Experimental Brucella canis infection in the monkey (Macaca arctoides).

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Medicine
• Infectious Diseases
• Primate Research

Background:

• Brucella canis is a zoonotic pathogen causing brucellosis.
• Understanding macaque susceptibility is crucial for preventing human exposure.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the pathogenesis of Brucella canis infection in stumptail macaques.
• To assess the duration of bacteremia, antibody response, and tissue distribution of B. canis.

Main Methods:

• Four stumptail macaques were inoculated with Brucella canis (oral/conjunctival or intravenous).
• Hematological, serological, and bacteriological analyses were performed weekly.
• Tissue cultures were conducted at necropsy (5 and 10 weeks post-inoculation).

Main Results:

• Brucella canis was isolated from peripheral blood up to seven weeks post-inoculation.
• All infected macaques developed significant neutralizing antibody titers.
• B. canis was isolated from tissues, including the uterus, in animals necropsied at five weeks.
• Focal granulomatous lesions were observed in the liver, spleen, and lymphoid tissues.

Conclusions:

• Stumptail macaques are susceptible to Brucella canis infection, exhibiting prolonged bacteremia and seroconversion.
• Tissue colonization, including reproductive organs, suggests potential for transmission.
• Findings highlight the zoonotic potential and risks associated with Brucella canis exposure.