Abstract
In this study, we investigated the use of recombinant antigens thioredoxin peroxidase-1 (rSjTPx-1) and tandem repeat rSj1TR in evaluating the antibody positivity rates of Schistosoma japonicum infection among water buffaloes from four endemic areas in the Philippines, two municipalities with high endemicity (Calatrava, Negros Occidental and Catarman, Northern Samar) and two municipalities nearing elimination with no cases of human schistosomiasis (Talibon and Trinidad, Bohol). These recombinant antigen ELISA assays were compared with other diagnostic tests including SEA-ELISA, FECT, and fecal-based PCR. Results showed that rSj1TR-ELISA has the highest agreement with PCR in all study areas. Furthermore, significant positivity rates among water buffaloes were seen in Talibon and Trinidad, indicating that water buffaloes are maintaining the schistosome parasites in transmission areas even in the absence of human infection. Hence, serological assay using a more sensitive and specific rSj1TR-ELISA can be used for animal surveillance to prevent emergence and re-emergence of human schistosomiasis.
Highlights
IntroductionBecause of their continuous exposure to the parasite in transmission areas, it was suggested that water buffaloes should be considered as the sentinel animal in the surveillance of zoonotic schistosomiasis [1]
Water buffaloes are an important reservoir for Schistosoma japonicum in schistosomiasis-endemic countries including China and the Philippines
While all the microscopy positive samples tested positive for PCR, not all those which tested positive for the PCR were positive by microscopy showing that agreements between the two tests are very low in all these areas except in Talibon
Summary
Because of their continuous exposure to the parasite in transmission areas, it was suggested that water buffaloes should be considered as the sentinel animal in the surveillance of zoonotic schistosomiasis [1]. Using fecal samples spiked with S. japonicum eggs, it has a detection limit of one schistosome egg proving its high sensitivity (unpublished data) These tests require expertise, costly reagents and equipment that may not be available in remote, endemic areas. A tedious parasitological technique called Danish Bilharziasis Laboratory method (DBL) employing several sieves in catching the schistosome eggs has been recommended as an alternative means of diagnosis in animals [4] This method is time-consuming, laborious and cannot be used in large surveys
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