1
|
Gallina L, Facile V, Roda N, Sabetti MC, Terrusi A, Urbani L, Magliocca M, Vasylyeva K, Dondi F, Balboni A, Battilani M. Molecular investigation and genetic characterization of feline leukemia virus (FeLV) in cats referred to a veterinary teaching hospital in Northern Italy. Vet Res Commun 2024:10.1007/s11259-024-10380-6. [PMID: 38644457 DOI: 10.1007/s11259-024-10380-6] [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] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2024] [Accepted: 04/13/2024] [Indexed: 04/23/2024]
Abstract
Feline leukemia virus (FeLV) is responsible for feline leukemia syndrome in domestic cats. The prevention and control of disease caused by FeLV are primarily based on vaccination and identification and isolation of infected subjects. Antigen diagnostic methods, which are the most widely used in clinical practices, can be associated to molecular tests to characterize the FeLV detected. In this study, a quantitative SYBR Green Real-Time PCR (qPCR) assay was used to detect FeLV proviral DNA in blood samples from antigen positive cats referred to a veterinary teaching hospital in Northern Italy in 2018-2021. To genetically characterize the identified viruses, a portion of the viral envelope (env) gene was amplified using six different end-point PCRs and sequenced. Twenty-two of 26 (84.6%) cats included in the study tested positive by qPCR assay. This suggests a high performance of the qPCR adopted but further studies are required to investigate the cause of discordant results between the antigen test and qPCR in four cats. From env gene analysis, 15/22 qPCR-positive cats were infected by FeLV subtype A and 5/15 shown coinfection with subtype B.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Laura Gallina
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum-University of Bologna, Via Tolara di Sopra 50, Ozzano Emilia, Bologna, 40064, Italy
| | - Veronica Facile
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum-University of Bologna, Via Tolara di Sopra 50, Ozzano Emilia, Bologna, 40064, Italy
| | - Nicola Roda
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum-University of Bologna, Via Tolara di Sopra 50, Ozzano Emilia, Bologna, 40064, Italy
| | - Maria Chiara Sabetti
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Parma, Strada del Taglio 10, Parma, 43126, Italy
| | - Alessia Terrusi
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum-University of Bologna, Via Tolara di Sopra 50, Ozzano Emilia, Bologna, 40064, Italy
| | - Lorenza Urbani
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum-University of Bologna, Via Tolara di Sopra 50, Ozzano Emilia, Bologna, 40064, Italy
| | - Martina Magliocca
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum-University of Bologna, Via Tolara di Sopra 50, Ozzano Emilia, Bologna, 40064, Italy
| | - Kateryna Vasylyeva
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum-University of Bologna, Via Tolara di Sopra 50, Ozzano Emilia, Bologna, 40064, Italy
| | - Francesco Dondi
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum-University of Bologna, Via Tolara di Sopra 50, Ozzano Emilia, Bologna, 40064, Italy
| | - Andrea Balboni
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum-University of Bologna, Via Tolara di Sopra 50, Ozzano Emilia, Bologna, 40064, Italy.
| | - Mara Battilani
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum-University of Bologna, Via Tolara di Sopra 50, Ozzano Emilia, Bologna, 40064, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Mannini A, Ellero N, Urbani L, Balboni A, Imposimato I, Battilani M, Gialletti R, Freccero F. Medical management and positive outcome after prolonged recumbency in a case of equine herpesvirus myeloencephalopathy. J Equine Vet Sci 2024; 136:105063. [PMID: 38608970 DOI: 10.1016/j.jevs.2024.105063] [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: 01/19/2024] [Revised: 03/03/2024] [Accepted: 04/04/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024]
Abstract
A 17-year-old mare presenting with acute fever, weakness and bladder dysfunction was diagnosed with equine herpesvirus myeloencephalopathy (EHM). The mare become transiently recumbent, underwent parenteral fluid therapy, plasma infusion, steroidal/nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (SAID/NSAIDs) and bladder catheterization. After 10 days the mare was hospitalized. Neurological evaluation revealed ataxia and proprioceptive deficits mainly in the hind limbs. The mare was able to stand but unable to rise from recumbency or walk. Secondary complications included Escherichia coli cystitis, corneal ulcers and pressure sores. A full-body support sling was used for 21 days. Medical treatment included systemic antimicrobials, NSAIDs, gradual discontinuation of SAIDs, parenteral fluid therapy and bladder lavage. The mare tested positive for Varicellovirus equidalpha 1 (EHV-1) DNA in nasal swab and blood samples on day 13 and in urine samples on days 13 and 25 after the onset of fever. Neurological signs improved over a period of 34 days and the mare was discharged with mild hind limb weakness/ataxia. Secondary complications resolved within 2 weeks. At the eight-month follow-up, marked improvement in locomotory function had been achieved.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- A Mannini
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences (DIMEVET), University of Bologna, Via Tolara di Sopra 50, 40064 Ozzano dell'Emilia, Bologna, Italy
| | - N Ellero
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences (DIMEVET), University of Bologna, Via Tolara di Sopra 50, 40064 Ozzano dell'Emilia, Bologna, Italy.
| | - L Urbani
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences (DIMEVET), University of Bologna, Via Tolara di Sopra 50, 40064 Ozzano dell'Emilia, Bologna, Italy
| | - A Balboni
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences (DIMEVET), University of Bologna, Via Tolara di Sopra 50, 40064 Ozzano dell'Emilia, Bologna, Italy
| | - I Imposimato
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences (DIMEVET), University of Bologna, Via Tolara di Sopra 50, 40064 Ozzano dell'Emilia, Bologna, Italy
| | - M Battilani
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences (DIMEVET), University of Bologna, Via Tolara di Sopra 50, 40064 Ozzano dell'Emilia, Bologna, Italy
| | - R Gialletti
- Department of Veterinary Science, University of Parma, Strada del Taglio 10, 43126 Parma, Italy
| | - F Freccero
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences (DIMEVET), University of Bologna, Via Tolara di Sopra 50, 40064 Ozzano dell'Emilia, Bologna, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Balboni A, Franzo G, Bano L, Urbani L, Segatore S, Rizzardi A, Cordioli B, Cornaggia M, Terrusi A, Vasylyeva K, Dondi F, Battilani M. No viable bacterial communities reside in the urinary bladder of cats with feline idiopathic cystitis. Res Vet Sci 2024; 168:105137. [PMID: 38181480 DOI: 10.1016/j.rvsc.2024.105137] [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: 05/24/2023] [Revised: 12/22/2023] [Accepted: 01/01/2024] [Indexed: 01/07/2024]
Abstract
Urinary microbial diversities have been reported in humans according to sex, age and clinical status, including painful bladder syndrome/interstitial cystitis (PBS/IC). To date, the role of the urinary microbiome in the pathogenesis of PBS/IC is debated. Feline idiopathic cystitis (FIC) is a chronic lower urinary tract disorder affecting cats with similarities to PBS/IC in women and represents an important problem in veterinary medicine as its aetiology is currently unknown. In this study, the presence of a bacterial community residing in the urinary bladder of cats with a diagnosis of FIC was investigated. Nineteen cats with clinical signs and history of FIC and without growing bacteria in standard urine culture were included and urine collected with ultrasound-guided cystocentesis. Bacterial community was investigated using a culture-dependent approach consisted of expanded quantitative urine culture techniques and a culture-independent approach consisted of 16S rRNA NGS. Several methodological practices were adopted to both avoid and detect any contamination or bias introduced by means of urine collection and processing which could be relevant due to the low microbial biomass environment of the bladder and urinary tract, including negative controls analysis. All the cats included showed no growing bacteria in the urine analysed. Although few reads were originated using 16S rRNA NGS, a comparable pattern was observed between urine samples and negative controls, and no taxa were confidently classified as non-contaminant. The results obtained suggest the absence of viable bacteria and of bacterial DNA of urinary origin in the urinary bladder of cats with FIC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Balboni
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum-University of Bologna, Via Tolara di Sopra 50, 40064, Ozzano Emilia, Bologna, Italy
| | - Giovanni Franzo
- Department of Animal Medicine, Production and Health, University of Padova, Viale dell'Università 16, 35020, Legnaro, Padova, Italy
| | - Luca Bano
- Diagnostic and Microbiology Laboratory, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale delle Venezie, Vicolo Mazzini 4, 31020, Villorba, Treviso, Italy
| | - Lorenza Urbani
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum-University of Bologna, Via Tolara di Sopra 50, 40064, Ozzano Emilia, Bologna, Italy
| | - Sofia Segatore
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum-University of Bologna, Via Tolara di Sopra 50, 40064, Ozzano Emilia, Bologna, Italy
| | - Alessia Rizzardi
- Diagnostic and Microbiology Laboratory, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale delle Venezie, Vicolo Mazzini 4, 31020, Villorba, Treviso, Italy
| | - Benedetta Cordioli
- Diagnostic and Microbiology Laboratory, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale delle Venezie, Vicolo Mazzini 4, 31020, Villorba, Treviso, Italy
| | - Matteo Cornaggia
- Diagnostic and Microbiology Laboratory, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale delle Venezie, Vicolo Mazzini 4, 31020, Villorba, Treviso, Italy
| | - Alessia Terrusi
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum-University of Bologna, Via Tolara di Sopra 50, 40064, Ozzano Emilia, Bologna, Italy
| | - Kateryna Vasylyeva
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum-University of Bologna, Via Tolara di Sopra 50, 40064, Ozzano Emilia, Bologna, Italy
| | - Francesco Dondi
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum-University of Bologna, Via Tolara di Sopra 50, 40064, Ozzano Emilia, Bologna, Italy.
| | - Mara Battilani
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum-University of Bologna, Via Tolara di Sopra 50, 40064, Ozzano Emilia, Bologna, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Balboni A, D'Incau M, Zamagni S, Lucchese L, Mazzotta E, Marchione S, Battilani M, Natale A. Identification of the most effective serovars to be included in the MAT antigen panel to optimize the serodiagnosis of Leptospira infection in Northern Italy. Vet Res Commun 2023; 47:2185-2192. [PMID: 36929155 DOI: 10.1007/s11259-023-10103-3] [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: 01/09/2023] [Accepted: 03/10/2023] [Indexed: 03/18/2023]
Abstract
The microscopic agglutination test (MAT) assay is adopted as a world-wide reference test for the serodiagnosis of leptospirosis in humans and animals. One of the main limitations of MAT is the lack of sensitivity and serodiagnostic antigens should be periodically updated with locally circulating serovars in order to optimise its performance. The aim of this study was to determine the need to implement the antigen panel currently adopted in Northern Italy for the diagnosis of Leptospira infection in dogs. For this purpose, a group of 288 dogs with and without clinical signs potentially consistent with Leptospira infection or found to have an increased C-reactive protein (CRP) serum concentration, sampled in 2013-2016 in Northern Italy, were tested by MAT comparing the results obtained with a nine antigens panel (Australis-Bratislava, Ballum-Ballum, Canicola-Canicola, Grippotyphosa-Grippotyphosa, Icterohaemorrhagiae-Copenhageni, Icterohaemorrhagiae-Icterohaemorrhagiae, Sejroe-Hardjo, Pomona-Pomona and Tarassovi-Tarassovi serovars) routinely adopted and a panel expanded to 27 antigens. In general, the antigen panel currently adopted in Northern Italy for the routine MAT assay resulted adequate for the diagnosis of Leptospira infection in dogs. The main exception concerns the Sejroe serogroup, with the Saxkoebing and Sejroe serovars that were more effective than Hardjo for diagnosis in dogs and whose inclusion in the antigen panel is recommended. Among other antigens evaluated in this study, Cynopteri serovar was detected with high frequency but its pathogenic role in dogs and as public health threat deserve further investigation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Balboni
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum-University of Bologna, Ozzano Emilia, Bologna, 40064, Italy
| | - Mario D'Incau
- Italian Reference Centre for Animal Leptospirosis, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Lombardia e dell'Emilia Romagna "Bruno Ubertini", Brescia, 25121, Italy
| | - Silvia Zamagni
- Veterinary Practitioner at the Centro Veterinario Romagnolo, Coriano, Rimini, 47853, Italy
| | - Laura Lucchese
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale delle Venezie, Viale dell'Università, Legnaro, Padova, 35020, Italy
| | - Elisa Mazzotta
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale delle Venezie, Viale dell'Università, Legnaro, Padova, 35020, Italy
| | - Silvia Marchione
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale delle Venezie, Viale dell'Università, Legnaro, Padova, 35020, Italy
| | - Mara Battilani
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum-University of Bologna, Ozzano Emilia, Bologna, 40064, Italy
| | - Alda Natale
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale delle Venezie, Viale dell'Università, Legnaro, Padova, 35020, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Urbani L, Tirolo A, Balboni A, Troia R, Dondi F, Battilani M. Concomitant Infections With Canine Parvovirus Type 2 and Intracellular Tick-Borne Pathogens in Two Puppy Dogs. Front Vet Sci 2022; 9:964177. [PMID: 35928114 PMCID: PMC9343697 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2022.964177] [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] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2022] [Accepted: 06/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
In this report the concomitant infection with canine parvovirus type 2 (CPV-2), Hepatozoon canis and Ehrlichia canis in two puppy dogs from Southern Italy is described. Dogs were referred to a veterinary university hospital for the acute onset of lethargy and gastrointestinal signs. A complete clinical and clinicopathological evaluation was carried out and the multiple infection was confirmed by microscopic detection of inclusion bodies in peripheral blood smear, rapid immunoenzymatic tests, indirect fluorescent antibody tests, and molecular assays. Sequence analysis revealed that the CPV-2 identified belonged to the 2c variant and had amino acid residues in the predicted VP2 protein typical of “Asian-like” strains widespread in Asia and occasionally reported in Romania, Nigeria and Italy, particularly in the region of Sicily. Numerous monocytes were infected by both H. canis gamonts and E. canis morulae, suggesting that this co-infection is not accidental and that E. canis preferably infects those cells parasitized by H. canis. The clinical presentation of these animals was severe but supportive cares associated with early etiological therapy allowed a good prognosis. Movement of puppies from geographic areas where vector-borne pathogens are endemic must be carefully evaluated and core vaccinations and ectoparasite prevention treatments must be rigorously adopted.
Collapse
|
6
|
Balboni A, Terrusi A, Urbani L, Troia R, Stefanelli SAM, Giunti M, Battilani M. Canine circovirus and Canine adenovirus type 1 and 2 in dogs with parvoviral enteritis. Vet Res Commun 2021; 46:223-232. [PMID: 34671910 PMCID: PMC8528481 DOI: 10.1007/s11259-021-09850-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [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: 06/10/2021] [Accepted: 10/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Canine parvovirus type 2 (CPV-2) is one of the most relevant pathogens associated with enteritis in dogs and is frequently reported in association with the detection of other pathogens in faeces. In this study the concomitant presence of Canine circovirus (CanineCV) and Canine adenovirus (CAdV) DNA in faecal or intestine samples of 95 dogs with parvovirus enteritis sampled in Italy (1995–2017) was investigated and the viruses identified were genetically characterised. Potential correlations with the antigenic variant of CPV-2 and with signalment data and outcome were evaluated. Twenty-eight of 95 (29.5%) CPV-2 infected dogs tested positive to other viruses: 7/28 were also positive to CanineCV, 1/28 to CAdV-1, 18/28 to CAdV-2, 1/28 to CanineCV and CAdV-2, and 1/28 to CAdV-1 and CAdV-2. The frequency of CAdV DNA detection and coinfections was significantly higher in purebred dogs compared to mixed breed ones (P = 0.002 and 0.009, respectively). The presence of coinfection was not associated with any other relevant data available, including CPV-2 variant and final outcome. The detection of CanineCV in a dog sampled in 2009 allowed to backdating its circulation in dogs. The eight CanineCV completely sequenced were phylogenetically related to the CanineCV identified in dogs, wolves and a badger from Europe, USA, Argentina and China. Nine CAdV were partially sequenced and phylogenetic analysis showed a separate branch for the oldest CAdV-2 identified (1995). From the results obtained in this study population, CanineCV and CAdV coinfections in dogs with parvoviral enteritis did not result in more severe disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Balboni
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum - University of Bologna, Ozzano dell'Emilia (BO), Italy
| | - Alessia Terrusi
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum - University of Bologna, Ozzano dell'Emilia (BO), Italy
| | - Lorenza Urbani
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum - University of Bologna, Ozzano dell'Emilia (BO), Italy
| | - Roberta Troia
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum - University of Bologna, Ozzano dell'Emilia (BO), Italy
| | - Silvia A M Stefanelli
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum - University of Bologna, Ozzano dell'Emilia (BO), Italy
| | - Massimo Giunti
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum - University of Bologna, Ozzano dell'Emilia (BO), Italy
| | - Mara Battilani
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum - University of Bologna, Ozzano dell'Emilia (BO), Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Balboni A, Savini F, Scagliarini A, Berti E, Naldi M, Urbani L, Fontana MC, Carra E, Gibelli LRM, Gobbo F, Bologna E, Zambelli D, Ceccherelli R, Battilani M. Natural distemper infection in stone martens (Martes foina): From infection to neutralizing antibodies. Res Vet Sci 2021; 138:196-200. [PMID: 34171543 DOI: 10.1016/j.rvsc.2021.06.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [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: 03/18/2021] [Revised: 06/03/2021] [Accepted: 06/15/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
We report an outbreak of canine distemper virus (CDV) among stone martens (Martes foina) in Italy. After being rescued in Northern Italy between April and June 2018, six subjects were kept in a wildlife and exotic animal rescue center in Bologna province. Subjects have been monitored for 15 months in captivity. Within this time-lapse, two subjects died, while among the remaining four, only one showed clinical symptoms referable to distemper. Surviving subjects have been regularly tested for CDV by means of reverse transcriptase-PCR from conjunctival and oropharyngeal swabs for eleven months. The identified viruses belonged to the Wildlife-Europe CDV genetic subgroup. Neutralizing antibodies were detected at the end of the eleven months, when all subjects tested reverse transcriptase-PCR negative. Our findings confirm the circulation of the Wildlife-Europe CDV genetic subgroup (Europe 1/South America 1 lineage) within the Italian wildlife, and improve knowledge on viral infection in stone martens.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Balboni
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum-University of Bologna, Via Tolara di Sopra 50, Ozzano Emilia, BO 40064, Italy.
| | - Federica Savini
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum-University of Bologna, Via Tolara di Sopra 50, Ozzano Emilia, BO 40064, Italy.
| | - Alessandra Scagliarini
- Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine, Alma Mater Studiorum-University of Bologna, Via Massarenti 9, Bologna 40138, Italy.
| | - Elisa Berti
- Centro Tutela e Ricerca Fauna Esotica e Selvatica Monte Adone ODV, Via Brento 9, Sasso Marconi, BO 40037, Italy.
| | - Marzia Naldi
- Centro Tutela e Ricerca Fauna Esotica e Selvatica Monte Adone ODV, Via Brento 9, Sasso Marconi, BO 40037, Italy.
| | - Lorenza Urbani
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum-University of Bologna, Via Tolara di Sopra 50, Ozzano Emilia, BO 40064, Italy.
| | - Maria Cristina Fontana
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Lombardia ed Emilia Romagna "B. Ubertini" (IZSLER), Via Antonio Bianchi 9, Brescia 25124, Italy.
| | - Elena Carra
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Lombardia ed Emilia Romagna "B. Ubertini" (IZSLER), Via Antonio Bianchi 9, Brescia 25124, Italy.
| | - Lucia Rita Maria Gibelli
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Lombardia ed Emilia Romagna "B. Ubertini" (IZSLER), Via Antonio Bianchi 9, Brescia 25124, Italy.
| | - Federica Gobbo
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale delle Venezie (IZSVe), viale Dell'Università 10, Legnaro, PD 35020, Italy.
| | - Emanuela Bologna
- Centro Tutela e Ricerca Fauna Esotica e Selvatica Monte Adone ODV, Via Brento 9, Sasso Marconi, BO 40037, Italy.
| | - Donatella Zambelli
- Centro Tutela e Ricerca Fauna Esotica e Selvatica Monte Adone ODV, Via Brento 9, Sasso Marconi, BO 40037, Italy.
| | - Renato Ceccherelli
- Centro Tutela e Ricerca Fauna Esotica e Selvatica Monte Adone ODV, Via Brento 9, Sasso Marconi, BO 40037, Italy.
| | - Mara Battilani
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum-University of Bologna, Via Tolara di Sopra 50, Ozzano Emilia, BO 40064, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Balboni A, Niculae M, Di Vito S, Urbani L, Terrusi A, Muresan C, Battilani M. The detection of canine parvovirus type 2c of Asian origin in dogs in Romania evidenced its progressive worldwide diffusion. BMC Vet Res 2021; 17:206. [PMID: 34090429 PMCID: PMC8180150 DOI: 10.1186/s12917-021-02918-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [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: 04/01/2021] [Accepted: 05/17/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Canine parvovirus (CPV) is one of the most important pathogens of dogs. Despite vaccination, CPV infections are still ubiquitous in dogs, and the three antigenic variants 2a, 2b and 2c are variously distributed in the canine population worldwide. To date, no information is available on CPV variants circulating in some European countries. The aim of this study was to genetically characterise the CPV detected in ten dogs with clinical signs of acute gastroenteritis in Romania. The presence of Carnivore protoparvovirus 1 DNA was investigated in faecal samples using an end-point PCR targeting the complete VP2 gene and positive amplicons were sequenced and analysed. Results All ten dogs with acute gastroenteritis tested positive to Carnivore protoparvovirus 1 DNA in faecal samples. The identified viruses belonged to CPV-2c type, showed identical sequences of the VP2 gene and were characterised by distinctive amino acid residues in the deduced VP2 protein: 5-glicine (5Gly), 267-tirosine (267Tyr), 324-isoleucine (324Ile) and 370-arginine (370Arg). These distinctive amino acid residues have already been reported in CPV-2c widespread in Asia and occasionally detected in Italy and Nigeria. Conclusions Since CPV-2c with VP2 amino acid residues 5Gly, 267Tyr, 324Ile and 370Arg were never reported before 2013, it can be assumed that this virus is progressively expanding its spread in the world dog population. This study adds new data about the presence of this new virus in Europe and underline worrying questions about its potential impact on the health of the canine population. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12917-021-02918-6.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Balboni
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum - University of Bologna, Via Tolara di Sopra 50, 40064, Ozzano dell'Emilia, Bologna, Italy
| | - Mihaela Niculae
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Division of Infectious Diseases, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Serena Di Vito
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Division of Infectious Diseases, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Lorenza Urbani
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum - University of Bologna, Via Tolara di Sopra 50, 40064, Ozzano dell'Emilia, Bologna, Italy
| | - Alessia Terrusi
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum - University of Bologna, Via Tolara di Sopra 50, 40064, Ozzano dell'Emilia, Bologna, Italy
| | - Cosmin Muresan
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Division of Infectious Diseases, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Mara Battilani
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum - University of Bologna, Via Tolara di Sopra 50, 40064, Ozzano dell'Emilia, Bologna, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Balboni A, Urbani L, Morini M, Dondi F, Battilani M. Molecular detection of Anaplasma phagocytophilum in hair and spleen of cats revealed a possible underestimation of feline vector-borne pathogens. Res Vet Sci 2021; 137:144-149. [PMID: 33975193 DOI: 10.1016/j.rvsc.2021.05.003] [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: 02/22/2021] [Revised: 04/22/2021] [Accepted: 05/03/2021] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
Feline Vector-Borne Diseases show increased global prevalence and some Anaplasma and Ehrlichia species may pose a risk to human health. The diagnosis of Anaplasma and Ehrlichia species infection in cats is achieved by the combined use of different methods as cytologic examination evidencing intracytoplasmic morulae, serologic tests and molecular assays. The peripheral whole blood is considered the sample of choice for Anaplasma and Ehrlichia species DNA detection in cats, but false negative results are reported leading to underestimation of infection prevalence. In order to have a more accurate assessment of the spread of feline vector-borne pathogens, the presence of Anaplasma spp. and Ehrlichia spp. DNA in 37 owner and shelter cats subjected to necropsy were prospectively investigated by testing in end-point PCR spleen, bone marrow, blood clot and hair samples. The bacteria identified were genetically characterised. Three shelter cats tested positive for A. phagocytophilum DNA in spleen (one cat) or in hair samples (two cats). None of the cats tested positive in bone marrow and blood samples. From the results obtained, it can be assumed that the use of spleen or hair samples could allow a more reliable detection of A. phagocytophilum DNA in cats with blood tested negative. In the phylogeny constructed with a fragment of the heat shock (groEL) gene nucleotide sequences, all the identified A. phagocytophilum clustered with bacteria infecting a wide range of hosts, including humans, showing a potential zoonotic role.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Balboni
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum-University of Bologna, Via Tolara di Sopra 50, 40064, Ozzano Emilia (BO), Italy.
| | - Lorenza Urbani
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum-University of Bologna, Via Tolara di Sopra 50, 40064, Ozzano Emilia (BO), Italy.
| | - Maria Morini
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum-University of Bologna, Via Tolara di Sopra 50, 40064, Ozzano Emilia (BO), Italy.
| | - Francesco Dondi
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum-University of Bologna, Via Tolara di Sopra 50, 40064, Ozzano Emilia (BO), Italy.
| | - Mara Battilani
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum-University of Bologna, Via Tolara di Sopra 50, 40064, Ozzano Emilia (BO), Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Urbani L, Tryland M, Ehrich D, Fuglei E, Battilani M, Balboni A. Ancient origin and genetic segregation of canine circovirus infecting arctic foxes (Vulpes lagopus) in Svalbard and red foxes (Vulpes vulpes) in Northern Norway. Transbound Emerg Dis 2020; 68:1283-1293. [PMID: 32786111 DOI: 10.1111/tbed.13783] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [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: 05/12/2020] [Revised: 07/07/2020] [Accepted: 08/07/2020] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Canine circovirus (CanineCV) is a relatively new viral species, belonging to the family Circoviridae, whose pathogenic role is still uncertain. Since its first description in one domestic dog in 2011 from the USA, several reports have been documenting its distribution worldwide. Recently, CanineCV was also detected in wild animals such as wolves, foxes and badgers. In order to investigate the presence and the genetic characteristics of CanineCV in foxes of Arctic and Sub-Arctic regions, the presence of CanineCV DNA in internal organs (liver and spleen) of 51 arctic foxes (Vulpes lagopus) from Svalbard archipelago and 59 red foxes (Vulpes vulpes) from Northern Norway, sampled from 1996 to 2001 and from 2014 to 2018, respectively, was screened by real-time PCR. CanineCV was detected in 11/51 arctic foxes and in 10/59 red foxes, backdating the circulation of the virus at least to 1996 in the arctic fox population. The complete genome of 14 identified CanineCV was sequenced and analysed showing an identity higher than 80.8% with the reference strains available to date. According to the species demarcation threshold of 80% genome-wide nucleotide sequence identity for members of the family Circoviridae provided by International Committee on Taxonomy of Viruses (ICTV), all the CanineCV belong to a single species. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that all the CanineCV were subdivided into five main clusters with one including only CanineCV identified in foxes. Furthermore, CanineCV identified in arctic foxes and red foxes formed two distinct lineages. From these data, we hypothesize that the viral transmission did not occur between the two species of foxes as a consequence of the lack of contact between the two hosts or that the virus acquired mutations in the time elapsed between the samplings.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lorenza Urbani
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum-University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Morten Tryland
- Arctic Infection Biology, Department of Arctic and Marine Biology, UiT The Arctic University of Norway, Tromsø, Norway.,Norwegian Polar Institute, Fram Centre, Tromsø, Norway
| | - Dorothee Ehrich
- Arctic Infection Biology, Department of Arctic and Marine Biology, UiT The Arctic University of Norway, Tromsø, Norway
| | - Eva Fuglei
- Norwegian Polar Institute, Fram Centre, Tromsø, Norway
| | - Mara Battilani
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum-University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Andrea Balboni
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum-University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Balboni A, Franzo G, Bano L, De Arcangeli S, Rizzardi A, Urbani L, Segatore S, Serafini F, Dondi F, Battilani M. Culture-Dependent and Sequencing Methods Revealed the Absence of a Bacterial Community Residing in the Urine of Healthy Cats. Front Vet Sci 2020; 7:438. [PMID: 32851021 PMCID: PMC7419613 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2020.00438] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [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: 05/11/2020] [Accepted: 06/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
A growing number of studies suggest that the lower urinary tract of humans and dogs can harbor a urinary microbiota. Nevertheless, a certain concern has developed that the microbiota reported could be due to unaccounted contamination, especially in low-biomass samples. The aim of this study was to investigate the bacterial community which populates the urine of healthy cats using two approaches: a culture-dependent approach which consisted of the expanded quantitative urine culture (EQUC) techniques capable of identifying live bacteria not growing in standard urine cultures, and a culture-independent approach which consisted of 16S ribosomal RNA next generation sequencing (16S rRNA NGS) capable of identifying bacterial DNA and exploring microbial diversity with high resolution. To avoid confounding factors of possible bacterial contamination, the urine was sampled using ultrasound-guided cystocentesis, and several sample controls and negative controls were analyzed. The urine sampled from the 10 cats included in the study showed no bacterial growth in the EQUC procedure. Although several reads were successfully originated using 16S rRNA NGS, a comparable pattern was observed between urine samples and the negative control, and no taxa were statistically accepted as non-contaminant. Taken together, the results obtained allowed stating that no viable bacteria were present in the urine of healthy cats without lower urinary tract disease and urinary tract infections, and that the bacterial DNA detected was of contaminant origin.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Balboni
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum-University of Bologna, Ozzano Emilia, Italy
| | - Giovanni Franzo
- Department of Animal Medicine, Production and Health, University of Padua, Legnaro, Italy
| | - Luca Bano
- Diagnostic and Microbiology Laboratory, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale delle Venezie, Villorba di Treviso, Italy
| | - Stefano De Arcangeli
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum-University of Bologna, Ozzano Emilia, Italy
| | - Alessia Rizzardi
- Diagnostic and Microbiology Laboratory, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale delle Venezie, Villorba di Treviso, Italy
| | - Lorenza Urbani
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum-University of Bologna, Ozzano Emilia, Italy
| | - Sofia Segatore
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum-University of Bologna, Ozzano Emilia, Italy
| | - Federica Serafini
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum-University of Bologna, Ozzano Emilia, Italy
| | - Francesco Dondi
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum-University of Bologna, Ozzano Emilia, Italy
| | - Mara Battilani
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum-University of Bologna, Ozzano Emilia, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Balboni A, Zamagni S, Bertasio C, Boniotti MB, Troìa R, Battilani M, Dondi F. Identification of Serogroups Australis and Icterohaemorrhagiae in Two Dogs with a Severe Form of Acute Leptospirosis in Italy. Pathogens 2020; 9:pathogens9050351. [PMID: 32384672 PMCID: PMC7281091 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens9050351] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [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: 04/17/2020] [Revised: 05/01/2020] [Accepted: 05/04/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Leptospirosis is an infectious disease that causes serious illness in dogs. For this reason, epidemiological and clinical studies focusing on disease characterization are widely advocated. The aim of this study was to characterize the leptospires identified in dogs with confirmed symptomatic acute leptospirosis. Leptospira spp. DNA detected in urine, blood, or both samples from nine infected dogs was analyzed using the multi-locus sequence typing (MLST) technique. Leptospires from two dogs were successfully typed: one was identified as belonging to Sequence Type (ST) 17 and one to ST198, both within the L. interrogans species, serogroups Icterohaemorrhagiae and Australis, respectively. Based on the results of routine serologic tests, antibodies reactive toward these serogroups are commonly revealed in dogs in Italy. This study provides the first molecular analysis that identifies infecting Leptospira directly on DNA from biological samples of dogs, showing that serogroup Australis can lead to a severe clinical presentation of leptospirosis in infected dogs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Balboni
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum, University of Bologna, 40064 Ozzano dell’Emilia, Bologna, Italy; (A.B.); (S.Z.); (R.T.); (F.D.)
| | - Silvia Zamagni
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum, University of Bologna, 40064 Ozzano dell’Emilia, Bologna, Italy; (A.B.); (S.Z.); (R.T.); (F.D.)
| | - Cristina Bertasio
- National Reference Centre for Animal Leptospirosis (NRCL), Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Lombardia ed Emilia Romagna “Bruno Ubertini”, via Bianchi 7/9, 25121 Brescia, Italy; (C.B.); (M.B.B.)
| | - Maria Beatrice Boniotti
- National Reference Centre for Animal Leptospirosis (NRCL), Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Lombardia ed Emilia Romagna “Bruno Ubertini”, via Bianchi 7/9, 25121 Brescia, Italy; (C.B.); (M.B.B.)
| | - Roberta Troìa
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum, University of Bologna, 40064 Ozzano dell’Emilia, Bologna, Italy; (A.B.); (S.Z.); (R.T.); (F.D.)
| | - Mara Battilani
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum, University of Bologna, 40064 Ozzano dell’Emilia, Bologna, Italy; (A.B.); (S.Z.); (R.T.); (F.D.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Francesco Dondi
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum, University of Bologna, 40064 Ozzano dell’Emilia, Bologna, Italy; (A.B.); (S.Z.); (R.T.); (F.D.)
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Urbani L, Tirolo A, Salvatore D, Tumbarello M, Segatore S, Battilani M, Balboni A, Dondi F. Serological, molecular and clinicopathological findings associated with Leishmania infantum infection in cats in Northern Italy. J Feline Med Surg 2020; 22:935-943. [PMID: 31957532 DOI: 10.1177/1098612x19895067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [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: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The aims of this study were to investigate the prevalence of Leishmania species infection in cats in Northern Italy and to evaluate the associations between infection and signalment and clinicopathological data. METHODS The study was carried out in a veterinary university hospital from June to November 2017. Blood, urine, conjunctival swabs and hair were collected from all randomly selected cats. Leishmania species infection was evaluated using the indirect fluorescent antibody test (IFAT), setting a cut-off value of 1:80, and using real-time PCR on blood, conjunctival and hair samples. A complete blood count, serum chemistry profile, serum electrophoresis and urinalysis were also carried out. The cats were grouped on the basis of the results of the diagnostic criteria adopted in positive, negative and unconfirmed Leishmania cases. Non-parametric variables and continuous data were compared among the study groups using the χ2 test and the Mann-Whitney U-test, respectively. RESULTS One hundred and fifty-two cats were included. Nineteen of the 152 (12.5%) cats were positive (18/152 [11.8%] showed an IFAT titre of ⩾1:80 and 1/152 [0.7%] was real-time PCR-positive from a hair sample); 106/152 (69.7%) cats were negative; and 27/152 (17.8%) cats were unconfirmed for Leishmania species. Total proteins, beta2-globulin and gamma-globulin were significantly increased in the positive Leishmania group compared with the negative group. CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE The results of the present study demonstrated the spread of Leishmania infantum infection in cats in Northern Italy. Hyperproteinaemia and hypergammaglobulinaemia appeared to be significant clinicopathological abnormalities in this population of cats with L infantum infection.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lorenza Urbani
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum - University of Bologna, Ozzano dell'Emilia, Bologna, Italy
| | - Alessandro Tirolo
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum - University of Bologna, Ozzano dell'Emilia, Bologna, Italy
| | - Daniela Salvatore
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum - University of Bologna, Ozzano dell'Emilia, Bologna, Italy
| | - Michele Tumbarello
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum - University of Bologna, Ozzano dell'Emilia, Bologna, Italy
| | - Sofia Segatore
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum - University of Bologna, Ozzano dell'Emilia, Bologna, Italy
| | - Mara Battilani
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum - University of Bologna, Ozzano dell'Emilia, Bologna, Italy
| | - Andrea Balboni
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum - University of Bologna, Ozzano dell'Emilia, Bologna, Italy
| | - Francesco Dondi
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum - University of Bologna, Ozzano dell'Emilia, Bologna, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
De Arcangeli S, Balboni A, Kaehler E, Urbani L, Verin R, Battilani M. Genomic Characterization of Canine Circovirus Detected in Red Foxes ( Vulpes vulpes) from Italy using a New Real-Time PCR Assay. J Wildl Dis 2020; 56:239-242. [PMID: 31237820] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Data on canine circovirus circulation among red foxes (Vulpes vulpes) are limited. We report the detection of canine circovirus in a red fox from Italy. The virus was closely related to strains from dogs (Canis lupus familiaris) rather than those from foxes, suggesting a possible transmission between the two species.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Stefano De Arcangeli
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum-University of Bologna, Via Tolara di Sopra 50, 40064 Ozzano dell'Emilia, Bologna, Italy
| | - Andrea Balboni
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum-University of Bologna, Via Tolara di Sopra 50, 40064 Ozzano dell'Emilia, Bologna, Italy
| | - Elisa Kaehler
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum-University of Bologna, Via Tolara di Sopra 50, 40064 Ozzano dell'Emilia, Bologna, Italy
| | - Lorenza Urbani
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum-University of Bologna, Via Tolara di Sopra 50, 40064 Ozzano dell'Emilia, Bologna, Italy
| | - Ranieri Verin
- Department of Veterinary Pathology and Public Health, Institute of Veterinary Sciences, University of Liverpool, Chester High Road, CH64 7TE Neston, Liverpool, UK
| | - Mara Battilani
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum-University of Bologna, Via Tolara di Sopra 50, 40064 Ozzano dell'Emilia, Bologna, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Battilani M, Modugno F, Mira F, Purpari G, Di Bella S, Guercio A, Balboni A. Molecular epidemiology of canine parvovirus type 2 in Italy from 1994 to 2017: recurrence of the CPV-2b variant. BMC Vet Res 2019; 15:393. [PMID: 31684949 PMCID: PMC6829998 DOI: 10.1186/s12917-019-2096-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [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: 06/06/2019] [Accepted: 09/16/2019] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Canine parvovirus type 2 (CPV-2) is the most important enteric virus infecting canids. It is a rapidly evolving virus; after its emergence in the 1970s, new antigenic variants (called CPV-2a, 2b and 2c) emerged and replaced the original antigenic type. The three antigenic variants are globally distributed with different frequencies and levels of genetic variability. This study focused on VP2 gene sequence analysis and the phylodynamics of CPV-2 which were detected in 123 dogs showing clinical signs of gastroenteritis collected in Italy from 1994 to 2017. Results For the most part, the sick dogs were young, and a third of them (32.5%) had been vaccinated. No statistical association was found between the CPV-2 antigenic variants, and sex, age, breed and vaccination status. Sequence analysis showed that all three antigenic types circulated in Italy; the CPV-2a type was the prominent genotype, followed by CPV-2c and CPV-2b, with notable differences regarding regional bases and significant fluctuations over time. Nucleotide sequence data showed high genetic heterogeneity with 67 nucleotide sequence types (ntSTs) identified, corresponding to 21 amino acid sequence types (aaSTs). The aaSTs and ntSTs obtained were distributed differently among the three CPV-2 antigenic variants: CPV-2a grouped 12/21 (57.1%) aaSTs and 41/67 (61.2%) ntSTs; CPV-2b grouped 5/21 (23.8%) aaSTs and 6/67 (8.9%) ntSTs, and CPV-2c grouped 4/21 (19.1%) aaSTs and 20/67 (29.9%) ntSTs. Canine parvovirus 2a was characterised by the highest genetic variability while CPV-2c was characterised by notable stability with a predominant amino acid profile during the entire sampling time. Canine parvovirus 2b re-emerged in recent years, showing a new and distinctive amino acid profile of the VP2 protein. Conclusions The findings of the present study provided new insights regarding the phylodynamics and evolution of CPV-2 in Italy, pointing out notable differences at the local level in the distribution of the CPV-2 variants and the selection of genetic subtypes. The evolution of CPV-2 has raised questions regarding the efficacy of vaccination; therefore, continuous monitoring regarding the evolution and spread of new CPV-2 variants should be a key aim of ongoing research.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mara Battilani
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum - University of Bologna, Via Tolara di Sopra 50, 40064, Ozzano dell'Emilia, BO, Italy.
| | - Francesco Modugno
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum - University of Bologna, Via Tolara di Sopra 50, 40064, Ozzano dell'Emilia, BO, Italy
| | - Francesco Mira
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Sicilia "A. Mirri", Palermo, Italy
| | - Giuseppa Purpari
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Sicilia "A. Mirri", Palermo, Italy
| | - Santina Di Bella
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Sicilia "A. Mirri", Palermo, Italy
| | - Annalisa Guercio
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Sicilia "A. Mirri", Palermo, Italy
| | - Andrea Balboni
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum - University of Bologna, Via Tolara di Sopra 50, 40064, Ozzano dell'Emilia, BO, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Balboni A, Musto C, Kaehler E, Verin R, Caniglia R, Fabbri E, Carra E, Cotti C, Battilani M, Delogu M. Genetic Characterization of Canine Adenovirus Type 1 Detected by Real-Time Polymerase Chain Reaction in an Oral Sample of an Italian Wolf ( Canis Lupus). J Wildl Dis 2019; 55:737-741. [PMID: 30789782] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
We report the detection of canine adenovirus type 1 DNA by real-time PCR technique in an oral sample of an Italian wolf (Canis lupus italicus). Genetic characterization of the virus revealed a strict relationship with viruses detected in dogs (Canis lupus familiaris), wolves, and red foxes (Vulpes vulpes), suggesting that transmission between wild animals and dogs had occurred.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Balboni
- 1 Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum-University of Bologna, Via Tolara di Sopra 50, 40064 Ozzano dell'Emilia, Bologna, Italy
| | - Carmela Musto
- 1 Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum-University of Bologna, Via Tolara di Sopra 50, 40064 Ozzano dell'Emilia, Bologna, Italy
| | - Elisa Kaehler
- 1 Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum-University of Bologna, Via Tolara di Sopra 50, 40064 Ozzano dell'Emilia, Bologna, Italy
| | - Ranieri Verin
- 2 Department of Veterinary Pathology and Public Health, Institute of Veterinary Sciences, University of Liverpool, Chester High Road, CH64 7TE Neston, Liverpool, UK
| | - Romolo Caniglia
- 3 Area per la Genetica della Conservazione, Istituto Superiore per la Protezione e la Ricerca Ambientale (ISPRA), Via Ca' Fornacetta 9, 40064 Ozzano dell'Emilia, Bologna, Italy
| | - Elena Fabbri
- 3 Area per la Genetica della Conservazione, Istituto Superiore per la Protezione e la Ricerca Ambientale (ISPRA), Via Ca' Fornacetta 9, 40064 Ozzano dell'Emilia, Bologna, Italy
| | - Elena Carra
- 4 Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Lombardia ed Emilia Romagna "Bruno Ubertini", Via Diena 16, 41122 Modena, Italy
| | - Claudia Cotti
- 1 Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum-University of Bologna, Via Tolara di Sopra 50, 40064 Ozzano dell'Emilia, Bologna, Italy
| | - Mara Battilani
- 1 Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum-University of Bologna, Via Tolara di Sopra 50, 40064 Ozzano dell'Emilia, Bologna, Italy
| | - Mauro Delogu
- 1 Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum-University of Bologna, Via Tolara di Sopra 50, 40064 Ozzano dell'Emilia, Bologna, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
De Arcangeli S, Balboni A, Serafini F, Battilani M, Dondi F. Anaplasma phagocytophilum infection in thrombocytopenic dogs. Vet Ital 2019; 54:73-78. [PMID: 29631317 DOI: 10.12834/vetit.1070.5796.2] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
Anaplasma and Ehrlichia spp. are tick-transmitted bacteria of clinical relevance in European dogs. The diagnosis of infection is often difficult due to the wide spectrum of disease caused by them. During infection, reduction in platelet count is considered the most common haematological abnormality, frequently representing the sole alteration in asymptomatic dogs. In this study, the presence of bacteria belonging to the genera Anaplasma and Ehrlichia was investigated in Northern Italy in blood samples from 159 thrombocytopenic dogs using a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assay amplifying a portion of the heat shock gene (groEL). Obtained amplicons were sequenced and analysed. Two dogs were positive for A. phagocytophilum, while A. platys and E. canis were not detected. None of the PCR-positive dogs were diagnosed at the time of hospital admission, even in the presence of clinical signs and clinicopathological abnormalities potentially related to A. phagocytophilum infection. Nucleotide sequence analysis showed that the 2 detected strains belonged to the cluster Europe 1 and were different from each other. This study confirms the presence of A. phagocytophilum infections in dogs of Northern Italy, causing clinical signs and laboratory abnormalities that could not be properly diagnosed and treated.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Stefano De Arcangeli
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum-University of Bologna, Via Tolara di Sopra 50, 40064 Ozzano Emilia (BO), Italy
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
18
|
Muth D, Corman VM, Roth H, Binger T, Dijkman R, Gottula LT, Gloza-Rausch F, Balboni A, Battilani M, Rihtarič D, Toplak I, Ameneiros RS, Pfeifer A, Thiel V, Drexler JF, Müller MA, Drosten C. Attenuation of replication by a 29 nucleotide deletion in SARS-coronavirus acquired during the early stages of human-to-human transmission. Sci Rep 2018; 8:15177. [PMID: 30310104 PMCID: PMC6181990 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-33487-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 145] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2018] [Accepted: 09/27/2018] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
A 29 nucleotide deletion in open reading frame 8 (ORF8) is the most obvious genetic change in severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus (SARS-CoV) during its emergence in humans. In spite of intense study, it remains unclear whether the deletion actually reflects adaptation to humans. Here we engineered full, partially deleted (-29 nt), and fully deleted ORF8 into a SARS-CoV infectious cDNA clone, strain Frankfurt-1. Replication of the resulting viruses was compared in primate cell cultures as well as Rhinolophus bat cells made permissive for SARS-CoV replication by lentiviral transduction of the human angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 receptor. Cells from cotton rat, goat, and sheep provided control scenarios that represent host systems in which SARS-CoV is neither endemic nor epidemic. Independent of the cell system, the truncation of ORF8 (29 nt deletion) decreased replication up to 23-fold. The effect was independent of the type I interferon response. The 29 nt deletion in SARS-CoV is a deleterious mutation acquired along the initial human-to-human transmission chain. The resulting loss of fitness may be due to a founder effect, which has rarely been documented in processes of viral emergence. These results have important implications for the retrospective assessment of the threat posed by SARS.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Doreen Muth
- Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Institute of Virology, Charitéplatz 1, 10117, Berlin, Germany
- German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Berlin, Germany
- Institute of Virology, University of Bonn Medical Centre, Sigmund-Freud-Str. 25, 53127, Bonn, Germany
| | - Victor Max Corman
- Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Institute of Virology, Charitéplatz 1, 10117, Berlin, Germany
- German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Berlin, Germany
- Institute of Virology, University of Bonn Medical Centre, Sigmund-Freud-Str. 25, 53127, Bonn, Germany
| | - Hanna Roth
- Institute of Virology, University of Bonn Medical Centre, Sigmund-Freud-Str. 25, 53127, Bonn, Germany
| | - Tabea Binger
- Institute of Virology, University of Bonn Medical Centre, Sigmund-Freud-Str. 25, 53127, Bonn, Germany
| | - Ronald Dijkman
- Federal Department of Home Affairs, Institute of Virology and Immunology IVI, Bern and Mittelhäusern, Sensemattstrasse 293, 3147, Mittelhäusern, Switzerland
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Pathobiology, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Bern, Länggassstrasse 122, 3012, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Lina Theresa Gottula
- Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Institute of Virology, Charitéplatz 1, 10117, Berlin, Germany
- German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Berlin, Germany
- Institute of Virology, University of Bonn Medical Centre, Sigmund-Freud-Str. 25, 53127, Bonn, Germany
| | - Florian Gloza-Rausch
- Noctalis, Centre for Bat Protection and Information, Oberbergstraße 27, 23795, Bad Segeberg, Germany
| | - Andrea Balboni
- Dipartimento di Scienze Mediche Veterinarie, Facoltà di Medicina Veterinaria, Alma Mater Studiorum-Università di Bologna, Via Tolara di Sopra 50, 40064, Ozzano Emilia, (BO), Italy
| | - Mara Battilani
- Dipartimento di Scienze Mediche Veterinarie, Facoltà di Medicina Veterinaria, Alma Mater Studiorum-Università di Bologna, Via Tolara di Sopra 50, 40064, Ozzano Emilia, (BO), Italy
| | - Danijela Rihtarič
- Virology Unit, Institute of Microbiology and Parasitology, Veterinary Faculty, University of Ljubljana, Gerbičeva 60, 1000, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Ivan Toplak
- Virology Unit, Institute of Microbiology and Parasitology, Veterinary Faculty, University of Ljubljana, Gerbičeva 60, 1000, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Ramón Seage Ameneiros
- Institute of Evolutionary Ecology and Conservation Genomics, University of Ulm, Albert-Einstein Allee 11, 89069, Ulm, Germany
- Group Morcegos de Galicia, Drosera Society, Pdo. Magdalena, G-2, 2° esq, 15320, As Pontes, Spain
| | - Alexander Pfeifer
- Institute for Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Bonn, Sigmund-Freud-Str. 25, 53127, Bonn, Germany
| | - Volker Thiel
- Federal Department of Home Affairs, Institute of Virology and Immunology IVI, Bern and Mittelhäusern, Sensemattstrasse 293, 3147, Mittelhäusern, Switzerland
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Pathobiology, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Bern, Länggassstrasse 122, 3012, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Jan Felix Drexler
- Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Institute of Virology, Charitéplatz 1, 10117, Berlin, Germany
- German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Berlin, Germany
- Institute of Virology, University of Bonn Medical Centre, Sigmund-Freud-Str. 25, 53127, Bonn, Germany
| | - Marcel Alexander Müller
- Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Institute of Virology, Charitéplatz 1, 10117, Berlin, Germany
- German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Berlin, Germany
- Institute of Virology, University of Bonn Medical Centre, Sigmund-Freud-Str. 25, 53127, Bonn, Germany
| | - Christian Drosten
- Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Institute of Virology, Charitéplatz 1, 10117, Berlin, Germany.
- German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Berlin, Germany.
- Institute of Virology, University of Bonn Medical Centre, Sigmund-Freud-Str. 25, 53127, Bonn, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Mira F, Purpari G, Di Bella S, Vicari D, Schirò G, Di Marco P, Macaluso G, Battilani M, Guercio A. Update on canine distemper virus (CDV) strains of Arctic-like lineage detected in dogs in Italy. Vet Ital 2018; 54:225-236. [PMID: 30575000 DOI: 10.12834/vetit.1455.7862.2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2017] [Revised: 04/17/2018] [Accepted: 07/17/2018] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
Canine distemper virus (CDV) is the etiologic agent of distemper in dogs. It exhibits an elevated potential of crossing species barriers, infecting a wide range of wild and domestic carnivores. Of its encoding genes, hemagglutinin (H) shows high heterogeneity, and it was used to determine the relationship between CDV strains due to its variability and key role in determining cell tropism, host shift, and in eliciting a protective immune response. This study analysed the full-length H gene sequence of Arctic-like CDV strains collected from dogs in Italy during a period in which an increased activity of CDV diffusion was observed. The common amino acid changes and features of Arctic-like CDV strains collected from 2011 to 2016 in Europe were described, providing an updated analysis of the genomic features. A comparison with CDV vaccine strains was carried out to evaluate the increased genomic difference with CDV Arctic-like field strains. This study provides a complete and updated analysis of the current spreading strains of Arctic-like lineage and the main amino acid variations in the hemagglutinin gene sequence circulating in Italy. Moreover, it provides novel information regarding the evolution of the most recent CDV Arctic-like lineage strains collected in Europe.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Mira
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Sicilia "A. Mirri", Via Gino Marinuzzi 3, 90129 Palermo, Italy.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
20
|
Giunti M, Troia R, Battilani M, Giardino L, Dondi F, Andreani G, Fracassi F. Retrospective evaluation of circulating thyroid hormones in critically ill dogs with systemic inflammatory response syndrome. J Vet Sci 2018; 18:471-477. [PMID: 28057899 PMCID: PMC5746440 DOI: 10.4142/jvs.2017.18.4.471] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [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: 02/02/2016] [Revised: 08/09/2016] [Accepted: 11/23/2016] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Critical illness can be associated with transient alterations in circulating thyroid hormone concentrations, indicating the presence of non-thyroidal illness (NTI). NTI is well described in humans, but there are few reports on its occurrence and prognostic significance in dogs. This retrospective study assessed the occurrence of NTI in a population of dogs with systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS) and investigated its association with disease severity (APPLEfast scores). A total of 41 SIRS dogs were included and were divided by SIRS origin (non-septic SIRS, n = 10; septic SIRS, n = 41) and final outcome (survivors, n = 37; non-survivors, n = 4). Healthy, age-matched dogs (n = 15) were included as controls. Serum thyroid hormone levels including total T3, free T3, total T4, and reverse T3 were measured upon admission. Compared to controls, there were significant changes in serum thyroid hormone concentrations in SIRS dogs, suggesting the presence of NTI. Septic SIRS dogs had higher APPLEfast scores and lower serum thyroid hormones concentrations than those in non-septic SIRS and control dogs. In conclusion, NTI was frequent in dogs with SIRS and may be associated with the presence of sepsis or high illness severity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Massimo Giunti
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum-University of Bologna, 40126 Bologna, Italy
| | - Roberta Troia
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum-University of Bologna, 40126 Bologna, Italy
| | - Mara Battilani
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum-University of Bologna, 40126 Bologna, Italy
| | - Luciana Giardino
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum-University of Bologna, 40126 Bologna, Italy
| | - Francesco Dondi
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum-University of Bologna, 40126 Bologna, Italy
| | - Giulia Andreani
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum-University of Bologna, 40126 Bologna, Italy
| | - Federico Fracassi
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum-University of Bologna, 40126 Bologna, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Battilani M, De Arcangeli S, Balboni A. A60 Molecular epidemiology of canine parvovirus type 2 (CPV-2) in Italy. Virus Evol 2018. [PMCID: PMC5905563 DOI: 10.1093/ve/vey010.059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- M Battilani
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, University of Bologna, Italy
| | - S De Arcangeli
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, University of Bologna, Italy
| | - A Balboni
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, University of Bologna, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Balboni A, Bassi F, De Arcangeli S, Zobba R, Dedola C, Alberti A, Battilani M. Molecular analysis of carnivore Protoparvovirus detected in white blood cells of naturally infected cats. BMC Vet Res 2018; 14:41. [PMID: 29402272 PMCID: PMC5799907 DOI: 10.1186/s12917-018-1356-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [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: 03/23/2017] [Accepted: 01/17/2018] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Cats are susceptible to feline panleukopenia virus (FPV) and canine parvovirus (CPV) variants 2a, 2b and 2c. Detection of FPV and CPV variants in apparently healthy cats and their persistence in white blood cells (WBC) and other tissues when neutralising antibodies are simultaneously present, suggest that parvovirus may persist long-term in the tissues of cats post-infection without causing clinical signs. The aim of this study was to screen a population of 54 cats from Sardinia (Italy) for the presence of both FPV and CPV DNA within buffy coat samples using polymerase chain reaction (PCR). The DNA viral load, genetic diversity, phylogeny and antibody titres against parvoviruses were investigated in the positive cats. Results Carnivore protoparvovirus 1 DNA was detected in nine cats (16.7%). Viral DNA was reassembled to FPV in four cats and to CPV (CPV-2b and 2c) in four cats; one subject showed an unusually high genetic complexity with mixed infection involving FPV and CPV-2c. Antibodies against parvovirus were detected in all subjects which tested positive to DNA parvoviruses. Conclusions The identification of FPV and CPV DNA in the WBC of asymptomatic cats, despite the presence of specific antibodies against parvoviruses, and the high genetic heterogeneity detected in one sample, confirmed the relevant epidemiological role of cats in parvovirus infection.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Balboni
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum - University of Bologna, Via Tolara di Sopra 50, 40064, Ozzano dell'Emilia, BO, Italy
| | - Francesca Bassi
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum - University of Bologna, Via Tolara di Sopra 50, 40064, Ozzano dell'Emilia, BO, Italy
| | - Stefano De Arcangeli
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum - University of Bologna, Via Tolara di Sopra 50, 40064, Ozzano dell'Emilia, BO, Italy
| | - Rosanna Zobba
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Sassari, Via Vienna, 2, Sassari, 07100, Italy
| | - Carla Dedola
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Sassari, Via Vienna, 2, Sassari, 07100, Italy
| | - Alberto Alberti
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Sassari, Via Vienna, 2, Sassari, 07100, Italy
| | - Mara Battilani
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum - University of Bologna, Via Tolara di Sopra 50, 40064, Ozzano dell'Emilia, BO, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Battilani M, De Arcangeli S, Balboni A, Dondi F. Genetic diversity and molecular epidemiology of Anaplasma. Infect Genet Evol 2017; 49:195-211. [PMID: 28122249 DOI: 10.1016/j.meegid.2017.01.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 116] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2016] [Revised: 01/18/2017] [Accepted: 01/19/2017] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Anaplasma are obligate intracellular bacteria of cells of haematopoietic origin and are aetiological agents of tick-borne diseases of both veterinary and medical interest common in both tropical and temperate regions. The recent disclosure of their zoonotic potential has greatly increased interest in the study of these bacteria, leading to the recent reorganisation of Rickettsia taxonomy and to the possible discovery of new species belonging to the genus Anaplasma. This review is particularly focused on the common and unique characteristics of Anaplasma marginale and Anaplasma phagocytophilum, with an emphasis on genetic diversity and evolution, and the main distinguishing features of the diseases caused by the different Anaplasma spp. are described as well.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mara Battilani
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum - University of Bologna, Via Tolara di Sopra, 50, 40064 Ozzano Emilia, Bo, Italy.
| | - Stefano De Arcangeli
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum - University of Bologna, Via Tolara di Sopra, 50, 40064 Ozzano Emilia, Bo, Italy
| | - Andrea Balboni
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum - University of Bologna, Via Tolara di Sopra, 50, 40064 Ozzano Emilia, Bo, Italy
| | - Francesco Dondi
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum - University of Bologna, Via Tolara di Sopra, 50, 40064 Ozzano Emilia, Bo, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Savini F, Gallina L, Prosperi A, Battilani M, Bettini G, Scagliarini A. Corrigendum to “E5 nucleotide polymorphisms suggest quasispecies occurrence in BPV-1 sub-clinically infected horses” [Res. Vet. Sci., 102, October 2015, 80–82]. Res Vet Sci 2016. [DOI: 10.1016/j.rvsc.2015.10.001] [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] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
|
25
|
Ciulli S, Natale A, Battilani M, Galletti E, Prosperi S. Genetic Characterisation of Coat Protein Gene of Betanodavirus Isolates from Different Fish Species. Vet Res Commun 2015; 29 Suppl 2:237-40. [PMID: 16244964 DOI: 10.1007/s11259-005-0051-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- S Ciulli
- Department of Veterinary Public Health and Animal Pathology, Alma Mater Studiorum Bologna University, Bologna, Italy.
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
26
|
Balboni A, De Lorenzo Dandola G, Scagliarini A, Prosperi S, Battilani M. Occurrence of different Canine distemper virus lineages in Italian dogs. Vet Ital 2015; 50:227-31. [PMID: 25273966 DOI: 10.12834/vetit.52.2173.2] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
This study describes the sequence analysis of the H gene of 7 Canine distemper virus (CDV) strains identified in dogs in Italy between years 2002-2012. The phylogenetic analysis showed that the CDV strains belonged to 2 clusters: 6 viruses were identified as Arctic-like lineage and 1 as Europe 1 lineage. These data show a considerable prevalence of Arctic-like-CDVs in the analysed dogs. The dogs and the 3 viruses more recently identified showed 4 distinctive amino acid mutations compared to all other Arctic CDVs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Balboni
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum-University of Bologna, Via Tolara di Sopra 50, 40064, Ozzano dell'Emilia (BO), Italy
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
27
|
Balboni A, Dondi F, Prosperi S, Battilani M. Development of a SYBR Green real-time PCR assay with melting curve analysis for simultaneous detection and differentiation of canine adenovirus type 1 and type 2. J Virol Methods 2015; 222:34-40. [PMID: 26028428 DOI: 10.1016/j.jviromet.2015.05.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [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: 03/04/2015] [Revised: 05/11/2015] [Accepted: 05/21/2015] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Canine adenovirus type 1 (CAdV-1) and canine adenovirus type 2 (CAdV-2) cause infectious canine hepatitis (ICH) and infectious tracheobronchitis (ITB) in dogs, respectively. Cases of ICH have been documented in recent years and recent surveys have demonstrated a wide percentage of asymptomatic CAdV-1 infection in the canine population. Since both CAdV types are detectable in the same biological matrices, and viral coinfection with CAdV-1 and CAdV-2 are reported with high frequency, it is urgent to have available a rapid, highly sensitive and specific assay for the diagnosis of CAdV infection and distinction between CAdV-1 and CAdV-2. In order to detect canine adenovirus in biological samples and to rapidly distinguish the two viral types, a SYBR Green real-time PCR assay was optimized to discriminate CAdV-1 and CAdV-2 via a melting curve analysis. The developed assay showed high sensitivity and reproducibility and was highly efficient and specific in discriminating the two CAdV types. This reliable and rapid technique may represent a simple, useful and economic option for simultaneous CAdV types detection, which would be feasible and attractive for all diagnostic laboratories, both for clinical purposes and for epidemiological investigations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Balboni
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum-University of Bologna, Via Tolara di Sopra 50, 40064 Ozzano Emilia (BO), Italy
| | - Francesco Dondi
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum-University of Bologna, Via Tolara di Sopra 50, 40064 Ozzano Emilia (BO), Italy
| | - Santino Prosperi
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum-University of Bologna, Via Tolara di Sopra 50, 40064 Ozzano Emilia (BO), Italy
| | - Mara Battilani
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum-University of Bologna, Via Tolara di Sopra 50, 40064 Ozzano Emilia (BO), Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Balboni A, Bassi P, Battilani M, Biserni R, Prosperi S, Dondi F. Severe, diffuse fibrinonecrotic pleuropneumonia in a cat affected by multiple viral infection. Vet Ital 2015; 50:145-9. [PMID: 24817332 DOI: 10.12834/vetit.49.144.2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/08/2014] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
This communication describes the coinfection with feline panleukopenia virus (FPV), feline herpesvirus 1 (FeHV-1), feline calicivirus (FCV) and feline coronavirus (FCoV) in a 1 year‑old domestic cat living in a feline shelter. The cat was referred to veterinary hospital with clinical signs related to diffuse gastro-intestinal inflammation, it had developed a severe pneumopathy with fibrinous exudation in all body cavities and died 8 days after initial presentation. Pathological findings and biomolecular diagnostic test results were compatible with an initial FPV infection that, in consequence of the lymphoid depletion, has fostered coinfection or reactivation of chronic-latent infections with FeHV-1, FCV, and FCoV. In the reported case, the simultaneous presence of different viruses exacerbated the clinical status of the host, resulting in multiple organ damage and leading it to its death.
Collapse
|
29
|
Zobba R, Anfossi A, Visco S, Sotgiu F, Dedola C, Pinna Parpaglia M, Battilani M, Pittau M, Alberti A. Cell tropism and molecular epidemiology of Anaplasma platys-like strains in cats. Ticks Tick Borne Dis 2015; 6:272-80. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ttbdis.2015.01.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2014] [Revised: 01/26/2015] [Accepted: 01/26/2015] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
|
30
|
Santos RC, Battilani M, Garcia RG, Geisenhoff L, Jordan RA. COMPARAÇÃO ENTRE SISTEMAS DE AVALIAÇÃO AMBIENTAL EM GALPÕES DE GALINHAS POEDEIRAS NA REGIÃO DE DOURADOS – MS. Revista Brasileira de Engenharia de Biossistemas 2014. [DOI: 10.18011/bioeng2014v8n2p183-190] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Considerando que fatores ambientais como temperatura e umidade influenciam na produção animal, estes devem ser observados com o máximo de precisão possível, para assim, evitar tomadas de decisões baseadas em dados distorcidos. Desta forma, o objetivo deste trabalho foi coletar dados climáticos próximos a um galpão para produção de galinhas poedeiras e compará-los com os medidos por uma agência meteorológica oficial, verificando possíveis desvios devido à distância geográfica existente. O experimento foi realizado na cidade de Dourados – MS, com coletas de dados climáticos na UFGD e Embrapa Agropecuária Oeste, em abril de 2014. Foram escolhidos 8 dias aleatórios, onde se leu a temperatura, velocidade do vento e umidade relativa do ar. Por meio dos valores médios do índice de temperatura e umidade (ITU) obtidos para o galpão e dados oficiais foi possível concluir que a curva de ITU adquirida para a agencia climática oficial representa uma curva ideal para a realidade local de Dourados-MS, porém seus dados não representaram a situação local medida in loco no horário mais quente do dia.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- R. C. Santos
- UFGD – Univ Federal da Grande Dourados, FCA, Dourados, MS, Brasil
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
31
|
Balboni A, Mollace C, Giunti M, Dondi F, Prosperi S, Battilani M. Investigation of the presence of canine adenovirus (CAdV) in owned dogs in Northern Italy. Res Vet Sci 2014; 97:631-6. [PMID: 25468801 DOI: 10.1016/j.rvsc.2014.10.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [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: 01/09/2014] [Revised: 10/08/2014] [Accepted: 10/27/2014] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
The use of a modified live canine adenovirus (CAdV) vaccine has greatly reduced the incidence of infectious canine hepatitis (ICH) in dogs. Nevertheless, cases of CAdV type 1 and 2 (CAdV-1 and CAdV-2) infection have been recently reported posing questions about the epidemiological situation of CAdV in dogs. In order to assess the presence of CAdV, samples from 51 dogs presented at a Veterinary Teaching Hospital in Bologna, Italy, for reasons unrelated with CAdV infection, were tested with a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assay for CAdV. Thirty dogs (58.8%) were PCR positive for CAdV-2 infection and four of them (7.8%) were positive for CAdV-1. Sequence analysis performed on the obtained PCR products suggests that a genetically stable CAdV-1 strain and different CAdV-2 strains circulate in the canine population examined and that coinfections are relatively frequent.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- A Balboni
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum, University of Bologna, Via Tolara di Sopra 50, Ozzano dell'Emilia, Bologna 40064, Italy
| | - C Mollace
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum, University of Bologna, Via Tolara di Sopra 50, Ozzano dell'Emilia, Bologna 40064, Italy
| | - M Giunti
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum, University of Bologna, Via Tolara di Sopra 50, Ozzano dell'Emilia, Bologna 40064, Italy
| | - F Dondi
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum, University of Bologna, Via Tolara di Sopra 50, Ozzano dell'Emilia, Bologna 40064, Italy
| | - S Prosperi
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum, University of Bologna, Via Tolara di Sopra 50, Ozzano dell'Emilia, Bologna 40064, Italy
| | - M Battilani
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum, University of Bologna, Via Tolara di Sopra 50, Ozzano dell'Emilia, Bologna 40064, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Scagliarini A, Piquemal D, Trentin B, Merkoci A, De la Escosura A, Altet L, Sanchez A, Francino O, Delledonne M, Gallina L, Balboni A, Battilani M, Temporin S. Point of care diagnostics for rapid and cheap companion animals’ pathogen detection (POC4PETS). Int J Infect Dis 2014. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijid.2014.03.1197] [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] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
|
33
|
Lecis R, Tore G, Scagliarini A, Antuofermo E, Dedola C, Cacciotto C, Dore GM, Coradduzza E, Gallina L, Battilani M, Anfossi AG, Muzzeddu M, Chessa B, Pittau M, Alberti A. Equus asinus papillomavirus (EaPV1) provides new insights into equine papillomavirus diversity. Vet Microbiol 2014; 170:213-23. [PMID: 24636161 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetmic.2014.02.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [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: 11/16/2013] [Revised: 01/28/2014] [Accepted: 02/04/2014] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
We detected a novel papillomavirus (EaPV1) from healthy skin and from sun associated cutaneous lesions of an Asinara (Sardinia, Italy) white donkey reared in captivity in a wildlife recovery centre. The entire genome of EaPV1 was cloned, sequenced, and characterised. Genome is 7467 bp long, and shows some characteristic elements of horse papillomaviruses, including a small untranslated region between the early and late regions and the lack of the retinoblastoma tumour suppressor binding domain LXCXE in E7. Additionally, a typical E6 ORF is missing. EaPV1 DNA was detected in low copies in normal skin of white and grey donkeys of the Asinara Island, and does not transform rodent fibroblasts in standard transformation assays. Pairwise nucleotide alignments and phylogenetic analyses based on concatenated E1-E2-L1 amino acid sequences revealed the highest similarity with the Equine papillomavirus type 1. The discovery of EaPV1, the prototype of a novel genus and the first papillomavirus isolated in donkeys, confirms a broad diversity in Equidae papillomaviruses. Taken together, data suggest that EaPV1 is a non-malignant papillomavirus adapted to healthy skin of donkeys.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- R Lecis
- Dipartimento di Medicina Veterinaria, Università degli Studi di Sassari, via Vienna 2, 07100 11 Sassari, Italy
| | - G Tore
- Dipartimento di Medicina Veterinaria, Università degli Studi di Sassari, via Vienna 2, 07100 11 Sassari, Italy
| | - A Scagliarini
- Dipartimento di Scienze Mediche Veterinarie, Alma Mater Studiorum Università di Bologna, via Tolara di sopra 50, 40064 Ozzano Emilia, Bologna, Italy
| | - E Antuofermo
- Dipartimento di Medicina Veterinaria, Università degli Studi di Sassari, via Vienna 2, 07100 11 Sassari, Italy
| | - C Dedola
- Dipartimento di Medicina Veterinaria, Università degli Studi di Sassari, via Vienna 2, 07100 11 Sassari, Italy
| | - C Cacciotto
- Dipartimento di Medicina Veterinaria, Università degli Studi di Sassari, via Vienna 2, 07100 11 Sassari, Italy
| | - G M Dore
- Dipartimento di Medicina Veterinaria, Università degli Studi di Sassari, via Vienna 2, 07100 11 Sassari, Italy
| | - E Coradduzza
- Dipartimento di Medicina Veterinaria, Università degli Studi di Sassari, via Vienna 2, 07100 11 Sassari, Italy
| | - L Gallina
- Dipartimento di Medicina Veterinaria, Università degli Studi di Sassari, via Vienna 2, 07100 11 Sassari, Italy
| | - M Battilani
- Dipartimento di Scienze Mediche Veterinarie, Alma Mater Studiorum Università di Bologna, via Tolara di sopra 50, 40064 Ozzano Emilia, Bologna, Italy
| | - A G Anfossi
- Dipartimento di Medicina Veterinaria, Università degli Studi di Sassari, via Vienna 2, 07100 11 Sassari, Italy
| | - M Muzzeddu
- Centro Fauna Bonassai, Olmedo, Sassari, Italy
| | - B Chessa
- Dipartimento di Medicina Veterinaria, Università degli Studi di Sassari, via Vienna 2, 07100 11 Sassari, Italy
| | - M Pittau
- Dipartimento di Medicina Veterinaria, Università degli Studi di Sassari, via Vienna 2, 07100 11 Sassari, Italy
| | - A Alberti
- Dipartimento di Medicina Veterinaria, Università degli Studi di Sassari, via Vienna 2, 07100 11 Sassari, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Scagliarini A, Gallina L, Battilani M, Turrini F, Savini F, Lavazza A, Chiari M, Coradduzza E, Peli A, Erdélyi K, Alberti A. Cervus elaphus papillomavirus (CePV1): New insights on viral evolution in deer. Vet Microbiol 2013; 165:252-9. [DOI: 10.1016/j.vetmic.2013.03.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2012] [Revised: 02/25/2013] [Accepted: 03/01/2013] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
|
35
|
Balboni A, Verin R, Morandi F, Poli A, Prosperi S, Battilani M. Molecular epidemiology of canine adenovirus type 1 and type 2 in free-ranging red foxes (Vulpes vulpes) in Italy. Vet Microbiol 2013. [DOI: 10.1016/j.vetmic.2012.11.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
|
36
|
Battilani M, Balboni A, Giunti M, Prosperi S. Co-infection with feline and canine parvovirus in a cat. Vet Ital 2013; 49:127-129. [PMID: 23564594] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
In this study we reported a case of co-infection with canine parvovirus (CPV) type 2a and feline panleukopenia virus (FPV) in a 3-month-old male kitten, with the presence of a parvovirus variant which is a true intermediate between CPV and FPV. The report of a viral variant which contained FPV- and CPV-specific epitopes stresses the importance of the mechanism of multistep mutation in the production of new variants and in the emergence of new viruses. This type of multistep adaptation has already been documented during the emergence of CPV and on the basis of our results, it was hypothesized that CPV had presumably started a new process of readaptation in the feline host, confirming the importance of viral host switching as a mechanism for the emergence of new viruses.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mara Battilani
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum-University of Bologna, Via Tolara di Sopra 50-40064 Ozzano Emilia (BO), Italy.
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
37
|
Balboni A, Battilani M, Prosperi S. The SARS-like coronaviruses: the role of bats and evolutionary relationships with SARS coronavirus. New Microbiol 2012; 35:1-16. [PMID: 22378548] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2011] [Accepted: 10/31/2011] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
Bats represent an order of great evolutionary success, with elevated geographical diffusion and species diversity. This order harbors viruses of high variability which have a great possibility of acquiring the capacity of infecting other animals,including humans. Bats are the natural reservoir for several viruses genetically closely related to the SARScoronavirus which is the etiological agent of severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS), a human epidemic which emerged in China in 2002-2003. In the last few years, it has been discovered that the association between coronaviruses and bats is a worldwide phenomenon, and it has been hypothesised that all mammalian coronaviruses were derived from ancestral viruses residing in bats. This review analyzes the role of bats as a reservoir of zoonotic viruses focusing more extensively on SARS-related coronaviruses and taking into account the role of African and European strains in the evolutionary history of these viruses.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Balboni
- Dipartimento di Scienze Mediche Veterinarie, Università di Bologna, Ozzano dell'Emilia, Bologna, Italy
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
38
|
Balboni A, Gallina L, Palladini A, Prosperi S, Battilani M. A real-time PCR assay for bat SARS-like coronavirus detection and its application to Italian greater horseshoe bat faecal sample surveys. ScientificWorldJournal 2011; 2012:989514. [PMID: 22654650 PMCID: PMC3353321 DOI: 10.1100/2012/989514] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2011] [Accepted: 11/16/2011] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Bats are source of coronaviruses closely related to the severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) virus. Numerous studies have been carried out to identify new bat viruses related to SARS-coronavirus (bat-SARS-like CoVs) using a reverse-transcribed-polymerase chain reaction assay. However, a qualitative PCR could underestimate the prevalence of infection, affecting the epidemiological evaluation of bats in viral ecology. In this work an SYBR Green-real time PCR assay was developed for diagnosing infection with SARS-related coronaviruses from bat guano and was applied as screening tool in a survey carried out on 45 greater horseshoe bats (Rhinolophus ferrumequinum) sampled in Italy in 2009. The assay showed high sensitivity and reproducibility. Its application on bats screening resulted in a prevalence of 42%. This method could be suitable as screening tool in epidemiological surveys about the presence of bat-SARS-like CoVs, consequently to obtain a more realistic scenario of the viral prevalence in the population.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Balboni
- Dipartimento di Scienze Mediche Veterinarie, Alma Mater Studiorum-Università di Bologna, Via Tolara di Sopra 50, 40064 Ozzano Emilia, Italy
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
39
|
Battilani M, Balboni A, Ustulin M, Giunti M, Scagliarini A, Prosperi S. Genetic complexity and multiple infections with more Parvovirus species in naturally infected cats. Vet Res 2011; 42:43. [PMID: 21366901 PMCID: PMC3059301 DOI: 10.1186/1297-9716-42-43] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2010] [Accepted: 09/14/2010] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Parvoviruses of carnivores include three closely related autonomous parvoviruses: canine parvovirus (CPV), feline panleukopenia virus (FPV) and mink enteritis virus (MEV). These viruses cause a variety of serious diseases, especially in young patients, since they have a remarkable predilection for replication in rapidly dividing cells. FPV is not the only parvovirus species which infects cats; in addition to MEV, the new variants of canine parvovirus, CPV-2a, 2b and 2c have also penetrated the feline host-range, and they are able to infect and replicate in cats, causing diseases indistinguishable from feline panleukopenia. Furthermore, as cats are susceptible to both CPV-2 and FPV viruses, superinfection and co-infection with multiple parvovirus strains may occur, potentially facilitating recombination and high genetic heterogeneity. In the light of the importance of cats as a potential source of genetic diversity for parvoviruses and, since feline panleukopenia virus has re-emerged as a major cause of mortality in felines, the present study has explored the molecular characteristics of parvovirus strains circulating in cat populations. The most significant findings reported in this study were (a) the detection of mixed infection FPV/CPV with the presence of one parvovirus variant which is a true intermediate between FPV/CPV and (b) the quasispecies cloud size of one CPV sample variant 2c. In conclusion, this study provides new important results about the evolutionary dynamics of CPV infections in cats, showing that CPV has presumably started a new process of readaptation in feline hosts.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mara Battilani
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum, University of Bologna, Italy.
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
40
|
Rossi G, Cornaro C, Battilani M, Pocacqua V, Paltrinieri S. Production of IFN-γ in feline whole blood after incubation with potential T-cell epitopes of the nucleocapsid protein of feline coronavirus. Vet Microbiol 2011; 150:248-56. [PMID: 21376481 PMCID: PMC7117359 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetmic.2011.02.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2010] [Revised: 12/20/2010] [Accepted: 02/08/2011] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Interferon gamma (IFN-γ) plays an important role in cell mediated responses against mutated feline coronavirus strains (FCoV) involved in the pathogenesis of feline infectious peritonitis (FIP). The aim of this study was to establish a combined in silico and in vitro approach to assess feline leukocyte production of IFN-γ in response to selected peptides of the nucleocapside protein (N) of FCoVs. To this aim, we designed, through a bioinformatic approach, 8 potentially immunogenic peptides from the protein N corresponding to sequences of residues 14, 182, 198 detected only in FCoVs from FIP cats (virulent strains), only in FCoVs from healthy cats (avirulent strains) and both in FIP and in healthy cats (mixed strains). The peptides or a sham solution were incubated with whole blood from 16 cats (7 healthy and 9 with chronic diseases other than FIP) and IFN-γ concentration was measured on plasma using an ELISA system. RT-PCR expression of IFN-γ mRNA was also evaluated after incubation of the peptides or a sham solution with whole blood from 4 clinically healthy cats. The mean plasma concentration of IFN-γ in samples incubated with peptides decreased and the expression of IFN-γmRNA did not change compared with the sham solution, except for some cats with chronic diseases (which probably have a “pre-activated” immune response). These cats responded to “avirulent” or “mixed” peptides by increasing the concentration of IFN-γ and the expression of IFN-γ mRNA. The combined approach employed in this study allowed us to identify potentially immunogenic peptides of FCoV N protein that can modulate the production of IFN-γ especially in cats with a “pre-activated” cell mediated response.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- G Rossi
- Department of Veterinary Pathology, Hygiene and Public Health, Unit of Veterinary General Pathology and Parasitology, University of Milan, Via Celoria 10, 20133 Milan, Italy
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
41
|
Donati M, Di Francesco A, Delucca F, Di Paolo M, Battilani M, Balboni A, Baldelli R, Cevenini R. Antibody-neutralizing activity against all urogenital Chlamydia trachomatis serovars in Chlamydia suis-infected pigs. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2010; 61:125-8. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1574-695x.2010.00748.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
|
42
|
Vaccari F, Battilani M, Benazzi C, Morandi F, Peli A, Scagliarini A. FCV haemorragic-like disease in Italy: biological relevance of genetic diversification and quasispecies in strains isolated from affected cats. J Biotechnol 2010. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiotec.2010.08.028] [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] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
|
43
|
Vaccari F, Battilani M, Tasco G, Casadio R, Scagliarini A. Comparative analysis of pseudocowpoxvirus VEGF genes: evidence for interspecies recombination and different pattern of receptor activation. J Biotechnol 2010. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiotec.2010.10.014] [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] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
|
44
|
Battilani M, Balboni A, Bassani M, Scagliarini A, Paltrinieri S, Prosperi S. Sequence analysis of the nucleocapsid gene of feline coronaviruses circulating in Italy. New Microbiol 2010; 33:387-392. [PMID: 21213598] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/30/2023]
Abstract
Molecular analysis of the N genes of feline coronaviruses (FCoV) strains detected in naturally infected cats were carried out to investigate the genetic diversity among these viruses. Phylogeny showed a general clustering trend on the basis of geographic origin rather than on virulence characteristics. The analysis of the pattern of nucleotide substitutions disclosed "hot spots" sites which may represent immunological domains. In conclusion, our results demonstrate that the N gene does not carry mutations associated with the pathotypical switch FECV --> FIPV. During persistent infection, the individual qualitative immune response might address the accumulations of mutations in the N gene and the development of FIP.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mara Battilani
- Dipartimento di Sanità Pubblica Veterinaria e Patologia Animale, Alma Mater Studiorum, Università& di Bologna, Italy.
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
45
|
Giunti M, Peli A, Battilani M, Zacchini S, Militerno G, Otto CM. Evaluation of CALC-I gene (CALCA) expression in tissues of dogs with signs of the systemic inflammatory response syndrome. J Vet Emerg Crit Care (San Antonio) 2010; 20:523-7. [PMID: 20955304 DOI: 10.1111/j.1476-4431.2010.00575.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To perform a qualitative evaluation of procalcitonin gene (CALCA) expression in a tissue-specific manner in dogs with signs of the systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS). DESIGN Observational study. SETTING University Veterinary Teaching Hospital. ANIMALS Nine clinical cases and 5 research dogs. INTERVENTIONS None. MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS Fresh tissue samples (thyroid, lung, liver, spleen) from 9 dogs that died with a diagnosis of parvoviral infection or SIRS were collected and immediately stored at -80 °C. Diagnosis of parvoviral infection was based on clinical signs, positive fecal antigen test, and confirmed by polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Clinical diagnosis of SIRS was based on the clinical criteria reported in veterinary literature. Necropsy was performed on all subjects in the study. Furthermore, thyroid, lung, liver, spleen were collected from 5 normal research dogs immediately postmortem for testing. The 9 dogs with a clinical diagnosis of SIRS died from either parvovirus (n=5), bacterial sepsis (n=3), or neoplasia (n=1). CALCA was amplified by PCR in the following samples: thyroid (9/9), spleen (6/9), lung (4/9), liver (3/9). Only thyroid expressed CALCA in the 5 normal dogs. CONCLUSIONS In SIRS, extrathyroidal transcription of CALCA was documented. Quantitative analysis (real-time polymerase chain reaction) in a wider population of SIRS and normal dogs will provide essential information about the extent and source of extrathyroidal expression of canine CALCA induced by septic and nonseptic systemic inflammation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Massimo Giunti
- Veterinary Clinical Department, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy.
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
46
|
Cecchinato M, Catelli E, Lupini C, Ricchizzi E, Clubbe J, Battilani M, Naylor CJ. Avian metapneumovirus (AMPV) attachment protein involvement in probable virus evolution concurrent with mass live vaccine introduction. Vet Microbiol 2010; 146:24-34. [PMID: 20447777 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetmic.2010.04.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2010] [Revised: 04/09/2010] [Accepted: 04/12/2010] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Avian metapneumoviruses detected in Northern Italy between 1987 and 2007 were sequenced in their fusion (F) and attachment (G) genes together with the same genes from isolates collected throughout western European prior to 1994. Fusion protein genes sequences were highly conserved while G protein sequences showed much greater heterogeneity. Phylogenetic studies based on both genes clearly showed that later Italian viruses were significantly different to all earlier virus detections, including early detections from Italy. Furthermore a serine residue in the G proteins and lysine residue in the fusion protein were exclusive to Italian viruses, indicating that later viruses probably arose within the country and the notion that these later viruses evolved from earlier Italian progenitors cannot be discounted. Biocomputing analysis applied to F and G proteins of later Italian viruses predicted that only G contained altered T cell epitopes. It appears likely that Italian field viruses evolved in response to selection pressure from vaccine induced immunity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mattia Cecchinato
- Dipartimento di Sanità Pubblica, Patologia Comparata e Igiene Veterinaria, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Padua, Viale dell'Università 16, 35020 Legnaro, PD, Italy.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
47
|
Dal Pozzo F, Galligioni V, Vaccari F, Gallina L, Battilani M, Scagliarini A. Antiviral efficacy of EICAR against canine distemper virus (CDV) in vitro. Res Vet Sci 2009; 88:339-44. [PMID: 19781726 DOI: 10.1016/j.rvsc.2009.08.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2008] [Revised: 07/15/2009] [Accepted: 08/20/2009] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Canine distemper virus (CDV) is a highly contagious pathogen of carnivores. In dogs, the disease is characterized by high lethality rates and no specific antiviral therapy is available. The aim of this study was to verify the in vitro antiviral activity of the 5-ethynyl-1-beta-d-ribofuranosylimidazole-4-carboxamide (EICAR) and to compare it with the 1-(beta-d-ribofuranosyl)-1,2,4-triazole-3-carboxamide (ribavirin, RBV). EICAR was more active than RBV against CDV replication, while both molecules exhibited low selectivity indexes. A reversal of their antiviral activity was observed after addition of guanosine, suggesting their involvement in the inhibition of the inosine monophosphate dehydrogenase enzyme (IMPDH). RBV and EICAR had a time- and concentration-dependent anti-CDV activity, mainly displayed during the first 10h post-infection. The involvement of the inhibition of the viral RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (vRdRp) is discussed, as well as the role of CDV as a model to study more potent and selective antiviral molecules active against other Paramyxoviridae.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fabiana Dal Pozzo
- Department of Veterinary Public Health and Animal Pathology, Alma Mater Studiorum, Università di Bologna via Tolara di Sopra 50, 40064 Ozzano Emila, Bologna, Italy
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
48
|
Ciulli S, Galletti E, Battilani M, Galligione V, Prosperi S. Analysis of variability and antigenic peptide prediction of E2 BVDV glycoprotein in a mucosal-disease affected animal. Vet Res Commun 2009; 33 Suppl 1:125-7. [DOI: 10.1007/s11259-009-9267-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
|
49
|
Ciulli S, Galletti E, Battilani M, Scagliarini A, Gentile A, Morganti L, Prosperi S. Genetic typing of bovine viral diarrhoea virus: evidence of an increasing number of variants in Italy. New Microbiol 2008; 31:263-271. [PMID: 18623993] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
Bovine Viral Diarrhoea Virus (BVDV) is responsible worldwide for severe economic losses on cattle farms. BVDV is an RNA virus with a high genome variability having practical consequences on epidemiology, diagnosis and disease control. Genetic monitoring was suggested as the first step in BVDV control. Thirty-seven Bovine Viral Diarrhoea Viruses were identified in persistently infected cattle, mucosal disease-affected animals and in bulk milk, and were characterised genetically. The 5'UTR region was amplified and sequenced, and a phylogenetic analysis was carried out comparing all the Italian sequences of BVDV available from the Genbank database. An unusual number of persistent infected animals was evidenced on more than one farm. Phylogenetic analysis attributed all our viruses to BVDV type I and distinguished four different subgroups inside this genotype. Analysis of old and new viruses revealed the circulation of viruses classified in subgroups BVDV Ia and Ij never reported in Italy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sara Ciulli
- Department of Veterinary Public Health and Animal Pathology, Alma Mater Studiorum, University of Bologna, Ozzano Emilia, Italy.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
50
|
Affiliation(s)
- M Battilani
- Department of Veterinary Public Health and Animal Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy.
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|