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Published on: February 4, 2018
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Microfluidic PCR and network analysis reveals complex tick-borne pathogen interactions in the tropics
Cristian Díaz-Corona1,2, Lisset Roblejo-Arias1, Elianne Piloto-Sardiñas1,2
1Direction of Animal Health, National Center for Animal and Plant Health, Carretera de Tapaste y Autopista Nacional, Apartado Postal 10, 32700, San José de Las Lajas, Mayabeque, Cuba.
Parasites & Vectors
|January 4, 2024
Summary
This study reveals significant interactions among tick-borne pathogens (TBPs) in Cuban dogs and ticks. Hepatozoon canis and Ehrlichia canis show complex associations, impacting disease surveillance.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Parasitology
- Molecular Epidemiology
- Vector-borne Diseases
Background:
- Ixodid ticks, especially Rhipicephalus sanguineus s.l., are key vectors for canine and human diseases in Cuba.
- Limited understanding exists regarding tick-borne pathogen (TBP) interactions within infected dogs and their tick vectors.
- This study investigates TBP co-occurrences in dogs and R. sanguineus s.l. in Cuba.
Purpose of the Study:
- To elucidate pathogen-pathogen interactions among tick-borne diseases in dogs and ticks.
- To analyze the prevalence and associations of various bacterial and parasitic pathogens.
- To understand the role of Rhipicephalus sanguineus s.l. in TBP transmission dynamics.
Main Methods:
- Cross-sectional study of 46 client-owned dogs and their infesting ticks.
- Microfluidic-based high-throughput real-time PCR for detecting 25 bacterial and 10 parasite species.
- Yule's Q statistic and network analysis to assess TBP associations.
Main Results:
- High prevalence of TBPs detected in both dogs and Rhipicephalus sanguineus s.l. ticks.
- Hepatozoon canis and Ehrlichia canis were common; co-infections were observed.
- Significant positive associations found between Anaplasma platys and H. canis, and between H. canis and E. canis, indicating facilitative interactions.
Conclusions:
- The research provides crucial insights into TBP prevalence and interactions in Cuba.
- Findings highlight the complex network of haemoparasite co-occurrences.
- Enhanced understanding aids in disease surveillance and management strategies for tick-borne diseases.
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