The Effects of Honeysuckle (Lonicera caerulea L.) Berry Iridoid-Anthocyanin Extract on the Intestinal and Muscle Histopathology in Mice during Experimental Trichinellosis

The aim of the study was to determine the effect of iridoid-anthocyanin extract from honeysuckle (Lonicera caerulea L.) (LC) berries on histopathological changes in the intestines and muscles during experimental trichinellosis in mice. The LC extract was administered to uninfected mice (LC group) and Trichinella-spiralis-infected mice (T+LC) orally at a dose of 2 g/kg bw, six times at 24 h intervals, from day 3 prior to infection to day 3 post-infection (dpi). Jejunum samples were collected on 5, 7, 14, and 21 dpi, and their histological assessment involved the villus height to crypt depth ratio (VH/CD), goblet cell (GC) number, and morphological changes. In the T. spiralis-infected muscles, the extent of inflammatory infiltration on the 14th and 21st dpi was assessed. LC in the infected mice restored the VH/CD ratio to control values on 14 dpi. A beneficial effect of the LC extract on the villus height was also observed 14 dpi in the LC and T+LC groups. No differences in the extent of inflammatory infiltration in the muscles between the T+LC and T groups were observed. In conclusion, the iridoid-anthocyanin extract from honeysuckle berry contributed to alleviating the symptoms of the intestinal phase of T. spiralis infection.

Evaluation of Immunotropic Activity of Iridoid-Anthocyanin Extract of Honeysuckle Berries (Lonicera caerulea L.) in the Course of Experimental Trichinellosis in Mice

Our experiment determined the immunotropic activity of a natural, iridoid-anthocyanin extract from honeysuckle berry (Lonicera caerulea L.) (LC). The extract was administered to mice infected with Trichinella spiralis, orally at a dose of 2 g/kg bw, six times at 24 h intervals (from day 3 prior to the infection to day 3 post-infection (dpi) with T. spiralis. At 5, 7, 14, and 21 dpi, samples of blood, spleen, and mesenteric lymph nodes (MLN) were collected, and isolated lymphocytes were analyzed by flow cytometry. The splenocyte proliferation was estimated with MTT testing, and the intensity of intestinal and muscle infection was also studied. LC stimulated the local immune system by inducing lymphocyte proliferation in the spleen 7 dpi and altered the percentage and absolute count of B (CD19⁺) and T (CD3⁺, CD8⁺) cells 7, 14, and 21 dpi in the peripheral blood. LC extract affected the dynamics of expulsion of adult Trichinella from the intestines and prolonged the intestinal phase of the infection but did not change the number of larvae in the muscles. These results suggest that Lonicera caerulea L. fruit extract modulates murine cellular immune response during intestinal phase of T. spiralis infection but shows no antiparasitic activity.

Cryptosporidium spp. in dogs and cats in Poland

INTRODUCTION

Cryptosporidium spp. are common protozoan parasites of animals and humans. Due to their zoonotic potential it is important to know their species and prevalence in dogs and cats.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of the study was to determine the occurrence and molecular characteristics of Cryptosporidium spp. in dogs and cats in Poland.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

A total of 365 faecal samples (264 dogs and 101 cats) collected from animals living in Poland were analyzed using the Ziehl-Neelsen staining method and genus-specific PCR assay to amplify the Cryptosporidium 18S rRNA gene.

RESULTS

Cryptosporidium were found in 11 out of the 365 examined stool samples (3%). PCR analysis identified Cryptosporidium in 9 out of 264 canine stool samples (3.4%) and 2 out of 101 feline specimens (2%). DNA sequencing confirmed the presence of C. canis and C. parvum in dogs and C. felis in cats.

CONCLUSIONS

This is the first molecular characterization of Cryptosporidium spp. infection in dogs and cats in Poland.

Effects of Selected Prebiotics or Synbiotics Administered in ovo on Lymphocyte Subsets in Bursa of the Fabricius, Thymus, and Spleen in Non-Immunized and Immunized Chicken Broilers

Simple Summary

Probiotics, prebiotics, and synbiotics may be used as feed additives instead of banned antibiotic-based growth promoters. These bioactive compounds applied in ovo have beneficial effects on intestinal bifidobacteria, decrease the number of detrimental bacteria in the gut, stimulate the development of gut-associated lymphoid tissues (GALT), and modulate the development of lymphoid organs. The aim of our study was to determine whether the specific in ovo-delivered prebiotics and synbiotics affected the lymphocyte subsets of the bursa of the Fabricius, thymus, and spleen in non-immunized chicken broilers and in birds immunized with T-dependent (sheep red blood cells—SRBC) and T-independent (dextran—DEX) antigens. This study demonstrated that in ovo administration of prebiotics and synbiotics is a promising approach for enhancing chicken immune system functions. We conclude that a combination of inulin and Lactococcus lactis subsp. lactis IBB SL1 was the most effective of the tested compounds in the stimulation of the chicken immune system.

Abstract

The effects of in ovo-delivered prebiotics and synbiotics on the lymphocyte subsets of the lymphoid organs in non-immunized 7-day-old broiler chickens and in non-immunized, sheep red blood cells (SRBC)-immunized, and dextran (DEX)-immunized 21- and 35-day-old birds were studied. The substances were injected on the 12th day of egg incubation: Prebiotic1 group (Pre1) with a solution of inulin, Prebiotic2 group (Pre2) with a solution of Bi²tos (non-digestive transgalacto-oligosaccharides), Synbiotic1 group (Syn1) with inulin and Lactococcus lactis subsp. lactis IBB SL1, and Synbiotic2 group (Syn2) with Bi²tos and Lactococcus lactis subsp. cremoris IBB SC1. In 7-day-old chicks, a decrease in T splenocytes was noticed in all groups. The most pronounced effect in 21- and 35-day-old birds was an increase in TCRγδ⁺ cells in Syn1 and Syn2 groups. A decrease in bursal B cells was observed in DEX-immunized Pre1 group (21-day-old birds), and in the Syn1 group in non-immunized and SRBC-immunized 35-day-old birds. An increase in double-positive lymphocytes was observed in Pre1 (35-day-old birds) and Pre2 (immunized 21-day-old birds) groups. In Pre1 and Syn1 groups (21- and 35-day-old), an increase in B splenocytes and a decrease in T splenocytes were observed. We concluded that Syn1 was the most effective in the stimulation of the chicken immune system.

Effect of aqueous extract from Scutellaria baicalensis Georgi roots on CD4+ and CD8+ T cell responses during experimental infection with Trichinella spiralis in mice

The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of aqueous extract from Scutellaria baicalensis Georgi roots (SB) on blood parameters and immune response during an experimental trichinellosis. A total of 60 mice infected with 200 Trichinella spiralis larvae were assigned into two groups. One of them served as a control and the second received SB extract orally from day 5 before infection to day 28 after infection (dpi). Blood was sampled at 7, 14, 21 dpi. Lymphocytes obtained from the spleen and mesenteric lymph nodes (MLN) at 7, 14, 21, and 28 dpi were counted, CD4+ and CD8+ subpopulations were analyzed by flow cytometry, and lymphocyte proliferation was estimated with colorimetric (MTT) assay. The intensity of intestinal and muscle invasion was also studied. SB caused a remarkable elevation of banded neutrophils in the blood at 7 dpi. SB increased ConA-stimulated splenocyte proliferation and CD4+ and CD8+ splenocyte subsets at 14 and 21 dpi, whereas MLN lymphocyte subset stimulation involved only CD4+ at 14 dpi. After administration of SB a downward trend in the number of T. spiralis larvae in the muscle was observed. These results suggest that Scutellaria baicalensis root extract stimulates murine cellular immune response during intestinal phase of T. spiralis infection.

Suitability of selected culture media for Blastocystis spp

Blastocystis is a common enteric protozoan of humans and various species of animals. Culture and microscopic examination of fecal samples is the conventional method for identifying four major forms of Blastocystis (vacuolar, granular, non-vacuolar or cystic). In this article, we com- pared eight liquid media for cultivation of Blastocystis spp. Study material included fecal samples from clinically healthy pigs. Significant differences in the growth of Blastocystis on individual media were observed.

Low-Level Light Therapy Protects Red Blood Cells Against Oxidative Stress and Hemolysis During Extracorporeal Circulation

Aim: An activation of non-specific inflammatory response, coagulation disorder, and blood morphotic elements damage are the main side effects of the extracorporeal circulation (ECC). Red-to-near-infrared radiation (R/NIR) is thought to be capable of stabilizing red blood cell (RBC) membrane through increasing its resistance to destructive factors. We focused on the development of a method using low-level light therapy (LLLT) in the spectral range of R/NIR which could reduce blood trauma caused by the heart-lung machine during surgery. Methods: R/NIR emitter was adjusted in terms of geometry and optics to ECC circuit. The method of extracorporeal blood photobiomodulation was tested during in vivo experiments in an animal, porcine model (1 h of ECC plus 23 h of animal observation). A total of 24 sows weighing 90-100 kg were divided into two equal groups: control one and LLLT. Blood samples were taken during the experiment to determine changes in blood morphology [RBC and white blood cell (WBC) counts, hemoglobin (Hgb)], indicators of hemolysis [plasma-free hemoglobin (PFHgb), serum bilirubin concentration, serum lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) activity], and oxidative stress markers [thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) concentration, total antioxidant capacity (TAC)]. Results: In the control group, a rapid systemic decrease in WBC count during ECC was accompanied by a significant increase in RBC membrane lipids peroxidation, while in the LLLT group the number of WBC and TBARS concentration both remained relatively constant, indicating limitation of the inflammatory process. These results were consistent with the change in the hemolysis markers like PFHgb, LDH, and serum bilirubin concentration, which were significantly reduced in LLLT group. No differences in TAC, RBC count, and Hgb concentration were detected. Conclusion: We presented the applicability of the LLLT with R/NIR radiation to blood trauma reduction during ECC.

The evaluation of immunogenic impact of selected bacterial, recombinant Hsp60 antigens in DBA/2J mice

Heat Shock Proteins (HSP) are highly conserved proteins that are widely spread throughout all organisms. They function in the cytoplasm as chaperones; however, they could be expressed on the cell surface. It has been shown that Hsp60 obtained from gram-negative bacteria are able to stimulate cells of the acquired and innate immune system. The aim of this study was the evaluation of the immunogenic properties of recombinant Hsp60 proteins derived from four common pathogenic bacteria: Escherichia coli, Histophilus somni, Pasteurella multocida and Salmonella Enteritidis. The analysis of the humoral immune response in DBA/2J mice hyperimmunized with selected rHsp60 revealed high levels of IgG rHsp60-antibody with the predominance of the IgG₁ subclass, in the reaction with both homologous and heterologous antigens. The presence of IgG_2a and IgG_2b was also observed; however, no antibodies of subclass IgG₃ were detected. The comparison of plasma IgG antibody reactivity of mice immunized with two different doses of rHsp60 (10/20 μg) showed that the lower dose was sufficient to induce a strong humoral response. The reactivity of the IgG rHsp60-antibody with whole bacterial cells showed a significantly higher reaction with H. somni compared with other pathogens. It was demonstrated that the addition of all rHsp60 with polymyxin B to the culture medium stimulated splenocytes isolated from hyperimmunized mice to release IL-1β and IL-6. As a strong stimulator of the immune system, bacterial-origin Hsp60 seems to be an interesting potential component of subunit vaccines aimed at the development of protection for animals during infections caused by gram-negative bacteria.

Zoonotic microsporidia in dogs and cats in Poland

This study investigated the prevalence, genetic diversity, and zoonotic concerns of microsporidia in household dogs and cats in Poland. A total of 126 (82 dogs and 44 cats) fecal specimens were analyzed for the presence of specific DNA of Enterocytozoon bieneusi and Encephalitozoon spp. using a nested PCR protocol amplifying the internal transcribed spacer region of the rRNA gene. Microsporidia were found in 10 (7.9%) out of the 126 examined stool samples. Of the 82 dogs, 4 (4.9%) and 2 (2.4%) were positive for E. bieneusi (genotypes D and PtEbIX) and Encephalitozoon cuniculi genotype II, respectively. Of the 44 cats, 4 (9.1%) were positive for E. bieneusi (genotypes PtEbIX and eb52). Additionally, one cat (2.3%) was concurrently infected with E. bieneusi (PtEbIX) and E. cuniculi (genotype II). Considering that all detected microsporidia in dogs and cats have been previously associated with human microsporidiosis, companion animals may be a potential source of microsporidia infections in humans.

Morphology and molecular study of Fascioloides magna – a growing threat to cervids (Cervidae) in Poland

Introduction: The giant liver fluke, Fascioloides magna, has spread across Europe over the years posing a serious threat to the Polish cervid population. Material and Methods: Macroscopic and histopathological studies of the liver of 22 roe deer (Capreolus capreolus), 10 red deer (Cervus elaphus), and 6 fallow deer (Dama dama) were performed. Species determination of the recovered liver flukes and eggs was performed by PCR protocol amplifying fragments of ribosomal DNA (ITS2), according to a standard method. Results: The presence of F. magna was confirmed in three (13.6%) roe deer, seven (70.0%) red deer, and two (33.3%) fallow deer. The fluke eggs were found only in the stools of five red deer and one fallow deer. Conclusion: This study presents detailed pathological and histopathological changes in the liver of wild Polish cervids, including roe deer, which were subjected to such study for the first time. The hepatic lesions typical for different stages of liver cirrhosis varied depending on the host species and stage of the disease.

Molecular identification of Giardia duodenalis isolates from domestic dogs and cats in Wroclaw, Poland

INTRODUCTION

Giardia duodenalis (G. intestinalis) is a common protozoan causing gastrointestinal disorders in many species of mammals. The genus of Giardia has high molecular diversity. Dogs and cats, in addition to their typical infection with assemblages C, D and F, may be a reservoir of zoonotic assemblages (A and B).

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was a genetic characteristic of Giardia isolates of dogs and cats from the area of Wroclaw (Poland).

MATERIALS AND METHOD

A total of 128 and 33 faecal samples from dogs and cats, respectively, were analyzed by routine coprological methods. The animals were diagnosed on the presence of G. duodenalis antigens in faeces soluble with the use of SNAP Giardia (IDEXX Laboratories) immunosorbent assay. 27 DNA isolates of Giardia were subjected to molecular identification (PCR-RFLP).

RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS

The prevalence of G. duodenalis was 21.1% (27/128) in dogs and 15.1% (5/33) in cats. In dogs, C assemblage was present in 18 (81%) positive stool samples, D assemblage in 2 (9%) samples, B assemblage present in one (4.5%), and mixed assemblages (C and D) occurred in one (4.5%) sample. F assemblage was found in 4 (80%) cats' positive stool samples and A assemblage occurred in one case (20%). Confirmation of the presence of A and B zoonotic assemblages suggests that infected pets can be a threat to human health. This study describes for the first time the presence of mixed infections within host-specific C and D assemblages in dogs in Poland.

Effect of isosporiasis prevention with toltrazuril on long-term pig performance

The efficacy of toltrazuril treatment was assessed in two experiments in Polish swine herds. Experiment 1 included a toltrazuril treatment group, Group A (n = 410), and untreated control, Group B (n = 386). Time to sale in Group A was 108 days versus 120 days for Group B, with average body weights at sale of 114.2 kg and 108.8 kg, respectively (P < 0.05). In experiment 2, the health status and body weight gain of 238 piglets treated with toltrazuril (Group D) were compared to 235 untreated piglets (Group K). A similar difference was observed in average body weights of slaughtered animals, being on average 104 kg in Group D and 101 kg in Group K (P < 0.01). Animals from Group D were slaughtered 5 days earlier than animals from Group K (day 166 versus day 171). Data from clinical trials suggest treatment of coccidiosis with toltrazuril offering potential for improved animal welfare and yields, however this has remained unproven in field conditions in large swine production facilities. The present study confirms the efficacy of toltrazuril treatment when used in the field and the subsequent positive impact on time to weaning, time to market, and on weight gain at all time points.

Occurrence of tapeworms of the family Anoplocephalidae in herds of dairy cattle in Lesser Poland and in Lower Silesia, Poland

This study was performed to determine the tapeworm infection of grazing cattle in 11 dairy herds in Lower Silesia and Lesser Poland (Galicia). Rectal faecal samples were examined microscopically for tapeworm eggs by Willis-Shlaaf's flotation, Telemann's sedimentation (for fatty stools) and decantation method. Out of 182 cattle, 10 (5.5%) were found to be infected with tapeworms. The prevalence in 5 of 11 examined herds varied from 15.5 to 30.5% and was highest for animal being in the first lactation. Tapeworm eggs were detected in animals being in the first and second lactation (about three- to four-years-old cows). All the qualitative methods were effective in the diagnosis of tapeworm infection in cattle.

The effect of immunomodulating drugs on the percentage of apoptotic and necrotic lymphocytes in inflammatory infiltrations in the muscle tissue of mice infected with Trichinella spiralis

In order to determine the effect of apoptosis and necrosis on the intensity of the muscular phase of infection by Trichinella spiralis, male CFW mice were orally infected with T. spiralis larvae and treated with some immunomodulating drugs: calf thymus extract (TFX), lipopolysaccharide from Escherichia coli (LPS), and dexametasone (DEX). Treatment with TFX increased the proportion of apoptotic lymphocytes and decreased the proportion of necrotic lymphocytes from 14 to 60 days after infection in mice infected with T. spiralis. Treatment with LPS increased proportions of both apoptotic and necrotic lymphocytes from 21 to 60 days after infection, especially at 28 days after infection. Treatment with DEX increased the proportion of apoptotic lymphocytes only at 28 days after infection, and significantly increased the proportion of necrotic lymphocytes at 21 days after infection. Parasite load in the affected muscle tissue was significantly lower than the control in mice treated with TFX, not significantly different from the control in mice treated with LPS, and significantly higher than the control in mice treated with DEX. The results of the study suggest that the parasite made an effort to reduce the effectivity of the host immune response in order to ensure its own survival.

Morphological and biochemical changes in the blood of horses naturally infected with Gasterophilus sp. larvae

Gasterophilus sp. constitute a group of specific parasites, which larval forms are found in horses and other phylogenetically related species--donkeys, mules and zebras. Their invasion is associated with marked fluctuations of hematological and biochemical blood parameters, including the activity of many enzymes and the electrolyte concentration. The purpose of the study was to analyze changes in selected biochemical and morphological blood parameters of horses infected with botfly larvae. The experimental group was formed of horses infested by Gasterophilus sp. larvae whereas the control group consisted of noninfested horses. The study was performed in two periods: at the beginning and at the most advanced invasion. Significant differences between horses at early and late stage of invasion were found in terms of erythrocyte parameters. Mean red and white blood cell counts and mean hemoglobin concentration were lower in horses with late invasion compared to those with the invasion at its early stage. The values of all the aforementioned erythrocyte parameters remained within the reference limits for both groups of horses. Moreover, both in horses infected with botfly larvae and in those from the control group, biochemical parameters studied did not exceed the respective reference limits. Our results suggest that larvae of botfly which colonize the gastrointestinal tract have relatively insignificant influence on the basic hematological and biochemical parameters of horse blood.

Accidental discovery of Trypanosoma theileri in the in vitro culture of the heifer lymphocytes

The diagnostics of the Trypanosoma sp. invasion by means of the classic methods i.e. the methods of thin smears or thick drop or even the microhematocrite method, especially when intensity of infection is low, is very difficult. In our climatic zone, trypanosomosis is usually considered as an exotic disease. An opportunistic model of the infection with the parasite and a lack of current data on the prevalence of T. theileri in the cattle in Poland cause that it is neglected as a potential reason of contamination of tissue cultures in cattle. We showed the presence of T. theileri in culture of isolated lymphocytes from one of six heifers examined. It seems that the prevalence of the invasion of the parasite is not very intense but it should be considered as a possible threat for bovine cell culture. It is also worth including this parasitosis in the differential diagnostics of other diseases that are infectious and/or proceed with symptoms of immunosuppression.

Differential effect of IFN-tau on proliferation and distribution of lymphocyte subsets in one-way mixed lymphocyte reaction in cows and heifers

IFN-tau is a signaling protein secreted by the bovine conceptus during the peri-implantation period and responsible for pregnancy recognition. Its main role is the prevention of pulsatile release of luteolytic PGF2alpha, but it also exerts immunomodulatory activities characteristic for other type I interferons. The aim of the study was to examine the effect of IFN-tau on the proliferation and distribution of peripheral blood lymphocyte subsets during one-way mixed lymphocyte reaction (MLR) in cows and heifers. IFN-tau inhibited the proliferative response of lymphocytes in MLR both in cows and heifers in a dose-dependent manner, but cow lymphocytes were less susceptible than those ones from heifers. It was also showed that IFN-tau differentially changed lymphocyte subsets distribution in MLR in cows and heifers. In cows, the relative percentage of CD8(+) cells after MRL in the presence of IFN-tau was significantly lower than in heifers. Differential effect of rIFN-tau on proliferation and lymphocyte subsets distribution in a one-way MRL in cows and heifers indicated that the age of the mother is an important factor in immunomodulatory effect towards developing bovine embryo.