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Prevalence and Phylogenetic Analysis of Mycoplasma Synoviae Strains Isolated from Polish Chicken Layer Flocks
Olimpia Kursa1, Grzegorz Tomczyk1, Anna Sawicka1
1Department of Poultry Diseases, National Veterinary Research Institute, 24-100 Puławy, Poland.
Introduction:
Mycoplasma synoviae (MS) is a chicken pathogen of major economic importance.
Material And Methods:
Between 2010 and 2016, 906 commercial layer chicken flocks in Poland were examined for MS, and the phylogenetic relationship among the strains was established. Regionally dispersed samples were collected and tested with the use of real-time PCR to detect the 16S-23S intergenic spacer region. Positive samples were also tested with LAMP and conventional PCR to detect the vlhA gene.
Results:
MS genetic material was detected in 265 (29%) of the tested flocks by real-time PCR, in 227 by the LAMP method and in 202 (22%) by conventional PCR. The by-year percentage of positive samples began at 34% in 2010, rose to 44% in 2012, and declined to 29% in 2016. A phylogenetic analysis of Polish M. synoviae strains using a partial sequence of the vlhA gene showed nine genotypes (A-I), the most frequently occurring being F and C. Pathogenic Polish MS field isolates (n = 27) collected from chickens with clinical signs of infection were grouped for their characteristic symptoms: respiratory for genotypes C, E, F, and I (n = 13), EAA and a drop in laying for genotypes F, E, and C (n = 12), and synovitis for genotype A (n = 2).
Conclusion:
These data showed the country's isolate diversity. The high prevalence suggests the need to introduce appropriate control programmes. This is the first report of molecular epidemiological data on M. synoviae infection in layer chickens in Poland.
Insights
Mycoplasma synoviae was detected in 29% of Polish layer flocks between 2010-2016. Molecular analysis revealed nine genotypes, with F and C being most common, highlighting the need for control programs.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Microbiology
- Molecular Epidemiology
- Poultry Health
Background:
- Mycoplasma synoviae (MS) is a significant pathogen in commercial poultry, causing substantial economic losses.
- Understanding the prevalence and genetic diversity of MS is crucial for effective disease management in layer chickens.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the molecular epidemiology of Mycoplasma synoviae in Polish commercial layer flocks.
- To determine the prevalence, genetic diversity, and phylogenetic relationships of MS isolates in Poland.
Main Methods:
- Real-time PCR, LAMP, and conventional PCR were employed to detect MS in 906 layer flocks from 2010 to 2016.
- Phylogenetic analysis of the vlhA gene was performed to characterize MS strains.
- Clinical signs associated with different genotypes were documented.
Main Results:
- MS was detected in 29% of flocks by real-time PCR, with prevalence fluctuating between 34% and 44% during the study period.
- Phylogenetic analysis identified nine distinct MS genotypes (A-I), with genotypes F and C being the most prevalent.
- Specific genotypes were associated with distinct clinical manifestations, including respiratory disease, EAA, decreased egg production, and synovitis.
Conclusions:
- This study provides the first molecular epidemiological data on Mycoplasma synoviae in Polish layer chickens, revealing significant genetic diversity.
- The high prevalence and diverse genotypes underscore the need for implementing targeted control strategies.
- Findings emphasize the importance of ongoing surveillance and molecular characterization for managing MS in poultry populations.
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