Molecular identification of Theileria spp in cattle from Iwo Osun state, Nigeria

Abstract

Theileria is an haemoparasitic protozoa causing disease known as theileriosis in animals. The disease is transmitted by tick vectors. Theileria circulates in cattle and causes the dairy industry to suffer significant financial losses as it affects milk and livestock production, especially in the sub-Saharan region. The endoparasite can exist in sub-clinical state in cattle that are carriers, these cattle transmit the diseases and become reservoir of infection for ticks. In Nigeria, diagnosis of this parasite in cattle has been done mainly through light microscopy of Giemsa stain; molecular diagnosis report is scanty. Hence, this work was to identify and characterise Theileria species infecting healthy cattle in Iwo Osun state, Nigeria utilizing molecular genetic approach (PCR and 18S rRNA gene sequencing). In this cross-sectional investigation, blood was drawn aseptically from healthy cows’ jugular veins using a sterile needle and syringe. Whatmann filter paper No. 3 was spotted with blood. Cloning and sequencing of 18S rRNA gene was done for three samples that successfully amplified. Phylogenetic analysis showed two Theileria species comprising one T. velifera and two T. mutans. The outcome of this work will help the decision-making process for developing control measures for theileriosis in healthy cows in Iwo Osun state, Nigeria.