Ticks and Tick-Borne Pathogens

Abstract submission deadline

31 January 2025

Manuscript submission deadline

31 March 2025

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Topic Information

Dear Colleagues,

The TTP conferences have historically convened leading experts and researchers worldwide, focusing on ticks and tick-borne pathogens. This eleventh edition promises to be no different, offering a platform to showcase groundbreaking research, innovative methodologies, and promising discoveries in various facets of tick biology. These encompass tick physiology, microbiome and genomics, taxonomy and the evolution of ticks and tick-borne pathogens, their ecological and epidemiological aspects, pathogenesis, diagnosis, and strategies for control, including immunity and vaccines.

For more information regarding the TTP11 Conference and opportunities to present your research, please visit https://agropecuaria.cigb.edu.cu/ttp11/ or https://zooparaz.net/ttp11/. Furthermore, we invite you to contribute to a Topic in renowned MDPI journals such as Pathogens, Animals, Vaccines, Veterinary Sciences, Arthropoda and Insects.

This Topic offers researchers the chance to publish enhanced and refined versions of their conference contributions, thus extending the impact of their work far beyond the event itself. This proposal represents a valuable opportunity to advance the dissemination of cutting-edge research and foster collaboration within the tick research community—an essential step towards advancing the field. Moreover, this Topic will be a lasting repository of the collective knowledge and insights shared during TTP11. We eagerly anticipate receiving your contributions.

Dr. Alina Rodriguez-Mallon
Dr. Alejandro Cabezas-Cruz
Topic Editors

Keywords

Participating Journals

Journal Name	Impact Factor	CiteScore	Launched Year	First Decision (median)	APC
Animals animals	2.7	4.9	2011	16.1 Days	CHF 2400	Submit
Arthropoda arthropoda	-	-	2023	15.0 days *	CHF 1000	Submit
Insects insects	2.7	5.1	2010	17 Days	CHF 2600	Submit
Pathogens pathogens	3.3	6.4	2012	16.3 Days	CHF 2200	Submit
Vaccines vaccines	5.2	8.9	2013	17.6 Days	CHF 2700	Submit
Veterinary Sciences vetsci	2.0	2.9	2014	20.9 Days	CHF 2100	Submit

* Median value for all MDPI journals in the first half of 2024.

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Published Papers (21 papers)

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All Animals Arthropoda Insects Pathogens Vaccines Veterinary Sciences

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Open AccessArticle

Mitochondrial Genome Analysis of Babesia ovis (Apicomplexa: Babesiidae) Endemic in Sheep in Türkiye

by Mehmet Can Ulucesme, Munir Aktas and Sezayi Ozubek

Vet. Sci. 2024, 11(11), 554; https://doi.org/10.3390/vetsci11110554 - 10 Nov 2024

Viewed by 1378

Abstract

This study presents the first comprehensive analysis of the mitochondrial genome of Babesia ovis, a significant pathogen in ovine babesiosis in Türkiye. The B. ovis mitochondrial genome is a linear monomeric molecule of 6015 bp with an A + T content of 70.5%, [...] Read more.

This study presents the first comprehensive analysis of the mitochondrial genome of Babesia ovis, a significant pathogen in ovine babesiosis in Türkiye. The B. ovis mitochondrial genome is a linear monomeric molecule of 6015 bp with an A + T content of 70.5%, featuring terminal inverted repeats (TIRs) at both ends. It encodes three essential proteins (Cox1, Cox3, and Cob) and six fragments of large subunit rRNA genes. Comparative analysis revealed high sequence identity with Babesia sp. Xinjiang (87.5%) and Babesia sp. Dunhuang (87.5%), suggesting a close evolutionary relationship. The study highlights the conservation of mitochondrial gene content across Babesia and Theileria species, emphasizing their utility in phylogenetic studies. The findings also suggest that TIR variability plays a role in mitochondrial genome size differences, influencing species-specific adaptations. This research provides valuable insights into the evolution and functional adaptations of B. ovis and underscores the potential of mitochondrial genomic data in enhancing diagnostic and therapeutic strategies for babesiosis. Further exploration of mitochondrial genomes in Babesia species is essential for understanding their biology and developing effective control measures. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Ticks and Tick-Borne Pathogens)

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Open AccessArticle

Development and Evaluation of a Semi-Nested PCR Method Based on the 18S ribosomal RNA Gene for the Detection of Babesia aktasi Infections in Goats

by Mehmet Can Ulucesme, Sezayi Ozubek and Munir Aktas

Vet. Sci. 2024, 11(10), 466; https://doi.org/10.3390/vetsci11100466 - 1 Oct 2024

Viewed by 1186

Abstract

We developed and evaluated a semi-nested PCR assay for the detection of Babesia aktasi infection in goats based on the sequence of the B. aktasi 18S ribosomal RNA gene. Following in silico screening, the specificity of the primers was assessed using reference DNA [...] Read more.

We developed and evaluated a semi-nested PCR assay for the detection of Babesia aktasi infection in goats based on the sequence of the B. aktasi 18S ribosomal RNA gene. Following in silico screening, the specificity of the primers was assessed using reference DNA samples, including B. ovis, B. motasi, B. crassa, B. venatorum, B. divergens, B. capreoli, Theileria ovis, and T. annulata. To determine the sensitivity of the method, blood infected with 2% parasitemia of B. aktasi was diluted to 10-fold serial dilutions. The method specifically amplified a 438 bp fragment of B. aktasi DNA, but did not demonstrate cross-amplification with the other hemoparasites tested. The sensitivity assay indicated that this PCR method was able to detect infection at a dilution of 10⁻⁸ of 2% parasitemia (0.074 parasites/200 µL). Ninety-seven blood samples collected from goats were used to analyze for B. aktasi, and the infection was detected in 18.5% of the goats. Additionally, the method was also applied to 44 field DNA samples that were detected to be positive for B. aktasi by reverse line blotting (RLB), and showed 84.1% agreement. The findings revealed that newly developed semi-nested PCR can detect B. aktasi infections in goats with high sensitivity and specificity. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Ticks and Tick-Borne Pathogens)

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25 pages, 3514 KiB  

Open AccessArticle

Molecular Identification and Bioinformatics Analysis of Anaplasma marginale Moonlighting Proteins as Possible Antigenic Targets

by Rosa Estela Quiroz-Castañeda, Hugo Aguilar-Díaz, Eduardo Coronado-Villanueva, Diego Israel Catalán-Ochoa and Itzel Amaro-Estrada

Pathogens 2024, 13(10), 845; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens13100845 - 28 Sep 2024

Viewed by 816

Abstract

Background: Diseases of veterinary importance, such as bovine Anaplasmosis, cause significant economic losses. Due to this, the study of various proteins of the causal agent Anaplasma marginale has focused on surface proteins. However, a vaccine for this disease is not yet available. To this [...] Read more.

Background: Diseases of veterinary importance, such as bovine Anaplasmosis, cause significant economic losses. Due to this, the study of various proteins of the causal agent Anaplasma marginale has focused on surface proteins. However, a vaccine for this disease is not yet available. To this end, in this work, moonlighting proteins (MLPs) are presented as an alternative approach for the design of immunogens against A. marginale. Methods: The proteins of the strain MEX-15-099-01 were analyzed, and its MLPs were identified. Subsequently, four virulence-associated MLP genes were selected and identified using PCR. The proteins were analyzed using a structural homology approach and the collection of B-cell epitopes was predicted for each MLP. Finally, a pair of AmEno peptides were synthesized and the antigenic potential was tested using an iELISA. Results: Our bioinformatics analysis revealed the potential of AmEno, AmGroEl, AmEF-Tu, and AmDnaK proteins as promising candidates for designing immunogens. The PCR allowed the gene sequence identification in the genome of the strain MEX-15-099-01. Notably, AmEno-derived synthetic peptides showed antigenicity in an ELISA. Conclusions: Our study has shed light on the potential use of MLPs for immunogen design, demonstrating the antigenic potential of AmEno. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Ticks and Tick-Borne Pathogens)

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12 pages, 1631 KiB  

Open AccessArticle

Habitat Suitability of Ixodes ricinus Ticks Carrying Pathogens in North-East Italy

by Maartje Huitink, Myrna de Rooij, Fabrizio Montarsi, Maria Vittoria Salvati, Federica Obber, Graziana Da Rold, Sofia Sgubin, Elisa Mazzotta, Guido di Martino, Matteo Mazzucato, Cristiano Salata, Nicoletta Vonesch, Paola Tomao and Lapo Mughini-Gras

Pathogens 2024, 13(10), 836; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens13100836 - 27 Sep 2024

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Abstract

Ixodes ricinus ticks are ubiquitous in Europe, including in North-East Italy. These ticks are important vectors of several zoonotic pathogens of public health relevance. In this study, the habitat suitability range of I. ricinus ticks infected with zoonotic pathogens was predicted in North-East [...] Read more.

Ixodes ricinus ticks are ubiquitous in Europe, including in North-East Italy. These ticks are important vectors of several zoonotic pathogens of public health relevance. In this study, the habitat suitability range of I. ricinus ticks infected with zoonotic pathogens was predicted in North-East Italy, and relevant spatial predictors were identified. In 2015–2021, ticks were collected at 26 sampling sites in the study area. The collected ticks were screened for the presence of pathogens using PCR assays. For Borrelia, Rickettsia and Anaplasma/Ehrlichia species, data allowed for ecological niche modelling using Maxent. Environmental determinants potentially related to tick habitat suitability were used as model inputs. Predicted suitable habitat distributions revealed hotspots of the probability of pathogen presence in I. ricinus ticks mainly in the central and upper parts of the study area. Key environmental predictors were temperature, rainfall and altitude, and vegetation index for specific pathogens (Rickettsia and Anaplasma/Ehrlichia species). Increased risk of exposure to tick-borne pathogens upon tick bites in the predicted hotspot areas can, therefore, be expected. This provides useful information for public health risk managers in this and other similar regions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Ticks and Tick-Borne Pathogens)

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14 pages, 1424 KiB  

Open AccessArticle

Impact of Farm Management Practices on Tick Infestation in Punjab’s Livestock: A Comprehensive Epidemiological Study

by Muhammad Husnain Ali Alvi, Abdul Rehman, Tariq Jamil, Muhammad Zahid Iqbal, Aneela Zameer Durrani, Aman Ullah Khan, Muhammad Usman, Carola Sauter-Louis and Franz J. Conraths

Animals 2024, 14(16), 2437; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14162437 - 22 Aug 2024

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1514

Abstract

Tick infestation poses an important challenge to livestock in Pakistan. Farm management practices and environmental variables can influence tick infestation prevalence in animals. To this end, a cross-sectional survey of 96 farms in four different geographical districts (24 farms from each district) was [...] Read more.

Tick infestation poses an important challenge to livestock in Pakistan. Farm management practices and environmental variables can influence tick infestation prevalence in animals. To this end, a cross-sectional survey of 96 farms in four different geographical districts (24 farms from each district) was conducted in Punjab, Pakistan, between October 2021 and January 2022. An epidemiological questionnaire was designed focusing on farm management practices and their impact on tick infestations at these farms. Data were collected via in-person interviews. Regional and farm-specific variables’ associations were evaluated using Pearson’s chi-square test and Fischer’s exact test, respectively. A multivariable logistic regression model was used to identify significant risk factors. This study identified that using soft bedding materials, e.g., wheat straw, leaf litter or plain soil posed a significant risk of tick infestation. Additionally, the absence of quarantine measures, open sheds and inadequate drainage were found as contributing factors in univariable analysis. Higher tick prevalence in the hotter seasons highlighted the influence of Punjab’s extreme weather on tick infestation. Despite regular veterinary visits and the use of acaricidal drugs, the prevalence of tick infestation at these farms suggested potential drug resistance in the ticks. The study recommended establishing quarantine practices, improving farms’ drainage systems and bedding and using a combination of chemical and traditional remedies to tackle drug resistance in ticks. Education and awareness programs on tick-borne diseases and control measures are advocated to reduce the tick infestation burden on animals. Further research on longitudinal studies to better understand tick population dynamics and develop effective acaricides is encouraged. This called for collaborative control efforts among farmers, veterinarians and research institutions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Ticks and Tick-Borne Pathogens)

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8 pages, 811 KiB  

Open AccessCommunication

Risk of Ixodes ricinus Bites in a Population of Forestry Workers in an Endemic Region in France

by Antoine Grillon, Erik Sauleau and Nathalie Boulanger

Pathogens 2024, 13(8), 696; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens13080696 - 16 Aug 2024

Viewed by 950

Abstract

The progressing worldwide increases in tick occurrence and tick-borne diseases calls for the development of new prevention strategies to reduce their impact on human and animal health. Defining the risk of exposure to tick bites is therefore essential. Forestry workers are at high [...] Read more.

The progressing worldwide increases in tick occurrence and tick-borne diseases calls for the development of new prevention strategies to reduce their impact on human and animal health. Defining the risk of exposure to tick bites is therefore essential. Forestry workers are at high risk of tick bites. We set up an explorative study among forestry workers in the Alsace region in eastern France to measure the different factors affecting the risk of Ixodes ricinus tick bites during their activities in forests. For one year, forestry workers recorded the presence of ticks on their clothes and tick bites every time they were working in teams in different forest ecosystems. Questions about the prevention measures they followed were also noted. Among the 32 participants, we were able to differentiate between groups having a high, neutral, or low risk of being bitten. The median tick bite number per year was 4 (0–8). We tried to identify individual as well as environmental factors affecting the risk of tick bites. Factors influencing the risk were the seasonal peak of tick activity in May and June, the time of exposure, and the forest ecosystems visited during the year. Additional factors potentially affecting the risk were also identified. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Ticks and Tick-Borne Pathogens)

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12 pages, 2260 KiB  

Open AccessArticle

Molecular Detection of Anaplasma phagocytophilum in Cats in Europe and Associated Risk Factors

by Vera Geisen, Nikola Pantchev, Yury Zablotski, Olga Kim, Majda Globokar Vrhovec, Katrin Hartmann and Michéle Bergmann

Animals 2024, 14(16), 2368; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14162368 - 15 Aug 2024

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Abstract

Infections with Anaplasma (A.) phagocytophilum in cats seem to be rare. The study aimed to determine whether infections in cats are underestimated and to identify the risk factors for infection. Blood samples of 1015 cats across Europe (2017–2022), sent to IDEXX [...] Read more.

Infections with Anaplasma (A.) phagocytophilum in cats seem to be rare. The study aimed to determine whether infections in cats are underestimated and to identify the risk factors for infection. Blood samples of 1015 cats across Europe (2017–2022), sent to IDEXX Laboratories, Germany, were tested for A. phagocytophilum DNA. The influence of the cats’ origin on A. phagocytophilum infection was assessed by univariable analysis, while multivariable logistic regression evaluated associations with the cats’ sex and age, and the years, and seasonality of the samples’ submission. Furthermore, univariable linear regression was used to determine patterns in PCR orders. The number of submitted samples increased significantly during the 6 years (p = 0.042). Anaplasma phagocytophilum DNA was detected in 76/1015 of cats (7.5%, 95% CI 6.0–9.3%). Infections were significantly more common in Northern compared to Central (p < 0.001, OR: 8.70) and Southern Europe (p < 0.001, OR: 39.94). A significantly higher likelihood for infections during the summer compared with winter (p = 0.047, OR: 3.13) was found. Bacteremia with A. phagocytophilum in European cats is not uncommon. Anaplasma phagocytophilum infection should be considered an important risk, particularly in Northern Europe. Effective tick prevention is crucial for managing feline health across Europe, not just in the Mediterranean region. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Ticks and Tick-Borne Pathogens)

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11 pages, 2415 KiB  

Open AccessArticle

Molecular Detection of Theileria ovis, Anaplasma ovis, and Rickettsia spp. in Rhipicephalus turanicus and Hyalomma anatolicum Collected from Sheep in Southern Xinjiang, China

by Yongchang Li, Jianlong Li, Gulaimubaier Xieripu, Mohamed Abdo Rizk, Adrian Miki C. Macalanda, Lu Gan, Jichao Ren, Uday Kumar Mohanta, Shimaa Abd El-Salam El-Sayed, Bayin Chahan, Xuenan Xuan and Qingyong Guo

Pathogens 2024, 13(8), 680; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens13080680 - 11 Aug 2024

Viewed by 1011

Abstract

The Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region (Xinjiang) borders eight countries and has a complex geographic environment. There are almost 45.696 million herded sheep in Xinjiang, which occupies 13.80% of China’s sheep farming industry. However, there is a scarcity of reports investigating the role of [...] Read more.

The Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region (Xinjiang) borders eight countries and has a complex geographic environment. There are almost 45.696 million herded sheep in Xinjiang, which occupies 13.80% of China’s sheep farming industry. However, there is a scarcity of reports investigating the role of sheep or ticks in Xinjiang in transmitting tick-borne diseases (TBDs). A total of 894 ticks (298 tick pools) were collected from sheep in southern Xinjiang. Out of the 298 tick pools investigated in this study, Rhipicephalus turanicus (Rh. turanicus) and Hyalomma anatolicum (H. anatolicum) were identified through morphological and molecular sequencing. In the southern part of Xinjiang, 142 (47.65%), 86 (28.86%), and 60 (20.13%) tick pools were positive for Rickettsia spp., Theileria spp., and Anaplasma spp., respectively. Interestingly, the infection rate of Rickettsia spp. (73%, 35.10%, and 28.56–41.64%) was higher in Rh. turanicus pools than in H. anatolicum pools (4%, 4.44%, and 0.10–8.79%) in this study. Fifty-one tick pools were found to harbor two pathogens, while nineteen tick pools were detected to have the three pathogens. Our findings indicate the presence of Rickettsia spp., Theileria spp., and Anaplasma spp. potentially transmitted by H. anatolicum and Rh. turanicus in sheep in southern Xinjiang, China. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Ticks and Tick-Borne Pathogens)

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10 pages, 599 KiB  

Open AccessArticle

Sheep Displayed No Clinical and Parasitological Signs upon Experimental Infection with Babesia aktasi

by Mehmet Can Ulucesme, Sezayi Ozubek and Munir Aktas

Vet. Sci. 2024, 11(8), 359; https://doi.org/10.3390/vetsci11080359 - 8 Aug 2024

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1149

Abstract

Our survey in the Mediterranean region of Türkiye revealed high prevalence of Babesia aktasi in goats, while no molecular evidence of the parasite was found in sheep grazing in the same pasture. We hypothesized that the parasite may not be infectious to sheep. [...] Read more.

Our survey in the Mediterranean region of Türkiye revealed high prevalence of Babesia aktasi in goats, while no molecular evidence of the parasite was found in sheep grazing in the same pasture. We hypothesized that the parasite may not be infectious to sheep. To test this hypothesis, the present study was designed to evaluate the susceptibility of Akkaraman sheep breed to B. aktasi infection. Fifteen mL of fresh blood infected with B. aktasi was injected into immune-suppressed lambs (n = 5). The recipient lambs were monitored daily for clinical signs of babesiosis over 30 days, and blood was collected for microscopic and molecular diagnostic evaluation. The lambs did not display clinical and parasitological signs of babesiosis. Two out of five recipient lambs were nested PCR-negative for B. aktasi over 30 days post infection. Out of the remaining three lambs, two were PCR positive on the first day, and one recipient was positive until the fourth day post infection. DNA sequencing confirmed that the PCR positivity in the recipient lambs originated from the inoculum. These findings revealed that immune-suppressed sheep do not appear to be susceptible to infection with B. aktasi that is lethal to immune-suppressed indigenous goats. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Ticks and Tick-Borne Pathogens)

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11 pages, 1379 KiB  

Open AccessCommunication

Acarological Risk of Infection with Borrelia burgdorferi, the Lyme Disease Agent, in Staten Island, New York City

by Liyang Zhou, Leonid Tsynman, Kamesan Kanapathipillai, Zahir Shah and Waheed Bajwa

Arthropoda 2024, 2(3), 181-191; https://doi.org/10.3390/arthropoda2030014 - 15 Jul 2024

Viewed by 932

Abstract

Lyme disease, the leading vector-borne ailment in the U.S., annually affects an estimated 476,000 individuals, predominantly in the Northeast and Upper Midwest. Despite its increasing incidence, the evaluation of risk within U.S. cities, including natural public lands, remains inadequate. This study focuses on [...] Read more.

Lyme disease, the leading vector-borne ailment in the U.S., annually affects an estimated 476,000 individuals, predominantly in the Northeast and Upper Midwest. Despite its increasing incidence, the evaluation of risk within U.S. cities, including natural public lands, remains inadequate. This study focuses on blacklegged tick occurrences and Borrelia burgdorferi infection prevalence in 24 Staten Island parks, aiming to assess Lyme disease exposure risk. Monthly acarological risk index (ARI) calculations from 2019 to 2022 revealed elevated values (0.16–0.53) in specific parks, notably Wolfe’s Pond Park, High Rock Park, Clay Pit Pond Park, Clove Lake Park, and Fair View Park. June (0.36) and November (0.21) consistently exhibited heightened ARIs, aligning with peak tick collection months. Despite stable yearly infection rates at 28.97%, tick densities varied significantly between parks and years. Identifying a high transmission risk in specific parks in Staten Island, a highly urbanized part of New York City, emphasizes the continuous necessity for Lyme disease risk management, even within the greenspaces of large cities. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Ticks and Tick-Borne Pathogens)

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13 pages, 1657 KiB  

Open AccessArticle

Molecular Identification of Spotted Fever Group Rickettsiae in Ticks in the Republic of Korea

by Ji-Ye Seo, Jin-Seo Park, Hee-Il Lee and Jung-Won Ju

Pathogens 2024, 13(7), 575; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens13070575 - 10 Jul 2024

Viewed by 1033

Abstract

The Rickettsia species transmitted by ticks are mostly classified within the spotted fever group rickettsiae (SFGR), which causes tick-borne rickettsiosis. Although efforts have been made to investigate their prevalence in the Republic of Korea (ROK), research has been limited to certain areas. Furthermore, [...] Read more.

The Rickettsia species transmitted by ticks are mostly classified within the spotted fever group rickettsiae (SFGR), which causes tick-borne rickettsiosis. Although efforts have been made to investigate their prevalence in the Republic of Korea (ROK), research has been limited to certain areas. Furthermore, the pooling method for ticks does not fully reflect the exact infection rate. Therefore, we aimed to perform molecular identification of SFGR in ticks to elucidate the current prevalence of tick-borne rickettsiosis in the ROK. The SFGR of ticks was identified using polymerase chain reaction targeting the 17 kDa antigen, ompA, and gltA, followed by sequencing for species identification and phylogenetic analysis. In total, 302 ticks belonging to four species (Haemaphysalis flava, H. longicornis, Ixodes nipponensis, and Amblyomma testudinarium) were collected between April and November 2022. The overall SFGR infection rate was 26.8% (81/302 patients). Both adult and nymphal ticks and the SFGR infection rate increased during April–May, reaching their peaks in June, followed by a marked decline in August and July, respectively. Phylogenetic analysis revealed three species (R. monacensis, R. heilongjiangensis, and Candidatus R. jingxinensis) of SFGR. Thus, our results emphasize the importance of tick surveys for the prevention and management of tick-borne rickettsiosis. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Ticks and Tick-Borne Pathogens)

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12 pages, 2192 KiB  

Open AccessArticle

Incompetence of Vector Capacity of Rhipicephalus bursa to Transmit Babesia aktasi following Feeding on Clinically Infected Goat with High Level of Parasitemia

by Mehmet Can Ulucesme, Sezayi Ozubek and Munir Aktas

Vet. Sci. 2024, 11(7), 309; https://doi.org/10.3390/vetsci11070309 - 10 Jul 2024

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1164

Abstract

A recent molecular survey revealed a high prevalence of Babesia aktasi in indigenous goats from the Mediterranean region of Türkiye, coinciding with heavy Rhipicephalus bursa infestations. This geographical overlap has raised the possibility that R. bursa may serve as a vector for the parasite. To [...] Read more.

A recent molecular survey revealed a high prevalence of Babesia aktasi in indigenous goats from the Mediterranean region of Türkiye, coinciding with heavy Rhipicephalus bursa infestations. This geographical overlap has raised the possibility that R. bursa may serve as a vector for the parasite. To evaluate the potential of R. bursa to serve as a vector for the parasite, an experimental study was conducted in indigenous goats. An immune-suppressed donor goat was intravenously injected with 15 mL of the cryopreserved B. aktasi stabilate, resulting in severe clinical babesiosis and parasitemia. Subsequently, R. bursa larvae and adults derived from Babesia-free laboratory colonies were allowed to feed on the infected donor goat. After oviposition, engorged female carcasses, representative engorged nymphs, unfed larvae, and adult pools were used for DNA extraction and PCR analysis. No PCR positivity was detected in any of the DNA samples, except for those with engorged female carcasses and nymphs. Three immune-suppressed recipient goats were infested with the unfed immature and mature ticks consuming the blood of a donor infected with B. aktasi. No clinical or parasitological findings were encountered in the recipient for 40 days post-infestation. These findings indicated that R. bursa was not a competent vector for B. aktasi. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Ticks and Tick-Borne Pathogens)

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16 pages, 4050 KiB  

Open AccessArticle

The Establishment of a Novel In Vitro System for Culturing Cytauxzoon felis

by Pabasara Weerarathne, Mason Reichard, Craig Miller and Ruth C. Scimeca

Pathogens 2024, 13(7), 565; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens13070565 - 4 Jul 2024

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Abstract

Cytauxzoonosis, a highly fatal tick-borne disease in domestic cats caused by Cytauxzoon felis, poses diagnostic and therapeutic challenges due to the inability to culture the parasite in vitro. This study aimed to artificially replicate C. felis infection and characterize in vitro replication [...] Read more.

Cytauxzoonosis, a highly fatal tick-borne disease in domestic cats caused by Cytauxzoon felis, poses diagnostic and therapeutic challenges due to the inability to culture the parasite in vitro. This study aimed to artificially replicate C. felis infection and characterize in vitro replication kinetics. Concanavalin A-activated feline embryonal macrophages (Fcwf-4) were plated at 3–5 × 10⁵ cells/mL and incubated with C. felis-positive blood samples from either a (1) chronically infected bobcat (Lynx rufus), (2) chronically infected domestic cat, or (3) acutely infected domestic cat with clinical signs of cytauxzoonosis. Temporal changes in parasite load were quantified by droplet digital PCR (ddPCR), and the inhibition of infection/replication was assessed using atovaquone, imidocarb dipropionate (ID), artemisinin, ponazuril, and neutralizing antibodies. Tick cell lines AAE2 and ISE6 were also tested for infection. In vitro inoculation with chronic infection led to transient replication, while acute infection resulted in sustained replication beyond 10 days post-inoculation. Atovaquone, ID, and artemisinin inhibited replication, and neutralizing antibodies prevented infection. The inoculation of tick cells in vitro indicated infection; however, parasite replication was not observed. The results of this study established an in vitro model for studying infection dynamics, assessing therapy efficacy, and testing vaccination strategies in cytauxzoonosis-infected cats. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Ticks and Tick-Borne Pathogens)

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14 pages, 1812 KiB  

Open AccessArticle

Development and Application of an In Vitro Tick Feeding System to Identify Ixodes Tick Environment-Induced Genes of the Lyme Disease Agent, Borrelia burgdorferi

by Youki Yamasaki, Preeti Singh, Rubikah Vimonish, Massaro Ueti and Troy Bankhead

Pathogens 2024, 13(6), 487; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens13060487 - 7 Jun 2024

Viewed by 1294

Abstract

The bacterial agent of Lyme disease, Borrelia burgdorferi, exists in an enzootic cycle by adapting to dissimilar mammalian and tick environments. The genetic elements necessary for host and vector adaptation are spread across a bacterial genome comprised of a linear chromosome and [...] Read more.

The bacterial agent of Lyme disease, Borrelia burgdorferi, exists in an enzootic cycle by adapting to dissimilar mammalian and tick environments. The genetic elements necessary for host and vector adaptation are spread across a bacterial genome comprised of a linear chromosome and essential linear and circular plasmids. The promoter trap system, In Vivo Expression Technology (IVET), has been used to identify promoters of B. burgdorferi that are transcriptionally active specifically during infection of a murine host. However, an observed infection bottleneck effect in mice prevented the application of this system to study promoters induced in a tick environment. In this study, we adapted a membrane-based in vitro feeding system as a novel method to infect the Ixodes spp. vector with B. burgdorferi. Once adapted, we performed IVET screens as a proof of principle via an infected bloodmeal on the system. The screen yielded B. burgdorferi promoters that are induced during tick infection and verified relative expression levels using qRT-PCR. The results of our study demonstrate the potential of our developed in vitro tick feeding system and IVET systems to gain insight into the adaptive gene expression of the Lyme disease bacteria to the tick vector. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Ticks and Tick-Borne Pathogens)

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7 pages, 1658 KiB  

Open AccessCommunication

Novel Theileria sp. as an Etiology of Cutaneous Theileriosis among the Vulnerable Arabian Oryx

by Sonia Boughattas, Mutassim A. Salih, Andrea Dogliero and Nahla O. Eltai

Pathogens 2024, 13(6), 485; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens13060485 - 7 Jun 2024

Viewed by 1386

Abstract

The Arabian Peninsula’s endemic ungulate, Oryx leucoryx, was on the verge of extinction at the end of the 1970s. Despite the different reintroduction programs, the International Union for Conservation of Nature is still classifying it as Vulnerable. Among other factors, their vulnerability [...] Read more.

The Arabian Peninsula’s endemic ungulate, Oryx leucoryx, was on the verge of extinction at the end of the 1970s. Despite the different reintroduction programs, the International Union for Conservation of Nature is still classifying it as Vulnerable. Among other factors, their vulnerability lies in their susceptibility to specific etiological agents that affect livestock, necessitating health monitoring and strict preventive/biosecurity measures. Within this frame, the current work investigated the determination of the etiological agent potentially involved with cutaneous lesions observed in eight males of Arabian oryx within one of the several national governance conservation programs. Microscopic examination from one animal specimen suggested theileriosis association, which was confirmed by molecular tools using 18S gene sequencing and the report of a novel Theileria sp. not clustering with previously reported antelope sequences. This finding prompts further explorations into the disease dynamics within the Arabian oryx population, especially with the scarcity of data in Qatar about tick-borne pathogens and their transmission. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Ticks and Tick-Borne Pathogens)

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13 pages, 666 KiB  

Open AccessArticle

Evidence of Incomplete Feeding Behaviors among South Carolina Tick Populations

by Kayla E. Bramlett, Laura E. Witt, Madeleine M. Meyer, Kia Zellars, Kyndall C. Dye-Braumuller and Melissa S. Nolan

Insects 2024, 15(6), 385; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects15060385 - 26 May 2024

Viewed by 1118

Abstract

Dynamic environmental conditions, such as climate change and host availability, have greatly influenced the expansion of medically relevant tick vectors into new regions throughout the southeastern United States of America. As tick populations migrate into new areas, it has been suggested they can [...] Read more.

Dynamic environmental conditions, such as climate change and host availability, have greatly influenced the expansion of medically relevant tick vectors into new regions throughout the southeastern United States of America. As tick populations migrate into new areas, it has been suggested they can exhibit a phenomenon known as incomplete feeding. With this phenomenon, tick vectors feed on more than one host at each life stage, thus increasing the likelihood of pathogen transmission. Although this behavior is not well understood, it presents an important threat to human health. Here we present evidence of incomplete feeding behaviors in multiple tick species in South Carolina. Engorged, blood-fed female ticks were collected from feral dogs at animal shelters across South Carolina in 2022. All ticks were tested for human blood meals using rapid stain identification blood tests. Approximately one third (33.78%) of all ticks tested positive for a human blood meal, with various patterns seen across species, geographic location, and collection month. The results of this pilot study follow the current national trend of increasing rates of tick-borne disease incidence in the southeastern United States of America and warrant further investigation into the relationship between seasonality, geographic distribution, species, and incomplete feeding among tick populations in South Carolina. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Ticks and Tick-Borne Pathogens)

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20 pages, 1193 KiB  

Open AccessArticle

Ixodiphagus hookeri (Hymenoptera: Encyrtidae) and Tick-Borne Pathogens in Ticks with Sympatric Occurrence (and Different Activities) in the Slovak Karst National Park (Slovakia), Central Europe

by Veronika Blažeková, Michal Stanko, Hein Sprong, Robert Kohl, Dana Zubriková, Lucia Vargová, Martin Bona, Dana Miklisová and Bronislava Víchová

Pathogens 2024, 13(5), 385; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens13050385 - 7 May 2024

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1468

Abstract

Ticks are involved in the transmission a plethora of pathogens. To effectively control ticks and mitigate the risks associated with tick-borne diseases, it is important to implement tick control measures. These may include the use of acaricides as well as the development and [...] Read more.

Ticks are involved in the transmission a plethora of pathogens. To effectively control ticks and mitigate the risks associated with tick-borne diseases, it is important to implement tick control measures. These may include the use of acaricides as well as the development and implementation of an alternative, environmentally friendly tick management program that include practices such as habitat modification or establishing biological control. Ixodiphagus hookeri Howard is a tick-specific parasitoid wasp that predates on several species of ixodid ticks and could contribute to the control of the tick population. This work aimed to detect the presence of parasitoid wasps in ticks (Ixodidae) using genetic approaches. Several tick species of the genera Ixodes, Haemaphysalis, and Dermacentor, with a sympatric occurrence in the Slovak Karst National Park in southeastern Slovakia, were screened for the presence of wasps of the genus Ixodiphagus. The DNA of the parasitoids was detected in four tick species from three genera. This work presents the first molecular detection of parasitoids in two Dermacentor tick species, as well as the first molecular identification of Ixodiphagus wasps in Ixodes ricinus and Haemaphysalis concinna ticks from the Karst area. In the given area, it was observed that I. ricinus and H. concinna ticks are hyper-parasitized by wasps. Moreover, it was observed that wasps here can parasitize several tick species, some of which are of less significance for human and animal health (as they transmit fewer pathogens). Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Ticks and Tick-Borne Pathogens)

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15 pages, 664 KiB  

Open AccessArticle

Co-Occurrence of Borrelia burgdorferi Sensu Lato and Babesia spp. DNA in Ixodes ricinus Ticks Collected from Vegetation and Pets in the City of Poznań, Poland

by Justyna Liberska, Jerzy Franciszek Michalik, Julia Olechnowicz and Miroslawa Dabert

Pathogens 2024, 13(4), 307; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens13040307 - 10 Apr 2024

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1510

Abstract

Here, we described the prevalence of Borrelia burgdorferi s.l. and Babesia species found in mono- and double infections among Ixodes ricinus ticks occurring in urban areas of the city of Poznań, Poland. We tested 1029 host-seeking ticks and 1268 engorged ticks removed from [...] Read more.

Here, we described the prevalence of Borrelia burgdorferi s.l. and Babesia species found in mono- and double infections among Ixodes ricinus ticks occurring in urban areas of the city of Poznań, Poland. We tested 1029 host-seeking ticks and 1268 engorged ticks removed from pet animals. Borrelia afzelii and B. garinii prevailed both in ticks from vegetation (3.7% and 3.7%, respectively) and from pets (3.7% and 0.6%, respectively). Babesia canis and Ba. microti were the most prevalent in host-seeking (2.6% and 1.4%, respectively) and feeding ticks (2.8% and 2.2%, respectively). Babesia microti sequences proved to be identical to the human pathogenic Ba. microti genotype “Jena/Germany”. Sequences of the rarest piroplasm Ba. venatorum (0.7%) were identical with those isolated from European patients. About 1.0% of tested ticks yielded dual infections; in host-seeking ticks, Ba. canis prevailed in co-infections with B. afzelii and B. garinii, whereas Ba. microti and B. afzelii dominated in double-infected feeding ticks. Dual infections, even with a low prevalence, pose a challenge for differential diagnosis in patients with acute febrile disease after a tick bite. The finding of Ba. canis in both tick groups suggests that I. ricinus could be involved in the circulation of this piroplasm. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Ticks and Tick-Borne Pathogens)

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20 pages, 2166 KiB  

Open AccessArticle

Comparative Transcriptome Analysis of Babesia bigemina Attenuated Vaccine and Virulent Strains of Mexican Origin

by Rebeca M. Santamaria, Karel Estrada, María E. López, Edith Rojas, Grecia Martínez, Yazmín Alcalá, Carmen Rojas, Jesús Antonio Álvarez, José J. Lira, Tomás V. Santamaria, Alejandro Sánchez-Flores and Julio V. Figueroa

Vaccines 2024, 12(3), 309; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines12030309 - 15 Mar 2024

Viewed by 2106

Abstract

Bovine babesiosis, caused by the protozoan Babesia bigemina, is one of the most important hemoparasite diseases of cattle in Mexico and the world. An attenuated B. bigemina strain maintained under in vitro culture conditions has been used as a live attenuated vaccine; [...] Read more.

Bovine babesiosis, caused by the protozoan Babesia bigemina, is one of the most important hemoparasite diseases of cattle in Mexico and the world. An attenuated B. bigemina strain maintained under in vitro culture conditions has been used as a live attenuated vaccine; however, the biological mechanisms involved in attenuation are unknown. The objective of this study was to identify, through a comparative transcriptomics approach, the components of the B. bigemina virulent parasites that are differentially expressed in vivo, as opposed to those expressed by B. bigemina attenuated vaccine parasites when inoculated into naïve cattle. The biological material under study was obtained by inoculating spleen-intact cattle with infected erythrocytes containing either the attenuated strain or a virulent field strain. After RNA extraction, transcriptomic analysis (RNA-seq) was performed, followed by bioinformatic Differential Expression (DE) analysis and Gene Ontology (GO) term enrichment. The high-throughput sequencing results obtained by analyzing three biological replicates for each parasite strain ranged from 9,504,000 to 9,656,000, and 13,400,000 to 15,750,000 reads for the B. bigemina attenuated and virulent strains, respectively. At least 519 differentially expressed genes were identified in the analyzed strains. In addition, GO analysis revealed both similarities and differences across the three categories: cellular components, biological processes, and molecular functions. The attenuated strain of B. bigemina derived from in vitro culture presents global transcriptomic changes when compared to the virulent strain. Moreover, the obtained data provide insights into the potential molecular mechanisms associated with the attenuation or pathogenicity of each analyzed strain, offering molecular markers that might be associated with virulence or potential vaccine candidates. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Ticks and Tick-Borne Pathogens)

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9 pages, 506 KiB  

Open AccessArticle

Serosurvey of Tick-Borne Encephalitis Virus Infection in Romania

by Andreea Mădălina Panciu, Cristina Alexandra Cheran, Eliza Daniela Militaru, Claudia Doina Rîciu and Adriana Hristea

Pathogens 2024, 13(3), 231; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens13030231 - 6 Mar 2024

Viewed by 1982

Abstract

Background: Tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) is a disease with mandatory declaration in the EU since 2012. Information regarding the seroprevalence of the disease across Romania is limited, and only sporadic cases are rarely reported. We aimed to identify new areas of TBEV infection in [...] Read more.

Background: Tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) is a disease with mandatory declaration in the EU since 2012. Information regarding the seroprevalence of the disease across Romania is limited, and only sporadic cases are rarely reported. We aimed to identify new areas of TBEV infection in different counties of Romania. Methods: We conducted a serosurvey assessing the immune response to TBEV infection in adult populations from rural areas in different counties of the country. Seropositivity was defined by a positive TBEV IgM/IgG ELISA test and confirmed by serum neutralization. Results: We collected 1116 samples from 15 different localities in 10 counties (divided into endemic/border/non-endemic counties) across Romania. Overall, 26 (2.3%) of the samples were tested positive using the TBEV ELISA assay in six counties. In those counties, 3.7% of sera were positive, varying from 1.4% to 6.9% per county. After performing the neutralization assay, seven (0.6%) samples were confirmed positive, interestingly all from one site in Sibiu County, where the seroprevalence was 9.7%. Conclusions: The identification of positive serum samples in serosurveys appears to rely on the discovery of TBEV microfoci. Further serological surveys should be conducted in Romania, especially after the identification of positive TBEV patients presenting for medical care. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Ticks and Tick-Borne Pathogens)

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13 pages, 744 KiB  

Open AccessReview

Spotted Fever Group Rickettsia spp. Molecular and Serological Evidence among Colombian Vectors and Animal Hosts: A Historical Review

by Lídia Gual-Gonzalez, Myriam E. Torres, Stella C. W. Self, Omar Cantillo-Barraza and Melissa S. Nolan

Insects 2024, 15(3), 170; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects15030170 - 2 Mar 2024

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1981

Abstract

Spotted fever group Rickettsia spp. (SFGR) are a large group of tick-borne bacteria causing important emerging and re-emerging diseases that affect animals and humans. While SFGR are found worldwide, a lack of surveillance and misdiagnosis particularly affect South American countries. Colombia is a [...] Read more.

Spotted fever group Rickettsia spp. (SFGR) are a large group of tick-borne bacteria causing important emerging and re-emerging diseases that affect animals and humans. While SFGR are found worldwide, a lack of surveillance and misdiagnosis particularly affect South American countries. Colombia is a high burdened country in South America, yet rickettsioses are not deemed a nationally reportable condition limiting disease-specific public health resources. As mortality rates are high for one Rickettsia pathogen species, there is a great need to better understand the epidemiological and ecological factors that increase SFGR transmission risk regionally. This literature review provides an overview of Colombia-based SFGR studies connecting knowledge about both vectors and hosts. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Ticks and Tick-Borne Pathogens)

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