = 0.015) and Mahikeng (OR = 0.00; CI: 0.0-4.9; p < 0.001) local municipalities than Greater Taung local municipality, and for the animals that drink water from dams (OR = 0.03; CI: 0.2-58.8; p = 0.021) than those that drink from boreholes. CONCLUSION The seroprevalence and risk factors associated with transmission observed show that T. gondii infection is widespread in sheep and goats of the North West province.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mthokozisi Masombuka
- Department of Agriculture and Animal Health, College of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences, University of South Africa, Science Campus, Private Bag X6, Florida, Johannesburg, 1710, South Africa.
- Department of Animal Health, School of Agricultural Sciences, North-West University, Private Bag X2046, Mmabatho, 2735, South Africa.
| | - Malekoba B N Mphuthi
- Department of Animal Health, School of Agricultural Sciences, North-West University, Private Bag X2046, Mmabatho, 2735, South Africa
| | - Yusuf B Ngoshe
- Epidemiology Section, Department of Production Animal Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Private Bag X04, Onderstepoort, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Gloria Mokolopi
- Department of Agriculture and Animal Health, College of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences, University of South Africa, Science Campus, Private Bag X6, Florida, Johannesburg, 1710, South Africa
| | - Nomakorinte Gcebe
- Agricultural Research Council- Onderstepoort Veterinary Research, Bacteriology, and Zoonotic Diseases Laboratory, 100 Old Soutpan Road, Onderstepoort, Pretoria, 0110, South Africa
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Cristaldi C, Saldarriaga Cartagena AM, Ganuza A, Sullivan WJ, Angel SO, Vanagas L. Evaluation of topotecan and 10-hydroxycamptothecin on Toxoplasma gondii: Implications on baseline DNA damage and repair efficiency. Int J Parasitol Drugs Drug Resist 2023; 23:120-129. [PMID: 38043188 PMCID: PMC10730954 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpddr.2023.11.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2023] [Revised: 10/30/2023] [Accepted: 11/14/2023] [Indexed: 12/05/2023]
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii is an obligate intracellular parasite in the phylum Apicomplexa that causes toxoplasmosis in humans and animals worldwide. Despite its prevalence, there is currently no effective vaccine or treatment for chronic infection. Although there are therapies against the acute stage, prolonged use is toxic and poorly tolerated. This study aims to explore the potential of repurposing topotecan and 10-hydroxycamptothecin (HCPT) as drugs producing double strand breaks (DSBs) in T. gondii. DSBs are mainly repaired by Homologous Recombination Repair (HRR) and Non-Homologous End Joining (NHEJ). Two T. gondii strains, RHΔHXGPRT and RHΔKU80, were used to compare the drug's effects on parasites. RHΔHXGPRT parasites may use both HRR and NHEJ pathways but RHΔKU80 lacks the KU80 protein needed for NHEJ, leaving only the HRR pathway. Here we demonstrate that topotecan and HCPT, both topoisomerase I venoms, affected parasite replication in a concentration-dependent manner. Moreover, variations in fluorescence intensity measurements for the H2A.X phosphorylation mark (γH2A.X), an indicator of DNA damage, were observed in intracellular parasites under drug treatment conditions. Interestingly, intracellular replicative parasites without drug treatment show a strong positive staining for γH2A.X, suggesting inherent DNA damage. Extracellular (non-replicating) parasites did not exhibit γH2A.X staining, indicating that the basal level of DNA damage is likely to be associated with replicative stress. A high rate of DNA replication stress possibly prompted the evolution of an efficient repair machinery in the parasite, making it an attractive target. Our findings show that topoisomerase 1 venoms are effective antiparasitics blocking T. gondii replication.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Constanza Cristaldi
- Laboratorio de Parasitología Molecular, Instituto Tecnológico de Chascomús (CONICET-UNSAM). Chascomús, Provincia de Buenos Aires, Argentina; Escuela de Bio y Nanotecnologías (UNSAM), Argentina
| | - Ana M Saldarriaga Cartagena
- Laboratorio de Parasitología Molecular, Instituto Tecnológico de Chascomús (CONICET-UNSAM). Chascomús, Provincia de Buenos Aires, Argentina; Escuela de Bio y Nanotecnologías (UNSAM), Argentina
| | - Agustina Ganuza
- Laboratorio de Parasitología Molecular, Instituto Tecnológico de Chascomús (CONICET-UNSAM). Chascomús, Provincia de Buenos Aires, Argentina; Escuela de Bio y Nanotecnologías (UNSAM), Argentina
| | - William J Sullivan
- Pharmacology and Toxicology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, United States; Microbiology and Immunology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, United States
| | - Sergio O Angel
- Laboratorio de Parasitología Molecular, Instituto Tecnológico de Chascomús (CONICET-UNSAM). Chascomús, Provincia de Buenos Aires, Argentina; Escuela de Bio y Nanotecnologías (UNSAM), Argentina.
| | - Laura Vanagas
- Laboratorio de Parasitología Molecular, Instituto Tecnológico de Chascomús (CONICET-UNSAM). Chascomús, Provincia de Buenos Aires, Argentina; Escuela de Bio y Nanotecnologías (UNSAM), Argentina.
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Dini F, Morselli S, Marangoni A, Taddei R, Maioli G, Roncarati G, Balboni A, Dondi F, Lunetta F, Galuppi R. Spread of Toxoplasma gondii among animals and humans in Northern Italy: A retrospective analysis in a One-Health framework. Food Waterborne Parasitol 2023; 32:e00197. [PMID: 37333686 PMCID: PMC10273278 DOI: 10.1016/j.fawpar.2023.e00197] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2023] [Revised: 05/31/2023] [Accepted: 06/03/2023] [Indexed: 06/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Toxoplasmosis occurs worldwide and is considered one of the most important food-borne parasitic zoonoses. The consumption of undercooked meat containing viable tissue cysts and ingestion of environmental oocyst are the most important sources of infection. The aim of this retrospective study was to evaluate the spread of Toxoplasma gondii in the province of Bologna (Emilia-Romagna region) in northern Italy, with a One Health approach, comparing seropositivity rates in different animal species and in humans over the last 19 and 4 years respectively. Analyses were performed on serological data collected over different periods at three separate locations: Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Lombardia e della Emilia-Romagna (IZSLER); Veterinary University Hospital Clinical Pathology Service, Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, University of Bologna; and Unit of Microbiology, St. Orsola Hospital, Bologna. Most relevant seropositivity rates observed in animals were 15.5% (wild boar), 25% (roe deer), 18.7% (goat), 29.9% (sheep), 9.7% (pigs), 42.9% and 21.8% in cat and dog, respectively. A comprehensive screening was conducted on a population of 36,814 individuals, revealing a prevalence of 20.4%. Among pregnant women, a frequence of 0.39% for active toxoplasmosis was observed. Despite certain limitations, this study provided valuable insights into the extensive distribution of this parasitic infection among diverse animal species and human populations in the province of Bologna. These findings underscore the importance of implementing consistent and proactive toxoplasmosis screening protocols during pregnancy, while emphasizing the critical need for adopting a One Health approach for effective control of this parasitic disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- F.M. Dini
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, University of Bologna, Italy
| | - S. Morselli
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Bologna, Italy
| | - A. Marangoni
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Bologna, Italy
| | - R. Taddei
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale Della Lombardia e della Emilia-Romagna, Italy
| | - G. Maioli
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale Della Lombardia e della Emilia-Romagna, Italy
| | - G. Roncarati
- Microbiology Unit, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy
| | - A. Balboni
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, University of Bologna, Italy
| | - F. Dondi
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, University of Bologna, Italy
| | - F. Lunetta
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, University of Bologna, Italy
| | - R. Galuppi
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, University of Bologna, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
de Martinis C, Pucciarelli A, Ottaiano M, Pellicanò R, Baldi L, Veneziano V, Sgroi G, Boccia F, Carbone C, Cardillo L, Fusco G. Toxoplasma gondii Investigation of Home-Reared Pigs through Real-Time PCR and Digital Droplet PCR: A Very Low Prevalence. Pathogens 2023; 12:882. [PMID: 37513729 PMCID: PMC10384325 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens12070882] [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: 05/25/2023] [Revised: 06/22/2023] [Accepted: 06/26/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii is a widespread protozoon that can infect both animals and humans. The main route of human infection is the consumption of the raw or undercooked meat of several animal species, including pigs. Although T. gondii represents a public health concern, control during slaughter is not mandatory, leading to a lack of information on the impact on human contagion as well as poor data availability in domestic animals intended for human consumption. We studied the presence of T. gondii in home-reared pigs, an unconventional type of farming subjected to stringent breeding conditions dictated by Italian regulation. Thus, the diaphragms, livers and masseter muscles from 480 pigs in Napoli Province (Italy) were analyzed using real-time PCR and digital droplet PCR. The results showed four matrices that tested positive for T. gondii with very low protozoan loads (0.62%), belonging to three different animals. The low density of the animals (the maximum was four animals per farm) and the biosafety farming features decisively contributed to the bioexclusion of this pathogen. Comparing these results to intensive and extensive farm data, lower exposure to the parasite was revealed, suggesting that this farming method might mitigate the risk of human exposure through meat consumption.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Claudio de Martinis
- Unit of Exotic and Vector-Borne Diseases, Department of Animal Health, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Mezzogiorno, 80055 Naples, Italy
| | - Alessia Pucciarelli
- Unit of Exotic and Vector-Borne Diseases, Department of Animal Health, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Mezzogiorno, 80055 Naples, Italy
| | - Maria Ottaiano
- Regional Observatory of Epidemiology and Biostatistic, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Mezzogiorno, 80055 Naples, Italy
| | - Roberta Pellicanò
- Regional Observatory of Epidemiology and Biostatistic, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Mezzogiorno, 80055 Naples, Italy
| | - Loredana Baldi
- Regional Observatory of Epidemiology and Biostatistic, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Mezzogiorno, 80055 Naples, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Veneziano
- Dipartimento di Medicina Veterinaria e Produzioni Animali, 80137 Napoli, Italy
| | - Giovanni Sgroi
- Unit of Wildlife, Department of Animal Health, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Mezzogiorno, 80055 Naples, Italy
| | - Federica Boccia
- Azienda Sanitaria Locale (ASL) Napoli 3 Sud, Unit of Animal Health, Department of Prevention, 80059 Naples, Italy
| | - Carmine Carbone
- Azienda Sanitaria Locale (ASL) Napoli 3 Sud, Unit of Animal Health, Department of Prevention, 80059 Naples, Italy
| | - Lorena Cardillo
- Unit of Exotic and Vector-Borne Diseases, Department of Animal Health, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Mezzogiorno, 80055 Naples, Italy
| | - Giovanna Fusco
- Unit of Virology, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Mezzogiorno, 80055 Naples, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Kuruca L, Belluco S, Vieira-Pinto M, Antic D, Blagojevic B. Current control options and a way towards risk-based control of Toxoplasma gondii in the meat chain. Food Control 2023. [DOI: 10.1016/j.foodcont.2022.109556] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
|
15
|
Marzok M, Al-Jabr OA, Salem M, Alkashif K, Sayed-Ahmed M, Wakid MH, Kandeel M, Selim A. Seroprevalence and Risk Factors for Toxoplasma gondii Infection in Horses. Vet Sci 2023; 10:vetsci10030237. [PMID: 36977276 PMCID: PMC10057672 DOI: 10.3390/vetsci10030237] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2023] [Revised: 03/14/2023] [Accepted: 03/16/2023] [Indexed: 03/30/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Toxoplasma gondii is classified as intracellular protozoa and is one of the major zoonotic parasites. Most warm-blooded intermediate hosts, including humans, are commonly infected by this parasite. The epidemiology of T. gondii infection in Egyptian horses is currently poorly understood. METHODS 420 blood samples were randomly collected from horses raised in four governorates in Northern Egypt (110 each from Giza and Kafr El Sheikh, and 100 each from Qalyubia and Gharbia) to investigate the existence of antibodies against T. gondii using a commercial ELISA kit, and to ascertain the risk factors for the infection. RESULTS the antibodies for T. gondii were found in 16.2% (68/420) of the examined horses, with no significant differences among the four studied governorates. The highest prevalence rate was observed in Giza. The results revealed that sex, breed, age, and contact with domestic ruminants or cats were recognized as potential risk factors. The high prevalence rate was found in mixed breed horses (OR = 2.63, 95% CI: 0.95-7.26), mares (OR = 2.35, 95% CI: 1.31-4.19), and horses aged over 10 years (OR = 2.78, 95% CI: 1.30-3.44). Moreover, the likelihood of seropositivity for T. gondii infection was higher in horses raised in environments with cats (OR = 1.97, 95% CI: 1.13-3.44, p = 0.017) or domestic ruminants (OR = 2.16, 1.21-3.86, p = 0.010). This report confirms that horses in Northern Egypt are exposed to T. gondii and thus raises the possibility that people and other animals could contract the disease. CONCLUSIONS routine examination and management of T. gondii infection in horses in these governorates is advised.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mohamed Marzok
- Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, King Faisal University, Al-Hofuf 31982, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kafr El Sheikh University, Kafr El Sheikh 33511, Egypt
- King Faisal University Veterinary Hospital, Al-Asha 31982, Saudi Arabia
| | - Omar A Al-Jabr
- Department of Microbiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, King Faisal University, Al-Asha 31982, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohamed Salem
- Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, King Faisal University, Al-Hofuf 31982, Saudi Arabia
- King Faisal University Veterinary Hospital, Al-Asha 31982, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Medicine and Infectious Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo 12613, Egypt
| | - Khalid Alkashif
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, Jazan University, Jazan 82722, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohamed Sayed-Ahmed
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Jazan University, Jazan 82722, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Internal Medicine and Infectious Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura 35516, Egypt
| | - Majed H Wakid
- Department of Medical Laboratory Technology, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia
- Special Infectious Agents Unit, King Fahd Medical Research Center, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mahmoud Kandeel
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kafr El Sheikh University, Kafr El Sheikh 33511, Egypt
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, King Faisal University, Al-Ahsa 31982, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abdelfattah Selim
- Department of Animal Medicine (Infectious Diseases), Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Benha University, Toukh 13736, Egypt
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Migratory Wild Birds as Potential Long-Distance Transmitters of Toxoplasma gondii Infection. Pathogens 2023; 12:pathogens12030478. [PMID: 36986400 PMCID: PMC10051421 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens12030478] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2023] [Revised: 03/14/2023] [Accepted: 03/17/2023] [Indexed: 03/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii is a worldwide distributed zoonotic protozoan capable of infecting a wide range of mammals (including humans) and birds as intermediate hosts. Migratory wild birds, through interconnecting countries along their flyways, can play a role in the spatial spread of T. gondii and could contribute to its sylvatic cycle. Additionally, hunted wild birds used for meat consumption could represent a further source of human infection. To determine the presence of T. gondii in wild birds, a total of 50 individuals belonging to the Anseriformes and Charadriiformes orders were sampled during the 2021–2022 hunting season in Northern Italy. Cardiac muscle samples of three Northern shovelers (Anas clypeata), two wild mallards (A. platyrhynchos), one Eurasian teal (A. crecca), and one Northern lapwing (Vanellus vanellus) were positive for the molecular detection of T. gondii based on a targeted amplification of the B1 gene. A 14% (7/50) overall positivity was observed in the sampled population. Results from this study suggest a moderate exposure of wild aquatic birds to T. gondii, highlighting the importance of a further characterization of T. gondii in its wildlife hosts.
Collapse
|
17
|
Genetic diversity of Toxoplasma gondii isolates from birds in the world: A systematic review. Exp Parasitol 2023; 248:108480. [PMID: 36863682 DOI: 10.1016/j.exppara.2023.108480] [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: 11/14/2022] [Revised: 01/23/2023] [Accepted: 02/02/2023] [Indexed: 03/04/2023]
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii) is one of the most important foodborne pathogens that infects a large number of vertebrate species and has a cosmopolitan distribution. Birds as intermediate hosts are very important in the life cycle of T. gondii and they can be a main source of infection for humans and felids, as well as other animals. Most species of birds feed from the ground and are the best indicator for soil contamination with T. gondii oocysts. Hence, T. gondii strains isolated from birds can represent different genotypes circulating in the environment and their main predators and consumers. The recent systematic review tries to represent the population structure of T. gondii in birds around the world. Six English language databases were searched from 1990 to 2020 to find the related studies and overall, 1275 isolates of T. gondii were separated from the analyzed samples in birds. The results of our study revealed that atypical genotypes were predominant (58.8%, 750 out of 1275). Types II, III, and I had less frequency with prevalence rates of 23.4%, 13.8%, and 2%, respectively. No isolates of Type I were reported from Africa. Summarizing ToxoDB genotypes circulating in birds around the world manifested that ToxoDB #2 was the most common (101/875), followed by ToxoDB #1 (80/875), and #3 (63/875). Totally, the results of our review represented the high genetic diversity of T. gondii with circulating non-clonal strains in birds from South and North America, while clonal parasites with low genetic diversity were predominant in Europe, Asia, and Africa.
Collapse
|
18
|
A Case of Bovine Eosinophilic Myositis (BEM) Associated with Co-Infection by Sarcocystis hominis and Toxoplasma gondii. Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:ani13020311. [PMID: 36670850 PMCID: PMC9854639 DOI: 10.3390/ani13020311] [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: 12/24/2022] [Revised: 01/11/2023] [Accepted: 01/13/2023] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Bovine eosinophilic myositis (BEM) is a specific inflammatory myopathy, often associated with Sarcocystis spp., with multifocal gray-green lesions leading to carcass condemnation with considerable economic losses. Here is described a peculiar case of BEM that occurred in an adult (16 month) cattle, born in France, bred, and slaughtered in Italy at the end of 2021. On inspection, muscles showed the typical multifocal gray-green lesions that were sampled for, cytological, histological, and molecular investigations, while meat juice was subjected to IFAT for Toxoplasma IgG. Genomic DNA was extracted from lesions, portions of healthy muscle and from meat juice pellet and analyzed by PCR targeting 18S rDNA, COI mtDNA and B1 genes, and sequenced. The cytology showed inflammatory cells mostly referable to eosinophils; at histology, protozoan cysts and severe granulomatous myositis were observed. A BEM lesion and meat juice pellet subjected to PCR showed, concurrently, sequences referable both to S. hominis and T. gondii. Meat juice IFAT resulted negative for T. gondii IgG. Our findings highlight the first detection of T. gondii DNA in association with S. hominis in a BEM case, suggesting a multiple parasite infection associated with this pathology, although the actual role of T. gondii infection in the pathophysiology of the diseases should be clarified.
Collapse
|
19
|
Condoleo R, Rombolà P, Palumbo R, Santori D, Serra S, Tonon S, Bosco A, Sezzi E. Toxoplasma gondii in sheep: Serological occurrence at slaughterhouse level in Italy and environmental risk factors. Front Vet Sci 2023; 10:1057277. [PMID: 37035804 PMCID: PMC10076628 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2023.1057277] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2022] [Accepted: 02/17/2023] [Indexed: 04/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Toxoplasmosis is a parasitic disease affecting a wide range of species, including humans, and can be responsible for important clinical manifestations such as abortion and neurological signs. Sheep show a remarkable susceptibility to its causative agent, Toxoplasma gondii, and zoonotic transmission may occur in case of consumption of undercooked meat obtained from infected animals. Toxoplasma gondii seroprevalence in sheep can significantly vary on a geographical basis, as shown by numerous surveys conducted worldwide. To investigate environmental and climate conditions that may affect the likelihood of ovine infection, 405 serum samples from selected sheep raised in 91 farms were collected from two abattoirs, with each abattoir receiving animals from two regions (1/Tuscany-Latium and 2/Campania-Basilicata). The seroprevalence of infection in all examined animals was 53.8%. Young animals (n = 165) had a lower likelihood of being T. gondii positive compared to the adults (OR = 0.21), and the seropositive rate of animals slaughtered in abattoir 2 was significantly higher than that of animals slaughtered in abattoir 1 (60.5 vs. 43.2%, p < 0.01). The significant bioclimatic variables (p < 0.05) associated with the presence of T. gondii antibodies were related to areas with a lower range of temperature and higher precipitation. In conclusion, this study expands on the interpretation of serological data, with the inclusion of environmental and climatic variables, as possible risk factors in the spread of toxoplasmosis in the study area. These findings provide novel insights to support public health measures, such as risk-based control plan, and contribute to a "One Health" approach, taking into account the environmental and climatic perspectives.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Roberto Condoleo
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Lazio e Toscana, Rome, Italy
- *Correspondence: Roberto Condoleo
| | - Pasquale Rombolà
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Lazio e Toscana, Rome, Italy
| | - Roberta Palumbo
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Lazio e Toscana, Rome, Italy
| | - Davide Santori
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Lazio e Toscana, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Sara Tonon
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Lazio e Toscana, Rome, Italy
| | - Antonio Bosco
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Federico II University, Naples, Italy
| | - Erminia Sezzi
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Lazio e Toscana, Rome, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Andreopoulou M, Schares G, Koethe M, Chaligiannis I, Maksimov P, Joeres M, Cardron G, Goroll T, Sotiraki S, Daugschies A, Bangoura B. Prevalence and molecular characterization of Toxoplasma gondii in different types of poultry in Greece, associated risk factors and co-existence with Eimeria spp. Parasitol Res 2023; 122:97-111. [PMID: 36308531 PMCID: PMC9816277 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-022-07701-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2022] [Accepted: 10/18/2022] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii is a protozoan parasite of public health importance, infecting all warm-blooded animals, including chickens. Undercooked chicken meat or relevant products such as sausages could lead to human infections. In free-range, organic and slow-growth farming systems where the susceptibility period for chickens is extended, more knowledge about potential risk factors is essential. This study is the first seroepidemiological survey in different regions and types of chicken farms in Greece, using a major tachyzoite surface antigen-based ELISA (TgSAG1), combined with magnetic-capture PCR (mc-PCR) and bioassay for the isolation of strains from the chickens' tissues. Potential risk factors for T. gondii infection in these hosts were also investigated. Additionally, the co-existence of T. gondii and Eimeria spp. infections was assessed to elucidate epidemiological links between these two protozoan infections. Overall T. gondii seroprevalence was 9.5%. Of the backyard chickens sampled, 41.2% were seropositive and 70% of the organic and free-range layer farms had at least one T. gondii seropositive hen. No serologically positive broilers were found, although mc-PCR revealed a positive sample, highlighting the importance of accurate early-infection direct detection of T. gondii infections to ensure public health. T. gondii isolates obtained by mouse bioassay were genotyped. All belonged to type II (ToxoDB#3) as confirmed also by microsatellite typing. Production system, type of nutrition, and feeding system automation were identified as the most significant risk factors, while no association was found between the presence of cats and T. gondii seropositivity as calculated on both a farm level and per individual bird sampled.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marianna Andreopoulou
- Institute of Parasitology, Centre for Infectious Diseases, Leipzig University, Leipzig, Germany ,Veterinary Research Institute, Hellenic Agricultural Organization ELGO-DIMITRA, 57001 Thessaloniki, Thermi Greece
| | - Gereon Schares
- Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Federal Research Institute for Animal Health, National Reference Laboratory for Toxoplasmosis, Greifswald-Insel Riems, Germany
| | - Martin Koethe
- Institute of Food Hygiene, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Leipzig University, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Ilias Chaligiannis
- Clinic of Farm Animals, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, School of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54627 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Pavlo Maksimov
- Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Federal Research Institute for Animal Health, National Reference Laboratory for Toxoplasmosis, Greifswald-Insel Riems, Germany
| | - Maike Joeres
- Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Federal Research Institute for Animal Health, National Reference Laboratory for Toxoplasmosis, Greifswald-Insel Riems, Germany
| | - Garance Cardron
- Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Federal Research Institute for Animal Health, National Reference Laboratory for Toxoplasmosis, Greifswald-Insel Riems, Germany
| | - Tina Goroll
- Institute of Parasitology, Centre for Infectious Diseases, Leipzig University, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Smaro Sotiraki
- Veterinary Research Institute, Hellenic Agricultural Organization ELGO-DIMITRA, 57001 Thessaloniki, Thermi Greece
| | - Arwid Daugschies
- Institute of Parasitology, Centre for Infectious Diseases, Leipzig University, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Berit Bangoura
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Wyoming, Laramie, WY USA
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Kauter J, Damek F, Schares G, Blaga R, Schott F, Deplazes P, Sidler X, Basso W. Detection of Toxoplasma gondii-specific antibodies in pigs using an oral fluid-based commercial ELISA: Advantages and limitations. Int J Parasitol 2022:S0020-7519(22)00183-7. [PMID: 36587725 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpara.2022.11.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2022] [Revised: 10/27/2022] [Accepted: 11/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii is a major food-borne parasite and undercooked meat of infected pigs represents an important source of infection for humans. Since infections in pigs are mostly subclinical, adequate diagnostic tests for use at the farm level are pursued. Oral fluid (OF) was shown to be a promising matrix for direct and indirect detection of infections with various pathogens in pigs. The objective of this study was to assess whether T. gondii infections in pigs could be diagnosed using an indirect ELISA kit adapted for OF samples (OF-ELISA). Routine serology and OF-immunoblot (IB) were used as standards for the comparison. For this, serial OF samples from sows (n = 8) and fatteners (n = 3) experimentally inoculated with T. gondii oocysts, individual field samples from potentially exposed sows (n = 9) and pooled OF samples from potentially exposed group-housed fatteners (n = 195 pig groups, including 2,248 animals) were analysed for antibodies against T. gondii by ELISA. For individual animals, OF-ELISA exhibited a relative diagnostic specificity of 97.3% and a relative diagnostic sensitivity of 78.8%. In experimentally infected animals, positive OF-ELISA results were observed from 1.5 weeks post inoculation (pi) until the end of the experimental setup (8 to 30 weeks pi); however, values below the estimated cut-off were occasionally observed in some animals despite constant seropositivity. In potentially exposed individual animals, OF- and serum-ELISA results showed 100% agreement. In group-housed fatteners, antibodies against T. gondii could be reliably detected by OF-ELISA in groups in which at least 25% of the animals were seropositive. This OF-ELISA, based on a commercially available serum-ELISA, may represent an interesting non-invasive screening tool for detecting pig groups with a high exposure to T. gondii at the farm level. The OF-ELISA may need further adjustments to consistently detect individual infected pigs, probably due to variations in OF antibody concentration over time.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Johanna Kauter
- Institute of Parasitology, Vetsuisse-Faculty, University of Bern, Länggassstrasse 122, CH-3012 Bern, Switzerland
| | - Filip Damek
- Anses, INRAE, Ecole Nationale Vétérinaire d'Alfort, Laboratoire de Santé Animale, BIPAR, Maisons-Alfort F-94700, France
| | - Gereon Schares
- Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Federal Research Institute for Animal Health, Institute of Epidemiology, Südufer 10, 17493 Greifswald‑Insel Riems, Germany
| | - Radu Blaga
- Anses, INRAE, Ecole Nationale Vétérinaire d'Alfort, Laboratoire de Santé Animale, BIPAR, Maisons-Alfort F-94700, France
| | - Franziska Schott
- Department of Farm Animals, Division of Swine Medicine, Vetsuisse-Faculty, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstrasse 260, CH-8057 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Peter Deplazes
- Institute of Parasitology, Vetsuisse-Faculty, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstrasse 266a, CH-8057 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Xaver Sidler
- Department of Farm Animals, Division of Swine Medicine, Vetsuisse-Faculty, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstrasse 260, CH-8057 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Walter Basso
- Institute of Parasitology, Vetsuisse-Faculty, University of Bern, Länggassstrasse 122, CH-3012 Bern, Switzerland.
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Cárdenas Sierra DM, Domínguez Julio GC, Blanco Oliveros MX, Soto JA, Tórres Morales E. Seroprevalencia y factores de riesgo asociados a toxoplasmosis gestacional en el Nororiente Colombiano. REVISTA CUIDARTE 2022. [DOI: 10.15649/cuidarte.2287] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Highlights:
La toxoplasmosis gestacional podría constituir una grave problemática en ascenso en la población atendida en zona fronteriza nororiental de Colombia.
La incrementada reactividad IgM específica a T.gondii en mujeres gestantes representa una alarma para la generación de estrategias de impacto en la prevención de esta problemática, como población priorizada.
La seronegatividad frente a T.gondii, aún predominante en población gestante evaluada en región nororiental de Colombia, constituye un factor de riesgo relevante de toxoplasmosis gestacional, reflejado en alta susceptibilidad.
La considerable exposición a factores de riesgo de toxoplasmosis en el embarazo implica una clara oportunidad de mejora de la calidad del control prenatal, mediante atención integral.
Introducción:La toxoplasmosis es una zoonosis prevalente en un tercio de la población mundial, que afecta negativamente la salud materno-fetal causando daños de grado variable al feto. Objetivo: Se propuso evaluar el estado serológico IgG e IgM anti-Toxoplasma gondii y factores de riesgo relacionados, en mujeres gestantes de primer trimestre en Cúcuta, Colombia, en el año 2018. Materiales y métodos: Estudio transversal y correlacional en 111 mujeres participando voluntariamente, a quienes se testeó para IgM e IgG específicas por inmunoensayo LIA. Resultados: Se halló 19,8% y 35,1% de seropositividad total para IgM e IgG, respectivamente, 11,7% lo fue únicamente para IgM y 53,2% corresponde a la frecuencia de seronegatividad global para T.gondii; Se identificaron factores de riesgo (IC=95%) como consumo de carne mal cocida (54,1% de los casos, OR=1,8, p=0,120), de agua del grifo (48,6%, OR=1,4, p=0,421), de leche cruda de cabra o de vaca (39,6%, OR=0,78, p=0,553), además de convivencia con gatos (23,4%), éste último asociado significativamente a seropositividad al parásito (OR=2,8, p=0,025). Discusión y Conclusiones: Nuestros hallazgos revelan un posible riesgo de primo-infección en más de la mitad de la población gestante dada su seronegatividad frente al parásito, pero también una frecuencia considerable de casos con sospecha de infección muy reciente, lo que además de asociarse a un factor de riesgo previamente reconocido, deja entrever otros aspectos de riesgo en torno a la alimentación que deben impactarse mediante estrategias de prevención durante el control prenatal, sugiriendo la necesidad de fortalecer la vigilancia en torno al evento.
Como citar este artículo: Cárdenas Sierra Denny Miley, Domínguez Julio Camila, Blanco Oliveros María Ximena, Soto Javier Andrés, Tórres Morales Elizabeth. Seroprevalencia y factores de riesgo asociados a toxoplasmosis gestacional en el Nororiente Colombiano. Revista Cuidarte. 2023;14(1):e2287. http://dx.doi.org/10.15649/cuidarte.2287
Collapse
|
23
|
Prevalence of Neospora caninum, Toxoplasma gondii and Brucella abortus in water buffalo (Bubalus bubalis): Climatic and environmental risk factors in eastern and southeast Mexico. Microb Pathog 2022; 173:105871. [DOI: 10.1016/j.micpath.2022.105871] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2022] [Revised: 09/07/2022] [Accepted: 11/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
|
24
|
Largo-de la Torre A, Diezma-Díaz C, Calero-Bernal R, Atencia-Cibreiro G, Sánchez-Sánchez R, Ferre I, Regidor-Cerrillo J, Ortega-Mora LM. Archetypal type II and III Toxoplasma gondii oocysts induce different immune responses and clinical outcomes in experimentally infected piglets. Front Immunol 2022; 13:1021556. [PMID: 36341449 PMCID: PMC9631316 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.1021556] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2022] [Accepted: 09/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Livestock animals, such as swine, are an important source of Toxoplasma gondii in the human population. Currently, there is limited knowledge regarding the potential influence that the T. gondii genotype might exert on establishing infection in swine. Herein, we investigated the role of 2 T. gondii isolates, type II and III, representative of the genotypes circulating in Europe, in the immune responses and infection dynamics in piglets. Recently obtained oocysts (103) from the T. gondii field isolates TgShSp1 (type II, ToxoDB genotype #3) and TgShSp24 (type III, #2) were used for oral infection. Thirteen 50-day-old female piglets of the Landrace-Large White crossbreed were randomly allocated into three different groups: Group 1 (G1, n=5), inoculated with TgShSp1; Group 2 (G2, n=5), inoculated with TgShSp24; and Group 3 (G3, n=3), a non-infected control group. Clinical signs were monitored daily until 42 days post-infection (dpi) when piglets were euthanized. Blood samples were collected weekly to test the cellular immune response in parasite-stimulated peripheral blood and specific IgG, IgG1 and IgG2, responses in sera. Parasite distribution and burden were evaluated in target tissues using a mouse bioassay and quantitative RT−PCR (qPCR). Apathy and a moderate decrease in feed consumption were observed in G1 and G2 piglets between 5 and 8 dpi, coinciding with fever (>40°C). G2 piglets had higher temperatures for a longer duration. Using mouse bioassay and qPCR, the detection frequency was higher in G2 vs. G1, and the highest parasite burdens in target tissues were also found in G2. Seroconversion was detected at 14 dpi in both infected groups, but higher antibody levels were observed in G2 piglets. Cytokine analyses revealed the production of IL-8, IL-1β and IFN-ɤ from 7 dpi in both infected groups. Moreover, IL-12 was produced from 7 dpi in G1 and from 14 dpi in G2. Levels of IL-8 were higher in G2, but IL-1β, IL-12 and IFN-ɤ were higher in G1 at 14 dpi. This cytokine profile reveals a predominant proinflammatory response that could be involved in limiting T. gondii infection in piglets, although it is more efficient against TgShSp1 type II-driven infection.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Carlos Diezma-Díaz
- SALUVET-Innova, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, Complutense University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Rafael Calero-Bernal
- SALUVET, Animal Health Department, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, Complutense University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | | | - Roberto Sánchez-Sánchez
- SALUVET, Animal Health Department, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, Complutense University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Ignacio Ferre
- SALUVET-Innova, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, Complutense University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
- SALUVET, Animal Health Department, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, Complutense University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Javier Regidor-Cerrillo
- SALUVET-Innova, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, Complutense University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
- *Correspondence: Javier Regidor-Cerrillo, ; Luis Miguel Ortega-Mora,
| | - Luis Miguel Ortega-Mora
- SALUVET-Innova, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, Complutense University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
- SALUVET, Animal Health Department, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, Complutense University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
- *Correspondence: Javier Regidor-Cerrillo, ; Luis Miguel Ortega-Mora,
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Espindola BD, Fernandes FD, Roman IJ, Samoel GVA, Barcelos RAD, Döhler AR, Botton SDÁ, Vogel FSF, Sangioni LA. Detection of Sarcocystis spp. and Toxoplasma gondii in swine and detection of DNA of these protozoa in tissues and sausages. REVISTA BRASILEIRA DE PARASITOLOGIA VETERINARIA = BRAZILIAN JOURNAL OF VETERINARY PARASITOLOGY : ORGAO OFICIAL DO COLEGIO BRASILEIRO DE PARASITOLOGIA VETERINARIA 2022; 31:e009322. [PMID: 36074435 DOI: 10.1590/s1984-29612022049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2022] [Accepted: 08/08/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
The seroprevalence of Sarcocystis spp. and Toxoplasma gondii was researched in swine raised in Santa Maria, RS, Brazil. Serum samples from 84 pigs from 31 farms were tested using indirect immunofluorescence assay (IFA) for both agents. Additionally, 53 samples of pork sausages and tissues destined for human consumption, including: salami, sausage, black pudding, heart, tongue, brain, and rib muscle, were submitted to PCR to detect DNA for each agent. The frequency of anti-Sarcocystis spp. antibodies was 36.9% (31/84), with titers ranging from 32 to 1024, and 25% (21/84) for anti-T. gondii antibodies, with titers ranging from 64 to 2048. Sarcocystis spp. and T. gondii DNA were detected in 67.9% (36/53) and 13.2% (7/53) of samples, respectively. The presence of antibodies and the detection of DNA from Sarcocystis spp., and T. gondii suggests that the pigs were infected and may serve as an important reservoir for both parasites. The infection by these protozoa in the swine population is relevant to public health due to their zoonotic potential.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bruna Dias Espindola
- Laboratório de Doenças Parasitárias - LADOPAR, Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva - DMVP, Centro de Ciências Rurais - CCR, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria - UFSM, Santa Maria, RS, Brasil
| | - Fagner D'ambroso Fernandes
- Laboratório de Doenças Parasitárias - LADOPAR, Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva - DMVP, Centro de Ciências Rurais - CCR, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria - UFSM, Santa Maria, RS, Brasil
| | - Isac Junior Roman
- Laboratório de Doenças Parasitárias - LADOPAR, Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva - DMVP, Centro de Ciências Rurais - CCR, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria - UFSM, Santa Maria, RS, Brasil
| | - Gisele Vaz Aguirre Samoel
- Laboratório de Doenças Parasitárias - LADOPAR, Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva - DMVP, Centro de Ciências Rurais - CCR, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria - UFSM, Santa Maria, RS, Brasil
| | - Roberto Antônio Delgado Barcelos
- Laboratório de Doenças Parasitárias - LADOPAR, Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva - DMVP, Centro de Ciências Rurais - CCR, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria - UFSM, Santa Maria, RS, Brasil
| | - Alisson Rodrigues Döhler
- Laboratório de Doenças Parasitárias - LADOPAR, Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva - DMVP, Centro de Ciências Rurais - CCR, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria - UFSM, Santa Maria, RS, Brasil
| | - Sônia de Ávila Botton
- Laboratório de Doenças Parasitárias - LADOPAR, Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva - DMVP, Centro de Ciências Rurais - CCR, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria - UFSM, Santa Maria, RS, Brasil
| | - Fernanda Silveira Flores Vogel
- Laboratório de Doenças Parasitárias - LADOPAR, Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva - DMVP, Centro de Ciências Rurais - CCR, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria - UFSM, Santa Maria, RS, Brasil
| | - Luis Antonio Sangioni
- Laboratório de Doenças Parasitárias - LADOPAR, Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva - DMVP, Centro de Ciências Rurais - CCR, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria - UFSM, Santa Maria, RS, Brasil
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Toxoplasma gondii in Foods: Prevalence, Control, and Safety. Foods 2022; 11:foods11162542. [PMID: 36010541 PMCID: PMC9407268 DOI: 10.3390/foods11162542] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2022] [Revised: 08/17/2022] [Accepted: 08/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii is an obligate intracellular parasite that causes toxoplasmosis, with approximately one third of the population around the world seropositive. The consumption of contaminated food is the main source of infection. These include meat products with T. gondii tissue cysts, and dairy products with tachyzoites. Recently, contamination has been detected in fresh products with oocysts and marine products. Despite the great health problems that are caused by T. gondii, currently there are no standardized methods for its detection in the food industry. In this review, we analyze the current detection methods, the prevalence of T. gondii in different food products, and the control measures. The main detection methods are bioassays, cell culture, molecular and microscopic techniques, and serological methods, but some of these do not have applicability in the food industry. As a result, emerging techniques are being developed that are aimed at the detection of multiple parasites simultaneously that would make their application more efficient in the industry. Since the prevalence of this parasite is high in many products (meat and milk, marine products, and vegetables), it is necessary to standardize detection methods, as well as implement control measures.
Collapse
|
27
|
de Barros RAM, Torrecilhas AC, Marciano MAM, Mazuz ML, Pereira-Chioccola VL, Fux B. Toxoplasmosis in Human and Animals Around the World. Diagnosis and Perspectives in the One Health Approach. Acta Trop 2022; 231:106432. [PMID: 35390311 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2022.106432] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2022] [Revised: 03/25/2022] [Accepted: 03/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Toxoplasmosis is a unique health disease that significantly affects the health of humans, domestic animals, wildlife and is present in ecosystems, including water, soil and food. Toxoplasma gondii is one of the best-adapted parasites in the word. This parasite is able to persist for long periods in its hosts, in different geographic regions of the word. This review summarizes the current literature of these themes, focusing on: (1) toxoplasmosis, a zoonotic infection; (2) One health approach and toxoplasmosis; (3) human toxoplasmosis; (4) animal toxoplasmosis; (5) toxoplasmosis diagnosis, as immunological, parasitological and molecular diagnosis; (6) T. gondii outbreaks caused by infected meat, milk and dairy products, as well as, vegetables and water consume; (7) studies in experimental models; (8) genetic characterization of T. gondii strains; (9) extracellular vesicles and miRNA; and (10) future perspectives on T. gondii and toxoplasmosis. The vast prevalence of toxoplasmosis in both humans and animals and the dispersion and resistence of T. gondii parasites in environment highlight the importance of the one health approach in diagnostic and control of the disease. Here the different aspects of the one health approach are presented and discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rosangela Aparecida Müller de Barros
- Unidade de Medicina Tropical, Departamento de Patologia, Universidade Federal do Espirito Santo, Vitoria, ES, Brazil.; Programa em Doenças Infecciosas, Centro de Doenças Infecciosas, Universidade Federal do Espirito Santo, Vitoria, ES, Brazil..
| | - Ana Claudia Torrecilhas
- Laboratório de Imunologia Celular e Bioquímica de Fungos e Protozoários, Departamento de Ciências Farmacêuticas, Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP), Campus Diadema, Sao Paulo, SP, Brazil..
| | | | - Monica Leszkowicz Mazuz
- Parasitology Division, Kimron Veterinary Institute, Israeli Veterinary Service and Animal Health, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development Beit Dagan, 5025000, Israel..
| | | | - Blima Fux
- Unidade de Medicina Tropical, Departamento de Patologia, Universidade Federal do Espirito Santo, Vitoria, ES, Brazil.; Programa em Doenças Infecciosas, Centro de Doenças Infecciosas, Universidade Federal do Espirito Santo, Vitoria, ES, Brazil..
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Mpundu P, Muma JB, Mukumbuta N, Mukubesa AN, Muleya W, Kapila P, Hang'ombe BM, Munyeme M. Isolation, discrimination, and molecular detection of Listeria species from slaughtered cattle in Namwala District, Zambia. BMC Microbiol 2022; 22:160. [PMID: 35717165 PMCID: PMC9206240 DOI: 10.1186/s12866-022-02570-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2021] [Accepted: 04/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The food industry is increasingly becoming more scrutinized, given the frequency and intensity with which zoonotic diseases are being reported. Pathogen tracking has become more applicable with regards food safety. It is in this regard that the present study was formulated to track Listeria species. in freshly slaughtered cattle carcasses by utilizing standard and molecular biological techniques. METHODS A cross-sectional study design was conducted from March to December 2020 with 200 samples being equally collected in the rainy and dry seasons. A total of 180 and 20 swabs were aseptically collected from carcasses and the environment respectively. Samples were first subjected to pre-enrichment in half-strength Fraser broth followed by enrichment in full strength Fraser broth and subsequent plating on Listeria agar. Listeria growth characteristics were identified up to species level based on their morphological and biochemical characteristics. Further, molecular detection and phylogenetic analysis was conducted. Quantitative proportionate survey data were analyzed using Stata Version 15 software to estimate crude prevalence taking into account complex design at abattoir level. Factors associated with contamination were characterized using logistic regression. Sequences were analyzed using, Genetyyx version 12 and phylogenetic Mega. RESULTS Of the 200 samples, 19 were positive for Listeria species identified as L.innocua 14/19 (73.7%) and L. monocytogenes 5/19 (26.3%). All isolates were from freshly slaughtered carcasses, and none from environment. Siginificant differences in contamination levels were observed based on season: rainy season yielded 14 (73.6%) whilst the dry season 5 (26.3%). The L. monocytogenes strains showed a high degree of homogeneity on phylogenetic analysis and clustered based on abattoir. Seasonality was identified as a major determinant influencing contamination based on the final logistic regression model. CONCLUSION This study found evidence of L. monocytogenes contamination on traditionally raised beef carcasses across various abattoirs surveyed. The failure to find Listeria contamination on the abattoir environment may to a greater extent intimate cattle carccases as primary sources of contamination. However, a more comprerehnsive study incorporating different geographical regions is needed to conclusively ascertain these present findings.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Prudence Mpundu
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, Levy Mwanawasa Medical University, Lusaka, 33991, Zambia. .,Department of Disease Control, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Zambia, Lusaka, 10101, Zambia.
| | - John Bwalya Muma
- Department of Disease Control, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Zambia, Lusaka, 10101, Zambia
| | - Nawa Mukumbuta
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, Levy Mwanawasa Medical University, Lusaka, 33991, Zambia.,Department of Epidemiology and Biostatics, Levy Mwanawasa Medical University, Lusaka, 33991, Zambia
| | - Andrew Nalishuwa Mukubesa
- Department of Disease Control, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Zambia, Lusaka, 10101, Zambia
| | - Walter Muleya
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Zambia, Lusaka, 10101, Zambia
| | - Penjaninge Kapila
- Department of Disease Control, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Zambia, Lusaka, 10101, Zambia
| | - Bernard Mudenda Hang'ombe
- Department of Para-Clinical Studies, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Zambia, Lusaka, 10101, Zambia
| | - Musso Munyeme
- Department of Disease Control, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Zambia, Lusaka, 10101, Zambia
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Eppink DM, Bouwknegt M, van der Giessen JWB, Swanenburg M, Oorburg D, Urlings BAP, van Wagenberg CPA, van Asseldonk MAPM, Wisselink HJ. Potential risk factors for the presence of anti-Toxoplasma gondii antibodies in finishing pigs on conventional farms in the Netherlands. Porcine Health Manag 2022; 8:27. [PMID: 35701849 PMCID: PMC9195196 DOI: 10.1186/s40813-022-00272-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2022] [Accepted: 06/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The parasite Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii) causes a substantial human disease burden worldwide. Ingesting improperly cooked pork containing T. gondii is considered one of the major sources of human infection in Europe and North America. Consequently, control of T. gondii infections in pigs is warranted. The European Food Safety Authority advised to perform serological monitoring of pigs and to conduct farm audits for the presence of risk factors. Serological monitoring was implemented in several Dutch slaughterhouses, one to six blood samples (a total of 5134 samples) were taken from each delivery of finishing pigs and samples were tested for the presence of anti-T. gondii antibodies. Using these test results, a cross-sectional study was initiated to assess the association between the within-herd T. gondii seroprevalence and the presence of risk factors for T. gondii infections at 69 conventional finishing pig farms in the Netherlands. RESULTS A multivariable model showed significant (P ≤ 0.05) association with twelve potential risk factors: type of farm, presence of dogs, presence of ruminants, use of boots, use of shower and farm clothing, mode of rodent control, bedding accessibility for rodents, presence of cats, type of drinking water, heating of the feed, use of goat whey and shielding of birds. CONCLUSIONS Serological monitoring of finishing pigs for T. gondii in slaughterhouses can be used to identify the presence of T. gondii risk factors on Dutch conventional finishing pig farms and seems a valuable tool to guide and monitor the control of T. gondii in pork production.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dorien M Eppink
- Vion Food Group, Boxtel, The Netherlands
- Van Hall Larenstein, Velp, The Netherlands
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
30
|
Betić N, Karabasil N, Djurković-Djaković O, Ćirković V, Bobić B, Branković Lazić I, Djordjević V, Klun I. Seroprevalence, Direct Detection and Risk Factors for Toxoplasma gondii Infection in Pigs in Serbia, and Influence of Biosecurity Measures. Microorganisms 2022; 10:microorganisms10051069. [PMID: 35630511 PMCID: PMC9146795 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms10051069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2022] [Revised: 05/12/2022] [Accepted: 05/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Consumption of Toxoplasma gondii contaminated pork is a major risk factor for human infection. We thus conducted a cross-sectional survey on the seroprevalence of T. gondii infection in a representative sample of slaughter pigs from throughout Serbia and examined the influence of farm biosecurity-related risk factors on infection. In addition, direct detection of the parasite (by mouse bioassay) or its DNA was performed in the hearts of a subset of seropositive sows. The overall seroprevalence in the sample of 825 pigs as determined by the modified agglutination test (MAT) was 16.5%. Older age and inadequate rodent control were independent infection risk factors for pigs. In a subset of 581 pigs with complete biosecurity-related data, in addition to older age, smallholders’ finishing type farms (as opposed to farrow-to-finish), multispecies farming, and origin from Western and Central and South-Eastern Serbia (vs. the Northern region), all increased the risk of infection, while the absence of disinfection boot-dips in front of each barn and Belgrade district origin (vs. the Northern region) were associated with a 62% and 75% lower risk of infection, respectively. Evidence of viable parasites was obtained in 13 (41.9%) of the 31 bioassayed sow hearts, of which by isolation of brain cysts in seven, by detection of T. gondii DNA in an additional four, and by serology in another two. Recovery of brain cysts mostly (5/7) from sows with a MAT titre of ≥1:100 indicates the risk for consumers. These results highlight the public health risk from pork consumption and point to mandatory use of professional rodent control services, abstaining from multispecies farming, keeping disinfection boot-dips clean and freshly refilled, as well as strict implementation of zoo-hygienic measures on smallholders’ farms as specific farm biosecurity measures needed for its reduction.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nikola Betić
- Institute of Meat Hygiene and Technology, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia; (N.B.); (I.B.L.); (V.D.)
| | - Nedjeljko Karabasil
- Department of Food Hygiene and Technology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Belgrade, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia;
| | - Olgica Djurković-Djaković
- Centre of Excellence for Food- and Vector-Borne Zoonoses, Institute for Medical Research, University of Belgrade, 11129 Belgrade, Serbia; (O.D.-D.); (V.Ć.); (B.B.)
| | - Vladimir Ćirković
- Centre of Excellence for Food- and Vector-Borne Zoonoses, Institute for Medical Research, University of Belgrade, 11129 Belgrade, Serbia; (O.D.-D.); (V.Ć.); (B.B.)
| | - Branko Bobić
- Centre of Excellence for Food- and Vector-Borne Zoonoses, Institute for Medical Research, University of Belgrade, 11129 Belgrade, Serbia; (O.D.-D.); (V.Ć.); (B.B.)
| | - Ivana Branković Lazić
- Institute of Meat Hygiene and Technology, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia; (N.B.); (I.B.L.); (V.D.)
| | - Vesna Djordjević
- Institute of Meat Hygiene and Technology, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia; (N.B.); (I.B.L.); (V.D.)
| | - Ivana Klun
- Centre of Excellence for Food- and Vector-Borne Zoonoses, Institute for Medical Research, University of Belgrade, 11129 Belgrade, Serbia; (O.D.-D.); (V.Ć.); (B.B.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +381-11-2685-788
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Detección molecular de Toxoplasma gondii en carnes para consumo humano en Ibagué, Colombia. BIOMÉDICA 2022; 42:136-146. [PMID: 35471176 PMCID: PMC9075112 DOI: 10.7705/biomedica.6251] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Introducción. Toxoplasma gondii es un parásito con gran potencial zoonótico que puede infectar un amplio rango de huéspedes de sangre caliente, incluidos los animales del sector pecuario, lo que causa pérdidas a la industria. En el humano, es patógeno en personas inmunosuprimidas y afecta el desarrollo del feto en infecciones congénitas. Además, se asocia con diversos trastornos del comportamiento en personas sanas. El humano puede adquirir T. gondii al consumir carnes contaminadas mal cocidas.Objetivo. Determinar la positividad de T. gondii en carnes de consumo humano (res, pollo y cerdo) en Ibagué, Colombia.Materiales y métodos. Se utilizó la PCR convencional anidada y la secuencia del gen B1 de T. gondii como blanco de amplificación. Se tomaron 186 muestras de carne comercializada en la zona urbana de Ibagué (62 de res, 62 de pollo y 62 de cerdo) y se obtuvo el porcentaje de positividad en cada tipo de carne evaluada.Resultados. Se encontró un porcentaje de positividad de 18,8 % en las muestras, siendo la carne de cerdo la del mayor porcentaje (22,5 %; 14/62), seguida por las muestras de carne de res (19,3 %; 12/62) y de pollo (14,5 %; 9/62). Los mejores productos amplificados fueron secuenciados en Macrogen, y alineados con las secuencias del gen B1 depositadas en el GenBank, con lo que se confirmó su identidad.Conclusiones. Este es el primer estudio sobre prevalencia de T. gondii en carnes para consumo humano en Ibagué y el departamento del Tolima. Se demostró que los tres tipos de carne representan un riesgo para la infección en humanos a nivel local.
Collapse
|
32
|
Puchalska M, Wiśniewski J, Klich D, Gołąb E, Jańczak D, Sokołowska J, Urbańska K, Anusz K. A serological survey of Toxoplasma gondii in polish pigs from organic farms, other housing systems and in pigs of different age groups. Acta Vet Scand 2022; 64:3. [PMID: 35130949 PMCID: PMC8822955 DOI: 10.1186/s13028-022-00623-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2021] [Accepted: 01/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The consumption of raw or undercooked meat, especially pork, and offal containing infective tissue cysts is suspected to be a significant route of infection with Toxoplasma gondii. Although the use of “animal-friendly pig production systems” ensuring direct contact with the natural environment offers ethical benefits, it limits the ability to ensure animal health; it may also increase the probability of infections by pathogens such as T. gondii, and thus their entry into the food chain. This study determines the seroprevalence of T. gondii in pigs from different housing systems and farms with different hygiene standards in Poland, as well as among pigs of different age groups from farms with high hygiene standards. In total 760 pig serum samples were examined for the presence of specific antibodies using the PrioCHECK® Toxoplasma Ab porcine commercial ELISA test (Prionics, Switzerland). Results Test results with PP ≥ 20% were regarded as positive, as indicated by the manufacturer. Antibodies to T. gondii were found in 193 of 760 (25.4%) tested sera. Regarding different housing systems, antibodies were found in 117 pigs: of these, 52.6% (61/116) were from organic farms, 40.9% (47/115) from farms with low hygiene standards, 5.4% (9/167) from farms with high hygiene standards and 0% (0/40) from a farm with a high level of biosecurity. Regarding age groups, antibodies were found in 76 animals on farms with high hygiene standards: 11.1% (7/63) were pigs younger than 3 months, 0% (0/60) aged 3–4 months, 12.3% (7/57) aged 5–6 months (final fattening stage) and 43.7% (62/142) were sows aged 9 months and older. Conclusions Antibodies to T. gondii were most often found in pigs from organic and low-hygiene farms, as well as in pigs aged 9 months and older. Meat derived from seropositive animals can pose a potential source of infection for humans. As maternal antibodies to T. gondii can be present in the blood of piglets aged up to 3–4 months, serological examination is unjustified in piglets up to this age.
Collapse
|
33
|
Prevalence of Toxoplasma gondii in retail fresh meat products from free-range chickens in Spain. J Vet Res 2021; 65:457-461. [PMID: 35111999 PMCID: PMC8775739 DOI: 10.2478/jvetres-2021-0052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2021] [Accepted: 09/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Toxoplasma gondii is one of the most prevalent zoonotic protozoan parasites worldwide and affects the vast majority of warm-blooded animal species, including humans. Postnatal infection in humans occurs through the ingestion of sporulated T. gondii oocysts or via the oral intake of parasite tissue cysts during the consumption of raw or undercooked meat. In this regard, given their high exposure to oocysts, chickens (Gallus domesticus) raised on the ground constitute a potential source of T. gondii. Material and Methods For the first time in Spain, a survey was undertaken in commercial retail free-range poultry. A total of 50 thighs from different animals were analysed. The samples were homogenised and an acid pepsin digestion procedure was applied prior to molecular analysis. Toxoplasma gondii DNA was isolated from meat by qPCR. Two sets of primers were used for DNA amplification targeting the specific sequence of a 529 bp repeat element and another set of primers was utilised for the surface antigen protein-1 gene. Results DNA extracted from 5 out of 50 tissue samples was positive for both genes by qPCR amplification. Conclusion The 10% prevalence of Toxoplasma infection found in commercial free-range chickens raises public health issues.
Collapse
|
34
|
Shariatzadeh SA, Sarvi S, Hosseini SA, Sharif M, Gholami S, Pagheh AS, Montazeri F, Nayeri T, Nakhaei M, Mikaeili Galeh T, Daryani A. The global seroprevalence of Toxoplasma gondii infection in bovines: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Parasitology 2021; 148:1417-1433. [PMID: 34187606 PMCID: PMC11010063 DOI: 10.1017/s0031182021001116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2021] [Revised: 06/04/2021] [Accepted: 06/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Bovines, especially cattle, are considered as one of the main sources of Toxoplasma gondii infection for humans. A more comprehensive understanding of the occurrence of T. gondii is needed to provide a global perspective on the prevalence of T. gondii in bovines. Here, we present the results of the first systematic review and meta-analysis on the global T. gondii seroprevalence in bovines. Six databases (PubMed, ScienceDirect, Web of Science, Scopus, ProQuest and Google Scholar) were comprehensively searched for relevant studies published between 1 January 1967 and 30 May 2019. Among 7691 publications searched, 178 studies (from 50 countries) with 193 datasets were included in the meta-analysis. The global pooled and weighted seroprevalence of T. gondii among bovines was 17.91% [95% confidence interval (CI): 15.32–20.6]. Weighted prevalence based on the host was as follows: cattle 16.94% (95% CI: 14.25–19.81), buffalo 22.26% (95% CI: 16.8–29), yak 23% (95% CI: 14–33) and bison 8.1% (95% CI: 3.9–13.7). Continued monitoring on the status of T. gondii seroprevalence in bovines is essential. Study on the prevalence of T. gondii in the products of bovines such as milk, meat, etc., which are considered as the source of transmission of infection to humans, is recommended.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Seyyed Ali Shariatzadeh
- Department of Parasitology, School of Medicine, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
- Toxoplasmosis Research Center, Communicable Diseases Institute, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
- Student Research Committee, Mazandaran University of Medical Science, Sari, Iran
| | - Shahabeddin Sarvi
- Department of Parasitology, School of Medicine, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
- Toxoplasmosis Research Center, Communicable Diseases Institute, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
| | - Seyed Abdollah Hosseini
- Department of Parasitology, School of Medicine, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
- Toxoplasmosis Research Center, Communicable Diseases Institute, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
| | - Mehdi Sharif
- Department of Parasitology, School of Medicine, Sari Branch, Islamic Azad University, Sari, Iran
| | - Shirzad Gholami
- Department of Parasitology, School of Medicine, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
- Toxoplasmosis Research Center, Communicable Diseases Institute, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
| | - Abdol Sattar Pagheh
- Infectious Diseases Research Center, Birjand University of Medical Sciences, Birjand, Iran
| | - Fattaneh Montazeri
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modarres University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Tooran Nayeri
- Department of Parasitology, School of Medicine, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
- Toxoplasmosis Research Center, Communicable Diseases Institute, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
- Student Research Committee, Mazandaran University of Medical Science, Sari, Iran
| | - Maryam Nakhaei
- Department of Parasitology, School of Medicine, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
- Toxoplasmosis Research Center, Communicable Diseases Institute, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
- Student Research Committee, Mazandaran University of Medical Science, Sari, Iran
| | - Tahereh Mikaeili Galeh
- Department of Parasitology, School of Medicine, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
- Toxoplasmosis Research Center, Communicable Diseases Institute, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
- Student Research Committee, Mazandaran University of Medical Science, Sari, Iran
| | - Ahmad Daryani
- Department of Parasitology, School of Medicine, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
- Toxoplasmosis Research Center, Communicable Diseases Institute, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Papatsiros VG, Athanasiou LV, Kostoulas P, Giannakopoulos A, Tzika E, Billinis C. Toxoplasma gondii Infection in Swine: Implications for Public Health. Foodborne Pathog Dis 2021; 18:823-840. [PMID: 34491108 DOI: 10.1089/fpd.2021.0039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Toxoplasmosis, due to Toxoplasma gondii, is a parasitic disease with global importance. Among livestock, chronic T. gondii infection has been reported in higher rates in pigs and small ruminants, but with subclinical infections in case commonly encountered in pigs. Seroprevalence in the global pig population ranges according to the age or species of pigs, geographical distribution, production programs, and systems. Generally, T. gondii infections are noticed in low prevalence rates in conventional pig farms with high hygiene standards. In contrast, higher prevalence is common on free-ranging farms, outdoor or backyard small pig fams, as well as in farmed or hunted wild boars. The T. gondii average worldwide seroprevalence in pigs is reported to be 13% in Europe, 21% in Africa, 25% in North America, 21% in Asia, and 23% in South America. Human toxoplasmosis outbreaks have been correlated with the consumption of raw or undercooked meat, especially from infected pigs or wild boars, as well as of contaminated drinking water. The risk of infection in processed pork products is lower compared with fresh pork, as meat processing can reduce or inactivate T. gondii tissue cysts. Hence, the prevalence of T. gondii in the pig population may be a useful indicator of the risk of human toxoplasmosis associated with the consumption of pork products. The lack of obligatory screening methods at farm level for the detection of antibodies in farmed animals or the viable T. gondii in carcasses at slaughterhouse level increases the risk of contaminated pork or meat products. For this reason, the application of biosecurity and surveillance programs at farm level is very important to prevent a T. gondii infection.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Vasileios G Papatsiros
- Clinic of Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, Karditsa, Greece
| | - Labrini V Athanasiou
- Clinic of Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, Karditsa, Greece
| | - Polychronis Kostoulas
- Laboratory of Epidemiology & Artificial Intelligence, Faculty of Public Health, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, Karditsa, Greece
| | - Alexios Giannakopoulos
- Department of Microbiology & Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, Karditsa, Greece
| | - Eleni Tzika
- Farm Animal Clinic, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, School of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Charalambos Billinis
- Department of Microbiology & Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, Karditsa, Greece
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Muñoz R, Hidalgo-Hermoso E, Fredes F, Alegría-Morán R, Celis S, Ortiz-Tacci C, Kemec I, Mansell M, Verasay J, Ramírez-Toloza G. Serological prevalence and risk factors of Toxoplasma gondii in Zoo Mammals in Chile. Prev Vet Med 2021; 194:105445. [PMID: 34329906 DOI: 10.1016/j.prevetmed.2021.105445] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2021] [Revised: 07/12/2021] [Accepted: 07/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii is a zoonotic cosmopolitan protozoan that causes a high mortality rate among zoo mammals such as New World primates, meerkats, marsupials and Pallas' cat. It has been recently reported in Chile, mainly among wild populations, but also as the cause of death of a kangaroo and a mara. However, there has not been a T. gondii report at a Zoo population level in Chile in the last 35 years. The aim of the study was to estimate the seroprevalence and risk factors associated with T. gondii infection in mammals housed in a zoo located in the Metropolitan Region of Chile between 2011 and 2018. In this study, we analyzed 350 samples, from 324 animals, belonging to 57 species of carnivores, non-human primates, macropodids, ungulates and rodents to detect the presence of anti-T. gondii antibodies. Additionally, 20 animals were longitudinally sampled to evaluate intra-zoo infection. Using a commercial indirect Enzyme-Linked Immuno Sorbent Assay (ELISA) test, we detected T. gondii antibodies in 72 (22.2 %) samples. The overall seroprevalence estimates were 48.4 % in felines, 22.9 % in non-feline carnivores, 21.1 % in ungulates and 15.0 % in non-human primates. There were no positive samples from rodents or marsupials. Of animals sampled longitudinally, only a culpeo fox (Lycalopex cualpaeus) became seropositive along the study indicating exposition inside the facility. T. gondii seroprevalence differed significantly in taxonomic groups (p = 0.003), felines are statistically different from non-feline carnivores (NFC) (p = 0.040), ungulate (p = 0.027) and non-human primates (NHP) (p = 0.009). Annual prevalence comparison was performed showing no statistical difference (p = 0.941). A multivariable logistic regression was performed to ascertain the effect of taxonomic groups, proximity to water sources, diet, sex and type of housing on seropositivity. Only taxonomic group was statistically significant, indicating that NFC (OR = 0.35; 95 % CI = 0.15 - 0.83; p = 0.017), ungulates (OR = 0.30; 95 % CI = 0.13 - 0.69; p = 0.005), and NHP (OR = 0.25; 95 % CI = 0.09 - 0.72; p = 0.010) have lower risk of positivity to T. gondii compared to felines. Additionally, a black-faced spider monkey (Ateles chamek) and a siamang (Symphalangus syndactylus) were seropositive, being the first description of T. gondii infection in these species worldwide. As seen in previous studies, the widespread presence and exposure of T. gondii in zoo mammals was confirmed, and there may be contact with the agent and transmission within the zoo, which was confirmed by one animal became seropositive over the time. This fact could be a health problem for animals susceptible to fatal toxoplasmosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Raúl Muñoz
- Laboratory of Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases, Department of Preventive Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Livestock Sciences, Universidad de Chile, Santa Rosa 11.735, La Pintana, Santiago, Chile
| | - Ezequiel Hidalgo-Hermoso
- Department of Conservation and Research, Buin Zoo, Panamericana Sur Km. 32, Buin, Santiago, Chile.
| | - Fernando Fredes
- Laboratory of Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases, Department of Preventive Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Livestock Sciences, Universidad de Chile, Santa Rosa 11.735, La Pintana, Santiago, Chile
| | - Raúl Alegría-Morán
- Laboratory of Epidemiology of Zoonotic Agents, Department of Preventive Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Livestock Sciences, Universidad de Chile, Santa Rosa 11.735, La Pintana, Santiago, Chile; Facultad de Ciencias Agropecuarias y Ambientales, Universidad Pedro de Valdivia, Santiago, Chile
| | - Sebastian Celis
- Departamento de Veterinaria, Buin Zoo, Panamericana Sur Km. 32, Buin, Santiago, Chile
| | - Carolina Ortiz-Tacci
- Departamento de Veterinaria, Buin Zoo, Panamericana Sur Km. 32, Buin, Santiago, Chile
| | - Ignacio Kemec
- Departamento de Veterinaria, Buin Zoo, Panamericana Sur Km. 32, Buin, Santiago, Chile
| | - Myra Mansell
- Department of Conservation and Research, Buin Zoo, Panamericana Sur Km. 32, Buin, Santiago, Chile; School of Anthropology and Conservation, DICE, University of Kent, Canterbury, UK
| | - Juan Verasay
- Department of Conservation and Research, Buin Zoo, Panamericana Sur Km. 32, Buin, Santiago, Chile
| | - Galia Ramírez-Toloza
- Laboratory of Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases, Department of Preventive Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Livestock Sciences, Universidad de Chile, Santa Rosa 11.735, La Pintana, Santiago, Chile.
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Towards an Integrated Approach for Monitoring Toxoplasmosis in Southern Italy. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:ani11071949. [PMID: 34208943 PMCID: PMC8300179 DOI: 10.3390/ani11071949] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2021] [Revised: 06/15/2021] [Accepted: 06/22/2021] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Toxoplasmosis is a significant public health issue worldwide, caused by the intracellular protozoan Toxoplasma gondii. It has a heteroxenous life cycle in which felines act as definitive reservoirs and a wide range of warm-blooded animals, including humans, act as intermediate hosts. Due to the complex life cycle, monitoring, prevention and control of this parasite are very difficult. A thorough analysis of the epidemiology of T. gondii in humans, animals and food as well as the risk factors associated with the infection are needed to plan adequate control strategies in a given geographical area. Based on this, an integrated approach for monitoring toxoplasmosis was developed and conducted in an endemic area of southern Italy. The main tasks of this approach were based on the following strategies: parasitological and risk factor analysis for T. gondii in livestock farms, serological and molecular monitoring in meat-producing livestock at slaughterhouses, hospital discharge records (HDRs) analysis and outreach activities. The findings of this study confirmed the spread of T. gondii infection in southern Italy with high prevalence values in ruminants and the need of valid control strategies based on comprehensive and transdisciplinary actions according to the One Health approach. Abstract Toxoplasmosis is a widespread worldwide zoonotic infection caused by the intracellular protozoan Toxoplasma gondii. This protozoan infection is considered one of the most important food-borne parasitic zoonoses globally. Beyond its impact on public health, toxoplasmosis has also important veterinary implications, because it causes miscarriage or congenital malformations in livestock with negative economic impacts. An integrated monitoring programme aimed to deepen the epidemiological data on toxoplasmosis and to identify the risk factors that may favour T. gondii infections in animals and humans was conducted in an endemic area of southern Italy. The monitoring activities were based on the following tasks: (i) parasitological analysis and risk factors for T. gondii in livestock (sheep, goat, cattle and water buffalo) farms; (ii) serological and molecular monitoring at slaughterhouse in meat-producing livestock; (iii) analysis of hospital discharge records (HDRs); (iv) outreach activities (information, dissemination and health education) to farmers, vet practitioners and school-age children. The present study confirmed a very high seroprevalence of T. gondii infection in livestock farms (e.g., up to 93.1% in sheep farms) in southern Italy and highlighted the potentially significant public health risk in this area.
Collapse
|
38
|
Shurson GC, Urriola PE, van de Ligt JLG. Can we effectively manage parasites, prions, and pathogens in the global feed industry to achieve One Health? Transbound Emerg Dis 2021; 69:4-30. [PMID: 34171167 DOI: 10.1111/tbed.14205] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2021] [Revised: 06/14/2021] [Accepted: 06/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Prions and certain endoparasites, bacteria, and viruses are internationally recognized as types of disease-causing biological agents that can be transmitted from contaminated feed to animals. Historically, foodborne biological hazards such as prions (transmissible spongiform encephalopathy), endoparasites (Trichinella spiralis, Toxoplasma gondii), and pathogenic bacteria (Salmonella spp., Listeria monocytogenes, Escherichia coli O157, Clostridium spp., and Campylobacter spp.) were major food safety concerns from feeding uncooked or improperly heated animal-derived food waste and by-products. However, implementation of validated thermal processing conditions along with verifiable quality control procedures has been effective in enabling safe use of these feed materials in animal diets. More recently, the occurrence of global Porcine Epidemic Diarrhea Virus and African Swine Fever Virus epidemics, dependence on international feed ingredient supply chains, and the discovery that these viruses can survive in some feed ingredient matrices under environmental conditions of trans-oceanic shipments has created an urgent need to develop and implement rigorous biosecurity protocols that prevent and control animal viruses in feed ingredients. Implementation of verifiable risk-based preventive controls, traceability systems from origin to destination, and effective mitigation procedures is essential to minimize these food security, safety, and sustainability threats. Creating a new biosafety and biosecurity framework will enable convergence of the diverging One Health components involving low environmental impact and functional feed ingredients that are perceived as having elevated biosafety risks when used in animal feeds.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gerald C Shurson
- Department of Animal Science, College of Food Agricultural and Natural Resource Sciences, University of Minnesota, St. Paul, Minnesota, USA
| | - Pedro E Urriola
- Department of Animal Science, College of Food Agricultural and Natural Resource Sciences, University of Minnesota, St. Paul, Minnesota, USA
| | - Jennifer L G van de Ligt
- Department of Veterinary Population Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Minnesota, St. Paul, Minnesota, USA
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Al Hamada A, Habib I, Bruce M, Barnes A, Robertson ID. Seroconversion to Brucella spp. and Toxoplasma gondii in Sheep and Goats in Dohuk Province, Iraq and Its Association with Pregnancy Loss. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:ani11030836. [PMID: 33809524 PMCID: PMC7998558 DOI: 10.3390/ani11030836] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2021] [Revised: 03/12/2021] [Accepted: 03/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Brucellosis and toxoplasmosis cause economic losses in small ruminants, notably through abortions. Both Brucella melitensis and Toxoplasma gondii are important zoonotic agents with infection of the former arising from contact with infected small ruminants or their products and the latter through ingestion of tissue cysts in undercooked/raw meat products of livestock or from oocysts from cats. In Iraq, factors which influence reproductive failure in small ruminants are mostly unknown; however, of the many endemic diseases present, brucellosis and toxoplasmosis are considered important in reducing reproductive output and productivity. This study is part of an integrated research project aiming at understanding the epidemiology of reproductive diseases in small ruminants in northern Iraq. We present in this work a prospective cohort study aiming to determine the incidence risk of seroconversion to Brucella and Toxoplasma and the association of seroconversion with the reproductive outcome in pregnant sheep and goats in Dohuk, northern Iraq. Abstract In this study, sera from 240 small ruminants (192 sheep and 48 goats) belonging to 12 farms in Dohuk Province, northern Iraq, were collected on two occasions to investigate the incidence risk of seroconversion to Brucella spp. and Toxoplasma gondii. All selected animals were confirmed pregnant (approximately 2 months pregnant) by ultrasound examination at the time of the first blood collection. A second ultrasound examination and blood sampling were undertaken two months after the initial scanning/sampling. Antibodies to Brucella were tested using the Rose Bengal Test (RBT) and an indirect enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (iELISA), and the results were interpreted in series. The Latex Agglutination Test (LAT) and an indirect enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (iELISA) were also used in series to confirm the presence of antibodies to T. gondii. The seroprevalence for Brucella and Toxoplasma increased significantly between the two sampling times (p = 0.0003 and 0.03 in first and second sampling, respectively). The incidence risk of seroconversion to Brucella over the two months was 10.6% (95% CI: 6.9–15.3) and 7.3% (95% CI: 4.3–11.6) for Toxoplasma. Animals that seroconverted to Brucella were 2.9 times more likely to lose their pregnancy (95% CI: 1.6–5.5) than animals that remained seronegative; however, seroconversion to Toxoplasma had no significant impact on loss of pregnancy. This study is the first reported investigation on the association of seroconversion to Brucella and Toxoplasma with the reproductive outcome of pregnant sheep and goats in northern Iraq. Brucellosis and toxoplasmosis continue to negatively impact small ruminants’ reproductive performance and compromising food security in Iraq. It is hoped that this study will assist the development of a better-informed economic model to estimate Brucella and Toxoplasma burden in small animals in northern Iraq, and such a model could be used to validate the impact of various potential intervention programs in.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ali Al Hamada
- School of Veterinary Medicine, College of Science, Health, Engineering and Education, Murdoch University, Perth 6150, Australia; (A.A.H.); (M.B.); (I.D.R.)
- Department of Theriogenology, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Mosul, Mosul 41002, Iraq
| | - Ihab Habib
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, College of Food and Agriculture, United Arab Emirates University (UAEU), P.O. Box 15551, Al Ain, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
- Correspondence: (I.H.); (A.B.)
| | - Mieghan Bruce
- School of Veterinary Medicine, College of Science, Health, Engineering and Education, Murdoch University, Perth 6150, Australia; (A.A.H.); (M.B.); (I.D.R.)
- Centre for Animal Production and Health, Food Futures Institute, Murdoch University, Perth 6150, Australia
| | - Anne Barnes
- School of Veterinary Medicine, College of Science, Health, Engineering and Education, Murdoch University, Perth 6150, Australia; (A.A.H.); (M.B.); (I.D.R.)
- Centre for Animal Production and Health, Food Futures Institute, Murdoch University, Perth 6150, Australia
- Correspondence: (I.H.); (A.B.)
| | - Ian D. Robertson
- School of Veterinary Medicine, College of Science, Health, Engineering and Education, Murdoch University, Perth 6150, Australia; (A.A.H.); (M.B.); (I.D.R.)
- China-Australia Joint Research and Training Center for Veterinary Epidemiology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, China
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
Costa AD, Jacomasso T, Mattos EC, Farias AB, Rampazzo RC, Pinto RS, Tassi W, Marciano MAM, Pereira-Chioccola VL, Murphy HR, da Silva AJ, Krieger MA. Ready-to-use qPCR for detection of Cyclospora cayetanensis or Trypanosoma cruzi in food matrices. Food Waterborne Parasitol 2021; 22:e00111. [PMID: 33681489 PMCID: PMC7930119 DOI: 10.1016/j.fawpar.2021.e00111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2020] [Revised: 12/17/2020] [Accepted: 12/31/2020] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Foodborne outbreaks caused by parasites have long been a public health issue. Among the available contamination detection methods, qPCR is one of the most sensitive and specific. However, it can be cumbersome and error-prone, if used by unexperienced users. Moreover, qPCR reagents usually require freezer temperatures for transportation and storage. We present a gelified reaction format that allows the reagents to be stored at 2-8 °C for up to 90 days without losing performance. The gelification process eliminates most operator mistakes during reaction setup, and renders the qPCR plates ready-to-use. The new reaction makeup was evaluated using artificially contaminated samples of distinct food matrices for sensitivity, specificity, repeatability, reproducibility, and stability. Samples consisted of cilantro leaves and raspberry fruits spiked with Cyclospora cayetanensis oocysts, as well as açai pulp and sugarcane juice tainted with Trypanosoma cruzi trypomastigotes. No significant difference between the gelified and the non-gelified qPCR was found. Our results suggest that gelifying the assay may help to achieve more reproducible qPCR data across laboratories, thus supporting surveillance actions. (170 words).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alexandre D.T. Costa
- Laboratório de Ciências e Tecnologias Aplicadas à Saúde (LaCTAS), Instituto Carlos Chagas (ICC), Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Rua Professor Algacyr Munhoz Mader 3775, Curitiba 81350-010, Brazil
- Instituto de Biologia Molecular do Paraná (IBMP), Rua Professor Algacyr Munhoz Mader 3775, Curitiba 81350-010, Brazil
| | - Thiago Jacomasso
- Instituto de Biologia Molecular do Paraná (IBMP), Rua Professor Algacyr Munhoz Mader 3775, Curitiba 81350-010, Brazil
| | - Elaine C. Mattos
- Instituto Adolfo Lutz (IAL Santo André), Av. Ramiro Colleone 240, Santo André, SP 09040-160, Brazil
| | - Aline B. Farias
- Instituto de Biologia Molecular do Paraná (IBMP), Rua Professor Algacyr Munhoz Mader 3775, Curitiba 81350-010, Brazil
| | - Rita C.P. Rampazzo
- Instituto de Biologia Molecular do Paraná (IBMP), Rua Professor Algacyr Munhoz Mader 3775, Curitiba 81350-010, Brazil
| | - Rebeka S. Pinto
- Instituto de Biologia Molecular do Paraná (IBMP), Rua Professor Algacyr Munhoz Mader 3775, Curitiba 81350-010, Brazil
| | - Walleyd Tassi
- Instituto de Biologia Molecular do Paraná (IBMP), Rua Professor Algacyr Munhoz Mader 3775, Curitiba 81350-010, Brazil
| | | | | | - Helen R. Murphy
- U.S. Food & Drug Administration Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition (CFSAN), Office of Applied Research and Safety Assessment, 8301 Muirkirk Road, Laurel, MD 21403, USA
| | - Alexandre J. da Silva
- U.S. Food & Drug Administration Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition (CFSAN), Office of Applied Research and Safety Assessment, 8301 Muirkirk Road, Laurel, MD 21403, USA
| | - Marco A. Krieger
- Laboratório de Ciências e Tecnologias Aplicadas à Saúde (LaCTAS), Instituto Carlos Chagas (ICC), Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Rua Professor Algacyr Munhoz Mader 3775, Curitiba 81350-010, Brazil
- Instituto de Biologia Molecular do Paraná (IBMP), Rua Professor Algacyr Munhoz Mader 3775, Curitiba 81350-010, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
41
|
Bandini G, Agop-Nersesian C, van der Wel H, Mandalasi M, Kim HW, West CM, Samuelson J. The nucleocytosolic O-fucosyltransferase SPINDLY affects protein expression and virulence in Toxoplasma gondii. J Biol Chem 2021; 296:100039. [PMID: 33158988 PMCID: PMC7949088 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.ra120.015883] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2020] [Revised: 10/23/2020] [Accepted: 11/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Once considered unusual, nucleocytoplasmic glycosylation is now recognized as a conserved feature of eukaryotes. While in animals, O-GlcNAc transferase (OGT) modifies thousands of intracellular proteins, the human pathogen Toxoplasma gondii transfers a different sugar, fucose, to proteins involved in transcription, mRNA processing, and signaling. Knockout experiments showed that TgSPY, an ortholog of plant SPINDLY and paralog of host OGT, is required for nuclear O-fucosylation. Here we verify that TgSPY is the nucleocytoplasmic O-fucosyltransferase (OFT) by 1) complementation with TgSPY-MYC3, 2) its functional dependence on amino acids critical for OGT activity, and 3) its ability to O-fucosylate itself and a model substrate and to specifically hydrolyze GDP-Fuc. While many of the endogenous proteins modified by O-Fuc are important for tachyzoite fitness, O-fucosylation by TgSPY is not essential. Growth of Δspy tachyzoites in fibroblasts is modestly affected, despite marked reductions in the levels of ectopically expressed proteins normally modified with O-fucose. Intact TgSPY-MYC3 localizes to the nucleus and cytoplasm, whereas catalytic mutants often displayed reduced abundance. Δspy tachyzoites of a luciferase-expressing type II strain exhibited infection kinetics in mice similar to wild-type but increased persistence in the chronic brain phase, potentially due to an imbalance of regulatory protein levels. The modest changes in parasite fitness in vitro and in mice, despite profound effects on reporter protein accumulation, and the characteristic punctate localization of O-fucosylated proteins suggest that TgSPY controls the levels of proteins to be held in reserve for response to novel stresses.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Giulia Bandini
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, Boston University Henry Goldman School of Dental Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.
| | - Carolina Agop-Nersesian
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, Boston University Henry Goldman School of Dental Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Hanke van der Wel
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia, USA
| | - Msano Mandalasi
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia, USA; Center for Tropical and Emerging Global Diseases, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia, USA
| | - Hyun W Kim
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia, USA
| | - Christopher M West
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia, USA; Center for Tropical and Emerging Global Diseases, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia, USA; Complex Carbohydrate Research Center, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia, USA
| | - John Samuelson
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, Boston University Henry Goldman School of Dental Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| |
Collapse
|
42
|
Moratal S, Dea-Ayuela MA, Cardells J, Marco-Hirs NM, Puigcercós S, Lizana V, López-Ramon J. Potential Risk of Three Zoonotic Protozoa ( Cryptosporidium spp., Giardia duodenalis, and Toxoplasma gondii) Transmission from Fish Consumption. Foods 2020; 9:E1913. [PMID: 33371396 PMCID: PMC7767443 DOI: 10.3390/foods9121913] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2020] [Revised: 12/15/2020] [Accepted: 12/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
In recent decades, worldwide fish consumption has increased notably worldwide. Despite the health benefits of fish consumption, it also can suppose a risk because of fishborne diseases, including parasitic infections. Global changes are leading to the emergence of parasites in new locations and to the appearance of new sources of transmission. That is the case of the zoonotic protozoa Cryptosporidium spp., Giardia duodenalis, and Toxoplasma gondii; all of them reach aquatic environments and have been found in shellfish. Similarly, these protozoa can be present in other aquatic animals, such as fish. The present review gives an overview on these three zoonotic protozoa in order to understand their potential presence in fish and to comprehensively revise all the evidences of fish as a new potential source of Cryptosporidium spp., Giardia duodenalis, and Toxoplasma gondii transmission. All of them have been found in both marine and freshwater fishes. Until now, it has not been possible to demonstrate that fish are natural hosts for these protozoa; otherwise, they would merely act as mechanical transporters. Nevertheless, even if fish only accumulate and transport these protozoa, they could be a "new" source of infection for people.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Samantha Moratal
- Servicio de Análisis, Investigación y Gestión de Animales Silvestres (SAIGAS), Veterinary Faculty, Universidad CEU-Cardenal Herrera, Tirant lo Blanc St 7, 46115 Alfara del Patriarca, Valencia, Spain; (S.M.); (J.C.); (N.M.M.-H.); (S.P.); (V.L.); (J.L.-R.)
| | - M. Auxiliadora Dea-Ayuela
- Farmacy Department, Universidad CEU-Cardenal Herrera, Santiago Ramón y Cajal St, 46115 Alfara del Patriarca, Valencia, Spain
| | - Jesús Cardells
- Servicio de Análisis, Investigación y Gestión de Animales Silvestres (SAIGAS), Veterinary Faculty, Universidad CEU-Cardenal Herrera, Tirant lo Blanc St 7, 46115 Alfara del Patriarca, Valencia, Spain; (S.M.); (J.C.); (N.M.M.-H.); (S.P.); (V.L.); (J.L.-R.)
- Wildlife Ecology & Health Group (WE&H), Veterinary Faculty, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (UAB), Travessera dels Turons, 08193 Bellaterra, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Naima M. Marco-Hirs
- Servicio de Análisis, Investigación y Gestión de Animales Silvestres (SAIGAS), Veterinary Faculty, Universidad CEU-Cardenal Herrera, Tirant lo Blanc St 7, 46115 Alfara del Patriarca, Valencia, Spain; (S.M.); (J.C.); (N.M.M.-H.); (S.P.); (V.L.); (J.L.-R.)
| | - Silvia Puigcercós
- Servicio de Análisis, Investigación y Gestión de Animales Silvestres (SAIGAS), Veterinary Faculty, Universidad CEU-Cardenal Herrera, Tirant lo Blanc St 7, 46115 Alfara del Patriarca, Valencia, Spain; (S.M.); (J.C.); (N.M.M.-H.); (S.P.); (V.L.); (J.L.-R.)
| | - Víctor Lizana
- Servicio de Análisis, Investigación y Gestión de Animales Silvestres (SAIGAS), Veterinary Faculty, Universidad CEU-Cardenal Herrera, Tirant lo Blanc St 7, 46115 Alfara del Patriarca, Valencia, Spain; (S.M.); (J.C.); (N.M.M.-H.); (S.P.); (V.L.); (J.L.-R.)
- Wildlife Ecology & Health Group (WE&H), Veterinary Faculty, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (UAB), Travessera dels Turons, 08193 Bellaterra, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Jordi López-Ramon
- Servicio de Análisis, Investigación y Gestión de Animales Silvestres (SAIGAS), Veterinary Faculty, Universidad CEU-Cardenal Herrera, Tirant lo Blanc St 7, 46115 Alfara del Patriarca, Valencia, Spain; (S.M.); (J.C.); (N.M.M.-H.); (S.P.); (V.L.); (J.L.-R.)
| |
Collapse
|
43
|
Prevalence of Toxoplasma gondii infection among animals in Algeria: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Comp Immunol Microbiol Infect Dis 2020; 74:101603. [PMID: 33385968 DOI: 10.1016/j.cimid.2020.101603] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2020] [Revised: 11/28/2020] [Accepted: 12/02/2020] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii is a zoonotic parasite that can infect all warm-blooded animals. It is responsible for considerable economic losses in some regions and farming systems. This review aims to synthesize current findings on the prevalence and risk factors associated with T. gondii infection in animal species in Algeria. It was performed according to the recommendations of the PRISMA guideline. A total of 14 papers from 1955 to 2020 were eligible to be included in this systematic review and meta-analysis study including a number of 10,187 animals of which 2594 were positive cases (25.46 %) (24.62-26.31 %, 95 %CI). Prevalence of Toxoplasma-infection was 20.04 % in cattle, 22.57 % in sheep, 33.61 % in goats, 28.17 % in horses, 30 % in donkeys, 70.31 % in stray cats, 14.57 % in local rabbits, 30.47 % in dogs and 50.70 % in poultry farms. Adult animals and females were most infected. The highest prevalences were reported in stray cats and poultry. Rabbits were the least infected. This analysis showed a trend of increasing infection since 2015 (R² = 0.129, p > 0.05) which requires further studies to provide better prevention strategies.
Collapse
|
44
|
Pawełczyk O, Asman M, Solarz K. The Discovery of Zoonotic Protozoans in Fleas Parasitizing on Pets as a Potential Infection Threat. Acta Parasitol 2020; 65:817-822. [PMID: 32468231 PMCID: PMC7679334 DOI: 10.2478/s11686-020-00221-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2020] [Accepted: 04/23/2020] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Fleas are insects with a high medical and veterinary importance. They may participate in spreading of many pathogenic agents, but still there is limited information about their possible reservoir or vector role for protozoans. The main aim of this study was an attempt of detection zoonotic pathogens, such as Babesia microti and Toxoplasma gondii in fleas Ctenocephalides felis felis and Ctenocephalides canis. METHODS In 2013-2017, 155 fleas were captured from domestic dogs and cats in veterinary clinics, animal shelters and pet grooming salons in Upper Silesia Region in Poland. Then, the DNA was extracted from each Ctenocephalides flea by using the ammonia method. Samples were screened for the presence of B. microti and T. gondii using PCR and nested PCR methods. RESULTS B. microti was reported in 6.6% of C. felis felis and 9.1% of C. canis, whereas the prevalence of coinfection with B. microti and T. gondii was 1.9% in cat fleas and 2.3% in dog fleas. CONCLUSION This study shows the first cases of B. microti occurrence and B. microti and T. gondii coinfection in Ctenocephalides fleas. The estimation of prevalence of examined protozoans may be useful considering the possibility of infection among companion animals, as well as during presentation of the potential risk of infection in humans. In order to clarify the role of C. felis felis and C. canis in transmission of B. microti and T. gondii, the another studies with in vitro cultures and laboratory animals are needed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Olga Pawełczyk
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences in Sosnowiec, Medical University of Silesia, Katowice, Poland.
| | - Marek Asman
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences in Sosnowiec, Medical University of Silesia, Katowice, Poland
| | - Krzysztof Solarz
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences in Sosnowiec, Medical University of Silesia, Katowice, Poland
| |
Collapse
|
45
|
Almeria S, Dubey JP. Foodborne transmission of Toxoplasma gondii infection in the last decade. An overview. Res Vet Sci 2020; 135:371-385. [PMID: 33148402 DOI: 10.1016/j.rvsc.2020.10.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2020] [Revised: 10/14/2020] [Accepted: 10/20/2020] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Toxoplasmosis is a zoonotic disease of global distribution and importance. It is caused by the protozoan parasite Toxoplasma gondii, the only species in the Toxoplasma genus. This parasite can infect most warm-blooded animals, including humans and livestock. Main routes of transmission are by ingestion of tissue cysts in raw or undercooked meat of infected animals, ingestion of raw vegetables or water contaminated with T. gondii oocysts from cat feces, and transplacental. Around one-third of human beings are chronically infected with T. gondii. Most infections appear to be asymptomatic in immunocompetent persons, but toxoplasmosis can be fatal to the fetus and immunocompromised adults. Water and foodborne outbreaks have been caused by this parasite worldwide, but few are well documented. Importantly, T. gondii is a parasite of high importance in animal health, causing reproductive failure, particularly in small ruminants, and clinical toxoplasmosis in many species. This overview discusses the knowledge of T. gondii infections in the last decade focusing on the foodborne transmission of this parasite.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- S Almeria
- Department of Health and Human Services, Food and Drug Administration, Center for Food Safety and Nutrition, Office of Applied Research and Safety Assessment, Division of Virulence Assessment, Laurel, MD 20708, USA.
| | - J P Dubey
- USA Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Research Service, Beltsville Agricultural Research Service, Animal Parasitic Disease Laboratory, Building 1001, BARC-East, Beltsville, MD 20705-2350, USA
| |
Collapse
|
46
|
Tan S, Tong WH, Vyas A. Urolithin-A attenuates neurotoxoplasmosis and alters innate response towards predator odor. Brain Behav Immun Health 2020; 8:100128. [PMID: 34589880 PMCID: PMC8474456 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbih.2020.100128] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2020] [Revised: 08/04/2020] [Accepted: 08/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Neurotoxoplasmosis, also known as cerebral toxoplasmosis, is an opportunistic chronic infection caused by the persistence of parasite Toxoplasma gondii cysts in the brain. In wild animals, chronic infection is associated with behavioral manipulation evident by an altered risk perception towards predators. In humans, reactivation of cysts and conversion of quiescent parasites into highly invasive tachyzoites is a significant cause of mortality in immunocompromised patients. However, the current standard therapy for toxoplasmosis is not well tolerated and is ineffective against the parasite cysts. In recent years, the concept of dietary supplementation with natural products derived from plants has gained popularity as a natural remedy for brain disorders. Notably, urolithin-A, a metabolite produced in the gut following consumption of ellagitannins-enriched food such as pomegranate, is reported to be blood-brain barrier permeable and exhibits neuroprotective effects in-vivo. In this study, we investigated the potential of pomegranate extract and urolithin-A as anti-neurotoxoplasmosis agents in-vitro and in-vivo. Treatment with pomegranate extract and urolithin-A reduced the parasite tachyzoite load and interfered with cyst development in differentiated human neural culture. Administration of urolithin-A also resulted in the formation of smaller brain cysts in chronically infected mice. Interestingly, this phenomenon was mirrored by an enhanced risk perception of the UA-treated infected mice towards predatory cues. Together, our findings demonstrate the potential of dietary supplementation with urolithin-A-enriched food as a novel natural remedy for the treatment of acute and chronic neurotoxoplasmosis. Pomegranate extract reduces T. gondii tachyzoite load and cyst formation in-vitro. Urolithin-A, in part, underlies the anti-T. gondii effect of pomegranate extract. Urolithin-A perturbs cyst development in the brain of chronically infected mice. The reduction in brain cyst burden associates with enhanced fear of infected mice towards cat odor. Dietary supplementation with urolithin-A is a potential therapy for neurotoxoplasmosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sijie Tan
- School of Biological Sciences, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, 637551, Singapore
| | - Wen Han Tong
- School of Biological Sciences, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, 637551, Singapore
| | - Ajai Vyas
- School of Biological Sciences, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, 637551, Singapore
| |
Collapse
|
47
|
Lachkhem A, Lahmar I, Galal L, Babba O, Mezhoud H, Hassine M, Lachkhem A, Dardé ML, Mercier A, Babba H. Seroprevalence of Toxoplasma gondii among healthy blood donors in two locations in Tunisia and associated risk factors. Parasite 2020; 27:51. [PMID: 32955429 PMCID: PMC7504876 DOI: 10.1051/parasite/2020049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2020] [Accepted: 09/05/2020] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii is a protozoan parasite that can be transmitted to humans through a variety of routes including blood transfusion. This study aimed to investigate the seroprevalence of T. gondii infection and associated risk factors in healthy blood donors in Tunisia. A total of 800 healthy blood donors from two blood centers in south and coastal Tunisia were analyzed for anti-T. gondii IgG and IgM antibodies by indirect immunofluorescence assay (IFA) and enzyme-linked immunoassays (ELISA), respectively. Structured questionnaires were used to gather information on risk factors for T. gondii infection during collection. The overall seroprevalence was 44.4% of which 352 (44%) and 3 (0.4%) were positive for IgG and both IgG and IgM anti-T. gondii antibodies, respectively. Multivariate analysis showed that T. gondii seropositivity was significantly associated with the birth place (adjusted odds ratio [OR] = 2.72; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.49–4.94) and the age of the donors (adjusted OR = 4.98; 95% CI: 1.50–16.58) which are independent risk factors. In addition, the variables of hand washing before eating (adjusted OR = 0.52; 95% CI: 0.37–0.74) and living in an urban environment (adjusted OR = 0.30; 95% CI: 0.13–0.71) are two protective factors. This study provided the first data on the seroprevalence and epidemiology of T. gondii infection in healthy blood donors in Tunisia.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Arwa Lachkhem
- Laboratoire de Parasitologie-Mycologie Médicale et Moléculaire, Département de Biologie Clinique B, Faculté de Pharmacie de Monastir, Université de Monastir, 5000 Monastir, Tunisia
| | - Ibtissem Lahmar
- Laboratoire de Parasitologie-Mycologie Médicale et Moléculaire, Département de Biologie Clinique B, Faculté de Pharmacie de Monastir, Université de Monastir, 5000 Monastir, Tunisia
| | - Lokman Galal
- INSERM, Université Limoges, CHU Limoges, IRD, U1094 Neuroépidémiologie Tropicale, Institut d'Epidémiologie et de Neurologie Tropicale, GEIST, 87000 Limoges, France
| | - Oussama Babba
- Laboratoire de Parasitologie-Mycologie Médicale et Moléculaire, Département de Biologie Clinique B, Faculté de Pharmacie de Monastir, Université de Monastir, 5000 Monastir, Tunisia - Centre de Maternité et de Néonatologie de Monastir, 5000 Monastir, Tunisia
| | - Habib Mezhoud
- Laboratoire de Parasitologie-Mycologie Médicale et Moléculaire, Département de Biologie Clinique B, Faculté de Pharmacie de Monastir, Université de Monastir, 5000 Monastir, Tunisia
| | - Mohssen Hassine
- Hématologie - Banque du Sang de Monastir, 5000 Monastir, Tunisia
| | - Ahmed Lachkhem
- Centre de Transfusion Sanguine de Gafsa, 2100 Gafsa, Tunisia
| | - Marie-Laure Dardé
- INSERM, Université Limoges, CHU Limoges, IRD, U1094 Neuroépidémiologie Tropicale, Institut d'Epidémiologie et de Neurologie Tropicale, GEIST, 87000 Limoges, France - Centre National de Référence (CNR) Toxoplasmose/Toxoplasma Biological Center (BRC), Centre Hospitalier-Universitaire Dupuytren, 87000 Limoges, France
| | - Aurélien Mercier
- INSERM, Université Limoges, CHU Limoges, IRD, U1094 Neuroépidémiologie Tropicale, Institut d'Epidémiologie et de Neurologie Tropicale, GEIST, 87000 Limoges, France - Centre National de Référence (CNR) Toxoplasmose/Toxoplasma Biological Center (BRC), Centre Hospitalier-Universitaire Dupuytren, 87000 Limoges, France
| | - Hamouda Babba
- Laboratoire de Parasitologie-Mycologie Médicale et Moléculaire, Département de Biologie Clinique B, Faculté de Pharmacie de Monastir, Université de Monastir, 5000 Monastir, Tunisia - Centre de Maternité et de Néonatologie de Monastir, 5000 Monastir, Tunisia
| |
Collapse
|
48
|
Gazzonis AL, Marino AMF, Garippa G, Rossi L, Mignone W, Dini V, Giunta RP, Luini M, Villa L, Zanzani SA, Manfredi MT. Toxoplasma gondii seroprevalence in beef cattle raised in Italy: a multicenter study. Parasitol Res 2020; 119:3893-3898. [PMID: 32920650 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-020-06878-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2020] [Accepted: 09/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Toxoplasmosis represents an important public health issue, with the consumption of raw or undercooked meat being a major way of human infection. The role of beef in the transmission of the parasite to humans is questioned due to lower quantity of tissue cysts compared with other meat-producing species. However, the habit of consuming raw beef is regionally diffused, and the risk posed by Toxoplasma gondii infection in cattle should not be overlooked. Therefore, to update information on T. gondii in cattle reared in Italy, a multicentric seroepidemiological survey was designed and implemented in four Northern regions (Liguria, Lombardy, Piedmont, and Trentino Alto Adige) and Sardinia. Overall, a convenience sampling was performed, collecting 1444 serum samples from 57 beef cattle herds. Thirteen beef breeds were sampled, besides cross-breed; bovines age varied from 3 months to over 12 years. Sera were tested with a commercial ELISA for the detection of anti-T. gondii antibodies. Individual and herd data were analyzed by binary logistic regression analysis. A T. gondii seroprevalence of 10.2% was recorded, with differences among regions and values ranging from 5.3% in Liguria to 18.6% in the Piedmont region (p value = 0.0001). Both young and adult animals and males and females tested positive, without any significant difference (age and gender: p value > 0.05). Lower seroprevalence values were recorded in cattle born in Italy (8.7%) if compared with animals imported from abroad (13.4%) (p value = 0.046). The spread of T. gondii in beef cattle destined to Italian consumers is confirmed, suggesting the need of continuous monitoring of the infection.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Anna Maria Fausta Marino
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Sicilia "A. Mirri", Centro di Referenza Nazionale per la Toxoplasmosi (Ce.Tox.), Palermo, Italy
| | - Giovanni Garippa
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy
| | - Luca Rossi
- Department of Veterinary Science, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Walter Mignone
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Piemonte, Liguria e Valle d'Aosta, Imperia Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Piemonte, Liguria e Valle d'Aosta, Imperia, Italy
| | - Valter Dini
- Health Veterinary Service, A.S.L. Savonese 2, Savona, Italy
| | - Renato Paolo Giunta
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Sicilia "A. Mirri", Centro di Referenza Nazionale per la Toxoplasmosi (Ce.Tox.), Palermo, Italy
| | - Mario Luini
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Lombardia e dell'Emilia Romagna, Lodi, Italy
| | - Luca Villa
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
49
|
Seroepidemiology of Toxoplasma gondii in Dairy Cows in Southeastern Brazil: Seropositive Cows on All Farms Investigated. Acta Parasitol 2020; 65:628-635. [PMID: 32207057 DOI: 10.2478/s11686-019-00140-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2019] [Accepted: 10/29/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE This study aimed to estimate the prevalence and identify the risk factors associated with the higher in-herd T. gondii seroprevalence in dairy cows in 37 farms in southern Minas Gerais, Southeastern Brazil. METHODS Serum samples from 1,105 dairy cows were subjected to an indirect fluorescence antibody test (IFAT 1:64) for anti-T. gondii IgG. The association existing between possible risk factors at the herd level and the seroprevalence were verified through Generalized Estimating Equation (GEE) multiple logistic regression models. RESULTS Anti-T. gondii antibodies were observed in 31.4% of the cows (347; 95% CI= 28.7-34.2) and on 100% of the farms (37; 95% CI= 90.6-100.0%), indicating that all properties possessed at least one seropositive animal. For univariate analysis, herds with seroprevalence were categorized as greater and less than 30% as the outcome. The "breeding of Holstein Friesian cows" (p= 0.016, OR= 6.667, 95% CI= 1.500-29.628) and in an "intensive system" (p= 0.013, OR= 6.120, 95% CI= 1.394-26.876) increased the chance of the herd seroprevalence being greater than 30% by approximately six-fold. However, these variables did not exhibit a significant association (p >0.05) in the Generalized Estimating Equations (GEE) logistic regression model. CONCLUSIONS The results demonstrate that T. gondii infection is widespread among dairy cows in the south of Minas Gerais, with a wide environmental dispersion of the parasite on farms in this region.
Collapse
|
50
|
Krijger IM, Ahmed AAA, Goris MGA, Cornelissen JBWJ, Groot Koerkamp PWG, Meerburg BG. Wild rodents and insectivores as carriers of pathogenic Leptospira and Toxoplasma gondii in The Netherlands. Vet Med Sci 2020; 6:623-630. [PMID: 32134214 PMCID: PMC7397885 DOI: 10.1002/vms3.255] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Small mammals such as rodents can to carry zoonotic pathogens. Currently, there is impaired knowledge on zoonotic pathogens in rodents and insectivores in the Netherlands. This limits opportunities for preventive measures and complicates risk-assessments for zoonotic transmission to humans. Leptospira spp. and Toxoplasma gondii are present on a list of prioritized emerging pathogens in the Netherlands and were therefore the focus of this study. Both pathogens have the ability to survive under moist environmental conditions. In total, a group of 379 small mammals (rodents & insectivores) were tested on pathogenic Leptospira spp., and 312 on T. gondii. Rodents and insectivores were trapped at various sites, but mostly on pig and dairy farms throughout the country. Over five percent of the animals (5.3%, n = 379) tested positive for Leptospira DNA, and five of the animals (1.6%, n = 312) tested were positive for T. gondii DNA. The animals positive for T.gondii were all brown rats and the ones for Leptospira spp. were various species. Our results show that insectivores and rodents might be used as an indicator for the environmental contamination and/or the contamination in wildlife for Leptospira spp.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Inge M. Krijger
- Wageningen University & Research , Livestock ResearchWageningenThe Netherlands
- Farm Technology GroupWageningen University & ResearchWageningenThe Netherlands
| | - Ahmed A. A. Ahmed
- Department of Medical MicrobiologyOIE and National Collaborating Centre for Reference and Research on Leptospirosis (NRL) Academic Medical CentreUniversity of AmsterdamAmsterdamThe Netherlands
| | - Maria G. A. Goris
- Department of Medical MicrobiologyOIE and National Collaborating Centre for Reference and Research on Leptospirosis (NRL) Academic Medical CentreUniversity of AmsterdamAmsterdamThe Netherlands
| | | | | | - Bastiaan G. Meerburg
- Wageningen University & Research , Livestock ResearchWageningenThe Netherlands
- Dutch Pest and Wildlife Expertise Centre (KAD)WageningenThe Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|