On August 14th,2018,a Beijing resident living in Xicheng District found a female H.longicornis tick attached to the skin at the front of his upper shin.On examination,the patient was afebrile and appeared well.The spe...On August 14th,2018,a Beijing resident living in Xicheng District found a female H.longicornis tick attached to the skin at the front of his upper shin.On examination,the patient was afebrile and appeared well.The species of the tick was identified through morphological characteristics and phylogenetic analysis based on cytochrome C oxidase subunit I.This H.longicornis tick was screened for tick-borne pathogens such as viruses,bacteria and parasites.RNA pathogens were screened by PCR and sequencing,while DNA pathogens were screened by metagenomic analyses.It was found that the tick was positive for the DNA sequences of zoonotic and animal pathogens such as A phagocytophilum,Ehrlichia minasensis and C.burnetii.Considering the good health condition of the patient,we hypothesized that the pathogens originated from the tick specimen itself rather than host blood meal.For the first time,our study reveals the possible risk of transmission of tick-borne pathogens to human beings through tick bit in downtown Beijing.Further research is needed to screen for tick-borne pathogens among unfed ticks collected from central Beijing.展开更多
Pathogens like bacteria and protozoa,which affect human and animal health worldwide,can be transmitted by vectors like ticks.To investigate the epidemiology and genetic diversity of bacteria and protozoans carried by ...Pathogens like bacteria and protozoa,which affect human and animal health worldwide,can be transmitted by vectors like ticks.To investigate the epidemiology and genetic diversity of bacteria and protozoans carried by ticks in Chengmai county of Hainan province,China,285 adult hard ticks belonging to two species[Rhipicephalus sanguineus(sensu lato):183,64.21%and Rhipicephalus microplus:102,35.79%]from dogs,cattle,and goats were collected.Microbial families were identified in these ticks by amplifying the 18 S r RNA,16 S r RNA(rrs),citrate synthase(glt A),and heat shock protein(gro EL)genes.Our data revealed the presence of four recognized species and two Candidatus spp.of Anaplasmataceae and Coxiellaceae.In sum,these data reveal an extensive diversity of Anaplasmataceae bacteria,Coxiellaceae bacteria,Babesiidae,and Hepatozoidae in ticks from Hainan Island,highlighting the need to understand the tickborne pathogen infection in local animals and humans.展开更多
Objective: To determine the prevalence of zoonotic tick-borne bacteria in feeding ticks removed from hunted wild animals. Methods: PCR was executed on DNA extracted from 77 tick pools to detect Anaplasma phagocytophil...Objective: To determine the prevalence of zoonotic tick-borne bacteria in feeding ticks removed from hunted wild animals. Methods: PCR was executed on DNA extracted from 77 tick pools to detect Anaplasma phagocytophilum, Bartonella spp., Borrelia burgdorferi sensu lato, Coxiella burnetii and Rickettsia spp. Results: A total of 432 ticks were collected: 30(6.94%) Haemaphysalis punctata, 72(16.7%) Dermacentor marginatus and 330(76.38%) Ixodes ricinus. For each animal one or two pools of 3 ticks of the same species was constituted. Seventy-seven tick pools were examined by PCR: 58(75.32%) resulted infected and among them 14(18.18%) showed co-infections. In particular, 29(37.66%) pools were positive for Bartonella spp., 23(29.87%) for Anaplasma phagocytophilum, 16(20.78%) for Rickettsia spp., and 5(6.49%) for Borrelia burgdorferi s.l. All samples were negative for Coxiella burnetii. Conclusions: The results demonstrate the presence of several zoonotic tick-borne pathogens in the studied area, and underline the risk of exposure to infections for hunters not only during the outdoor activity, but also when they manipulate hunted animals infested by infected ticks.展开更多
Objective:Different studies have been performed on the prevalence of tick-borne pathogens in different areas of Iran;however,as far as our knowledge,there is no regional meta-analysis available for consideration and e...Objective:Different studies have been performed on the prevalence of tick-borne pathogens in different areas of Iran;however,as far as our knowledge,there is no regional meta-analysis available for consideration and estimation of tick species infected with different pathogens in Iran.Methods:In this review,among different databases,a total of 95 publications were included,and the infection of different tick species to different tick-borne pathogens was determined;furthermore,presence of pathogens(with 95%confidence intervals)in tick vectors was calculated separately for each province,using Comprehensive Meta-Analysis version 2(Biostat,USA).Results:Totally,among all 95 studies,5673 out of 33521 investigated ticks were positive according to different detection methods.Overall estimated presence of pathogens in tick vectors in Iran was 8.6%(95%CI 7.0%-10.6%,P<0.001).Of all 46 species of ticks in 10 genera in Iran,28 species in 9 genera,including Alveonasus,Argas,Boophilus,Dermacentor,Haemaphysalis,Hyalomma,Ixodes,Ornithodoros,and Rhipicephalus were infected with at least 20 pathogens in 10 genera including Aegyptianella,Anaplasma,Babesia,Borrelia,Brucella,Orthonairovirus[CrimeanCongo hemorrhagic fever virus(CCHFV)],Coxiella,Ehrlichia,Rickettsia and Theileria in 26 provinces of Iran.The presence of pathogens in ticks collected in western Iran was more than other regions.Hyalomma anatolicum(20.35%),Rhipicephalus sanguineus(15.00%),and Rhipicephalus bursa(14.08%)were the most prevalent infected ticks for different pathogens.In addition,most literatures were related to CCHFV and Theileria/Babesia spp.Conclusions:Public health and veterinary professionals should be aware of diagnosing possible diseases or outbreaks in vertebrates.展开更多
Ticks function as critical vectors for a wide range of pathogens that pose significant risks to both human and animal health.In recent years,the number and diversity of tick-borne pathogens have increased at an unprec...Ticks function as critical vectors for a wide range of pathogens that pose significant risks to both human and animal health.In recent years,the number and diversity of tick-borne pathogens have increased at an unprecedented rate,elevating tick-borne diseases(TBDs)to a major public health concern on a global scale.TBDs present a dual challenge,not only affecting human populations but also causing substantial economic losses in livestock industries across the world.The geographic distribution of many TBDs is shifting,with emerging,re-emerging,and resurging cases influenced by environmental factors such as deforestation and climate change.In China,rapid urbanization and concurrent improvements in urban ecological conditions have contributed to the expansion of tick habitats and increased human exposure to tick populations.Recent research warns that ticks and their associated pathogens present significant risks in urban environments,particularly in locations such as parks,playgrounds,and zoos.Despite these threats,public awareness of tick-borne diseases remains critically low.This review consolidates current knowledge on tick species and tick-borne pathogens found in urban parks and proposes strategic control measures to inform effective tick management policies both in China and globally.展开更多
Recently,there has been a continuous stream of reports on emerging tick-borne pathogens affecting humans.Qinghai Province,located in the northweastern region,is one of China’s major pastoral areas,providing a suitabl...Recently,there has been a continuous stream of reports on emerging tick-borne pathogens affecting humans.Qinghai Province,located in the northweastern region,is one of China’s major pastoral areas,providing a suitable environment for ticks''survival and transmitting tick-borne pathogens.Here,we collected 560 free-living and parasitic ticks from 11 locations in Qinghai Province using the flag-drag method or tweezers,identifying them as belonging to 4 species of ticks.The overall positivity rate for tick-borne pathogens was 51.61%,comprisingRickettsia(34.64%),Anaplasma(5.00%),Ehrlichia(2.14%),Borrelia burgdorferi sensu lato(BBSL)(7.50%),Babesia(0.18%),andTheileria(5.89%).Sequencing revealed the presence of 7 species ofRickettsia,4 species ofAnaplasma,2 species ofEhrlichia,2 species of BBSL,1 species ofBabesia,and 3 species ofTheileria.Among the ticks,6.43%were co-infected with 2 pathogens,while 0.36%exhibited co-infection with 3 pathogens.Significant correlations(P<0.05)were observed between the prevalence of tick-borne pathogens and factors including tick species,sex,developmental stages,parasitic status,and blood-feeding status.The results highlight the diverse distribution of tick-borne pathogens in Qinghai Province,posing a significant threat to both local animal husbandry and human health.It underscores the need to enhance systematic monitoring of tick-borne pathogens in the local population and livestock.展开更多
Background:A wide variety of pathogens could be maintained and transmitted by Haemaphysalis longicornis.The aim of this study is to systematically examine the variety of pathogens carried by Haemaphysalis longicornis,...Background:A wide variety of pathogens could be maintained and transmitted by Haemaphysalis longicornis.The aim of this study is to systematically examine the variety of pathogens carried by Haemaphysalis longicornis,an importnatn vector,in tick-borne diseases epidemic area,and to estimate the risk of human infection imposed by tick bites.Methods:Adult questing ticks were collected in Xinyang,central China.Genomic DNA and RNA were extracted from 144 H.longicornis ticks individually,and sequenced respectively as the templates for high-throughput sequencing.Clean reads were compared against the database of NCBI nucleotide collection and specific PCR was performed to confirm the presence of pathogen.Phylogenetic analysis was performed to explore the evolutionary status of pathogens.Results:The assignment of reads to taxa based on BLASTN results revealed the existence of several potential pathogens,including Anaplasma spp.,Rickettsia spp.,Babesia sp.,as well as severe fever with thrombocytopenia syndrome bunyavirus(SFTSV).Comfirmantory PCR assays revealed the existence of Anaplasma bovis(13/144,9.03%),Anaplasma centrale(2/144,1.39%),Rickettsia heilongjiangensis(3/144,2.08%),Rickettsia sp.LON-13(1/144,0.69%),Rickettsia raoultii(5/144,3.47%),Babesia sp.(1/144,0.69%).SFTSV accounted for the highest detected pathogen with a positive rate of 18.75%(27/144).Three of the ticks(2.08%)were co-infected with SFTSV and A.bovis.Conclusion:Our study provided a broadened list of microorganism that harbored by H.longicornis.In previously unrecognized endemic regions,prokaryotic and eukaryotic infection including Anaplasma spp.,Rickettsiae spp.,and Babesia spp.should be considered,along with the well-known SFTSV for patients with tick bites history.A novel Babesia species was identified in local natural foci,which needs further investigation in the future.展开更多
Objective:To uncover the characteristics of tick-borne viruses in Guizhou Province.Methods:A total of 414 Rhipicephalus microplus were collected from 5 counties in Guizhou Province,China from August 2022 to October 20...Objective:To uncover the characteristics of tick-borne viruses in Guizhou Province.Methods:A total of 414 Rhipicephalus microplus were collected from 5 counties in Guizhou Province,China from August 2022 to October 2023.A group of 12 ticks from each study sites was sequenced by next generation sequencing.Results:8 contigs of Wuhan mivirus(Chuviridae,Mivirus)with the length of 2094 bp to 11580 bp and 4 contigs of Lihan tick virus(Phenuiviridae,Uukuvirus)with the length of 1401 bp to 7080 bp were obtained,respectively.The prevalence rate of Wuhan mivirus and Lihan tick virus was 51.98%and 11.30%,respectively.The identities of gene sequences of both Wuhan mivirus and Lihan tick virus were 94%-100%compared with sequences in the National Center for Biotechnology Information.The phylogenetic analysis indicated that the Wuhan mivirus detected in this study was in the same branch with the Wuhan mivirus of Sichuan isolate TIGMIC-27(NCBI Accession:OP628598)and Zhejiang isolate TIGMIC-45(NCBI Accession:OP628613).In addition,the Lihan tick virus was in the same branch with the Sichuan Lihan tick virus isolate TIGMIC-46(NCBI Accession:ON812358).Conclusions:Both Wuhan mivirus and Lihan tick virus were prevalent in Rhipicephalus microplus in Guizhou Province.More studies are needed to understand the pathogenicity and public health threats of these tick-borne viruses.展开更多
Tick-borne diseases(TBDs) are a major public health concern that has increased in the past three decades. Nevertheless, emerging or reemerging TBDs may be still misdiagnosed. Molecular biology techniques for the scree...Tick-borne diseases(TBDs) are a major public health concern that has increased in the past three decades. Nevertheless, emerging or reemerging TBDs may be still misdiagnosed. Molecular biology techniques for the screening of ticks, use of "Omics" approaches and the incorporation of analytical methods such as mass spectrometry or nuclear magnetic resonance, to the study of ticks and their associated pathogens or potential pathogens are promising tools for a more accurate differential diagnosis of TBDs. However, this huge amount of data needs to be carefully interpreted before being incorporated to the routine of clinical practice. In the meantime, a clinical approach and high level of suspicion keep being essential for the diagnosis and proper handling of TBDs.展开更多
Tick-borne encephalitis is an infection of central nervous system caused by tick-borne encephalitis virus transmitted to humans predominantly by tick bites. During the last few decades the incidence of the disease has...Tick-borne encephalitis is an infection of central nervous system caused by tick-borne encephalitis virus transmitted to humans predominantly by tick bites. During the last few decades the incidence of the disease has been increasing and poses a growing health problem in almost all endemic European and Asian countries. Most cases occur during the highest period of tick activity, in Central Europe mainly from April to November. Tickborne encephalitis is more common in adults than in children. Clinical spectrum of the disease ranges from mild meningitis to severe meningoencephalitis with or without paralysis. Rare clinical manifestations are an abortive form of the disease and a chronic progressive form. A post-encephalitic syndrome, causing long-lasting morbidity that often affects the quality of life develops in up to 50% of patients after acute tick-borne encephalitis. Clinical course and outcome vary by subtype of tick-borne encephalitis virus(the disease caused by the European subtype has milder course and better outcome than the disease caused by Siberian and Far-Easter subtypes), age of patients(increasing age is associated with less favorable outcome), and host genetic factors. Since clinical features and laboratory results of blood and cerebrospinal fluid are nonspecific, the diagnosis must be confirmed by microbiologic findings. The routine laboratory confirmation of the tick-borne encephalitis virus infection is based mainly on the detection of specific Ig M and Ig G antibodies in serum(and cerebrospinal fluid), usually by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. There is no specific antiviral treatment for tick-borne encephalitis. Vaccination can effectively prevent the disease and is indicated for persons living in or visiting tick-borne encephalitis endemic areas.展开更多
Tick-borne encephalitis virus(TBEV) is a pathogenic virus known to cause central nervous system(CNS) diseases in humans, and has become an increasing public health threat nowadays. The rates of TBEV infection in the e...Tick-borne encephalitis virus(TBEV) is a pathogenic virus known to cause central nervous system(CNS) diseases in humans, and has become an increasing public health threat nowadays. The rates of TBEV infection in the endemic countries are increasing. However, there is no effective antiviral against the disease. This underscores the urgent need for tools to study the emergence and pathogenesis of TBEV and to accelerate the development of vaccines and antivirals. In this study, we reported an infectious c DNA clone of TBEV that was isolated in China(the WH2012 strain). A beta-globin intron was inserted in the coding region of nonstructural protein 1(NS1) gene to improve the stability of viral genome in bacteria. In mammalian cells, the inserted intron was excised and spliced precisely, which did not lead to the generation of inserted mutants. High titers of infectious progeny viruses were generated after the transfection of the infectious clone. The cDNA-derived TBEV replicated efficiently, and caused typical cytopathic effect(CPE) and plaques in BHK-21 cells. In addition, the CPE and growth curve of cDNA-derived virus were similar to that of its parental isolate in cells. Together, we have constructed the first infectious TBEV cDNA clone in China, and the clone can be used to investigate the genetic determinants of TBEV virulence and disease pathogenesis, and to develop countermeasures against the virus.展开更多
Ticks are important vectors for the transmission of pathogens including viruses.The viruses carried by ticks also known as tick-borne viruses(TBVs),contain a large group of viruses with diverse genetic properties and ...Ticks are important vectors for the transmission of pathogens including viruses.The viruses carried by ticks also known as tick-borne viruses(TBVs),contain a large group of viruses with diverse genetic properties and are concluded in two orders,nine families,and at least 12 genera.Some members of the TBVs are notorious agents causing severe diseases with high mortality rates in humans and livestock,while some others may pose risks to public health that are still unclear to us.Herein,we review the current knowledge of TBVs with emphases on the history of virus isolation and identification,tick vectors,and potential pathogenicity to humans and animals,including assigned species as well as the recently discovered and unassigned species.All these will promote our understanding of the diversity of TBVs,and will facilitate the further investigation of TBVs in association with both ticks and vertebrate hosts.展开更多
Tick-borne encephalitis virus(TBEV)is an important tick-borne pathogen that poses as a serious public health concern.The coverage and immunogenicity of the currently available vaccines against TBEV are relatively low;...Tick-borne encephalitis virus(TBEV)is an important tick-borne pathogen that poses as a serious public health concern.The coverage and immunogenicity of the currently available vaccines against TBEV are relatively low;therefore,it is crucial to develop novel and effective vaccines against TBEV.The present study describes a novel strategy for the assembly of virus-like particles(VLPs)by co-expressing the structural(core/prM/E)and non-structural(NS2B/NS3Pro)proteins of TBEV.The efficacy of the VLPs was subsequently evaluated in C57BL/6 mice,and the resultant IgG serum could neutralize both Far-Eastern and European subtypes of TBEV.These findings indicated that the VLP-based vaccine elicited the production of cross-subtype reactive antibodies.The VLPs provided protection to mice lacking the type I interferon receptor(IFNAR^(-/-))against lethal TBEV challenge,with undetectable viral load in brain and intestinal tissues.Furthermore,the group that received the VLP vaccine did not exhibit significant pathological changes and the inflammatory factors were significantly suppressed compared to the control group.Immunization with the VLP vaccine induced the production of multiple-cytokine-producing antiviral CD4+T cells in vivo,including TNF-α^(+),IL-2^(+),and IFN-γ^(+)T cells.Altogether,the findings suggest that noninfectious VLPs can serve as a potentially safe and effective vaccine candidate against diverse subtypes of TBEV.展开更多
In Scandinavia, tick-borne infections affecting humans include Lyme borreliosis (LB), tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) and human granulocytic anaplasmosis (HGA). Each of these infections can present with unspecific sympt...In Scandinavia, tick-borne infections affecting humans include Lyme borreliosis (LB), tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) and human granulocytic anaplasmosis (HGA). Each of these infections can present with unspecific symptoms. In this prospective clinical study, we recruited patients based on two independent inclusion criteria;1) patients with unspecific symptoms, i.e. fever (≥38.0℃) or a history of feverishness and/or any combination of headache, myalgia or arthralgia and 2) patients with erythema migrans (EM), following an observed tick bite or tick exposure within one month prior to onset of symptoms. A total of 206 patients fulfilled the study. Among these, we could identify 186 cases of LB (174 with EM), 18 confirmed and two probable cases of HGA and two cases of TBE. Thirteen of the HGA cases presented without fever. Furthermore, 22 of the EM patients had a sub-clinical co-infection with Anaplasma phagocytophilum, based on serology. Both TBE cases had co-infections, one with Borrelia burgdorferi and one with Anaplasma phagocytophilum. We conclude that it is important to consider several causative agents and possible co-infections in the clinical management of infectious diseases where ticks may be suspected as vectors.展开更多
Background and Objective: Tick-borne hemoparasitic illnesses pose a serious threat to the well-being and productivity of cattle. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence of tick-borne hemoparasites in Cameroon, ...Background and Objective: Tick-borne hemoparasitic illnesses pose a serious threat to the well-being and productivity of cattle. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence of tick-borne hemoparasites in Cameroon, with a specific focus on the Noun and Nde Divisions of the West Region. Methodology: A total of 423 cattle from 10 villages in both divisions were included in the study. Blood smears were prepared and subjected to microscopic screening for Babesia and Anaplasma parasites. Results: The prevalence of Anaplasma was found to be 23.4%, while Babesia exhibited a seroprevalence of 17.3%. Samples from Institute of Agricultural Research for Development (IRAD) and Koupa Ngangnou demonstrated significantly higher prevalence rates, potentially influenced by climate variations affecting tick populations. Additionally, 17.3% of the animals exhibited low hematocrit levels, indicative of anemia. No significant associations were observed between the presence of hemoparasite infection and cattle characteristics. Conclusion: This study provides fundamental data on the extensive distribution and impact of tick-borne hemoparasites in a significant cattle-producing region of Cameroon.展开更多
The dangerous Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever virus(CCHFV),an encapsulated negative-sense RNA virus of the family Nairoviridae,is transmitted from person to person via ticks.With a case fatality rate between 10%to 40%...The dangerous Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever virus(CCHFV),an encapsulated negative-sense RNA virus of the family Nairoviridae,is transmitted from person to person via ticks.With a case fatality rate between 10%to 40%,the most common ways that the disease may spread to humans are via tick bites or coming into touch with infected animals'blood or tissues.Furthermore,the transfer of bodily fluids between individuals is another potential route of infection.There is a wide range of symptoms experienced by patients throughout each stage,from myalgia and fever to extreme bruising and excess bleeding.Tick management measures include minimising the spread of ticks from one species to another and from people to animals via the use of protective clothing,repellents,and proper animal handling.In order to prevent the spread of illness,healthcare workers must adhere to stringent protocols.Despite the lack of an authorised vaccine,the main components of treatment now consist of preventative measures and supportive care,which may include the antiviral medicine ribavirin.We still don't know very much about the virus's mechanisms,even though advances in molecular virology and animal models have improved our understanding of the pathogenesis of CCHFV.A critical need for vaccination that is both safe and effective,as well as for quick diagnosis and efficient treatments to lessen the disease's impact in areas where it is most prevalent.Important steps towards lowering Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever mortality and morbidity rates were to anticipatethe future availability of immunoglobulin products.展开更多
Reductive soil disinfestation(RSD)is commonly employed for soil remediation in greenhouse cultivation.However,its influence on antibiotic resistance genes(ARGs)in soil remains uncertain.This study investigated the dyn...Reductive soil disinfestation(RSD)is commonly employed for soil remediation in greenhouse cultivation.However,its influence on antibiotic resistance genes(ARGs)in soil remains uncertain.This study investigated the dynamic changes in soil communities,potential bacterial pathogens,and ARG profiles under various organicmaterial treatments during RSD,including distillers’grains,potato peel,peanut vine,and peanut vine combined with charcoal.Results revealed that applying diverse organic materials in RSD significantly altered bacterial community composition and diminished the relative abundance of potential bacterial pathogens(P<0.05).The relative abundance of high-risk ARGs decreased by 10.7%-30.6%after RSD treatments,the main decreased ARG subtypeswere AAC(3)_Via,dfrA1,ErmB,lnuB,aadA.Actinobacteria was the primary host of ARGs and was suppressed by RSD.Soil physicochemical properties,such as total nitrogen,soil pH,total carbon,were crucial factors affecting ARG profiles.Our findings demonstrated that RSD treatment inhibited pathogenic bacteria and could be an option for reducing high-risk ARG proliferation in soil.展开更多
The Salmonella pathogenicity islands(SPIs) play crucial roles in the progression of Salmonella infection. In this study, we constructed an improved λ Red homologous recombination system to prepare single and triple d...The Salmonella pathogenicity islands(SPIs) play crucial roles in the progression of Salmonella infection. In this study, we constructed an improved λ Red homologous recombination system to prepare single and triple deletion mutants of 3 prominent SPIs(SPI-1, 2, and 3), aiming at the impact of deletion on morphology, carbon source metabolism, adhesion and invasion capacity, in vivo colonization, and immune efficacy in chicks. Our examination revealed that the surface of the single deletion mutants(SM6ΔSPI1, ΔSPI2, and ΔSPI3) exhibited a more rugged texture and appeared to be enveloped in a layer of transparent colloid, whereas the morphology of the triple deletion mutant(SM6ΔSPI1&2&3) remained unaltered when compared to the parent strain. The carbon metabolic spectrum of the SPI mutants underwent profound alterations, with a notable and statistically significant modification observed in 30 out of 95 carbon sources, primarily carbohydrates(17 out of 30). Furthermore, the adhesion capacity of the 4 mutants to Caco-2 cells was significantly reduced when compared to that of the parent strain. Moreover,the invasion capacity of mutants SM6ΔSPI1 and SM6ΔSPI1&2&3 exhibited a substantial decrease, while it was enhanced to varying degrees for SM6ΔSPI3 and SM6ΔSPI2. Importantly, none of the 4 mutants induced any clinical symptoms in the chicks. However, they did transiently colonize the spleen and liver. Notably, the SM6ΔSPI1&2&3mutant was rapidly cleared from both the spleen and liver within 8 days post-infection and no notable pathological changes were observed in the organs. Additionally, when challenged, the mutants immunized groups displayed a significant increase in antibody levels and alterations in the CD3+CD4+ and CD3+CD8+ subpopulations, and the levels of IL-4 and IFN-γ cytokines in the SM6ΔSPI1&2&3 immunized chicken serum surpassed those of other groups.In summary, the successful construction of the 4 SPI mutants lays the groundwork for further exploration into the pathogenic(including metabolic) mechanisms of SPIs and the development of safe and effective live attenuated Salmonella vaccines or carriers.展开更多
Coffee wilt represents one of the most devastating diseases of Arabica coffee(Coffea arabica L.)plantations in the primary coffee-producing regions.In this study,coffee trees manifesting wilt symptoms accompanied by t...Coffee wilt represents one of the most devastating diseases of Arabica coffee(Coffea arabica L.)plantations in the primary coffee-producing regions.In this study,coffee trees manifesting wilt symptoms accompanied by the defoliation and drying of the whole tree were observed in the Jazan,El Baha,Najran,and Asir regions.The purpose of this investigation was to isolate and identify the Fusarium species recovered from symptomatic coffee trees.The developed fungi were initially characterized based on their morphological features followed by molecular phylogenetic multi-locus analysis of the combined sequences of ITS,TEF1-α,RPB2,and CaM.Twenty-five isolates were recovered from 28 samples.All fungal isolates were categorized morphologically under the genus Fusarium.Phylogenetic analysis positioned all the representative 15 isolates into one cluster grouping together with Neocosmospora falciformis(formerly F.falciforme)confirming their taxonomic position.Pathogenicity tests of the N.falciformis isolates were subsequently conducted on coffee seedlings,and the results revealed that all isolates induced wilt symptoms resembling those recorded in the field,and the incidence was 100%.The fungicide sensitivity test of seven investigated fungicides revealed that Maxim XL^(®) followed by Moncut^(®) exhibited the highest inhibitory effect against N.falciformis KSA 24-14,reaching 93.33%and 91.67%,respectively.To our knowledge,N.falciformis is a new causal pathogen of coffee wilt in Saudi Arabia.Remarkably,these results offer important insights for devising effective approaches to monitor and control such diseases.展开更多
Background:New variants of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2(SARS-CoV-2)continue to drive global epidemics and pose significant health risks.The pathogenicity of these variants evolves under immune press...Background:New variants of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2(SARS-CoV-2)continue to drive global epidemics and pose significant health risks.The pathogenicity of these variants evolves under immune pressure and host factors.Understanding these changes is crucial for epidemic control and variant research.Methods:Human angiotensin-converting enzyme 2(hACE2)transgenic mice were in-tranasally challenged with the original strain WH-09 and the variants Delta,Beta,and Omicron BA.1,while BALB/c mice were challenged with Omicron subvariants BA.5,BF.7,and XBB.1.To compare the pathogenicity differences among variants,we con-ducted a comprehensive analysis that included clinical symptom observation,meas-urement of viral loads in the trachea and lungs,evaluation of pulmonary pathology,analysis of immune cell infiltration,and quantification of cytokine levels.Results:In hACE2 mice,the Beta variant caused significant weight loss,severe lung inflammation,increased inflammatory and chemotactic factor secretion,greater mac-rophage and neutrophil infiltration in the lungs,and higher viral loads with prolonged shedding duration.In contrast,BA.1 showed a significant reduction in pathogenicity.The BA.5,BF.7,and XBB.1 variants were less pathogenic than the WH-09,Beta,and Delta variants when infected in BALB/c mice.This was evidenced by reduced weight loss,diminished pulmonary pathology,decreased secretion of inflammatory factors and chemokines,reduced macrophage and neutrophil infiltration,as well as lower viral loads in both the trachea and lungs.Conclusion:In hACE2 mice,the Omicron variant demonstrated the lowest pathogenic-ity,while the Beta variant exhibited the highest.Pathogenicity of the Delta variant was comparable to the original WH-09 strain.Among BALB/c mice,Omicron subvari-ants BA.5,BF.7,and XBB.1 showed no statistically significant differences in virulence.展开更多
基金This study was funded by the national key research and development programs of China(No.2017YFD0501803 and 2016YFD0501100)the Young Talents Program of the Chinese Academy of Inspection and Quarantine.
文摘On August 14th,2018,a Beijing resident living in Xicheng District found a female H.longicornis tick attached to the skin at the front of his upper shin.On examination,the patient was afebrile and appeared well.The species of the tick was identified through morphological characteristics and phylogenetic analysis based on cytochrome C oxidase subunit I.This H.longicornis tick was screened for tick-borne pathogens such as viruses,bacteria and parasites.RNA pathogens were screened by PCR and sequencing,while DNA pathogens were screened by metagenomic analyses.It was found that the tick was positive for the DNA sequences of zoonotic and animal pathogens such as A phagocytophilum,Ehrlichia minasensis and C.burnetii.Considering the good health condition of the patient,we hypothesized that the pathogens originated from the tick specimen itself rather than host blood meal.For the first time,our study reveals the possible risk of transmission of tick-borne pathogens to human beings through tick bit in downtown Beijing.Further research is needed to screen for tick-borne pathogens among unfed ticks collected from central Beijing.
基金The National Science and Technology Major Project of China[No.2018ZX10101002-002]the National Natural Science Foundation of China[grants 81702016]the National Science and Technology Major Project of China[2018ZX10712001-006-002 and 2018ZX10305409-003-005]。
文摘Pathogens like bacteria and protozoa,which affect human and animal health worldwide,can be transmitted by vectors like ticks.To investigate the epidemiology and genetic diversity of bacteria and protozoans carried by ticks in Chengmai county of Hainan province,China,285 adult hard ticks belonging to two species[Rhipicephalus sanguineus(sensu lato):183,64.21%and Rhipicephalus microplus:102,35.79%]from dogs,cattle,and goats were collected.Microbial families were identified in these ticks by amplifying the 18 S r RNA,16 S r RNA(rrs),citrate synthase(glt A),and heat shock protein(gro EL)genes.Our data revealed the presence of four recognized species and two Candidatus spp.of Anaplasmataceae and Coxiellaceae.In sum,these data reveal an extensive diversity of Anaplasmataceae bacteria,Coxiellaceae bacteria,Babesiidae,and Hepatozoidae in ticks from Hainan Island,highlighting the need to understand the tickborne pathogen infection in local animals and humans.
文摘Objective: To determine the prevalence of zoonotic tick-borne bacteria in feeding ticks removed from hunted wild animals. Methods: PCR was executed on DNA extracted from 77 tick pools to detect Anaplasma phagocytophilum, Bartonella spp., Borrelia burgdorferi sensu lato, Coxiella burnetii and Rickettsia spp. Results: A total of 432 ticks were collected: 30(6.94%) Haemaphysalis punctata, 72(16.7%) Dermacentor marginatus and 330(76.38%) Ixodes ricinus. For each animal one or two pools of 3 ticks of the same species was constituted. Seventy-seven tick pools were examined by PCR: 58(75.32%) resulted infected and among them 14(18.18%) showed co-infections. In particular, 29(37.66%) pools were positive for Bartonella spp., 23(29.87%) for Anaplasma phagocytophilum, 16(20.78%) for Rickettsia spp., and 5(6.49%) for Borrelia burgdorferi s.l. All samples were negative for Coxiella burnetii. Conclusions: The results demonstrate the presence of several zoonotic tick-borne pathogens in the studied area, and underline the risk of exposure to infections for hunters not only during the outdoor activity, but also when they manipulate hunted animals infested by infected ticks.
文摘Objective:Different studies have been performed on the prevalence of tick-borne pathogens in different areas of Iran;however,as far as our knowledge,there is no regional meta-analysis available for consideration and estimation of tick species infected with different pathogens in Iran.Methods:In this review,among different databases,a total of 95 publications were included,and the infection of different tick species to different tick-borne pathogens was determined;furthermore,presence of pathogens(with 95%confidence intervals)in tick vectors was calculated separately for each province,using Comprehensive Meta-Analysis version 2(Biostat,USA).Results:Totally,among all 95 studies,5673 out of 33521 investigated ticks were positive according to different detection methods.Overall estimated presence of pathogens in tick vectors in Iran was 8.6%(95%CI 7.0%-10.6%,P<0.001).Of all 46 species of ticks in 10 genera in Iran,28 species in 9 genera,including Alveonasus,Argas,Boophilus,Dermacentor,Haemaphysalis,Hyalomma,Ixodes,Ornithodoros,and Rhipicephalus were infected with at least 20 pathogens in 10 genera including Aegyptianella,Anaplasma,Babesia,Borrelia,Brucella,Orthonairovirus[CrimeanCongo hemorrhagic fever virus(CCHFV)],Coxiella,Ehrlichia,Rickettsia and Theileria in 26 provinces of Iran.The presence of pathogens in ticks collected in western Iran was more than other regions.Hyalomma anatolicum(20.35%),Rhipicephalus sanguineus(15.00%),and Rhipicephalus bursa(14.08%)were the most prevalent infected ticks for different pathogens.In addition,most literatures were related to CCHFV and Theileria/Babesia spp.Conclusions:Public health and veterinary professionals should be aware of diagnosing possible diseases or outbreaks in vertebrates.
基金Supported by the Clinical Research Special Project in Health Profession of Shanghai(202240331)The Sixth Round of Three-Year Public Health Action Plan of Shanghai(No.GWⅥ-11.1-13).
文摘Ticks function as critical vectors for a wide range of pathogens that pose significant risks to both human and animal health.In recent years,the number and diversity of tick-borne pathogens have increased at an unprecedented rate,elevating tick-borne diseases(TBDs)to a major public health concern on a global scale.TBDs present a dual challenge,not only affecting human populations but also causing substantial economic losses in livestock industries across the world.The geographic distribution of many TBDs is shifting,with emerging,re-emerging,and resurging cases influenced by environmental factors such as deforestation and climate change.In China,rapid urbanization and concurrent improvements in urban ecological conditions have contributed to the expansion of tick habitats and increased human exposure to tick populations.Recent research warns that ticks and their associated pathogens present significant risks in urban environments,particularly in locations such as parks,playgrounds,and zoos.Despite these threats,public awareness of tick-borne diseases remains critically low.This review consolidates current knowledge on tick species and tick-borne pathogens found in urban parks and proposes strategic control measures to inform effective tick management policies both in China and globally.
基金funded by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(U2002219)The datasets generated or analyzed during the current study are available from the corresponding author on reasonable requestAll the nucleotide sequences obtained in this study are available in the GenBank of National Center for Biotechnology Information with accession numbers OR805110-OR805127,OR792783-OR792797,OR793990-OR793998,and OR813910-OR813915.
文摘Recently,there has been a continuous stream of reports on emerging tick-borne pathogens affecting humans.Qinghai Province,located in the northweastern region,is one of China’s major pastoral areas,providing a suitable environment for ticks''survival and transmitting tick-borne pathogens.Here,we collected 560 free-living and parasitic ticks from 11 locations in Qinghai Province using the flag-drag method or tweezers,identifying them as belonging to 4 species of ticks.The overall positivity rate for tick-borne pathogens was 51.61%,comprisingRickettsia(34.64%),Anaplasma(5.00%),Ehrlichia(2.14%),Borrelia burgdorferi sensu lato(BBSL)(7.50%),Babesia(0.18%),andTheileria(5.89%).Sequencing revealed the presence of 7 species ofRickettsia,4 species ofAnaplasma,2 species ofEhrlichia,2 species of BBSL,1 species ofBabesia,and 3 species ofTheileria.Among the ticks,6.43%were co-infected with 2 pathogens,while 0.36%exhibited co-infection with 3 pathogens.Significant correlations(P<0.05)were observed between the prevalence of tick-borne pathogens and factors including tick species,sex,developmental stages,parasitic status,and blood-feeding status.The results highlight the diverse distribution of tick-borne pathogens in Qinghai Province,posing a significant threat to both local animal husbandry and human health.It underscores the need to enhance systematic monitoring of tick-borne pathogens in the local population and livestock.
基金This study was funded by the Natural Science Foundation of China(81621005,81472005,81473023).
文摘Background:A wide variety of pathogens could be maintained and transmitted by Haemaphysalis longicornis.The aim of this study is to systematically examine the variety of pathogens carried by Haemaphysalis longicornis,an importnatn vector,in tick-borne diseases epidemic area,and to estimate the risk of human infection imposed by tick bites.Methods:Adult questing ticks were collected in Xinyang,central China.Genomic DNA and RNA were extracted from 144 H.longicornis ticks individually,and sequenced respectively as the templates for high-throughput sequencing.Clean reads were compared against the database of NCBI nucleotide collection and specific PCR was performed to confirm the presence of pathogen.Phylogenetic analysis was performed to explore the evolutionary status of pathogens.Results:The assignment of reads to taxa based on BLASTN results revealed the existence of several potential pathogens,including Anaplasma spp.,Rickettsia spp.,Babesia sp.,as well as severe fever with thrombocytopenia syndrome bunyavirus(SFTSV).Comfirmantory PCR assays revealed the existence of Anaplasma bovis(13/144,9.03%),Anaplasma centrale(2/144,1.39%),Rickettsia heilongjiangensis(3/144,2.08%),Rickettsia sp.LON-13(1/144,0.69%),Rickettsia raoultii(5/144,3.47%),Babesia sp.(1/144,0.69%).SFTSV accounted for the highest detected pathogen with a positive rate of 18.75%(27/144).Three of the ticks(2.08%)were co-infected with SFTSV and A.bovis.Conclusion:Our study provided a broadened list of microorganism that harbored by H.longicornis.In previously unrecognized endemic regions,prokaryotic and eukaryotic infection including Anaplasma spp.,Rickettsiae spp.,and Babesia spp.should be considered,along with the well-known SFTSV for patients with tick bites history.A novel Babesia species was identified in local natural foci,which needs further investigation in the future.
基金supported by grants from the National Natural Science Foundation of China(Grant No.82160633 and 81760605)the GZPH-NSFC-2021-17,the Guizhou Provincial Basic Research Program(Natural Science MS[2025](No.497)+1 种基金the Foundation of State Key Laboratory of Pathogen and Biosecurity of China(Grant No.SKLPBS2442)the High-level and Innovative Talents of Guizhou Province(QKH-GCC[2022]033-1).
文摘Objective:To uncover the characteristics of tick-borne viruses in Guizhou Province.Methods:A total of 414 Rhipicephalus microplus were collected from 5 counties in Guizhou Province,China from August 2022 to October 2023.A group of 12 ticks from each study sites was sequenced by next generation sequencing.Results:8 contigs of Wuhan mivirus(Chuviridae,Mivirus)with the length of 2094 bp to 11580 bp and 4 contigs of Lihan tick virus(Phenuiviridae,Uukuvirus)with the length of 1401 bp to 7080 bp were obtained,respectively.The prevalence rate of Wuhan mivirus and Lihan tick virus was 51.98%and 11.30%,respectively.The identities of gene sequences of both Wuhan mivirus and Lihan tick virus were 94%-100%compared with sequences in the National Center for Biotechnology Information.The phylogenetic analysis indicated that the Wuhan mivirus detected in this study was in the same branch with the Wuhan mivirus of Sichuan isolate TIGMIC-27(NCBI Accession:OP628598)and Zhejiang isolate TIGMIC-45(NCBI Accession:OP628613).In addition,the Lihan tick virus was in the same branch with the Sichuan Lihan tick virus isolate TIGMIC-46(NCBI Accession:ON812358).Conclusions:Both Wuhan mivirus and Lihan tick virus were prevalent in Rhipicephalus microplus in Guizhou Province.More studies are needed to understand the pathogenicity and public health threats of these tick-borne viruses.
文摘Tick-borne diseases(TBDs) are a major public health concern that has increased in the past three decades. Nevertheless, emerging or reemerging TBDs may be still misdiagnosed. Molecular biology techniques for the screening of ticks, use of "Omics" approaches and the incorporation of analytical methods such as mass spectrometry or nuclear magnetic resonance, to the study of ticks and their associated pathogens or potential pathogens are promising tools for a more accurate differential diagnosis of TBDs. However, this huge amount of data needs to be carefully interpreted before being incorporated to the routine of clinical practice. In the meantime, a clinical approach and high level of suspicion keep being essential for the diagnosis and proper handling of TBDs.
文摘Tick-borne encephalitis is an infection of central nervous system caused by tick-borne encephalitis virus transmitted to humans predominantly by tick bites. During the last few decades the incidence of the disease has been increasing and poses a growing health problem in almost all endemic European and Asian countries. Most cases occur during the highest period of tick activity, in Central Europe mainly from April to November. Tickborne encephalitis is more common in adults than in children. Clinical spectrum of the disease ranges from mild meningitis to severe meningoencephalitis with or without paralysis. Rare clinical manifestations are an abortive form of the disease and a chronic progressive form. A post-encephalitic syndrome, causing long-lasting morbidity that often affects the quality of life develops in up to 50% of patients after acute tick-borne encephalitis. Clinical course and outcome vary by subtype of tick-borne encephalitis virus(the disease caused by the European subtype has milder course and better outcome than the disease caused by Siberian and Far-Easter subtypes), age of patients(increasing age is associated with less favorable outcome), and host genetic factors. Since clinical features and laboratory results of blood and cerebrospinal fluid are nonspecific, the diagnosis must be confirmed by microbiologic findings. The routine laboratory confirmation of the tick-borne encephalitis virus infection is based mainly on the detection of specific Ig M and Ig G antibodies in serum(and cerebrospinal fluid), usually by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. There is no specific antiviral treatment for tick-borne encephalitis. Vaccination can effectively prevent the disease and is indicated for persons living in or visiting tick-borne encephalitis endemic areas.
基金This study was supported by grants from the National Key R&D Program of China(2018YFA0507201)。
文摘Tick-borne encephalitis virus(TBEV) is a pathogenic virus known to cause central nervous system(CNS) diseases in humans, and has become an increasing public health threat nowadays. The rates of TBEV infection in the endemic countries are increasing. However, there is no effective antiviral against the disease. This underscores the urgent need for tools to study the emergence and pathogenesis of TBEV and to accelerate the development of vaccines and antivirals. In this study, we reported an infectious c DNA clone of TBEV that was isolated in China(the WH2012 strain). A beta-globin intron was inserted in the coding region of nonstructural protein 1(NS1) gene to improve the stability of viral genome in bacteria. In mammalian cells, the inserted intron was excised and spliced precisely, which did not lead to the generation of inserted mutants. High titers of infectious progeny viruses were generated after the transfection of the infectious clone. The cDNA-derived TBEV replicated efficiently, and caused typical cytopathic effect(CPE) and plaques in BHK-21 cells. In addition, the CPE and growth curve of cDNA-derived virus were similar to that of its parental isolate in cells. Together, we have constructed the first infectious TBEV cDNA clone in China, and the clone can be used to investigate the genetic determinants of TBEV virulence and disease pathogenesis, and to develop countermeasures against the virus.
基金supported by Science and Technology Basic Work Program (2013FY113500) from the Ministry of Science and Technology of Chinathe European Union’s Horizon 2020 Research and Innovation Programme (No.653316)+1 种基金the Strategic Bio-resource Service Network Plan and Building the Biogenetic Resource Preserving Capacity Program from the Chinese Academy of Sciences (ZSSB-002)the Hubei Provincial program of scientific and technological condition platform establishment (2017BEC003)
文摘Ticks are important vectors for the transmission of pathogens including viruses.The viruses carried by ticks also known as tick-borne viruses(TBVs),contain a large group of viruses with diverse genetic properties and are concluded in two orders,nine families,and at least 12 genera.Some members of the TBVs are notorious agents causing severe diseases with high mortality rates in humans and livestock,while some others may pose risks to public health that are still unclear to us.Herein,we review the current knowledge of TBVs with emphases on the history of virus isolation and identification,tick vectors,and potential pathogenicity to humans and animals,including assigned species as well as the recently discovered and unassigned species.All these will promote our understanding of the diversity of TBVs,and will facilitate the further investigation of TBVs in association with both ticks and vertebrate hosts.
基金This work was supported by grants from the National Key Research and Development Program of China(grant number:2018YFA0507201 to X.W.C.)the National Science Foundation of China(grant number:32000111 to Q.Y.)the China Postdoctoral Science Foundation(grant number:2020T130021ZX to Q.Y.and grant number:2020M672580 to Q.Y.).
文摘Tick-borne encephalitis virus(TBEV)is an important tick-borne pathogen that poses as a serious public health concern.The coverage and immunogenicity of the currently available vaccines against TBEV are relatively low;therefore,it is crucial to develop novel and effective vaccines against TBEV.The present study describes a novel strategy for the assembly of virus-like particles(VLPs)by co-expressing the structural(core/prM/E)and non-structural(NS2B/NS3Pro)proteins of TBEV.The efficacy of the VLPs was subsequently evaluated in C57BL/6 mice,and the resultant IgG serum could neutralize both Far-Eastern and European subtypes of TBEV.These findings indicated that the VLP-based vaccine elicited the production of cross-subtype reactive antibodies.The VLPs provided protection to mice lacking the type I interferon receptor(IFNAR^(-/-))against lethal TBEV challenge,with undetectable viral load in brain and intestinal tissues.Furthermore,the group that received the VLP vaccine did not exhibit significant pathological changes and the inflammatory factors were significantly suppressed compared to the control group.Immunization with the VLP vaccine induced the production of multiple-cytokine-producing antiviral CD4+T cells in vivo,including TNF-α^(+),IL-2^(+),and IFN-γ^(+)T cells.Altogether,the findings suggest that noninfectious VLPs can serve as a potentially safe and effective vaccine candidate against diverse subtypes of TBEV.
基金FORSS—The Health Research Council in the Southeast of Sweden(Grant No 2000-320, 2001-332, 2002-335)research funds from the Ostergotland County Council (Grant No 2000-027, 2001-015, 2002-031)the Ostergotland County Council
文摘In Scandinavia, tick-borne infections affecting humans include Lyme borreliosis (LB), tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) and human granulocytic anaplasmosis (HGA). Each of these infections can present with unspecific symptoms. In this prospective clinical study, we recruited patients based on two independent inclusion criteria;1) patients with unspecific symptoms, i.e. fever (≥38.0℃) or a history of feverishness and/or any combination of headache, myalgia or arthralgia and 2) patients with erythema migrans (EM), following an observed tick bite or tick exposure within one month prior to onset of symptoms. A total of 206 patients fulfilled the study. Among these, we could identify 186 cases of LB (174 with EM), 18 confirmed and two probable cases of HGA and two cases of TBE. Thirteen of the HGA cases presented without fever. Furthermore, 22 of the EM patients had a sub-clinical co-infection with Anaplasma phagocytophilum, based on serology. Both TBE cases had co-infections, one with Borrelia burgdorferi and one with Anaplasma phagocytophilum. We conclude that it is important to consider several causative agents and possible co-infections in the clinical management of infectious diseases where ticks may be suspected as vectors.
文摘Background and Objective: Tick-borne hemoparasitic illnesses pose a serious threat to the well-being and productivity of cattle. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence of tick-borne hemoparasites in Cameroon, with a specific focus on the Noun and Nde Divisions of the West Region. Methodology: A total of 423 cattle from 10 villages in both divisions were included in the study. Blood smears were prepared and subjected to microscopic screening for Babesia and Anaplasma parasites. Results: The prevalence of Anaplasma was found to be 23.4%, while Babesia exhibited a seroprevalence of 17.3%. Samples from Institute of Agricultural Research for Development (IRAD) and Koupa Ngangnou demonstrated significantly higher prevalence rates, potentially influenced by climate variations affecting tick populations. Additionally, 17.3% of the animals exhibited low hematocrit levels, indicative of anemia. No significant associations were observed between the presence of hemoparasite infection and cattle characteristics. Conclusion: This study provides fundamental data on the extensive distribution and impact of tick-borne hemoparasites in a significant cattle-producing region of Cameroon.
文摘The dangerous Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever virus(CCHFV),an encapsulated negative-sense RNA virus of the family Nairoviridae,is transmitted from person to person via ticks.With a case fatality rate between 10%to 40%,the most common ways that the disease may spread to humans are via tick bites or coming into touch with infected animals'blood or tissues.Furthermore,the transfer of bodily fluids between individuals is another potential route of infection.There is a wide range of symptoms experienced by patients throughout each stage,from myalgia and fever to extreme bruising and excess bleeding.Tick management measures include minimising the spread of ticks from one species to another and from people to animals via the use of protective clothing,repellents,and proper animal handling.In order to prevent the spread of illness,healthcare workers must adhere to stringent protocols.Despite the lack of an authorised vaccine,the main components of treatment now consist of preventative measures and supportive care,which may include the antiviral medicine ribavirin.We still don't know very much about the virus's mechanisms,even though advances in molecular virology and animal models have improved our understanding of the pathogenesis of CCHFV.A critical need for vaccination that is both safe and effective,as well as for quick diagnosis and efficient treatments to lessen the disease's impact in areas where it is most prevalent.Important steps towards lowering Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever mortality and morbidity rates were to anticipatethe future availability of immunoglobulin products.
基金supported by the Key Research and Development Program of Shandong Province,China(No 2021CXGC010803)Pan’an County Chinese Medicine Industry Project(No.PZYF202103).
文摘Reductive soil disinfestation(RSD)is commonly employed for soil remediation in greenhouse cultivation.However,its influence on antibiotic resistance genes(ARGs)in soil remains uncertain.This study investigated the dynamic changes in soil communities,potential bacterial pathogens,and ARG profiles under various organicmaterial treatments during RSD,including distillers’grains,potato peel,peanut vine,and peanut vine combined with charcoal.Results revealed that applying diverse organic materials in RSD significantly altered bacterial community composition and diminished the relative abundance of potential bacterial pathogens(P<0.05).The relative abundance of high-risk ARGs decreased by 10.7%-30.6%after RSD treatments,the main decreased ARG subtypeswere AAC(3)_Via,dfrA1,ErmB,lnuB,aadA.Actinobacteria was the primary host of ARGs and was suppressed by RSD.Soil physicochemical properties,such as total nitrogen,soil pH,total carbon,were crucial factors affecting ARG profiles.Our findings demonstrated that RSD treatment inhibited pathogenic bacteria and could be an option for reducing high-risk ARG proliferation in soil.
基金supported by the National KeyR&DProgramof China(2022YFF0710500)the National Natural Science Foundation of China(32172853 and 32373013)the Central Public-interest Scientific Institution Basal Research Fund,China(1610302022001).
文摘The Salmonella pathogenicity islands(SPIs) play crucial roles in the progression of Salmonella infection. In this study, we constructed an improved λ Red homologous recombination system to prepare single and triple deletion mutants of 3 prominent SPIs(SPI-1, 2, and 3), aiming at the impact of deletion on morphology, carbon source metabolism, adhesion and invasion capacity, in vivo colonization, and immune efficacy in chicks. Our examination revealed that the surface of the single deletion mutants(SM6ΔSPI1, ΔSPI2, and ΔSPI3) exhibited a more rugged texture and appeared to be enveloped in a layer of transparent colloid, whereas the morphology of the triple deletion mutant(SM6ΔSPI1&2&3) remained unaltered when compared to the parent strain. The carbon metabolic spectrum of the SPI mutants underwent profound alterations, with a notable and statistically significant modification observed in 30 out of 95 carbon sources, primarily carbohydrates(17 out of 30). Furthermore, the adhesion capacity of the 4 mutants to Caco-2 cells was significantly reduced when compared to that of the parent strain. Moreover,the invasion capacity of mutants SM6ΔSPI1 and SM6ΔSPI1&2&3 exhibited a substantial decrease, while it was enhanced to varying degrees for SM6ΔSPI3 and SM6ΔSPI2. Importantly, none of the 4 mutants induced any clinical symptoms in the chicks. However, they did transiently colonize the spleen and liver. Notably, the SM6ΔSPI1&2&3mutant was rapidly cleared from both the spleen and liver within 8 days post-infection and no notable pathological changes were observed in the organs. Additionally, when challenged, the mutants immunized groups displayed a significant increase in antibody levels and alterations in the CD3+CD4+ and CD3+CD8+ subpopulations, and the levels of IL-4 and IFN-γ cytokines in the SM6ΔSPI1&2&3 immunized chicken serum surpassed those of other groups.In summary, the successful construction of the 4 SPI mutants lays the groundwork for further exploration into the pathogenic(including metabolic) mechanisms of SPIs and the development of safe and effective live attenuated Salmonella vaccines or carriers.
基金funded by the Deanship of Scientific Research,Vice Presidency for Graduate Studies and Scientific Research,King Faisal University,Saudi Arabia,for supporting this work for work through grant number KFU242134.
文摘Coffee wilt represents one of the most devastating diseases of Arabica coffee(Coffea arabica L.)plantations in the primary coffee-producing regions.In this study,coffee trees manifesting wilt symptoms accompanied by the defoliation and drying of the whole tree were observed in the Jazan,El Baha,Najran,and Asir regions.The purpose of this investigation was to isolate and identify the Fusarium species recovered from symptomatic coffee trees.The developed fungi were initially characterized based on their morphological features followed by molecular phylogenetic multi-locus analysis of the combined sequences of ITS,TEF1-α,RPB2,and CaM.Twenty-five isolates were recovered from 28 samples.All fungal isolates were categorized morphologically under the genus Fusarium.Phylogenetic analysis positioned all the representative 15 isolates into one cluster grouping together with Neocosmospora falciformis(formerly F.falciforme)confirming their taxonomic position.Pathogenicity tests of the N.falciformis isolates were subsequently conducted on coffee seedlings,and the results revealed that all isolates induced wilt symptoms resembling those recorded in the field,and the incidence was 100%.The fungicide sensitivity test of seven investigated fungicides revealed that Maxim XL^(®) followed by Moncut^(®) exhibited the highest inhibitory effect against N.falciformis KSA 24-14,reaching 93.33%and 91.67%,respectively.To our knowledge,N.falciformis is a new causal pathogen of coffee wilt in Saudi Arabia.Remarkably,these results offer important insights for devising effective approaches to monitor and control such diseases.
基金National Science and Technology Infrastructure of China,Grant/Award Number:National Pathogen Resource Center-NPRC-32National Key Research and Development Program of China,Grant/Award Number:2023YFF0724800CAMS Innovation Fund for Medical Sciences,Grant/Award Number:2021-I2M-1-035。
文摘Background:New variants of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2(SARS-CoV-2)continue to drive global epidemics and pose significant health risks.The pathogenicity of these variants evolves under immune pressure and host factors.Understanding these changes is crucial for epidemic control and variant research.Methods:Human angiotensin-converting enzyme 2(hACE2)transgenic mice were in-tranasally challenged with the original strain WH-09 and the variants Delta,Beta,and Omicron BA.1,while BALB/c mice were challenged with Omicron subvariants BA.5,BF.7,and XBB.1.To compare the pathogenicity differences among variants,we con-ducted a comprehensive analysis that included clinical symptom observation,meas-urement of viral loads in the trachea and lungs,evaluation of pulmonary pathology,analysis of immune cell infiltration,and quantification of cytokine levels.Results:In hACE2 mice,the Beta variant caused significant weight loss,severe lung inflammation,increased inflammatory and chemotactic factor secretion,greater mac-rophage and neutrophil infiltration in the lungs,and higher viral loads with prolonged shedding duration.In contrast,BA.1 showed a significant reduction in pathogenicity.The BA.5,BF.7,and XBB.1 variants were less pathogenic than the WH-09,Beta,and Delta variants when infected in BALB/c mice.This was evidenced by reduced weight loss,diminished pulmonary pathology,decreased secretion of inflammatory factors and chemokines,reduced macrophage and neutrophil infiltration,as well as lower viral loads in both the trachea and lungs.Conclusion:In hACE2 mice,the Omicron variant demonstrated the lowest pathogenic-ity,while the Beta variant exhibited the highest.Pathogenicity of the Delta variant was comparable to the original WH-09 strain.Among BALB/c mice,Omicron subvari-ants BA.5,BF.7,and XBB.1 showed no statistically significant differences in virulence.
