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18 pages, 4593 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Diversity of Cytauxzoon spp. (Piroplasmida: Theileriidae) in Wild Felids from Brazil and Argentina

by Ana Cláudia Calchi, Joares A. May-Júnior, Vinícius Baggio-Souza, Laura Berger, Renata Fagundes-Moreira, Rafaela Mallmann-Bohn, Laíza de Queiroz Viana Braga, Murillo Daparé Kirnew, Matheus Folgearini Silveira, Roberto Andres Navarrete Ampuero, Charlotte O. Moore, Ricardo Bassini-Silva, Heitor Miraglia Herrera, Edward Bealmear Breitschwerdt, Ricardo G. Maggi, Eduardo Eizirik, Rosangela Zacarias Machado, Fabiana Lopes Rocha, João Fabio Soares and Marcos Rogério André

Pathogens 2025, 14(2), 148; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens14020148 - 4 Feb 2025

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Abstract

Domestic and wild felids are frequently parasitized by apicomplexan protozoa in the genus Cytauxzoon. Expanding species diversity has recently been described within this genus, with potential implications for epidemiology and pathogenesis. In light of these findings, this study assessed the genetic diversity [...] Read more.

Domestic and wild felids are frequently parasitized by apicomplexan protozoa in the genus Cytauxzoon. Expanding species diversity has recently been described within this genus, with potential implications for epidemiology and pathogenesis. In light of these findings, this study assessed the genetic diversity of Cytauxzoon spp. in wild felids (n = 66) from different eco-regions of Brazil and Argentina. Of the 66 blood samples analyzed, 53 (80.3%) were 18S rRNA gene PCR-positive for Cytauxzoon spp., including 43 jaguars (Panthera onca) and 10 ocelots (Leopardus pardalis). Panthera onca specimens (100%, 43/43) were most frequently infected, followed by Leopardus pardalis (76.9%; 10/13). Cytauxzoon spp. were not detected in Leopardus braccatus (n = 1) or Puma concolor (n = 9). Phylogenetic analyses of fragments of the 18S rRNA, cytB, and cox-1 gene sequences from jaguars were closely related to Cytauxzoon felis. In contrast, sequences from ocelots were more closely associated with Cytauxzoon brasiliensis. Distance and haplotype analysis further confirmed the circulation of at least two distinct genovariants of C. felis among jaguars, as evidenced by their close positioning and low genetic divergence (0–0.14% for 18S rRNA, 0.37–0.56% for cytB, and 0.08–0.74% for cox-1). Additionally, sequence data from ocelots suggested that multiple genovariants of C. brasiliensis are circulating among these cats in different Brazilian eco-regions. Our study provides evidence of two distinct Cytauxzoon organisms parasitizing free-ranging and captive jaguars and ocelots, respectively, in Brazil and Argentina. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Exploring the Biodiversity of Parasites in Humans, Wild and Domestic Animals)

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12 pages, 949 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Seroprevalence of Borrelia, Anaplasma, Bartonella, Toxoplasma, Mycoplasma, Yersinia, and Chlamydia in Human Population from Eastern Poland

by Angelina Wójcik-Fatla, Anna Sawczyn-Domańska, Anna Kloc, Joanna Krzowska-Firych and Jacek Sroka

Pathogens 2025, 14(1), 96; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens14010096 - 18 Jan 2025

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Abstract

The epidemiological situation related to infectious diseases is influenced by many factors. To monitor actual trends in selected zoonoses, a total of 473 serum samples from farmers, forestry workers, and veterinarians were collected for serological examination. Anti-Borrelia burgdorferi sensu lato (s.l.) antibodies [...] Read more.

The epidemiological situation related to infectious diseases is influenced by many factors. To monitor actual trends in selected zoonoses, a total of 473 serum samples from farmers, forestry workers, and veterinarians were collected for serological examination. Anti-Borrelia burgdorferi sensu lato (s.l.) antibodies were tested with ELISA and Western blot (WB) tests; the detection of anti-Toxoplasma gondii antibodies was performed using an enzyme linked fluorescence assay (ELFA). Antibodies to bartonellosis, anaplasmosis, and chlamydiosis were determined by indirect immunofluorescent test (IFA), whereas antibodies to yersiniosis and mycoplasmosis were confirmed in the ELISA test. Positive or borderline results of antibodies against B. burgdorferi s.l. in the ELISA test were detected in 33.8% of the study population. The borderline or positive ELISA test results for at least one antibody class were confirmed by WB in 58.7% of cases. The IgG antibodies against Anaplasma phagocytophilum, Toxoplasma gondii, and Mycoplasma pneumoniae were detected in 9.6%, 51.7%, and 63.6% of samples, respectively. Antibodies against Yersinia spp., Bartonella henselae, and Chlamydia pneumoniae were found to vary between 43 and 47%. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Exploring the Biodiversity of Parasites in Humans, Wild and Domestic Animals)

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13 pages, 2159 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Parasites Diversity, Abundance, Prevalence, and Richness Infecting Didelphis aurita (Didelphimorphia: Didelphidae) in the Atlantic Rainforest, Brazil

by Carolina Romeiro Fernandes Chagas, Cauê Monticelli, Caio Filipe da Motta Lima and Patrícia Locosque Ramos

Pathogens 2024, 13(9), 806; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens13090806 - 18 Sep 2024

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Abstract

Parasites are key players in ecosystems, influencing population sizes and food webs, yet the impact of environmental factors on their diversity is not well understood. The Atlantic rainforest in Brazil, particularly the Parque Estadual das Fontes do Ipiranga (PEFI), exemplifies a biodiversity hotspot [...] Read more.

Parasites are key players in ecosystems, influencing population sizes and food webs, yet the impact of environmental factors on their diversity is not well understood. The Atlantic rainforest in Brazil, particularly the Parque Estadual das Fontes do Ipiranga (PEFI), exemplifies a biodiversity hotspot facing significant deforestation, housing diverse animal species such as the synanthropic Brazilian common opossum (Didelphis aurita), which serves as a reservoir for multiple zoonotic pathogens. In this study, we investigated parasite diversity, abundance, prevalence, and richness in free-living D. aurita in the PEFI, São Paulo, Brazil. From January 2015 to January 2017, 101 fecal samples of D. aurita were collected in two areas of PEFI, at the Instituto de Pesquisas Ambientais (IPA) and the Parque de Ciência e Tecnologia (Cientec), and analyzed using three different parasitological methods. In total, 99% of the samples were positive for at least one parasite. The most prevalent parasite belonged to the order Strongylida (82%), followed by Cruzia sp. (77%), the latter having a significantly higher prevalence at IPA. In contrast, Acanthocephala showed greater prevalence at Cientec. Co-infections were common, with some individuals harboring up to seven different parasites. Our findings reveal significant parasite diversity in the D. aurita population at PEFI, including both helminths and protozoan trophozoites, some of which are reported for the first time in this host species. Further research is essential for accurate species identification of the observed parasites. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Exploring the Biodiversity of Parasites in Humans, Wild and Domestic Animals)

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16 pages, 6499 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Canine Schistosomiasis in the West Coast: Heterobilharzia americana in Two Natural Intermediate Hosts Found in the Colorado River, California

by Anil Baniya, Connor J. Goldy, Jiranun Ardpairin, Perla Achi, Yu Wei Chang, Rose C. Adrianza, Apichat Vitta and Adler R. Dillman

Pathogens 2024, 13(3), 245; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens13030245 - 13 Mar 2024

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Abstract

The emergence of infectious diseases presents a significant global health, economic, and security risk. Climate change can unexpectedly lead to the spread of pathogens, vectors, or hosts into new areas, contributing to the rise of infectious diseases. Surveillance plays a crucial role in [...] Read more.

The emergence of infectious diseases presents a significant global health, economic, and security risk. Climate change can unexpectedly lead to the spread of pathogens, vectors, or hosts into new areas, contributing to the rise of infectious diseases. Surveillance plays a crucial role in monitoring disease trends and implementing control strategies. In this study, we document the first discovery of Heterobilharzia americana, a parasitic schistosome of mammals and its intermediate hosts Galba cubensis and Galba humilis along the banks of the Colorado River in California. We conducted multiple samplings of snails from various locations in the region with a previous history of canine schistosomiasis. Nucleotide sequencing of the multiple regions of the snails’ and parasites’ DNA revealed the coexistence of G. cubensis and G. humilis, both infected with H. americana. Phylogenetic analyses further validate the presence of H. americana in California, suggesting a wider distribution than previously reported. Our findings have implications for public health, veterinary medicine, and biodiversity conservation, contributing to developing effective control strategies to prevent the spread of this emerging infectious disease. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Exploring the Biodiversity of Parasites in Humans, Wild and Domestic Animals)

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16 pages, 2013 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Preparing Collared Peccary (Pecari tajacu Linnaeus, 1758) for Reintroduction into the Wild: A Screening for Parasites and Hemopathogens of a Captive Population

by Júlia Angélica Gonçalves da Silveira, Simone Magela Moreira, Ariane Flávia do Nascimento, Marco Miguel de Oliveira, Hudson Andrade dos Santos, Letícia Gracielle Tôrres de Miranda Estevam, Carine Rodrigues Pereira, Anna Gabriela Guimarães Oliveira, Mirella Lauria D’Elia, Andreina de Carvalho Araujo and Juliana Macedo Magnino Silva

Pathogens 2024, 13(1), 47; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens13010047 - 3 Jan 2024

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2447

Abstract

The reintroduction of captive animals to the wild helps restore endangered species, but it risks pathogen transmission, harming wild populations. Such transmission can impact the genetic diversity and long-term viability of these populations. This study assessed parasite diversity and load in captive Pecari [...] Read more.

The reintroduction of captive animals to the wild helps restore endangered species, but it risks pathogen transmission, harming wild populations. Such transmission can impact the genetic diversity and long-term viability of these populations. This study assessed parasite diversity and load in captive Pecari tajacu, a species native to the Americas and culturally significant to Brazilian indigenous culture, prior to reintroduction. Samples from 24 peccaries were analyzed for ectoparasites, hemopathogens, and stool parasites with direct and molecular analysis. Findings showed that various parasites were present. Two peccaries (8.3%) were infested by the adult tick Amblyomma sculptum. Six (25.0%) tested positive for Trypanosoma evansi, four (16.7%) for hemobacteria of the family Anaplasmataceae, twelve (50.0%) for hemotropic Mycoplasma, and seven (29.2%) for Leishmania braziliensis. Stool samples indicated multiple parasites, with sixteen (66.7%) peccaries infected by Strongylida order parasites, Spiruridae in three (12.5%), and Ascaris suum in one (4.2%) animal. Cysts of Balantidium sp. were found in twenty (83.3%), Entamoeba polecki in five (20.8%), and Iodamoeba bütschlii in two (8.3%) peccaries. To our current knowledge, this is the first global report of Leishmania braziliensis, Iodamoeba bütschlii, and Entamoeba polecki in P. tajacu, irrespective of the environment, including both captivity and wild conditions. Some of these parasites are common in domestic animals, and others are zoonotic, indicating potential interspecies pathogen transmission. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Exploring the Biodiversity of Parasites in Humans, Wild and Domestic Animals)

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11 pages, 1227 KiB

Open AccessCase Report

Double Trouble on the Lower Leg—Unique Human Coinfection with Echinococcus granulosus and Echinococcus multilocularis Without Liver Involvement

by David Beck, Mirjana Balen Topić, Klaudija Višković, Neven Papić, Rado Žic, Mario Sviben, Tomislav Meštrović, Adrijana Baković Kovačević and Relja Beck

Pathogens 2025, 14(4), 343; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens14040343 - 3 Apr 2025

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Abstract

The tapeworms Echinococcus granulosus and Echinococcus multilocularis cause two different clinical manifestations in humans: cystic echinococcosis (CE) and alveolar echinococcosis (AE), respectively. Both forms of echinococcosis manifest primarily in the liver, while other organs or tissues are less frequently affected. Simultaneous occurrence of [...] Read more.

The tapeworms Echinococcus granulosus and Echinococcus multilocularis cause two different clinical manifestations in humans: cystic echinococcosis (CE) and alveolar echinococcosis (AE), respectively. Both forms of echinococcosis manifest primarily in the liver, while other organs or tissues are less frequently affected. Simultaneous occurrence of CE and AE is extremely rare, and all previously reported patients exhibited affected livers, while simultaneous infection without liver involvement has not yet been described. Herein, we present an exclusively extrahepatic E. granulosus and E. multilocularis coinfection localized between the calf muscles of a patient. Due to progressive painful local swelling, an abscess was suspected, but there was no improvement after the administration of multiple courses of antibiotics. When imaging diagnostics suggested a parasitic origin of the two identified cystic lesions, positive serology for both species indicated a dual infection. Albendazole therapy was started, and extensive surgical excision was performed. Both species were confirmed using PCR and sequencing from intraoperative samples. The current case shows that coinfection without liver involvement can occur, even in patients from low-incidence regions, which should be considered in the differential diagnosis of patients with unusual clinical presentation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Exploring the Biodiversity of Parasites in Humans, Wild and Domestic Animals)

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12 pages, 2083 KiB

Open AccessBrief Report

Use of Tick Cell Lines in Co-Infection Studies with a Preliminary Study of Co-Culture of Borrelia burgdorferi and Anaplasma phagocytophilum

by Violetta Zając, Lesley Bell-Sakyi and Angelina Wójcik-Fatla

Pathogens 2025, 14(1), 78; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens14010078 - 15 Jan 2025

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Abstract

Ixodes ricinus is an important vector of infectious human and livestock diseases in Europe. Co-infections of pathogens in ticks and hosts have been reported. Tick cell lines offer a useful model system for study of co-infections. We present a review of the existing [...] Read more.

Ixodes ricinus is an important vector of infectious human and livestock diseases in Europe. Co-infections of pathogens in ticks and hosts have been reported. Tick cell lines offer a useful model system for study of co-infections. We present a review of the existing literature on co-infections in tick cell lines. Previous studies have demonstrated the usefulness of tick cell lines in studies on co-infection of different pathogens and their interaction with the tick microbiome. We also carried out a preliminary study to investigate the effects of co-culturing Borrelia burgdorferi and Anaplasma phagocytophilum on their growth and interactions with the Ixodes ricinus cell line IRE/CTVM19 over a 13-day period. Replication of both pathogens was quantified by real-time PCR. The presence of A. phagocytophilum appeared to have a slight inhibitory effect on the multiplication of B. burgdorferi, that were added subsequently. In contrast, the prior presence of B. burgdorferi appeared to have a stimulatory effect on A. phagocytophilum after 6 days in culture. We conclude that the IRE/CTVM19 tick cell line is suitable for simultaneous and continuous cultivation of both bacteria and can be applied in future research. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Exploring the Biodiversity of Parasites in Humans, Wild and Domestic Animals)

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17 pages, 1521 KiB

Open AccessSystematic Review

A Systematic Review of Zoonotic Enteric Parasites in Synanthropic Mammalian Species in Florida

by Jeffrey M. Perera, Claire Gurtler and Amber N. Barnes

Pathogens 2024, 13(12), 1065; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens13121065 - 3 Dec 2024

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Abstract

Florida is home to a vast number of wildlife species that come into close contact with residents and domestic animals. As mammals are competent hosts for many zoonotic diseases, it is important to understand what exposure risks are present for both people and [...] Read more.

Florida is home to a vast number of wildlife species that come into close contact with residents and domestic animals. As mammals are competent hosts for many zoonotic diseases, it is important to understand what exposure risks are present for both people and animals. Using Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines, this review analyzed published literature spanning 1963 through 2023 documenting zoonotic enteric parasites in synanthropic wild mammals of Florida, excluding mice and rats. Between an initial search conducted in 2022 and updated search in 2024, 10,563 titles were reviewed. Using predetermined inclusion and exclusion criteria, 26 titles were included in the final analysis examining a range of acanthocephala, cestode, nematode, protozoa, and trematode parasite species. Of the results, most studies found at least one parasite in Florida raccoons (n = 14) with additional studies in opossums (n = 8), armadillos (n = 4), bobcats (n = 4), coyotes (n = 3), squirrels (n = 3), gray foxes (n = 1), red foxes (n = 1), an undeclared fox type (n = 1), and bats (n = 1). No studies were found documenting zoonotic enteric parasites in rabbits or moles. The transmission pathways for each parasite and the zoonotic exposure risks varied significantly. Coordinated One Health prevention and control efforts must be targeted for effectiveness. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Exploring the Biodiversity of Parasites in Humans, Wild and Domestic Animals)

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