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Cirkovic V, Veinovic G, Stankovic D, Mihaljica D, Sukara R, Tomanovic S. Evolutionary dynamics and geographical dispersal of Borrelia lusitaniae. Front Microbiol 2024; 15:1330914. [PMID: 38380089 PMCID: PMC10877945 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2024.1330914] [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: 10/31/2023] [Accepted: 01/03/2024] [Indexed: 02/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Borrelia lusitaniae is a species within the complex Borrelia burgdorferi sensu lato, associated with lizards as reservoirs and Ixodes ricinus as its main vector. Borrelia lusitaniae is predominantly distributed in Central and Southeast Europe, and in countries of the Mediterranean basin, such as Portugal, Morocco, Tunisia, and Italy where this spirochete appears to infect vector ticks more frequently than other genospecies. Evolution of this zoonotic tick-borne microparasite is shaped by different environmental factors. Comprehensive phylogenetic analysis may give insight into how B. lusitaniae spreads to new geographic locations. Aim We applied Bayesian statistical methods to B. lusitaniae multilocus sequence typing (MLST) data to study the migration routes of B. lusitaniae and its potential for further spread. Results The discrete phylogeographic analysis placed origins of B. lusitaniae in Southeast Europe and identified at least two introductions of B. lusitaniae from Europe to North Africa. Estimated effective reproductive potential (Re), as a key indicator for a pathogen spread, suggested potential for further spread. Conclusion The results of this study can provide beneficial information about the potential for further spread of B. lusitaniae in Europe and North Africa and estimation of necessity for the development of strategies to monitor and control Lyme borreliosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valentina Cirkovic
- Group for Medical Entomology, Centre of Excellence for Food- and Vector-Borne Zoonoses, Institute for Medical Research, National Institute of Republic of Serbia, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Gorana Veinovic
- Group for Medical Entomology, Centre of Excellence for Food- and Vector-Borne Zoonoses, Institute for Medical Research, National Institute of Republic of Serbia, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | | | - Darko Mihaljica
- Group for Medical Entomology, Centre of Excellence for Food- and Vector-Borne Zoonoses, Institute for Medical Research, National Institute of Republic of Serbia, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Ratko Sukara
- Group for Medical Entomology, Centre of Excellence for Food- and Vector-Borne Zoonoses, Institute for Medical Research, National Institute of Republic of Serbia, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Snezana Tomanovic
- Group for Medical Entomology, Centre of Excellence for Food- and Vector-Borne Zoonoses, Institute for Medical Research, National Institute of Republic of Serbia, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
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Kapo N, Zuber Bogdanović I, Gagović E, Žekić M, Veinović G, Sukara R, Mihaljica D, Adžić B, Kadriaj P, Cvetkovikj A, Djadjovski I, Potkonjak A, Velo E, Savić S, Tomanović S, Omeragić J, Beck R, Hodžić A. Ixodid ticks and zoonotic tick-borne pathogens of the Western Balkans. Parasit Vectors 2024; 17:45. [PMID: 38297327 PMCID: PMC10832161 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-023-06116-1] [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] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2023] [Accepted: 12/27/2023] [Indexed: 02/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Ixodid ticks are distributed across all countries of the Western Balkans, with a high diversity of species. Many of these species serve as vectors of pathogens of veterinary and medical importance. Given the scattered data from Western Balkan countries, we have conducted a comprehensive review of available literature, including some historical data, with the aim to compile information about all recorded tick species and associated zoonotic pathogens in this region. Based on the collected data, the tick fauna of the Western Balkans encompasses 32 tick species belonging to five genera: Ixodes, Haemaphysalis, Dermacentor, Rhipicephalus and Hyalomma. A range of pathogens responsible for human diseases has also been documented, including viruses, bacteria and parasites. In this review, we emphasize the necessity for integrated surveillance and reporting, urging authorities to foster research by providing financial support. Additionally, international and interdisciplinary collaborations should be encouraged that include the exchange of expertise, experiences and resources. The present collaborative effort can effectively address gaps in our knowledge of ticks and tick-borne diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Naida Kapo
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Sarajevo, Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina
| | | | - Ema Gagović
- Department for Bacteriology and Parasitology, Laboratory for Parasitology, Croatian Veterinary Institute, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Marina Žekić
- Scientific Veterinary Institute "Novi Sad", Novi Sad, Serbia
| | - Gorana Veinović
- Institute for Medical Research, National Institute of Republic of Serbia, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Ratko Sukara
- Institute for Medical Research, National Institute of Republic of Serbia, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Darko Mihaljica
- Institute for Medical Research, National Institute of Republic of Serbia, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Bojan Adžić
- Diagnostic Veterinary Laboratory, Podgorica, Montenegro
| | - Përparim Kadriaj
- Vector Control Unit, Department of Epidemiology and Control of Infectious Diseases, Institute of Public Health, Tirana, Albania
| | - Aleksandar Cvetkovikj
- Veterinary Institute, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ss. Cyril and Methodius University in Skopje, Skopje, North Macedonia
| | - Igor Djadjovski
- Veterinary Institute, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ss. Cyril and Methodius University in Skopje, Skopje, North Macedonia
| | - Aleksandar Potkonjak
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Novi Sad, Novi Sad, Serbia
| | - Enkelejda Velo
- Vector Control Unit, Department of Epidemiology and Control of Infectious Diseases, Institute of Public Health, Tirana, Albania
| | - Sara Savić
- Scientific Veterinary Institute "Novi Sad", Novi Sad, Serbia
| | - Snežana Tomanović
- Institute for Medical Research, National Institute of Republic of Serbia, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Jasmin Omeragić
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Sarajevo, Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina
| | - Relja Beck
- Department for Bacteriology and Parasitology, Laboratory for Parasitology, Croatian Veterinary Institute, Zagreb, Croatia.
| | - Adnan Hodžić
- Department of Microbiology and Ecosystem Science, Centre for Microbiology and Environmental Systems Science (CMESS), University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria.
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Sukara R, Andrić N, Andrić JF, Mihaljica D, Veinović G, Ranković V, Tomanović S. Autochthonous infection with Ehrlichia Canis and Hepatozoon Canis in dogs from Serbia. Vet Med Sci 2022; 9:111-118. [PMID: 36580396 PMCID: PMC9857103 DOI: 10.1002/vms3.1061] [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] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The epidemiological status concerning many canine tick-borne diseases (TBDs) in Serbia is still insufficiently known. OBJECTIVES Our study aimed to investigate the presence of tick-borne pathogens of the family Anaplasmataceae and Hepatozoon spp., as a cause of illnesses accompanied by clinical signs that can occur in dogs with anaplasmosis, ehrlichiosis and hepatozoonosis. METHODS Dogs are included in the study based on the presence of a minimum of three clinical and/or pathological findings that could be associated with anaplasmosis, ehrlichiosis and hepatozoonosis. During the study (April-October 2018), 11 dogs met the conditions to be included in the survey. Identification of the causative agent in the blood of diseased dogs was performed by conventional PCR followed by sequencing. RESULTS The presence of the pathogens was confirmed in three animals (3/11, 27.3%). The presence of Ehrlichia canis was confirmed in 3-month-old female Rottweiler puppy, an 8-year old Miniature Schnauzer female was positive for Hepatozoon canis infection, while 4-year-old mixed breed male dog was co-infected with both mentioned pathogens. These are the first cases of autochthonous infection with E. canis and H. canis in dogs from Serbia confirmed by molecular methods. CONCLUSIONS The results of our study indicate the importance of molecular methods to establish a reliable diagnosis of TBDs. Also, the confirmed presence of causative agents of canine monocytic ehrlichiosis and hepatozoonosis in Serbia appeals to veterinary practitioners that it is necessary to exclude the presence of those diseases in suspicious dogs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ratko Sukara
- Institute for Medical Research‐ National Institute of Republic of Serbia, University of BelgradeGroup for Medical EntomologyBelgradeSerbia
| | - Nenad Andrić
- Faculty of Veterinary MedicineUniversity of BelgradeBelgradeSerbia
| | | | - Darko Mihaljica
- Institute for Medical Research‐ National Institute of Republic of Serbia, University of BelgradeGroup for Medical EntomologyBelgradeSerbia
| | - Gorana Veinović
- Institute for Medical Research‐ National Institute of Republic of Serbia, University of BelgradeGroup for Medical EntomologyBelgradeSerbia
| | | | - Snežana Tomanović
- Institute for Medical Research‐ National Institute of Republic of Serbia, University of BelgradeGroup for Medical EntomologyBelgradeSerbia
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Mihaljica D, Marković D, Repac J, Božić B, Radulović Ž, Veinović G, Sukara R, Ristanović E, Chochlakis D, Nedeljković BB, Tomanović S. Exploring immunogenicity of tick salivary AV422 protein in persons exposed to ticks: prospects for utilization. Exp Appl Acarol 2021; 85:83-99. [PMID: 34432178 DOI: 10.1007/s10493-021-00653-z] [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: 03/14/2021] [Accepted: 08/03/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
In order to determine whether conserved tick salivary protein AV422 is immunogenic, the goal of our study was to detect specific IgG response within at-risk populations. Study groups included 76 individuals, differing in occurrence of recently recorded tick bites and health status. Western blotting with recombinant (r) protein derived from Ixodes ricinus (Ir) was performed. IgG response to Borrelia/Rickettsia, as indicators of previous tick infestations, was also assessed. Additionally, a detailed in silico AV422 protein sequence analysis was performed, followed by modelling of the interactions between peptides and corresponding MHC II molecules by molecular docking. Anti-rIrAV422 seroprevalences among individuals exposed to ticks were high (62.5, 57.9 and 66.7%) and anti-Borrelia/Rickettsia seroprevalences were 54.2, 15.8 and 44.4% among individuals with/without recent tick bite and patients suspected of tick-borne disease, respectively. In silico analysis of AV422 protein sequence showed a high level of conservation across tick genera, including also the predicted antigenic determinants specific for T and B cells. Docking to the restricted MHC II molecules was performed for all predicted AV422 T cell epitopes, and the most potent (highly immunogenic) epitope determinants were suggested. The epitope prediction reveals that tick salivary protein AV422 may elicit humoral immune response in humans, which is consistent with the high anti-rIrAV422 seroprevalence in tested at-risk subjects. Tick-borne diseases are a growing public health concern worldwide, and AV422 is potentially useful in clinical practice and epidemiological studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Darko Mihaljica
- Group for Medical Entomology, Centre of Excellence for Food- and Vector-Borne Zoonoses, Institute for Medical Research, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia.
| | - Dragana Marković
- Group for Immunology, Institute for Medical Research, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Jelena Repac
- Institute for Physiology and Biochemistry "Ivan Djaja", University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Bojan Božić
- Institute for Physiology and Biochemistry "Ivan Djaja", University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Željko Radulović
- Department of Biology, College of Sciences and Mathematics, Stephen F. Austin State University, Nacogdoches, TX, USA
| | - Gorana Veinović
- Group for Medical Entomology, Centre of Excellence for Food- and Vector-Borne Zoonoses, Institute for Medical Research, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Ratko Sukara
- Group for Medical Entomology, Centre of Excellence for Food- and Vector-Borne Zoonoses, Institute for Medical Research, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Elizabeta Ristanović
- Institute for Microbiology, University of Defense, Military Medical Academy, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Dimosthenis Chochlakis
- Laboratory of Clinical Microbiology and Microbial Pathogenesis, School of Medicine, University of Crete, Heraklion, Crete, Greece
| | | | - Snežana Tomanović
- Group for Medical Entomology, Centre of Excellence for Food- and Vector-Borne Zoonoses, Institute for Medical Research, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
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Veinović G, Ćakić S, Mihaljica D, Sukara R, Ružić-Sabljić E, Tomanović S. In vitro efficacy of antibiotics against different Borrelia isolates. Acta Microbiol Immunol Hung 2021. [PMID: 34232906 DOI: 10.1556/030.2021.01441] [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: 03/12/2021] [Accepted: 06/11/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
In the present study, the effectiveness of six antimicrobial agents have been tested against 24 borrelia strains isolated from Ixodes ricinus ticks (11 Borrelia lusitaniae, eight Borrelia afzelii, three Borrelia garinii and two Borrelia valaisiana) and one B. lusitaniae strain isolated from human skin. The minimum inhibitory concentration range of antimicrobial agents was as follows: amoxicillin, 0.125-2 mg/L; doxycycline, 0.125-1 mg/L, ceftriaxone, 0.016-0.063 mg/L; cefuroxime, 0.063-1 mg/L; azithromycin, 0.0017-0.11 mg/L; amikacin 32-512 mg/L. Potentially pathogenic B. lusitaniae and B. valaisiana species were more susceptible to amoxicillin and azithromycin than pathogenic B. afzelii and B. garinii (P < 0.05); B. garinii, B. lusitaniae and B. valaisiana were more susceptible to doxycycline than B. afzelii (P < 0.05) while all species showed same susceptibility to ceftriaxone and cefuroxime (P > 0.05). This study is the first report on in vitro susceptibility of isolates from Serbia to antimicrobial agents and the first report on susceptibility of larger number of isolates of potentially pathogenic species B. lusitaniae. We showed that antimicrobial agents in vitro inhibit growth of borrelia strains very effectively, indicating the potential of their equally beneficial use in the treatment of Lyme borreliosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gorana Veinović
- 1Group for Medical Entomology, Centre of Excellence for Food and Vector Borne Zoonoses, Institute for Medical Research, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Sanja Ćakić
- 1Group for Medical Entomology, Centre of Excellence for Food and Vector Borne Zoonoses, Institute for Medical Research, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Darko Mihaljica
- 1Group for Medical Entomology, Centre of Excellence for Food and Vector Borne Zoonoses, Institute for Medical Research, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Ratko Sukara
- 1Group for Medical Entomology, Centre of Excellence for Food and Vector Borne Zoonoses, Institute for Medical Research, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Eva Ružić-Sabljić
- 2Laboratory for Diagnostics of Borreliosis and Leptospirosis, Institute for Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Snežana Tomanović
- 1Group for Medical Entomology, Centre of Excellence for Food and Vector Borne Zoonoses, Institute for Medical Research, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
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Veinović G, Ćakić S, Mihaljica D, Sukara R, Tomanović S. Comparison of growth and morphology of Borrelia burgdorferi sensu lato in BSK-H and BSK-II media stored for prolonged periods. APMIS 2020; 128:552-557. [PMID: 32794590 DOI: 10.1111/apm.13069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [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: 03/04/2020] [Accepted: 06/29/2020] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Barbour-Stoenner-Kelly II (BSK-II) and BSK-H media were used for cultivation and isolation of fastidious Borrelia species - the causative agents of Lyme borreliosis. Culture media have a limited shelf life and require adequate storage. Our goal was to assess how the growth of Borrelia would be affected by prolonged storage of media and inadequate storage conditions (BSK-H stored at +4 °C for 2.5 years and BSK-II stored at -20 °C for 11 years). Growth of different Borrelia afzelii, Borrelia garinii, Borrelia lusitaniae and Borrelia valaisiana strains was assessed during 2 weeks of incubation at 33 °C. Monitored parameters included cell count per mL, morphology and motility. The results of this study have shown weaker growth of borrelia strains in BSK-H at +4 °C (median final cell number of 1.5 × 106 /mL) than in BSK-II at -20 °C (median final cell number of 7.75 × 106 /mL) and in fresh BSK-H media (median final cell number of 8.95 × 106 /mL). Duration of storage of media had no impact on Borrelia morphology and motility. Our results indicate that temperature of -20 °C is optimal for long-term storage of medium, BSK-II stored for 11 years provided effective support to growth of Borrelia and may be employed for cultivation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gorana Veinović
- Group for Medical Entomology, Centre of Excellence for Food and Vector Borne Zoonoses, Institute for Medical Research, National Institute of Republic of Serbia, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Sanja Ćakić
- Group for Medical Entomology, Centre of Excellence for Food and Vector Borne Zoonoses, Institute for Medical Research, National Institute of Republic of Serbia, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Darko Mihaljica
- Group for Medical Entomology, Centre of Excellence for Food and Vector Borne Zoonoses, Institute for Medical Research, National Institute of Republic of Serbia, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Ratko Sukara
- Group for Medical Entomology, Centre of Excellence for Food and Vector Borne Zoonoses, Institute for Medical Research, National Institute of Republic of Serbia, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Snežana Tomanović
- Group for Medical Entomology, Centre of Excellence for Food and Vector Borne Zoonoses, Institute for Medical Research, National Institute of Republic of Serbia, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
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Ćakić S, Veinović G, Cerar T, Mihaljica D, Sukara R, Ružić-Sabljić E, Tomanović S. Diversity of Lyme borreliosis spirochetes isolated from ticks in Serbia. Med Vet Entomol 2019; 33:512-520. [PMID: 31173386 DOI: 10.1111/mve.12392] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [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: 11/27/2018] [Revised: 03/29/2019] [Accepted: 05/18/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Spirochetes from the Borrelia burgdorferi sensu lato (s.l.). (Spirochaetales: Spirochaetaceae) species complex, including the causative agents of Lyme borreliosis, have been isolated from ticks, vertebrate reservoirs and humans. Previous analyses based on direct molecular detection in ticks indicated a considerable diversity of B. burgdorferi s.l. complex in Serbia. The present study aimed (a) to isolate borrelia strains from Serbia; (b) to determine their genotypic characteristics; and (c) to establish a collection of viable B. burgdorferi s.l. strains for further biological, ecological and genetic studies. For the present study, 231 adult Ixodes ricinus (Ixodida: Ixodidae) ticks from 16 ecologically different localities in Serbia were individually processed to cultivate B. burgdorferi s.l. This led to the isolation of 36 strains. A hbb gene quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) based on melting temperature determination and ospA gene sequencing were used to genotype the isolated spirochetes. The species identified based on the hbb gene real-time PCR were: Borrelia lusitaniae (44.4%), Borrelia afzelii (36.1%), Borrelia garinii (13.9%) and Borrelia valaisiana (5.6%), whereas the ospA sequence analysis revealed the occurrence of Borrelia bavariensis. This is the first report of the isolation of B. lusitaniae, B. garinii, B. bavariensis and B. valaisiana strains in Serbia.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Ćakić
- Group for Medical Entomology, Centre of Excellence for Food and Vector Borne Zoonoses, Institute for Medical Research, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - G Veinović
- Group for Medical Entomology, Centre of Excellence for Food and Vector Borne Zoonoses, Institute for Medical Research, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - T Cerar
- Laboratory for Diagnostics of Borreliosis and Leptospirosis, Institute for Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - D Mihaljica
- Group for Medical Entomology, Centre of Excellence for Food and Vector Borne Zoonoses, Institute for Medical Research, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - R Sukara
- Group for Medical Entomology, Centre of Excellence for Food and Vector Borne Zoonoses, Institute for Medical Research, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - E Ružić-Sabljić
- Laboratory for Diagnostics of Borreliosis and Leptospirosis, Institute for Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - S Tomanović
- Group for Medical Entomology, Centre of Excellence for Food and Vector Borne Zoonoses, Institute for Medical Research, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
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Juwaid S, Sukara R, Penezić A, Mihaljica D, Veinović G, Kavallieratos NG, Ćirović D, Tomanović S. First evidence of tick-borne protozoan pathogens, Babesia sp. and Hepatozoon canis, in red foxes (vulpes vulpes) in Serbia. Acta Vet Hung 2019; 67:70-80. [PMID: 30922092 DOI: 10.1556/004.2019.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Tick-borne haematozoans cause severe diseases in domestic animals, and some of them have zoonotic potential. The results of previous studies in Europe point to the important role of foxes in natural endemic cycles of several tick-borne pathogens, including protozoa. The aim of the present research was to acquire information on the prevalence and distribution of tick-borne protozoan parasites among foxes in Serbia. Legally hunted foxes from 14 localities throughout Serbia were analysed. Spleen samples were collected from 129 animals and tested for the presence of Babesia spp. and Hepatozoon spp. by PCR. In total, 79/129 (61.2%) of the tested foxes were positive for H. canis, while the presence of two Babesia species was confirmed: B. vulpes (37/129, 28.7%) and B. canis (1/129, 0.8%). Coinfection with B. vulpes and H. canis was present in 26/129 (20.2%) foxes and one animal (1/129, 0.8%) was co-infected by B. canis and H. canis. The results of this study indicate the important role of foxes in the epizootiology of B. vulpes and H. canis in the Republic of Serbia and stress the need for further research to clarify all elements of the enzootic cycle of the detected pathogens, including other reservoirs, vectors, and transmission routes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Salem Juwaid
- 1 Faculty of Biology, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Ratko Sukara
- 2 Department of Medical Entomology, Center of Excellence for Food and Vector-borne Zoonoses, Institute for Medical Research, University of Belgrade, Dr Subotića 4, P.O. Box 39, 11129 Belgrade, Serbia
| | | | - Darko Mihaljica
- 2 Department of Medical Entomology, Center of Excellence for Food and Vector-borne Zoonoses, Institute for Medical Research, University of Belgrade, Dr Subotića 4, P.O. Box 39, 11129 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Gorana Veinović
- 2 Department of Medical Entomology, Center of Excellence for Food and Vector-borne Zoonoses, Institute for Medical Research, University of Belgrade, Dr Subotića 4, P.O. Box 39, 11129 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Nickolas G. Kavallieratos
- 3 Laboratory of Agricultural Zoology and Entomology, Faculty of Crop Science, Agricultural University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Duško Ćirović
- 1 Faculty of Biology, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Snežana Tomanović
- 2 Department of Medical Entomology, Center of Excellence for Food and Vector-borne Zoonoses, Institute for Medical Research, University of Belgrade, Dr Subotića 4, P.O. Box 39, 11129 Belgrade, Serbia
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Sukara R, Chochlakis D, Ćirović D, Penezić A, Mihaljica D, Ćakić S, Valčić M, Tselentis Y, Psaroulaki A, Tomanović S. Golden jackals (Canis aureus) as hosts for ticks and tick-borne pathogens in Serbia. Ticks Tick Borne Dis 2018; 9:1090-1097. [PMID: 29678402 DOI: 10.1016/j.ttbdis.2018.04.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [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: 08/22/2017] [Revised: 03/27/2018] [Accepted: 04/06/2018] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
The golden jackal (Canis aureus) is a medium-sized canid species native to Europe. This species is characterized by rapid large-scale expansion. A similar trend is also observed in Serbia, where the species is now distributed in more than a half of the territory. Although jackals prefer habitats in human-dominated landscapes, these animals have not been studied well enough from an eco-epidemiological point of view, and little is known about their potential for carrying zoonotic pathogens. In a study conducted during a three-year period (01/2010-02/2013), a total of 216 hunted or road-killed golden jackals were collected from 10 localities in Serbia. Ticks, when present, were removed, and after necropsy, spleen samples were collected from each animal. All tick and spleen samples were tested for the DNA of bacterial and protozoan tick-borne pathogens (Borrelia species, Bartonella species, Rickettsia species, Anaplasma species, Coxiella burnetii, Francisella species and Babesia species) by multiplex real-time PCR, conventional PCR and sequencing analyses. The DNA of Babesia canis was detected in nine out of 216 (4.2%) spleen samples, and two samples (0.9%) tested positive for Anaplasma phagocytophilum. In 118 ticks collected from jackals, the DNA of two Babesia species (Ba. canis and Ba. microti), three Borrelia species (Bo. garinii, Bo. valaisiana, and Bo. lusitaniae) and A. marginale was detected. From the aspect of public health surveillance, the potential role of the golden jackal in the maintenance of vector-borne zoonotic pathogens in Serbia must be considered, and further eco-epidemiological studies should be performed to determine the precise role of this animal species in zoonotic disease transmission cycles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ratko Sukara
- Department for Medical Entomology, Center of Excellence for Food and Vector-Borne Zoonoses, Institute for Medical Research, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Dimosthenis Chochlakis
- Department of Clinical Microbiology and Microbial Pathogenesis, School of Medicine, University of Crete, Voutes - Staurakia, 71110, Heraklion, Crete, Greece
| | - Duško Ćirović
- Faculty of Biology, University of Belgrade, Studentski trg 16, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Aleksandra Penezić
- Faculty of Biology, University of Belgrade, Studentski trg 16, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Darko Mihaljica
- Department for Medical Entomology, Center of Excellence for Food and Vector-Borne Zoonoses, Institute for Medical Research, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Sanja Ćakić
- Department for Medical Entomology, Center of Excellence for Food and Vector-Borne Zoonoses, Institute for Medical Research, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Miroslav Valčić
- Infectious Animals Diseases and Diseases of Bees, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Bulevar oslobodjenja 18, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Yannis Tselentis
- Department of Clinical Microbiology and Microbial Pathogenesis, School of Medicine, University of Crete, Voutes - Staurakia, 71110, Heraklion, Crete, Greece
| | - Anna Psaroulaki
- Department of Clinical Microbiology and Microbial Pathogenesis, School of Medicine, University of Crete, Voutes - Staurakia, 71110, Heraklion, Crete, Greece
| | - Snežana Tomanović
- Department for Medical Entomology, Center of Excellence for Food and Vector-Borne Zoonoses, Institute for Medical Research, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia.
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10
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Mihaljica D, Marković D, Radulović Ž, Mulenga A, Ćakić S, Sukara R, Milanović Z, Tomanović S. Assessment of using recombinant Ixodes ricinus AV422 saliva protein for confirmation of tick bites in hunting dogs as naturally infested hosts. Exp Appl Acarol 2017; 72:429-437. [PMID: 28840367 DOI: 10.1007/s10493-017-0170-6] [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: 05/03/2017] [Accepted: 08/14/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Due to the recorded spreading of ticks in past years, a higher incidence of tick-borne diseases (TBDs) can be expected in the future in endemic areas, but can also pose an emerging public health concern in areas where they have not yet been recognized. Assessment of the exposure of vulnerable hosts to ticks would be a very helpful tool for TBD epidemiological studies, as well as for their proper managing. To confirm previous tick bites, the method of choice is detection of antibodies in host serum as markers developed against injected tick saliva proteins during feeding. We recently showed that the recombinant form of Ixodes ricinus AV422 saliva protein (rIrAV422) can serve for detection of markers in experimentally infested rats. Here we examine whether it can be used in the same manner in naturally exposed hosts. We chose hunting dogs as good sentinel animals. The study group consisted of 15 dogs that varied in breed, age, sex, previous tick infestation history and repellent treatment. Western blot analysis with rIrAV422 as an antigen confirmed the presence of tick bite markers in all analysed dogs. For some of the dogs, their previous tick infestation history was unclear, which emphasizes the usefulness of rIrAV422 for revealing it. Since hunting dogs are naturally infested with different ticks, the potential of rIrAV422 in assessment of general exposure to ticks is highlighted. Use of rIrAV422 can also be helpful in veterinary practice and research as a tool for validation of the efficiency of tick repellent products.
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Affiliation(s)
- Darko Mihaljica
- Department of Medical Entomology, Centre of Excellence for Food and Vector-Borne Zoonoses, Institute for Medical Research, University of Belgrade, Dr Subotića 4, PO Box 102, 11129, Belgrade, Serbia.
| | - Dragana Marković
- Department of Immunology, Institute for Medical Research, University of Belgrade, Dr Subotića 4, PO Box 102, 11129, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Željko Radulović
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA
| | - Albert Mulenga
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA
| | - Sanja Ćakić
- Department of Medical Entomology, Centre of Excellence for Food and Vector-Borne Zoonoses, Institute for Medical Research, University of Belgrade, Dr Subotića 4, PO Box 102, 11129, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Ratko Sukara
- Department of Medical Entomology, Centre of Excellence for Food and Vector-Borne Zoonoses, Institute for Medical Research, University of Belgrade, Dr Subotića 4, PO Box 102, 11129, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Zorana Milanović
- Department of Pathophysiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Belgrade, Bulevar oslobođenja 18, 11000, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Snežana Tomanović
- Department of Medical Entomology, Centre of Excellence for Food and Vector-Borne Zoonoses, Institute for Medical Research, University of Belgrade, Dr Subotića 4, PO Box 102, 11129, Belgrade, Serbia
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11
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Burazerović J, Ćakić S, Mihaljica D, Sukara R, Ćirović D, Tomanović S. Ticks (Acari: Argasidae, Ixodidae) parasitizing bats in the central Balkans. Exp Appl Acarol 2015; 66:281-91. [PMID: 25717009 DOI: 10.1007/s10493-015-9891-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2014] [Accepted: 02/17/2015] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
Ticks parasitizing bats have been largely understudied, especially in the central part of the Balkan Peninsula, where the last data from the field research date from almost 25 years ago. Bats are hosts to a large number of ectoparasites, including ticks, which can act as vectors of zoonotic agents. For this reason, it is important to identify the distribution of ticks and their relationship to different hosts, including wild animals, bats in particular. The present research was conducted at 16 localities throughout Serbia, Montenegro, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia (FYROM). We examined 475 individuals of bats belonging to 13 species. A total of three tick species were identified, I. simplex being the most numerous and widespread, followed by I. vespertilionis and A. vespertilionis. To the best of our knowledge, the presented data include the first records of I. simplex in Serbia and Montenegro, I. vespertilionis for Montenegro and A. vespertilionis in FYROM. Also, we identify a new possible host/parasite association between I. simplex and Rhinolophus euryale.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Burazerović
- Chair of Animal Ecology and Zoogeography, Faculty of Biology, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
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12
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Tomanović S, Ćakić S, Radulović Ž, Mihaljica D, Sukara R, Milutinović M, Ružić-Sabljić E. Strain diversity of Borrelia burgdorferi sensu lato in Serbia. Parasit Vectors 2014. [PMCID: PMC4092298 DOI: 10.1186/1756-3305-7-s1-o25] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
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13
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Cakic S, Mojsilovic M, Mihaljica D, Milutinovic M, Petrovic A, Tomanovic S. Molecular characterization of COI gene of Ixodes ricinus (Linnaeus, 1758) from Serbia. ARCH BIOL SCI 2014. [DOI: 10.2298/abs1402683c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
The Ixodes ricinus tick is common in the central part of the Balkan
Peninsula. It is a vector of pathogenic agents causing diseases in humans and
animals. Little is known about the genetic structure of I. ricinus in this
region. We have investigated intraspecific variability of the COI gene among
I. ricinus ticks collected from different regions of Serbia, and the
correlation between the various types of habitat and genetic variability of
ticks. The obtained COI gene sequences are the first barcoding sequences of
I. ricinus ticks collected at localities in Serbia. Intraspecific variability
of these COI gene sequences was very low, and there was no correlation
between the various types of habitat and genetic variability of ticks.
Samples from isolated localities (canyon/gorge) showed no genetic
differentiations from the majority of samples from open areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sanja Cakic
- Institute for Medical Research, Center of Excellence for Toxoplasmosis and Medical Entomology, Laboratory for Medical Entomology, Department of Parasitology, Belgrade
| | | | - D. Mihaljica
- Institute for Medical Research, Center of Excellence for Toxoplasmosis and Medical Entomology, Laboratory for Medical Entomology, Department of Parasitology, Belgrade
| | - Marija Milutinovic
- Institute for Medical Research, Center of Excellence for Toxoplasmosis and Medical Entomology, Laboratory for Medical Entomology, Department of Parasitology, Belgrade
| | - A. Petrovic
- Institute of Zoology, Faculty of Biology, Belgrade
| | - Snezana Tomanovic
- Institute for Medical Research, Center of Excellence for Toxoplasmosis and Medical Entomology, Laboratory for Medical Entomology, Department of Parasitology, Belgrade
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14
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Tomanović S, Chochlakis D, Radulović Z, Milutinović M, Cakić S, Mihaljica D, Tselentis Y, Psaroulaki A. Analysis of pathogen co-occurrence in host-seeking adult hard ticks from Serbia. Exp Appl Acarol 2013; 59:367-376. [PMID: 22773070 DOI: 10.1007/s10493-012-9597-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2012] [Accepted: 06/25/2012] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
Past studies in Serbia have reported concurrent infections of Ixodes ricinus ticks with Borrelia burgdorferi sensu lato genospecies, Anaplasma phagocytophilum and Francisella tularensis. As a step forward, this investigation included a broader range of microorganisms and five most common and abundant tick species in Serbia. Five tick species were identified (Dermacentor marginatus, D. reticulatus, Haemaphysalis punctata, H. concinna and I. ricinus) and analyzed for the presence of seven pathogens. Anaplasma ovis, A. phagocytophilum, Babesia canis, B. burgdorferi s.l., Coxiella burnetii, Rickettsia helvetica and R. monacensis were detected. Sequencing of samples positive for F. tularensis revealed the presence of Francisella-like endosymbionts. No Bartonella spp. DNA was amplified. Concurrent infections were present in three tick species (D. reticulatus, H. concinna and I. ricinus). The rate of co-infections was highest in I. ricinus (20/27), while this tick species harbored the broadest range of co-infection combinations, with dual, triple and a quadruple infection(s) being detected.
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Affiliation(s)
- Snežana Tomanović
- Laboratory for Medical Entomology, Department for Parasitology, Center of Exellence for Toxoplasmosis and Medical Entomology, Institute for Medical Research, University of Belgrade, Dr. Subotića 4, POB 102, 11129, Belgrade, Serbia.
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15
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Radulović Z, Milutinović M, Tomanović S, Mihaljica D, Cakić S, Stamenković-Radak M, Andelković M. Seasonal and spatial occurrence of glycerol-3-phosphate dehydrogenase variability in Ixodes ricinus (Acari: Ixodidae) populations. J Med Entomol 2012; 49:497-503. [PMID: 22679856 DOI: 10.1603/me11101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
Previous results indicate that glycerol-3-phosphate dehydrogenase variability represents the adaptation of Ixodes ricinus L. (Acari: Ixodidae) to fluctuations of environmental conditions, particularly to temperature. Analysis of crucial polymorphisms in I. ricinus Gpdh gene was done by the restriction method, and three different haplotypes were obtained (GPDH441 1, GPDH441 2, and GPDH441 3), corresponding to GPDH alleles detected by allozyme electrophoresis. Differences in GPDH441 haplotype and genotype frequencies were found between samples from open and forest habitats. Significant seasonal variations of GPDH441 haplotype and genotype frequencies were detected in samples from the open habitats. No seasonal variations were observed at forest localities, probably because of the less pronounced amplitude of environmental factors. The possible role of host availability was discussed as an important factor that affects seasonal dynamics and genetic composition of tick populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Z Radulović
- Laboratory for Medical Entomology, Centre of Excellence for Toxoplasmosis and Medical Entomology, Institute for Medical Research, University of Belgrade, Dr. Subotića 4, POB 39, 11129 Belgrade 102, Serbia.
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