Bartonella spp. in Phlebotominae Sand Flies, Brazil
Emerging Infectious Diseases
|September 25, 2024
Summary
Bartonella bacteria DNA was detected in Brazilian sand flies, suggesting these insects may play a role in spreading Bartonella species. This study investigated the molecular occurrence of these opportunistic, vectorborne bacteria.
Area of Science:
- Medical Entomology
- Bacteriology
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- Bartonella species are opportunistic, vector-borne bacteria causing diseases in animals and humans.
- Sand flies are known vectors for various pathogens, but their role in Bartonella transmission requires further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the molecular occurrence of Bartonella species in phlebotomine sand flies from Brazil.
- To characterize Bartonella DNA found in sand fly specimens using phylogenetic analysis.
Main Methods:
- DNA extraction and quantitative real-time PCR targeting the 16S-23S internal transcribed spacer region.
- Phylogenetic analysis of Bartonella gltA and nuoG gene sequences.
Main Results:
- Bartonella DNA was detected in 8.7% (55/634) of sand fly specimens from north and northeastern Brazil.
- Phylogenetic analysis revealed Bartonella sequences associated with Lutzomyia longipalpis and Nyssomyia antunesi sand flies, with some sequences related to Bartonella ancashensis and bat-associated Bartonella.
Conclusions:
- This study documents the presence of Bartonella DNA in Brazilian sand flies.
- The findings suggest a potential role for these sand flies in the epidemiologic cycle of Bartonella species.
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