Parasit Vectors [JOURNAL]
Sun
200 papers
Assessing the susceptibility of 200 Rhipicephalus microplus populations to fluralaner using larval immersion test: A nationwide analysis from Brazil.
Chagas HDF, de Santana AM, Gomes GW … +12 more , Ascenção ACL, Souza EM, Faria LCF, Barrozo MM, Teixeira ALC, de Castro Rodrigues D, de Almeida Borges F, Costa-Junior LM, Ferreira LL, de Azevedo Prata MC, Lopes WDZ, Monteiro C
Parasit Vectors · 2026 Apr · PMID 41992371 · Full text
BACKGROUND: In 2022, a tick control product, against Rhipicephalus microplus, containing fluralaner as the active ingredient was initially launched in the Brazilian market, followed by other markets across Latin America....
BACKGROUND: In 2022, a tick control product, against Rhipicephalus microplus, containing fluralaner as the active ingredient was initially launched in the Brazilian market, followed by other markets across Latin America. Once a new molecule is introduced for the control of a parasitic organism, it becomes essential to develop methods for assessing the susceptibility of target parasitic populations. In this context, discriminating dose (DD) tests represent a valuable tool. METHODS: This study evaluated the susceptibility profile of 200 R. microplus populations originating from 21 federal units (20 states and a federal district) across all five regions of Brazil, using a larval immersion test (LIT) with two discriminating doses (DD) of 1.55 and 3.16 µg/mL. Populations showing mortality rates above 95% were classified as susceptible. A field trial was also conducted with one population (São José do Rio Pardo [SJRP]), which had a known history of exposure to fluralaner, to compare laboratory and field test outcomes. RESULTS: The DD at a concentration of 1.55 µg/mL resulted in 100% mortality in 160 populations (80%), whereas the DD at a concentration of 3.16 µg/mL showed more consistent results, with 100% mortality in 182 populations (91%). In the field trial population, SJRP, fluralaner achieved 100% therapeutic efficacy (days +7 to +21) and persistent efficacy (days +28 to +42). CONCLUSIONS: LIT using DDs can provide indicative data on the susceptibility of R. microplus to fluralaner. The discriminating dose at a concentration of 3.16 µg/mL was shown to be the most appropriate for monitoring the susceptibility of R. microplus populations to fluralaner. Laboratory and field data support the classification of the SJRP population as susceptible, demonstrating consistency between the two sets of results. These results can serve as a basis for continuous spatial and temporal monitoring of the susceptibility of R. microplus populations to fluralaner. Continued research, integrating laboratory and field results, is essential to increase the reliability of laboratory-based testing.
Dogs as sentinel hosts for sand-fly-borne infections in the Mediterranean Basin: a multinational serological survey.
Oliva G, Bongiorno G, Ayhan N … +54 more , Kolářová I, Foglia-Manzillo V, Kirstein OD, Jelínková K, Dvořáková B, Risueño J, Verdú-Serrano E, Pérez-Cutillas P, Cristóvão JM, Alcover Amengual MM, Arserim SK, Barandika Iza J, Cazapal C, Cevidanes Miranda A, Cuadrado Matías R, Delacour Estrella S, Díaz-Sáez V, Elbaz S, Fernández G, Fisa R, Garrido J, Gizzarelli M, Fortuna C, Scalone A, Mangiapelo C, Bernardini I, Orsini S, Amendola A, Venturi G, Di Muccio T, Kurum E, Lucientes J, Martínez Y, Martinković F, Martín-Sánchez J, Morales-Yuste M, Nachum-Biala Y, Paz Silva A, Pekağırbaş M, Polina A, Roca-Geronès X, Fons FR, Sánchez Andrade R, Torres-Llamas A, Yetişmiş K, Živičnjak T, Ivović V, Baneth G, Charrel R, Özbel Y, Töz S, Volf P, Maia C, Berriatua E
Parasit Vectors · 2026 Apr · PMID 41992353 · Full text
BACKGROUND: Phlebotomine sand-fly-borne infections are an emerging threat to human and animal health in Mediterranean countries, highlighting the need for improved surveillance and control strategies. Dogs are ideal sent...
BACKGROUND: Phlebotomine sand-fly-borne infections are an emerging threat to human and animal health in Mediterranean countries, highlighting the need for improved surveillance and control strategies. Dogs are ideal sentinel hosts owing to their central role in the transmission of zoonotic Leishmania infantum, frequent exposure to sand fly bites, capacity to develop antibodies to phleboviruses, and close contact with humans. This study reports cross-sectional surveys of antibodies to Leishmania, Toscana virus (TOSV), and Sicilian sand fly virus (SFSV) in dogs from Portugal, Spain, Italy, Croatian Istria, Turkey, and Israel, as well as antibodies to salivary proteins of Phlebotomus perniciosus (Portugal, Spain, and Italy) and Phlebotomus papatasi (Spain and Italy), conducted within the Climate Monitoring and Decision Support Framework for the Detection and Mitigation of Sand fly Diseases with Cost-Benefit and Climate Policy Measures (CLIMOS) project. METHODS: Blood samples and epidemiological data were collected from 2500 dogs. Antibodies to Leishmania were detected by indirect immunofluorescence, phlebovirus antibodies by seroneutralization assays, and antibodies to P. perniciosus and P. papatasi salivary antigens by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) using recombinant proteins rSP03B and rSP36, respectively. Sources of antibody variability were evaluated using mixed-effects logistic regression models. RESULTS: Antibodies to L. infantum, phleboviruses, and sand fly saliva were widely detected, although seroprevalence varied markedly by region. No Leishmania-seropositive dogs were found in Istria, parts of northern Spain, or several districts in Israel, whereas seroprevalence exceeded 30% in Sicily and in several Turkish and Spanish provinces. TOSV seropositivity was generally absent or below 5%, except in southern Spain (8-24%) and Muğla, Turkey (10%). SFSV exposure was highly focal, occurring mainly in Turkey (12%), Israel (12%), and Lisbon (7%). Exposure to P. perniciosus was very high in Portugal, Sicily, and most of Spain, while P. papatasi exposure was highest in Sicily and selected Spanish regions. Antibody variability was driven primarily by geographical location. CONCLUSIONS: The marked geographical heterogeneity observed confirms dogs as valuable sentinels for sand-fly-borne infections. These infections are highly clustered across Mediterranean regions, likely reflecting differences in sand fly density and infection rates. Understanding the drivers of this heterogeneity is essential for accurate risk mapping and effective control strategies.
A targeted amplicon sequencing panel for cost-effective high-throughput genotyping of Aedes aegypti.
Daron J, Lecuyer A, Ma L … +6 more , Marzooghi P, Breban MI, Kyrylos P, Donovan-Banfield I, Redmond SN, Lambrechts L
Parasit Vectors · 2026 Apr · PMID 41987308 · Full text
BACKGROUND: The mosquito Aedes aegypti is the primary vector of several medically important arboviruses, including dengue, Zika, chikungunya, and yellow fever. Characterizing the genetic diversity of Ae. aegypti is essen...
BACKGROUND: The mosquito Aedes aegypti is the primary vector of several medically important arboviruses, including dengue, Zika, chikungunya, and yellow fever. Characterizing the genetic diversity of Ae. aegypti is essential to understand its evolutionary history and population dynamics and to evaluate vector control strategies. However, whole-genome sequencing (WGS) is often cost-prohibitive at scale due to the species' large genome size. Reduced-representation approaches offer a cost-effective alternative, yet a standardized genome-wide marker set for population genetic studies of Ae. aegypti is lacking. METHODS: We developed a targeted amplicon sequencing panel for cost-effective, high-throughput genotyping across 291 loci distributed throughout the Ae. aegypti genome. We evaluated its performance by comparing patterns of population structure and genetic admixture inferred from the amplicon sequences with those obtained from WGS data. RESULTS: In silico analyses demonstrate that the amplicon panel reliably reproduces population structure patterns typically observed with WGS. It also effectively distinguishes among diverse laboratory colonies of Ae. aegypti and yields individual genetic admixture estimates consistent with WGS results. CONCLUSIONS: This targeted amplicon sequencing panel enables high-throughput genotyping at reduced cost and provides a practical alternative to WGS for population genetic and genomic surveillance studies. It should facilitate large-scale genotyping of Ae. aegypti, particularly in resource-limited settings.
Impact of environmental and socioeconomic factors on the prevalence of and DALYs due to cutaneous leishmaniasis globally from 1990 to 2021 based on remote sensing and GIS technologies.
Chen X, Xie B, Cui Y … +4 more , Li H, Wang X, Zhou J, Lu Z
Parasit Vectors · 2026 Apr · PMID 41987236 · Full text
BACKGROUND: Leishmaniasis, a parasitic disease caused by Leishmania spp., is a major public health threat. The synergistic effects of environmental and socioeconomic factors on the global distribution of leishmaniasis ar...
BACKGROUND: Leishmaniasis, a parasitic disease caused by Leishmania spp., is a major public health threat. The synergistic effects of environmental and socioeconomic factors on the global distribution of leishmaniasis are unknown. METHODS: Applying epidemiological data on cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) from the Global Burden of Disease 2021 database, we used spatial autocorrelation and standard deviation ellipses to explore the spatiotemporal clustering and migration patterns of CL. Four remote sensing-retrieved environmental factors and five socioeconomic factors were selected for analysis. Spearman's correlation coefficient was used to screen for factors correlated with the prevalence of and disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) due to CL. Ordinary least squares (OLS), geographically weighted regression (GWR) and geographically and temporally weighted regression (GTWR) were used to assess the impact of the influencing factors on the prevalence of and DALYs due to CL. RESULTS: From 1990 to 2008, the global prevalence of and DALYs due to CL exhibited significant positive spatial autocorrelation (Z > 1.96, P < 0.05). Prevalence and DALYs both had one cold spot, located in northern Africa, and two hot spots, located in Central America and Central Asia. Temperature, infant mortality rate (IMR) and humidity were significantly positively correlated with the prevalence of and DALYs due to CL, whereas gross domestic product (GDP) and surface solar radiation (SSR) were significantly negatively correlated with the latter. The GTWR model demonstrated the best regression performance, with adjusted R values for prevalence reaching 0.841, 0.984, 0.839 and 0.972, and those for DALYs reaching 0.816, 0.966, 0.837 and 0.972 in Asia, Europe, the Americas and Africa, respectively. Regression coefficients further quantified the individual contributions of each factor to the prevalence of and DALYs due to CL, which could provide a scientific basis for governments to implement targeted control of CL. CONCLUSIONS: To our knowledge, this study is the first to analyze the global spatiotemporal distribution patterns of the prevalence of and DALYs due to CL and quantitatively study the spatiotemporal effects of environmental and socioeconomic factors on CL on a global scale. Environmental (temperature, SSR and humidity) and socioeconomic (GDP and IMR) factors were significantly correlated with the prevalence of and DALYs due to CL. The GTWR model outperformed the GWR and OLS models, further confirming the spatiotemporal effects of influencing factors on CL.
Functional characterization of 11 novel rhoptry proteins in the type I RH strain of Toxoplasma gondii using the CRISPR-Cas9 system.
Song HY, Cao H, Huang SB … +6 more , Elsheikha HM, Zheng Z, Lu XS, Tian X, Zheng XN, Zhu XQ
Parasit Vectors · 2026 Apr · PMID 41975467 · Full text
BACKGROUND: Rhoptry proteins (ROPs) are secreted effectors that play important roles in the virulence of Toxoplasma gondii by facilitating host cell invasion and immune modulation. Although many ROPs have been predicted,...
BACKGROUND: Rhoptry proteins (ROPs) are secreted effectors that play important roles in the virulence of Toxoplasma gondii by facilitating host cell invasion and immune modulation. Although many ROPs have been predicted, their specific functions remain largely unexplored. This study investigates the roles of 11 previously uncharacterized ROPs in T. gondii biology, with a focus on their contributions to virulence. METHODS: Clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR)-CRISPR-associated protein 9 (Cas9)-mediated genome editing was employed to generate epitope-tagged and knockout mutants for each candidate ROP in the T. gondii RHΔku80 strain. Subcellular localization was determined via immunofluorescence microscopy in both tachyzoite and bradyzoite stages. In vitro assays assessed parasite invasion, replication, egress, and plaque formation. In vivo virulence was evaluated in mouse infection models. To explore molecular mechanisms underlying virulence attenuation, we performed transcriptomic profiling of RHΔrop64 and RHΔrop65 knockout strains. RESULTS: All 11 candidate ROPs exhibited rhoptry localization in both tachyzoite and bradyzoite stages. Despite no apparent in vitro growth defects, deletion of ROP64 and ROP65 led to significant attenuation of virulence in mice, with ROP64 showing the most pronounced effect. Transcriptome analysis revealed downregulation of key immune-modulatory genes, including ROP5, ROP39, TgIST, and PLP1. In addition, RHΔrop64 exhibited broader suppression of ROPs than RHΔrop65, suggesting it has a more pronounced role in immune modulation. CONCLUSIONS: ROP64 and ROP65 are critical to T. gondii virulence, likely through modulation of the parasite's immune-evasive machinery. Their regulatory influence on effector expression underscores their importance in host adaptation. Importantly, the RHΔrop64 mutant displays characteristics of an attenuated strain with potential for vaccine development against toxoplasmosis.
Dynamic landscape of microRNA expression in the feline small intestine during Toxoplasma gondii infection.
Zhai B, Bao B, Xie SC … +7 more , Yang H, Liu Y, Wang W, Zhou Y, Li B, He J, Zhang J
Parasit Vectors · 2026 Apr · PMID 41965856 · Full text
BACKGROUND: Toxoplasma gondii, an obligate intracellular parasite with felids as its definitive hosts, undergoes sexual reproduction and oocyst shedding in the feline small intestine, a critical stage for its transmissio...
BACKGROUND: Toxoplasma gondii, an obligate intracellular parasite with felids as its definitive hosts, undergoes sexual reproduction and oocyst shedding in the feline small intestine, a critical stage for its transmission. Small non-coding RNAs, particularly microRNAs (miRNAs), are crucial post-transcriptional regulators in host-pathogen interactions, but their role in the definitive host's intestine during T. gondii infection remains unexplored. METHODS: Fifteen cats were divided into control, primary infection (6, 10, 14 days post-infection, DPI), and secondary infection (SI) groups. Infection was confirmed via B1 gene polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Small RNA sequencing was performed on the ileal epithelium. Bioinformatics analyses identified known and novel miRNAs, differential expression, target genes, and enriched pathways. Key miRNA-messenger RNA (mRNA) interactions were validated by dual-luciferase assay, and sequencing results were confirmed by quantitative PCR (qPCR). RESULTS: Successful infection was molecularly confirmed. Sequencing identified 2666 miRNAs (2575 known, 91 novel). A dynamic pattern of differentially expressed (DE) miRNAs was observed, with peaks at 6 DPI (126), 10 DPI (122), 14DPI (36) and SI DPI (237), coinciding with active oocyst shedding. Key miRNAs like hsa-miR-199b-5p and ssc-miR-199b-5p were persistently downregulated. Target prediction and network analysis revealed complex interactions, including miR-199b-5p targeting CYTH1 and COQ7. Functional enrichment highlighted significant involvement of target genes in the Rap1 and AMPK signaling pathways, as well as processes related to development and cellular organization. The novel_538-CNN2 interaction was experimentally validated. CONCLUSIONS: This study provides the first comprehensive profile of miRNA expression in the feline small intestine during T. gondii infection. The temporal dynamics and specific dysregulation of miRNAs, coupled with enrichment in key pathways controlling cell adhesion and metabolism, suggest that T. gondii could orchestrate a sophisticated post-transcriptional program in its definitive host to potentially modify the intestinal environment for successful oocyst production and shedding. These findings lay the groundwork for future functional studies regarding the interplay between T. gondii and its definitive hosts.
De novo genome assembly and annotation of Gnathostoma spinigerum.
González-Bertolín B, Monzón S, Zaballos Á … +12 more , Jiménez P, Dekumyoy P, Adisakwattana P, Varona S, Cuesta I, Sumanam SB, Sotillo J, Hernández-González A, Marcos-Alcalde I, Gómez-Puertas P, Young ND, Perteguer MJ
Parasit Vectors · 2026 Apr · PMID 41965752 · Full text
BACKGROUND: Gnathostoma spinigerum is a parasitic nematode implicated in human cases of eosinophilic meningitis. This species is primarily endemic to Thailand and frequently occurs in other regions as imported cases. Alt...
BACKGROUND: Gnathostoma spinigerum is a parasitic nematode implicated in human cases of eosinophilic meningitis. This species is primarily endemic to Thailand and frequently occurs in other regions as imported cases. Although this parasite poses a significant pathogenic risk, its genome has not yet been assembled or annotated. The aim of our study is to generate the first genome assembly of G. spinigerum. METHODS: Whole-genome sequence libraries were generated from genomic DNA extracted from a pooled sample of advanced stage 3 larvae. After sequencing, the assembly of the genome was produced using a combination of second- and third-generation sequencing technologies. Multiple draft assemblies were generated and evaluated, and the absence of contamination was determined. Identification and modeling of new G. spinigerum metalloproteinases and tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases were performed, and molecular dynamics simulations were used to analyze their potential interactions. The final assembly was annotated and made publicly available via the NCBI genome database. RESULTS: The hybrid assembly approach (using short and long reads) using the SPAdes assembler and with post-assembly polishing (Pilon/Picard) yielded the most complete genome (222-Mb genome size, N50 = 14,149 bp, 69.6% BUSCO assembly). A total of 14,451 protein-coding genes were predicted in the G. spinigerum genome with 62.3% BUSCO annotation completeness. Three-dimensional computational modeling and molecular dynamics of six new metalloproteinases and two new tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases are presented. CONCLUSIONS: We provide the first sequence assembly and annotation for the nematode G. spinigerum. This draft genome will be an essential resource for future scientific and applied investigations of diseases caused by this parasite.
Revisiting the largest human leishmaniasis outbreak in Western Europe (Madrid, Spain): a follow-up entomological study in 2023 and 2024.
Risueño J, Verdú-Serrano E, Alessandra M … +10 more , Pérez-Cutillas P, Molina R, Jimenez M, Martín-Martín I, Porcelli S, Robert-Gangneux F, Veiga J, Figuerola J, la Puente JM, Berriatua E
Parasit Vectors · 2026 Apr · PMID 41965749 · Full text
BACKGROUND: During the 2010s, Madrid experienced an outbreak of human leishmaniasis by Leishmania infantum, which affected at least 824 people until 2024 and peaked between 2010 and 2012. It was associated with a high de...
BACKGROUND: During the 2010s, Madrid experienced an outbreak of human leishmaniasis by Leishmania infantum, which affected at least 824 people until 2024 and peaked between 2010 and 2012. It was associated with a high density of infected Phlebotomus perniciosus sand fly vectors and, unusually, with rabbits and hares as the primary parasite reservoirs. In 2023 and 2024 we investigated sand fly species distribution, L. infantum infection rates, and bloodmeal sources in the outbreak area and compared the results with a similar study conducted in 2012-2014. METHODS: The four sand fly surveillance sites used in 2012-2014 were revisited monthly between April and November 2023 and 2024. Sand flies were collected using CDC light traps and morphologically identified. Leishmania spp. infection and bloodmeal sources in female sand flies were molecularly tested. RESULTS: In total, 5429 sand flies (2542 in 2023 and 2887 in 2024, 39% female) were collected, peaking in August and September. Overall, 72% of the captures were of P. perniciosus, 28% Sergentomyia minuta, < 1% Phlebotomus ariasi, and < 1% Phlebotomus langeroni. Leishmania infantum was confirmed in P. perniciosus and the estimated infection prevalence (95% CL) was 10% (7-13%). Blood sources of P. perniciosus were 80% (n = 51) rabbits, 11% (n = 7) humans, 6% (n = 4) hares, and 3% (n = 2) cats. Overall, 25%, 20%, and 19% of sand flies containing hare, human, and rabbit blood were Leishmania PCR-positive, respectively. The annual density of P. perniciosus in 2023-2024 was approximately half that observed in 2012 and comparable to levels in 2013 and 2014. In both 2012-2014 and 2023-2024 studies, L. infantum infection rates in P. perniciosus were similar, and lagomorphs accounted for most bloodmeals. CONCLUSIONS: Although the number of human leishmaniasis cases and the population of hares have been drastically reduced in the outbreak area, P. perniciosus densities and L. infantum infection rates in 2023-2024 in the sampling sites remain like those in 2012-2014; rabbits persist as a major bloodmeal source and probable reservoir of infection, maintaining human exposure to infected vectors. These results underscore the importance of sustained sand fly surveillance in this hotspot to inform public health decision-making and guide targeted control strategies.
Pathogen screening of Zambian ticks: new insights on the occurrence of tick-borne pathogens in the country.
Makayi C, Simainga S, Mertens-Scholz K … +9 more , Chitimia-Dobler L, Fischer S, Labruna MB, Mans BJ, Dautu G, Brangsch H, Simuunza M, Groschup MH, Schulz A
Parasit Vectors · 2026 Apr · PMID 41964061 · Full text
BACKGROUND: Ticks are important ectoparasites for both humans and animals and can also transmit a wide range of different viral, bacterial, and parasitic pathogens, which are commonly known as "tick-borne pathogens" (TBP...
BACKGROUND: Ticks are important ectoparasites for both humans and animals and can also transmit a wide range of different viral, bacterial, and parasitic pathogens, which are commonly known as "tick-borne pathogens" (TBPs). In Zambia (Southern Africa), a number of studies have been conducted on TBPs, but information on their distribution and genetic variation is still incomplete. METHODS: Between 2022 and 2023, 588 ticks were collected in 3 provinces from the environment/vegetation via flagging as well as from cattle and wild host species (buffaloes and tortoises). After tick species identification and DNA/RNA extraction, the samples were tested for viral (orthonairo-, flavi- and arenaviruses) and bacterial (Rickettsia, Anaplasma, Ehrlichia, and Coxiella) pathogens using different polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assays. Subsequently, positive samples were sequenced and analyzed on the basis of different genes (rrs (16S rRNA); 23S-5S intergenic spacer region; ompB; gltA; sca4). RESULTS: Apart from some Hyalomma and Amblyomma species, most of the ticks collected belonged to the genus Rhipicephalus, in which Rhipicephalus appendiculatus made up the largest proportions. No viral RNA was detected inside the ticks, but Rickettsia (Ri. africae, Ri. aeschlimannii, Ri. sibirica, Ri. tamurae-like agent), Anaplasma (An. bovis, An. marginale, An. platys, An. phagocytophilum-like agent), and Ehrlichia species (Eh. ruminantium, Eh. chaffeensis-like agent) were most frequently found. CONCLUSIONS: Many of the pathogens found had already been described in Zambia. Nevertheless, there were some unexpected findings. The detection of Ri. sibirica (ompB and 23S-5S spacer region; in ticks from cattle) or Eh. chaffeensis-like amplicons (rrs; in a questing Rh. appendiculatus tick) may suggest that some pathogens or closely related species might be more widespread than previously assumed. In addition to these rarely described pathogens in Africa, further studies should be carried out on the detection of TBPs of viral origin.
Epidemiology, morphology, and molecular characterization of Stephanurus dentatus (Nematoda: Syngamidae) in wild boars from southwestern South Korea.
Ahn KS, Ahn AJ, Lee SH … +3 more , Kwak D, Lee J, Shin S
Parasit Vectors · 2026 Apr · PMID 41964016 · Full text
BACKGROUND: Stephanurus dentatus Diesing, 1839 (Nematoda: Syngamidae), commonly known as the swine kidney worm, parasitizes the renal pelvis, ureters, and perirenal fat of pigs and wild boars, occasionally causing severe...
BACKGROUND: Stephanurus dentatus Diesing, 1839 (Nematoda: Syngamidae), commonly known as the swine kidney worm, parasitizes the renal pelvis, ureters, and perirenal fat of pigs and wild boars, occasionally causing severe pathological effects. Despite reports of low prevalence in domestic pigs in South Korea, no epidemiological data exist for wild boars. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence, morphology, and molecular characteristics of S. dentatus infection in wild boars from the southwestern regions of South Korea. METHODS: A total of 167 wild boars were examined between 2009 and 2019. Kidneys, ureters, and perirenal fat were dissected, and worms were collected for morphological analysis using light and scanning electron microscopy. Molecular identification was conducted via polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and sequencing of the 18S rRNA gene. Phylogenetic analyses were performed to assess taxonomic placement. Morphological identification keys were provided for both the traditional family Syngamidae and the revised family Chabertiidae. RESULTS: Stephanurus dentatus was detected in 38.3% of the examined wild boars (64/167), with a mean intensity of 6.8 worms per infected animal. Morphological analyses of adult worms revealed characteristics consistent with previous descriptions, including the corona radiata, the vulva located posteriorly in females, and a rudimentary copulatory bursa in males. Molecular analyses confirmed 99.7-99.9% identity with reference sequences and supported placement of S. dentatus within the family Chabertiidae. Revised identification keys based on morphology were provided. CONCLUSIONS: This study provides the first epidemiological data on S. dentatus in wild boars in South Korea, demonstrating a substantial prevalence and potential risk for transmission to domestic pigs. Detailed morphological descriptions, identification keys, and molecular analyses presented here contribute valuable information for faunistic, taxonomic, and parasitological studies of S. dentatus.
PfVPS4, an ESCRT AAA-ATPase, is essential for asexual proliferation and gametocyte sexual conversion in Plasmodium falciparum.
Yang W, Wu J, Zhou Y … +3 more , Yu Z, Shang X, Huang J
Parasit Vectors · 2026 Apr · PMID 41957628 · Full text
BACKGROUND: Malaria, caused by Plasmodium spp., remains a major global health threat. Among them, Plasmodium falciparum is the most pathogenic, and its asexual intraerythrocytic proliferation is the pathological basis. T...
BACKGROUND: Malaria, caused by Plasmodium spp., remains a major global health threat. Among them, Plasmodium falciparum is the most pathogenic, and its asexual intraerythrocytic proliferation is the pathological basis. This process has enormous biosynthetic demands and highly relies on the coordinated function of the endomembrane and vesicular transport systems. The transition from asexual proliferation to sexual differentiation similarly involves remodeling of internal membrane complexes, membrane reshaping, and precise protein sorting. In eukaryotic cells, the Endosomal Sorting Complexes Required for Transport (ESCRT) complex is a core machinery for membrane remodeling and endosomal development. However, how the ESCRT system regulates the complex life cycle of Plasmodium, particularly during intraerythrocytic proliferation and sexual conversion, remains an important unresolved question. METHODS: In this study, using Plasmodium falciparum as a model system, we applied CRISPR-Cas9-mediated homologous recombination to achieve conditional knockdown of PfVPS4, the core ATPase of the ESCRT complex - vacuolar protein sorting-associated protein 4 (PfVPS4). Western blotting and immunofluorescence assays were used to assess PfVPS4 abundance and subcellular localization. Tightly synchronized cultures were used to evaluate its effects on parasite growth, merozoite numbers, and gametocyte conversion rate. In vitro protein purification, enzyme kinetics, and site-directed mutagenesis were performed to identify the impact of key residues on PfVPS4 ATPase activity and to validate the synergistic activation by its cofactor PfVta1. In addition, multiple sequence alignment and AlphaFold3 modeling were used to predict and display structural features before and after mutation of key sites. RESULTS: We successfully generated conditional knockdown lines in both Pf3D7 and PfNF54 parasite strains, enabling effective knockdown at different stages of the intraerythrocytic cycle and during gametocytogenesis. Knockdown of PfVPS4 led to an 84% reduction in asexual progeny parasite numbers, decreased merozoite numbers, and a 46% reduction in gametocyte conversion rate, without affecting subsequent gametocyte maturation. Biochemical assays showed that PfVPS4 ATPase activity is optimal at pH 7.5 and 37°C, and is dependent on Mg²⁺, with a Vmax of 2.23 ± 0.053 U/mg and a Km of 0.086 mM. Site-directed mutagenesis validated the essential role of the canonical catalytic residues (D213, E214) and the species-specific key residues (T161, I288) in maintaining enzymatic activity, and confirmed that the cofactor PfVta1 significantly enhances PfVPS4 activity. CONCLUSION: PfVPS4 is essential for normal asexual blood-stage replication and efficient sexual conversion in Plasmodium falciparum. Its knockdown severely disrupts intraerythrocytic proliferative homeostasis and reduces gametocyte conversion, indicating that this protein has a broader role in coordinating parasite proliferation and transmission. Given its essentiality, species‑specific residues, and regulation by PfVta1, PfVPS4 and its complex are attractive antimalarial drug targets.
In vitro and in vivo acaricidal properties of orally delivered ivermectin against the blacklegged tick, Ixodes scapularis.
van Oosterwijk JG, Richer L, Beimfohr-Griffing LK … +1 more , Li AY
Parasit Vectors · 2026 Apr · PMID 41952226 · Full text
BACKGROUND: The lack of effective and affordable new environmental tick control products is one of the major challenges to the existing control strategies against the blacklegged tick (Ixodes scapularis), the vector of L...
BACKGROUND: The lack of effective and affordable new environmental tick control products is one of the major challenges to the existing control strategies against the blacklegged tick (Ixodes scapularis), the vector of Lyme disease affecting public health in the United States. Ivermectin is a systemic antiparasitic pesticide that has been used successfully to control biting flies and ticks infesting livestock. Ivermectin-treated corn has also been shown to be effective against adult ticks feeding on deer. The goal of this study was to assess acaricidal properties of orally delivered ivermectin against the blacklegged tick, Ixodes scapularis, for the development of a new mouse bait formulation to control immature stages of the blacklegged tick. METHODS: The efficacy of orally delivered ivermectin against I. scapularis was evaluated through in vitro capillary feeding tick-feeding experiments and in vivo animal trials using laboratory-bred white-footed mouse, Peromyscus leucopus. Capillary feeding of adult females and nymphs with different concentrations (18.8-600 ppb) of ivermectin resolved in rabbit blood were performed to ascertain necessary ivermectin plasma levels to kill adult and nymphal ticks. Mouse baits dosed with two different ivermectin concentrations (24 and 48 ppm) were fed to mice to analyze the pharmacokinetic properties of ivermectin in mouse serum via HPLC analysis. Subsequent tick-challenge trials were conducted to determine the impact of ingested ivermectin mouse bait against larval or nymphal ticks feeding on the mice. RESULTS: Ixodes scapularis females capillary-fed with rabbit blood containing 300 and 600 ppb demonstrated a significantly higher tick mortality starting at 72 h after the start of capillary feeding. Such ivermectin concentrations also significantly reduced blood-feeding of adult females, as determined by reduced fecal production and engorgement scores. Nymphal capillary feeding experiments were unsuccessful as nymphal ticks in both the control and treatment groups died, likely because of desiccation. In the mouse trials, ivermectin reached peak serum concentrations of 650 ppb and 6715 ppb, respectively, at 2 h after consumption of a single treated pellet containing 80 µg (24 ppm) and 160 µg (48 ppm) ivermectin, respectively. Ivermectin was rapidly depleted from mouse blood with a half-life of < 6 h. Mouse trials showed that ivermectin activity was most effective in controlling larval and nymphal feeding when mice consumed ivermectin-treated bait 24 h before or after tick challenge, with the best results observed in mice fed 48 ppm ivermectin. When larvae were placed 48 h after mice had consumed ivermectin bait, no difference in feeding was observed compared to control. CONCLUSIONS: Results from in vitro and in vivo experiments demonstrated the oral efficacy of ivermectin against different developmental stages of the blacklegged tick. The acaricidal effects of ivermectin against I. scapularis nymphs and larvae feeding on white-footed mice, as observed in the mouse trials, may be considered preliminary, and further laboratory and field studies are necessary to validate the utility of an ivermectin-based mouse bait formulation for controlling of immature I. scapularis ticks feeding on mice. To our knowledge, this is the first study to show the oral efficacy and PK analysis of ivermectin in mice. This study found that, although efficacious against tick feeding in the first 24 h, ivermectin has a very short half-life in mice and therefore has a short therapeutic window. This study provides important information for the development of mouse bait to control ticks and tick-borne diseases.
Hepatozoon martis in Italy: first evidence based on histopathological characterization and molecular confirmation in Martes foina.
Dini FM, Rojas A, Muscatello LV … +5 more , Galuppi R, Torri D, Scremin M, Bassi P, Maioli G
Parasit Vectors · 2026 Apr · PMID 41952223 · Full text
BACKGROUND: Hepatozoon martis is an apicomplexan parasite infecting mustelids, but its geographical distribution and pathological relevance remain incompletely understood. To date, its presence in Italy has not been docu...
BACKGROUND: Hepatozoon martis is an apicomplexan parasite infecting mustelids, but its geographical distribution and pathological relevance remain incompletely understood. To date, its presence in Italy has not been documented. This study aimed to investigate the occurrence of H. martis in martens from northern and central Italy using an integrated pathological and molecular approach. METHODS: Between 2023 and 2025, carcasses of 17 martens (Martes spp.) collected within wildlife health surveillance programs were examined. Tissue samples were screened for apicomplexan DNA by qPCR, and conventional PCR targeting the 18S rDNA, followed by sequencing and phylogenetic analyses, were applied for species characterization. Histopathological examinations were performed on tissues from freshly deceased animals. RESULTS: Eight of 17 martens (47%), 16 identified as Martes foina and one Martes martes, tested positive for Hepatozoon infection. Sequencing confirmed H. martis in multiple tissues, including spleen, heart, lymph nodes, and muscle. Histopathological analysis revealed multifocal granulomatous myocarditis and myositis, with intracellular zoites and type II meronts observed within inflammatory lesions. Phylogenetic analyses of short and long 18S rDNA fragments showed that Italian isolates clustered with H. martis sequences from other European countries, displaying low genetic variability. Hepatozoon DNA was also detected in one Ixodes sp. collected from an infected animal. CONCLUSIONS: This study provides the first evidence to our knowledge of H. martis infection in Italy and highlights its pathogenic potential in stone martens. The low genetic diversity observed among European isolates suggests widespread circulation and gene flow across regions. Further investigations are required to elucidate transmission pathways, identify competent vectors, and assess the pathological significance of H. martis in wildlife.
Comparison of multilocus genotyping and a commercial beta-giardin qPCR assay for detection of Giardia duodenalis zoonotic assemblages in cat and dog samples.
Scorza AV, Leutenegger CM, Lozoya C … +4 more , Tereski J, Loo S, Castro PDJ, Lappin MR
Parasit Vectors · 2026 Apr · PMID 41952221 · Full text
BACKGROUND: Giardia duodenalis is a protozoan of dogs and cats that comprises several genotypes (assemblages A-G). The common assemblages affecting small animals (C, D, F, G) are not associated with disease in humans. Ho...
BACKGROUND: Giardia duodenalis is a protozoan of dogs and cats that comprises several genotypes (assemblages A-G). The common assemblages affecting small animals (C, D, F, G) are not associated with disease in humans. However, assemblages A and B can be zoonotic. Several assays can be used for detection of G. duodenalis, but there is a need for an accurate and faster detection method for G. duodenalis zoonotic assemblages. The aim of this study was to compare a beta-giardin quantitative polymerase chain reaction (PCR) (bg-qPCR) to a standard multilocus genotyping technique for detection of G. duodenalis zoonotic assemblages in dog and cat feces. METHODS: Canine and feline fecal samples submitted to a commercial laboratory (Antech Diagnostics) that tested positive for Giardia by centrifugal flotation, Giardia enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), and quantitative small subunit ribosomal ribonucleic acid PCR or those positive for Giardia spp. by a commercial direct fluorescent assay were included in this study (140 cases with zoonotic and non-zoonotic assemblages). The bg-qPCR assay was optimized and then all samples were assessed by both methods. Agreement among the two methods was assessed by Cohen's kappa agreement. RESULTS: A total of 140 samples that were previously positive for Giardia were analyzed by both bg-qPCR and multilocus genotyping. Both bg-qPCR and multilocus genotyping identified 70 of 76 (92.10%) of assemblage A and B samples. A total of 64 (n = 40 for assemblage A and n = 24 for assemblage B) of 76 samples yielded concordant results, with both diagnostic techniques giving a Cohen's kappa agreement value of 0.828. Non-zoonotic assemblages were amplified only by multilocus genotyping in 55 samples, and 9 samples were negative for both methods. Multilocus genotyping reported mixed infections in 23 cases and included A/D (1 dog), B/C (1 dog), B/F (1 dog; 2 cats), and C/D (18 dogs). CONCLUSIONS: For the zoonotic assemblages, the results between multilocus genotyping and the bg-qPCR agreed for most cases. These data support the bg-qPCR as a less expensive and laborious option to determine zoonotic Giardia A/B assemblages in feces of dogs and cats.
Haemaphysalis longicornis HSP20 inhibits Rickettsia heilongjiangensis replication by targeting the pathogen 50S ribosomal protein.
Zhang Y, Li LF, Zhu WJ … +9 more , Pei T, Wang H, Liang X, Tang Y, Wang C, Zhang S, Cao WC, Yu Z, Wang T
Parasit Vectors · 2026 Apr · PMID 41952186 · Full text
BACKGROUND: The tick Haemaphysalis longicornis is a major vector for several zoonotic pathogens, including Rickettsia heilongjiangensis. Small heat-shock proteins (sHSPs) are critical for stress responses and host-pathog...
BACKGROUND: The tick Haemaphysalis longicornis is a major vector for several zoonotic pathogens, including Rickettsia heilongjiangensis. Small heat-shock proteins (sHSPs) are critical for stress responses and host-pathogen interactions. Among them, the HSP20 gene was found upregulated during rickettsial infection, whereas its specific function at the host-pathogen interface remains undefined. METHODS: The full length of the HSP20 gene (HlHSP20) and its expression profile was characterized in H. longicornis, and RNA interference (RNAi) was used to knockdown HlHSP20, followed by the quantification of R. heilongjiangensis proliferation. Proteins from R. heilongjiangensis interacting with HlHSP20 were identified using GST pulldown coupled with liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) and validated by yeast two-hybrid (Y2H) assays. RESULTS: HlHSP20 is a conserved, non-transmembrane intracellular sHSP with a αB-crystallin domain, showing the highest expression in egg and larval stages. The knockdown of HlHSP20 significantly promoted the proliferation of R. heilongjiangensis, and interaction screening revealed that HlHSP20 specifically binds to the 50S ribosomal protein L14 (RhRPL14) of R. heilongjiangensis. CONCLUSIONS: The present study demonstrates that HlHSP20 acts as a host restriction factor against R. heilongjiangensis in H. longicornis, likely through a direct interaction with the pathogen ribosome protein. This work unveils a novel component of the antimicrobial defense of ticks and identifies HlHSP20 as a potential target for disrupting rickettsial transmission.
Efficacy of a novel chewable tablet (Credelio Quattro™) containing lotilaner, moxidectin, praziquantel, and pyrantel for the prevention of heartworm disease (Dirofilaria immitis) in dogs.
Young L, Reinemeyer CR, Abdelmoneim M … +1 more , Wiseman S
Parasit Vectors · 2026 Apr · PMID 41943128 · Full text
BACKGROUND: Canine heartworm (Dirofilaria immitis), a filarial parasite endemic in many countries worldwide, can cause life-threatening disease in dogs if left untreated. Two laboratory studies and one field study were c...
BACKGROUND: Canine heartworm (Dirofilaria immitis), a filarial parasite endemic in many countries worldwide, can cause life-threatening disease in dogs if left untreated. Two laboratory studies and one field study were conducted to evaluate the efficacy of Credelio Quattro, a novel chewable tablet containing moxidectin in combination with lotilaner, praziquantel and pyrantel, for the prevention of heartworm disease caused by D. immitis. METHODS: In the laboratory studies, dogs were inoculated with 50 D. immitis L3 larvae on Day - 30. Eight dogs per group were randomized to receive either a placebo or Credelio Quattro at the minimum effective dosage of 0.02 mg/kg moxidectin, 20 mg/kg lotilaner, 5 mg/kg praziquantel, and 5 mg/kg pyrantel on Day 0. One of the studies also included a lotilaner-only treated group to demonstrate non-interference. Efficacy was evaluated ~ 150 days post-inoculation utilizing adult heartworm counts collected at necropsy. The field study enrolled client-owned dogs, ≥ 8 eight weeks of age, weighing at least 1.5 kg, from 13 geographically diverse veterinary clinics throughout the USA. Dogs were randomized in a 1:1 ratio to receive either Credelio Quattro or a positive control product, Simparica Trio (moxidectin/sarolaner/pyrantel), at the recommended label dosages for 11 consecutive months. Efficacy was evaluated on Day 330 by assessing the detection of adult heartworm infections using antigen and microfilarial tests. RESULTS: In both laboratory studies, no adult heartworms were collected from any of the dogs treated with a single dose of Credelio Quattro. In contrast, all dogs treated with placebo (range 13-40) or lotilaner-only (range 9-42) had adults present. A total of 372 dogs were enrolled in the field study (191 Credelio Quattro, 181 Simparica Trio). At the end of the study, no dogs from either treatment group tested positive for adult heartworms. Credelio Quattro was well tolerated in all studies. CONCLUSIONS: The laboratory studies demonstrated Credelio Quattro as 100% effective for the prevention of heartworm disease caused by D. immitis in dogs. Additionally, no dogs in the field study tested positive for adult heartworm infection after 11 consecutive monthly doses of Credelio Quattro.
Characterization of the full-length transcriptome of female Eucoleus annulatus and comparative transcriptomic analysis of its head, middle, and tail body sections.
Wang YD, He JJ, Xu CR … +6 more , Wang LY, Yang JF, Wang P, Shu FF, Zou FC, Ma J
Parasit Vectors · 2026 Apr · PMID 41943112 · Full text
BACKGROUND: Eucoleus annulatus is a parasitic nematode that inhabits the upper digestive tract of avian hosts, posing significant threats to avian health and poultry production. However, the gene information and gene exp...
BACKGROUND: Eucoleus annulatus is a parasitic nematode that inhabits the upper digestive tract of avian hosts, posing significant threats to avian health and poultry production. However, the gene information and gene expression characteristics underlying its physiological specialization and parasitic adaptation remain poorly understood. METHODS: In this study, we applied an integrated transcriptomic approach to generate a high-quality full-length transcriptome of E. annulatus using PacBio Iso-Seq and to characterize body section-specific gene expression patterns using Illumina RNA sequencing (RNA-Seq). Differentially expressed transcripts (DETs) among its head, middle, and tail sections were identified, and their functional annotations were assessed through Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) enrichment analyses. RESULTS: PacBio Iso-Seq generated 21,951 high-confidence, non-redundant full-length transcript isoforms, among which 6921 were annotated in the Nr, Pfam, COG, KEGG, and GO databases. Comparative RNA-Seq analysis revealed pronounced section-specific transcriptional divergence, with 1570, 1533, and 1600 DETs enriched in the head, middle, and tail sections, respectively. DETs in the head were significantly enriched in pathways related to amino acid metabolism, RNA processing, and ion transport, while the DETs in the middle body section were primarily associated with glycolysis, oxidative phosphorylation, and transcriptional regulation, indicating elevated metabolic and transcriptional activity. DETs in the tail were significantly enriched in processes related to protein degradation, structural maintenance, and stress adaptation, suggesting roles in environmental response and physiological resilience. CONCLUSIONS: This study, for the first time, reports the first full-length transcriptome of E. annulatus and reveals distinct gene expression profiles across different body sections. These findings provide valuable molecular insights into the spatial organization of gene expression in E. annulatus and establish a foundation for studying its biology and host-parasite interactions in the future.
Therapeutic effects of IL-33/ST-2 pathway inhibition combined with albendazole on hepatic fibrosis and immune regulation in alveolar echinococcosis: in vivo and in vitro evidence.
Cheng SL, Ma XM, Wu BJ … +2 more , Yang YX, Fan HN
Parasit Vectors · 2026 Apr · PMID 41933369 · Full text
BACKGROUND: This study aimed to examine the role of the interleukin-33 (IL-33)/suppression of tumorigenicity 2 (ST-2) signaling pathway in hepatic fibrogenesis within the microenvironment of alveolar echinococcosis (AE)....
BACKGROUND: This study aimed to examine the role of the interleukin-33 (IL-33)/suppression of tumorigenicity 2 (ST-2) signaling pathway in hepatic fibrogenesis within the microenvironment of alveolar echinococcosis (AE). The therapeutic efficacy and immunomodulatory effects of concurrent IL-33/ST-2 pathway inhibition and albendazole (ABZ) treatment were also evaluated. METHODS: Protein expression levels of IL-33 and ST-2 in liver were examined in a murine model of AE using immunohistochemistry. Flow cytometry was used to detect the expression of IL-33 and ST-2 on eosinophils in the blood, liver, and spleen, respectively. Phagocytosis assays, migration assays, and western blot analysis were performed to investigate the effects of IL-33 and ST-2 on eosinophils and hepatic stellate cells, so as to evaluate their roles in hepatic fibrosis and eosinophil activity. Following targeted suppression of the IL-33/ST-2 signaling pathway in combination with ABZ administration, hepatic fibrosis in liver and therapeutic outcomes were assessed through Masson staining, western blot analysis, and liver index measurements. Immune function was assessed via spleen index evaluation and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay in blood, while hepatic function was assessed by measuring serum alanine aminotransferase and aspartate aminotransferase levels. RESULTS: The AE model demonstrated elevated expression of IL-33 and ST-2 in hepatic tissues. In vitro analyses indicated that IL-33 and ST-2 promoted profibrotic phenotypes, including upregulation of α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), in hepatic stellate cells, supporting their role in fibrosis development, and modulated eosinophil activity. Inhibition of IL-33/ST-2 expression, followed by ABZ administration, enhanced therapeutic efficacy, improved liver function parameters, and modulated immune responses in AE mice. Combined therapy led to superior outcomes compared with monotherapy, with evidence of reduced hepatic injury and restored immunological homeostasis. CONCLUSIONS: The IL-33/ST-2 signaling pathway contributes to the pathogenesis of hepatic fibrosis and immunological dysregulation in AE by influencing eosinophil function. Combined intervention targeting this pathway and albendazole administration confers enhanced therapeutic efficacy for AE, encompassing antifibrotic action, liver function recovery, and immune modulation.
Vector competence of Belgian Anopheles plumbeus mosquitoes for West Nile virus under different temperature conditions.
Goossens S, Sohier C, De Regge N
Parasit Vectors · 2026 Apr · PMID 41933367 · Full text
BACKGROUND: Belgium will likely be confronted with the introduction of West Nile virus (WNV) in the near future, as its presence in neighboring countries has been documented, and the high abundance of Culex pipiens, the...
BACKGROUND: Belgium will likely be confronted with the introduction of West Nile virus (WNV) in the near future, as its presence in neighboring countries has been documented, and the high abundance of Culex pipiens, the main vector of this virus, has been documented in Belgium as well. Other mosquito species, such as Anopheles plumbeus, could also play a role in disease transmission. Anopheles plumbeus is a tree hole-breeding species whose habitat is expanding to urban sites, thus increasing its contact with humans. Only limited data are available on the vector competence of this species for arboviruses, let alone WNV. Such knowledge is important with respect to risk assessments and a preparedness plan in case a WNV introduction in Belgium takes place. METHODS: A vector competence study with field-collected Belgian Anopheles plumbeus mosquitoes for WNV (lineage 1) was performed under different temperature conditions: a constant 25 °C, 25/20 °C, and 25/15 °C day/night temperature gradient. RESULTS: At 14 days post-blood-feeding, the different temperature conditions did not impact the infection rate, ranging between 24% and 29%, nor the viral load in the gut, indicating a similar level of viral replication. Interestingly, statistically significant differences in virus dissemination from the gut to secondary tissues were observed between the different conditions. At a constant temperature of 25 °C, WNV was detected via quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) in the saliva of one mosquito, resulting in a transmission efficiency of 1.6%. In contrast, no WNV was detected in the saliva under gradient conditions. WNV could not be isolated from the RT-qPCR positive saliva sample. CONCLUSIONS: Since no proof could be found of infectious WNV being present in the saliva of Anopheles plumbeus under any temperature condition, this species cannot be considered a competent vector on the basis of our results. As also only a low viral RNA load was detected by RT-qPCR in one saliva sample at the 25 °C condition, we conclude that Anopheles plumbeus will probably play no role in WNV transmission in Belgium, especially under temperature conditions that more closely reflect the current Belgian climate (25/15 °C) or what could occur in the future (25/20 °C) during the vector season.
Field study evaluating the efficacy of a combination formulation of fluralaner with moxidectin and pyrantel (BRAVECTO TriUNO) against canine intestinal nematode infections.
Chiummo R, Zschiesche E, Kirkova Z … +5 more , Otranto D, Bezerra-Santos M, Papadopoulos E, Rapti D, Heinau L
Parasit Vectors · 2026 Apr · PMID 41928261 · Full text
BACKGROUND: There is a demand for broad-spectrum products effective against internal and external parasites to simplify dog-owner compliance with veterinary parasiticide treatment recommendations. A field study investiga...
BACKGROUND: There is a demand for broad-spectrum products effective against internal and external parasites to simplify dog-owner compliance with veterinary parasiticide treatment recommendations. A field study investigated the safety and efficacy of a broad-spectrum formulation of fluralaner, moxidectin, and pyrantel pamoate compared with a licensed afoxolaner-milbemycin oxime combination product in treating canine intestinal nematode infections in client-owned dogs at multiple sites in Europe. METHODS: Dogs with positive pre-treatment fecal egg counts (FEC) were randomized to treatment on day 0 with the investigative veterinary product (IVP), at dose rates of: IVP, fluralaner 10-20 mg/kg, moxidectin 0.025-0.050 mg/kg, pyrantel 5-10 mg/kg (n = 172); or a control product (CP), afoxolaner 2.5-5.2 mg/kg, milbemycin oxime 0.5-1.0 mg/kg (n = 86). On day 14, FEC were completed on all study dogs. Efficacy against any intestinal nematode species was claimed if the FEC reduction in ≥ 10 dogs initially positive for that species was ≥ 90%, and if the geometric mean difference between pre- and post-treatment FEC was statistically significant (P ≤ 0.05). RESULTS: Study dogs were enrolled at veterinary clinics in Albania (n = 60), Bulgaria (n = 111), Greece (n = 27), and Italy (n = 60). Where a sufficient number of infected dogs allowed for statistical comparison, geometric mean FEC reductions on day 14 versus day 0 in the IVP group were significant (P < 0.0001) for hookworms, Toxocara canis, Toxascaris leonina, Trichuris vulpis, and capillarid-type eggs. On the basis of geometric mean reductions in FEC relative to day 0, the efficacy of the IVP exceeded 99% against all intestinal nematode parasites, and FEC reductions in the CP exceeded 98%. The percentage of nematode-free dogs in the IVP group was statistically noninferior (P < 0.0001) to the CP group and even statistically superior at the α = 0.025 level of significance (one-sided). There were no treatment-related adverse events. CONCLUSIONS: In client-owned dogs, the combination of fluralaner-moxidectin-pyrantel is safe and effective for the treatment of intestinal infections with hookworms, ascarids, including T. canis, and whipworms. On the basis of the complete elimination of parasite ova from the feces evaluated in this study, this fluralaner-moxidectin-pyrantel combination demonstrated to be significantly superior (P < 0.025) to an afoxolaner-milbemycin combination in the treatment of canine intestinal nematode infections.
About
- Frequency
- Sun
- Papers found
- 200
- RSS feed
- Subscribe