Search Results (589)

The cross-species spillover of coronaviruses is considered a serious public health risk. Feline coronavirus (FCoV), canine coronavirus (CCoV), and transmissible gastroenteritis virus (TGEV) are all classified under Alphacoronavirus suis and infect companion animals and livestock. Due to their frequent contact with humans, these viruses pose a potential risk of future cross-species transmission. Molnupiravir, a prodrug of N4-hydroxycytidine, exhibits potent antiviral activity against SARS-CoV-2, a member of the Betacoronavirus genus, and has been approved for the treatment of COVID-19. Molnupiravir was recently shown to be effective against FCoV, suggesting broad-spectrum antiviral activity across coronavirus lineages. Based on these findings, the present study investigated whether molnupiravir is also effective against CCoV and TGEV, which belong to the same Alphacoronavirus suis species as FCoV. We examined the in vitro antiviral effects of molnupiravir using four viral strains: FCoV-1 and -2, CCoV-2, and TGEV. Molnupiravir inhibited plaque formation, viral antigen expression, the production of infectious viral particles, and viral RNA replication in a dose-dependent manner in all strains. IC₅₀ values for CCoV-2 and TGEV, calculated using a feline-derived cell line (fcwf-4), were significantly lower than those for FCoV, suggesting higher sensitivity to molnupiravir. These results demonstrate that molnupiravir exhibited broad antiviral activity against animal coronaviruses classified under Alphacoronavirus suis, providing a foundation for antiviral strategies to mitigate the future risk of cross-species transmission. Full article

Schistosoma mansoni infection is associated with hepatic inflammation and fibrosis, but its systemic metabolic effects remain poorly understood. This study aimed to investigate changes in the serum lipidomic profile associated with S. mansoni infection and parasite load in individuals from an endemic area. This cross-sectional analysis was nested within a longitudinal cohort study conducted in northeastern Brazil. Parasitological diagnosis and quantification were performed using the Kato–Katz technique. A total of 45 individuals were selected and divided into three groups: high parasite load (HL), low parasite load (LL), and uninfected controls (NegE). Serum samples were analyzed using mass-spectrometry-based lipidomics. The most abundant lipid subclasses across all groups were phosphatidylcholines (PC), triacylglycerols (TAG), and phosphatidylethanolamines (PE). However, individuals in the HL group exhibited distinct lipidomic profiles, with increased levels of specific phosphatidylinositols (PI) and reduced levels of certain TAG species compared to the NegE group. These changes may reflect host–parasite interactions and immune–metabolic alterations driven by intense infection. Our findings suggest that S. mansoni infection, particularly at higher parasite burdens, can influence the host’s serum lipid profile and may contribute to metabolic disturbances in endemic populations. Full article

Background: Polyparasitic infections remain widespread in endemic regions, yet its contributing factors and health impact are not well understood. This study aims to estimate the prevalence and associated factors and examines the effect of polyparasitic infection on haemoglobin levels among children. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in Lambaréné, Gabon, among children aged 2–17 years from November 2019 to December 2020. Haemoglobin levels, environmental conditions, and sociodemographic data were collected. Stool, urine, and blood samples were analysed using light microscopy for parasite detection. Factors associated with polyparasitism were explored. Results: Out of 656 participants, 65.4% had at least one infection, with intestinal protozoa species (21.3%), Trichuris trichiura (33%), Ascaris lumbricoides (22%), Schistosoma haematobium (20%), and Plasmodium falciparum (10%) being the most common. Polyparasitic infection was identified in 26% of children, mostly as bi-infections (69.2%), and was negatively associated with haemoglobin levels (β = −0.06). Conclusions: These findings emphasise the burden of polyparasitic infections and adverse health effects in Lambaréné, Gabon. Full article

The 13th International Foamy Virus (FV) Conference was held from 8 to 10 November 2023 at the BioParque/Zoological Garden in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. This was the first conference on spumaretroviruses to be held in the Southern Hemisphere and in the unique environment of the rainforest. New developments and current perspectives in FV research were presented. Highlights of the conference included the structural biology of the envelope protein (Env) and insights into its function and evolution, epidemiologic identification of Amazonian indigenous people with a high prevalence of simian FV (SFV) infections, investigations of virus biology and genomics using synthetic FV DNAs, studies of humoral immune response, and development and applications of SFV vectors. The last day of the meeting was a special tour of the Centro de Primatologia do Rio de Janeiro, located northeast of Rio de Janeiro amidst the protected rainforest, where New World primate hosts of spumaretroviruses are rescued and studied. Our report summarizes the meeting highlights and outcomes for future discussions. Full article

Objectives: Burkholderia cepacia complex (Bcc), a Gram-negative organism, is a well-recognized cause of hospital outbreaks, often linked to a contaminated shared source, such as multidose medications. In this study, we report an outbreak of Bcc infections in a tertiary care hospital, associated with the intrinsic contamination of a prepared solution used in interventional radiology (IR) procedures. Additionally, we provide a detailed explanation of the interventions implemented to control and interrupt the outbreak. Methods: Records from the infection control committee from 1 January 2023 to 31 October 2024 were screened to identify cases with Bcc growth in cultured blood, urine, or respiratory samples. Clinical and laboratory data were collected in March 2025. Bacterial identification was performed using conventional methods and MALDI-TOF (Bruker Daltonics, Bremen, Germany). Controls were matched to cases by ward, date of initial growth, and duration of hospitalization. Demographic and clinical data of these patients were systematically collected and analyzed. Microbiological cultures were obtained from environmental objects of concern and certain medications. Results: A total of 82 Burkholderia species were identified. We enrolled 77 cases and 77 matched controls. The source of contamination was identified in ready-to-use intravenous medications (remifentanil and magnesium preparations) in the IR department. These preparations were compounded in advance by the team and were used repeatedly. Although the outbreak originated from contaminated IV medications used in IR, secondary transmission likely affected 28 non-IR patients via fomites, shared environments, and possible lapses in isolation precautions. The mortality rate among the cases was 16.9%. Infection with Bcc was associated with prolonged intensive care unit stays (p = 0.018) and an extended overall hospitalization duration (p < 0.001); however, it was not associated with increased mortality. The enforcement of contact precautions and comprehensive environmental decontamination successfully reduced the incidence of the Bcc outbreak. No pathogens were detected in cultures obtained after the disinfection. Conclusions: The hospital transmission of Bcc is likely driven by cross-contamination, invasive medical procedures, and the administration of contaminated medications. Implementing stringent infection control measures such as staff retraining, updated policies on medication use, enhanced environmental decontamination, and strict adherence to isolation precautions has proven effective in curbing the spread of virulent and transmissible Bcc. Full article

Amdoparvoviruses, encompassing the well-characterized Aleutian mink disease viruses (AMDV) as well as less investigated viruses infecting both captive and wild animals, are important carnivoran viruses that are significant pathogens in the mink farming industry. We investigated the molecular epidemiology of amdoparvoviruses among Danish wildlife. Spleen samples from 118 animals of seven carnivoran species were screened with a pan-amdoparvovirus PCR, and the identified viruses were molecularly characterized. In one of five European badgers (Meles meles), we identified an AMDV-3 strain whose ancestors were likely of farmed mink origin. This virus was last reported on a mink farm in 2002, demonstrating how farm-derived viruses have established themselves among wildlife. We also discovered and fully characterized a novel virus found in five of 81 (6.2%) foxes (Vulpes vulpes) and one of five badgers (20.0%), which we named fox and badger amdoparvovirus 1 (FBAV-1). FBAV-1 fulfills the criteria for classification as a novel species and phylogenetically is positioned as an intermediate between the North American and Eurasian amdoparvoviral clades. This study provides baseline data and expands our understanding of amdoparvoviral ecology. Further studies including more animals across diverse geographic areas are warranted to clarify amdoparvovirus epidemiology, spread, cross-species transmission, epidemic potential, and evolutionary paths. Full article

Pasteurella multocida (Pm) is a zoonotic pathogen that poses a significant threat to animal health and causes substantial economic losses, further aggravated by rising tetracycline resistance. To restore the efficacy of tetracyclines to Pm, we evaluated the synergistic antibacterial activity of doxycycline combined with metformin, an FDA-approved antidiabetic agent. Among several non-antibiotic adjuvant candidates, metformin exhibited the most potent in vitro synergy with doxycycline, especially against capsular serogroup A strain (PmA). The combination demonstrated minimal cytotoxicity and hemolysis in both mammalian and avian cells and effectively inhibited resistance development under doxycycline pressure. At 50 mg/kg each, the combination of metformin and doxycycline significantly reduced mortality in mice and ducks acutely infected with PmA (from 100% to 60%), decreased pulmonary bacterial burdens, and alleviated tissue inflammation and damage. Mechanistic validation confirmed that metformin enhances membrane permeability in Pm without compromising membrane integrity, dissipates membrane potential, increases intracellular doxycycline accumulation, and downregulates the transcription of the tetracycline efflux gene tet(B). Morphological analyses further revealed pronounced membrane deformation and possible leakage of intracellular contents. These findings highlight metformin as a potent, low-toxicity tetracycline adjuvant with cross-species efficacy, offering a promising therapeutic approach for managing tetracycline-resistant Pm infections. Full article

The rapid evolution of pathogens and the limited genetic diversity of hosts are two major factors contributing to the plant pathogenic phenomenon known as the loss of disease resistance in maize (Zea mays L.). It has emerged as a significant biological stressor threatening the global food supplies and security. Based on previous cross-species homologous gene screening assays conducted in the laboratory, this study identified the maize disease-resistance candidate gene ZmNLR-7 to investigate the maize immune regulation mechanism against Bipolaris maydis. Subcellular localization assays confirmed that the ZmNLR-7 protein is localized in the plasma membrane and nucleus, and phylogenetic analysis revealed that it contains a conserved NB-ARC domain. Analysis of tissue expression patterns revealed that ZmNLR-7 was expressed in all maize tissues, with the highest expression level (5.11 times) exhibited in the leaves, and that its transcription level peaked at 11.92 times 48 h post Bipolaris maydis infection. Upon inoculating the ZmNLR-7 EMS mutants with Bipolaris maydis, the disease index was increased to 33.89 and 43.33, respectively, and the lesion expansion rate was higher than that in the wild type, indicating enhanced susceptibility to southern corn leaf blight. Physiological index measurements revealed a disturbance of ROS metabolism in ZmNLR-7 EMS mutants, with SOD activity decreased by approximately 30% and 55%, and POD activity decreased by 18% and 22%. Moreover, H₂O₂ content decreased, while lipid peroxide MDA accumulation increased. Transcriptomic analysis revealed a significant inhibition of the expression of the key genes NPR1 and ACS6 in the SA/ET signaling pathway and a decrease in the expression of disease-related genes ERF1 and PR1. This study established a new paradigm for the study of NLR protein-mediated plant immune mechanisms and provided target genes for molecular breeding of disease resistance in maize. Overall, these findings provide the first evidence that ZmNLR-7 confers resistance to southern corn leaf blight in maize by synergistically regulating ROS homeostasis, SA/ET signal transduction, and downstream defense gene expression networks. Full article

Foot-and-mouth disease (FMD), bluetongue (BT), and Peste des Petits Ruminants (PPR) are major emerging and re-emerging viral infections affecting ruminants. These diseases can threaten livestock health, food security, and economic stability in low- and middle-income countries, including Algeria. However, their dynamics remain mostly unknown, limiting the implementation of effective preventive and control measures. We analyzed outbreak data reported by Algerian veterinary authorities and the WAHIS database from 2014 to 2022 for FMD; from 2006 to 2020 for BT; and from 2011 to 2022 for PPR to investigate their spatiotemporal patterns and environmental drivers. Over these periods, Algeria reported 1142 FMD outbreaks (10,409 cases; 0.16/1000 incidence), 167 BT outbreaks (602 cases; 0.018/1000), and 222 PPR outbreaks (3597 cases; 0.096/1000). Small ruminants were the most affected across all diseases, although cattle bore the highest burden of FMD. BT primarily impacted sheep, and PPR showed a higher incidence in goats. Disease peaks occurred in 2014 for FMD, 2008 for BT, and 2019 for PPR. Spatial analyses revealed distinct ecological hotspots: sub-humid and semi-arid zones for FMD and BT, and semi-arid/Saharan regions for PPR. These patterns may be influenced by species susceptibility, animal movement, trade, and climatic factors such as temperature and rainfall. The absence of consistent temporal trends and the persistence of outbreaks suggest multiple drivers, including insufficient vaccination coverage, under-reporting, viral evolution, and environmental persistence. Our findings underscore the importance of targeted species- and region-specific control strategies, including improved surveillance, cross-border coordination, and climate-informed risk mapping. Strengthening One Health frameworks will be essential to mitigate the re-emergence and spread of these diseases. Full article

H. pylori infects over half of the global population and is associated with various gastric and extra-gastric diseases. Other species, such as zoonotic non-Helicobacter pylori Helicobacters (NHPHs), have shown similar associations with gastritis and MALT lymphoma and H. pylori-negative cases with gastric disease have been identified, including gastric MALT lymphoma, chronic gastritis, and gastroduodenal ulcers. Accurate identification of these species is of great relevance but remains challenging using conventional diagnostic methods. This cross-sectional study aimed to determine the prevalence of H. pylori and NHPH infections, comparing standard histological protocols with molecular techniques. Between December 2024 and February 2025, 54 adult patients undergoing upper gastrointestinal endoscopy (UGE) with gastric biopsy in three hospitals in Algarve, Portugal were recruited. Endoscopic assessment was performed, and gastric biopsies were collected for histological and molecular analysis. DNA was extracted from antral biopsies and analyzed by conventional PCR to detect H. pylori and NHPH. H. pylori diagnostic techniques were compared, descriptive plus statistical analysis was performed, and p-values < 0.05 were considered to be statistically significant. Fifty-four patients were included in the study, with 51.9% of them presenting symptoms. Endoscopic gastritis was observed in 66.7% of patients, while histological gastritis was present in 88.9%, with statistically significant differences between the two diagnostic techniques (p = 0.004). Helicobacter spp. were identified in 44.4% (24/54) of the patients. H. pylori was detected in 42.6% of the patients by Modified Giemsa stain and in 33.3% by PCR. H. bizzozeronii was found in 35.9% of the patients, with 22.2% showing mixed infections. This study reveals a significant prevalence of Helicobacter spp. in patients from the Algarve region, with both H. pylori and zoonotic H. bizzozeronii detected. This is the first report of H. bizzozeronii DNA detection in gastric biopsies via PCR from patients undergoing UGE in Portugal, highlighting the need to consider NHPH in clinical diagnosis. It is important to include molecular methods in routine diagnostics and the need for broader studies to assess regional and national trends in Helicobacter infections besides H. pylori. Full article

Pseudomonas aeruginosa is a highly adaptable opportunistic pathogen with significant clinical relevance in both human and veterinary medicine. Despite its well-documented role in hospital-acquired infections in human healthcare settings, its persistence and transmission within veterinary clinics remain underexplored. This review highlights the overlooked status of veterinary facilities as environmental reservoirs and amplification points for multidrug-resistant (MDR) P. aeruginosa, emphasizing their relevance to One Health surveillance. We examine the bacterium’s environmental survival strategies, including biofilm formation, resistance to disinfectants, and tolerance to nutrient-poor conditions that facilitate the long-term colonization of moist surfaces, drains, medical equipment, and plumbing systems. Common transmission vectors are identified, including asymptomatic animal carriers, contaminated instruments, and the hands of veterinary staff. The review synthesizes current data on antimicrobial resistance in environmental isolates, revealing frequent expression of efflux pumps and mobile resistance genes, and documents the potential for zoonotic transmission to staff and pet owners. Key gaps in environmental monitoring, infection control protocols, and genomic surveillance are identified, with a call for standardized approaches tailored to the veterinary context. Control strategies, including mechanical biofilm disruption, disinfectant cycling, effluent monitoring, and staff hygiene training, are evaluated for feasibility and impact. The article concludes with a One Health framework outlining cross-species and environmental transmission pathways. It advocates for harmonized surveillance, infrastructure improvements, and intersectoral collaboration to reduce the risk posed by MDR P. aeruginosa within veterinary clinical environments and beyond. By addressing these blind spots, veterinary facilities can become proactive partners in antimicrobial stewardship and global resistance mitigation. Full article

Gastrointestinal (GI) parasitic infections in non-human primates are of growing concern due to their implications for both veterinary and public health. Long-tailed macaques (Macaca fascicularis), commonly found in peri-urban and temple environments in Southeast Asia, may act as reservoirs for zoonotic parasites, posing risks to humans and domestic animals. This study investigated the prevalence and species diversity of GI parasites in free-ranging macaques from four provinces in Northeast Thailand (Loei, Khon Kaen, Bueng Kan, and Sisaket). A cross-sectional study was conducted between April and May 2025. A total of 445 fecal samples were examined using two parasitological techniques: agar plate culture (APC) and the formalin–ethyl acetate concentration technique (FECT). The overall prevalence of parasitic infection was 86.5%, with Strongyloides sp. (65.2%) as the most prevalent helminth and Balantioides coli-like (29.5%) and Entamoeba histolytica-like (28.8%) as the predominant protozoa. Other parasites identified included helminths (Trichuris sp., Ascaris sp.) and protozoa (Blastocystis sp., Iodamoeba bütschlii, Entamoeba coli, and Chilomastix mesnili). Mixed infections were frequently observed, with both helminths and protozoa co-occurring in 37.3% of cases. The high infection rates and parasite diversity reflect substantial environmental contamination and sustained transmission cycles. These findings underscore the importance of integrated surveillance in wildlife populations and the need for One Health-based approaches to minimize zoonotic transmission risks at the human–animal–environment interface. Full article

Porcine rotavirus (PoRV), a primary etiological agent of viral diarrhea in piglets, frequently co-infects with other enteric pathogens, exacerbating disease severity and causing substantial economic losses. Its genetic recombination capability enables cross-species transmission potential, posing public health risks. Globally, twelve G genotypes and thirteen P genotypes have been identified, with G9, G5, G3, and G4 emerging as predominant circulating strains. The limited cross-protective immunity between genotypes compromises vaccine efficacy, necessitating genotype surveillance to guide vaccine development. While conventional molecular assays demonstrate sensitivity, they lack rapid genotyping capacity and face technical limitations. To address this, we developed a novel diagnostic platform integrating reverse transcription recombinase-aided amplification (RT-RAA) with CRISPR–Cas12a. This system employs universal primers for the simultaneous amplification of G4/G5/G9 genotypes in a single reaction, coupled with sequence-specific CRISPR recognition, achieving genotyping within 50 min at 37 °C with 10⁰ copies/μL sensitivity. Clinical validation showed a high concordance with reverse transcription quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR). This advancement provides an efficient tool for rapid viral genotyping, vaccine compatibility evaluation, and optimized epidemic control strategies. Full article

Chlamydia trachomatis infection is a public health problem. Serological tests can determine the disease burden and serve as a biomarker for identifying patients with infertility due to tubal obstruction. However, cross-reactions between chlamydial species have been reported, which causes problems with diagnosis. A real-time PCR commercial test for the detection of endocervical infection and two ELISAs with the recombinant major outer membrane protein (rMOMP) from C. trachomatis and C. abortus as antigens were used to diagnose both infections. The prevalence of endocervical infection by C. trachomatis was 7.77%, and that of IgG antibodies against C. trachomatis and C. abortus was 31.1% and 10.7%, respectively. The ELISA with C. trachomatis rMOMP showed a sensitivity of 75% and a specificity of 72.5%. The lowest sensitivity (25%) and high specificity (76.8%) were obtained with anti-C. abortus rMOMP ELISAs. A low cross-reactivity of 7% between ELISA tests was observed. Conclusion. The recombinant MOMP ELISA could help identify women who had contact with C. trachomatis or C. abortus and could be a tool to lower the costs of performing molecular testing on all patients attending an infertility clinic. Full article

Orthoflaviviruses (formerly flaviviruses) are known for their role in numerous diseases affecting both humans and animals. Despite the worldwide distribution of orthoflaviviruses, individual species are only found in endemic or epidemic regions. However, in recent decades, certain orthoflaviviruses have spread beyond their traditional geographic boundaries, even crossing continents. Given the long-distance movements of birds, the knowledge of zoonotic orthoflaviviruses associated with birds is essential because of their possible introduction into new regions, as was the case with West Nile virus and Usutu virus. A thorough literature review was conducted on zoonotic orthoflaviviruses related to birds, including lesser-known (re-)emerging and neglected orthoflaviviruses that are limited to specific regions and/or avian hosts but have the potential to spread to a wider geographical area and pose a higher risk of transmission to humans. Several of these viruses possess significant zoonotic potential and can cause a wide spectrum of diseases in humans, ranging from mild febrile illnesses (Zika virus) to severe neuroinvasive diseases (tick-borne encephalitis, West Nile, Japanese encephalitis virus) and hemorrhagic fevers (yellow fever, dengue virus). Geographic distribution, hosts, vectors, incidence of human infections, and impact on human and animal health of zoonotic flaviviruses related to birds are critically reviewed. The viruses have been categorized based on the role of birds as an orthoflavivirus host and the clinical presentation in human infections. Full article