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Keywords = nematode infection

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10 pages, 1663 KiB  
Article
First Detection and Molecular Identification of Rhabditis (Rhabditella) axei from the Chinese Red Panda (Ailurus styani)
by Chanjuan Yue, Wanjing Yang, Dunwu Qi, Mei Yang, James Edward Ayala, Yanshan Zhou, Chao Chen, Xiaoyan Su, Rong Hou and Songrui Liu
Pathogens 2025, 14(8), 783; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens14080783 - 6 Aug 2025
Abstract
Rhabditis (Rhabditella) axei is a predominantly free-living nematode commonly found in sewage systems and decomposing organic matter. While primarily saprophytic, it has been documented as an opportunistic pathogen in human urinary and gastrointestinal tracts. The Chinese red panda (Ailurus styani [...] Read more.
Rhabditis (Rhabditella) axei is a predominantly free-living nematode commonly found in sewage systems and decomposing organic matter. While primarily saprophytic, it has been documented as an opportunistic pathogen in human urinary and gastrointestinal tracts. The Chinese red panda (Ailurus styani), a rare and protected species in China, has not previously been reported as a host for Rhabditis (Rhabditella) spp. infections. This study reports the first documented occurrence of R. axei in red panda feces, unambiguously confirmed through integrative taxonomic approaches combining morphological and molecular analyses. The nematodes exhibited key morphological features consistent with R. axei, including a cylindrical rhabditiform esophagus, sexually dimorphic tail structures, and diagnostic spicule morphology. Molecular analysis based on 18S-ITS-28S rDNA sequencing confirmed their identity, showing >99% sequence similarity to R. axei reference strains (GenBank: PP135624.1, PP135622.1). Phylogenetic reconstruction using 18S rDNA and ITS rDNA sequences placed the isolate within a well-supported R. axei clade, clearly distinguishing it from related species such as R. blumi and R. brassicae. The findings demonstrate the ecological plasticity of R. axei as a facultative parasite capable of infecting non-traditional hosts and further highlight potential zoonotic risks associated with environmental exposure in captive wildlife populations. Our results emphasize the indispensable role of molecular diagnostics in accurately distinguishing morphologically similar nematodes within the Rhabditidae family, while providing essential baseline data for health monitoring in both in situ and ex situ conservation programs for this endangered species. Full article
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43 pages, 1183 KiB  
Review
Harnessing Legume Productivity in Tropical Farming Systems by Addressing Challenges Posed by Legume Diseases
by Catherine Hazel Aguilar, David Pires, Cris Cortaga, Reynaldo Peja, Maria Angela Cruz, Joanne Langres, Mark Christian Felipe Redillas, Leny Galvez and Mark Angelo Balendres
Nitrogen 2025, 6(3), 65; https://doi.org/10.3390/nitrogen6030065 - 5 Aug 2025
Abstract
Legumes are among the most important crops globally, serving as a major food source for protein and oil. In tropical regions, the cultivation of legumes has expanded significantly due to the increasing demand for food, plant-based products, and sustainable agriculture practices. However, tropical [...] Read more.
Legumes are among the most important crops globally, serving as a major food source for protein and oil. In tropical regions, the cultivation of legumes has expanded significantly due to the increasing demand for food, plant-based products, and sustainable agriculture practices. However, tropical environments pose unique challenges, including high temperatures, erratic rainfall, soil infertility, and a high incidence of pests and diseases. Indeed, legumes are vulnerable to infections caused by bacteria, fungi, oomycetes, viruses, and nematodes. This review highlights the importance of legumes in tropical farming and discusses major diseases affecting productivity and their impact on the economy, environment, and lives of smallholder legume farmers. We emphasize the use of legume genetic resources and breeding, and biotechnology innovations to foster resistance and address the challenges posed by pathogens in legumes. However, an integrated approach that includes other cultivation techniques (e.g., crop rotation, rational fertilization, deep plowing) remains important for the prevention and control of diseases in legume crops. Finally, we highlight the contributions of plant genetic resources to smallholder resilience and food security. Full article
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14 pages, 857 KiB  
Review
Human Anisakidosis with Intraoral Localization: A Narrative Review
by Stylianos Papadopoulos, Vasileios Zisis, Konstantinos Poulopoulos, Christina Charisi and Athanasios Poulopoulos
Parasitologia 2025, 5(3), 41; https://doi.org/10.3390/parasitologia5030041 - 4 Aug 2025
Viewed by 57
Abstract
Objectives: Anisakidosis is an emerging, cosmopolitan, and underdiagnosed parasitic disease caused by the accidental ingestion of third-stage anisakid larvae when consuming raw or improperly prepared seafood. Within hours to days of consuming infected raw seafood, patients may develop acute gastrointestinal symptoms including pain, [...] Read more.
Objectives: Anisakidosis is an emerging, cosmopolitan, and underdiagnosed parasitic disease caused by the accidental ingestion of third-stage anisakid larvae when consuming raw or improperly prepared seafood. Within hours to days of consuming infected raw seafood, patients may develop acute gastrointestinal symptoms including pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and/or constipation, as live anisakid larvae attach to the gastric, or more rarely, the intestinal mucosa. Cases have been reported in which the nematodes succeed at migrating from the stomach upwards to the esophagus and then the oral cavity. Therefore, the purpose of the present literature review is to collect, analyze, summarize and present the relevant epidemiological, clinical, diagnostic, parasitological, therapeutic, and prognostic data concerning anisakidosis localized inside the oral cavity. Methods: An electronic search of the PubMed, Scopus, and Ovid databases was performed with them being accessed for the last time on 29 March 2025. Results: The present literature review identified 13 individual case reports of oral mucosa anisakidosis, which were published in the period 1971–2022. Conclusions: Our review aims to summarize the relevant epidemiological, clinical, diagnostic, parasitological, therapeutic, and prognostic data regarding the oral localization of anisakidosis, a helminthic infection caused by the accidental ingestion of live anisakid larvae and which manifests mainly with gastrointestinal symptoms. Its localization in the oral mucosa appears to be exceptionally rare and, in most cases, occurs with a characteristic clinical picture, defined by the onset of acute mouth or throat pain immediately after the consumption of raw seafood and by the observation of one or more larvae, either lying on or penetrating the oral mucosa. Despite its rarity, dental health professionals and other clinicians should be aware of this disease and the possibility of its intraoral localization, since environmental factors on the one hand, and the adoption of foreign dietary habits on the other, will likely make anisakidosis a much more common disease worldwide in the near future. Full article
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20 pages, 11402 KiB  
Article
Identification and Characterization of NAC Transcription Factors Involved in Pine Wilt Nematode Resistance in Pinus massoniana
by Zhengping Zhao, Jieyun Lei, Min Zhang, Jiale Li, Chungeng Pi, Jinxiu Yu, Xuewu Yan, Kun Luo and Yonggang Xia
Plants 2025, 14(15), 2399; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants14152399 - 3 Aug 2025
Viewed by 186
Abstract
Pinus massoniana Lamb. is an economically important conifer native to China. However, it is highly susceptible to the pine wood nematode (Bursaphelenchus xylophilus, PWN), the causal agent of pine wilt disease (PWD), resulting in substantial ecological and economic losses. To elucidate [...] Read more.
Pinus massoniana Lamb. is an economically important conifer native to China. However, it is highly susceptible to the pine wood nematode (Bursaphelenchus xylophilus, PWN), the causal agent of pine wilt disease (PWD), resulting in substantial ecological and economic losses. To elucidate potential molecular defense mechanisms, 50 NAC (NAM, ATAF1/2, and CUC2) transcription factors (PmNACs) were identified in the P. massoniana genome. Phylogenetic analysis divided these PmNACs into seven subfamilies, and motif analysis identified ten conserved motifs associated with stress responses. Twenty-three genes were selected for expression analysis in various tissues and under exogenous salicylic acid (SA), methyl jasmonate (MeJA), and PWN infection. Six genes (PmNAC1, PmNAC8, PmNAC9, PmNAC17, PmNAC18, and PmNAC20) were significantly up-regulated by both hormonal treatment and PWN infection, implying their involvement in JA/SA-mediated immune pathways. Functional characterization showed PmNAC8 is a nuclear-localized transcription factor with autoactivation activity. Furthermore, transient overexpression of PmNAC8 in Nicotiana benthamiana induced reactive oxygen species (ROS) accumulation and necrotic lesions. Collectively, these results elucidate NAC-mediated defense responses to PWN infection in P. massoniana and identify candidate genes for developing PWD-resistant pine varieties. Full article
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16 pages, 1632 KiB  
Article
Meloidogyne incognita Significantly Alters the Cucumber Root Metabolome and Enriches Differential Accumulated Metabolites Regulating Nematode Chemotaxis and Infection
by Naicun Chen, Qianqian Sun, Zhiqun Chen and Xu Zhang
Horticulturae 2025, 11(8), 892; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae11080892 (registering DOI) - 1 Aug 2025
Viewed by 178
Abstract
Root-knot nematode (Meloidogyne incognita) is a globally destructive plant-parasitic nematode that severely impedes the sustainable production of horticultural crops. Metabolic reprogramming in plant roots represents the host response to M. incognita infection that can also be exploited by the nematode to [...] Read more.
Root-knot nematode (Meloidogyne incognita) is a globally destructive plant-parasitic nematode that severely impedes the sustainable production of horticultural crops. Metabolic reprogramming in plant roots represents the host response to M. incognita infection that can also be exploited by the nematode to facilitate its parasitism. In this study, untargeted metabolomics was employed to analyze metabolic changes in cucumber roots following nematode inoculation, with the goal of identifying differentially accumulated metabolites that may influence M. incognita behavior. Metabolomic analysis revealed that M. incognita significantly altered the cucumber root metabolome, triggering an accumulation of lipids and organic acids and enriching biotic stress-related pathways such as alkaloid biosynthesis and linoleic acid metabolism. Among differentially accumulated metabolites, myristic acid and hexadecanal were selected for further study due to their potential roles in nematode inhibition. In vitro assays demonstrated that both metabolites suppressed egg hatching and reduced infectivity of M. incognita, while pot experiments indicated a correlation between their application and reduced root gall formation. Chemotaxis assays further revealed that both metabolites exerted repellent effects on the chemotactic migration of M. incognita J2 and suppressed the transcriptional expression of two motility-and feeding-related neuropeptides, Mi-flp-1 and Mi-flp-18. In conclusion, this study demonstrates the significant potential of differentially accumulated metabolites induced by M. incognita infection for nematode disease control, achieved by interfering with nematode chemotaxis and subsequent infection. This work also provides deeper insights into the metabolomic mechanisms underlying the cucumber-M. incognita interaction. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue 10th Anniversary of Horticulturae—Recent Outcomes and Perspectives)
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17 pages, 1706 KiB  
Article
Root-Emitted Volatile Organic Compounds from Daucus carota Modulate Chemotaxis in Phasmarhabditis and Oscheius Nematodes
by Emre Sen, Tamás Lakatos, Tímea Tóth, Stanislav Trdan and Žiga Laznik
Agronomy 2025, 15(8), 1793; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy15081793 - 25 Jul 2025
Viewed by 832
Abstract
Root-emitted volatile organic compounds (VOCs) play a critical role in below-ground ecological interactions by mediating communication between plants, pests, and their natural enemies. This study investigates the chemotactic behavior of three slug-parasitic nematode species—Phasmarhabditis papillosa, Oscheius myriophilus, and Oscheius onirici [...] Read more.
Root-emitted volatile organic compounds (VOCs) play a critical role in below-ground ecological interactions by mediating communication between plants, pests, and their natural enemies. This study investigates the chemotactic behavior of three slug-parasitic nematode species—Phasmarhabditis papillosa, Oscheius myriophilus, and Oscheius onirici—in response to four carrot (Daucus carota) root-derived VOCs: α-pinene, terpinolene, bornyl acetate, and 2-ethyl-1-hexanol. Using a modified Petri dish assay, infective juveniles (IJs) were exposed to each compound across four concentrations (pure, 1000 ppm, 10 ppm, and 0.03 ppm), and their directional movement was quantified using a chemotaxis index (CI). The results revealed strong species-specific and concentration-dependent patterns. O. myriophilus exhibited the highest motility and repellency, particularly toward bornyl acetate and terpinolene, indicating its potential for use in VOC-guided biocontrol strategies. O. onirici showed moderate but consistent attraction to most VOCs, while P. papillosa exhibited generally weak or repellent responses, especially at higher concentrations. None of the compounds tested functioned as strong attractants (CI ≥ 0.2), suggesting that plant-derived VOCs alone may not be sufficient to direct nematode recruitment under field conditions. However, their integration with other biotic cues could enhance nematode-based “lure-and-infect” systems for sustainable slug control in carrot cropping systems. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Pest and Disease Management)
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14 pages, 1031 KiB  
Article
Seroprevalence of IgG and IgE Antibodies Against Anisakis in the Presumably Healthy Population of the Canary Islands
by Eligia González-Rodríguez, Marta Rodero, J. Alberto Montoya-Alonso, Kevin M. Santana-Hernández, Myriam R. Ventura, Carmen Cuéllar and Eligia Rodríguez-Ponce
Antibodies 2025, 14(3), 60; https://doi.org/10.3390/antib14030060 - 17 Jul 2025
Viewed by 224
Abstract
Food-borne zoonoses, particularly anisakiosis caused by Anisakis spp., are an increasing public health concern due to the rising consumption of raw fish. Anisakiosis results from the ingestion of third-stage larvae of Anisakidae nematodes, with the genus Anisakis re-sponsible for approximately 97% of human [...] Read more.
Food-borne zoonoses, particularly anisakiosis caused by Anisakis spp., are an increasing public health concern due to the rising consumption of raw fish. Anisakiosis results from the ingestion of third-stage larvae of Anisakidae nematodes, with the genus Anisakis re-sponsible for approximately 97% of human cases. While regulatory protocols exist to minimize infection risk in commercial settings, domestic food preparation often lacks such safeguards, creating a gap in public health protection. In the Canary Islands, a major Spanish aquaculture region, farmed fish exhibit a low Anisakis prevalence, suggesting minimal risk from aquaculture products. In contrast, wild-caught fish demonstrate varia-ble parasitism, with recent studies reporting a 25% prevalence among commercial species. Methods: This study assessed Anisakis exposure in the Canary Islands by measuring specific IgG and IgE antibodies in 1043 serum samples collected from all seven islands between March 2014 and October 2015. ELISA assays detected anti-Anisakis antibodies, and the results were analyzed by age, sex, island, and isoclimatic zone. Results: Overall, 16.9% of samples were IgG-positive and 6.8% were IgE-positive. Seroprevalence was significantly higher in indi-viduals aged 60 years and above. Geographic heterogeneity was notable: La Palma had the highest IgG seroprevalence (35.3%), while El Hierro showed the highest IgE prevalence (16.3%). Temperate isoclimatic zones exhibited higher antibody prevalence than dry zones. These findings indicate variable Anisakis exposure across the Canary Islands, likely influenced by environmental and behavioral factors. Conclusions: The results highlight the need for targeted public health interventions to reduce the anisakiosis risk, particularly in regions and populations with elevated exposure. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Antibody-Based Diagnostics)
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15 pages, 680 KiB  
Article
A Prevalence Study on Anoplocephala spp. in Serbian Horses: Navigating Diagnostic Challenges and Understanding Infection Risks
by Tijana Kukurić, Mihajlo Erdeljan, Jacqueline B. Matthews, Kirsty L. Lightbody, Corrine J. Austin, Natalia Peczak, Aleksandra Uzelac, Ivana Klun and Stanislav Simin
Animals 2025, 15(14), 2094; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani15142094 - 16 Jul 2025
Viewed by 349
Abstract
Anoplocephala spp. are common equine tapeworm species in Europe, frequently found in grazing horses. Anoplocephala perfoliata is the most pathogenic, clinically significant species associated with gastrointestinal disorders, particularly colic, and can have a fatal outcome in some horses. The aim of this study [...] Read more.
Anoplocephala spp. are common equine tapeworm species in Europe, frequently found in grazing horses. Anoplocephala perfoliata is the most pathogenic, clinically significant species associated with gastrointestinal disorders, particularly colic, and can have a fatal outcome in some horses. The aim of this study was to determine the infection prevalence of Anoplocephala spp. in Serbia and to identify relevant risk factors. A total of 173 horses from various regions were tested using a combination of diagnostic methods: coprological analysis via combined sedimentation–flotation and the Mini-FLOTAC technique, as well as serological testing using a commercial ELISA test. The overall prevalence was 38.7%, with a higher number of positive cases being identified by serology. It was demonstrated that coprology and serology are complementary approaches for prevalence studies. Infection risk factors included high stocking density, free-roaming status and co-infection with nematodes, while lower rainfall and temperate climate were associated with reduced risk of tapeworm infection. These findings highlight the challenges of Anoplocephala spp. detection and provide insight into the epidemiology of equine tapeworm infection in Southeastern Europe. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Veterinary Clinical Studies)
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23 pages, 5108 KiB  
Review
The Invasive Mechanism and Impact of Arundo donax, One of the World’s 100 Worst Invasive Alien Species
by Hisashi Kato-Noguchi and Midori Kato
Plants 2025, 14(14), 2175; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants14142175 - 14 Jul 2025
Viewed by 365
Abstract
Arundo donax L. has been introduced in markets worldwide due to its economic value. However, it is listed in the world’s 100 worst alien invasive species because it easily escapes from cultivation, and forms dense monospecific stands in riparian areas, agricultural areas, and [...] Read more.
Arundo donax L. has been introduced in markets worldwide due to its economic value. However, it is listed in the world’s 100 worst alien invasive species because it easily escapes from cultivation, and forms dense monospecific stands in riparian areas, agricultural areas, and grassland areas along roadsides, including in protected areas. This species grows rapidly and produces large amounts of biomass due to its high photosynthetic ability. It spreads asexually through ramets, in addition to stem and rhizome fragments. Wildfires, flooding, and human activity promote its distribution and domination. It can adapt to various habitats and tolerate various adverse environmental conditions, such as cold temperatures, drought, flooding, and high salinity. A. donax exhibits defense mechanisms against biotic stressors, including herbivores and pathogens. It produces indole alkaloids, such as bufotenidine and gramine, as well as other alkaloids that are toxic to herbivorous mammals, insects, parasitic nematodes, and pathogenic fungi and oomycetes. A. donax accumulates high concentrations of phytoliths, which also protect against pathogen infection and herbivory. Only a few herbivores and pathogens have been reported to significantly damage A. donax growth and populations. Additionally, A. donax exhibits allelopathic activity against competing plant species, though the allelochemicals involved have yet to be identified. These characteristics may contribute to its infestation, survival, and population expansion in new habitats as an invasive plant species. Dense monospecific stands of A. donax alter ecosystem structures and functions. These stands impact abiotic processes in ecosystems by reducing water availability, and increasing the risk of erosion, flooding, and intense fires. The stands also negatively affect biotic processes by reducing plant diversity and richness, as well as the fitness of habitats for invertebrates and vertebrates. Eradicating A. donax from a habitat requires an ongoing, long-term integrated management approach based on an understanding of its invasive mechanisms. Human activity has also contributed to the spread of A. donax populations. There is an urgent need to address its invasive traits. This is the first review focusing on the invasive mechanisms of this plant in terms of adaptation to abiotic and biotic stressors, particularly physiological adaptation. Full article
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10 pages, 4102 KiB  
Article
Silencing of the Alkaline α-Galactosidase Gene CsAGA1 Impairs Root and Gall Development in Cucumber upon Meloidogyne incognita Infection
by Tingting Ji, Xingyi Wang, Xueyun Wang, Lihong Gao, Yongqiang Tian and Si Ma
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2025, 26(14), 6686; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms26146686 - 11 Jul 2025
Viewed by 461
Abstract
Meloidogyne incognita (M. incognita) is a devastating root-knot nematode that parasitizes a broad range of crop species by inducing the formation of giant cells (GCs) in host roots, thereby facilitating nutrient acquisition. This process profoundly alters host sugar metabolism, yet the [...] Read more.
Meloidogyne incognita (M. incognita) is a devastating root-knot nematode that parasitizes a broad range of crop species by inducing the formation of giant cells (GCs) in host roots, thereby facilitating nutrient acquisition. This process profoundly alters host sugar metabolism, yet the molecular regulators underlying sugar dynamics during infection remain poorly understood in cucumber. In this study, we investigated the role of the cucumber alkaline α-galactosidase gene (CsAGA1) in M. incognita-infected roots. Histochemical analysis of proCsAGA1::GUS transgenic lines demonstrated that CsAGA1 is spatially localized to nematode-induced feeding sites, with its expression markedly induced in GCs and phloem-adjacent tissues during infection. Functional analyses revealed that silencing CsAGA1 impaired root and gall development. CsAGA1-silenced plants exhibited increased gall numbers (per gram root) but significantly reduced root growth and smaller galls compared to controls. These results indicate that CsAGA1 is required for proper gall expansion and root growth during M. incognita infection. This study provides novel insight into the sugar-mediated regulation of host–nematode interactions, and CsAGA1 emerges as a potential target for the biological control of M. incognita. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biotic and Abiotic Stress Responses of Vegetable Crops)
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20 pages, 3269 KiB  
Article
Immunomodulatory Effect of a Cysteine-Rich Secretory Protein from an Entomopathogenic Nematode with Sterol-Binding Activity
by Jorge Frias, Duarte Toubarro, Tiago Paiva and Nelson Simões
Toxins 2025, 17(7), 342; https://doi.org/10.3390/toxins17070342 - 5 Jul 2025
Viewed by 484
Abstract
The Steinernema carpocapsae nematode is known to release several excretory/secretory products (ESPs) in its venom upon contact and during the parasitic infection process of insect hosts. A recurrent family of proteins found in this nematode’s venom is the CAP (cysteine-rich secretory protein/antigen 5/pathogenesis-related [...] Read more.
The Steinernema carpocapsae nematode is known to release several excretory/secretory products (ESPs) in its venom upon contact and during the parasitic infection process of insect hosts. A recurrent family of proteins found in this nematode’s venom is the CAP (cysteine-rich secretory protein/antigen 5/pathogenesis-related 1) protein, but the functional role of these proteins remains unknown. To elucidate the biological function, this study focused on characterising the secreted protein, first identified in the venom of the nematode’s parasitic stage, and the sequence retrieved from transcriptomic analysis. The structural comparisons of the Sc-CAP protein model, as determined by AlphaFold2, revealed related structures from other parasitic nematodes of vertebrates. Some of these closely related proteins are reported to have sterol-binding ability. The Sc-CAP recombinant protein was successfully produced in Escherichia coli in conjunction with a chaperone protein. The results showed that the Sc-CAP protein binds to cholesterol, and docking analyses of sterols on the protein revealed potential molecular interactions. Immunoassays performed in Galleria mellonella larvae revealed that this venom protein has an inhibitory effect against phenoloxidase and the antimicrobial response of insects. This suggests that the venom protein has an immunomodulatory function against insects, emphasising its importance during the parasite–host interaction. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Animal Venoms)
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18 pages, 2118 KiB  
Article
Screening of Mutant Lines and Varieties/Hybrids of Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) for Resistance to the Northern Root-Knot Nematode Meloidogyne hapla
by Svetlana Nikolaevna Nekoval, Zhanneta Zaurovna Tukhuzheva, Arina Konstantinovna Churikova, Valentin Valentinovich Ivanov and Oksana Aleksandrovna Maskalenko
Horticulturae 2025, 11(7), 798; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae11070798 - 5 Jul 2025
Viewed by 421
Abstract
Root-knot nematodes, Meloidogyne spp., are widespread phytoparasites that cause a significant reduction in the yield of tomato Solanum lycopersicum. In the Russian Federation, where the use of chemical nematicides is limited due to environmental and toxicological risks, the cultivation of resistant varieties [...] Read more.
Root-knot nematodes, Meloidogyne spp., are widespread phytoparasites that cause a significant reduction in the yield of tomato Solanum lycopersicum. In the Russian Federation, where the use of chemical nematicides is limited due to environmental and toxicological risks, the cultivation of resistant varieties and hybrids remains the most effective and environmentally safe method to control Meloidogyne. In the course of this study, the resistance screening of 20 tomato varieties/hybrids and 21 mutant lines from the collection of the FSBSI FRCBPP to M. hapla was carried out using a comprehensive approach that included morphological and biochemical analysis methods. Resistance was assessed by calculating the gall formation index, the degree of root system damage, and biochemical parameters of fruits—vitamin C content and titratable acidity. In addition, molecular screening was carried out using the SCAR marker Mi23 to identify the Mi-1.2 gene, known as a key factor in resistance to a number of Meloidogyne spp. Although Mi-1.2 is not typically associated with resistance to M. hapla, all genotypes carrying this gene showed phenotypic resistance. This unexpected correlation suggests the possible involvement of Mi-associated or parallel mechanisms and highlights the need for further investigation into noncanonical resistance pathways. It was found that when susceptible genotypes were infected with M. hapla, there was a tendency for the vitamin C content to decrease, while resistant lines retained values close to the control. The presence of the Mi-1.2 gene was confirmed in 9.5% of samples. However, the phenotypic resistance of some lines, such as Volgogradets, which do not contain a marker for the Mi-1.2 gene, indicates a polygenic nature of resistance, alternative genetic mechanisms, or the possible influence of epigenetic mechanisms. The obtained data highlight the potential of using the identified resistant genotypes in breeding programs and the need for further studies of the molecular mechanisms of resistance, including the search for new markers specific to M. hapla, to develop effective strategies for tomato protection in sustainable agriculture. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Management of Pathogens in Horticultural Crops)
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26 pages, 346 KiB  
Article
Hematological Parameters of Clinically Healthy Indigenous Greek Goats (Capra prisca) and Their Associations with Parasitological Findings, Age and Reproductive Stage
by Konstantinos V. Arsenopoulos, Eleni Michalopoulou, Eleftherios Triantafyllou, George C. Fthenakis and Elias Papadopoulos
Agriculture 2025, 15(13), 1445; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture15131445 - 4 Jul 2025
Viewed by 285
Abstract
Objectives: The present study aimed to determine the reference intervals for complete blood count and total protein parameters in Greek indigenous Capra prisca goats and to evaluate their associations with parasitic burden, age and reproductive stage. Methods: Two-hundred clinically health goats were grouped [...] Read more.
Objectives: The present study aimed to determine the reference intervals for complete blood count and total protein parameters in Greek indigenous Capra prisca goats and to evaluate their associations with parasitic burden, age and reproductive stage. Methods: Two-hundred clinically health goats were grouped by parasite status (gastrointestinal nematodes, Eimeria spp., and lungworm infection), age (3–6-month-old growing kids; lactating non-pregnant goats ≤ 3 or >3 years old) and reproductive stage (non-lactating pregnant goats; lactating non-pregnant goats). Blood samples were analyzed for erythrogram, leukogram and megakaryocytic parameters using an automated analyzer and manual blood smears. Total plasma proteins were measured using refractometry. Results: Gastrointestinal nematode-infected animals (>300 eggs per gram of feces) were associated with a significant reduction in red blood cell counts and hematocrit estimation, and an increase in mean corpuscular hemoglobin and mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentrations, while lungworm-infected animals were associated with decreased red blood cells, red cell distribution width and neutrophils, and increased lymphocytes compared to non-infected animals. Eimeria spp. affected only basophils in growing kids. Age influenced all erythrocytic and leukocytic parameters (apart from neutrophils and monocytes), as well as all megakaryocytic parameters and total proteins, with younger animals showing higher red and white blood cell counts and platelets compared to adults. Pregnant does had elevated hemoglobin, hematocrit, neutrophils and monocytes compared with lactating non-pregnant does. Conclusions: The calculated 95% reference intervals for our demographic groups of animals provide a useful diagnostic framework for assessing Capra prisca health in Greek goat farming. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Farm Animal Production)
14 pages, 2040 KiB  
Article
Phenotypic Screening of H1-Antihistamines Identifies Promethazine and Rupatadine as Active Compounds Against Toxocara canis Infective Larvae
by Taís C. Silva, Julia Godoy-Silva, Monique C. Amaro, João V. Silva-Silva, Thiago H. Doring, Leonardo L. G. Ferreira, Adriano D. Andricopulo and Josué de Moraes
Pharmaceuticals 2025, 18(7), 997; https://doi.org/10.3390/ph18070997 - 2 Jul 2025
Viewed by 563
Abstract
Background: Parasitic worm infections remain among the most prevalent and neglected health issues worldwide, affecting both humans and animals. Toxocariasis, caused by Toxocara spp., is a widespread zoonosis with significant public health and economic implications. Current anthelmintic treatments show limited efficacy, particularly [...] Read more.
Background: Parasitic worm infections remain among the most prevalent and neglected health issues worldwide, affecting both humans and animals. Toxocariasis, caused by Toxocara spp., is a widespread zoonosis with significant public health and economic implications. Current anthelmintic treatments show limited efficacy, particularly against tissue-migrating larvae, underscoring the urgent need for new therapeutic options. This study aimed to evaluate the anthelmintic potential of H1 antihistamines as repurposed drug candidates against Toxocara canis. Methods: Twenty-two H1 antihistamines were screened for larvicidal activity against infective third-stage (L3) larvae of T. canis. Larval motility and morphology were assessed, and compounds with the highest efficacy were further investigated using density functional theory (DFT) to explore their electronic properties. Molecular docking simulations were also performed to predict interactions with T. canis β-tubulin. Results: Promethazine and rupatadine exhibited significant larvicidal effects, surpassing albendazole in reducing larval motility and inducing a distinct contorted morphology not observed in control or albendazole-treated larvae. DFT analyses suggested a strong electron-acceptor capacity, indicating a potential redox-based mechanism of action. Docking studies revealed favorable binding to the colchicine site of T. canis β-tubulin. Conclusions: This is the first report of larvicidal activity of antihistamines against T. canis, supporting their potential as repurposed therapeutic agents for the treatment of zoonotic helminthiases, particularly those caused by tissue-migrating nematodes. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Antiparasitic Drug Research)
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15 pages, 868 KiB  
Article
Comparative Genomics Reveals Ancient and Unique Pathogenicity Features in Australian Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. vasinfectum
by Angel David Popa-Baez, Linda J. Smith, Warwick N. Stiller, Melanie Soliveres, Gunjan Pandey, Christopher A. Saski, Don C. Jones and Iain W. Wilson
J. Fungi 2025, 11(7), 481; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof11070481 - 25 Jun 2025
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Abstract
Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. vasinfectum (Fov) is a devastating cotton pathogen. Australian Fov strains are distinguished by their ability to infect plants without nematode interaction and are genetically distinct from global Fov, classified into two vegetative compatibility groups (VCG-01111 and [...] Read more.
Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. vasinfectum (Fov) is a devastating cotton pathogen. Australian Fov strains are distinguished by their ability to infect plants without nematode interaction and are genetically distinct from global Fov, classified into two vegetative compatibility groups (VCG-01111 and VCG-01112). Here, we present chromosome-level genome assemblies of a historical isolate for each Australian Fov VCG. The end-to-end gapless genome assemblies demonstrate high contiguity and completeness, with 97.7% BUSCO completeness for both isolates. Phylogenetic analysis indicates that the Australian Fov lineages diverged from other known Fov genomes over 3.6 million years ago, while VCG-01111 and VCG-01112 separated approximately 1.1 million years ago. Comparative genomics analysis identified four accessory chromosomes unique to the Australian isolates. Functional annotations revealed 14,495 and 15,342 genes in VCG-01111 and VCG-01112, respectively, with accessory chromosomes containing significantly fewer genes than core chromosomes. Ortholog analysis uncovered unique gene clusters enriched in key metabolic pathways, pathogenicity, and cell division processes. Additionally, we identified several novel lineage-specific peptides unique to each Australian isolate. This comprehensive genomic characterization provides the first insights into the unique evolutionary history of Australian Fov, distinguishing them from global Fov races. Our findings lay the foundation for understanding the genetic factors underlying their exceptional virulence, which makes Australian Fov among the most aggressive cotton pathogens worldwide. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Fungal Genomics, Genetics and Molecular Biology)
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