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Healy SR, Morgan ER, Prada JM, Karadjian G, Chevillot A, Betson M. First use of tissue exudate serology to identify Toxocara spp. infection in food animals. Int J Parasitol 2024:S0020-7519(24)00048-1. [PMID: 38458482 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpara.2024.02.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2023] [Revised: 01/24/2024] [Accepted: 02/29/2024] [Indexed: 03/10/2024]
Abstract
Toxocara canis and Toxocara cati are globally distributed, zoonotic roundworm parasites. Human infection can have serious clinical consequences including blindness and brain disorders. In addition to ingesting environmental eggs, humans can become infected by eating infective larvae in raw or undercooked meat products. To date, no studies have assessed the prevalence of Toxocara spp. larvae in meat from animals consumed as food in the UK or assessed tissue exudates for the presence of anti-Toxocara antibodies. This study aimed to assess the potential risk to consumers eating meat products from animals infected with Toxocara spp. Tissue samples were obtained from 155 different food producing animals in the south, southwest and east of England, UK. Tissue samples (n = 226), either muscle or liver, were processed by artificial digestion followed by microscopic sediment evaluation for Toxocara spp. larvae, and tissue exudate samples (n = 141) were tested for the presence of anti-Toxocara antibodies using a commercial ELISA kit. A logistic regression model was used to compare anti-Toxocara antibody prevalence by host species, tissue type and source. While no larvae were found by microscopic examination after tissue digestion, the overall prevalence of anti-Toxocara antibodies in tissue exudates was 27.7%. By species, 35.3% of cattle (n = 34), 15.0% of sheep (n = 60), 54.6% of goats (n = 11) and 61.1% of pigs (n = 18) had anti-Toxocara antibodies. Logistic regression analysis found pigs were more likely to be positive for anti-Toxocara antibodies (odds ration (OR) = 2.89, P = 0.0786) compared with the other species sampled but only at a 10% significance level. The high prevalence of anti-Toxocara antibodies in tissue exudates suggests that exposure of food animals to this parasite is common in England. Tissue exudate serology on meat products within the human food chain could be applied in support of food safety and to identify practices that increase risks of foodborne transmission of zoonotic toxocariasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara R Healy
- University of Surrey, School of Veterinary Medicine, Daphne Jackson Road, University of Surrey, Guildford, Surrey GU2 7AL, UK
| | - Eric R Morgan
- Queen's University, Institute for Global Food Security, Biological Sciences Building, 19 Chlorine Gardens, BT9 5DL Belfast, UK
| | - Joaquin M Prada
- University of Surrey, School of Veterinary Medicine, Daphne Jackson Road, University of Surrey, Guildford, Surrey GU2 7AL, UK
| | - Grégory Karadjian
- Anses, Laboratoire de Santé Animale, INRAE, Ecole Nationale Vétérinaire d'Alfort, Maisons-Alfort 94700, France
| | - Aurélie Chevillot
- Anses, Laboratoire de Santé Animale, INRAE, Ecole Nationale Vétérinaire d'Alfort, Maisons-Alfort 94700, France
| | - Martha Betson
- University of Surrey, School of Veterinary Medicine, Daphne Jackson Road, University of Surrey, Guildford, Surrey GU2 7AL, UK.
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Santarém VA, Pinto GLB, de Souza Filho RT, Ferreira IB, Lescano SAZ, Gonzáles WHR, Kosloski J, Ribeiro J, Giuffrida R, Dos Santos AP, Kmetiuk LB, Biondo AW. Risk factors for toxocariasis during incarceration: the One Health intervention approach. Sci Rep 2023; 13:19470. [PMID: 37945589 PMCID: PMC10636119 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-45484-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2023] [Accepted: 10/19/2023] [Indexed: 11/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite potential exposure to soil-transmitted helminths, especially when stray dogs and cats are present, toxocariasis in inmate populations remains to be established. Accordingly, the present study assessed the seroprevalence and associated risk factors of toxocariasis at the Women's State Penitentiary of Parana, Brazil. A total of 234/370 (63.2%; 95% CI 58.2-68.0) women inmates and 28/87 (32.2%; 95% CI 23.3-42.6) correctional officers were seropositive for anti-Toxocara spp. IgG by ELISA, with inmates 2.62-fold more likely positive (p = 0.00000026). The univariate model has identified that non-white (OR = 1.58, p = 0.047) and older than 39 years (OR = 1.28, p = 0.032) inmates were associated with mild but significant odds for seropositivity. Elementary or higher educational level was considered a protective factor for seropositivity. The presence of Toxocara spp. eggs was observed in 10/15 (66.7%) collected soil samples by centrifuge-flotation in Zinc Sulfate, and molecular analysis by PCR identified only Toxocara cati in these eggs. An intervention program was established with regular trap-neuter-release, with gradual removal for adoption (donation campaigns), treatment, and euthanasia when necessary (particularly due to advanced sporotrichosis). In addition, an educational awareness agenda was proposed, aiming to reduce soil contamination and accidental intake by the incarcerated population. A total of 40 feral cats were trapped, 20 males and 20 females, mostly adults. After trapping, 36 cats were neutered, treated, and microchipped in the Veterinary Teaching Hospital (VTH) at the Federal University of Paraná. Five trapped feral cats were euthanized, four diagnosed with advanced sporotrichosis, and one already neutered cat (not herein) with complications due to feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV). Female inmates presented higher seroprevalence for Toxocara spp. antibodies when compared to correctional officers, significantly associated with age, self-declared ethnicity (non-white), and lack of formal education. Despite the non-natural scenario of a state penitentiary, the One Health approach of Toxocara spp. has highlighted the interdisciplinary nature of the study and its relevance in understanding the complex interactions between human, animal, and environmental factors, particularly impacting female inmates. Further studies should establish the rate of inmate infection over time while deprived of liberty.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vamilton Alvares Santarém
- Graduate College in Animal Sciences, University of Western São Paulo (UNOESTE), Presidente Prudente, São Paulo, 19050-920, Brazil
| | - Gabriel Luís Brucinski Pinto
- Graduate College of Cell and Molecular Biology, Department of Veterinary Medicine, Federal University of Paraná (UFPR), Curitiba, Paraná (PR), 80035-050, Brazil
| | - Roberto Teixeira de Souza Filho
- Graduate College in Animal Sciences, University of Western São Paulo (UNOESTE), Presidente Prudente, São Paulo, 19050-920, Brazil
| | - Isabella Braghin Ferreira
- Graduate College in Animal Sciences, University of Western São Paulo (UNOESTE), Presidente Prudente, São Paulo, 19050-920, Brazil
| | | | | | - Jully Kosloski
- Graduate College of Cell and Molecular Biology, Department of Veterinary Medicine, Federal University of Paraná (UFPR), Curitiba, Paraná (PR), 80035-050, Brazil
| | - Juliano Ribeiro
- Graduate College of Cell and Molecular Biology, Department of Veterinary Medicine, Federal University of Paraná (UFPR), Curitiba, Paraná (PR), 80035-050, Brazil
| | - Rogério Giuffrida
- Graduate College in Animal Sciences, University of Western São Paulo (UNOESTE), Presidente Prudente, São Paulo, 19050-920, Brazil
| | | | - Louise Bach Kmetiuk
- Graduate College of Cell and Molecular Biology, Department of Veterinary Medicine, Federal University of Paraná (UFPR), Curitiba, Paraná (PR), 80035-050, Brazil
| | - Alexander Welker Biondo
- Graduate College of Cell and Molecular Biology, Department of Veterinary Medicine, Federal University of Paraná (UFPR), Curitiba, Paraná (PR), 80035-050, Brazil.
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Henke K, Ntovas S, Xourgia E, Exadaktylos AK, Klukowska-Rötzler J, Ziaka M. Who Let the Dogs Out? Unmasking the Neglected: A Semi-Systematic Review on the Enduring Impact of Toxocariasis, a Prevalent Zoonotic Infection. Int J Environ Res Public Health 2023; 20:6972. [PMID: 37947530 PMCID: PMC10649795 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20216972] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2023] [Revised: 09/28/2023] [Accepted: 10/17/2023] [Indexed: 11/12/2023]
Abstract
Toxocariasis remains an important neglected parasitic infection representing one of the most common zoonotic infections caused by the parasite Toxocara canis or, less frequently, by Toxocara cati. The epidemiology of the disease is complex due to its transmission route by accidental ingestion of embryonated Toxocara eggs or larvae from tissues from domestic or wild paratenic hosts. Even though the World Health Organization and Centers for Disease Control classified toxocariasis amongst the top six parasitic infections of priority to public health, global epidemiological data regarding the relationship between seropositivity and toxocariasis is limited. Although the vast majority of the infected individuals remain asymptomatic or experience a mild disease, the infection is associated with important health and socioeconomic consequences, particularly in underprivileged, tropical, and subtropical areas. Toxocariasis is a disease with multiple clinical presentations, which are classified into five distinct forms: the classical visceral larva migrans, ocular toxocariasis, common toxocariasis, covert toxocariasis, and cerebral toxocariasis or neurotoxocariasis. Anthelmintic agents, for example, albendazole or mebendazole, are the recommended treatment, whereas a combination with topical or systemic corticosteroids for specific forms is suggested. Prevention strategies include educational programs, behavioral and hygienic changes, enhancement of the role of veterinarians, and anthelmintic regimens to control active infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katrin Henke
- Department of Internal Medicine, Thun Hospital, Krankenhausstrasse 12, 3600 Thun, Switzerland;
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Inselspital, University Hospital, University of Bern, 3008 Bern, Switzerland; (S.N.); (A.K.E.); (J.K.-R.)
| | - Sotirios Ntovas
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Inselspital, University Hospital, University of Bern, 3008 Bern, Switzerland; (S.N.); (A.K.E.); (J.K.-R.)
- Department of Visceral Surgery and Medicine, lnselspital, University Hospital, University of Bern, 3008 Bern, Switzerland
| | - Eleni Xourgia
- Department of Heart Surgery, lnselspital, University Hospital, University of Bern, 3008 Bern, Switzerland;
| | - Aristomenis K. Exadaktylos
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Inselspital, University Hospital, University of Bern, 3008 Bern, Switzerland; (S.N.); (A.K.E.); (J.K.-R.)
| | - Jolanta Klukowska-Rötzler
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Inselspital, University Hospital, University of Bern, 3008 Bern, Switzerland; (S.N.); (A.K.E.); (J.K.-R.)
| | - Mairi Ziaka
- Department of Internal Medicine, Thun Hospital, Krankenhausstrasse 12, 3600 Thun, Switzerland;
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Inselspital, University Hospital, University of Bern, 3008 Bern, Switzerland; (S.N.); (A.K.E.); (J.K.-R.)
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Santarém VA, Doline FR, Ferreira IB, Farinhas JH, Biondo LM, de Souza Filho RT, Pettan-Brewer C, Giuffrida R, Lescano SAZ, dos Santos AP, Kmetiuk LB, Biondo AW. One health approach to toxocariasis in Brazilian indigenous populations, their dogs, and soil contamination. Front Public Health 2023; 11:1220001. [PMID: 37744519 PMCID: PMC10517057 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1220001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2023] [Accepted: 08/25/2023] [Indexed: 09/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Although socioeconomic vulnerability and lifestyle factors may contribute to the transmission of Toxocara spp., no study has investigated indigenous populations in Brazil using the One Health approach. Methods Accordingly, this study assessed anti-Toxocara spp. antibodies in Brazilian indigenous people and healthcare professionals by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Presence of Toxocara spp. eggs (feces and hair) in dogs as definitive hosts and in soil samples of the indigenous communities were also recovered and molecularly investigated. Results Overall, 342/463 (73.9%) indigenous individuals and 46/147 (31.3%) non-indigenous healthcare professionals were seropositive for Toxocara spp. In addition, T. canis eggs were retrieved from 9/194 (4.6%) dog fecal samples and 4/204 (2.0%) dog hair samples, mainly from the Paraná State communities (3/42; 7.1%). Soil contamination was observed only in the Paraná State communities (36/90; 40.0%), with the molecular detection of T. canis. River water consumption was also associated with indigenous seropositivity (Odds ratio, 11.4). Discussion Indigenous individuals in Paraná State communities were 2.72-fold more likely to be seropositive than those in São Paulo State, likely due to a lack of sanitary infrastructure. In this scenario, a primarily soil-transmitted disease may also have become waterborne, with embryonated eggs probably spread to water supplies by rain. Full-time healthcare professionals in daily contact with indigenous communities were 9.2-fold more likely to be seropositive than professionals who visited sporadically, suggesting exposure to Toxocara spp. during their work and raising health concerns. In addition, the findings herein showed a significantly higher seroprevalence in indigenous people than in healthcare workers (χ2 = 85.5; p < 0.0001), likely due to overtime exposure to Toxocara spp. In conclusion, Brazilian indigenous communities are highly exposed to toxocariasis, with poor infrastructure and contact with contaminated river water as associated risk factors and a higher risk of infection in healthcare professionals working full-time in these communities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vamilton Alvares Santarém
- Graduate College in Animal Sciences, University of Western São Paulo (UNOESTE), Presidente Prudente, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Fernando Rodrigo Doline
- Graduate College of Cell and Molecular Biology, Federal University of Paraná (UFPR), Curitiba, Paraná, Brazil
| | - Isabella Braghin Ferreira
- Graduate College in Animal Sciences, University of Western São Paulo (UNOESTE), Presidente Prudente, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - João Henrique Farinhas
- Graduate College of Cell and Molecular Biology, Federal University of Paraná (UFPR), Curitiba, Paraná, Brazil
| | - Leandro Meneguelli Biondo
- National Institute of the Atlantic Forest (INMA), Brazilian Ministry of Science, Technology, and Innovation, Santa Teresa, Espirito Santo, Brazil
| | | | - Christina Pettan-Brewer
- Department of Comparative Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - Rogério Giuffrida
- Graduate College of Cell and Molecular Biology, Federal University of Paraná (UFPR), Curitiba, Paraná, Brazil
| | | | - Andrea Pires dos Santos
- Department of Comparative Pathobiology, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, United States
| | - Louise Bach Kmetiuk
- Department of Comparative Pathobiology, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, United States
| | - Alexander Welker Biondo
- Graduate College of Cell and Molecular Biology, Federal University of Paraná (UFPR), Curitiba, Paraná, Brazil
- Department of Comparative Pathobiology, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, United States
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Pouryousef A, Sarkari B, Mootabi Alavi A, Omidian M, Mikaeili F. Deglycosylation of Excretory-Secretory Antigens of the Second-Stage Larvae of Toxocara cati Improves Its Efficacy in the Diagnosis of Human Toxocariasis. J Trop Med 2023; 2023:3024063. [PMID: 37492799 PMCID: PMC10365917 DOI: 10.1155/2023/3024063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2023] [Revised: 05/31/2023] [Accepted: 07/03/2023] [Indexed: 07/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Toxocariasis is an important zoonotic infection, especially in tropical areas. One of the significant challenges in the serodiagnosis of human toxocariasis is the cross-reaction of Toxocara antigens with other parasites due to their relatively similar glycan structures. Removing the glycan structure from Toxocara excretory-secretory (TES) antigens may increase the efficacy of these antigens in the diagnosis of toxocariasis. The current study aimed to assess the efficacy of deglycosylated Toxocara cati excretory-secretory (dTES) antigens for the serodiagnosis of human toxocariasis. Methods Toxocara ES antigens were prepared from T. cati second-stage larvae and deglycosylated using sodium hydroxide (NaOH). The TES antigens, along with the dTES antigens, were used in an ELISA as well as a western blotting system for the detection of anti-Toxocara antibodies. Sera samples collected from 30 confirmed cases of toxocariasis, 30 patients with other diseases, and 30 healthy subjects were evaluated by both systems. Results The sensitivity of TES and dTES ELISA for the diagnosis of human toxocariasis was 96.67% (95% CI = 82.78-99.92) and 93.33% (95% CI = 77.93-99.18), respectively, while the specificity of dTES (88.33%; 95% CI = 77.43-95.18) increased significantly compared to the TES (80.00%; 95% CI = 67.67-89.22). The sensitivity of both antigens was 100% (95% CI = 88.43-100) by the western blotting system. Moreover, the specificity of TES and dTES antigens was 95% (95% CI = 86.08-98.96) and 98.33% (95% CI = 91.06-99.96), respectively, when using the western blotting system. Conclusion Results of the current study indicate that the chemical removal of the glycan epitopes of T. cati ES antigens significantly reduces cross-reactivity rates with other parasitic infections. Considering the findings of the present study, the dTES antigens seem to be suitable antigens for the serodiagnosis of human toxocariasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali Pouryousef
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Bahador Sarkari
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Amir Mootabi Alavi
- Department of Pathobiology, School of Veterinary Medicine, Shiraz University, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Mostafa Omidian
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Fattaneh Mikaeili
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
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Avila HG, Sandon L, Anes PE, Meli SA, Giboin GA, Pérez VM, Periago MV. Environmental Toxocara spp. presence in crowded squares and public parks from San Juan Province, Argentina: A call for a "One Health" approach. Front Med (Lausanne) 2023; 10:1102396. [PMID: 36873864 PMCID: PMC9982091 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2023.1102396] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2022] [Accepted: 02/02/2023] [Indexed: 02/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Canine soil-transmitted helminth (cSTH) parasites need specific environmental conditions to complete their life cycle. Toxocara canis and T. cati are the most important zoonotic cSTH, since they are the causal agents of human toxocariasis. Canine STHs are dispersed in feces from infected domestic and wildlife canines. In this study, the presence of STH in canine feces was evaluated in 34 crowded public parks and squares from San Juan Province (Argentina). Methods Fecal samples were collected during different seasons in 2021-2022 and analyzed by standard coprological methods, including Sheather and Willis flotation and Telemann sedimentation. InfoStat 2020, OpenEpi V. 3.01 and R and RStudio® were used for statistical analysis and QGIS 3.16.10 for mapping. Results From a total of 1,121 samples collected, 100 (8.9%) were positive for at least one intestinal parasite (IP) and three cSTH species were detected: Toxocara spp., Toxascaris leonina and Trichuris vulpis. The most prevalent cSTH species was T. vulpis (64/1121; 0.057%), while the least prevalent was Toxocara spp. (19/1121; 0.017%). The detection of Toxocara spp. eggs was significantly different depending on the season. The geo-spatial variation of each cSTH per season is described. Discussion This is the first study in San Juan Province to identify environmental contamination of cSTHs in public areas. The specific localization of areas with the presence of cSTH eggs could provide information to guide strategies to reduce the cSTH infection burden in dogs and promote serological screening of the human population for Toxocara spp. Given the zoonotic nature of Toxocara spp. We hope this information will help to reinforce activities of control programs, focusing on the "One Health" approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Héctor Gabriel Avila
- Laboratorio Provincial de Zoonosis de San Juan, Ministerio de Salud Pública de San Juan, San Juan, Argentina.,Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, Buenos Aires, Argentina.,Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias, Universidad Católica de Cuyo, San Luis, Argentina
| | | | - Paola Emilce Anes
- Laboratorio Provincial de Zoonosis de San Juan, Ministerio de Salud Pública de San Juan, San Juan, Argentina
| | - Sergio Andrés Meli
- Programa Provincial de Control de Vectores de San Juan, Ministerio de Salud Pública de San Juan, San Juan, Argentina
| | - Gustavo Adolfo Giboin
- Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias, Universidad Católica de Cuyo, San Luis, Argentina
| | - Verónica Mirtha Pérez
- Laboratorio Provincial de Zoonosis de San Juan, Ministerio de Salud Pública de San Juan, San Juan, Argentina.,Sección de Rabia y Zoonosis, Dirección de Epidemiología, Ministerio de Salud Pública de San Juan, San Juan, Argentina
| | - María Victoria Periago
- Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, Buenos Aires, Argentina.,Fundación Mundo Sano, Buenos Aires, Argentina
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Baharudeen Z, Noordin R, Soon LT, Balachandra D, Anuar NS, Mustafa FH, Rahumatullah A. Isolation and Production of Human Monoclonal Antibody Proteins against a Toxocara canis Excretory-Secretory Recombinant Antigen. Pathogens 2022; 11. [PMID: 36364983 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens11111232] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2022] [Revised: 10/12/2022] [Accepted: 10/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Toxocariasis is a widespread zoonotic parasitic disease with a significant socioeconomic impact, particularly on underprivileged communities. Limitations of existing diagnostic tools and vague presenting symptoms may lead to misdiagnosis, thus underestimating the actual global impact of the disease. The present study describes the isolation and production of novel recombinant monoclonal antibodies against Toxocara canis recombinant TES-26 antigen (rTES-26) utilizing a human helminth scFv phage display library. The isolated antibody clones were characterized based on their gene sequences and binding characteristics. Three clones representing unique gene families (clone 48: IgHV3-LV1; clone 49: IgHV3-LV3; clone 50: IgHV6-LV3) were isolated, but only clones 48 and 49 showed successful insertion of the full-length scFv antibody sequence after sub-cloning. Both clones produced antibody proteins of good solubility and satisfactory yield and purity. Binding assays via Western blot and ELISA using rTES-26 and Toxocara canis native protein showed that both monoclonal antibodies were highly specific and sensitive to the target antigen. A preliminary antigen detection ELISA showed the diagnostic potential of the monoclonal antibody proteins. The proteins can also be useful in studying host−parasite interactions and therapeutic applications.
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Santarém VA, do Couto AC, Lescano SZ, Roldán WH, Delai RR, Giuffrida R, Kmetiuk LB, Biondo AW, Dangoudoubiyam S, Dos Santos AP. Serosurvey of anti-Toxocara canis antibodies in people experiencing homelessness and shelter workers from São Paulo, Brazil. Parasit Vectors 2022; 15:373. [PMID: 36253837 PMCID: PMC9574839 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-022-05499-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2022] [Accepted: 09/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite being one of the most prevalent helminth parasitic zoonoses worldwide and particularly in socioeconomically vulnerable populations, toxocariasis remains to be fully investigated in persons experiencing homelessness. Accordingly, the present study has aimed to assess the seroprevalence and associated risk factors of Toxocara spp. exposure in persons experiencing homelessness and shelter workers from a day-shelter in São Paulo city, Brazil. METHODS Anti-Toxocara IgG antibodies were detected by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Univariable and multivariable logistic regression models were performed to assess the risks for toxocariasis. RESULTS Overall, anti-Toxocara IgG antibodies were detected in 89/194 (45.9%, 95% CI: 39.0-52.9%) persons experiencing homelessness, twice as high (OR = 2.2; 95% CI = 1.245-3.873; P = 0.0089) than the frequency of 22/79 (27.8%, 95% CI: 19.2-38.6) in shelter workers. College education was the only protective factor for Toxocara spp. exposure (OR: 0.23; P = 0.018) revealed by logistic regression. CONCLUSIONS Although indicating a multifactorial origin of toxocariasis, the present study has assessed a highly vulnerable population with high disease risks and premature death. Thus, the living conditions of the homeless population have influenced the high prevalence of anti-Toxocara antibodies verified here compared with domiciled shelter workers. Despite being less exposed, shelter and other outdoor workers may present an occupational risk to toxocariasis. Future studies should establish whether such environmental exposure might occur in persons experiencing homelessness in other regions worldwide.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vamilton Alvares Santarém
- Graduate College in Animal Sciences, University of Western São Paulo (UNOESTE), Presidente Prudente, SP, 19050-920, Brazil
| | - Anahi Chechia do Couto
- Graduate College of Cellular and Molecular Biology, Federal University of Paraná (UFPR), Curitiba, PR, 81531-970, Brazil
| | - Susana Zevallos Lescano
- Institute of Tropical Medicine of São Paulo, University of São Paulo, Butantã, SP, 05403-000, Brazil
| | - William Henry Roldán
- Institute of Tropical Medicine of São Paulo, University of São Paulo, Butantã, SP, 05403-000, Brazil
| | - Ruana Renostro Delai
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Federal University of Paraná (UFPR), Curitiba, PR, 80035-050, Brazil
| | - Rogério Giuffrida
- Department of Comparative Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA
| | - Louise Bach Kmetiuk
- Department of Comparative Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA
| | - Alexander Welker Biondo
- Graduate College of Cellular and Molecular Biology, Federal University of Paraná (UFPR), Curitiba, PR, 81531-970, Brazil. .,Department of Veterinary Medicine, Federal University of Paraná (UFPR), Curitiba, PR, 80035-050, Brazil. .,Department of Comparative Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA.
| | - Sriveny Dangoudoubiyam
- Department of Comparative Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA
| | - Andrea Pires Dos Santos
- Department of Comparative Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA
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de Almeida Capella G, Berne Pinheiro N, Quintana de Moura M, Carra Perera S, Borges Weege G, Pereira Leivas Leite F, James Scaini C, Cristina da Silva Rappeti J, Aires Berne ME. Dioctophyme renale: in vitro culture, production of excretory and secretory antigens, and their use in immunodiagnosis. Vet Parasitol 2022; 303:109674. [DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2022.109674] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2021] [Revised: 01/27/2022] [Accepted: 02/03/2022] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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Hon LSG, Calvani NED, Ma G, Ward MP, Šlapeta J. Low exposure of urban dogs in metropolitan Sydney, Australia to Toxocara canis demonstrated by ELISA using T. canis excretory-secretory (E/S) larval antigens. Vet Parasitol 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2022.109663] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2021] [Revised: 01/20/2022] [Accepted: 01/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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Venturini E, Fusani L, Mantella A, Bianchi L, Antonelli A, Montagnani C, Chiappini E, Spinicci M, Bartoloni A, Rossolini GM, Zammarchi L, Galli L. Strongyloidiasis in Children Outside the Tropics: Do We Need to Increase Awareness? Microorganisms 2021; 9:1905. [PMID: 34576800 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms9091905] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2021] [Revised: 09/01/2021] [Accepted: 09/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Strongyloidiasis belongs to the group of neglected tropical diseases, due to diagnostic difficulties and the lack of systematic screening. Studies on strongyloidiasis prevalence are often heterogenous and mainly performed in adults in endemic countries. We retrospectively enrolled 2633 children referred to a tertiary care hospital in Italy between 2009 and 2020 and tested for S. stercoralis infection. Sixty-one (2.3%) had a positive serology and for 55 of them, clinical and epidemiological information were available. Thirteen cases (24%) were diagnosed in Italian children without history residency or travel to foreign countries, while the remaining were internationally adopted or migrant children. Seropositive patients were mostly asymptomatic, and often eosinophilia was the only sign of strongyloidiasis. Sero-reactivity to Toxocara canis was found in 1/3 of patients. Ivermectin was used in 37 (75.5%) treated patients. A significant reduction of eosinophil levels and IgG titer was seen after treatment. Our study confirms that strongyloidiasis is usually asymptomatic in children. However, due to the ability of the parasite to cause a life-long infection together with the risk of a severe form in case of immunosuppression, it is important to identify and treat infected children. Special consideration should be reserved to high-risk groups, such as immigrants and international adoptees, where screening for S. stercoralis is indicated. However, the study highlights that sporadic cases of autochthonous strongyloidiasis in Italy may occur. Therefore, pediatricians should be aware of this condition, which is often under-recognized.
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de Oliveira Azevedo P, Lescano SZ, Giuffrida R, Kmetiuk LB, Dos Santos AP, Dangoudoubiyam S, Biondo AW, Santarém VA. Serosurvey of anti-Toxocara antibodies and risk factors in adolescent and adult pregnant women of southeastern Brazil. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2021; 15:e0009571. [PMID: 34347773 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0009571] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2021] [Accepted: 06/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Toxocariasis is worldwide endemic parasitic anthropozoonosis with high risk to those in in vulnerable populations and particularly during pregnancy and childhood. Although the prevalence of anti-Toxocara spp. antibodies has been extensively studied, risk factors of pregnant women of different ages remains to be established. This study was designed to i) assess the presence of anti-Toxocara spp. antibodies in pregnant women that presented to the public health system in a city of southeastern Brazil, and ii) determine the risk factors for toxocariasis in adolescent and adult pregnant women. This cross-sectional study included 280 pregnant women (71 aged up to and including 17 years [adolescents] and 209 aged 18 years and older [adults]). Pregnant women voluntarily agreed to complete a socioeconomic questionnaire and provide serum samples. Anti-Toxocara IgG antibodies were screened by Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA). Univariable and multivariable logistic regression models were performed to assess the risks for toxocariasis. Overall, 20.7% of pregnant women were seropositive (33.8% of adolescents and 16.3% of adults). Prevalence in pregnant adolescents was 2.6-fold higher than in adults (Odds ration [OR]: 2.63; 95% CI: 1.42-4.86, p = 0.003). Multivariate analysis revealed that contact with soil (p = 0.01; OR = 4.76) and being in the first trimester of pregnancy (p = 0.03; OR = 0.17) had significantly greater risk of toxocariasis for adolescents, and attainment of elementary through middle school education level (p = 0.05; OR = 8.33) was a risk factor in adult pregnant women. Toxocariasis is likely underreported and neglected in adolescent pregnant women; this age group should always be monitored for toxocariasis and correspondent clinical signs, particularly at late pregnancy.
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Abstract
This is a review on the current status of Ascaris and Toxocara as agents of disease as a foodborne pathogen that is often transmitted onto produce via contaminated water. The paper introduces the parasites, their biology, disease caused, and mode of transmission. It summarizes recent research on methods for the detection of the parasites on crops, their prevalence in recent surveys of ready to eat plants in different parts of the world, and potential aspects of their means for remediation on vegetable crops. Also discussed is the ubiquitous nature of the presence of these eggs in the environment due to the many humans infected and means currently underway to control these parasites though improve water quality, sanitation, and hygiene.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dwight D Bowman
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14850, United States of America.
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Raulf MK, Jordan D, Auer H, Warnecke JM, Lepenies B, Strube C. A new ELISA and western blot technique based on recombinant TES antigen and/or larval antigen for the detection of toxocariasis in humans. Parasitology 2021; 148:333-40. [PMID: 33092663 DOI: 10.1017/S0031182020002085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
Serological antibody detection by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA)- and immunoblot-based methods constitutes the best indicator of human Toxocara infection. Nevertheless, the availability of serological tests, particularly western blots (WB), evaluated for sensitivity and specificity is limited. Therefore, an Anti-Toxocara-ELISA immunoglobulin g (IgG) prototype (Proto-ELISA) and an Anti-Toxocara-Westernblot (IgG) prototype (Proto-WB) were evaluated by testing 541 human sera pre-determined for Toxocara infection by an established in-house Anti-Toxocara-ELISA (IH-ELISA). To evaluate sensitivity and specificity of the newly developed ELISA and WB prototypes, results were compared to IH-ELISA and a commercial WB (Com-WB). Compared to the IH-ELISA, a sensitivity of 93.1% (229/246) and a specificity of 94.6% (279/295) of the Proto-ELISA with a Cohen's κ of 0.88 were obtained. The sensitivity of the Proto-WB was 76.7% (240/313) and specificity was 99.6% (227/228) with a Cohen's κ of 0.73 compared to those of Com-WB. A comparison to the IH-ELISA revealed 91.5% (225/246) sensitivity and 94.6% (279/295) specificity of the Proto-WB with a Cohen's κ of 0.86. Cross-reactivity was observed for some samples positive for Ascaris and Trichinella spp. in the Proto-ELISA, Proto-WB and Com-WB. Overall, the evaluated ELISA and WB prototypes showed high sensitivity and specificity, indicating high reliability of these newly developed tests.
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