A Clinical and Epidemiological Investigation of the First Reported Human Infection With the Zoonotic Parasite Trypanosoma evansi in Southeast Asia.

BACKGROUND: Trypanosomais a genus of unicellular parasitic flagellate protozoa.Trypanosoma bruceispecies and Trypanosoma cruziare the major agents of human trypanosomiasis; other Trypanosomaspecies can cause human disease, but are rare. In March 2015, a 38-year-old woman presented to a healthcare facility in southern Vietnam with fever, headache, and arthralgia. Microscopic examination of blood revealed infection with Trypanosoma METHODS: Microscopic observation, polymerase chain reaction (PCR) amplification of blood samples, and serological testing were performed to identify the infecting species. The patient's blood was screened for the trypanocidal protein apolipoprotein L1 (APOL1), and a field investigation was performed to identify the zoonotic source. RESULTS: PCR amplification and serological testing identified the infecting species as Trypanosoma evansi.Despite relapsing 6 weeks after completing amphotericin B therapy, the patient made a complete recovery after 5 weeks of suramin. The patient was found to have 2 wild-type APOL1 alleles and a normal serum APOL1 concentration. After responsive animal sampling in the presumed location of exposure, cattle and/or buffalo were determined to be the most likely source of the infection, with 14 of 30 (47%) animal blood samples testing PCR positive forT. evansi. CONCLUSIONS: We report the first laboratory-confirmed case ofT. evansiin a previously healthy individual without APOL1 deficiency, potentially contracted via a wound while butchering raw beef, and successfully treated with suramin. A linked epidemiological investigation revealed widespread and previously unidentified burden ofT. evansiin local cattle, highlighting the need for surveillance of this infection in animals and the possibility of further human cases

Investigation of Trypanosoma evansi infection in bullfighting cattle in Southern Thailand

Background and Aim: Trypanosoma evansi infection has been reported in Thai livestock such as beef and dairy cattle. However, there is little information on T. evansi infection in bullfighting cattle in Southern Thailand. The aim of this study was to investigate the infection of T. evansi in bullfighting cattle presented for health checks at the Animal Hospital, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Prince of Songkla University, Thailand. Materials and Methods: Blood and serum samples were collected from 177 bullfighting cattle from April 2016 to February 2017 after bullfighting matches. Animal inspected showed signs of fever, weight loss, or exercise intolerance. Investigation of T. evansi infection was tested using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) with TBR primers and using indirect enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay with T. evansi crude antigen. Results: The seroprevalence of T. evansi in bullfighting cattle was 22.60% (40/177). The PCR results detected no parasite DNA in this study. However, bullfighting cattle may serve as T. evansi reservoirs. Conclusion: Health checking procedures for T. evansi should be promoted for bullfighting events so that infected animals can be quarantined in the preparatory stages of such events

Data from: the Siam chicken bioresource project: genetic diversity and origin of Thai chicken breeds

Three separate studies have delved into the genetic characteristics, origins, and unique attributes of various chicken breeds in Thailand, providing crucial insights for future breeding programs. The first study focused on Chee Fah and Fah Luang, black-boned chicken breeds in Chiang Rai, Thailand. Despite their economic and cultural significance, little was known about their genetics. Mitochondrial DNA D-loop sequencing and microsatellite genotyping revealed shared genetic heritage with Chinese black-boned chickens, suggesting their origin. Distinct genetic patterns were identified compared to Thai domestic chickens and red junglefowl, indicating crossbreeding and introgression during domestication. Interestingly, the Chee Fah and Fah Luang chickens from different localities exhibited different gene pool structures, possibly influenced by environmental factors like elevation. The second study centered on the Mae Hong Son chicken, a local breed in Northern Thailand. Genetic analyses, including microsatellite markers and mitochondrial D-loop sequencing, unveiled high genetic diversity and unique allelic gene pool patterns. This breed likely originated as a crossbreed between red junglefowl and Thai indigenous village chickens, adapting to local environmental, social, and cultural conditions. The third study examined Lao Pa Koi (LPK) chickens, a popular fighting breed in Thailand. Genetic diversity assessments using microsatellite markers and mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) D-loop sequences confirmed high variability and genetic admixture between red junglefowl and Thai domestic chickens. Spatial suitability analysis highlighted the importance of elevation in shaping LPK chicken distribution. In conclusion, these studies collectively enhance our understanding of the genetic foundations, origins, and adaptation of diverse chicken breeds in Thailand. This knowledge is crucial for developing effective breeding programs and preserving these valuable genetic resources.Funding provided by: National Science and Technology Development AgencyCrossref Funder Registry ID: http://dx.doi.org/10.13039/501100004192Award Number: 6517400214Funding provided by: National Science and Technology Development AgencyCrossref Funder Registry ID: http://dx.doi.org/10.13039/501100004192Award Number: 6417400247Funding provided by: National Science and Technology Development AgencyCrossref Funder Registry ID: http://dx.doi.org/10.13039/501100004192Award Number: P-19-52238Funding provided by: National Science and Technology Development AgencyCrossref Funder Registry ID: http://dx.doi.org/10.13039/501100004192Award Number: JRA-CO-2564-14003-THFunding provided by: Kasetsart University Research and Development InstituteCrossref Funder Registry ID: http://dx.doi.org/10.13039/501100005621Award Number: FF(KU)25.6