Serological and molecular techniques applied for identification of Plasmodium spp. in blood samples from nonhuman primates

Author(s)

Pereira Figueiredo, Mayra Araguaia ; Di Santi, Silvia Maria ; Manrique, Wilson Gomez ; Andre, Marcos Rogerio ; Machado, Rosangela Zacarias

• Document type: Journal article
• Source: REVISTA BRASILEIRA DE PARASITOLOGIA VETERINARIA; v. 27, n. 3, p. 14-pg., 2018-07-01.

Abstract

The aim of this study was to identify Plasmodium spp. in blood samples from nonhuman primates (NHPs) in the state of Maranhao, using classical and alternative techniques for examination of human malaria. A total of 161 blood samples from NHPs were analyzed: 141 from captive animals at a Wildlife Screening Center (CETAS) and 20 from free-living animals in a private reserve. The techniques used were microscopy, rapid diagnostic test (RDT), Indirect fluorescent antibody test (IFAT) and molecular techniques (semi-nested PCR, quantitative real-time PCR and LAMP). Two serological methods (dot-ELISA and indirect ELISA) were also standardized with rhoptry protein-soluble antigen of P. falciparum and P. berghei. Trophozoite forms of Plasmodium sp. were identified on slides from five different animals. No samples were positive through RDT and LAMP. Four samples were seropositive for P. malariae through IFAT. The samples showed low reactivity to ELISA. Plasmodium sp. was detected in 34.16% (55/161) of the samples using qPCR based on the 18S rRNA gene. After sequencing, two samples showed 100% identityl to P. malariae, one showed 97% identity to Plasmodium sp. ZOOBH and one showed 99% identity to P. falciparum. PCR was shown to be the most sensitive technique for diagnosing Plasmodium in NHP samples. (AU)

• FAPESP's process: 12/03961-9 - IDENTIFICATION Plasmodium spp. IN NEOTROPICAL PRIMATES AND Anopheles IN THE CITIES OF ISLAND OF SÃO LUIS AND THE CITY IMPERATRIZ, STATE MARANHÃO.
• Grantee: Mayra Araguaia Pereira Figueiredo
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Doctorate
• FAPESP's process: 10/12820-4 - Seroepidemiological and molecular characterization of malarial infection in neotropical primates in the state of Maranhão
• Grantee: Rosangela Zacarias Machado
• Support Opportunities: Regular Research Grants