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In silico MLVA Analysis of Brucella melitensis from Human and Livestock in Iran
1Agricultural Research, Education and Extension Organization (AREEO), Razi Vaccine and Serum Research Institute (RVSRI), Karaj, Iran. maryamdadar@rvsri.ac.ir.
Abstract:
Brucellosis, a zoonotic disease caused by Brucella spp. globally, is of great significance not only to livestock but also to public health. The most significant of the twelve species is Brucella melitensis. This article is devoted to the endemic region of Iran and aims to uncover the molecular epidemiology of B. melitensis. Biotyping, AMOS-PCR, Bruce-ladder PCR, and the in silico method of MLVA were employed to test 40 B. melitensis isolates from humans, cows, sheep, goats, camels, and horses which are found in thirteen Iranian provinces throughout the years 2015 to 2022. The data from the MLVA-8 analysis showed that there were seven genotypes that could be identified, and the most commonly identified genotype was genotype 63. The data from the MLVA-10 analysis showed that there were seven genotypes, with genotype 213 being the most prevalent in Iran. The data from the MLVA-11 analysis showed that there were eight genotypes, with genotype 111 being the most prevalent in Iran. The MLVA and SNP analysis results showed that the bacteria were grouped into two main groups, known as the Eastern Mediterranean and American groups. Moreover, the outcomes from these analyses have added considerably to our understanding of the genetic/historical relationships among the isolates. Our study indicates a high prevalence of B. melitensis biovar 1 in Iran, accounting for 82.5% of the isolates. The study provides insight into such matters as the complex epidemiology of B. melitensis in Iran, suggesting different ways of transmission and sources of infection. This research points out the vital significance of the continuation of the surveillance and curation of B. melitensis in the diverse species of animals and humans. The simplicity and efficiency of MLVA-based molecular epidemiology offer information on the geographic distribution and genetic diversity of B. melitensis and, therefore, help in the devising of targeted strategies for the prevention of disease in animals.
Insights
This study reveals the molecular epidemiology of Brucella melitensis in Iran, identifying key genotypes and high prevalence of biovar 1. Understanding Brucella melitensis genetic diversity aids in controlling this significant zoonotic disease.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Microbiology
- Zoonotic Disease Epidemiology
- Molecular Epidemiology
Background:
- Brucellosis, a zoonotic disease caused by Brucella spp., poses significant risks to livestock and public health globally.
- Brucella melitensis is the most significant species within the Brucella genus.
- Iran faces challenges with Brucellosis, necessitating detailed molecular epidemiological studies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the molecular epidemiology of Brucella melitensis in Iran.
- To determine the genetic diversity and relationships among B. melitensis isolates from various hosts and provinces.
- To identify prevalent genotypes and biovars of B. melitensis in the region.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of 40 B. melitensis isolates from humans and animals across thirteen Iranian provinces (2015-2022).
- Utilized biotyping, AMOS-PCR, Bruce-ladder PCR, and in silico Multilocus Variable-number tandem repeat Analysis (MLVA).
- Incorporated Single Nucleotide Polymorphism (SNP) analysis for phylogenetic grouping.
Main Results:
- MLVA analyses (MLVA-8, -10, -11) identified multiple genotypes, with specific prevalent types (e.g., genotype 63, 213, 111).
- MLVA and SNP analyses grouped isolates into Eastern Mediterranean and American clusters, providing insights into genetic relationships.
- A high prevalence (82.5%) of B. melitensis biovar 1 was observed in Iran.
Conclusions:
- The study elucidates the complex epidemiology and genetic diversity of B. melitensis in Iran.
- Findings suggest varied transmission routes and infection sources, highlighting the need for continued surveillance.
- MLVA-based molecular epidemiology is effective for understanding geographic distribution and guiding targeted disease prevention strategies.
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