ORCID Profile
0000-0001-8888-0046
Current Organisation
University of Helsinki
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Infectious Diseases | Biodiscovery | Environmental Biotechnology | Other Biological Sciences | Biological Sciences not elsewhere classified |
Expanding Knowledge in the Biological Sciences | Expanding Knowledge in the Agricultural and Veterinary Sciences | Infectious Diseases
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 12-2010
DOI: 10.1016/J.MCP.2010.07.005
Abstract: We genetically classified Echinococcus granulosus from humans, cattle and camels in Libya utilizing DNA regions (designated pcox1 and pnad1) within the cytochrome c oxidase subunit 1 (cox1) and NADH dehydrogenase 1 (nad1) mitochondrial genes, respectively. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-based single-strand conformation polymorphism (SSCP) analysis of pcox1 and pnad1 licons derived from genomic DNA s les from in idual cysts (n = 176) revealed four distinct electrophoretic profiles for each locus. Direct sequencing of selected licons representing each of these profiles defined four different sequence types for each locus, which were present in five different combinations (designated haplotypes A-E) amongst all 176 isolates. Phylogenetic analysis of concatenated sequence data for these five haplotypes, together with a range of well-defined reference sequences, inferred that all cyst isolates from humans (n = 55) and a small number from cattle (13% of 38) belonged to the G1-G3 complex of E. granulosus (or E. granulosus sensu stricto), whereas most (87%) cysts from cattle and all 83 of them from camels were linked to the G6-G10 complex (or Echinococcus canadensis). The present study provides a foundation for future large-scale studies of the epidemiology and ecology of E. granulosus in Libya and other African countries.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 12-2017
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 06-2016
DOI: 10.1016/J.MEEGID.2015.06.029
Abstract: High-throughput molecular and computer technologies have become instrumental for systems biological explorations of parasites. Investigating the genomes and transcriptomes of different developmental stages of parasitic nematodes can provide insights into gene expression, regulation and function in the parasite, which is a significant step toward understanding their biology as well as host interactions and disease. This article covers aspects of a talk given at the MEEGID XII conference in Thailand in 2014. Here, we refer to recent studies of the genomes and transcriptomes of socioeconomically important parasitic nematodes of animals provide an account of the barber's pole worm (Haemonchus contortus) and emerging drug resistance problems in this and related worms we also propose a genomic-guided drug discovery and repurposing approach, involving the prediction of the druggable genome, prioritization of drug targets, screening of compound libraries against H. contortus and, briefly, a hit-to-lead optimization approach. We conclude by indicating prospects that molecular tool kits for nematodes provide to the scientific community for future comparative genomic, genetic, proteomic, metabolomic, evolutionary, biological, ecological and epidemiological investigations, and as a basis for biotechnological outcomes and translation.
Publisher: CSIRO Publishing
Date: 2012
DOI: 10.1071/MF12211
Abstract: A survey was undertaken to characterise larval anisakid nematodes present in teleosts at Lizard Island on the northern Great Barrier Reef. In total, 464 fish were examined from 32 families, 62 genera and 107 species. Anisakid nematodes were found in 46 (9.9%) of the fish examined. Infections in Atherinidae, Lethrinidae, Lutjanidae and Serranidae were moderately prevalent, with the intensities of infection ranging from 1 to 80 whereas in the Sphyraenidae and Scombridae, the prevalence of infection was very high, with intensities ranging from 1 to anisakids. A combined morphological and molecular-phylogenetic approach was employed to identify larval anisakid nematodes to species and/or genotypes. The nematodes examined were identified as Anisakis typica (three genotypes based on molecular characterisation), Terranova Types I (five genotypes) and II (five genotypes) and Hysterothylacium Types IV, V (four genotypes), VI and X. The findings of the present study provide some insights into the distribution of larval anisakid nematodes in coral-reef fishes and a basis for future investigations of anisakid populations in marine fishes.
Publisher: American Chemical Society (ACS)
Date: 15-03-2019
DOI: 10.1021/ACS.JMEDCHEM.8B01790
Abstract: A phenotypic screen of two different libraries of small molecules against the motility and development of the parasitic nematode Haemonchus contortus led to the identification of two 1-methyl-1 H-pyrazole-5-carboxamide derivatives. Medicinal chemistry optimization targeted modifications of the left-hand side, middle section, and right-hand side of the hybrid structure of these two hits to elucidate the structure-activity relationship (SAR). Initial SAR around these hits allowed for the iterative and directed assembly of a focused set of 30 analogues of their hybrid structure. Compounds 10, 17, 20, and 22 were identified as the most potent compounds, inhibiting the development of the fourth larval (L4) stage of H. contortus at sub-nanomolar potencies while displaying strong selectivity toward the parasite when tested in vitro against the human MCF10A cell line. In addition, compounds 9 and 27 showed promising activity against a panel of other parasitic nematodes, including hookworms and whipworms.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 04-02-2019
DOI: 10.1007/S00436-019-06235-8
Abstract: This study involved a national cross-sectional survey of gastrointestinal nematodes (GINs) of alpacas in Australia. A total of 1545 fresh faecal s les were collected from both sexes of alpacas and processed for faecal egg counts (FEC) and molecular identification of nematodes using the multiplexed tandem PCR assay. Based on egg morphology, the overall prevalence of GINs was 66% while that for strongyles was 59%. The overall mean FEC was 276 eggs per gram (EPG) of faeces, with the highest count of 17,415 EPG. Male alpacas had a higher prevalence (68%, 334/490) as well as mean FEC (328 ± 60 EPG) of GINs than females (63%, 602/954 227 ± 26, respectively). Weaners had the highest prevalence (80%) whereas tuis had the highest FEC (402 EPG) of nematodes. The highest prevalence (77%, 293/383) and FEC (630 EPG) of GINs were observed in the summer rainfall zone followed by the Mediterranean-type rainfall, non-seasonal rainfall and winter rainfall zones. The characterisation of nematode DNA isolated from faeces revealed the occurrence of seven different GINs, including Camelostrongylus mentulatus, Cooperia spp., Haemonchus spp., Oesophagostomum spp., Ostertagia ostertagi, Teladorsagia circumcincta and Trichostrongylus spp. Besides, Nematodirus spp. and Trichuris spp. were also found during FECs. The prevalence of Haemonchus spp. was highest in the summer rainfall zone while that of C. mentulatus was highest in the Mediterranean-type rainfall, non-seasonal rainfall and winter rainfall zones. The findings of this study revealed that alpacas harbour many of the same nematodes as sheep and cattle.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 22-05-2015
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 19-02-2014
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 10-06-2020
DOI: 10.1186/S13071-020-04129-8
Abstract: Species of Macroponema Mawson, 1978 are strongyloid nematodes which occur in the stomachs of macropodid marsupials in Australia. In this study, the genus Macroponema is revised, redescriptions of the two known species are provided, and two new species are added to the genus. A molecular characterisation of the internal transcribed spacers of the nuclear ribosomal DNA of representative specimens of Macroponema from all known host species was undertaken to confirm the status of M . cf. comani . This resulted in the identification of a further new species within the genus. Consequently, a review of all available material in museum collections was undertaken. The two known species M. beveridgei Mawson, 1978 from Osphranter antilopinus (Gould) and O. robustus (Gould), and M. comani Mawson, 1978 from Macropus giganteus Shaw are re-described and their geographical distributions expanded. Two new species added to the genus are M. arundeli n. sp. from Ma. giganteus found in Queensland and the north east of New South Wales, and M. obendorfi n. sp. from O. antilopinus and O. robustus in the Northern Territory, the Kimberley Division of Western Australia and eastern Queensland. The latter species was formerly identified as M . cf. comani based on molecular studies. The specific identification of both of the new species is supported by ribosomal DNA sequence data. Based on the morphological and molecular characterisation of nematodes, this study has revealed the existence of four species within the genus Macroponema . The current phylogenetic data suggest that Macroponema spp. plausibly evolved by host switching however, further studies are required to test this hypothesis.
Publisher: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
Date: 08-2016
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 14-03-2020
DOI: 10.1186/S13071-020-4007-5
Abstract: Australian marsupials harbour a erse array of helminth parasites. Despite current attempts to assess the extent of this ersity in macropodid hosts, it has been suggested that unique parasite fauna of Australian wildlife is difficult to document comprehensively due to the common occurrence of cryptic species. This paper assessed genetic variation within Austrostrongylus thylogale Johnston & Mawson, 1940 from the tammar wallaby, Notamacropus eugenii (Gray), and the quokka, Setonix brachyurus (Quoy & Gaimard), from different localities using the molecular characterisation of the internal transcribed spacers (ITS) within the nuclear ribosomal DNA. Thirty-seven specimens of A. thylogale collected from N. eugenii (from Parndana, Kangaroo Island, South Australia, and Perup, Western Australia) and S. brachyurus (from Wellington Dam, Western Australia) were characterised using a molecular-phylogenetic approach utilising the first (ITS1) and second (ITS2) internal transcribed spacers. Genetic variation was detected in both ITS1 and ITS2 between specimens of A. thylogale from N. eugenii and S. brachyurus however, no variation was detected between specimens collected from N. eugenii from Parndana, South Australia, and Perup, Western Australia. Furthermore, the phylogenetic analyses of ITS sequences showed two clades of A. thylogale originating from two hosts, N. eugenii and S. brachyurus , suggesting the presence of cryptic species. This study provides evidence of genetic variation within A. thylogale based on collections from two different host species. Morphological studies are required to fully confirm the presence of a new species or cryptic species. Further molecular studies using a larger number of specimens are warranted to explore the genetic variation between A. thylogale from different geographical localities.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 11-2013
DOI: 10.1016/J.VETPAR.2013.06.023
Abstract: This study investigated Theileria orientalis following outbreaks of oriental theileriosis in cattle in the state of Victoria, Australia, from September 2010 to January 2012, using traditional and molecular methods of diagnosis. A questionnaire was used to collect epidemiological information from cattle farms. Blood s les (n=301), collected from in idual symptomatic and asymptomatic cattle from 19 cattle farms, were examined for the presence of Theileria on stained blood smears and tested using a PCR-based approach, employing a region within the major piroplasm surface protein (MPSP) gene as a marker. The microscopic examination of stained blood smears detected stages consistent with Theileria piroplasms in 28.1% (79/281) of the s les. PCR products were lified from 70.8% (213/301) of the s les. Mutation scanning analysis of all licons displayed seven distinct profiles. Following the direct sequencing of representative licons, the genotypes ikeda, chitose, buffeli and type 5 were detected in 91.1%, 32.9%, 2.4% and 1.4% of 213 blood s les, respectively. The distribution of these four genotypes varied among the 19 farms genotype ikeda was detected on all farms, whereas genotypes chitose, buffeli and type 5 were detected on 14, 3 and 2 farms, respectively. Mix infections with genotypes ikeda and chitose were common (21.6%). Survey results revealed that oriental theileriosis affected mainly beef cows of more than two years of age, prior to calving, and disease was associated with abortion and cow deaths. Future investigations should focus on developing improved tools for investigating and managing oriental theileriosis.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 08-2016
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 09-07-2020
Abstract: Eight secondary metabolites (1 to 8) were isolated from a marine sponge, a marine alga and three terrestrial plants collected in Australia and subsequently chemically characterised. Here, these natural product-derived compounds were screened for in vitro-anthelmintic activity against the larvae and adult stages of Haemonchus contortus (barber’s pole worm)—a highly pathogenic parasitic nematode of ruminants. Using an optimised, whole-organism screening system, compounds were tested on exsheathed third-stage larvae (xL3s) and fourth-stage larvae (L4s). Anthelmintic activity was initially evaluated on these stages based on the inhibition of motility, development and/or changes in morphology (phenotype). We identified two compounds, 6-undecylsalicylic acid (3) and 6-tridecylsalicylic acid (4) isolated from the marine brown alga, Caulocystis cephalornithos, with inhibitory effects on xL3 and L4 motility and larval development, and the induction of a “skinny-straight” phenotype. Subsequent testing showed that these two compounds had an acute nematocidal effect (within 1–12 h) on adult males and females of H. contortus. Ultrastructural analysis of adult worms treated with compound 4 revealed significant damage to subcuticular musculature and associated tissues and cellular organelles including mitochondria. In conclusion, the present study has discovered two algal compounds possessing acute anthelmintic effects and with potential for hit-to-lead progression. Future work should focus on undertaking a structure-activity relationship study and on elucidating the mode(s) of action of optimised compounds.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 03-01-2020
DOI: 10.1186/S13071-019-3862-4
Abstract: Ticks and tick-borne pathogens (TTBP) are a major constraint to livestock production in Pakistan despite a high prevalence of TTBPs, knowledge on the capacity of Pakistani ticks to carry pathogens and endosymbionts is limited. Furthermore, mixed infections with multiple microorganisms further complicate and limit the detection potential of traditional diagnostic methods. The present study investigated the tick-borne microorganisms in bovine ticks in Pakistan, employing a high-throughput microfluidic real-time PCR based technique. Ticks were collected from clinically healthy cattle ( n = 116) and water buffaloes ( n = 88) from 30 villages across six districts located in five agro-ecological zones (AEZs) of Pakistan from September to November 2017. The microfluidic real-time PCR was used to test the genomic DNA of in idual ticks for the presence of 27 bacterial and eight parasitic microorganisms. Phylogenetic methods were used to assess the genetic relationship of DNA sequences determined herein. PCR detected DNA of at least one microorganism in each of 221 ticks tested (94.4%, 221/234). DNA-based detection inferred that single pathogens/endosymbionts were the most common (43.4%, 96/221) followed by double (38.9%, 86/221), triple (14.5%, 32/221), quadruple (2.3%, 5/221) and quintuple (0.9%, 2/221) mixed infections. Piroplasms ( Babesia / Theileria spp.) were the most prevalent (31.6%, 74/234), followed by Ehrlichia spp. (20%, 47/234) and Anaplasma marginale (7.7%, 18/234). Anaplasma phagocytophilum , A. ovis , A. centrale , Babesia ovis , Borrelia spp., Rickettsia spp., R. massiliae , Bartonella spp. and Hepatozoon spp. were also detected. Endosymbionts such as Francisella -like (91.5%, 214/234) and Coxiella -like (1.3%, 3/234) organisms were also detected in ticks. The highest ersity of microorganisms was detected in Hyalomma anatolicum ticks (test-positive for 14/14 microorganisms), followed by Rhipicephalus microplus (4/14), Hy. hussaini (3/14) and Rh. annulatus (2/14). Ticks collected from cattle carried significantly more frequently piroplasms (41.2%, 54/131 P 0.05) than those from buffaloes (19.4%, 20/103). However, the overall prevalence of microorganisms did not vary significantly among ticks from the two host species as well as across different AEZs. To our knowledge, this is the first study to investigate a wide range of tick-borne microorganisms in bovine ticks using a high-throughput diagnostic method from different AEZs in Pakistan. These findings will aid in establishing the distribution patterns and the control of tick-borne pathogens of bovines in Pakistan.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 06-2015
DOI: 10.1016/J.MEEGID.2015.02.021
Abstract: This study employed a semi-quantitative, multiplexed tandem PCR (MT-PCR) to assess the prevalence and infection intensity of four genotypes (buffeli, chitose, ikeda and type 5) of Theileria orientalis in cattle in Australia. Genomic DNA s les from blood s les (n=448) collected from 27 to 32 dairy cows from each of 15 dairy herds with a history of recent theileriosis outbreaks (Group 1), and from blood s les available from 24 cows with or without oriental theileriosis (Group 2) were tested using MT-PCR. Results revealed that all four genotypes were present in Group 1 cattle genotype buffeli had the highest prevalence (80.5%), followed by genotypes ikeda (71.4%), chitose (38.6%) and type 5 (20.3%). Genotype ikeda had the highest average infection intensity in the cattle (relating to 55,277 DNA copies), followed by buffeli, chitose and type 5 (6354-51,648 copies). For Group 2, results indicated that genotype ikeda had a significantly higher average intensity of infection than buffeli in symptomatic cattle (P<0.001), and symptomatic cattle had a higher intensity of ikeda than asymptomatic cattle (P=0.004). Future studies should assess the utility of the present MT-PCR assay as a diagnostic and epidemiological tool in other parts of Australasia and the world.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 2020
DOI: 10.1016/J.ACTATROPICA.2019.105203
Abstract: Detailed post mortem analyses of 68 free-ranging, slaughter-age pigs from two sites in the Banke District of Nepal identified 36% as being infected with Echinococcus granulosus. The cysts ranged from infertile, immature cysts a few millimetres in diameter to fertile cysts >10 cm in diameter. PCR RFLP and DNA sequencing identified the cysts as being E. granulosus sensu stricto. The Banke district has recently been identified as having a high prevalence of porcine cysticercosis. These data suggest that cestode zoonoses in this, and possibly other parts of Nepal may be a serious concern for human health. An assessment of the level of human cystic echinococcosis and neurocysticercosis, in the region is warranted and the introduction of control measures are required to limit the parasites' transmission.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 04-2015
DOI: 10.1016/J.IJPARA.2015.01.007
Abstract: Due to major problems with drug resistance in parasitic nematodes of animals, there is a substantial need and excellent opportunities to develop new anthelmintics via genomic-guided and/or repurposing approaches. In the present study, we established a practical and cost-effective whole-organism assay for the in vitro-screening of compounds for activity against parasitic stages of the nematode Haemonchus contortus (barber's pole worm). The assay is based on the use of exsheathed L3 (xL3) and L4 stages of H. contortus of small ruminants (sheep and goats). Using this assay, we screened a panel of 522 well-curated kinase inhibitors (GlaxoSmithKline, USA code: PKIS2) for activity against H. contortus by measuring the inhibition of larval motility using an automated image analysis system. We identified two chemicals within the compound classes biphenyl amides and pyrazolo[1,5-α]pyridines, which reproducibly inhibit both xL3 and L4 motility and development, with IC50s of 14-47 μM. Given that these inhibitors were designed as anti-inflammatory drugs for use in humans and fit the Lipinski rule-of-five (including bioavailability), they show promise for hit-to-lead optimisation and repurposing for use against parasitic nematodes. The screening assay established here has significant advantages over conventional methods, particularly in terms of ease of use, throughput, time and cost. Although not yet fully automated, the current assay is readily suited to the screening of hundreds to thousands of compounds for subsequent hit-to-lead optimisation. The current assay is highly adaptable to many parasites of socioeconomic importance, including those causing neglected tropical diseases. This aspect is of major relevance, given the urgent need to deliver the goals of the London Declaration (esource/london-declaration) through the rapid and efficient repurposing of compounds in public-private partnerships.
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 23-12-2020
DOI: 10.3390/MICROORGANISMS9010021
Abstract: Protists of the genera Babesia and Theileria (piroplasms) cause some of the most prevalent and debilitating diseases for bovines worldwide. In this study, we established and used a next-generation sequencing-informatic approach to explore the composition of Babesia and Theileria populations in cattle and water buffalo in a country (Pakistan) endemic for these pathogens. We collected in idual blood s les from cattle (n = 212) and water buffalo (n = 154), extracted genomic DNAs, PCR- lified the V4 hypervariable region of 18S small subunit rRNA gene from piroplasms, sequenced licons using Illumina technology, and then analysed data using bioinformatic platforms. The results revealed piroplasms in 68.9% (252/366) s les, with overall occurrence being markedly higher in cattle (85.8%) than in water buffaloes (45.5%). Babesia (B.) occultans and Theileria (T.) lestoquardi-like species were recorded for the first time in Pakistan, and, overall, T. annulata was most commonly detected (65.8%) followed by B. bovis (7.1%), B. bigemina (4.4%), and T. orientalis (0.5%), with the genetic variability within B. bovis being pronounced. The occurrence and composition of piroplasm species varied markedly across different agro-ecological zones. The high detection of T. annulata in asymptomatic animals suggested a relatively high level of endemic stability of tropical theileriosis in the bovine population.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 06-2009
DOI: 10.1016/J.JEP.2009.02.043
Abstract: Ziziphus nummularia (Rhamnaceae) and Acacia nilotica (Fabaceae) are being used as anthelmintics in ethnoveterinary medicinal system of Pakistan. Present study was conducted to determine the anthelmintic activity of Ziziphus nummularia (bark) and Acacia nilotica (fruit) in order to justify their traditional use in veterinary medicine. In vitro anthelmintic activity of crude methanolic extract (CME) of both the plants was determined against Haemonchus contortus by the adult motility assay, the egg hatch test and the larval development assay. In vivo anthelmintic activity was evaluated in sheep naturally infected with gastrointestinal nematodes by administering increasing doses of crude powder (CP) and CME (1.0-3.0 g/kg). Both the plants exhibited dose- and time-dependent anthelmintic effects by causing mortality of worms, and inhibiting egg hatching and larval development. Acacia nilotica (LC(50)=512.86 and 194.98 microg/ml) was found to be more potent than Ziziphus nummularia (LC(50)=676.08 and 398.11 microg/ml) in egg hatch test and larval development assay, respectively. In vivo, maximum fecal egg count reduction (84.7%) was recorded on day 13 post-treatment in sheep treated with Ziziphus nummularia CME (3.0 g/kg) followed by 78.5% on same day with Acacia nilotica CME (3.0 g/kg). These data show that both Ziziphus nummularia and Acacia nilotica possess anthelmintic activity in vitro and in vivo, justifying their use in traditional veterinary medicine in Pakistan.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 02-2011
DOI: 10.1016/J.MCP.2010.11.001
Abstract: Polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-based single-strand conformation polymorphism (SSCP) and targeted sequencing were employed to genetically classify Echinococcus granulosus cysts from humans from 12 provinces in Mongolia using two DNA loci, designated pcox-1 and pnad-1, within the mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit 1 (cox-1) and NADH dehydrogenase subunit 1 (nad-1) genes, respectively. SSCP analysis of pcox-1 and pnad-1 licons produced from genomic DNA s les from in idual E. granulosus cysts (n = 50) from in idual humans displayed four distinct electrophoretic profiles for each pcox-1 and pnad-1. The direct sequencing of selected licons representing each of these profiles defined four distinct sequence types for each locus, present in four different combinations (designated as haplotypes M1-M4) for all 50 cyst isolates. Phylogenetic analysis of concatenated sequence data for these four haplotypes, including well-defined reference sequences, inferred that 68% of the cyst isolates belonged to the G1-G3 complex of E. granulosus (or E. granulosus sensu stricto), whereas the remaining (32%) were linked to the G6-G10 complex (or Echinococcus canadensis). Humans infected with E. granulosus cysts of the G1-G3 complex originated mainly from the eastern regions of Mongolia, whereas those harbouring cysts of the G6-G10 complex were from the western part of this country. The present study provides a first glimpse of the genetic composition of E. granulosus from humans in Mongolia, and forms a foundation for future studies of the epidemiology and ecology of the parasite(s) in animals and humans in this and surrounding countries.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 07-2015
DOI: 10.1016/J.TTBDIS.2015.04.012
Abstract: This study investigated the first outbreak of oriental theileriosis in a herd of beef cattle in South Australia using a newly established multiplexed tandem PCR (MT-PCR) to identify, differentiate and quantitate the four genotypes (buffeli, chitose, ikeda and type 5) of Theileria orientalis recognised to occur in Australasia. Following clinical diagnosis of oriental theileriosis (based on clinical signs, laboratory findings and post mortem examination), 155 blood s les were collected from in idual cows (n = 85) and calves (n = 70), and tested by MT-PCR. In total, 117 (75.48%) cattle were shown to be test-positive for T. orientalis. All four genotypes were detected, and ikeda had the highest prevalence (90.6% 106/117), followed by buffeli (83.8% 98/117), chitose (18.8% 22/117) and type 5 (5.1% 6/117). Mixed infections with genotypes buffeli and ikeda had a higher prevalence (55.5% 65/117) than any other combination of genotypes. The prevalences of buffeli and ikeda were significantly higher (P<0.005) than those of chitose and type 5. The average intensity of infection with genotype ikeda (329,775 DNA copies) was significantly higher (P<0.0001) than buffeli (212,843) and chitose (125,462). This study reinforces the utility of MT-PCR as a diagnostic tool for rapidly investigating oriental theileriosis outbreaks in cattle herds and as a pre-movement screening test for preventing the introduction of this disease into non-endemic regions.
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 22-10-2022
DOI: 10.3390/ANI12212900
Abstract: Australasian marsupials harbour a erse group of gastrointestinal strongyloid nematodes. These nematodes are currently grouped into two subfamilies, namely the Cloacininae and Phascolostrongylinae. Based on morphological criteria, the Cloacininae and Phascolostrongylinae were defined as monophyletic and placed in the family Cloacinidae, but this has not been supported by molecular data and they are currently placed in the Chabertiidae. Although molecular data (internal transcribed spacers of the nuclear ribosomal RNA genes or mitochondrial protein-coding genes) have been used to verify morphological classifications within the Cloacininae and Phascolostrongylinae, the phylogenetic relationships between the subfamilies have not been rigorously tested. This study determined the phylogenetic relationships of the subfamilies Cloacininae and Phascolostrongylinae using amino acid sequences conceptually translated from the twelve concatenated mitochondrial protein-coding genes. The findings demonstrated that the Cloacininae and Phascolostrongylinae formed a well-supported monophyletic assemblage, consistent with their morphological classification as an independent family, Cloacinidae. Unexpectedly, however, the subfamily Phascolostrongylinae was split into two groups comprising the genera from macropodid hosts (kangaroos and wallabies) and those from vombatid hosts (wombats). Genera of the Cloacininae and Phascolostrongylinae occurring in macropodid hosts were more closely related compared to genera of the Phascolostrongylinae occurring in wombats that formed a sister relationship with the remaining genera from macropods. These findings provide molecular evidence supporting the monophyly of the family Cloacinidae and an alternative hypothesis for the origin of marsupial strongyloid nematodes in vombatid hosts that requires further exploration using molecular approaches and additional s les
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 29-09-2016
DOI: 10.1186/S13071-016-1806-9
Abstract: There is some evidence that ATP binding cassette (ABC) transporters play a role in resistance to anthelmintics, particularly against macrocyclic lactones. Some anthelmintics, including ivermectin (IVM), have been shown to induce transcription of multiple ABC transporters in nematodes however, the effects of monepantel (MPL) on transcription of these transporter genes has not been studied. Larvae of two MPL-susceptible isolates of Haemonchus contortus were exposed to MPL at two concentrations (2.5 and 250 μg/ml) for periods of 3, 6 and 24 h. Transcription levels of sixteen ABC transporter genes were measured at the end of the incubation periods. The consequences of MPL exposure were examined by measuring rhodamine-123 efflux from the larvae, and their sensitivity to subsequent treatment with IVM or levamisole. Multiple ABC transporter genes showed significantly higher transcription in both worm isolates following exposure to MPL at 250 μg/ml for 3, 6 or 24 h, particularly the P-glycoprotein (P-gp) genes pgp-11, pgp-12 and pgp-14. Of these, only pgp-11 maintained the elevated levels 24 h after the end of the drug exposure period. In contrast, there was only a single instance of low-level upregulation as a result of exposure to MPL at 2.5 μg/ml. Larvae exposed to MPL at 250 μg/ml showed an increased efflux of rhodamine-123 and a proportion of the larval population showed an ability to subsequently tolerate higher concentrations of IVM in migration assays. There was no increased tolerance to IVM following pre-exposure to MPL at 2.5 μg/ml. Exposure of H. contortus larvae to 250 μg/ml MPL results in increased transcription of multiple transporter genes and increased R-123 efflux. The subsequent ability of a proportion of the larvae to tolerate IVM suggests a protective role of ABC transporters across different chemical entities. However, these observations were only made at a concentration of MPL well above that experienced by parasitic life stages in vivo, and hence their significance remains unclear.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 09-02-2019
DOI: 10.1007/S00436-019-06236-7
Abstract: We conducted a longitudinal survey on 13 alpaca farms in four climatic zones of Australia to understand the epidemiology of gastrointestinal nematodes (GINs) of alpacas. A total of 1688 fresh faecal s les were collected from both sexes of alpacas from May 2015 to April 2016 and processed for faecal egg counts (FEC) and molecular identification of eggs using the multiplexed-tandem PCR assay. Based on egg morphology, the overall prevalence of GINs was 61% while that for strongyles was 53%. The overall mean FEC was 168 eggs per gram (EPG) of faeces, with the highest count of 15,540 EPG. Weaners had the highest prevalence (73%) and mean FEC (295 EPG) of GINs followed by tuis, crias and adults. Alpacas in the winter rainfall zone had the highest prevalence (68%) as well as FEC (266 EPG) followed by Mediterranean-type, non-seasonal and summer rainfall zones. Trichostrongylus spp. (83%, 89/107), Haemonchus spp. (71%, 76/107) and Camelostrongylus mentulatus (63%, 67/107) were the three most common GINs of alpacas across all climatic zones. The mixed-effects zero-inflated negative binomial regression model used in this study showed that it could help to design parasite control interventions targeted at both the herd level and the in idual alpaca level. The findings of this study showed that the epidemiology of GINs of alpacas is very similar to those of cattle and sheep, and careful attention should be paid when designing control strategies for domestic ruminants co-grazing with alpacas.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 02-2006
DOI: 10.1016/J.FITOTE.2005.11.013
Abstract: Seeds of Butea monosperma administered as crude powder (CP) at doses of 1, 2 and 3 g/kg to sheep naturally infected with mixed species of gastrointestinal nematodes exhibited a dose and a time-dependent anthelmintic effect. The maximum reduction of 78.4% in eggs per gram of feces (EPG) was recorded on day 10 after treatment with 3 g/kg. Levamisole (7.5 mg/kg), a standard anthelmintic agent, exhibited 99.1% reduction in EPG.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 12-2018
Publisher: American Chemical Society (ACS)
Date: 07-11-2018
DOI: 10.1021/ACS.JMEDCHEM.8B01544
Abstract: A phenotypic screen of a erse library of small molecules for inhibition of the development of larvae of the parasitic nematode Haemonchus contortus led to the identification of a 1-methyl-1 H-pyrazole-5-carboxamide derivative with an IC
Publisher: American Chemical Society (ACS)
Date: 20-12-2018
DOI: 10.1021/ACS.JMEDCHEM.8B01789
Abstract: Recently, we have discovered that the registered pesticide, tolfenpyrad, unexpectedly and potently inhibits the development of the L4 larval stage of the parasitic nematode Haemonchus contortus with an IC
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 18-02-2018
DOI: 10.1007/S00436-018-5790-1
Abstract: Hepatozoon canis is a tick-borne pathogen of canids, which is distributed worldwide. However, very little is known about this protozoan parasite in Pakistan. This study provides the first molecular evidence of H. canis from farm dogs from three agro-ecological zones of Punjab, Pakistan. A conventional PCR targeting the 18S rRNA gene was used to characterize H. canis from farm dogs from three districts, namely Kasur, Rawalpindi, and Muzaffargarh, in Punjab. Of 341 blood s les tested, 155 (45.5%) were positive for H. canis, 73 (61.3%) from Kasur, 46 (42.5%) from Rawalpindi, and 36 (31.5%) from Muzaffargarh. Phylogenetic analyses revealed that 18S rRNA sequences of H. canis from this study clustered in three clades with those of H. canis from previously published studies to the exclusion of all other Hepatozoon spp. included in the analysis. This study provides the first insight into H. canis from farm dogs in Pakistan. Furthermore, it lays a foundation for future studies of the parasite to assess the impact of canine hepatozoonosis in dogs from various agro-ecological zones in Pakistan where pet ownership of dogs is increasing.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 12-2016
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 18-07-2012
Publisher: EDP Sciences
Date: 28-08-2013
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 2017
DOI: 10.1016/J.MEEGID.2016.11.005
Abstract: The epidemiological aspects of Theileria orientalis in Pakistan are unknown therefore, investigations using sensitive and precise molecular techniques are required. This study reports the first molecular characterisation of T. orientalis detected from imported (Bos taurus) and native cattle (Bos indicus×Bos taurus) and buffaloes (Bubalus bubalis) selected from four districts of Punjab, Pakistan. DNA s les from blood (n=246) were extracted and tested using conventional PCR utilising the major piroplasm surface protein (MPSP) gene and multiplexed tandem PCR (MT-PCR). Theileria orientalis DNA was detected (15% 22/147) only in imported cattle by conventional PCR, whereas 24.5% (36/147), 6% (3/50) and 6.1% (3/49) of the imported cattle and native Pakistani cattle and buffaloes, respectively were test-positive for T. orientalis using MT-PCR. Using MT-PCR, the prevalence of T. orientalis was significantly higher (P<0.0001) in imported cattle compared to that of detected in native Pakistani bovines. The prevalence of T. orientalis and DNA copies of chitose and ikeda were significantly higher (P<0.05) in imported cattle than those detected in native Pakistani bovines. DNA sequencing of licons of the conventional PCR revealed the presence of buffeli, chitose and ikeda genotypes of T. orientalis. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that the MPSP sequences of buffeli, chitose and ikeda from imported cattle were closely related to those sequences reported previously from Australia and other regions. This study provides the first survey of T. orientalis infection in imported and native bovines in Pakistan, and highlights the need for future studies to understand the spread of transboundary animal diseases.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 07-2016
Abstract: Traditionally, parasitology courses have mostly been taught face-to-face on c us, but now digital technologies offer opportunities for teaching and learning. Here, we give a perspective on how new technologies might be used through student-centred teaching approaches. First, a snapshot of recent trends in the higher education is provided then, a brief account is given of how digital technologies [e.g., massive open online courses (MOOCs), flipped classroom (FC), games, quizzes, dedicated Facebook, and digital badges] might promote parasitology teaching and learning in digital learning environments. In our opinion, some of these digital technologies might be useful for competency-based, self-regulated, learner-centred teaching and learning in an online or blended teaching environment.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 04-2019
Publisher: EDP Sciences
Date: 04-2014
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 04-2019
Publisher: Frontiers Media SA
Date: 06-05-2020
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 02-2017
DOI: 10.1016/J.MCP.2016.06.005
Abstract: Oriental theileriosis caused by multiple genotypes of Theileria orientalis is an important tick-borne disease of bovines. Here, we assessed the performance of an established multiplexed tandem PCR (MT-PCR) for the diagnosis of the two recognized, pathogenic genotypes (chitose and ikeda) of T. orientalis in cattle using pooled blood s les. We used a total of 265 cattle blood s les, which were ided into two groups according to previous MT-PCR results for in idual s les. S les in group 1 (n = 155) were from a herd with a relatively high prevalence of T. orientalis infection and those in group 2 (n = 110) were from four herds with a low prevalence. For group 1, 31 and 15 batches of five- and ten-pooled s les (selected at random), respectively, were formed. For group 2, 22 and 11 batches of five- and ten-pooled s les (selected at random), respectively, were formed. DNAs from in idual pooled s les in each batch and group were then tested by MT-PCR. For group 1, the apparent prevalences estimated using the 31 batches of five-pooled s les (97%) and 15 batches of ten-pooled s les (100%) were significantly higher compared with in idual s les (75%). For group 2, higher apparent prevalences (9% and 36%) were also recorded for the 22 and 11 batches of pooled s les, respectively, compared with in idual s les (7%). Overall, the average infection intensity recorded for the genotypes of chitose and ikeda were considerably lower in pooled compared with in idual s les. The diagnostic specificities of MT-PCR were estimated at 95% and 94%, respectively, when batches of five- and ten-pooled s les were tested, and 94% for in idual s les. The diagnostic sensitivity of this assay was estimated at 98% same for all in idual, five- and ten-pooled s les. This study shows that screening batches of five- and ten-pooled blood s les from cattle herds are similar to those obtained for in idual s les, and, importantly, that the reduced cost for the testing of pooled s les represents a considerable saving to herd managers.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 02-05-2018
Publisher: Asian Australasian Association of Animal Production Societies
Date: 21-06-2011
Publisher: Cambridge University Press (CUP)
Date: 09-2007
DOI: 10.1017/S0022149X07818554
Abstract: The present study was carried out to determine the prevalence of gastrointestinal helminthiasis in ruminants in an irrigated area of lower Punjab (Pakistan). For this purpose, 100 faecal s les were collected from sheep, goats, cattle and buffaloes. Parasitological procedures including direct and indirect methods (sedimentation and floatation) and coproculture were used for the identification of helminths. The overall prevalence of helminthiasis was 51% in cattle, 47% in buffaloes, 62% in sheep and 52% in goats, with nematodes being the most common helminths. The prevalence of helminths was higher in young animals compared with adults in cattle ( P 0.0001), buffaloes ( P 0.0001), sheep ( P 0.059) and goats ( P = 0.010). The prevalence of different species of helminths also varied in different age groups, with Toxocara vitulorum being higher in calves than adults both in cattle ( P = 0.017) and buffaloes ( P 0.0001). Sex-wise prevalence of helminths was higher in males than females for buffaloes ( P 0.0001) and sheep ( P = 0.014) in contrast to cattle and goats.
Publisher: American Society for Microbiology
Date: 02-2017
DOI: 10.1128/JCM.02017-16
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 22-12-2020
DOI: 10.3390/MICROORGANISMS9010009
Abstract: The strongyloid nematode subfamily Phascolostrongylinae comprises parasites of the large intestine and stomach of Australian macropods and wombats. In this study, we tested the phylogenetic relationships among the genera of the Phascolostrongylinae using the first and second internal transcribed spacers of the nuclear ribosomal DNA. Monophyly was encountered in the tribe Phascolostrongylinea comprising two genera, Phascolostrongylus and Oesophagostomoides, found exclusively in the large intestine of wombats. The tribe Hypodontinea, represented by the genera Hypodontus and Macropicola from the ileum and large intestine of macropods, was also found to be monophyletic. The tribe Macropostrongyloidinea, comprising the genera Macropostrongyloides and Paramacropostrongylus, was paraphyletic with the species occurring in the stomach grouping separately from those found in the large intestines of their hosts. However, Macropostrongyloidesdissimilis from the stomach of the sw wallaby and Paramacropostrongylus toraliformis from the large intestine of the eastern grey kangaroo were distinct from their respective congeners. This study provided strong support for the generic composition of the tribe Phascolostrongylinea. The unexpected finding of M. dissimilis and P. toraliformis being distantly related to their respective congeners suggests a requirement for future taxonomic revision that may warrant separation of these species at the generic level.
Publisher: EDP Sciences
Date: 29-10-2014
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 14-08-2011
DOI: 10.1007/S00436-011-2576-0
Abstract: Gastrointestinal nematode (GIN) infections are a common constraint to small ruminant industry throughout the world, and among those, haemonchosis has its own significance. Control of GIN primarily relies on the use of anthelmintics, but this approach has become less reliable due to the development of resistance in GINs against commonly used anthelmintics and an increased consumer demand for environmentally friendly animal products. These issues have stimulated investigations to find alternative sustainable control strategies, which are less reliant on anthelmintic input. One of such strategies is breeding of small ruminants for their resistance to the GINs. The susceptibility and resistance of animals to GIN infections varies within and between breeds. Various parasitological, biochemical and immunological parameters are employed to evaluate natural resistance status of animals both in natural pasture and artificial infections. The immune mechanisms responsible for resistance are not completely understood, but it has a significant effect in inherited resistance. Relatively resistant or tolerant animals show better local and generalised immune response as compared to susceptible. Immune response against GINs is influenced by many physiological factors. Determination of specific genes linked with host resistance will provide a valuable approach to find out the molecular mechanism of host resistance to GINs. Resistance has been reported to reduce pasture contamination, which in turn reduces re-infection and thus the requirement of the frequent anthelmintic treatments. The efficiency of control can be increased through objective and accurate identification of genetically tolerant in iduals by natural and artificial infections with GINs. Complete resistance is the ultimate solution, but this has generally been ignored as a commercial reality. This paper reviews the published reports on natural resistance in small ruminants and discusses the prospects of developing small ruminants, which could be resistant to GINs.
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 27-09-2021
DOI: 10.3390/MOLECULES26195846
Abstract: Widespread resistance in parasitic nematodes to most classes of anthelmintic drugs demands the discovery and development of novel compounds with distinct mechanisms of action to complement strategic or integrated parasite control programs. Products from nature—which assume a erse ‘chemical space’—have significant potential as a source of anthelmintic compounds. In the present study, we screened a collection of extracts (n = 7616) derived from marine invertebrates s led from Australian waters in a high throughput bioassay for in vitro anti-parasitic activity against the barber’s pole worm (Haemonchus contortus)—an economically important parasitic nematode of livestock animals. In this high throughput screen (HTS), we identified 58 active extracts that reduced larval motility by ≥70% (at 90 h), equating to an overall ‘hit rate’ of ~0.8%. Of these 58 extracts, 16 also inhibited larval development by ≥80% (at 168 h) and/or induced ‘non-wild-type’ (abnormal) larval phenotypes with reference to ‘wild-type’ (normal) larvae not exposed to extract (negative controls). Most active extracts (54 of 58) originated from sponges, three from chordates (tunicates) and one from a coral these extracts represented 37 distinct species/taxa of 23 families. An analysis of s les by 1H NMR fingerprinting was utilised to dereplicate hits and to prioritise a set of 29 sponge s les for future chemical investigation. Overall, these results indicate that a range of sponge species from Australian waters represents a rich source of natural compounds with nematocidal or nematostatic properties. Our plan now is to focus on in-depth chemical investigations of the s le set prioritised herein.
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 28-03-2021
DOI: 10.3390/PATHOGENS10040399
Abstract: Lyme borreliosis (LB) is the most common tick-borne disease in Serbia and other European countries. Rabies is a fatal zoonosis distributed worldwide and is caused by the rabies virus. Professionals at risk of rabies—including veterinarians, hunters, communal service workers, and forestry workers—overlap with some professions at a higher risk of exposure to tick bites and tick-borne pathogen infections. We hypothesized that in iduals identified by the public health system as at risk of rabies virus infection, and consequently vaccinated against rabies virus, also share a higher likelihood of Borrelia exposure. To test our hypothesis, a case-control study was carried out during 2019 in Serbia to determine the seroprevalence of anti-Borrelia antibodies in two case groups (in iduals at risk and vaccinated against rabies virus) and a control group (in iduals without risk of rabies). In iduals vaccinated against rabies following either “pre-exposure protocol” (PrEP, n = 58) or “post-exposure protocol” (PEP, n = 42) were considered as rabies risk groups and healthy blood donors (n = 30) as the control group. The results showed higher Borrelia seroprevalence in PrEP (17.2% 10/58) and PEP (19.0% 8/42) groups compared with the control group (6.67% 2/30). Furthermore, odds ratio (OR) analysis showed that risk of rabies (in either the PrEP (OR = 2.91) or PEP (OR = 3.29) groups) is associated with increased odds of being seropositive to Borrelia. However, the difference in Borrelia seroprevalence between groups was not statistically significant (Chi-square (χ²) test p 0.05). The shared odds of LB and rabies exposure found in this study suggest that, in countries where both diseases occur, the common citizen can be at risk of both diseases when in a risky habitat. These findings are important to guide physicians in targeting high-risk groups, and diagnose LB, and to guide decision-makers in targeting control and prevention measures for both infections in risk areas.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 12-2018
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 04-2010
DOI: 10.1016/J.IJPARA.2009.10.008
Abstract: Immunohistochemistry, confocal immunofluorescence and immunogold labelling were used to determine the localisation of the host-protective antigens To16, To18 and To45W in Taenia ovis oncospheres. During maturation of the adult tapeworm the antigens were initially seen as diffuse staining in the developing oncospheres but in mature oncospheres four distinct cells stained positively for the antigens. Confocal fluorescence microscopy using different fluorophores revealed that each of the antigens co-localises within the same cells in the oncosphere. No surface localisation was seen in non-activated or recently activated parasites. Immunogold labelling of non-activated oncosphere sections viewed in transmission electron microscopy revealed labelling of bilateral cells, however the identities of these cells was unclear due to deficiencies in the current level of understanding of oncosphere ultrastructure. Localisation of all the antigens changed dramatically after oncospheres were activated in vitro with each of the antigens being dispersed more generally throughout the parasite parenchyma. During development of the parasites in in vitro culture, surface localisation of the proteins was seen in parasites after 3 or more days in culture. All three antigens were found to be completely absent in parasites by 15 days of culture. The location of the host-protective antigens suggests that initially the invading oncospheres are not susceptible to vaccine-induced antibody and complement mediated attack, but that as the parasites mature, the host-protective antigens come to be associated with the parasite's surface, rendering them susceptible to immune attack.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 09-2020
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 02-2016
DOI: 10.1016/J.MCP.2015.08.005
Abstract: Here, we provide a step-by-step protocol for a practical and low cost whole-organism assay for the screening of chemical compounds for activity against parasitic worms. This assay has considerable advantages over conventional methods, mainly in relation to ease of use, throughput, time and cost. It is readily suited to the screening of hundreds to thousands of compounds for subsequent hit-to-lead optimisation, and should be applicable to many different parasites and other organisms commensurate with the size of wells in the microtiter plates used for phenotypic screening.
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 23-10-2019
DOI: 10.3390/MD17110598
Abstract: There is an urgent need to discover and develop new anthelmintics for the treatment of parasitic nematodes of veterinary importance to circumvent challenges linked to drug resistant parasites. Being one of the most erse natural ecosystems, the marine environment represents a rich resource of novel chemical entities. This study investigated 2000 extracts from marine invertebrates, collected from Australian waters, for anthelmintic activity. Using a well-established in vitro bioassay, these extracts were screened for nematocidal activity against Haemonchus contortus — a socioeconomically important parasitic nematode of livestock animals. Extracts (designated Mu-1, Ha-1 and Ha-2) from two marine sponges (Monanchora unguiculata and Haliclona sp.) each significantly affected larvae of H. contortus. In idual extracts displayed a dose-dependent inhibition of both the motility of exsheathed third-stage larvae (xL3s) and the development of xL3s to fourth-stage larvae (L4s). Active fractions in each of the three extracts were identified using bioassay-guided fractionation. From the active fractions from Monanchora unguiculata, a known pentacyclic guanidine alkaloid, fromiamycalin (1), was purified. This alkaloid was shown to be a moderately potent inhibitor of L4 development (half-maximum inhibitory concentration (IC50) = 26.6 ± 0.74 µM) and L4 motility (IC50 = 39.4 ± 4.83 µM), although it had a relatively low potency at inhibiting of xL3 motility (IC50 ≥ 100 µM). Investigation of the active fractions from the two Haliclona collections led to identification of a mixture of amino alcohol lipids, and, subsequently, a known natural product halaminol A (5). Anthelmintic profiling showed that 5 had limited potency at inhibiting larval development and motility. These data indicate that fromiamycalin, other related pentacyclic guanidine alkaloids and/or halaminols could have potential as anthelmintics following future medicinal chemistry efforts.
Publisher: American Society for Microbiology
Date: 03-2018
DOI: 10.1128/JCM.01661-17
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 17-09-2020
DOI: 10.3390/MICROORGANISMS8091428
Abstract: This study investigated ticks and tick-borne microorganisms of small ruminants from five districts of the Federally Administered Tribal Area (FATA) of Pakistan. Morphological (n = 104) and molecular (n = 54) characterization of the ticks revealed the presence of six ixodid ticks: Rhipicephalus (Rh.) haemaphysaloides, Rh. microplus, Rh. turanicus, Haemaphysalis (Hs.) punctata, Hs. sulcata and Hyalomma anatolicum. Phylogenetic analyses of nucleotide sequence data for two mitochondrial (16S and cytochrome c oxidase 1) and one nuclear (second internal transcribed spacer) DNA regions provided strong support for the grouping of the six tick species identified in this study. Microfluidic real-time PCR, employing multiple pre-validated nuclear and mitochondrial genetic markers, detected 11 potential pathogens and endosymbionts in 72.2% of the ticks (n = 54) tested. Rickettsia (R.) massiliae was the most common pathogen found (42.6% of ticks) followed by Theileria spp. (33.3%), Anaplasma (A.) ovis and R. slovaca (25.9% each). Anaplasma centrale, A. marginale, Ehrlichia spp., R. aeschlimannii, R. conorii and endosymbionts (Francisella- and Coxiella-like) were detected at much lower rates (1.9–22.2%) in ticks. Ticks from goats (83.9%) carried significantly higher microorganisms than those from sheep (56.5%). This study demonstrates that ticks of small ruminants from the FATA are carrying multiple microorganisms of veterinary and medical health significance and provides the basis for future investigations of ticks and tick-borne diseases of animals and humans in this and neighboring regions.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 27-02-2008
DOI: 10.1007/S00436-008-0923-6
Abstract: This paper presents the first report of anthelmintic resistance (AR) in dairy goats in a desert (Pakistan). Three breeds of dairy goats, i.e. Dera Din Panah, Pak Angora and Beetal, kept at Government Livestock Farm, Rakh Khairewala, district Jhang/Layya, Pakistan, were surveyed for gastrointestinal nematodes (GINs) resistant to commonly used three anthelmintics, i.e. benzimidazole, levamisole and ivermectin. Sixty animals of each breed were selected randomly on the basis of their weight and egg count. Three commonly used anthelmintics, viz., oxfendazole (three different preparations of oxfendazole: fendamex, oxazole, systamex), levamisole and ivermectin, were given at the recommended dose to five groups while one untreated group was kept as control for each breed. Faecal egg counts, faecal egg count reduction test, postmortem worm count and copro-culture were performed to assess the efficacy of selected anthelmintics. The prevalent species of GINs exhibited resistance against all three preparations of oxfendazole. Levamisole in two breeds and ivermectin in all the breeds led to reduction (P or =0.05). The farm management practices along with the results of the present study revealed the presence of multiple anthelmintic resistant GINs of dairy goats kept in a desolated tract.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 30-05-2013
Abstract: Adult tapeworms of the genus Echinococcus (family Taeniidae) occur in the small intestines of carnivorous definitive hosts and are transmitted to particular intermediate mammalian hosts, in which they develop as fluid-filled larvae (cysts) in internal organs (usually lung and liver), causing the disease echinococcosis. Echinococcus species are of major medical importance and also cause losses to the meat and livestock industries, mainly due to the condemnation of infected offal. Decisions regarding the treatment and control of echinococcosis rely on the accurate identification of species and population variants (strains). Conventional, phenetic methods for specific identification have some significant limitations. Despite advances in the development of molecular tools, there has been limited application of mutation scanning methods to species of Echinococcus. Here, we briefly review key genetic markers used for the identification of Echinococcus species and techniques for the analysis of genetic variation within and among populations, and the diagnosis of echinococcosis. We also discuss the benefits of utilizing mutation scanning approaches to elucidate the population genetics and epidemiology of Echinococcus species. These benefits are likely to become more evident following the complete characterization of the genomes of E. granulosus and E. multilocularis.
Publisher: Cambridge University Press (CUP)
Date: 28-08-2019
DOI: 10.1017/S0031182019001008
Abstract: The genetic variation and taxonomic status of the four morphologically-defined species of Macropostrongyloides in Australian macropodid and vombatid marsupials were examined using sequence data of the ITS+ region (=first and second internal transcribed spacers, and the 5.8S rRNA gene) of the nuclear ribosomal DNA. The results of the phylogenetic analyses revealed that Ma. baylisi was a species complex consisting of four genetically distinct groups, some of which are host-specific. In addition, Ma. lasiorhini in the common wombat ( Vombatus ursinus ) did not form a monophyletic clade with Ma. lasiorhini from the southern hairy-nosed wombat ( Lasiorhinus latifrons ), suggesting the possibility of cryptic (genetically distinct but morphologically similar) species. There was also some genetic ergence between Ma. dissimilis in sw wallabies ( Wallabia bicolor ) from different geographical regions. In contrast, there was no genetic ergence among specimens of Ma. yamagutii across its broad geographical range or between host species (i.e. Macropus fuliginosus and M. giganteus ). Macropostrongyloides dissimilis represented the sister taxon to Ma. baylisi , Ma. yamagutii and Ma. lasiorhini . Further morphological and molecular studies are required to assess the species complex of Ma. baylisi .
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 04-12-2021
DOI: 10.1186/S13071-021-05103-8
Abstract: Cyathostomins are the most important and common parasitic nematodes of horses, with 50 species known to occur worldwide. The frequent and indiscriminate use of anthelmintics has resulted in the development of anthelmintic resistance (AR) in horse nematodes. In this study we assessed the efficacy of commonly used anthelmintics against cyathostomins in Australian thoroughbred horses. Two drug efficacy trials per farm were conducted on two thoroughbred horse farms in the state of Victoria, Australia. In the first trial, the horses on Farm A were treated with single and combinations of anthelmintics, including oxfendazole (OFZ), abamectin (ABM), abamectin and morantel (ABM + MOR), moxidectin (MOX) and oxfendazole and pyrantel (OFZ + PYR), at the recommended doses, whereas the horses on Farm B only received MOX, at the recommended dose. The faecal egg count reduction test (FECRT) was used to determine the efficacy and egg reappearance period (ERP) of anthelmintics. Based on the results of the first trial, the efficacies of MOX and a combination of ABM + MOR were reassessed to confirm their activities against cyathostomins. Of the five anthelmintic products tested on Farm A, resistance against OFZ, ABM and OFZ + PYR was found, with efficacies of − 41% (− 195% lower confidence limit [LCL]), 73% (60% LCL) and 82% (66% LCL) at 2 weeks post-treatment, respectively. The FECRT showed high efficacies of MOX and ABM + MOR (100%) at 2 week post-treatment and shortened ERPs for these anthelmintics (ABM + MOR: 4 weeks MOX: 5 weeks). Resistance to MOX was found on Farm B, with a reduced efficacy of 90% (70% LCL) and 89% (82% LCL) at 2 weeks post-treatment in trials one and two, respectively. This study provides the first evidence of MOX- and multidrug-resistant (ABM and combinations of anthelmintics) cyathostomins in Australia and indicates the need for continuous surveillance of the efficacy of currently effective anthelmintics and large-scale investigations to assess the ERP for various anthelmintics.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 2022
DOI: 10.1016/J.TTBDIS.2021.101864
Abstract: The genus Anaplasma contains various species capable of causing disease in animals and humans. Anaplasma marginale is one of the main tick-borne pathogens of bovines in tropical and subtropical regions however, these bacteria are now being detected more frequently in other regions of the world including Europe. In July 2017, abortions, mortality and morbidity in Retinta breed of cattle were investigated in southwestern Spain. Based on clinical signs, the provisional clinical diagnosis of bovine anaplasmosis was made. A molecular-phylogenetic approach was used to characterize A. marginale using multiple markers, including 16S rRNA, msp1a, msp4 and msp5 genes. The msp1α sequence was different from the previously described sequences from Spain as well as other countries. The isolates of A. marginale were classified as Genotype C, with two of the five tandem repeats in the amino acid sequences MSP1α being novel. The highest variability was observed in the four sequences of msp5 which was depicted in their clustering into multiple clades on a phylogenetic tree. Comparison of msp5 nucleotide sequences and the corresponding amino acid sequences revealed the co-existence of different strains in the same region. This study highlights the occurrence of clinical bovine anaplasmosis in an endemic region of Spain.
Publisher: EDP Sciences
Date: 29-10-2014
Publisher: EDP Sciences
Date: 29-10-2014
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 07-01-2019
Publisher: EDP Sciences
Date: 29-10-2014
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 26-06-2021
DOI: 10.3390/PH14070616
Abstract: Parasitic worms cause very significant diseases in animals and humans worldwide, and their control is critical to enhance health, well-being and productivity. Due to widespread drug resistance in many parasitic worms of animals globally, there is a major, continuing demand for the discovery and development of anthelmintic drugs for use to control these worms. Here, we established a practical, cost-effective and semi-automated high throughput screening (HTS) assay, which relies on the measurement of motility of larvae of the barber’s pole worm (Haemonchus contortus) using infrared light-interference. Using this assay, we screened 80,500 small molecules and achieved a hit rate of 0.05%. We identified three small molecules that reproducibly inhibited larval motility and/or development (IC50 values of ~4 to 41 µM). Future work will critically assess the potential of selected hits as candidates for subsequent optimisation or repurposing against parasitic nematodes. This HTS assay has a major advantage over most previous assays in that it achieves a ≥ 10-times higher throughput (i.e., 10,000 compounds per week), and is thus suited to the screening of libraries of tens of thousands to hundreds of thousands of compounds for subsequent hit-to-lead optimisation or effective repurposing and development. The current assay should be adaptable to many socioeconomically important parasitic nematodes, including those that cause neglected tropical diseases (NTDs). This aspect is of relevance, given the goals of the World Health Organization (WHO) Roadmap for NTDs 2021–2030, to develop more effective drugs and drug combinations to improve patient outcomes and circumvent the ineffectiveness of some current anthelmintic drugs and possible drug resistance.
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 14-08-2020
DOI: 10.3390/ANI10081420
Abstract: The Western European Hedgehog (Erinaceous europaeus) is a nocturnal animal that is in decline in much of Europe, but the monitoring of this species is subjective, prone to error, and an inadequate basis for estimating population trends. Here, we report the use of Crenosoma striatum, a parasitic nematode specific to hedgehogs as definitive hosts, to detect hedgehog presence in the natural environment. This is achieved through collecting and s ling the parasites within their intermediate hosts, gastropoda, a group much simpler to locate and s le in both urban and rural habitats. C. striatum and Crenosoma vulpis were collected post-mortem from the lungs of hedgehogs and foxes, respectively. Slugs were collected in two sessions, during spring and autumn, from Skomer Island (n = 21), which is known to be free of hedgehogs (and foxes) and Pennard, Swansea (n = 42), known to have a healthy hedgehog population. The second internal transcribed spacer of parasite ribosomal DNA was used to develop a highly specific, novel, PCR based multiplex assay. Crenosoma striatum was found only at the site known to be inhabited by hedgehogs, at an average prevalence in gastropods of 10% in spring and autumn. The molecular test was highly specific: One mollusc was positive for both C. striatum and C. vulpis, and differentiation between the two nematode species was clear. This study demonstrates proof of principle for using detection of specific parasite DNA in easily s led intermediate hosts to confirm the presence of an elusive nocturnal definitive host species. The approach has great potential as an adaptable, objective tool to supplement and support existing ecological survey methods.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 06-2017
Abstract: Engaging secondary school students with science education is crucial for a society that demands a high level of scientific literacy in order to deal with the economic and social challenges of the 21st century. Here we present how parasitology could be used to engage and promote science in secondary school students under the auspice of a 'Specialist Centre' model for science education.
Publisher: EDP Sciences
Date: 02-2016
Publisher: EDP Sciences
Date: 03-2021
DOI: 10.1051/0004-6361/202040237
Abstract: The analysis of weak gravitational lensing in wide-field imaging surveys is considered to be a major cosmological probe of dark energy. Our capacity to constrain the dark energy equation of state relies on an accurate knowledge of the galaxy mean redshift ⟨ z ⟩. We investigate the possibility of measuring ⟨ z ⟩ with an accuracy better than 0.002 (1 + z ) in ten tomographic bins spanning the redshift interval 0.2 z 2.2, the requirements for the cosmic shear analysis of Euclid . We implement a sufficiently realistic simulation in order to understand the advantages and complementarity, as well as the shortcomings, of two standard approaches: the direct calibration of ⟨ z ⟩ with a dedicated spectroscopic s le and the combination of the photometric redshift probability distribution functions ( z PDFs) of in idual galaxies. We base our study on the Horizon-AGN hydrodynamical simulation, which we analyse with a standard galaxy spectral energy distribution template-fitting code. Such a procedure produces photometric redshifts with realistic biases, precisions, and failure rates. We find that the current Euclid design for direct calibration is sufficiently robust to reach the requirement on the mean redshift, provided that the purity level of the spectroscopic s le is maintained at an extremely high level of 99.8%. The z PDF approach can also be successful if the z PDF is de-biased using a spectroscopic training s le. This approach requires deep imaging data but is weakly sensitive to spectroscopic redshift failures in the training s le. We improve the de-biasing method and confirm our finding by applying it to real-world weak-lensing datasets (COSMOS and KiDS+VIKING-450).
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 11-2006
DOI: 10.1016/J.JEP.2006.04.015
Abstract: A survey was conducted in southern Punjab, Pakistan, in order to document existing ethnobotanical knowledge by the herdsmen/key respondents about anthelmintics in ruminants. A 3-satge process was used to document the plants being used to treat and/or control helminthes. This paper describes 29 plants to treat helminthosis in ruminants. The main plants used were Lamium lexicaule L., Mallotus philippinensis Muell., Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal., Azadirachta indica A. Juss., and Citrullus colocynthis (L.) Schrad. A few of these plants have been scientifically validated for their claim by herdsmen on modern lines while majority of them still needs investigations. This documentation could provide a foundation for the scientific study and verification of those plants which merit such study.
Publisher: American Society for Microbiology
Date: 2018
DOI: 10.1128/JCM.01469-17
Abstract: Accurate and rapid diagnosis is crucial in combating parasitic diseases that cause millions of deaths worldwide. However, the scarcity of specialized diagnostic equipment in low- and middle-income countries is one of the barriers to effective management of parasitic diseases and warrants the need for alternative, inexpensive, point-of-care diagnostic tools. Due to their multiple built-in sensors, smartphones offer cost-effective alternative to expensive diagnostic devices. However, the use of smartphones in parasitic diagnoses remains in its infancy. This minireview describes various smartphone-based devices applied specifically for the diagnosis of parasitic diseases and discusses challenges and potential implications for their use in future.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 05-2014
DOI: 10.1016/J.VETPAR.2014.01.026
Abstract: Equine piroplasmosis (EP) caused by intraerythrocytic parasites (Theileria equi and Babesia caballi) is an emerging equine disease of world-wide distribution. In Pakistan, the prevalence and incidence of EP are unknown. In order to obtain the first insights into the prevalence of the disease, a total of 430 equids, including 33 mules, 65 horses and 332 donkeys, aging from ≤ 5 to ≥ 10 years of either sex, from five metropolises of Punjab, Pakistan, were serologically tested for the presence of antibodies directed against B. caballi and T. equi, using a competitive enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (cELISA). Out of 430 equid serum s les tested, 226 (52.6%, 95% CI 47.7-57.4) were found cELISA positive for EP (T. equi and/or B. caballi infections). The overall seroprevalence of EP was 41.2% (95% CI 36.5-46.0) for T. equi and 21.6% (95% CI 17.8-25.8) for B. caballi. A small proportion of equids (10.2%, 95% CI 7.5-13.5) was seropositive for both T. equi and B. caballi. Seroprevalence of T. equi was significantly higher (P<0.01) in equines from the metropolis of Lahore (66.7%, 95% CI 54.3-77.6) and in horses (56.9%, 95% CI 44.0-69.2). Multivariable logistic regression model analysis indicated that factors associated with prevalence of EP were being an equine species kept in metropolis Lahore (OR=4.24, 95% CI 2.28-7.90), horse (OR=2.82, 95% CI 1.53-5.20) and male equids (OR=1.81, 95% CI 1.15-2.86).
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 24-06-2016
Publisher: Cambridge University Press (CUP)
Date: 16-10-2009
DOI: 10.1017/S0031182009991260
Abstract: Taeniid eggs contain an infective larval form of the parasite, known as the oncosphere, which has been found to be highly susceptible to attack by the host's immune system and this fact has been exploited in the development of highly effective vaccines. Relatively little is known about the structure of taeniid oncospheres and the localization of host-protective antigens within or on the oncosphere. Here, we briefly review the current state of knowledge of the structure of the oncosphere and present preliminary data on the localization of a host-protective antigen within the oncospheres of Taenia ovis . The precise localization of the antigens, in the context of a detailed knowledge of the ultrastructure of the parasite, may reveal the immune mechanisms by which the taeniid parasites are killed by vaccine-induced immune responses, which, in turn, may provide clues about how vaccines could be developed against other parasitic helminths.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 08-2006
Publisher: EDP Sciences
Date: 30-09-2015
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 07-2012
Abstract: Bovine theileriosis is a tick-borne disease caused by one or more hemoprotozoan parasites of the genus Theileria. In the past, Theileria infection in cattle in Australia was largely asymptomatic and recognized to be associated with Theileria buffeli. However, outbreaks of theileriosis have occurred in beef and dairy cattle in subtropical climatic regions (New South Wales) of Australia. There is also one published report of a recent theileriosis outbreak in a beef farm near Seymour in the southeastern state of Victoria. In order to gain an improved insight into the genetic composition of Theileria populations following this outbreak, we undertook herein an integrated PCR-coupled mutation scanning-sequencing-phylogenetic analysis of sequence variation in part of the major piroplasm surface protein (MPSP) gene within and among s les from cattle involved in the outbreak. Theileria DNA was detected in 89.4% of 94 cattle in the Seymour farm the genetic analysis showed that the ikeda and chitose genotypes representing the Theileria orientalis complex were detected in 75 and 4.8% of 84 infected cattle, respectively, and that mixed populations of these two genotypes were found in 20.2% of infected cattle. Given unpublished reports of a significant increase in the number of outbreaks in Victoria, future investigations should focus sharply on elucidating the epidemiology of Theileria to subvert the economic impact on the cattle industry in this state. Although used here to explore genetic variation within the T. orientalis complex in Australia, a mutation scanning-based approach has broad applicability to other species of Theileria in other countries.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 27-01-2012
Abstract: Anisakidosis is an important fish-borne disease caused by the larvae of anisakid nematodes, which affects humans and a range of other animals. The accurate identification of members of this nematode group is central to investigating the epidemiology of the parasites and in the surveillance and control of anisakidosis. It is now well known that morphological identification alone does not allow specific identification, particularly of larval stages. To better understand the epidemiology of anisakid nematodes in southern Australian fishes and the potential risks posed to human health, a survey of 50 specimens of the commercially important fish, Sillago flindersi, from Bass Strait, Australia was conducted. We characterised anisakid larvae by PCR-coupled mutation scanning, sequencing and phylogenetic analyses of the first and second internal transcribed spacers (ITS-1 and ITS-2) of nuclear ribosomal DNA. This study revealed that 92% of the S. flindersi examined were infected with anisakids (n=194), which were represented by seven genotypes. Phylogenetic analyses of the genotypes defined herein, together with reference sequence for Anisakis pegreffii and Hysterothylacium sp. from public databases (i.e. GenBank), revealed the presence of A. pegreffii (n=24), Hysterothylacium larval type IV (n=90) and Hysterothylacium larval type VIII (n=80) in S. flindersi. Thus, the PCR-coupled mutation scanning approach employed herein is an effective tool for the genetic characterisation of anisakid nematodes for diagnostic and analytical purposes (nucleotide sequences reported in this paper are available in the GenBank database under accession nos. JN631796-809).
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 04-2019
Abstract: Adaptive learning activities can respond to a learner's needs in real time, facilitating the development of higher-level skills including bringing together knowledge from different disciplines to solve real-world problems. Here we discuss the use of online adaptive learning activities designed to help veterinary students apply their knowledge to work through parasite case studies.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 16-07-2014
DOI: 10.1007/S00436-014-4019-1
Abstract: A new species of strongyloid nematode from the genus Cloacina (Chabertiidae: Cloacininae) is described from the stomach of the hill kangaroo or euro (Macropus robustus) (Marsupialia: Macropodidae) from Western Australia. Cloacina atthis sp. nov. was found only in euros from the Pilbara region in the northwest of Western Australia, in spite of extensive collecting of the same host species from around the Australian continent. C. atthis is most closely related to Cloacina clymene, a species found in the same host species but only in the eastern half of the continent the two species differ in minor morphological features (the shape of the wall of the buccal capsule, spicule lengths, the degree of sclerotisation of the gubernaculum and the shape of the vagina) as well as in differences in the internal transcribed spacers of ribosomal DNA. This study highlights the importance of using molecular methods when investigating the apparently disjunct distributions of strongyloid nematodes.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 30-04-2019
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 13-01-2021
DOI: 10.3390/ANI11010175
Abstract: The strongyloid nematodes belonging to the subfamily Phascolostrongylinae occur primarily in the large intestines of macropodid and vombatid marsupials. Current molecular evidence suggests that the two nematode species, Macropostrongyloides dissimilis and Paramacropostrongylus toraliformis, from macropodid marsupials are distant from their respective congeners. Furthermore, specimens of Macropostrongyloides lasiorhini from the large intestines of the southern hairy-nosed wombat (Lasiorhinus latifrons) and the common wombat (Vombatus ursinus) are genetically distinct. This study aimed to describe the new genera Torquenema n. g. (with T. toraliforme n. comb. as the type species) from the eastern grey kangaroo, Wallabicola n. g. (with W. dissimilis n. comb. as the type species) from the sw wallaby and a new species Macropostrongyloides phascolomys n. sp. from the common wombat, using light and scanning electron microscopy.
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 08-07-2021
DOI: 10.3390/MOLECULES26144156
Abstract: In the present study, we established a practical and cost-effective high throughput screening assay, which relies on the measurement of the motility of Caenorhabditis elegans by infrared light-interference. Using this assay, we screened 14,400 small molecules from the “HitFinder” library (Maybridge), achieving a hit rate of 0.3%. We identified small molecules that reproducibly inhibited the motility of C. elegans (young adults) and assessed dose relationships for a subset of compounds. Future work will critically evaluate the potential of some of these hits as candidates for subsequent optimisation or repurposing as nematocides or nematostats. This high throughput screening assay has the advantage over many previous assays in that it is cost- and time-effective to carry out and achieves a markedly higher throughput (~10,000 compounds per week) therefore, it is suited to the screening of libraries of tens to hundreds of thousands of compounds for subsequent evaluation and development. The present phenotypic whole-worm assay should be readily adaptable to a range of socioeconomically important parasitic nematodes of humans and animals, depending on their dimensions and motility characteristics in vitro, for the discovery of new anthelmintic candidates. This focus is particularly important, given the widespread problems associated with drug resistance in many parasitic worms of livestock animals globally.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 2013
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 10-2012
DOI: 10.1016/J.MEEGID.2012.04.014
Abstract: A 9 year-old male, neutered cat with a history of a sudden onset of lethargy, anorexia and respiratory distress was presented in a veterinary practice in Lucca, Italy. A clinical examination revealed that the cat was severely dehydrated, and had pale mucous membranes and tachypnoea. No pain or discomfort was detected at the time of physical examination. The cat was administered fluids, antibiotics and supportive therapy, but died overnight. The owner of the cat requested for a post mortem examination to be conducted. At necropsy, acephalic structures, consistent with proliferative tapeworm (cestode) larvae, were detected in the thoracic cavity on pleural surfaces. As these larvae could not be identified to genus or species by microscopy, a PCR-based sequencing-phylogenetic approach was used. Part of the cytochrome c oxidase subunit 1 gene was PCR- lified from genomic DNAs from five in idual larvae and sequenced all five sequences obtained were identical. This consensus sequence was aligned (over 355 nucleotide positions) with homologous sequences representing a range of cestodes (including Echinococcus granulosus, Echinococcus multilocularis, Hymenolepis microstoma, Mesocestoides spp. and Taenia saginata) from previously published studies and then subjected to phylogenetic analysis. The sequence representing the larval cestode from the affected cat grouped, with strong statistical support, with those representing Mesocestoides corti and Mesocestoides lineatus. Therefore, a definitive diagnosis of pleural proliferative larval mesocestoidiasis could be made. This study illustrates the value of using molecular tools to directly assist clinical and pathological investigations of cestodiases of animals.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 05-07-2017
Publisher: EDP Sciences
Date: 02-2013
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 10-01-2018
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 21-02-2022
DOI: 10.3390/PH15020257
Abstract: Parasitic nematodes cause diseases in livestock animals and major economic losses to the agricultural industry worldwide. Nematodes of the order Strongylida, including Haemonchus contortus, are particularly important. The excessive use of anthelmintic compounds to treat infections and disease has led to widespread resistance to these compounds in nematodes, such that there is a need for new anthelmintics with distinctive mechanisms of action. With a focus on discovering new anthelmintic entities, we screened 400 chemically erse compounds within the ‘Pandemic Response Box’ (from Medicines for Malaria Venture, MMV) for activity against H. contortus and its free-living relative, Caenorhabditis elegans—a model organism. Using established phenotypic assays, test compounds were evaluated in vitro for their ability to inhibit the motility and/or development of H. contortus and C. elegans. Dose-response evaluations identified a compound, MMV1581032, that significantly the motility of H. contortus larvae (IC50 = 3.4 ± 1.1 μM) and young adults of C. elegans (IC50 = 7.1 ± 4.6 μM), and the development of H. contortus larvae (IC50 = 2.2 ± 0.7 μM). The favourable characteristics of MMV1581032, such as suitable physicochemical properties and an efficient, cost-effective pathway to analogue synthesis, indicates a promising candidate for further evaluation as a nematocide. Future work will focus on a structure-activity relationship investigation of this chemical scaffold, a toxicity assessment of potent analogues and a mechanism/mode of action investigation.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 19-10-2017
Publisher: EDP Sciences
Date: 29-10-2014
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 06-2015
DOI: 10.1016/J.VETPAR.2015.04.025
Abstract: P-glycoproteins (P-gps) play an important role in the sensitivity of nematodes to anthelmintic drugs. They have been implicated in a number of anthelmintic resistances, particularly for macrocyclic lactone drugs. Hence, inhibition of nematode P-gps has been suggested as a means of reversing some types of anthelmintic resistance. The present study aimed to investigate the ability of the most-recently developed group of P-gp inhibitors (the so-called 'third generation' of inhibitors) including tariquidar, zosuquidar and elacridar, to increase the sensitivity of Haemonchus contortus larvae to various anthelmintics (ivermectin, levamisole and thiabendazole) in vitro. We compared these compounds to some older P-gp inhibitors (e.g. verapamil and valspodar). Larval migration and development assays were used to measure the sensitivity of larvae to anthelmintics alone, or in combination with P-gp inhibitors. Significant increases in sensitivity to ivermectin were observed with zosuquidar and tariquidar in larval migration assays (synergism ratios up to 6-fold). Several of the inhibitors increased the sensitivity of both the drug-resistant and -susceptible isolates (e.g. tariquidar with ivermectin in migration assays, zosuquidar with ivermectin in larval development assays), while others had significant effects on the resistant isolate only (e.g. zosuquidar with ivermectin in migration assays, verapamil with ivermectin in development assays). This suggests that some of the inhibitors interact with P-gps representing intrinsic pathways present across nematode populations with quite different drug sensitivities, while other inhibitors interact with P-gps of significance only to resistant nematodes, and hence most likely representing an acquired resistance mechanism. The study highlights the potential of the third generation of P-gp inhibitors for increasing the sensitivity of nematodes to anthelmintics.
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 11-11-2020
Abstract: Ticks and tick-borne diseases (TTBDis) are a major constraint to the health and production of small ruminants in Pakistan. Despite being the subject of intermittent studies over the past few decades, comprehensive information on the epidemiology and control of TTBDis is lacking. Herein, we have systematically reviewed the current knowledge on TTBDis of small ruminants in Pakistan. Critical appraisal of the selected 71 articles published between 1947 to 2020 revealed that morphological examination had been the most widely used method for the identification of TTBDis in Pakistan. Tick fauna comprise at least 40 species, mainly belonging to Haemaphysalis, Hyalomma and Rhipicephalus. The prevalence of ticks is the highest in summer (June–September) and it is also higher in goats than sheep. Anaplasma, Babesia and Theileria spp. are the major tick-borne pathogens (TBPs), and their prevalence is usually higher in sheep than goats. Spatio-temporal distribution, genetic ersity and control of ticks and TBPs of small ruminants as well as the competence of tick vectors for various TBPs remain to be explored. Therefore, coordinated and focused investigations are required to fill knowledge gaps in these areas to maximise the health, production and welfare of small ruminants and minimise economic losses associated with TTBDis in Pakistan.
Publisher: EDP Sciences
Date: 29-10-2014
Publisher: EDP Sciences
Date: 20-07-2015
Publisher: EDP Sciences
Date: 29-10-2014
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 10-2016
DOI: 10.1016/J.MEEGID.2016.06.037
Abstract: This study examined genetic variation within and among species of Cloacina found in the common wallaroo (Macropus robustus) collected at different localities from mainland Australia, and evaluated geographical distance as a potential driver for genetic variation. The first and second internal transcribed spacers (ITS-1 and ITS-2=ITS) of nuclear ribosomal DNA were used to characterize in iduals of 17 morphospecies of Cloacina that parasitize Macropus robustus and its sub-species. Results revealed intraspecific variation in ITS within some morphospecies of Cloacina. Phylogenetic analyses showed little correlation between host speciation patterns and geographical location for the majority of the nematode species, although it did suggest geographical distance was a driver for speciation within Cloacina communis, C. phaethon and C. parva. Our results suggest that nucleotide variation within Cloacina species is complex, and is likely to be propagated by factors such as geographical distance and host sub-species. Further studies determining factors involved in speciation, such as host-parasite relationships, are needed to improve our understanding of the ersity of populations of species of Cloacina.
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 15-05-2021
DOI: 10.3390/PATHOGENS10050605
Abstract: Toxoplasma gondii is the zoonotic parasite responsible for toxoplasmosis in warm-blooded vertebrates. This systematic review compares and evaluates the available knowledge on enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISAs), their components, and performance in detecting T. gondii antibodies in animals. Four databases were searched for published scientific studies on T. gondii and ELISA, and 57 articles were included. Overall, indirect (95%) and in-house (67%) ELISAs were the most used types of test among the studies examined, but the ‘ID Screen® Toxoplasmosis Indirect Multi-species’ was common among commercially available tests. Varying diagnostic performance (sensitivity and specificity) and Kappa agreements were observed depending on the type of s le (serum, meat juice, milk), antigen (native, recombinant, chimeric) and antibody-binding reagents used. Combinations of recombinant and chimeric antigens resulted in better performance than native or single recombinant antigens. Protein A/G appeared to be useful in detecting IgG antibodies in a wide range of animal species due to its non-species-specific binding. One study reported cross-reactivity, with Hammondia hammondi and Eimeria spp. This is the first systematic review to descriptively compare ELISAs for the detection of T. gondii antibodies across different animal species.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 07-2016
DOI: 10.1016/J.TTBDIS.2016.03.005
Abstract: This study reports the first molecular characterization of Theileria orientalis in local breeds of cattle in Ethiopia. A conventional PCR utilizing major piroplasm surface protein (MPSP) gene and an established multiplexed tandem PCR (MT-PCR) were used to characterize T. orientalis and to assess the infection intensity, respectively. Of 232 blood s les tested, T. orientalis DNA was detected in only 2.2% of s les using conventional PCR two genotypes buffeli (1.3% 3/232) and type 5 (0.9% 2/232) of T. orientalis were detected. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that the buffeli MPSP sequences from Ethiopia were closely related to those reported from Kenya, Sri Lanka and Myanmar, and type 5 sequences from Ethiopia grouped with those from Korea, Japan, Vietnam and Thailand. A higher number of s les (3.9% 9/232) were test-positive by MT-PCR and four genotypes (buffeli, chitose, ikeda and type 5) of T. orientalis were detected. The average intensity of infections with genotypes buffeli (DNA copy numbers 11,056) and type 5 (7508) were significantly higher (P<0.0001) than the pathogenic genotype ikeda (61 DNA copies). This first insight into T. orientalis from cattle in Ethiopia using MPSP gene provides a basis for future studies of T. orientalis in various agroclimatic zones and of the impact of oriental theilerosis on cattle in this and other countries of Africa.
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 12-12-2020
Abstract: Nematodes of the genus Macropostrongyloides inhabit the large intestines or stomachs of macropodid (kangaroos and wallabies) and vombatid (wombats) marsupials. This study established the relationships of seven species of Macropostrongyloides using mitochondrial (mt) protein amino acid sequence data sets. Phylogenetic analyses revealed that species of Macropostrongyloides (M. lasiorhini, M. baylisi, M. yamagutii, M. spearei, M. mawsonae and M. woodi) from the large intestines of their hosts formed a monophyletic assemblage with strong nodal support to the exclusion of M. dissimilis from the stomach of the sw wallaby. Furthermore, the mitochondrial protein-coding genes provided greater insights into the ersity and phylogeny of the genus Macropostrongyloides such data sets could potentially be used to elucidate the relationships among other parasitic nematodes of Australian marsupials.
Publisher: EDP Sciences
Date: 29-10-2014
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 07-07-2017
Publisher: EDP Sciences
Date: 29-10-2014
Publisher: EDP Sciences
Date: 29-10-2014
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 10-04-2023
DOI: 10.1111/MEC.16949
Abstract: In idual animals in natural populations tend to host erse parasite species concurrently over their lifetimes. In free‐living ecological communities, organismal life histories shape interactions with their environment, which ultimately forms the basis of ecological succession. However, the structure and dynamics of mammalian parasite communities have not been contextualized in terms of primary ecological succession, in part because few datasets track occupancy and abundance of multiple parasites in wild hosts starting at birth. Here, we studied community dynamics of 12 subtypes of protozoan microparasites ( Theileria spp.) in a herd of African buffalo. We show that Theileria communities followed predictable patterns of succession underpinned by four different parasite life history strategies. However, in contrast to many free‐living communities, network complexity decreased with host age. Examining parasite communities through the lens of succession may better inform the effect of complex within host eco‐evolutionary dynamics on infection outcomes, including parasite co‐existence through the lifetime of the host.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 15-05-2013
DOI: 10.1007/S11230-013-9417-8
Abstract: Three species of Kiluluma Skrjabin, 1916 were identified in Ceratotherium simium (Burchell) from a captive population in New South Wales, Australia, based on analysis of the second internal transcribed spacer (ITS-2) of ribosomal DNA. One species was identified as K. solitaria Thapar, 1924 and is redescribed. A second species is new and is described here as K. ceratotherii n. sp. The third species is new but was represented by two in iduals only and is described but is not named.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 09-12-2014
DOI: 10.1007/S00436-014-4245-6
Abstract: Members of the genus Crassicauda (Nematoda: Spirurida) are parasites of the body tissues of whales and dolphins. Owing to the large size of worms and difficulties in the recovery of entire nematodes from the tissues of hosts, limited information is available on morphological descriptions of both male and female worms. Furthermore, there are currently no available sequence data for this genus to assist with such identifications. This paper describes for the first time features of the anterior extremity and the male tail of Crassicauda magna, suggesting that Crassicauda duguyi may be a synonym of this species. In addition, molecular data are presented for the genus for the first time suggesting that the genus belongs within the superfamily Acuarioidea rather than within the Habronematoidea, in which it is currently placed.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 10-2018
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 08-2023
Publisher: EDP Sciences
Date: 29-10-2014
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 20-05-2019
DOI: 10.1007/S11230-019-09855-X
Abstract: The helminth parasites of the western scrub wallaby or black-glove wallaby, Notamacropus irma (Jourdan) which occurs in Western Australia are relatively poorly documented. Six new species of the strongyloid genus Cloacina von Linstow, 1898 (Strongylida: Chabertiidae) are described namely C. asymmetrica n. sp., C. brazellei n. sp., C. harriganae n. sp., C. hobbsi n. sp., C. middletoni n. sp. and C. woodi n. sp. A redescription of C. laius Beveridge, 1999 from the same host species is included. Molecular sequence data (ITS1 and ITS2 ribosomal DNA) were obtained for C. asymmetrica, C. brazellei, C. hobbsi, C. middletoni and from the previously described species C. themis Beveridge, 1998 occurring in the same host species. Phylogenetically, C. asymmetrica, C. hobbsi and C. middletoni formed a distinct clade, suggesting the possibility of within-host speciation. Cloacina themis clustered with a group of morphologically distinctive species in a separate clade and C. brazellei clustered in a third clade but with poor support. This pattern of congeners in a single host species occurring in multiple clades mirrors the situation in other kangaroos and wallabies. Species of Cloacina from N. irma reported thus far therefore consist of a series of species found only in this host, with two species (C. brazellei and C. laius) shared with the sympatric macropodid Setonix brachyurus (Quoy & Gaimard).
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 10-2010
DOI: 10.1016/J.IJPARA.2010.04.011
Abstract: The cellular organisation of Taenia ovis oncospheres is interpreted from ultrathin serial sections and transmission electron microscopy following high pressure freezing and freeze-substitution. The surface of a hatched, non-activated T. ovis oncosphere is covered by an oncospheral membrane below which is the tegument bearing microvilli. The basal lamina of the tegument is underlain by broad bands of peripheral somatic musculature. Three pairs of hooks and associated muscles are present in the somatophoric third of the oncosphere. Approximately 19 cells of seven different types were identified which include: (i) a quadri-nucleated syncytium of penetration gland type 1 containing two lateral pairs of cell bodies interconnected by narrow cytoplasmic bridges (PG1) (ii) a quadri-nucleated syncytium of penetration gland type 2 (PG2) (iii) a single-nucleated median mesophoric gland cell (iv) 10 somatic cells (v) two germinative cells (vi) two nerve cells and (vii) a pair of median somatophoric cells. This study provides a clear understanding of the morphology of T. ovis oncospheres and forms the basis for further investigations into the biology of taeniid oncospheres.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 10-2007
DOI: 10.1016/J.JEP.2007.07.027
Abstract: The present study was carried out to determine the anthelmintic activity of Caesalpinia crista (L.) (Fabaceae) seed kernel and Chenopodium album (L.) (Chenopodiaceae) whole plant in order to justify their traditional use in veterinary medicine. In vitro anthelmintic activity of crude aqueous methanolic extract (AME) of both the plants was determined using mature Haemonchus contortus and their eggs in adult motility assay and egg hatch test, respectively. In vivo anthelmintic activity was evaluated in sheep naturally infected with mixed species of gastrointestinal nematodes by administering crude powder (CP) and AME in increasing doses (1.0-3.0 g/kg). Both plants exhibited dose- and time-dependent anthelmintic effects by causing mortality of worms and inhibition of egg hatching. Caesalpinia crista (LC50=0.134 mg/mL) was found to be more potent than Chenopodium album (LC50=0.449 mg/mL) in egg hatch test. In vivo, maximum reduction in eggs per gram (EPG) of faeces was recorded as 93.9 and 82.2% with Caesalpinia crista and Chenopodium album AME at 3.0 g/kg on day 13 and 5 post-treatment, respectively. Levamisole (7.5 mg/kg), a standard anthelmintic agent, showed 95.1-95.6% reduction in EPG. These data show that both Caesalpinia crista and Chenopodium album possess anthelmintic activity in vitro and in vivo, thus, justifying their use in the traditional medicine system of Pakistan.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 07-2020
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 24-04-2020
DOI: 10.3390/MOLECULES25082004
Abstract: Kava extract, an aqueous rhizome emulsion of the plant Piper methysticum, has been used for centuries by Pacific Islanders as a ceremonial beverage, and has been sold as an anxiolytic agent for some decades. Kavalactones are a major constituent of kava extract. In a previous investigation, we had identified three kavalactones that inhibit larval development of Haemonchus contortus in an in vitro-bioassay. In the present study, we synthesized two kavalactones, desmethoxyyangonin and yangonin, as well as 17 analogues thereof, and evaluated their anthelmintic activities using the same bioassay as employed previously. Structure activity relationship (SAR) studies showed that a 4-substituent on the pendant aryl ring was required for activity. In particular, compounds with 4-trifluoromethoxy, 4-difluoromethoxy, 4-phenoxy, and 4-N-morpholine substitutions had anthelmintic activities (IC50 values in the range of 1.9 to 8.9 µM) that were greater than either of the parent natural products—desmethoxyyangonin (IC50 of 37.1 µM) and yangonin (IC50 of 15.0 µM). The synthesized analogues did not exhibit toxicity on HepG2 human hepatoma cells in vitro at concentrations of up to 40 µM. These findings confirm the previously-identified kavalactone scaffold as a promising chemotype for new anthelmintics and provide a basis for a detailed SAR investigation focused on developing a novel anthelmintic agent.
Publisher: EDP Sciences
Date: 29-10-2014
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 11-2023
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 17-01-2023
DOI: 10.3390/PATHOGENS12020153
Abstract: Ticks and tick-borne pathogens pose a significant threat to the health and welfare of humans and animals. Our knowledge about pathogens carried by ticks of Australian wildlife is limited. This study aimed to characterise ticks and tick-borne microorganisms from a range of wildlife species across six sites in Victoria, Australia. Following morphological and molecular characterisation (targeting 16S rRNA and cytochrome c oxidase I), tick DNA extracts (n = 140) were subjected to microfluidic real-time PCR-based screening for the detection of microorganisms and Rickettsia-specific real-time qPCRs. Five species of ixodid ticks were identified, including Aponomma auruginans, Ixodes (I.) antechini, I. kohlsi, I. tasmani and I. trichosuri. Phylogenetic analyses of 16S rRNA sequences of I. tasmani revealed two subclades, indicating a potential cryptic species. The microfluidic real-time PCR detected seven different microorganisms as a single (in 13/45 ticks) or multiple infections (27/45). The most common microorganisms detected were Apicomplexa (84.4%, 38/45) followed by Rickettsia sp. (55.6%, 25/45), Theileria sp. (22.2% 10/45), Bartonella sp. (17.8%, 8/45), Coxiella-like sp. (6.7%, 3/45), Hepatozoon sp. (2.2%, 1/45), and Ehrlichia sp. (2.2%, 1/45). Phylogenetic analyses of four Rickettsia loci showed that the Rickettsia isolates detected herein potentially belonged to a novel species of Rickettsia. This study demonstrated that ticks of Australian wildlife carry a erse array of microorganisms. Given the direct and indirect human–wildlife–livestock interactions, there is a need to adopt a One Health approach for continuous surveillance of tick-associated pathogens/microorganisms to minimise the associated threats to animal and human health.
Publisher: Future Science Ltd
Date: 11-2022
Abstract: Background: To discover novel lead molecules against diabetes, Alzheimer's disease and oxidative stress, a library of arylated pyrazole-fused pyran derivatives, 1-20 , were synthesized in a one-pot reaction. Materials & methods: 1 H-NMR spectroscopic and electron ionization mass spectrometry techniques were used to characterize the synthetic hybrid molecules 1-20 . Analogs were screened against four indispensable therapeutic targets, including α -amylase, α -glucosidase, acetylcholinesterase and butyrylcholinesterase enzymes. Results: Except for derivatives 17 and 18 , all other compounds exhibited varying degrees of inhibitory activities against target enzymes. The kinetic studies revealed that the synthetic molecules followed a competitive-type mode of inhibition for α -amylase and acetylcholinesterase enzymes, as well as a non-competitive mode of inhibition for α -glucosidase and butyrylcholinesterase enzymes. In addition, molecular docking studies identified crucial binding interactions of ligands with the enzyme's active site. Conclusion: These molecules may serve as a potential drug candidate to cure diabetes, Alzheimer's disease and oxidative stress in the future.
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 2006
Publisher: EDP Sciences
Date: 29-10-2014
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 02-2010
DOI: 10.1016/J.VETPAR.2009.10.022
Abstract: This study was carried out to evaluate three Pakistani sheep breeds (Kachhi, Lohi and Thalli) for their natural resistance against artificial infection of Haemonchus contortus. Lambs were weaned at 3 months of age, housed in separate pens and treated with Avermectin to eliminate gastrointestinal nematode infection. Each lamb was infected orally with approximately 10,000 third stage larvae of H. contortus. Selected breeds were compared on the basis of parasitological, haematological, biochemical and histopathological parameters over a period of 9 weeks. Faecal egg counts were measured weekly while packed cell volume, total serum protein, serum albumin and live weight were determined fortnightly. At 9th-week post-infection, 10 animals of each breed were randomly selected and slaughtered for worm, eosinophil and mast cell counts from the abomasum of each animal. Faecal egg counts and worm burden were significantly lower (P<0.05) in Lohi sheep than Kachhi and Thalli breeds. Furthermore, the Lohi breed also exhibited the highest levels of packed cell volume, total serum protein, albumin as well as eosinophils and mast cell counts. Breed x week interaction also remained significant (P<0.05) in most of the parameters for Lohi breed. The results suggested that Lohi breed expressed a significant innate resistance to artificial infection of H. contortus.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 10-2018
DOI: 10.1016/J.MEEGID.2018.06.016
Abstract: Cystic echinococcosis (CE) is a zoonotic disease caused by the larval stage of the species complex Echinococcus granulosus sensu lato. Within this complex, genotypes G6 and G7 have been frequently associated with human CE worldwide. Previous studies exploring the genetic variability and phylogeography of genotypes G6 and G7 have been based on relatively short mtDNA sequences, and the resolution of these studies has often been low. Moreover, using short sequences, the distinction between G6 and G7 has in some cases remained challenging. The aim here was to sequence complete mitochondrial genomes (mitogenomes) to obtain deeper insight into the genetic ersity, phylogeny and population structure of genotypes G6 and G7. We sequenced complete mitogenomes of 94 s les collected from 15 different countries worldwide. The results demonstrated that (i) genotypes G6 and G7 can be clearly distinguished when mitogenome sequences are used (ii) G7 is represented by two major haplogroups, G7a and G7b, the latter being specific to islands of Corsica and Sardinia (iii) intensive animal trade, but also geographical isolation, have likely had the largest impact on shaping the genetic structure and distribution of genotypes G6 and G7. In addition, we found phylogenetically highly ergent haplotype from Mongolia (Gmon), which had a higher affinity to G6.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 03-2017
DOI: 10.1016/J.TTBDIS.2017.01.003
Abstract: Bovine anaplasmosis is a tick-borne disease, mainly caused by Anaplasma marginale and A. centrale and is distributed in tropical and sub-tropical areas. This study aimed to characterise A. marginale and A. centrale from African buffaloes in Kruger National Park (KNP), South Africa, using the DNA sequences of the genes coding for major surface protein (msp1β) and heat shock protein (groEL), respectively. A total of 747 blood s les were collected from February 2014 to August 2016 from African buffaloes kept in KNP, and DNAs were tested using a molecular-phylogenetic approach. Out of 747 s les tested, 129 (17.3%) and 98 (13.1%) were positive for single infection with A. marginale and A. centrale, respectively whereas 113 (15.1%) were positive for both Anaplasma spp. Pairwise difference of 1.6-8.5% was observed in msp1β sequences of A. marginale whereas that was only 0.3-2.4% for groEL sequences of A. centrale. Separate phylogenetic analyses of msp1β and groEL sequences of A. marginale and A. centrale, respectively, revealed that sequences of Anaplasma spp. from African buffaloes were unique and they grouped separately when compared with previously published sequences of both species. This is the first study to characterise A. marginale and A. centrale from African buffalo using species specific molecular markers. This study will pave the way for future studies to assess genetic variation among Anaplasma spp. from wild ruminants using molecular markers that are better at differentiating between species and strains than the more commonly used 16S rRNA gene, and help to undertake health and fitness studies and host-parasite dynamics using quantitative molecular tools.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 2021
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 05-06-2020
Abstract: Oriental theileriosis is an economically important tickborne disease of bovines, caused by some members of the Theileria orientalis complex. Currently, 11 distinct operational taxonomic units (OTUs), or genotypes, are recognized based on their major piroplasm surface protein (MPSP) gene sequences. Two of these genotypes (i.e., chitose and ikeda) are recognized as pathogenic in cattle, causing significant disease in countries of the Asia-Pacific region. However, the true extent of genetic variation and associated virulence athogenicity within this complex is unknown. Here, we undertook a proof-of-principle study of a small panel of genomic DNAs (n = 13) from blood s les originating from in idual cattle known to harbor T. orientalis, in order to assess the performance of a targeted “next-generation” sequencing-informatic approach to identify genotypes. Five genotypes (chitose, ikeda, buffeli, type 4, and type 5) were defined multiple genotypes were found within in idual s les, with dominant and minor sequence types representing most genotypes. This study indicates that this sequencing-informatic workflow could be useful to assess the nature and extent of genetic variation within and among populations of T. orientalis on a large scale, and to potentially employ panels of distinct gene markers for expanded molecular epidemiological investigations of socioeconomically important protistan pathogens more generally.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 11-2005
DOI: 10.1016/J.JEP.2005.06.022
Abstract: The anthelmintic activity of Calotropis (C.) procera flowers in comparison with levamisole was evaluated through in vitro and in vivo studies. In vitro studies revealed anthelmintic effects (P<0.05) of crude aqueous (CAE) and crude methanolic extracts (CME) of Calotropis procera flowers on live Haemonchus (H.) contortus as evident from their mortality or temporary paralysis. For in vivo studies, Calotropis procera flowers were administered as crude powder (CP), CAE and CME to sheep naturally infected with mixed species of gastrointestinal nematodes. Egg count percent reduction (ECR) was recorded as 88.4 and 77.8% in sheep treated with CAE and CP at 3gkg(-1) body weight on day 7 and 10 post-treatment (PT), respectively. CME was least effective resulting in 20.9% reduction in ECR on day 7 PT. It was found that Calotropis procera flowers possess good anthelmintic activity against nematodes, yet it was lower than that exhibited by levamisole (97.8-100%). It is suggested that further research on large scale be carried out involving a large number of animals, doses higher than those used in the current study, identification of active principles, and standardization of dose and toxicity studies for drug development.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 2008
DOI: 10.1016/J.JEP.2007.10.003
Abstract: This study was aimed to evaluate the efficacy of crude aqueous-methanol and aqueous extracts of neem (Azadirachta indica) seed kernel against sarcoptic mange of sheep. Crude aqueous-methanol (AME) and aqueous extracts (AE) of neem seed kernel (NSK) were prepared and formulated as 10% and 20% ointments (w/w), using Vaseline as vehicle. Forty-two lambs of Pak Karakul breed, having natural infection of sarcoptic mange were ided into seven experimental groups. Skin scrapings and clinical examination were carried out at scheduled intervals after treatment. Ivermectin (positive control) completely cleared infesting mites from animals after 10 days and 20% AME after 16 days. While, clinical mange was completely cured after 16 and 20 days with ivermectin and 20% AME, respectively, under field conditions. Only the higher concentration (20% AME) of NSK extracts completely cured the clinical mange, suggesting a dose-dependent response. Our results consolidate the belief that use of folk remedies can provide an effective and economic way of combating sarcoptic mange in sheep.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 03-2016
DOI: 10.1016/J.MEEGID.2015.12.008
Abstract: This study was designed to genetically characterise the larval stage (coenurus) of Taenia multiceps from ruminants in Greece, utilising DNA regions within the cytochrome c oxidase subunit 1 (partial cox1) and NADH dehydrogenase 1 (pnad1) mitochondrial (mt) genes, respectively. A molecular-phylogenetic approach was used to analyse the pcox1 and pnad1 licons derived from genomic DNA s les from in idual cysts (n=105) from cattle (n=3), goats (n=5) and sheep (n=97). Results revealed five and six distinct electrophoretic profiles for pcox1 and pnad1, respectively, using single-strand conformation polymorphism. Direct sequencing of selected licons representing each of these profiles defined five haplotypes each for pcox1 and pnad1, among all 105 isolates. Phylogenetic analysis of in idual sequence data for each locus, including a range of well-defined reference sequences, inferred that all isolates of T. multiceps cysts from ruminants in Greece clustered with previously published sequences from different continents. The present study provides a foundation for future large-scale studies on the epidemiology of T. multiceps in ruminants as well as dogs in Greece.
Publisher: Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC)
Date: 2016
DOI: 10.1039/C6DT03376H
Abstract: Ferrocenyl and ruthenocenyl analogues of the nematocidal drug monepantel show organometallic-dependent activity against Haemonchus contortus and Trichostrongylus colubriformis .
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 10-2006
DOI: 10.1016/J.PREVETMED.2006.05.006
Abstract: We identified clinical disorders of all 200 city-dwelling cart pulling male camels attending the Veterinary Teaching Hospital, University of Agriculture, Faisalabad, Pakistan during a 7-year period (1993-1999). Data were collected prospectively on a predesigned form and collated. Diagnoses of different diseases/disorders were based on clinical examination supplemented with relevant laboratory tests. A total of 463 entries of 34 different clinical diseases/disorders were recorded. Sarcoptic mange (35% of 200 camels) followed by anhidrosis (23%) and trypanosomosis (19%) were the three most frequently encountered disorders. The body system most often involved was the integument (31%) followed by gastrointestinal (21%), locomotory (12%), thermoregulatory (6%), blood (6%), urogenital (6%), lymphatic (3%), nervous (3%), respiratory (3%) and ocular (3%).
Publisher: EDP Sciences
Date: 29-10-2014
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 02-07-2018
DOI: 10.3390/ANI8070108
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 02-10-2021
DOI: 10.3390/PATHOGENS10101273
Abstract: Ticks have complex life cycles which involve blood-feeding stages found on wild and domestic animals, with humans as accidental hosts. At each blood-feeding stage, ticks can transmit and/or acquire pathogens from their hosts. Therefore, the circulation of tick-borne pathogens (TBPs), especially the zoonotic ones, should be studied in a multi-layered manner, including all components of the chain of infections, following the ‘One Health’ tenets. The implementation of such an approach requires coordination among major stakeholders (such as veterinarians, physicians, acarologists, and researchers) for the identification of exposure and infection risks and application of effective prevention measures. In this review, we summarize our current knowledge on the epidemiology of tick-borne diseases in Central America and the Caribbean and the challenges associated with the implementation of ‘One Health’ surveillance and control programs in the region.
Publisher: EDP Sciences
Date: 29-10-2014
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 2006
DOI: 10.1002/PTR.1800
Abstract: The in vitro and in vivo anthelmintic activity of Nicotiana tabacum L. leaves was studied to rationalize its traditional use. Live Haemonchus contortus were used to assess the in vitro anthelmintic effect of a crude aqueous extract (CAE) and a methanol extract (CME) of N. tabacum. The in vitro inhibitory effect of both the extracts was evident from the paralysis and/or mortality of worms noted at 6 h post-exposure. For the in vivo studies, CAE and CME were administered in increasing doses (1.0-3.0 g/kg) to sheep naturally infected with mixed species of gastrointestinal nematodes. A maximum reduction of 73.6% in eggs per gram (EPG) of faeces was recorded on day 5 post-treatment with CME (3.0 g/kg) while the same dose of CAE showed a 49.4% reduction. Levamisole (7.5 mg/kg), a standard anthelmintic agent, showed a 99.6% reduction in EPG. These data show that the aqueous and methanol extracts of Nicotiana tabacum exhibit dose-dependent anthelmintic activity both in vitro and in vivo, thus justifying its use in the traditional medicine system of Pakistan.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 04-2022
Publisher: EDP Sciences
Date: 04-2015
Publisher: EDP Sciences
Date: 29-10-2014
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 12-2014
DOI: 10.1016/J.MEEGID.2014.09.031
Abstract: This study examined genetic variation within and among species of Cloacina found in the sw wallaby (Wallabia bicolor) collected at different localities along the eastern coast of Australia, and evaluated geographical distance as a potential driver for genetic variation. The first and second internal transcribed spacers (ITS-1 and ITS-2, respectively) of the nuclear ribosomal DNA were used to characterize in iduals of 11 morphospecies of Cloacina that parasitize W. bicolor. The results of the molecular analyses revealed multiple genotypes for the nine morphospecies of Cloacina (i.e. Cloacina annulata, Cloacina edwardsi, Cloacina eos, Cloacina gallardi, Cloacina mawsonae, Cloacina papillata, Cloacina papillatissima, Cloacina pollux, and Cloacina wallabiae) for which multiple in iduals were available for analysis. However, phylogenetic analyses of the sequence data revealed that for each morphospecies, there was no sub ision of in iduals into distinct clades based on geographical region from which they were collected. Additional studies are needed to determine the drivers of genetic variation in cloacinid nematodes, and hence increase our understanding of the ersity of parasitic nematodes in macropodid marsupials.
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 10-05-2021
DOI: 10.3390/MOLECULES26092819
Abstract: Due to widespread multi-drug resistance in parasitic nematodes of livestock animals, there is an urgent need to discover new anthelmintics with distinct mechanisms of action. Extending previous work, here we screened a panel of 245 chemically- erse small molecules for anti-parasitic activity against Haemonchus contortus—an economically important parasitic nematode of livestock. This panel was screened in vitro against exsheathed third-stage larvae (xL3) of H. contortus using an established phenotypic assay, and the potency of select compounds to inhibit larval motility and development assessed in dose-response assays. Of the 245 compounds screened, three—designated MPK18, MPK334 and YAK308—induced non-wildtype larval phenotypes and repeatedly inhibited xL3-motility, with IC50 values of 45.2 µM, 17.1 µM and 52.7 µM, respectively two also inhibited larval development, with IC50 values of 12.3 µM (MPK334) and 6.5 µM (YAK308), and none of the three was toxic to human liver cells (HepG2). These findings suggest that these compounds deserve further evaluation as nematocidal candidates. Future work should focus on structure–activity relationship (SAR) studies of these chemical scaffolds, and assess the in vitro and in vivo efficacies and safety of optimised compounds against adults of H. contortus.
Publisher: EDP Sciences
Date: 04-2015
Publisher: EDP Sciences
Date: 11-2201
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 09-2017
DOI: 10.1016/J.VETPAR.2017.07.005
Abstract: The control of parasitic roundworms (nematodes) is heavily reliant on the use of a limited number of anthelmintic drugs. However, drug resistance is now very widespread and no vaccines are available, such that the discovery of new chemical entities is crucial. Within this context, we screened a library of pure natural products (n=400) against exsheathed third-stage (xL3) larvae of the parasitic nematode Haemonchus contortus using a whole-organism screening method. We identified two plant-derived rotenoids, deguelin and rotenone, with inhibitory activity on xL3 motility. Rotenone was not investigated further, because of its toxicity to some vertebrates. The dose response and cytotoxicity studies showed potent and selective inhibitory activity of deguelin on motility of xL3 larvae of H. contortus. Detailed future work needs to be conducted to explore the mode of action of this compound on H. contortus and related nematodes, and to assess its potential as an anthelmintic candidate.
Publisher: EDP Sciences
Date: 29-10-2014
Publisher: American Chemical Society (ACS)
Date: 21-09-2016
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 06-12-2019
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 12-05-2016
DOI: 10.1007/S00436-016-5096-0
Abstract: Cloacina johnstoni sp. nov. (Nematoda: Strongyloidea) is described from the sacculated forestomach of the wallaroo, Macropus robustus (Marsupialia: Macropodidae) from Australia. It resembles the synhospitalic species Cloacina macropodis but differs from it principally in the shape of the cephalic papillae. The two species are also distinguishable based on differences in the first and second internal transcribed spacers (ITS) of nuclear ribosomal DNA (rDNA). Cloacina johnstoni commonly co-occurs in the same in idual host as C. macropodis but has a more restricted geographical distribution.
Publisher: American Society for Microbiology
Date: 10-2010
DOI: 10.1128/IAI.00511-10
Abstract: Taenia ovis is a cestode parasite infecting primarily sheep as intermediate hosts and dogs as definitive hosts. The first highly effective, recombinant vaccine against a parasitic organism was developed against T. ovis infection in sheep. Three separate host-protective antigens (To16, To18, and To45W) have been cloned from the oncosphere of the parasite. We localize these antigens in the oncosphere by using quantitative immunogold labeling and transmission electron microscopy. The three antigens were uniquely associated with penetration gland cells. The cytoplasm and secretory granules of both penetration gland type 1 and type 2 cells exhibited statistically significant levels of staining for each of the three antigens. The intensity of labeling of the penetration gland type 1 cell was approximately three to five times greater ( P 0.01) compared to the level of staining intensity seen in the penetration gland type 2 cell. In activated oncospheres, secretory blebs were found to contain granules with a structure similar to those observed in the penetration gland cells. The granules within the secretory blebs were shown to stain specifically for the presence of each of the three host-protective antigens. The absence of surface location of the T. ovis antigens suggests that the parasite may not be susceptible to vaccine-induced antibody- and complement-mediated attack until some postoncospheral development has occurred after infection of the intermediate host.
Publisher: EDP Sciences
Date: 04-2015
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 12-2011
DOI: 10.1016/J.MEEGID.2011.08.012
Abstract: Bovine theileriosis is an arthropod-borne disease caused by one or more haemoprotozoan parasites of the genus Theileria. Traditionally, Theileria infection in cattle in Australia was largely asymptomatic and recognized to be associated with Theileria buffeli, now assigned to the Theileria orientalis-group. There have been some recent outbreaks of theileriosis in dairy and beef cattle, mainly in subtropical climatic zone (New South Wales) of Australia. Here, we provide the first published evidence of an outbreak of bovine theileriosis in the south-eastern Australia (state of Victoria) linked to the ikeda and chitose genotypes of T. orientalis. Future investigations should focus sharply on the elucidating the epidemiology and ecology of Theileria in this region to subvert the possible impact on the cattle industry.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 31-05-2017
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 28-06-2018
Publisher: Cambridge University Press (CUP)
Date: 31-07-2023
DOI: 10.1017/S0031182023000690
Abstract: Four methods were compared for the diagnosis of human taeniasis caused by Taenia solium. Fecal s les from persons living in a T. solium endemic region of Madagascar were examined for taeniid eggs by the Kato–Katz method. Subsequently, s les positive ( n = 16) and negative ( n = 200) for T. solium eggs were examined by (i) lification of the fragment of small subunit of the mitochondrial ribosomal RNA ( rrn S) gene using conventional polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and (ii) a nested PCR of a fragment of the T. solium Tso31 gene. Additionally, 12 egg-positive and all egg-negative s les were tested for coproantigen detection. A further 9 egg-positive fecal s les were examined using both PCRs. Of the 12 egg-positive s les tested by PCRs and coproantigen methods, 9 (75%) were positive by rrn S PCR, 3 (25%) using Tso31 -nested PCR and 9 (75%) by coproantigen testing. None of the 200 egg-negative fecal s les was positive in either rrn S or Tso31 -nested PCR. Twenty of the 25 egg-positive s les (80%) were positive in rrn S PCR, and DNA sequencing of PCR licons was obtained from 18 s les, all confirmed to be T. solium . Twelve of the 25 egg-positive s les (48%) were positive in the Tso31 -nested PCR, all of which were also positive by rrn S PCR. It is suggested that species-specific diagnosis of T. solium taeniasis may be achieved by either coprological examination to detect eggs or coproantigen testing, followed by rrn S PCR and DNA sequencing to confirm the tapeworm species in egg-positive or coproantigen-positive s les.
Publisher: University of Veterinary and Pharmaceutical Sciences
Date: 2007
Abstract: This study was carried out to screen goat farms for anthelmintic resistance (AR) against oxfendazole (OXF) and to determine contributory factors for its development. For this purpose, Beetal goat farms (n = 18) were randomly selected, with natural mixed gastrointestinal nematodosis infection. In vivo (faecal egg count reduction test) and in vitro (egg hatch assay) tests were used to ascertain the presence of AR while a scorecard was used to determine the role of possible contributory factors for oxfendazole resistance. For in vivo test, the experimental animals were ided into two groups of 10 animals each one group received OXF treatment, while the other served as control. Pre- and post-treatment coproculture was performed to identify the species and genera of nematodes. Egg hatch assay (EHA) was used to confirm the results of FECRT. Fecal egg count reduction test (FECRT) revealed the development of resistance on six farms and post-treatment larval cultures indicated Haemonchus contortus , Trichostrongylus colubriformis , Cooperia curticei , Teladorsagia circumcincta and Oesophagostomum spp. as dominant species with resistance. Furthermore, EHA confirmed the results of FECRT. Among the presumptive factors for AR, the highest composite score was for rotation of anthelmintics followed by treatment frequency, dose rate and nature of medication. The scorecard for the development of AR, used in this study, may be helpful for the assessment of contributory factors of AR.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 03-09-2021
DOI: 10.1186/S13071-021-04966-1
Abstract: Strongyloides westeri is found in the small intestine of young horses, mainly in foals up to about 16 weeks of age. The main source of infection for foals is through transmammary transmission, and foals can develop acute diarrhoea, weakness, dermatitis and respiratory signs. The epidemiology of S. westeri in Australia is largely unknown. Further, molecular techniques have never been employed for detection of S. westeri in horses. This pilot study aimed to assess the utility of a molecular phylogenetic method for the detection of S. westeri in the faeces of foals. Faecal s les were collected from a foal of less than 2 months of age, and eggs of Strongyloides sp. were detected using the modified McMaster technique. DNA was extracted from purified eggs, and a partial fragment of the small subunit of the nuclear ribosomal DNA (18S) was characterised using polymerase chain reaction, DNA sequencing and phylogenetic methods. Microscopic examination of faeces revealed small ellipsoidal eggs typical of Strongyloides sp. The 18S sequence generated by PCR in this study revealed 98.4% identity with that of a reference sequence of S. westeri available from GenBank. Phylogenetic analyses revealed a polyphyletic clustering of S. westeri sequences. This is the first study reporting the detection of DNA of Strongyloides sp. in faeces of a foal using a molecular phylogenetic approach targeting the variable region of 18S rDNA. It is anticipated that this study will allow future molecular epidemiological studies on S. westeri in horses.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 27-04-2018
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 03-2010
DOI: 10.1016/J.VETPAR.2009.11.005
Abstract: This paper describes the in vivo anthelmintic activity of Azadirachta indica seeds to justify their use in South-Asia by traditional animal healers. Seeds of A. indica were administered as crude powder (CP), crude aqueous (CAE) and crude methanolic extracts (CME) at the doses of 1 and 3g/kg of body weight to sheep naturally infected with mixed species of gastrointestinal nematodes. The study design also included untreated as well as treated controls. Faecal egg count reduction and larval counts from coprocultures were performed pre- and post-treatments to assess the anthelmintic activity. Crude powder and CME did not show significant activity (P>0.05) at the lower dose used but were found effective at 3g/kg and the maximum anthelmintic effect was observed at the 15 days post-treatment with both crude powder and CME (P<0.01) with a maximum reduction of 29.3% and 40.2%, respectively in eggs per gram of faeces. Haemonchus contortus and Trichostrongylus species were found susceptible (P<0.01) to higher doses of CP and CME of A. indica. However, CAE did not exhibit any considerable reduction in EPG as well as larval counts. Levamisole (7.5mg/kg), a standard anthelmintic agent, exhibited 99.2% reduction in EPG (P<0.001). Though of low efficacy compared with levamisole, the use of A. indica seeds against gastrointestinal nematodes may be justified in some situations, depending on the nature and intensity of the helminth infections.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 08-02-2019
DOI: 10.1007/S00436-019-06237-6
Abstract: In this study, 100 gastrointestinal tracts of Australian alpacas were examined to assess the worm burden and to identify the species of nematode present. Faecal s les were collected from 97 alpacas and processed for faecal egg counts (FECs). For identification of the species, both molecular (multiplexed-tandem polymerase chain reaction [MT-PCR]) and morphological techniques were used. Total worm counts (TWCs) revealed a mean burden of 1300 worms, with the highest burden of 29,000 worms. The average egg count was 501 eggs per gram of faeces (EPG), with the highest count of 3500 EPG. Nineteen different species of gastrointestinal nematodes (GINs) were identified, and Graphinema auchenia, Camelostrongylus mentulatus and Trichuris tenuis were recovered from Australian alpacas for the first time. Haemonchus contortus was the most prevalent nematode (81%) followed by C. mentulatus (60%). The majority of the nematodes found are shared with sheep, goats and cattle. Findings of this study provide useful insights into the spectrum of GINs and their burden in Australian alpacas.
Publisher: Cambridge University Press (CUP)
Date: 21-07-2010
DOI: 10.1017/S0031182010001034
Abstract: Immunohistochemistry and immunogold labelling techniques were used to localize the EG95 vaccine antigen in Echinococcus granulosus oncospheres. In non-activated oncospheres, the cytoplasm of 2 pairs of bilateral cells exhibited specific positive labelling for the presence of EG95. No surface localization was seen in non-activated or recently activated oncospheres. Besides the staining of 2 pairs of bilateral cells, there was also a generalized distribution of specific staining for EG95 throughout the parenchyma of activated oncospheres. Immunogold labelling of non-activated oncosphere revealed specific reactivity for EG95 involving 2 pairs of bilateral cells and the ultrastructural characteristics of these cells were consistent with them being penetration gland cells. No other oncospheral structures stained specifically for the presence of EG95. The absence of surface location of EG95 in oncospheres suggests that the parasite may not be susceptible to vaccine-induced antibody and complement mediated attack until some post-oncospheral development has occurred. Further studies would be required to determine when the EG95 antigen associates with the parasite's surface, thus making them susceptible to immune attack.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 02-2012
DOI: 10.1016/J.MCP.2011.08.003
Abstract: Pneumothorax was diagnosed in a dog presenting with progressive exercise intolerance and tachypnoea. Needle thoracocentesis failed to resolve the pneumothorax, and an exploratomy thoracotomy was performed. Upon inspection of the thoracic cavity, numerous white nodules (2 to 4mm) were present throughout the mediastinum, parietal pleura and the lung lobes. The owners of the dog elected intra-operative euthanasia, and a post mortem examination was performed. At necropsy, structures consistent with the plerocercoid (larval) stage of a tapeworm were identified in association with inflammation of the pleural cavity. Molecular methods were used to identify the parasite as Spirometra erinacei. Molecular diagnosis, along with the clinical presentation and pathological findings, allowed the diagnosis of proliferative sparganosis.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 20-12-2020
DOI: 10.1002/ECE3.5758
Publisher: EDP Sciences
Date: 29-10-2014
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 11-2006
DOI: 10.1016/J.LFS.2006.08.010
Abstract: Helminthosis is one of the major constraints in the successful wool and mutton industry throughout the world. Anthelmintic Resistance (AR) is said to have been established when previously effective drug ceases to kill exposed parasitic population at the therapeutically recommended dosages. Anthelmintic resistance is almost cosmopolitan in distribution and it has been reported in almost all species of domestic animals and even in some parasites of human beings. Some of the most important species of parasites of small ruminants in which AR has been reported include: Haemonchus spp., Trichostrongylus spp. Teladorsagia spp., Cooperia spp. Nematodirus spp., and Oesophagostomum spp. All the major groups of anthelmintics have been reported for development of variable degrees of resistance in different species of gastrointestinal nematodes. This paper describes the global scenario of prevalence and methods used for detection of AR in small ruminants. Different mechanisms and contributory factors for the development of AR are discussed. Various options and alternate strategies for the control and/or delay in the onset of AR are suggested in the light of available information.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 16-06-2016
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 09-12-2021
DOI: 10.3390/MD19120698
Abstract: High-throughput screening of the NatureBank marine extract library (n = 7616) using a phenotypic assay for the parasitic nematode Haemonchus contortus identified an active extract derived from the Australian marine sponge Citronia sp. Bioassay-guided fractionation of the CH2Cl2/MeOH extract from Citronia sp. resulted in the purification of two known hexachlorinated peptides, dysidenin (1) and dysideathiazole (2). Compound 1 inhibited the growth/development of H. contortus larvae and induced multiple phenotypic changes, including a lethal evisceration (Evi) phenotype and/or somatic cell and tissue destruction. This is the first report of anthelmintic activity for these rare and unique polychlorinated peptides.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 21-04-2020
Publisher: American Society for Microbiology
Date: 2015
DOI: 10.1128/JCM.02536-14
Abstract: Oriental theileriosis is an emerging, tick-borne disease of bovines in the Asia-Pacific region and is caused by one or more genotypes of the Theileria orientalis complex. This study aimed to establish and validate a multiplexed tandem PCR (MT-PCR) assay using three distinct markers (major piroplasm surface protein, 23-kDa piroplasm membrane protein, and the first internal transcribed spacer of nuclear DNA), for the simultaneous detection and semiquantification of four genotypes (Buffeli, Chitose, Ikeda, and type 5) of the T. orientalis complex. Analytical specificity, analytical sensitivity, and repeatability of the established MT-PCR assay were assessed in a series of experiments. Subsequently, the assay was evaluated using 200 genomic DNA s les collected from cattle from farms on which oriental theileriosis outbreaks had occurred, and 110 s les from a region where no outbreaks had been reported. The results showed the MT-PCR assay specifically and reproducibly detected the expected genotypes (i.e., genotypes Buffeli, Chitose, Ikeda, and type 5) of the T. orientalis complex, reliably differentiated them, and was able to detect as little as 1 fg of genomic DNA from each genotype. The diagnostic specificity and sensitivity of the MT-PCR were estimated at 94.0% and 98.8%, respectively. The MT-PCR assay established here is a practical and effective diagnostic tool for the four main genotypes of T. orientalis complex in Australia and should assist studies of the epidemiology and pathophysiology of oriental theileriosis in the Asia-Pacific region.
Publisher: Cambridge University Press (CUP)
Date: 12-07-2017
DOI: 10.1017/S0031182017001238
Abstract: Sequences of the first and second internal transcribed spacers (ITS1 + ITS2) of nuclear ribosomal DNA were employed to determine whether the congeneric assemblages of species of the strongyloid nematode genus Cloacina , found in the forestomachs of in idual species of kangaroos and wallabies (Marsupialia: Macropodidae), considered to represent species flocks, were monophyletic. Nematode assemblages examined in the black-striped wallaby, Macropus ( Notamacropus ) dorsalis , the wallaroos, Macropus ( Osphranter ) antilopinus / robustus , rock wallabies, Petrogale spp., the quokka, Setonix brachyurus, and the sw wallaby, Wallabia bicolor, were not monophyletic and appeared to have arisen by host colonization. However, a number of instances of within-host speciation were detected, suggesting that a variety of methods of speciation have contributed to the evolution of the complex assemblages of species present in this genus.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 04-2023
Publisher: Magnolia Press
Date: 10-09-2020
DOI: 10.11646/ZOOTAXA.4851.2.3
Abstract: A phylogenetic analysis of the genera of the strongyloid sub-family Cloacininae from macropodoid marsupials in Australasia was undertaken based on morphological characteristics and analysis of concatenated sequences (ITS+) of the first (ITS-1) and second (ITS-2) internal transcribed spacers of nuclear ribosomal DNA. Neither approach provided a robust phylogeny, but similarities between the two methods in terms of generic groupings suggested that substantial revision is needed of the current phenetic classification, with some of the key morphological characteristics currently used to define genera and tribes proving to be homoplasious.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 04-07-2018
Publisher: EDP Sciences
Date: 06-2014
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 03-2020
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 2019
DOI: 10.1016/J.VETPAR.2018.12.006
Abstract: This study aimed to assess current worm control practices used by Australian alpaca farmers with an online questionnaire survey. The questionnaire contained questions about farm demography and general husbandry practices, farmers' knowledge about gastrointestinal nematodes (GINs) and their importance, the use of worm control strategies and anthelmintics, and grazing management. A link for the questionnaire survey was sent to all (n = 954) registered members of the Australian Alpaca Association in July 2015. The response rate for the questionnaire was 25% (239/954). The majority of respondents were from small (≤ 50 alpacas 64%, 153/239) followed by medium (50-100 alpacas 24%, 57/239) and large (>100 alpacas 12%, 29/239) farms. Findings revealed that the majority of respondents kept Huacaya alpacas to produce high-quality fibre and alpacas were usually kept with other domestic ruminants (e.g. cattle and sheep). Although half of alpaca farmers (114/220) perceived that GINs were an important health problem of alpacas, with Haemonchus spp. being the most common nematode, the majority of them (174/220) used anthelmintics for nematode control. Macrocyclic lactones, a commercial combination of four anthelmintics (abamectin, albendazole, closantel and levamisole) and monepantel were the three most commonly used dewormers by Australian alpaca farmers. Although a significant proportion (166/213) of respondents used a quarantine drench for alpacas, very few respondents were aware of strategic deworming and the issue of anthelmintic resistance. Alpaca farmers mostly used anthelmintics at the dose rate recommended for sheep (47%, 79/167) and cattle (9%, 15/167), though some used 1.5 (31%, 51/167) and 2 (13%, 22/167) times the dose rate recommended for sheep. The majority of small herds used anthelmintics at the dose rate recommended for sheep and cattle while medium and large herds used anthelmintics at 1.5 to 2 times the dose rate recommended for sheep. This study provides invaluable insights into the demography of alpaca farms in Australia, husbandry practices used by alpaca farmers and their knowledge about worms and their control, thereby paving the way for developing guidelines for the control of GINs of alpacas.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 08-2004
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 03-2015
DOI: 10.1016/J.TTBDIS.2014.10.006
Abstract: Oriental theileriosis is a tick-borne, protozoan disease of cattle caused by one or more genotypes of Theileria orientalis complex. In this study, we assessed sequence variability in a region of the 23kDa piroplasm membrane protein (p23) gene within and among three T. orientalis genotypes (designated buffeli, chitose and ikeda) in south-eastern Australia. Genomic DNA (n=100) was extracted from blood of infected cattle from various locations endemic for oriental theileriosis and tested by polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-coupled mutation scanning (single-strand conformation polymorphism (SSCP)) and targeted sequencing analysis. Eight distinct sequences represented all DNA s les, and three genotypes were found: buffeli (n=3), chitose (3) and ikeda (2). Nucleotide pairwise comparisons among these eight sequences revealed considerably higher variability among the genotypes (6.6-11.7%) than within them (0-1.9%), indicating that the p23 gene region allows the accurate identification of T. orientalis genotypes. In the future, we will combine this gene with other molecular markers to study the genetic structure of T. orientalis populations in Australasia, which will pave the way to establish a highly sensitive and specific PCR-based assay for genotypic diagnosis of infection and for assessing levels of parasitaemia in cattle.
Publisher: Cambridge University Press (CUP)
Date: 12-12-2016
DOI: 10.1017/S0031182016002328
Abstract: This study reports an outbreak of oriental theileriosis in dairy cattle imported to Vietnam from Australia. Following clinical and pathological diagnoses, a total of 112 cattle blood s les were ided into three groups and tested using multiplexed tandem PCR. Group 1 were from aborted heifers in Vietnam group 2 were from cattle before shipment from group 1 cattle and group 3 were from the same batch of cattle but transported to Taiwan. Theileria orientalis DNA was detected in 72·3% cattle. The prevalences of T. orientalis in groups 1, 2 and 3 were 77·6, 86·9 and 57·5%, respectively, and the difference in prevalence was significant between groups 1 and 3 ( P 0·0001). The infection intensities of genotypes chitose and ikeda of T. orientalis were higher in groups 1 (57 721 and 33 709, respectively) and 3 (5897 and 61 766, respectively) than those in group 2 (2071 and 6331, respectively). Phylogenetic analyses of the major piroplasm surface protein sequences revealed that genotypes chitose and ikeda determined herein were closely related to those previously reported from Australia. This first report of an outbreak of oriental theileriosis in imported cattle emphasizes improved measures for the export and import of cattle infected with T. orientalis .
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 02-03-2017
Publisher: EDP Sciences
Date: 29-10-2014
Publisher: EDP Sciences
Date: 29-10-2014
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 12-2015
Publisher: EDP Sciences
Date: 29-10-2014
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 12-2012
Abstract: Genetic variation was investigated in the strongylid nematode Hypodontus macropi from macropodid marsupials using the second internal transcribed spacer of ribosomal DNA. A total of 547 specimens from ten species of hosts, representing all of the known hosts of the parasite, from across the Australian continent was examined. Phylogenetic analyses revealed distinct genetic clades in each of Macropus agilis, M. dorsalis, M. rufogriseus, M. bicolor, Petrogale persephone, Thylogale billardierii and T. stigmatica. A further clade contained all specimens from M. robustus and M. rufus, together with two ex les of host switching by nematodes into M. fuliginosus. The latter clade was sub ided into three subclades, one comprising specimens occurring in M. robustus erubescens, M. rufus and M. fuliginosus, the second in M. r. woodwardi and the third in M. r. robustus suggesting a relationship between the subclades and the subspecies of M. robustus. The extent of the genetic differences and the fact that several of them occur in broad sympatry suggests that H. macropi as currently defined morphologically may represent as many as ten cryptic species. Limited evidence was found for co-speciation between hosts and parasites rather most relationships were better explained by host switching.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 31-03-2015
Publisher: The Royal Society
Date: 02-2020
Abstract: Newborn mammals have an immature immune system that cannot sufficiently protect them against infectious diseases. However, variation in the effectiveness of maternal immunity against different parasites may couple with temporal trends in parasite exposure to influence disparities in the timing of infection risk. Determining the relationship between age and infection risk is critical in identifying the portion of a host population that contributes to parasite dynamics, as well as the parasites that regulate host recruitment. However, there are no data directly identifying timing of first infection among parasites in wildlife. Here, we took advantage of a longitudinal dataset, tracking infection status by viruses, bacteria, protists and gastro-intestinal worms in a herd of African buffalo ( Syncerus caffer ) to ask: how does age of first infection differ among parasite taxa? We found distinct differences in the age of first infection among parasites that aligned with the mode of transmission and parasite taxonomy. Specifically, we found that tick-borne and environmentally transmitted protists were acquired earlier than directly transmitted bacteria and viruses. These results emphasize the importance of understanding infection risk in juveniles, especially in host species where juveniles are purported to sustain parasite persistence and/or where mortality rates of juveniles influence population dynamics.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 08-2018
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 22-08-2013
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 03-2007
DOI: 10.1016/J.VETPAR.2006.09.035
Abstract: Anthelmintic activity of condensed tannins (CT) was evaluated both in vitro and in vivo. In vitro tests included egg hatch test and paralysis/mortality assay on adult Haemonchus contortus. In vivo anthelmintic effect was determined by faecal egg count reduction test in lambs. To this end, 18 lambs were ided into three groups (low tannin, high tannin and control). The lambs of low and high tannin groups were fed diets containing 2 and 3% CT while the control group was fed on diets without CT. In vitro trials showed a dose-dependent inhibition of nematode egg hatching whereas, there was no effect of CT on adult H. contortus. In vivo trials indicated reduction in faecal egg counts in lambs fed diets containing CT. Feed intake and nutrient digestibility of CT-fed sheep was lower and nitrogen balance was higher as compared to control. Maximum weight gain was observed in animals fed diets containing 3% CT. The direct anthelmintic effect of CT, therefore, was evidenced by inhibited egg hatching whereas, faecal egg counts reduction in sheep was through improved nutrient utilization.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 04-2010
DOI: 10.1016/J.RVSC.2009.08.004
Abstract: This paper presents the first report of multiple anthelmintic resistance in the gastrointestinal nematodes of goats and its possible contributory factors in an irrigated area (Pakistan). A total of 18 privately owned Beetal goat flocks were selected in order to determine the anthelmintic resistance against commonly used anthelmintics. Forty to 48 animals from each flock were selected according to their weight and egg count. The three anthelmintics viz., oxfendazole, levamisole and ivermectin, were given to three groups at manufacturer's recommended dose while one group was kept as untreated control. Anthelmintic resistance was determined through faecal egg count reduction and egg hatch tests while assessment of the contributory factors of anthelmintic resistance was measured through the rural participatory approach. Faecal egg count reduction test revealed high prevalence of anthelmintic resistance (83.3%) and it was either single (levamisole) or multiple (oxfendazole and levamisole). Egg hatch test confirmed the resistance against oxfendazole as detected with faecal egg count reduction test. None of the goat flocks was resistant to ivermectin. Copro-cultures revealed that Haemonchus contortus, Trichostrongylus colubriformis and Teladorsagia circumcincta were the most common species exhibiting resistance to levamisole and oxfendazole. Step-wise logistic regression of the data on worm control practices revealed significant role of under-dosing, low-protein diets, healthcare supervision by the traditional healers and mass treatments.
Publisher: Cambridge University Press (CUP)
Date: 05-06-2018
DOI: 10.1017/S0031182018000239
Abstract: Sarcocystis spp. are intracellular coccidian parasites which infect domestic and wild animals and birds, resulting in considerable economic losses in production animals, and public health concerns worldwide. Sarcocystis spp. have an indirect life cycle where wild and/or domestic canine species primarily serve as definitive hosts and several domestic and wild animals (such as camels) act as intermediate hosts. In Northern Africa, the Middle East, Central Asia and China, camel meat is preferred due to cultural and religious traditions as well as its lower cholesterol/fat content than other red meat. However, camel meat quality could be downgraded by the presence of sarcocysts. To date, two Sarcocystis spp. have been reported from camels, including Sarcocystis ippeni (forms microscopic sarcocysts) and Sarcocystis cameli (forms both macroscopic and microscopic sarcocysts). Sarcocystosis is usually asymptomatic, though significant pathogenic effects have also been reported in camels. Despite the high occurrence of sarcocystosis in camels, little is known about various aspects of the disease in these animals. This paper provides a comprehensive review of the existing knowledge on the taxonomy, pathogenesis, epidemiology and diagnosis of Sarcocystis spp. infecting camels and it also highlights areas for further research that could enhance our understanding about sarcocystosis in camels.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 05-10-2016
Abstract: The discovery of novel drugs against animal parasites is in high demand due to drug-resistance problems encountered around the world. Herein, the synthesis and characterization of 27 organic and organometallic derivatives of the recently launched nematocidal drug monepantel (Zolvix
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 28-05-2018
DOI: 10.1007/S11230-018-9798-9
Abstract: Three new species of the parasitic nematode genus Cloacina von Linstow, 1898 (Strongyloidea: Cloacininae) are described from the stomachs of wallaroos, Osphranter spp. (Marsupialia: Macropodidae), from northern Australia. Cloacina spearei n. sp. is described from O. robustus woodwardi (Thomas) and O. antilopinus (Gould) and is distinguished from congeners by the shape of the cephalic papillae, the shallow buccal capsule, the presence of an oesophageal denticle and the convoluted but non-recurrent vagina in the female. Cloacina longibursata n. sp. also from O. robustus woodwardi and O. antilopinus is distinguished from congeners by the elongate dorsal lobe of the bursa, with the origin of the lateral branchlets posterior to the principal bifurcation, in the features of the spicule tip, the lack of bosses lining the oesophagus and the absence of an oesophageal denticle. Cloacina crassicaudata n. sp., from the same two host species was formerly identified as C. cornuta (Davey & Wood, 1938). Differences in the cephalic cuticle (inflation lacking in the new species), the shape of the cephalic papillae, the dorsal oesophageal tooth and the spicule tips, as well as differences in the sequences of the internal transcribed spacers of the nuclear ribosomal DNA, indicate that this is an independent species. The geographical distribution of this species is disjunct with populations in both the Northern Territory and Queensland. Possible reasons for the disjunct distribution are discussed.
Publisher: EDP Sciences
Date: 03-2023
DOI: 10.1051/0004-6361/202245042
Abstract: The various Euclid imaging surveys will become a reference for studies of galaxy morphology by delivering imaging over an unprecedented area of 15 000 square degrees with high spatial resolution. In order to understand the capabilities of measuring morphologies from Euclid -detected galaxies and to help implement measurements in the pipeline of the Organisational Unit MER of the Euclid Science Ground Segment, we have conducted the Euclid Morphology Challenge, which we present in two papers. While the companion paper focusses on the analysis of photometry, this paper assesses the accuracy of the parametric galaxy morphology measurements in imaging predicted from within the Euclid Wide Survey. We evaluate the performance of five state-of-the-art surface-brightness-fitting codes, DeepLeGATo , Galapagos-2 , Morfometryka , ProFit and SourceXtractor++ , on a s le of about 1.5 million simulated galaxies (350 000 above 5 σ ) resembling reduced observations with the Euclid VIS and NIR instruments. The simulations include analytic Sérsic profiles with one and two components, as well as more realistic galaxies generated with neural networks. We find that, despite some code-specific differences, all methods tend to achieve reliable structural measurements ( 10% scatter on ideal Sérsic simulations) down to an apparent magnitude of about I E = 23 in one component and I E = 21 in two components, which correspond to a signal-to-noise ratio of approximately 1 and 5, respectively. We also show that when tested on non-analytic profiles, the results are typically degraded by a factor of 3, driven by systematics. We conclude that the official Euclid Data Releases will deliver robust structural parameters for at least 400 million galaxies in the Euclid Wide Survey by the end of the mission. We find that a key factor for explaining the different behaviour of the codes at the faint end is the set of adopted priors for the various structural parameters.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 29-04-2019
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 02-2013
DOI: 10.1016/J.IJFOODMICRO.2012.12.012
Abstract: This study characterized anisakid nematodes in estuarine and near-shore species of fish in southern Western Australia. A total of 108 fish representing 13 species were examined for anisakid larvae. For the molecular characterization of anisakid larvae (n=218), we used PCR-coupled mutation scanning-sequencing-phylogenetic analyses of sequence variation in the internal transcribed spacers of nuclear ribosomal DNA. With the exception of Sillaginoides punctatus and Sillago schomburgkii, all the fish species examined (Aldrichetta forsteri, Arripis georgianus, Hyporh hus regularis, Mugil cephalus, Platycephalus speculator, Pomatomus saltatrix, Pseudocaranx dentex, Pseudocaranx wrighti, Thysanophrys cirronatus, Trachurus novaezeelandiae and Upeneichthys lineatus) harboured at least one species of anisakid. Mutation scanning analysis identified 11 different genotypes of anisakid larvae. Phylogenetic analyses of the sequence data, employing reference sequence data for a wide range of anisakids (31 species) from public databases, revealed the presence of Anisakis pegreffii (n=3), Contracaecum multipapillatum (49), Contracaecum ogmorhini (1), Hysterothylacium larval type IV (82), Hysterothylacium larval type Vb (14), Hysterothylacium larval type VIII (3), Hysterothylacium larval type X (65), and Terranova type I (1) in the fish examined. The present study provides valuable information on the ersity of anisakids in southern Western Australia and also a basis for future investigations to assess the public health significance of these parasites.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 2014
DOI: 10.1016/J.MEEGID.2013.10.025
Abstract: Haemonchus placei is an abomasal parasite of cattle, primarily in tropical and subtropical areas of the world. In Australia, this nematode can be extremely pathogenic in summer rainfall areas, particularly in the hot, sub-tropical Kimberley region, in the far north of the state of Western Australia (WA). Although cattle are occasionally transferred to southern parts of WA, it was believed that H. placei did not occur in southern regions of WA, as it is less cold-adapted than Haemonchus contortus, and the free-living stages would not develop during the cold winter and dry summer periods. Here, we show that, although H. contortus is found in cattle in the temperate southern region of WA, it appears that H. placei also occurs in southern WA. While investigating the prevalence of anthelmintic resistance in nematodes of cattle in WA, the existence of H. placei was suspected on a range of participating farms, following the morphological examination of third-stage larvae cultured from faeces, and of adult worms recovered from sheep experimentally infected with these larvae. Genomic DNAs from in idual worms as well as eggs from pooled faecal s les from seven farms in southern WA were subjected to PCR-based mutation scanning and sequence analyses of the second internal transcribed spacer (ITS-2) of nuclear ribosomal DNA. The results showed that both H. contortus and H. placei were harboured by cattle. This first record of H. placei in cattle in southern WA raises questions as to the prevalence and distribution of this parasite in other temperate and cool climatic regions of Australia. Although clinical disease due to H. placei has not yet been seen in southern WA, global, climatic trends might suggest an increased importance of this parasite in the longer term.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 09-2006
DOI: 10.1016/J.FITOTE.2006.05.010
Abstract: This paper describes in vitro and in vivo anthelmintic activities of Swertia chirata. In vitro studies revealed that at 25 mg/ml (P>/=0.05) the crude aqueous (CAE) and methanolic extracts (CME) of S. chirata whole plant showed an anthelmintic effect on live Haemonchus contortus. Moreover, in the in vivo study, the whole plant of S. chirata administered as crude powder (CP), CAE and CME at the dose of 3 g/kg to sheep naturally infected with mixed species of gastrointestinal nematodes, showed a significant reduction in egg per gram of faeces.
Publisher: EDP Sciences
Date: 03-2023
DOI: 10.1051/0004-6361/202245041
Abstract: The European Space Agency's Euclid mission will provide high-quality imaging for about 1.5 billion galaxies. A software pipeline to automatically process and analyse such a huge amount of data in real time is being developed by the Science Ground Segment of the Euclid Consortium this pipeline will include a model-fitting algorithm, which will provide photometric and morphological estimates of paramount importance for the core science goals of the mission and for legacy science. The Euclid Morphology Challenge is a comparative investigation of the performance of five model-fitting software packages on simulated Euclid data, aimed at providing the baseline to identify the best-suited algorithm to be implemented in the pipeline. In this paper we describe the simulated dataset, and we discuss the photometry results. A companion paper is focussed on the structural and morphological estimates. We created mock Euclid images simulating five fields of view of 0.48 deg 2 each in the I E band of the VIS instrument, containing a total of about one and a half million galaxies (of which 350 000 have a nominal signal-to-noise ratio above 5), each with three realisations of galaxy profiles (single and double Sérsic, and 'realistic' profiles obtained with a neural network) for one of the fields in the double Sérsic realisation, we also simulated images for the three near-infrared Y E , J E , and H E bands of the NISP-P instrument, and five Rubin/LSST optical complementary bands ( u , g, r, i, and z ), which together form a typical dataset for an Euclid observation. The images were simulated at the expected Euclid Wide Survey depths. To analyse the results, we created diagnostic plots and defined metrics to take into account the completeness of the provided catalogues, as well as the median biases, dispersions, and outlier fractions of their measured flux distributions. Five model-fitting software packages ( DeepLeGATo , Galapagos-2 , Morfometryka , ProFit , and SourceXtractor++ ) were compared, all typically providing good results. Of the differences among them, some were at least partly due to the distinct strategies adopted to perform the measurements. In the best-case scenario, the median bias of the measured fluxes in the analytical profile realisations is below 1% at a signal-to-noise ratio above 5 in I E , and above 10 in all the other bands the dispersion of the distribution is typically comparable to the theoretically expected one, with a small fraction of catastrophic outliers. However, we can expect that real observations will prove to be more demanding, since the results were found to be less accurate for the most realistic realisation. We conclude that existing model-fitting software can provide accurate photometric measurements on Euclid datasets. The results of the challenge are fully available and reproducible through an online plotting tool.
Start Date: 05-2017
End Date: 05-2020
Amount: $545,000.00
Funder: Australian Research Council
View Funded ActivityStart Date: 11-2020
End Date: 11-2023
Amount: $751,260.00
Funder: Australian Research Council
View Funded ActivityStart Date: 2014
End Date: 12-2017
Amount: $580,000.00
Funder: Australian Research Council
View Funded Activity