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Histopathological and immunological changes in green mussel, Perna viridis, challenged with Vibrio alginolyticus
A A Laith1, M K Ros-Amira1, H I Sheikh1
1Faculty of Fisheries and Food Science, Universiti Malaysia Terengganu, 21030, Kuala Terengganu, Malaysia.
Abstract:
Understanding of pathogenicity and immunity is crucial in producing disease-resistant cultured mollusk varieties. This study aimed to isolate pathogenic Vibrio alginolyticus from naturally infected Perna viridis, and to determine histopathological and immunological changes after challenge test with the same bacteria. Biochemical tests and 16S rDNA identified the pathogen as V. alginolyticus (99%). Antibiotic susceptibility test showed ampicillin resistance of the pathogen. Pathogenicity assay was conducted by immersing P. viridis in 1.5 × 106 CFU mL-1V. alginolyticus for 60 min and observed for 5 days. Clinical signs, histopathological and immunological alterations were observed and monitored. Infected groups showed 60% mortality and decreased immunity factors, including total hemocyte count and lysozymes activity. Histopathological examination revealed pathological lesions in the hepatopancreas at 24 h post-challenge and hemocyte proliferation as part of a severe inflammatory reaction. Karyomegaly in the hepatopancreas tissue, concomitant with necrosis demolition of tubules cells, was also observed. V. alginolyticus was determined to be pathogenic to P. viridis, causing mortality as a result of multiple organ lesions and dysfunction in digestive gland and immune organs. This study demonstrated the role of histopathological and immunological parameters as potential biomarkers in assessing vibriosis caused by Vibrio species in green mussel, P. viridis.
Insights
Vibrio alginolyticus infection caused 60% mortality in green mussels (Perna viridis). Histopathological and immunological changes, including hepatopancreas lesions and reduced immunity, were observed, highlighting disease biomarkers.
Area of Science:
- Aquaculture
- Marine Biology
- Pathogen Research
Background:
- Disease resistance is vital for cultured mollusks.
- Vibriosis poses a significant threat to mollusk aquaculture.
Purpose of the Study:
- Isolate Vibrio alginolyticus from infected Perna viridis.
- Assess histopathological and immunological impacts of V. alginolyticus infection.
Main Methods:
- Biochemical tests and 16S rDNA sequencing for pathogen identification.
- Antibiotic susceptibility testing.
- Pathogenicity assay via immersion challenge.
- Monitoring clinical signs, mortality, and immune factors (hemocytes, lysozymes).
- Histopathological examination of hepatopancreas.
Main Results:
- Vibrio alginolyticus identified as the pathogen, exhibiting ampicillin resistance.
- Infection led to 60% mortality in P. viridis.
- Significant decrease in total hemocyte count and lysozyme activity.
- Hepatopancreas lesions, karyomegaly, necrosis, and severe inflammation observed.
- V. alginolyticus confirmed pathogenic, causing organ damage and immune dysfunction.
Conclusions:
- Vibrio alginolyticus is pathogenic to green mussels, causing mortality through organ damage.
- Histopathological and immunological parameters serve as potential biomarkers for vibriosis assessment in P. viridis.
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