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Characterization of ehrlichial organisms isolated from a wild mouse
M Kawahara1, C Suto, Y Rikihisa
1Nagoya City Public Health Research Institute, Japan.
Journal of Clinical Microbiology
|January 1, 1993
Summary
A novel infectious agent causing splenomegaly in mice was isolated from wild rodents. This agent, resembling Ehrlichia, suggests wild mice may be reservoirs for new pathogenic ehrlichiae.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Microbiology
- Infectious Diseases
- Rodent Pathogens
Background:
- An infectious agent was isolated from the spleen of wild mice (Eothenomys kageus).
- The agent caused splenomegaly in laboratory mice upon serial passage.
Purpose of the Study:
- To characterize a novel infectious agent isolated from wild mice.
- To determine the taxonomic and pathogenic potential of this agent.
Main Methods:
- Isolation and serial passage in laboratory mice.
- Inactivation studies at different temperatures.
- Antimicrobial susceptibility testing.
- Electron microscopy of infected macrophages.
- Indirect fluorescent-antibody tests and Western blotting.
Main Results:
- The agent exhibited cytoplasmic inclusion bodies and pleomorphic cocci morphology, similar to ehrlichiae.
- Tetracyclines were effective, while penicillin and sulfonamides were not.
- Serological tests showed cross-reactivity with Ehrlichia canis and Ehrlichia sennetsu.
- Western blotting identified shared protein antigens with E. canis.
Conclusions:
- The agent represents a potential new species within the Ehrlichieae tribe.
- Wild rodents may serve as reservoirs for pathogenic ehrlichiae, including this new species.
- This discovery expands our understanding of Ehrlichia diversity and host-pathogen interactions.