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Updated: May 14, 2025

Novel Sequence Discovery by Subtractive Genomics
Published on: January 25, 2019
Emergence of Novel Anaplasma Species in the Mediterranean Area
Valentina Chisu1, Rosanna Zobba2, Giovanna Masala1
1Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale "G. Pegreffi" della Sardegna, Via Duca degli Abruzzi 8, 07100 Sassari, Italy.
Abstract:
The emergence of new Anaplasma strains in the Mediterranean region poses a challenge for both veterinary medicine and public health, as it can lead to more complex diagnostic and treatment strategies. Species related to Anaplasma platys and A. phagocytophilum, two important tick-borne pathogens, have been reported in several Mediterranean countries. However, the data on their presence in Sardinia remain limited. This study aimed to identify theAnaplasmaspecies genetically related to zoonotic agents, such as A. phagocytophilum or A. platys, in Sardinian horses, cattle, and swine. Using various molecular approaches targeting the and genes, the results confirm the presence of Candidatus (Ca.) Anaplasma turritanum and reveal the emergence of Candidatus (Ca.) Anaplasma cinensis and an A. phagocytophilum-like strain, designated as A. phagocytophilum-like 2, in Sardinian horses and cattle. These findings underscore the importance of ongoing surveillance in Sardinia and similar Mediterranean regions, as well as the urgent need for enhanced diagnostic tools and preventive strategies. Given the zoonotic potential of these emerging strains, these findings emphasize the need for greater vigilance in both veterinary and human health sectors to mitigate the risks associated with tick-borne Anaplasma species transmission. Ongoing research and proactive measures are essential to reduce the public health burden and prevent the spread of these pathogens across animal and human populations.
Insights
New Anaplasma strains, including Candidatus Anaplasma cinensis and Anaplasma phagocytophilum-like 2, have emerged in Sardinian livestock. This highlights the need for enhanced surveillance and diagnostics for tick-borne pathogens in the Mediterranean region.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Medicine
- Molecular Biology
- Public Health
Background:
- Emerging Anaplasma strains in the Mediterranean present diagnostic and treatment challenges.
- Anaplasma platys and Anaplasma phagocytophilum are significant tick-borne pathogens.
- Limited data exists on Anaplasma species in Sardinian livestock.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify Anaplasma species genetically related to zoonotic agents in Sardinian horses, cattle, and swine.
- To investigate the presence of Anaplasma species, including those related to A. phagocytophilum and A. platys.
Main Methods:
- Molecular approaches were utilized.
- Specific genes were targeted for detection.
Main Results:
- Confirmed the presence of Candidatus Anaplasma turritanum.
- Revealed the emergence of Candidatus Anaplasma cinensis.
- Identified an Anaplasma phagocytophilum-like strain (A. phagocytophilum-like 2) in Sardinian horses and cattle.
Conclusions:
- Findings underscore the importance of ongoing surveillance in Sardinia and Mediterranean regions.
- There is an urgent need for enhanced diagnostic tools and preventive strategies.
- Increased vigilance is crucial for both veterinary and human health due to the zoonotic potential of emerging strains.
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