How does the genetic diversity of different animal species impact the spread and severity of brucella?5 answersThe genetic diversity of Brucella species in various animal populations plays a crucial role in the spread and severity of brucellosis. Studies from Turkey, Kazakhstan, Egypt, Costa Rica, and worldwide highlight the significance of genetic typing methods like MLVA-16 and whole-genome sequencing in understanding the epidemiology of Brucella strains. Different genotypes and lineages of B. melitensis and B. abortus have been identified, showing population dynamics and spread patterns across regions. The movement of infected animals, trade practices, and historical links between countries contribute to the dissemination of brucellosis. Genetic diversity changes over time, emphasizing the need for continuous surveillance to track the evolution of the pathogen and implement effective control measures to prevent human and animal suffering.
What are the molecular markers commonly used for characterization of Brucella abortus?5 answersMolecular markers commonly used for the characterization of Brucella abortus include the BCSP-31 gene, IS711/AB, and BM PCR assays. The BCSP-31 gene is significant in immune response elicitation during infection and is utilized for making marker and DNA vaccines. The IS711/AB and BM PCR assays detect specific amplicons in Brucella isolates, blood samples, vaginal swabs, and aborted fetal materials, aiding in the rapid and accurate diagnosis of brucellosis in cattle and buffaloes. Additionally, high-resolution melting (HRM) methods based on single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) have been developed for quick species-level differentiation of Brucella strains, including B. abortus, providing a valuable alternative for genotyping and identification within a short timeframe.
Isolation of brucella abortus from soil sample5 answersBrucella abortus has been isolated from soil samples in multiple studies. In a study conducted in Isfahan, Iran, it was found that the banding pattern of PCR-RFLP for some isolates was similar to B. abortus, indicating the presence of B. abortus in the area. Another study conducted in South Moravia, Czech Republic, successfully isolated B. microti, a species closely related to B. abortus, from soil samples collected near mouse burrows. The isolates were confirmed to be B. microti through genetic analysis, and it was suggested that soil may serve as a reservoir for this species. Therefore, it is possible to isolate B. abortus from soil samples, and these findings highlight the importance of considering soil as a potential source of Brucella infections.
What are tandem repeat based typing for diagnosing brucellosis?5 answersTandem repeat-based typing methods are used for diagnosing brucellosis. MLVA-16 (Multiple Locus Variable-Number Tandem Repeat Analysis) is considered the gold standard for Brucella typing. MLVA-16 involves analyzing 16 loci to determine the genetic diversity and relationships among Brucella strains. MLVA-8, MLVA-11, and MLVA-16 are VNTR (Variable-Number Tandem Repeat) based techniques that provide different levels of resolution for genotyping Brucella isolates. MLVA-8 analyzes 8 loci, MLVA-11 analyzes 11 loci, and MLVA-16 analyzes 16 loci. These methods have been used to identify genotypes and clonal groups of Brucella strains in different geographical areas, allowing for the determination of epidemiological relationships. MLVA-16 has shown a high degree of polymorphism among isolates, indicating a high genetic diversity. Whole genome sequencing (WGS)-based typing is also being explored as a transition from traditional MLVA methods, but MLVA-16 remains an important tool for molecular epidemiological studies.
What are the antigenic characteristics of brucella melitensis?4 answersBrucella melitensis has several antigenic characteristics. The outer membrane protein-31 (Omp31) is a major protein of Brucellae, except for B. abortus, and its antigenic epitopes have been characterized using monoclonal antibodies (mAbs). A total of 22 mAbs were produced against Omp31 of B. melitensis, and they recognized linear, semi-conformational, and conformational epitopes. Some of these mAbs reacted with conserved linear epitopes of B. melitensis, B. ovis, B. suis, and B. canis strains, while others highly reacted with a conformational epitope of Omp31. Additionally, a crude protein extract of B. melitensis was found to be immunogenic, with certain proteins showing higher immunogenicity. These findings suggest that Omp31 and other proteins of B. melitensis can be used for antigen detection and identification, as well as for developing diagnostic antibodies.
What is the molecular epidemiology of brucella species?5 answersThe molecular epidemiology of Brucella species has been studied in various regions, including Kenya, India, Iran, and Southeast Europe. These studies have aimed to detect and identify the circulating Brucella species in different host species. The detection methods used include real-time PCR assays, serological tests such as the Rose Bengal Plate Test (RBPT) and Indirect Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (i-ELISA), as well as bacterial culture and genotyping techniques such as multilocus variable number tandem repeats analysis (MLVA) and multilocus sequence typing analysis (MLST). The results of these studies have revealed the prevalence of Brucella species in livestock species such as cattle, sheep, goats, and camels, as well as in humans. The detection of different Brucella species, such as B. abortus and B. melitensis, in multiple host species suggests cross-transmission of these species among different hosts. Continuous investigation is required to monitor drug resistance and the emergence of new strains. A more detailed and vigorous control of brucellosis is necessary to prevent the spread of this zoonotic disease.