Investigation of filariids in blood, ectoparasites and skin samples from coatis (Nasua nasua) in Campo Grande

Abstract

Coatis (Nasua nasua) (Carnivora: Procyonidae) are wild mammals well adapted to anthropized environments. Considering the frequent contacts of wild carnivores with domestic animals and humans and their role as main reservoirs for many arthropod-borne zoonotic pathogens, constant surveillance is necessary. Indeed, these animals can harbor a plethora of ectoparasites carrying pathogens, which in turn can reach humans and domestic animals. Our research group has been studying the genetic diversity of vector-borne agents in coatis and associated ectoparasites in the state of Mato Grosso do Sul, central-western Brazil, focusing mainly on Bartonellaceae, Anaplasmataceae, Piroplasmida and Mycoplasmataceae agents. These agents have been commonly found in previous molecular studies in wild animals in Brazil; however, information about nematode filarids in coatis' blood and skin samples and associated ectoparasites from Brazil is scant. The present study aims to investigate the diversity of filarial nematodes of coatis in two periurban areas of Campo Grande, Mato Grosso do Sul state, Brazil. For that purpose, 165 blood samples, 20 skin samples and 2241 ticks (715 larvae, 1,298 nymphs and 12 adults) will be submitted to molecular analyses targeting the mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit 1 (cox1) gene of filariid nematodes. Findings from this work will enhance the capacity to predict emerging infectious diseases caused by filariids in central-western Brazil by assessing their distribution, genetic composition, eventually diagnosing unknown species of filariids affecting wild carnivores. (AU)