Molecular detection of filarioids (Rhabditida: Filarioidea) in spinturnicid mites (Mesostigmata: Spinturnicidae) from the Southeastern Region of Brazil

• Grant number: 25/03062-4
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Scientific Initiation
• Start date: July 01, 2025
• End date: June 30, 2026
• Field of knowledge: Agronomical Sciences - Veterinary Medicine - Preventive Veterinary Medicine
• Principal Investigator: Ricardo Bassini Silva
• Grantee: Maria Clara Pigari Rateiro
• Host Institution: Instituto Butantan. Secretaria da Saúde (São Paulo - Estado). São Paulo , SP, Brazil

Abstract

Bats, belonging to the order Chiroptera, are hosts to various hematophagous ectoparasites, including mites from the family Spinturnicidae. Due to their blood-feeding nature and constant association with bats, these mites have the potential to act as vectors of pathogens, including filarioids, posing a zoonotic risk. Preliminary studies have detected filariae resembling Litomosoides in these mites, indicating the possibility of transmission of these parasites. This project aims to investigate the association between Spinturnicidae mites and the presence of filarioids using molecular techniques. The research seeks to expand the understanding of the role of these mites as potential vectors of filarioids and other pathogens, as well as to assess the zoonotic risks associated with this transmission. (AU)