Haemonchus contortus is the most harmful nematode responsible for severe anemia and mortality in lambs. Conventional control strategies rely heavily on synthetic anthelmintics; however, this approach promotes the generation of anthelmintic (AH) resistance. Plants with AH properties offer a natural alternative for sustainable control. This study evaluated the in vitro nematocidal activity (NA) of hydroalcoholic extracts (E-HOH) obtained from the fruits of Luffa aegyptiaca (sponge gourd) and Prosopis laevigata (mesquite). Qualitative phytochemical analyses were performed to identify secondary compounds in both extracts. The extracts were tested against exsheathed third-stage larvae (L3) of Haemonchus contortus at concentrations of 12.5, 25, 50, and 100 mg/mL. Distilled water and ivermectin (5 mg/mL) were used as controls. Data were analyzed by ANOVA, followed by Tukey's post hoc test (P< 0.05), and lethal concentrations (LC50 and LC90) were determined using PROBIT analysis. Both extracts exhibited NA, achieving ~80% mortality at 100 mg/mL, while concentrations of 50 mg/mL reached >50% mortality (P<0.05). PROBIT analysis confirmed concentration-dependent effects, with LC50 values of 30.78 mg/mL for L. aegyptiaca and 33.96 mg/mL for P. laevigata. Phytochemical identification included alkaloids, flavonoids, coumarins, tannins, triterpenes/sterols, and saponins. These findings suggest that L. aegyptiaca and P. laevigata fruit extracts contain compounds with potent in vitro AH effects against H. contortus L3, highlighting their potential use for controlling haemonchosis in sheep.
Soil-transmitted helminths, especially Ascaris lumbricoides, have remained a significant public health concern in Nigeria, particularly in rural communities. This study assessed the prevalence and intensity of Ascariasis among residents of Aguleri in the Anambra East Local Government Area, Anambra State, Nigeria. The study employed a cross-sectional design and a community-based approach. A total of 362 participants were selected using stratified and convenient sampling methods. Stool specimens collected were examined using direct wet mount and Kato-Katz techniques. The overall prevalence of A. lumbricoides infection was 38.1 %. Males had a higher prevalence (43.7 %) than females (33.0 %) (P = 0.036). Prevalence by age was highest (49.0 %) in children <5 years and lowest (25.4 %) in participants aged 16 - 25 years (P = 0.013). By education, nursery-level participants had the highest prevalence (46.4 %), while those with secondary education had the lowest (26.0 %) (P = 0.002). Occupational variation was significant (P = 0.002), with farmers (55.9 %) the most affected and students the least (15.1 %). Infection intensity was generally light to moderate (range = 24 to 3000 EPG; mean egg count = 192.5 ± 71.1 EPG), though with no significant difference among categories of the variables investigated (P > 0.05). These research findings demonstrate that A. lumbricoides infection occurred at varying prevalences but with similar intensities among groups of infected individuals. This reflects gaps in intervention coverage and compliance. There is therefore a need for further investigation into STH control practices in the study area to ascertain which aspects of the control strategies require improvement.
Dipylidium caninum is a globally distributed zoonotic cestode commonly found in dogs and cats. Recent molecular studies have shown that the D. caninum complex includes largely host-associated canine and feline lineages, but molecular data from many endemic regions remain limited. In Türkiye, most prior reports have relied on conventional parasitological methods, and COX1-based data from dogs remain scarce. In this study, D. caninum from dogs in Iğdır Province, eastern Türkiye, was characterized using a partial mitochondrial COX1 marker. Of 100 dog fecal samples examined, 8 were positive, yielding a molecular prevalence of 8 %. All positive samples shared the same COX1 haplotype, which was deposited in GenBank under accession number PZ299077.1. BLASTn analysis showed that D. caninum GenBank entries with identity values above 90 % were primarily dog-derived, whereas cat-associated sequences generally showed lower identity values. In the phylogenetic analysis, the Iğdır sequence was placed within the broader D. caninum assemblage. It showed affinity with dog-derived sequences from Türkiye, Ghana, the USA, Croatia and China, as well as bush dog-derived sequences from Colombia. However, dog- and cat-associated lineages were not completely separated in the analyzed dataset, and the placement was interpreted as molecular affinity rather than a definitive genotype-level assignment. This study provides one of the first COX1-based molecular records of D. caninum from dogs in Iğdır Province and adds new mitochondrial data from an underrepresented region. Broader sampling and the inclusion of additional mitochondrial and nuclear markers will be important for clarifying the genetic diversity, transmission dynamics and zoonotic relevance of D. caninum in Türkiye.
Fasciolosis infects small ruminants, reduces productivity, and causes considerable economic losses to livestock producers. Despite its economic and veterinary importance, there is a lack of comprehensive studies on fasciolosis in the Malakand Division, Pakistan. Therefore, the study aimed to investigate the prevalence and risk factors associated with fasciolosis in small ruminants in Malakand Division. A total of 1307 rectal fecal samples of sheep and 1274 of goats were collected randomly. The collected fecal samples were examined for Fasciolid eggs using the standard sedimentation technique, followed by microscopic identification based on egg morphology and operculum characteristics. The overall prevalence of fasciolosis in sheep and goats was 3.9 % and 2.04 %, respectively. The present study showed significant differences based on the Chi-square test (P < 0.05) in the prevalence of fasciolosis among animals of different ages, health conditions, drinking water sources, treatment status, and across the four seasons of the study year. Fasciolosis was observed to be significantly higher in young sheep and goats (7.08 %, 2.88 %), in untreated (4.45 %, 2.27 %), emaciated (5.88 %, 5.15 %), stream water drinking (5.41 %, 2.51 %), and during the summer season (6.48 %, 2.98 %), respectively. Microscopic examination revealed the presence of two Fasciola species, Fasciola hepatica and Fasciola gigantica, in fecal samples. However, the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) gene amplification and sequencing were performed for Fasciola gigantica to confirm the species identity and explore genetic relationships. Phylogenetic analysis based on the ITS gene, using a neighbor-joining method implemented in MEGA 11 software, revealed a close genetic relationship between isolates from the Malakand Division and those from Egypt, Iran, Nigeria, and Saudi Arabia. The present study highlights the occurrence of Fasciola species in the area, underscoring age, health status, and treatment practices as key risk factors. These findings provide a foundation for the development of effective control strategies against fasciolosis in small ruminants in the Malakand Division.
A parasitic outbreak of capsalid monogeneans occurred in May 2023 in artisanal cages where yellow snappers (Lutjanus argentiventris) are farmed. Cages are set at the entrance to the Urías Estuary in Mazatlán, northwestern Mexico. The outbreak resulted in the loss of 8,890 fish from an initial stock of 10,000. Twenty fish specimens were examined to determine the cause of death. Massive tissue damage was observed in the hosts’ skin, and a severe infection with capsalid monogeneans was detected. The capsalid was initially identified morphologically as a member of the genus Neobenedenia; however, due to long-standing taxonomic confusion between N. girellae and N. melleni, we further corroborated the identification using ribosomal (28S rRNA) and mitochondrial (cytb) DNA sequences, analyzing sequence divergence values and phylogenetic interrelationships. Photomicrographs of processed specimens, as well as scanning electron photomicrographs, were obtained. The monogenean was identified as Neobenedenia girellae and is reported for the first time as a parasite of farmed L. argentiventris. The monogenean reached very high infection levels, with a prevalence of 100 ¢%, and a mean intensity of 68.2 parasites per infected host. To more accurately describe the effect of this highly pathogenic monogenean on the host, we assessed the body condition factor of the hosts (1.22 ± 0.05). We compared it with the standard value reported in the literature.
Echinococcosis is an important zoonosis that leads to significant health problems and economic losses in livestock. The study aimed to detect cell-free DNA (cfDNA) from hydatid cysts in blood-derived samples and to determine the species/strains of Echinococcus. Hydatid cysts were initially collected from slaughtered sheep and tested for their viability using an eosin stain. Twenty-five rats were injected with 3000 protoscolices into the peritoneal cavity, and after a two-month observation period, they were autopsied. The Casoni test was performed to assess the hypersensitivity reaction to hydatid antigens. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was employed to identify Echinococcus spp. from multiple samples, including the cysts, sera, and plasma. The NADH dehydrogenase genes (nd1) of E. granulosus were targeted at 657 bp, and partial mitochondrial DNA sequences were obtained. The majority of the cysts (80%) were considered actively fertilized/viable. According to the molecular test, all studied samples were related to E. granulosus. The study concluded that E. granulosus is a common species in sheep populations in Basrah. Using cfDNA in plasma is a more efficient method for detecting hydatids than serum and faecal samples. This method is considered highly accurate and feasible for evaluating hydatid cysts in the intermediate hosts, which is critical for the control and therapy of parasitic infections.
Parasitic infections remain a major global health challenge, with helminthiasis causing significant morbidity and economic losses. Limitations of synthetic anthelmintics, such as resistance and toxicity, have encouraged the search for natural plant-based alternatives. Juglans regia (walnut) leaves are rich in bioactive phytochemicals with potential antiparasitic effects. This study aimed to evaluate the anthelmintic efficacy of the methanolic leaf extract of J. regia (JRLE) against Eisenia fetida and to assess, through molecular docking, the potential interactions of its phytochemicals with selected Plasmodium berghei proteins. Fresh J. regia leaves were extracted with 70 % methanol using a maceration technique for 48 h at room temperature to obtain the crude extract. Adult E. fetida worms were treated with JRLE at concentrations of 50, 100, and 200 mg/ml, using mebendazole (10 mg/ml) as a reference and distilled water as a control. Paralysis and death times were recorded, and histological examinations were conducted to assess structural alterations in the worm cuticle. Phytochemicals identified in JRLE were docked against P berghei target proteins (Profilin, L-lactate dehydrogenase, Cytochrome c oxidase, Cytochrome b, and Pyridoxal 5’-phosphate synthase subunit) using Schrodinger Glide XP. JRLE exhibited significant dose-dependent anthelmintic activity, with the 200 mg/ml concentration inducing paralysis and death faster than mebendazole. Histological findings revealed cuticular erosion, epidermal vacuolization, and partial detachment of the cuticle from underlying tissues in treated worms. Molecular docking analysis revealed favorable binding interactions of compounds such as γ-sitosterol, stigmasterol, 3-O-methyl-D-glucose, and 4H-pyran-4-one derivatives with P. berghei target proteins, with docking scores ranging from approximately -4.494 to -9.799 kcal/mol, indicating stable ligand-protein complexes and suggesting potential antiplasmodial activity based on the in silico analysis. These findings demonstrate that JRLE exhibits promising anthelmintic activity and shows in silico evidence of potential antiplasmodial effects; however, further in vitro and in vivo investigations are necessary to validate the efficacy of its phytochemicals against Plasmodium species.
The study investigated the applicability of three different analytical approaches for assessing post-treatment changes in liver enzyme activity following anthelmintic therapy over a 21-day period in cattle naturally infected with fasciolosis. A total of 48 animals were allocated into four groups of 12 cows each: one untreated control group and three treatment groups. Treated cattle received the following anthelmintic combinations: ivermectin plus clorsulon (IVM+CLOR), levamisole plus oxyclozanide (LEV+OXY), and albendazole (ABZ). Biochemical assessments were performed using standardized kinetic and colorimetric methods in accordance with the International Federation of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine (IFCC) guidelines. Pre- and post-treatment changes in hepatic enzymes (aspartate aminotransferase - AST, alanine aminotransferase - ALT) and cholestatic enzymes (alkaline phosphatase - ALP, gamma-glutamyl transferase - GGT) were evaluated. The analyses demonstrated comparable applicability and reliability of quantifying post-treatment enzyme changes when referenced either to pre-treatment or to the control group at the group level, rather than at the individual level. Among the enzymes assessed, all three analytical approaches showed agreeing results of significantly decreased GGT activity by 3.8 - 32.4 % and 21.6 - 47.5 % across treatment groups on Day 7 and 21, respectively, following flukicide administration. These findings underscore the importance of quantifying liver enzyme changes and highlight the relevance of GGT post-treatment alterations. The observed associations between flukicide therapy and biochemical liver profiles may provide a foundation for future studies aimed at elucidating the impact of treatment on clinic-biochemical patterns and the potential for liver recovery following the resolution of chronic fasciolosis in naturally infected cattle.
A total of 61 specimens (26♀♀, 31 ♂♂, and 4 juveniles) of Darevskia clarkorum (Darevsky & Vedmederja, 1977), collected between 2000 and 2005 from five provinces of Türkiye (Ordu, Giresun, Trabzon, Rize, and Artvin) and archived as museum material, were subjected to helminthological examination. As a result of the examinations conducted, 2 Cestoda (Nematotaenia tarentolae, Oochoristica tuberculata), 4 Nematoda (Strongyloides darevskyi, Oswaldocruzia filiformis, Skrjabinodon medinae, Agamospirura sp.), and 1 Acanthocephala (Centrorhynchus sp. larvae) species were identified in the host. In addition, an ectoparasite species in the arthropod belonging to the order Ixodida (Ixodes ricinus) was encountered. Except for Ixodes ricinus, all parasite species have been recorded for the first time in D. clarkorum in the literature. In this respect, the study makes an important contribution to both the species’ parasite fauna and the herpetofauna of Türkiye.
The corn leafhopper, Dalbulus maidis (DeLong & Wolcott) (Hemiptera: Cicadellidae), was considered a secondary pest in Brazilian corn crops. However, from 2015 onwards, there was a significant increase in its population and a high incidence of both pale and red wilt diseases. This species transmits these phytopathogens, elevating its status to a major agricultural pest. It has a high dispersal capability, significant reproductive potential, and adapts to adverse conditions, result in damage to crops by inhibiting plant growth and decreasing yield, leading to financial losses for farmers due to challenges in its control. Accordingly, the study aimed to evaluate the virulence of seven isolates of entomopathogenic nematodes belonging to the Heterorhabditis and Steinernema genera against adult D. maidis, as well as the lethal concentration (LC50), compatibility with insecticides and herbicides used in corn cultivation, and the nematode life cycle within the insect. There was no significant difference between the isolates, and they displayed a mortality rate exceeding 50%. The lethal concentration for H. amazonensis MC01 was 75 IJs adult-1, and for S. feltiae IBCB 47, it was 25 IJs adult-1. No phytosanitary product was found to be harmless to H. amazonensis MC01. The herbicide tembotrione did not affect the viability and infectivity of S. feltiae IBCB 47. The H. amazonensis MC01 and S. feltiae IBCB 47 isolates completed their life cycle in D. maidis adults, with the S. feltiae IBCB 47 isolate showing a longer life cycle than H. amazonensis MC01.
Accurate identification of plant-parasitic nematodes is fundamental to effective crop protection and the maintenance of soil ecosystem integrity. This study integrates morphological characterization with deep learning-based object detection to enhance diagnostic accuracy for economically important nematode genera, Xiphinema and Mesocriconema, associated with vineyards. Three advanced YOLO architectures [YOLO-NAS, YOLOv11, and Roboflow 3.0 (YOLOv8 architecture)] were trained and evaluated on a high-resolution annotated microscopic image dataset consisting of 961 images and 1.034 bounding-box annotations. Although the target nematode genera display considerable morphological variability and genetic divergence among populations, the present investigation focused on genus-level detection of M. xenoplax and X. pachtaicum. These two major ectoparasitic nematodes cause significant damage to grapevine root systems. Among the models tested, YOLOv11 achieved the highest detection accuracy, with a precision of 95.7 % and an mAP@50 of 93.2 %. YOLO-NAS exhibited comparable performance (mAP@50 = 92.7 %, precision = 93.1 %, recall = 84.9 %), while Roboflow 3.0 (YOLOv8 architecture) yielded satisfactory results (mAP@50 = 89.4 %), indicating its applicability for real-time diagnostic workflows. This integration of taxonomic expertise with deep learning represents a new methodological framework for nematode identification. All models exhibited rapid convergence and stable learning dynamics during training. The findings underscore the potential of YOLO-based frameworks as efficient, scalable, and reproducible tools that complement classical morphological and molecular identification, contributing to precision agriculture and sustainable nematode management strategies.
Cystic hydatid disease, caused by Echinococcus granulosus, is a major zoonotic infection with significant public health and economic impact in endemic regions, including Iraq. This study aimed to detect the mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) gene in E. granulosus and to characterise hydatid cysts based on morphological and pathological features, including cyst wall layers, cyst type, and organ involvement, in Duhok Governorate, the Kurdistan Region of Iraq (KRI). In this study, characterisation refers to the classification of hydatid cysts by type (fertile, infertile, or calcified) and organ involvement. Of the 58 hydatid cyst samples collected, 17 were from humans, and 41 were from sheep. Cysts were classified according to organ involvement and cyst type (fertile, infertile, or calcified). Among sheep samples, 75.6 % were fertile, 21.9 % infertile, and 2.4 % calcified, whereas human samples showed 82.4 % fertile, 5.9 % infertile, and 11.8 % calcified cysts. Molecular detection using PCR targeting the COI gene confirmed the presence of E. granulosus DNA in 40 sheep and 15 human samples. Nineteen PCR-positive samples were selected for sequencing, resulting in 13 high-quality sequences (three human and ten sheep isolates) that were successfully submitted to GenBank. Statistical analysis showed no significant association between host type and host gender, infection type, or PCR positivity (p > 0.05). However, significant associations were observed between cyst type and organ involvement, cyst type and PCR results, and PCR results and affected organs (p < 0.05). Overall, the findings support the usefulness of COI-based PCR for molecular detection of E. granulosus and highlight the value of integrating cyst characterisation with molecular approaches to improve epidemiological understanding and support control strategies in endemic areas.
The original description of Neoechinorhynchus (N.) iraqensis Amin, Al-Sady, Mhaisen, Bassat, 2001, from Planiliza abu (Heckel) in the Euphrates River, Iraq, is updated and completed, for the first time, using ocular microscopy and SEM, despite its repeated discovery by various observers in Iraqi waters. No descriptive accounts were provided in these earlier reports. Structures originally described in line drawings are currently demonstrated considerably more clearly in life-like 3-dimensional forms. New morphological features constituting partial revision are reported herein for the first time. Proboscis hooks, anterior trunk topography, reproductive structures organization, and egg anatomy were particularly emphasized. The DNA sequence of the small subunit of nuclear ribosomal RNA (18S) was used to substantiate its morphological distinction. Maximum likelihood and Bayesian inference analyses were performed, which showed that Neoechinorhynchus (N.) iraqensis formed a clade with strong bootstrap support and Bayesian posterior probability.
Schistosomiasis continues to affect the health and quality of life of millions worldwide. Schistosomiasis is ranked as the second most significant targeted tropical disease after malaria. Praziquantel (PZQ) is the sole medication authorized by the World Health Organization (WHO) for the treatment of schistosomiasis. The sole drug has led to the development of parasite resistance. Consequently, the pursuit of novel alternatives has been the objective of numerous researchers. The use of nanotechnology in the treatment of schistosomiasis is of paramount importance for mitigating the adverse effects associated with chemotherapy. This study evaluated the effects of green-synthesized zinc oxide nanoparticles by Artemisia annua on Schistosoma mansoni, which infected Mesocricetus auratus both in vitro and in vivo at various doses of 100, 50, 25, 12.5, 6.25, and 3.125 μg/ml as well as in mixtures with PZQ at concentrations of 12.5+0.4, 25+0.3, 50+0.2 and 75+0.1 μg/ml. Adult S. mansoni worms were subjected to in vitro testing in the RPMI-1640 medium for a duration of 48 hours. At a concentration of 100 μg/ml, it caused 100 % mortality after 6 hours, whereas concentrations of 50 and 25 μg/ml resulted in complete mortality after 12 hours. At a concentration of 12.5 μg/ml, praziquantel alone caused the worms to die after 24 hours, whereas praziquantel combined with ZnO nanoparticles was more effective, causing death after 18 hours. Treatment with zinc oxide nanoparticles significantly decreased both the size and number of granulomas, along with the amount of eggs in the liver tissues of hamsters. All prior studies consistently corroborated the characteristics of ZnONPs synthesized using Artemisia annua. The results show that in laboratory experiments, green ZnO nanoparticles combined with PZQ exhibited significant efficacy against Schistosoma mansoni.
Nematode infections pose a threat to backyard chickens, presenting serious health and productivity challenges. The study aimed to assess risk factors related to pathological changes and the effect of mebendazole and its derivatives against nematode infections in domestic chickens. A total of 456 chicken faecal samples were randomly collected and analysed using the direct smear, flotation methods and sedimentation method, and histopathological analysis was performed. Sixty infected chickens were divided into three groups: X (control), Y (mebendazole), and Z (derivative), treated orally at 10 mg/kg for three days. Data were analyzed in R (v2025) to compute percentages, 95 % CIs, p-values, and odds ratios. Overall, 72 % (330/456) of chickens were infected, with nematode parasite, Ascaridia galli, being the most prevalent species, 38.5 % (127/330). Single infections were the most common 70.3 % (232/330), followed by double infections 24.5 % (81/330), and triple infections 5.2 % (17/330). Infections were more common during the wet season 65 % (215/330) and were higher in females 74.6 % (200/267), young 85 % (233/274), and weak chickens 90.6 % (126/139), free-range systems 74.3 % (255/355) and non-dewormed chickens 73.3 % (262/356). Multivariate logistic analysis showed significant associations (p < 0.05) with age, gender body condition, and management type, Histopathological alterations revealed hemorrhagic enteritis, necrotic patches, intestinal inflammation, submucosal oedema, glandular hyperplasia and villous atrophy. Anthelmintic trials demonstrated that both Mebendazole and its derivative significantly reduced the eggs per gram (EPG) of faecal samples of roundworm, with the derivative being more effective. Nematode infections cause significant health problems and economic losses in poultry; therefore, improved management, sanitation, and regular deworming practices are essential to effectively control parasitic infections in domestic chickens.
Domestic livestock, particularly cattle, are crucial for food security, economic growth, and poverty reduction in Pakistan. Ascarid nematodes are parasitic worms that significantly impact cattle health, causing morbidity and mortality in these animals. However, information on the molecular characterization and prevalence of ascarid infections in the cattle population of Malakand Division is limited. A total of 230 stool samples were collected from cattle across five districts in Pakistan, specifically Swat, Bunir, Bajaur, Lower Dir, and Upper Dir, between October 2022 and September 2023. Routine fecal examinations were conducted using a combined approach of sedimentation, flotation, and centrifugation to effectively recover ascarid eggs. DNA was extracted from the eggs, and a partial sequence of the Cox-1 gene, a widely used molecular marker for nematode identification, was amplified via polymerase chain reaction (PCR). The PCR products were sequenced, and their sequences were compared with those in the NCBI GenBank database. A phylogenetic tree was constructed using the Neighbour-Joining method. The study identified two ascarid species: Toxocara vitulorum (31.30 %, 72/230) and Ascaris suum (21.30 %, 49/230), with A. suum being reported in Pakistan for the first time. The Cox-1 sequences involved 441 bp, with an isolate from Upper Dir showing 97.77 % similarity to T. vitulorum and a 435 bp isolate from Lower Dir being 99 % identical to A. suum. A high infection rate was observed in cattle grazing in hilly areas. This research highlights the prevalence and genetic diversity of ascarid nematodes in the local cattle population, confirming Cox-1 as a reliable genetic marker for identification. Further studies are essential to investigate transmission dynamics and develop effective control measures to ensure livestock health and improve the economic status of families in Malakand and across Pakistan.
Zoonotic helminth infections remain a persistent public health challenge across Africa, causing considerable morbidity and economic losses in both humans and livestock. The emergence of anthelmintic resistance and limited access to conventional treatments have intensified interest in alternative therapeutic approaches. Medicinal plants, long used in traditional medicine, represent a promising source of bioactive compounds with potential anthelmintic activity. This scoping review examined the diversity, efficacy, and ethnopharmacological relevance of African medicinal plants traditionally used to treat helminthiasis, with a specific focus on Echinococcus granulosus, Taenia solium, and Fasciola hepatica. Following PRISMA guidelines, a systematic search of electronic databases identified 78 studies published between 2005 and May 2025, comprising 31 ethnobotanical surveys and 47 pharmacological investigations. Most studies focused on E. granulosus (n=19), followed by T. solium and F. hepatica (14 each). Ethnobotanical surveys reported 207 plant species from 54 families, while 57 species were evaluated pharmacologically. The most frequently studied families were Lamiaceae, Moringaceae, Euphorbiaceae, and Apocynaceae. Most studies relied on crude extracts, with few isolating or characterizing bioactive compounds. No clinical trials were reported, and methodological heterogeneity limited cross study comparability. Despite these limitations, several plant species demonstrated promising anthelmintic activity. This review highlights the underrepresented African contribution to ethnopharmacology and proposes future research directions, including bioassay-guided isolation, mechanistic studies, in vivo validation, and clinical evaluation. Integrating plant-based investigations within One Health strategies may provide affordable, accessible, and sustainable solutions for communities most affected by zoonotic helminths.
Ocular and orbital dirofilariasis, though rare, can mimic common eye infections or other conditions and lead to misdiagnosis. We present a series of four patients with ocular and orbital dirofilariasis in Sisak-Moslavina County of Croatia, emphasizing the variable clinical presentations and diagnostic challenges. Ocular dirofilariasis should be considered in patients with unexplained symptoms, particularly in endemic or rural areas. Detailed anamnesis and timely surgical intervention are essential for accurate diagnosis and management.
Fish are an essential source of high-quality protein and micronutrients. Yet parasitic infections often compromise safety. Anisakid nematodes, such as Hysterothylacium thalassini, are widely distributed in marine fish, including the greater lizardfish Saurida tumbil, and pose potential risks to human health. Infection with anisakid larvae is associated with oxidative stress, inflammatory responses, immune dysregulation, and apoptosis. Natural products rich in bioactive compounds may provide effective protection against these pathological effects. Desert truffles (Terfezia claveryi) possess well-documented antioxidant and immunomodulatory properties, but their activity against anisakid infections remains poorly characterized. This study investigated the protective effects of Terfezia claveryi extract (TCE) against experimental H. thalassini third-stage (L3) larval infection in a murine model, focusing on antioxidant activity, hematological changes, splenic immune responses, and Caspase-3-mediated apoptosis. TCE was prepared by methanol-water extraction, and its antioxidant potential was evaluated using the FRAP, DPPH, and ABTS assays. Forty male C57BL/6 mice were allocated into eight groups, including uninfected controls, TCE-treated mice, and mice infected with fresh, thermal, or frozen L3 larvae, with or without TCE treatment. After 14 days, hematological indices, spleen index, and Caspase-3 expression were assessed using immunohistochemistry, quantitative reverse transcription PCR, and ELISA. Larval infection induced significant anemia, leukocytosis, splenomegaly, and marked upregulation of Caspase-3, indicating enhanced oxidative stress and apoptotic activity. TCE administration significantly improved hemoglobin, red blood cell, hematocrit, platelet, and white blood cell values and reduced the spleen index. Caspase-3 expression was downregulated at both mRNA and protein levels, with ELISA-confirmed reductions in apoptotic markers (from 1178.37 ± 64.94 pg/mL in untreated infected mice to 744.79 ± 65.82 pg/mL following treatment). In conclusion, TCE exhibits potent antioxidant, anti-apoptotic, and immunomodulatory effects that alleviate H. thalassini-induced hematological and splenic alterations, supporting its potential as a natural therapeutic candidate against fishborne parasitic infections globally.
This study represents the first integrated epidemiological and molecular characterisation of the monogenean Sparicotyle chrysophrii in wild and farmed gilthead seabream Sparus aurata populations across seven Tunisian localities. Prevalence in the different localities ranged 37.5 % - 63.6 % in wild fish and 29.4 % - 90.0 % in farmed fish. Population genetic variation and phylogenetic relationships were inferred by incorporating novel and existing haplotype data from various Mediterranean regions, using the structural ribosomal RNA (rRNA) for the large subunit (28S) and the cytochrome oxidase subunit I (COI) gene. Phylogenetic analysis of the 28S rDNA sequences revealed a monophyletic group with a distinct clade closely related to Microcotyle. The haplotype network exhibited a star-like pattern, supporting recent demographic expansion across the Mediterranean Sea. This expansion was reflected in genetic diversity indices, which showed high haplotype diversity and low nucleotide diversity. Negative neutrality test values further suggested a recent population expansion. Phylogenetic analysis of COI sequences revealed no significant phylogenetic differentiation, with samples from various Mediterranean regions clustering into a monophyletic clade. The mismatch distribution for Tunisian samples displayed a unimodal pattern, confirming this demographic expansion. Genetic distances based on COI sequences revealed a 1.15 % divergence between Tunisian and Algerian samples, with the lowest pairwise FST value, suggesting a shared evolutionary history, as supported by the haplotype network. AMOVA analysis of Tunisian samples revealed that 92.77 % of the variance was attributed to individual differences, with a moderate FST value, indicating the absence of significant genetic structuring within populations. The presence of shared haplotypes confirmed the potential for pathogen transfer between wild and farmed fish populations. Overall, the COI data suggested that host biological characteristics play a significant role in shaping the genetic structure of S. chrysophrii populations, as evidenced by the lack of significant phylogenetic divergence across the Mediterranean Sea.
