Current research in parasitology & vector-borne diseases最新文献

{"title":"Assessing whole-host homogenisation as a new tool for parasite detection and identification","authors":"Kamil Hupało ,&nbsp;Celine Sassor ,&nbsp;Mia Merle Fuhren ,&nbsp;Dominik Buchner ,&nbsp;Daniel Grabner ,&nbsp;Bernd Sures","doi":"10.1016/j.crpvbd.2026.100348","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.crpvbd.2026.100348","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Despite their importance in ecosystem functioning, parasites remain the most neglected components of biodiversity monitoring. This neglect is partly due to the methodological challenges associated with their detection and identification. Current traditional morphological and molecular approaches are time-consuming, labour-intensive, and require specialised expertise. Here, we explore a novel approach of deriving parasite information through whole-host homogenisation followed by DNA-based identification of its parasite biota. Our goal was to validate whether the approach is feasible and if it could become a complementary method for studying parasites, providing a time-efficient solution allowing for a holistic parasite scan with limited taxonomic expertise. To test the method’s efficiency, we analysed five specimens of European eel as model hosts. Their parasites were identified morphologically, and then all the parasites and the entire host tissue were homogenised together using a commercial blender. Molecular identification of the morphologically detected parasites was conducted using DNA barcoding with parasite-specific primers. Following homogenisation and DNA-based identification, we successfully detected all parasite taxa identified during morphological analyses, even including instances where they had not been detected morphologically. A notable exception were acanthocephalans, which showed low levels of molecular detection. Despite certain limitations, the detection of parasites directly from the whole-host homogenate shows high potential for efficient and accurate parasite detection, in some cases even surpassing morphological identification. The further development of the method, particularly through exploration of DNA metabarcoding, could improve the reliability of parasite assessments and facilitate parasite detection, which could aid in proper parasite recognition.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":94311,"journal":{"name":"Current research in parasitology & vector-borne diseases","volume":"9 ","pages":"Article 100348"},"PeriodicalIF":1.7,"publicationDate":"2026-01-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145929082","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"The ability of relapsing fever Borrelia species to survive in chicken serum in vitro and its correlation to interaction with serum components reactive to a polyclonal anti-complement regulator factor H antibody","authors":"Tobias Jakobsson ,&nbsp;Sven Bergström ,&nbsp;Johan Normark","doi":"10.1016/j.crpvbd.2026.100361","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.crpvbd.2026.100361","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Bacteria belonging to the relapsing fever-causing genus <em>Borrelia</em>, are important causes of zoonotic veterinary and human infections. The genus contains both species with a specific avian association and species with a suggested wider host range, including avian hosts. Despite this, existing studies exploring the <em>Borrelia</em>-avian interaction are relatively few. In this short communication, we report on the <em>in vitro</em> survival of eight strains of relapsing fever from seven species in chicken serum and its correlation to bacterial binding of serum components reactive to a polyclonal anti-complement regulator factor H antibody. All tested relapsing fever strains exhibited the capability to survive in chicken serum <em>in vitro</em>. Components of chicken serum reactive to polyclonal anti-factor H antibodies were found to bind to the surface of spirochetes and to whole cell lysates, but this was not mandatory for serum survival.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":94311,"journal":{"name":"Current research in parasitology & vector-borne diseases","volume":"9 ","pages":"Article 100361"},"PeriodicalIF":1.7,"publicationDate":"2026-01-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"147313980","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Integrative taxonomy of Leptotrombidium species collected from murine hosts in Thailand with emphasis on L. deliense","authors":"Kamonchanok Bunmee ,&nbsp;Kittipong Chaisiri ,&nbsp;Urusa Thaenkham ,&nbsp;Patchara Sriwichai ,&nbsp;Jiraporn Ruangsittichai ,&nbsp;Yudthana Samung ,&nbsp;Jean-Pierre Dujardin ,&nbsp;Suchada Sumruayphol","doi":"10.1016/j.crpvbd.2026.100376","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.crpvbd.2026.100376","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div><em>Leptotrombidium</em> chiggers (larval trombiculid mites) are medically important vectors of scrub typhus caused by <em>Orientia tsutsugamushi</em>. We performed comparative genetic and morphometric analyses of four <em>Leptotrombidium</em> taxa (<em>L. deliense</em>, <em>L. imphalum</em>, <em>L. turdicola</em>, and <em>Leptotrombidium</em> cf. <em>guzhangense</em>), isolated from murine rodents from various localities across Thailand. Phylogenetic analysis was performed using mitochondrial and nuclear gene sequences using specimens of <em>L. deliense</em> from different geographical localities. Quantitative morphological variation was examined using linear measurements of the larval body (20 measurements), together with two geometric morphometric approaches applied to the scutum: an outline-based analysis of scutal contour and a landmark-based analysis of the seven scutal sensillar positions. Remarkably, geometric morphometric analyses of the scutum provided taxonomic resolution equivalent to traditional morphometry based on 20 linear measurements of the entire body. Morphometric analyses showed some concordance with genetic data but could not help definitively identify an unexpected genetic variation within <em>L. deliense</em>, as revealed by phylogenetic reconstruction. By integrating molecular phylogenetics with traditional and geometric morphometrics, we raised the working hypothesis of a cryptic species within the <em>L. deliense</em> taxon. Our approach offers an effective new framework for identification of <em>Leptotrombidium</em> spp. Our findings improve the identification of medically important chigger species and clarify genetic structuring within <em>Leptotrombidium</em>, and also enhance scrub typhus vector surveillance and control programmes.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":94311,"journal":{"name":"Current research in parasitology & vector-borne diseases","volume":"9 ","pages":"Article 100376"},"PeriodicalIF":1.7,"publicationDate":"2026-01-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"147848455","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"A systematic review and meta-analysis of non-arsenical adulticide protocols using moxidectin and doxycycline for the treatment of adult heartworm infection in dogs","authors":"Tanapol Santiwattanatarm ,&nbsp;Walasinee Sakcamduang ,&nbsp;Chuenjid Kongkaew ,&nbsp;Thunyarat Anothaisintawee ,&nbsp;Mookmanee Taechikantaphat","doi":"10.1016/j.crpvbd.2026.100372","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.crpvbd.2026.100372","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Non-arsenical protocols combining topically applied moxidectin with oral doxycycline (Moxi-Doxy) have shown adulticidal effects against <em>Dirofilaria immitis</em>, but recommendations across clinical guidelines remain inconsistent. This systematic review and meta-analysis evaluated the adulticidal efficacy and post-treatment complications of the Moxi-Doxy protocol for canine heartworm infection. Six bibliographic databases (CAB Abstracts, CNKI, Embase, LILACS, MEDLINE, and Scopus) and six grey literature sources were searched from inception to November 2024. Comparative and pre-post (before-and-after-treatment) studies reporting efficacy or post-treatment complications were included. Two reviewers independently performed screening, data extraction, and risk-of-bias assessment. Certainty of evidence was evaluated using GRADE approach. Outcomes included antigen test results, adult worm counts, microfilaria numbers, and reported post-treatment complications. Fourteen studies involving 358 dogs, primarily with stage 1–2 heartworm disease, were included. The meta-analysis showed a time-dependent adulticidal effect of Moxi-Doxy. In comparative studies, antigen-negative conversion rates were similar to those of melarsomine from 9 months onward, with the highest certainty of evidence at 18 months. Across pre-post studies, the proportion of dogs achieving antigen-negative status increased progressively, reaching 99% by 12 months (95% confidence interval, CI: 99–100%; certainty of evidence, CoE: moderate). Microfilaria numbers declined rapidly after treatment. Complication outcomes were limited and variably reported. Topically applied moxidectin with oral doxycycline demonstrates a time-dependent adulticidal efficacy for stage 1–2 canine heartworm infection, appears to be well-tolerated, and may serve as a practical alternative in situations where melarsomine is unavailable or contraindicated. However, limited comparative data, heterogeneity, and risk of bias highlight the need for further high-quality randomized trials with long-term follow-up.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":94311,"journal":{"name":"Current research in parasitology & vector-borne diseases","volume":"9 ","pages":"Article 100372"},"PeriodicalIF":1.7,"publicationDate":"2026-01-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"147656283","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"More than malaria: Exploring Babesia, Leishmania and Trypanosoma in sickle cell disease","authors":"Chanakya R. Bhosale ,&nbsp;Zachary L. Morcos ,&nbsp;Amanda Escudero ,&nbsp;Raghavee Neupane ,&nbsp;Zaneh Kahook ,&nbsp;Genessiss Miranda ,&nbsp;Emily Deehan ,&nbsp;Randal K. Gregg ,&nbsp;Anna K. Potter","doi":"10.1016/j.crpvbd.2026.100396","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.crpvbd.2026.100396","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Vector-borne parasites, such as species of <em>Babesia</em>, <em>Trypanosoma</em>, and <em>Leishmania</em>, are emerging and re-emerging causes of infectious diseases that contribute substantially to global morbidity and mortality. Epidemiological shifts, such as expansion of arthropod vector ranges, increased international travel, and transfusion-associated transmission, have amplified their public health impact. A key distinction among these parasites is their localization within the host. <em>Babesia</em> spp. infect erythrocytes, <em>Leishmania</em> spp. reside within macrophages, and <em>Trypanosoma cruzi</em> invades muscle cells, whereas <em>Trypanosoma brucei</em> remains extracellular within the bloodstream and lymphatics. These differences influence immune evasion, disease progression, and treatment response. Sickle cell disease (SCD) is a hereditary hemoglobinopathy characterized by abnormal erythrocytes, chronic hemolysis, vaso-occlusion, and progressive organ damage, which may significantly alter host susceptibility to parasitic infections. While interactions between SCD and malaria-causing <em>Plasmodium</em> spp. are well established, less is known about its impact on infections caused by <em>Babesia</em> spp., <em>Trypanosoma</em> spp., and <em>Leishmania</em> spp. This narrative review synthesizes current evidence on the relationship between SCD and these parasites, focusing on pathophysiology, immune responses, clinical manifestations, and management strategies. Differences in intracellular <em>versus</em> extracellular localization are examined to better understand their effects on disease severity and treatment outcomes. Improved understanding of these interactions may inform targeted screening, novel therapeutic/management approaches, and transfusion safety strategies (especially those at increased risk for transfusion-transmitted infections), while highlighting critical gaps for future research.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":94311,"journal":{"name":"Current research in parasitology & vector-borne diseases","volume":"9 ","pages":"Article 100396"},"PeriodicalIF":1.7,"publicationDate":"2026-01-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"148183992","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"First in vitro feeding of the Australian marsupial tick, Ixodes hirsti Hassall, 1931, with preliminary microbiome profiling and observations on the nymphal morphology","authors":"Vincent C. Duru,&nbsp;Bahar E. Mustafa,&nbsp;Ian Beveridge,&nbsp;Charles Gauci,&nbsp;Khawla Elati,&nbsp;Abdul Ghafar,&nbsp;Ard M. Nijhof,&nbsp;Abdul Jabbar","doi":"10.1016/j.crpvbd.2026.100413","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.crpvbd.2026.100413","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Artificial tick feeding systems (ATFS) provide a valuable alternative to animal-based models for studying tick biology. <em>Ixodes hirsti</em>, an Australian tick species that parasitises marsupials, remains understudied due to challenges in laboratory maintenance. Here, we report the first successful <em>in vitro</em> feeding of <em>I. hirsti</em> larvae, provide preliminary microbiome profiles of unfed larvae and larvae recovered after artificial feeding and present the first molecularly confirmed morphological description of the nymphal stage. Field-collected engorged females of <em>I. hirsti</em> were allowed to oviposit under laboratory conditions. Hatched larvae were artificially fed on blood using silicone membranes supplemented with kangaroo hair and/or kangaroo hair extract. Microbiomes were characterised by 16S rRNA amplicon sequencing, while scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and sequencing of 16S rRNA and <em>cox</em>1 genes were used for morphological and molecular characterisation of nymphs. Membranes treated with hair extract alone yielded the highest attachment rate (71%), whereas kangaroo hair-treated membranes produced superior feeding performance, with shorter time to engorgement (9.26 ± 1.00 days) and a higher engorgement weight (0.91 ± 0.01 mg). Exploratory microbiome profiling showed that fed larval pools had numerically lower microbial richness and evenness than unfed larval pools, although these differences were not significant. A total of 80 microbial taxa were shared between groups, whereas seven and 17 taxa were unique to fed and unfed larvae, respectively. <em>Stenotrophomonas</em> was more abundant in fed larval pools, while <em>Coxiella</em>-like and <em>Rickettsia</em>-like endosymbionts were detected in both fed and unfed larvae. These findings demonstrate that ATFS can be adapted for wildlife-associated ticks with specialised host preferences and provide a practical framework for investigating the biology and microbial ecology of ticks.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":94311,"journal":{"name":"Current research in parasitology & vector-borne diseases","volume":"10 ","pages":"Article 100413"},"PeriodicalIF":3.0,"publicationDate":"2026-01-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"148635709","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Autochthonous canine cutaneous leishmaniasis caused by Leishmania (Mundinia) martiniquensis in Thailand: First evidence with successful intralesional amphotericin B treatment and a review of animal infections worldwide","authors":"Wareerat Prasitwiset,&nbsp;Pipat Tepouypon,&nbsp;Punyaporn Laungthaweephol,&nbsp;Sineenart Chantarachart,&nbsp;Nuttawadee Ngamlertwong,&nbsp;Chuda Chittasupho,&nbsp;Sahatchai Tangtrongsup,&nbsp;Saruda Tiwananthagorn","doi":"10.1016/j.crpvbd.2026.100405","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.crpvbd.2026.100405","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Autochthonous human leishmaniasis caused by <em>Leishmania</em> (<em>Mundinia</em>) <em>martiniquensis</em> has been increasingly reported in Northern Thailand. However, the potential animal reservoirs for this parasite remain unidentified. Herein, we report the first documented case of canine cutaneous leishmaniasis caused by <em>L. martiniquensis</em> in a dog from Chiang Mai Province. The patient presented with a firm, non-ulcerative nodule (0.3 × 0.4 cm) on the concave surface of the right ear pinna. Fine-needle aspiration cytology revealed protozoan amastigotes, suggestive of <em>Leishmania</em> infection. The parasite was successfully isolated and cultivated in Grace’s insect medium, supplemented with 30% fetal bovine serum. Molecular confirmation was performed using nested polymerase chain reaction (nPCR), real-time quantitative PCR (qPCR), sequencing, and phylogenetic analysis of the internal transcribed spacer 1 region, which classified the isolate as <em>Leishmania martiniquensis</em>. Comprehensive clinical evaluations, including complete blood count, serum biochemistry, and abdominal imaging (radiography and ultrasonography), revealed no evidence of systemic involvement consistent with visceral leishmaniasis. However, persistent polycythemia and mild protein alterations were observed during follow-up. Successful clinical resolution of the cutaneous lesion was achieved after four consecutive weekly intralesional amphotericin B treatments. This report demonstrates that dogs are vulnerable to cutaneous <em>L. martiniquensis</em> infections. A comprehensive review of clinical manifestations of <em>L. martiniquensis</em> infection in animals worldwide is presented, emphasizing the need for further studies on animal infection, vector transmission, and epidemiology within a One Health framework.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":94311,"journal":{"name":"Current research in parasitology & vector-borne diseases","volume":"10 ","pages":"Article 100405"},"PeriodicalIF":3.0,"publicationDate":"2026-01-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC13331781/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"148393206","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Seasonal distribution of anisakid nematodes in fishes from Portuguese waters: Epidemiological update and implications to consumer risk","authors":"Beatriz Mendes,&nbsp;Duarte Marques,&nbsp;Monalisa Medeiros,&nbsp;Leonor Abegão,&nbsp;Inês Mira,&nbsp;Ana Maria Munhoz,&nbsp;Sónia Ramos,&nbsp;Tiago Leandro Gomes","doi":"10.1016/j.crpvbd.2026.100397","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.crpvbd.2026.100397","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>The consumption of raw or undercooked fish has increased concerns regarding zoonotic parasites, particularly nematode larvae of the genus <em>Anisakis</em>. This study investigates the epidemiology of anisakid infections in commercially important fishes from Portuguese coastal waters, focusing on spatial and seasonal patterns. A total of 538 specimens of five fish species (<em>Trachurus trachurus</em>, <em>Scomber colias</em>, <em>Scomber scombrus</em>, <em>Merluccius merluccius</em>, and <em>Sardina pilchardus</em>) were collected from six localities during winter and summer 2024. Parasites were recovered from viscera and muscles by pepsin digestion, identified using polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) targeting the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) region, and confirmed by sequencing. Generalized linear models were applied for data analysis. All species were infected with <em>Anisakis</em> spp. larvae, with significant differences among host species, host size, seasons, and regions. Most larvae were in the viscera (90.5–100%), with a smaller proportion in muscles. <em>Trachurus</em> showed the highest infection levels (45–100% prevalence; mean intensity up to 161 larvae per infected host). Molecular analysis of 424 larvae identified <em>Anisakis pegreffii</em> (56.6%) as the dominant species, followed by <em>A. simplex</em> (<em>sensu stricto</em>) (30.9%), putative hybrids (12.3%), and a single <em>Skrjabinisakis physeteris</em> larva. A significant north-south and seasonal gradient was observed, with <em>A. simplex</em> (<em>s.s.</em>) predominating in northern and winter samples, particularly in the muscles. These results suggest geographical and seasonal variations in <em>Anisakis</em> spp. distribution. Despite potential sampling bias, the presence of zoonotic species in fish muscles highlights the need for strict post-capture handling, freezing, and cooking practices to reduce consumer risk.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":94311,"journal":{"name":"Current research in parasitology & vector-borne diseases","volume":"10 ","pages":"Article 100397"},"PeriodicalIF":3.0,"publicationDate":"2026-01-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC13293719/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"148348186","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"The occurrence of Rodentolepis nana and Hymenolepis diminuta in free-living rodents from Slovakia: The first molecularly confirmed records","authors":"Daniela Antolová,&nbsp;Yaroslav Syrota,&nbsp;Júlia Halapy,&nbsp;Michal Stanko,&nbsp;Gabriela Chovancová,&nbsp;Rudolf Hromada","doi":"10.1016/j.crpvbd.2026.100404","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.crpvbd.2026.100404","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div><em>Rodentolepis nana</em> (syn. <em>Hymenolepis nana</em>) and <em>Hymenolepis diminuta</em> are hymenolepidid tapeworms of zoonotic importance, but data on their occurrence in free-living rodents in Central Europe are limited. A total of 881 small mammals representing 10 species of the order Rodentia were collected in two areas of Slovakia, the city of Košice and protected areas of the Tatra National Park (TANAP), between 2020 and 2025, and examined for the presence of these tapeworm species. Helminth species were identified using ITS1 and mitochondrial <em>nad</em>1 sequence data. <em>Rodentolepis nana</em> was detected only in <em>Rattus norvegicus</em> from the urban habitat of Košice, with 7 of 97 rats (7.2%) testing positive. <em>Hymenolepis diminuta</em> was molecularly confirmed in 10 of 881 examined small mammals (1.1%) and was recorded in <em>R. norvegicus</em> (9.3%, 9/97) and <em>Apodemus agrarius</em> (1.1%, 1/87). To our knowledge, this study provides the first molecularly confirmed records of both tapeworm species in free-living rodents in Slovakia and extends knowledge on their occurrence in Central Europe.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":94311,"journal":{"name":"Current research in parasitology & vector-borne diseases","volume":"10 ","pages":"Article 100404"},"PeriodicalIF":3.0,"publicationDate":"2026-01-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC13333309/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"148440607","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Microfilarial morphometry and molecular characterization of Setaria spp. from naturally infected cattle in Thailand","authors":"Chattraporn Rungchalermlak,&nbsp;Ruttayaporn Ngasaman,&nbsp;Domechai Kaewnoi,&nbsp;Meayanee Kanjanaphan,&nbsp;Niorn Ratanapob,&nbsp;Pairpailin Jhaiaun,&nbsp;Apiraya Rudeekiatthamrong,&nbsp;Darunwan Chuensaengarun,&nbsp;Tanapat Mutchimadilok,&nbsp;Giang Thi Nguyen,&nbsp;Wissanuwat Chimnoi,&nbsp;Jumnongjit Phasuk,&nbsp;Tawin Inpankaew,&nbsp;Burin Nimsuphan,&nbsp;Ketsarin Kamyingkird","doi":"10.1016/j.crpvbd.2026.100422","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.crpvbd.2026.100422","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Filarioid nematodes cause reduced livestock productivity and economic losses worldwide. In cattle, differentiation of microfilariae based on morphology is challenging due to overlapping morphological characteristics. This study aimed to identify microfilariae in cattle blood and determine the prevalence and risk factors of filarial worm infection in Thailand using two microscopic diagnostic methods and molecular techniques. A cross-sectional study was conducted from June 2023 to June 2024 across 15 provinces in Thailand. Cattle blood samples (<em>n</em> = 419) were collected, and microfilariae were examined using thin blood smears, the acetone-modified Knott’s technique, and conventional PCR targeting the mitochondrial cytochrome <em>c</em> oxidase subunit 1 (<em>cox</em>1) gene, followed by sequencing and phylogenetic analysis. Parasitologically, microfilariae were detected in 10.28% of samples by the thin smear technique and 24.11% by Knott’s technique, with morphometry confirming sheathed microfilariae of the genus <em>Setaria</em>. Molecular screening revealed a 17.9% PCR positivity rate, with sequencing confirming <em>Setaria digitata</em> as the predominant species, alongside <em>Setaria labiatopapillosa</em>. The overall combined prevalence of <em>Setaria</em> spp. infection was 25.77%, with the highest prevalence in the central region (39.33%) and the lowest in the southern region (3.16%). Risk factor analysis revealed that beef cattle (OR = 8.336, <em>P</em> = 0.048) and dairy cattle (OR = 4.400, <em>P</em> = 0.004) had significantly higher infection risks than bullfighting cattle. At the farm level, geographical region (<em>P</em> &lt; 0.001) and the presence of water ponds (OR = 5.885, <em>P</em> = 0.004) were significant risk factors. This study provides the first comprehensive report of <em>Setaria</em> spp. infection in Thai cattle and highlights the importance of combined diagnostic approaches for improved veterinary surveillance and targeted vector control.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":94311,"journal":{"name":"Current research in parasitology & vector-borne diseases","volume":"10 ","pages":"Article 100422"},"PeriodicalIF":3.0,"publicationDate":"2026-01-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"148770908","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}