A randomized assessors-blind clinical trial to evaluate the safety and the efficacy of albendazole alone and in combination with mebendazole or pyrantel for the treatment of Trichuris trichiura infection in school-aged children in Lambaréné and surroundings.

Helminthiasis remains a public health issue in endemic areas. Various drugs have been proposed to improve efficacy against helminths. The study aimed to assess the safety and efficacy of three different anthelmintic combinations to treat Trichuris trichiura infections. We conducted a randomized assessors-blind clinical trial involving children aged 2-17 years with T. trichiura. Participants were randomly assigned to one of three treatment arms. On the first and third days, all participants got albendazole 400 mg, and on the second day, albendazole (arm A), mebendazole 500 mg (arm B), or pyrantel 125 mg/kg (arm C). We assessed treatment efficacy using the cure rate (CR) and egg reduction rate (ERR) at 3 and 6 weeks post-treatment. At 3 weeks post-treatment, ERR and CR were highest in study arm A [ERR = 94%, 95% confidence interval (CI): 92-95; CR = 71%; 95% CI: 58-81] compared to the B and C arms. Decrease in ERR was significant only for arm B versus arm A (P-value <0.001); decrease in ERR was significant for arms B and C (P-value <0.001). No statistical difference was observed in CR when comparing arms A and B (P-value =1.00) and C (P-value =0.27). At 6 weeks, a decrease in ERR was observed in three arms, significant only for arm C, 81% (95% CI: 78-83). A significant increase in egg counts was observed between 3 and 6 weeks post-treatment. All treatments were safe with mild adverse events. Albendazole 400 mg/day (arm A) showed the highest efficacy against trichuriasis. Nonetheless, this treatment regimen was able to cure half of the treated individuals highlighting concerns about controlling the transmission of T. trichiura.CLINICAL TRIALRegistered at ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT04326868).

T. Muris Infection Dynamics of a Fresh, Wild Isolate: Is the Established E Isolate Still Relevant?

For decades, parasitic worms such as Trichuris muris have been maintained in laboratory animals, providing insights into host-parasite interactions and host immune responses. The most used T. muris isolate is the E isolate, established in the laboratory in 1954. However, one concern with these model systems is the potential for laboratory-induced selection and therefore changes in host-parasite interactions. To address these concerns, we compare the E isolate with a recently isolated T. muris isolate (M isolate), established from wild house mice (Mus musculus domesticus, Isle of May, UK), in their capacity to infect laboratory mice. High dose infection of C57BL/6 mice revealed that significantly more parasites of the M isolate survived to the adult stage compared to the E isolate. Worm persistence was associated with heightened TNF-α and IL-10 secretion upon parasite-specific re-stimulation, and higher serum IgG1 and IgG2c levels, concomitant with an increase in T-bet+ and ICOS+ CD4+ T effector-memory cells. Differences in host response to the isolates were not as pronounced during low dose infection. Our study highlights the need for regular evaluation of lab-maintained parasite isolates against freshly isolated parasites to understand whether the established lab strains remain relevant model systems for our understanding of parasitic infections.

Phylogenetic evidence of a possible Trichuris globulosa species complex in Arabian camels from Kuwait.

During a 1-year study, Trichuris adults were obtained after necropsy of Arabian camels (Camelus dromedarius) from a slaughterhouse in Kuwait. Morphological and molecular identification was performed to confirm the identity of the Trichuris specimens obtained from C. dromedarius. Fifteen male Trichuris specimens were selected, and molecular identification was performed using mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I, 12S ribosomal RNA, 16S ribosomal RNA genes and the nuclear internal transcribed spacer 2 (ITS2) region. Through phylogenetic analysis, 2 distinct groups were obtained using the mitochondrial genes, where group 1 showed a close relationship to Trichuris globulosa while group 2 showed a close relationship to Trichuris ovis, providing molecular evidence of a possible T. globulosa species complex. Additionally, the nuclear ITS2 region did not provide enough resolution to distinguish between the 2 groups of Trichuris specimens. Observation of morphological characters revealed variations in the shape of the male spicule sheath, where specimens present either a globular posteriorly truncated swelling or the absence of posteriorly truncated swelling. Moreover, the variations in male spicule sheath does not corroborate with the results of molecular data, suggesting the limited use of this character for identification of T. globulosa. In conclusion, molecular analysis suggests a possible species complex in T. globulosa, with the mitochondrial genetic markers successfully differentiating between the 2 groups. The limited use of the male spicule sheath as a diagnostic character for identification of T. globulosa is suggested.

A survey of gastrointestinal helminth infestation in smallholder backyard pigs and the first molecular identification of the two zoonotic helminths Ascaris suum and Trichuris suis in Myanmar.

BACKGROUND: Parasitic infestations have a substantial economic impact on pig production. This study aimed to investigate the gastrointestinal (GI) helminths in pigs and to molecularly characterise two important nematodes, Ascaris and Trichuris species. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 500 pig faecal samples were collected from small holder backyard pig farms in five townships within Nay Pyi Taw, Myanmar. Microscopic examination was conducted to estimate the prevalence of GI helminth infestation in the pigs. DNA extraction and PCR were performed on faecal samples that were morphologically positive for Ascaris and Trichuris eggs. Molecular analysis was then conducted to characterise A. suum and T. suis, the most common and zoonotic helminths. RESULTS: According to microscopic examination, 69.2% (346/500) were positive for GI helminth eggs. The GI helminth species observed were A. suum, Strongyle, Strongyloides spp., T. suis, Metastrongylus spp., Hyostrongylus spp., Fasciolopsis spp., Paragonimus spp., and Schistosoma spp., with occurrences of 34.8%, 29.6%, 21.4%, 20.0%, 4.0%, 1.6%, 1.0%, 1.0%, and 0.4%, respectively. Mixed infections of GI helminths were noted in 31.0% of the samples. Overall, sampled pigs excreted mostly low levels (< 100 EPG) or moderate levels (> 100-500 EPG) of GI helminth eggs. The highest mean EPG for each parasite species was noted in A. suum. The presence of A. suum and T. suis was confirmed molecularly. The sequences of the internal transcribed spacer 1 (ITS1) region of A. suum showed high similarity with previously reported sequences. Likewise, the sequences of T. suis exhibited high similarity with the sequences reported from humans and pigs. Age was noted as an associated factor (P < 0.05) for GI helminth infection status. CONCLUSIONS: In this report, A. suum and T. suis were molecularly identified for the first time in Myanmar. It is important to extend the information among the farmers to be aware of the necessity of preventing zoonotic parasites by practicing regular deworming, proper use of anthelmintics and maintaining hygienic conditions in their pig farms.

Trichuris Globulosa Von Linstow, 1901 from one-humped camel (Camelus dromedarius) in Egypt: prevalence, morphological and molecular study.

BACKGROUND: Trichuris spp. (whipworms) are soil-transmitted helminths distributed worldwide, parasitizing several mammalian hosts such as ruminants, primates, and rodents. Trichuris spp. is one of the most common intestinal parasites affecting both humans and animals, and it can spread directly through the fecal-oral route, resulting in severe illness and financial loss. So, this work aims to detect the frequency of Trichuris spp. in camels in Beheira Governorate, Egypt, and to identify Trichuris spp. through morphometrical studies, molecular analysis, and phylogenetic analysis. RESULTS: A total of 35 dromedaries out of 127 investigated had Trichuris spp. infection, meaning that the overall prevalence was 27.56%. The age of the camel affected the infection rate, older animals (> 5 years) having a higher prevalence of infection (24%) than animals of ages (< 3 years) (20%) than animals of ages (3-5 years) (19.14%). According to season: Trichuris spp. showed a unique pattern in camels in different seasons: summer (31.25%) > autumn (28.13%) > spring (25.8%) > winter (25%) indicating year-round infection. T. globulosa was identified morphometrically from camels in Beheira Governorate, Egypt. The BLAST analysis revealed the presence of T. globulosa isolate from camels using the Genbank database depending on nuclear small subunit ribosomal RNA (18s) and cytochrome b (Cytb) genes. CONCLUSION: A high prevalence of T. globulosa was found in camels in Beheira Governorate, Egypt. This is the first report to confirm the identification of T. globulosa from camel based on morphometrical studies and molecular and phylogenetic analysis in Egypt. More thorough studies on the incidence, molecular, and genetic analysis of Trichuris spp. in Egypt are required in addition to camel control programs.

Palaeoparasitology confirms Early Lapita evidence of pig and dog at Kamgot, Bismarck Archipelago.

Little is known about helminth parasites of the Bismarck Archipelago, in either archaeological or modern contexts. This study presents a parasitological analysis of soil samples from Early Lapita habitation layers at Kamgot (3300-3000 BP). Evidence for the presence of pigs and dogs and the timing of their arrival in Early Lapita contexts have been contested in the literature. The finding of parasite eggs in samples from Kamgot supports the presence of pigs and dogs at the site. Six types of helminth eggs were identified: pig nematode Trichuris suis, dog nematode Toxocara canis, and cestode Dipylidium caninum, as well as two unknown trematodes and a possible anoplocephalid cestode, thereby indicating the local presence of other mammals or birds. This study represents the first confirmed record of ancient helminth parasites in tropical Oceania.

Temporal and spatial patterns of Trichuris trichiura eggs: a potential threat to human health in Pakistan.

This study investigates the presence of Trichuris trichiura eggs in soil samples collected from urban areas in Lahore, Pakistan. A total of 3600 soil samples were collected over two years from Lahore's urban regions. The detection of helminth eggs in these samples was performed using sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl) as a diagnostic technique. The study reveals an overall prevalence rate of T. trichiura at 0.97 % (35 out of 3600) in the contaminated soil samples from Lahore's slum areas. When analyzing the data by geographical areas, the study found the highest prevalence of T. trichiura in Allama Iqbal Town (1.83 %, 11 out of 600), followed by Samanabad (1.16 %, 7 out of 600), Wapda Town (1.00 %, 6 out of 600), Gulberg (1.00 %, 6 out of 600), and Cantt (0.50 %, 3 out of 600). Conversely, Valencia Town had the lowest prevalence rate at 0.33 % (2 out of 600). However, these variations in prevalence rates were not statistically significant (p = 0.117). Prevalence rates of T. trichiura's eggs varied significantly across different sampling seasons (p>0.001). In autumn, a total of 900 soil samples were collected, with 19 samples (2.11 %) testing positive for T. trichiura. This rate was notably higher compared to the prevalence rates observed in winter, spring, and summer, which were 0.66 %, 0.22 %, and 0.88 %, respectively. Regarding the sampling months, the study observed a significantly higher prevalence during September (3.33 %, 10 out of 300), followed by October (2.33 %, 7 out of 300), and August (1.33 %, 4 out of 300). Prevalence rates gradually decreased in other months, ranging from 1 % to 0.33 % (3 to 1 out of 300), with no parasite detection in March (0 %, 0 out of 300) (p < 0.001). This research underscores soil contamination due to fecal waste and highlights public unawareness of parasite biology, driven by open defecation practices.

Whipworm Infection in Mice Increases Coinfection of Enteric Pathogens but Promotes Clearance of Ascaris Larvae From the Lungs.

Infection with intestinal whipworms (Trichuris spp.) causes widespread morbidity and may alter responses to enteric and extraintestinal coinfections. Here, we show that Trichuris muris infection in mice increases coinfection with 2 evolutionary divergent enteric pathogens, the bacterium Citrobacter rodentium and the helminth Heligmosomoides polygyrus. Coinfection caused reduced weight gain and promoted type 1-biased inflammation. In contrast, T. muris-infected mice were more resistant to migrating Ascaris suum larvae in the lungs. Our results highlight the divergent nature of pathogen interactions and suggest that whipworm infection is a risk factor for coinfections with other pathogens within the gastrointestinal tract.

Efficacy and Safety of Moxidectin-Albendazole and Ivermectin-Albendazole Combination Therapy Compared to Albendazole Monotherapy in Adolescents and Adults Infected with Trichuris trichiura: A Randomized, Controlled Superiority Trial.

BACKGROUND: The currently recommended benzimidazole monotherapy is insufficiently effective to control infection with the soil-transmitted helminth Trichuris trichiura. Ivermectin-albendazole combination has shown promising, but setting-dependent efficacy, with therapeutic underperformance in Côte d'Ivoire. We evaluated whether moxidectin-albendazole could serve as an alternative to albendazole monotherapy in Côte d'Ivoire. METHODS: In this community-based, randomized, placebo-controlled, parallel-group superiority trial, individuals aged 12-60 years were screened for T. trichiura eggs in their stool using quadruplicate Kato-Katz thick smears. Diagnostically and clinically eligible participants were randomly assigned (1:1:1) to receive single oral doses of moxidectin (8 mg) and albendazole (400 mg), ivermectin (200 µg/kg) and albendazole (400 mg), or albendazole (400 mg) and placebo. The primary outcome was proportion cured, ie, cure rate (CR), assessed at 2-3 weeks post-treatment. Safety endpoints were assessed pre-treatment and at 3 and 24 hours post-treatment. RESULTS: For the 210 participants with primary outcome data, we observed CRs of 15.3% in the moxidectin-albendazole arm and 22.5% in the ivermectin-albendazole arm, which did not differ significantly from the CR of 13.4% in the albendazole arm (differences: 1.8%-points [95% confidence interval: -10.1 to 13.6] and 9.1%-points [-3.9 to 21.8], respectively). Most common adverse events were abdominal pain (range across arms: 11.9%-20.9%), headache (4.7%-14.3%), and itching (5.8%-13.1%), which were predominantly mild and transient. CONCLUSIONS: All therapies showed similar low efficacy in treating trichuriasis in Côte d'Ivoire. Alternative treatment options need to be evaluated, and further analyses should be conducted to understand the lack of enhanced activity of the combination therapies in Côte d'Ivoire. CLINICAL TRIALS REGISTRATION: NCT04726969.

Basophil responses in susceptible AKR mice upon infection with the intestinal helminth parasite Trichuris muris.

Intestinal helminth infection promotes a Type 2 inflammatory response in resistant C57BL/6 mice that is essential for worm clearance. The study of inbred mouse strains has revealed factors that are critical for parasite resistance and delineated the role of Type 1 versus Type 2 immune responses in worm clearance. In C57BL/6 mice, basophils are key innate immune cells that promote Type 2 inflammation and are programmed via the Notch signalling pathway during infection with the helminth Trichuris muris. However, how the host genetic background influences basophil responses and basophil expression of Notch receptors remains unclear. Here we use genetically susceptible inbred AKR/J mice that have a Type 1-skewed immune response during T. muris infection to investigate basophil responses in a susceptible host. Basophil population expansion occurred in AKR/J mice even in the absence of fulminant Type 2 inflammation during T. muris infection. However, basophils in AKR/J mice did not robustly upregulate expression of the Notch2 receptor in response to infection as occurred in C57BL/6 mice. Blockade of the Type 1 cytokine interferon-γ in infected AKR/J mice was not sufficient to elicit infection-induced basophil expression of the Notch2 receptor. These data suggest that the host genetic background, outside of the Type 1 skew, is important in regulating basophil responses during T. muris infection in susceptible AKR/J mice.

Gastrointestinal parasites in captive olive baboons in a UK safari park.

From the safety inside vehicles, Knowsley Safari offers visitors a close-up encounter with captive olive baboons. As exiting vehicles may be contaminated with baboon stool, a comprehensive coprological inspection was conducted to address public health concerns. Baboon stools were obtained from vehicles, and sleeping areas, inclusive of video analysis of baboon­vehicle interactions. A purposely selected 4-day sampling period enabled comparative inspections of 2662 vehicles, with a total of 669 baboon stools examined (371 from vehicles and 298 from sleeping areas). As informed by our pilot study, front-line diagnostic methods were: QUIK-CHEK rapid diagnostic test (RDT) (Giardia and Cryptosporidium), Kato­Katz coproscopy (Trichuris) and charcoal culture (Strongyloides). Some 13.9% of vehicles were contaminated with baboon stool. Prevalence of giardiasis was 37.4% while cryptosporidiosis was <0.01%, however, an absence of faecal cysts by quality control coproscopy, alongside lower than the expected levels of Giardia-specific DNA, judged RDT results as misleading, grossly overestimating prevalence. Prevalence of trichuriasis was 48.0% and strongyloidiasis was 13.7%, a first report of Strongyloides fuelleborni in UK. We advise regular blanket administration(s) of anthelminthics to the colony, exploring pour-on formulations, thereafter, smaller-scale indicator surveys would be adequate.

Zoonotic helminths of dogs and risk factors associated with polyparasitism in Grenada, West Indies.

Canine soil-transmitted helminths (STHs) cause important zoonoses in the tropics, with varying degrees of intensity of infection in humans and dogs. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence and associated risk factors for STHs in community dogs residing in Grenada, West Indies. In May 2021, 232 canine fecal samples were examined for zoonotic helminths by microscopy (following flotation), and genomic DNA from a subset of 211 of these samples were subjected to multiplex qPCR for the detection and specific identification of hookworms, Toxocara spp. and Strongyloides. Microscopic examination revealed that 46.5% (108/232, 95% CI 40­52.9), 9% (21/232, 95% CI 5.35­12.7) and 5.2% (12/232, 95% CI 2.3­8) of the samples contained eggs of Ancylostoma spp., Toxocara spp. and Trichuris vulpis, respectively. Multiplex qPCR revealed that, 42.2% (89/211, 95% CI 35.5­48.8) were positive for at least 1 zoonotic parasite. Of these, 40.8% (86/211, 95% CI 34.1­47.3) of samples tested positive for Ancylostoma spp., 36% (76/211, 95% CI 29.5­42.9) were positive for A. caninum, 13.3% (28/211, 95% CI 9­18.6) for A. ceylanicum, 5.7% for T. canis (12/211, 95% CI 2.97­8.81) and 1% (2/211, 95% CI 0­2.26) for Strongyloides spp. (identified as S. stercoralis and S. papillosus by conventional PCR-based Sanger sequencing). Using a multiple logistic regression model, a low body score and free-roaming behaviour were significant predictors of test-positivity for these parasitic nematodes in dogs (P < 0.05). Further studies of zoonotic STHs in humans should help elucidate the public health relevance of these parasites in Grenada.

Bacteria associated with ovine gut parasites Trichuris ovis and Haemonchus contortus.

An associated microbiome of any host helps it in different metabolic processes ranging from the decomposition of food to the maturation of gametes. Organisms with a parasitic mode of life, though present at nutritious sites inside their host, maintain their own microbiome. Nevertheless, the comprehensive characterization and functionality of microbiome in parasitic organisms remain understudied. We selected two nematode parasites of Kashmir Merino sheep viz;Haemonchus contortus and Trichuris ovis based on their higher prevalence, difference in mode of nutrition, habitation site and effect on host. The objective of the study was to explore the bacteria associated with these parasitic nematodes of sheep. We adopted a 16S rRNA metagenomic sequencing approach to estimate and compare the bacterial communities present in these two nematode species. Nematode parasites from Kashmir Merino sheep were identified morphologically and confirmed with DNA characterization. H. contortus was dominated by phylum Proteobacteria (57%), Firmicutes (25%), Bacteroidota (15%) and Actinobacteriota (3%). Conversely, T. ovis showed Proteobacteria (78%) followed by Firmicutes (8%), Bacteroidota (8%), Actinobacteriota (1%), Fusobacteriota (1%) and other phyla (4%). This study provides a comprehensive account of the microbiome composition of H. contortus and T. ovis, both of which are highly prevalent among Kashmir Merino sheep. Additionally, T. ovis exhibited a greater bacterial diversity compared to H. contortus. Notably, these nematodes were found to harbor certain pathogenic bacteria. This study can further be carried forward in gaining insights into the complex relationship between the microbiota of a parasite and its pathogenicity, reproductive potential and host microbiome modification.

Effect of incorporation of bead-beating during DNA extraction for quantitative polymerase chain reaction-based detection of Trichuris trichiura in stool samples in community settings: a systematic review.

This meta-analysis was designed to assess the effect of the addition of a bead-beating (BB) step during DNA extraction to effectively isolate Trichuris trichiura DNA from stool samples for quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR)-based diagnosis. qPCR-based molecular studies comparing the inclusion of a bead-beating step during the DNA extraction from stool samples with extraction without the step were included in the analysis. Studies using real patient samples in community settings were included. The PubMed database and Google search engine were searched in December 2019. Risk of bias and applicability were assessed using the Quality Assessment of Diagnostic Accuracy Studies-2 checklist. Odds ratios (ORs) for individual studies were combined to estimate the random effects model OR. A total of six independent sub-studies were gathered from two published original articles. The division of the two major studies into six sub-studies was indispensable due to the nature of the study carried out. 128 of the total 192 samples (in all studies) were positive for T. trichiura when BB was used during DNA extraction compared to 108/192 when BB was excluded. The combined OR was 1.66 (95% confidence interval: 1.059 to 2.602). Though only two articles were included in the study, six exclusive individual sub-studies were analyzed. Inherent differences in the background prevalence of helminths in the study population could impact the sensitivity of qPCR. It was found that the inclusion of the BB step during DNA extraction significantly increased the sensitivity of the test. This study was not registered in any database.

Antigens from the parasitic nematode Trichuris suis induce metabolic reprogramming and trained immunity to constrain inflammatory responses in macrophages.

Regulation of macrophage (Mɸ) function can maintain tissue homeostasis and control inflammation. Parasitic worms (helminths) are potent modulators of host immune and inflammatory responses. They have evolved various strategies to promote immunosuppression, including redirecting phagocytic cells toward a regulatory phenotype. Although soluble products from the whipworm Trichuris suis (TSPs) have shown significant effects on Mɸ function, the mechanisms underlying these modulatory effects are still not well understood. In this study, we find that TSPs suppressed inflammatory cytokines (TNF and IL-6) in Mɸs stimulated with a broad panel of TLR agonists, whilst inducing IL-10. Moreover, M1 markers such as MHCII, CD86, iNOS, and TNF were downregulated in TSP-treated Mɸs, without polarizing them towards an M2-like phenotype. We showed that TSPs could establish a suppressed activation state of Mɸs lasting at least for 72 h, indicating an anti-inflammatory innate training. Moreover, we found that TSPs, via repression of intracellular TNF generation, decreased its secretion rather than interfering with the release of surface-bound TNF. Metabolic analysis showed that TSPs promote oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS) without affecting glycolytic rate. Collectively, these findings expand our knowledge on helminth-induced immune modulation and support future investigations into the anti-inflammatory properties of TSPs for therapeutic purposes.

Concurrent allergy and helminthiasis in underprivileged urban South African adults previously residing in rural areas.

This study investigated whether prior exposure to helminths (Ascaris IgE, Ascaris eggs and Trichuris eggs) either in childhood or in adulthood, and residence in rural and resource-limited urban areas influence allergy outcomes (asthma, rhinitis, IgE atopy and food allergy) in a South African population. Participants historical and present allergies data were collected through questionnaires and clinical record files. Coproscopy and immunoassays (ImmunoCAPTM Phadiatop, total IgE and allergen-specific fx3 IgE immunoassays and Ascaris IgE radioallergosorbent [RAST] tests) were used for active helminthiasis and allergy screens respectively. Data were analysed using logistic regression analysis, and models were adjusted for age, gender and locality. High Ascaris IgE was significantly associated with asthma (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] = 2.20, p = .047), IgE atopy (aOR = 18.18, p < .0001) and food allergy (aOR = 14.47, p < .0001). Asthma was significantly less likely among participants with Ascaris eggs (aOR = 0.43, p = .048) and Trichuris eggs (aOR = 0.36, p = .024). The findings of co-occurrent helminthiasis and allergic disorders in a population that has resided both in rural and peri-urban informal settlements both oppose and agree with two main notions of the hygiene hypothesis that (i) individuals residing in rural settings with poor sanitation and geohelminth infection are less prone to allergy, and (ii) helminth infections protect against allergy respectively. Further research is warranted.

Anti-Trichuris mucosal responses are maintained during H. bakeri co-infection despite impaired parasite expulsion.

In endemic regions concurrent infection with multiple gastrointestinal (GI) helminth species is more common than single species infection. However, the majority of model helminth infections focus on single species infections leading to a lack of understanding of how co-infection influences anti-parasite immune responses. Here, we use a model co-infection of Trichuris muris (Tm) and Heligmosomoides bakeri (Hb) to investigate the effect of Hb on anti-Tm immune responses. We observed a complete impairment of Tm expulsion in immune competent C57BL/6 mice when co-infected with Hb. This was coupled with reduced cellularity in the colonic mesenteric lymph node (cMLN) proximal to the caecum, however, cMLN cytokine responses and caecal mucosal immune responses in co-infected mice were not significantly different from mice infected with Tm alone. Interestingly, in immune-compromised mice, we found co-infection resulted in enhanced growth and fecundity of female Tm parasites. These data suggest that during helminth-helminth co-infection, immune-independent signals between species may promote survival and growth.

High overlap of zoonotic helminths between wild mammalian predators and rural dogs - an emerging One Health concern?

The concept of One Health emphasizes the interdependence of human, animal and environmental health and is of growing significance, in part owing to the problems related to emerging infectious diseases of wildlife origin. Wild mammalian predators are a potential risk factor for transmission of zoonotic pathogens to domesticated animals and humans. This is especially relevant in rural areas, where transmission of zoonotic pathogens can occur particularly efficiently when free-ranging dogs are present. The main aim of this study was to determine helminth infections among wild mammalian predators and evaluate the overlap between helminth faunas of wild mammals and dogs. Scat samples of predators were collected in coastal areas of Western Estonia and genetic methodology applied for the correct identification of predator species from their scat. Parasitic helminths of mammalian predators in the scat samples were analysed and compared with dog data from a previous study. High helminth prevalence (~90%) was found in dominant predator species in the area, namely the red fox (Vulpes vulpes) and golden jackal (Canis aureus). Moreover, the helminth fauna of both wild species, including potentially zoonotic helminths, overlapped largely with that of rural dogs in the same area. The results, together with the ones from earlier parasitological studies among humans in Estonia, emphasize the potential risk of pathogen transmission from wild mammalian predators to dogs and from dogs to humans, making parasitic diseases of wildlife a One Health concern.

First isolation of Trichuris from Chinese serow, Capricornis milneedwardsii (Cetartiodactyla: Caprinae).

Whipworms are soil-transmitted helminths that can infect a variety of animals. A Chinese serow possibly infected by whipworms was found during a wildlife disease surveillance project in Baima Snow Mountain National Nature Reserve, Yunnan, China, in 2021. As convergent evolution is common in coinhabiting parasites, a mitochondrial gene sequence (cox1) and ribosomal gene sequence (ITS1) were used to identify species similar to Trichuris from Chinese serow. The phylogenetic trees and genetic distances of ten Trichuris samples from a Chinese serow together with other Trichuris spp. that have been previously reported were analysed based on the cox1 and ITS1 sequences. The combined results of the phylogenetic tree and genetic distances based on cox1 gene showed that the whipworms in Chinese serow are T. skrjabini. However, the whipworms in the present study were divided into two apparent clades in the phylogenic trees constructed by the cox1 sequences (Clades A and B) and the ITS1 sequences (Clades C and D). In addition, the Fst and Nm values were 0.82 and 0.23 between Clade A and Clade B for the cox1 gene, and 0.30 and 0.45 between Clade C and Clade D for the ITS1 sequences; both indicators showed low gene flow among the clades. Therefore, the genetic population structure of T. skrjabini was illustrated.

Advantages and Limitations of Microscopy and Molecular Detections for Diagnosis of Soil-transmitted Helminths: An Overview.

World Health Organization (WHO) reported that over 1.5 billion people are infected by soil-transmitted helminths (STH) worldwide in sub-Saharan Africa, the United States of America, China, and East Asia. Heavy infections and polyparasitism are associated with higher morbidity rates, and the patients are exposed to increased vulnerability to other diseases. Therefore, accurate diagnosis followed by mass treatment for morbidity control is necessary.STH diagnosis commonly involves the microscopic observation of the presence of the STH eggs and larvae in the faecal samples. Furthermore, molecular approaches are increasingly utilised in monitoring and surveillance as they show higher sensitivity. Their capability to differentiate hookworm species is an advantage over the Kato-Katz technique. This review discusses the advantages and limitations of microscopy and various molecular tools used for STH detection.