The effect of Momordica charantia extract on sheep infected with Haemonchus contortus.

Bitter melon (Momordica charantia) has several biological properties including anthelmintic activity. Presented in vivo study evaluated the anthelmintic activity of the hydroalcoholic extract of M. charantia Presented in vivo study (HEMC) and its effect on animal performance, carcass characteristics and lamb meat quality in animals infected by Haemonchus contortus. The HEMC demonstrated effectiveness against the parasite. Lambs treated with HEMC showed a significant reduction in egg count per gram of faeces and in the number of parasites in the abomasum. However, nutrient intake decreased with increasing doses of HEMC, leading to reductions in final live weight and carcass weight. No significant effects were observed on meat quality. Therefore, it is concluded that HEMC presents anthelmintic action, but it also impairs animal performance, highlighting the need to assess the benefits and impacts of HEMC use for H. contortus control.

In vitro ovicidal effect of p-coumaric acid from Acacia bilimekii aerial parts against Haemonchus contortus.

Acacia bilimekii is a plant with a high content of protein, fibre, and condensed tannins, making it an excellent feed for small ruminants with anthelmintic potential. This study aimed to evaluate the ovicidal activity of a hydroalcoholic extract (Ab-HA) and fractions from A. bilimekii aerial parts on Haemonchus contortus. The ovicidal activity of the Ab-HA extract and its fractions obtained by chromatographic fractionation were evaluated through the egg hatching inhibition (EHI) test. The results showed that the Ab-HA extract had 91% EHI at 20,000 µg/mL with a mean effective concentration (EC50) of 9260 µg/mL. After liquid-liquid fractionation of Ab-HA extract, the aqueous fraction (Ab-Aq) did not show ovicidal activity, whereas the organic fraction (Ab-EtOAc) showed a better EHI than the Ab-HA extract (98.9% at 2500 µg/mL). Then, the chemical fractionation of Ab-EtOAc allowed obtaining six bioactive fractions (AbR12-17) with an EHI greater than 90% at 1500 µg/mL. The best treatment was AbR15 (98.7% EHI at 750 µg/mL). Chemical analysis by HPLC-PDA of AbR15 indicated the presence of p-coumaric acid and the flavone luteolin as major compounds. Additionally, the commercial p-coumaric acid standard was evaluated in the EHI assay and showed an EHI of 97% at 62.5 µg/mL. Meanwhile, the confocal laser scanning microscopy analysis demonstrated a colocalization effect between p-coumaric acid and the H. contortus embryonated eggs. These results indicate that due to their major chemical compounds (including p-coumaric acid), the aerial parts of the plant A. bilimekii, could be considered as natural potential tool for controlling haemonchosis in small ruminants.

Relationship between FAMACHA© scores and zootechnical indicators of a sheep production system / Relação entre os graus FAMACHA© e indicadores zootécnicos de um sistema de produção de ovinos

In Brazil, lamb producers face challenges raising their animals because of high anthelmintic resistance and loss of productivity due to parasites. It is well known that parasitic infections can reduce the performance of sheep. However, until the publication of this work, no research was found that quantified the effects that anemia reflected by FAMACHA© scores can exert on other zootechnical indicators in a lamb production system. The objective of this study was to use the FAMACHA© scores to quantify the impacts of anemia in ewes at breeding and lambing on the productive and reproductive performance of a meat sheep flock. The variables evaluated were i) FAMACHA© score of ewes at breeding and lambing, ii) body condition score of ewes at breeding and at lambing, iii) average daily gain of lambs until weaning, iv) ewe's age, v) birth weights per individual lamb and litter, vi) weaning weight, vii) ewe's weight, viii) litter size and ix) pre-weaning survival. The treatments evaluated corresponded to the FAMACHA© score of the ewes during breeding and lambing. Quantitative responses were submitted to analyses of variance and compared by Duncan's test. In contrast, qualitative or discrete responses were evaluated by the Kruskal & Wallis test and compared to Dunn's test. The Wilcoxon test was performed to compare the FAMACHA©scores of ewes at breeding and lambing. All statistical analyzes were performed using the R-Studio software version 4.2.0 at a 5% significance level. The FAMACHA© score of breeding ewes was related to the body condition score at breeding, ewe weight, pre-weaning survival, ewe age, litter size, and birth weight. Furthermore, the FAMACHA© score of ewes at lambing was related to the body condition score at lambing, ewe weight, pre-weaning survival, birth weight per lamb and litter, pre-weaning average daily gain, weaning weight, and age of the ewe. There was no significant difference between the test times of the FAMACHA© scores of the ewes, indicating that an ewe will present a similar score at both stages. It was concluded that ewes with FAMACHA© scores of 4 and 5 and their offspring showed the worst productive and reproductive performances. Conversely, the ewes with FAMACHA© 1 obtained the opposite result, demonstrating better technical performance.(AU)

No Brasil, produtores de cordeiros enfrentam desafios na criação de seus animais devido à alta resistência anti-helmíntica e perda de produtividade devido a parasitoses. Sabe-se que as infecções parasitárias podem reduzir o desempenho de matrizes ovinas, contudo, até a elaboração desse trabalho não foram encontradas pesquisas que mensuraram os efeitos que a anemia refletida pelos graus FAMACHA© podem exercer sobre outros indicadores zootécnicos em um sistema de produção de cordeiros. Sendo assim, o objetivo desse estudo foi quantificar os impactos das verminoses em matrizes ovinas, representadas pelo grau FAMACHA©, durante a estação de monta e a parição, no desempenho produtivo e reprodutivo de um rebanho ovino de corte. As variáveis avaliadas foram: i) grau FAMACHA© das matrizes à monta e ao parto, ii) escore de condição corporal das matrizes à monta e ao parto, iii) ganho médio diário até o desmame, iv) idade da matriz, v) pesos dos cordeiros ao nascer individual e por parto, vi) peso ao desmame, vii) peso da matriz, viii) prolificidade e ix) sobrevivência pré-desmame. Os tratamentos avaliados corresponderam ao grau FAMACHA© das matrizes durante a monta e parto. As respostas quantitativas foram submetidas à análise de variância e comparadas pelo teste de Duncan, já as respostas qualitativas ou discretas foram avaliadas pelo teste de Kruskal & Wallis e comparadas pelo teste de Dunn. Realizou-se o teste de Wilcoxon para comparar os graus FAMACHA© das matrizes nos momentos de monta e parto. Todas as análises estatísticas foram realizadas no software R-Studio versão 4.2.0 ao nível de 5% de significância. O grau FAMACHA© das matrizes à monta foi relativo ao escore de condição corporal à monta, peso da matriz, sobrevivência pré-desmame, idade da matriz, prolificidade e peso ao nascer coletivo por parto. Já o grau FAMACHA© das matrizes ao parto foi relativo ao escore de condição corporal ao parto, peso da matriz, sobrevivência pré-desmame, pesos ao nascer individual e coletivo por parto, ganho médio diário pré-desmame, peso ao desmame e idade da matriz. Não houve diferença significativa entre os momentos dos graus FAMACHA© das matrizes, indicando que uma ovelha manterá um grau FAMACHA© similar em ambas as fases. Conclui-se que ovelhas com graus FAMACHA© 4 e 5, assim como suas crias, apresentaram os piores desempenhos produtivos e reprodutivos. Em contrapartida, as matrizes com FAMACHA©1 obtiveram o resultado oposto, mostrando indicadores zootécnicos com valores mais eficientes ao sistema de produção.(AU)

Mortality caused by gastrointestinal nematodes in beef cattle submitted to an inadequate sanitary protocol / Mortalidade causada por nematódeos gastrintestinais em bovinos de corte submetidos a protocolo sanitário inadequado

The aim of this study was to describe the epidemiological, clinical, and pathological findings of two outbreaks of gastrointestinal nematode infections in beef cattle kept under an inadequate sanitary protocol. An outbreak of trichostrongylosis occurred in Amambai, Mato Grosso do Sul (MS), from May to July 2016. The herd consisted of 3,000 Nellore cows, and of these, fifteen died after showing emaciation and diarrhea and remaining in recumbency. At necropsy, the abomasum showed edema in the folds, white, raised areas, multifocal to coalescent, and small ulcers. Histopathology showed larvae compatible with trichostrongylid nematodes were present inside the abomasum glands. Trichostrongylus axei was identify in the abomasum. The hemonchosis outbreak began in October 2018, in a breeding and finishing property in Santa Rita do Pardo, MS. Of 4,000 cattle aged 8 to 18 months, 673 became ill and 117 died. Clinical signs were emaciation, weakness, dehydration, submandibular edema, and soft stools. At necropsy, large numbers of nematodes were found in the abomasum; they were morphologically classified as Haemonchus placei. Both outbreaks were caused by failures in the parasite control protocol. However, in Outbreak I, frost and immune stress caused by lack of food may have contributed to the deaths. In Outbreak I, the main failure in the devermination protocol was the use of anthelmintics without carrying out an efficacy test. In Outbreak II, there was no parasite control protocol in the rearing and finishing property, and in the breeding property, there was resistance to the anthelmintic used (ivermectin). The two outbreaks highlight the importance of gastrointestinal nematode control protocols in cattle and demonstrate that infections by T. axei and H. placei can be lethal for this species.

O objetivo deste trabalho foi descrever os achados epidemiológicos, clínicos e patológicos de dois surtos de verminose em bovinos de corte mantidos sob protocolo sanitário inadequado. Um surto de tricostrongilose ocorreu em Amambai, Mato Grosso do Sul (MS), de maio a julho de 2016. O rebanho de cria era composto por 3.000 vacas Nelore, das quais, quinze vacas adultas morreram após apresentarem emagrecimento, diarreia e permanecerem em decúbito. Na necropsia, o abomaso apresentava edema das pregas, áreas brancacentas, elevadas, multifocais a coalescentes e pequenas úlceras. Na histopatologia, larvas compatíveis com nematódeos tricostrongilídeos estavam presentes no interior das glândulas do abomaso. A recuperação de helmintos do abomaso demonstrou que Trichostrongylus axei foi o principal agente etiológico. O surto de hemoncose iniciou-se em outubro de 2018, em uma propriedade de recria e terminação em Santa Rita do Pardo, MS. Do total de 4 mil bovinos com 8 a 18 meses, 673 adoeceram e 117 morreram. Os sinais clínicos foram emagrecimento, fraqueza, desidratação, edema submandibular e fezes pastosas. Na necropsia, havia grande quantidade de nematódeos no abomaso, que foram classificados morfologicamente como Haemonchus placei. Ambos os surtos foram causados por falhas no protocolo de controle parasitário, porém, no Surto I, geadas e estresse imunológico causado pela falta de alimento podem ter contribuído para as mortes. No Surto I, a principal falha no protocolo de desverminação foi o uso de anti-helmínticos sem a realização de teste de eficácia. No Surto II, não havia protocolo de controle parasitário na propriedade de recria e terminação, e na propriedade de cria, havia resistência ao anti-helmíntico utilizado (ivermectina). Os dois surtos ressaltam a importância dos protocolos de controle de nematódeos gastrintestinais em bovinos e demonstram que infecções por T. axei e H. placei podem ser letais para esta espécie.

In-vitroeffect of the methanolic extract of Momordica charantia on hatching of eggs of haemonchussp / Efecto in-vitro del extracto metanólico de Momordica charantia sobre la eclosión de huevos de haemonchus sp

Background: Endoparasitism, particularly infections by gastrointestinal nematodes (e.g., Haemochus sp.), has been associated with economic losses within sheep production systems in tropical regions. Thus, implementing therapeutic alternatives that are environmentally sustainable is essential for parasite integral control programs. Objectives: Evaluate in-vitro the effect of Momordica charantia methanolic extract on the Haemonchus sp. eggs' hatching process. Methods: Nematode eggs were retrieved from experimentally infected sheep and exposed to 10, 20, 40, 80, and 160 mg/mL of methanolic extract of M. charantia. Hatching percentages were recorded from five replicates, and CL50 and CL90 were estimated through Probit regression analysis. Results: A significant effect on the hatching percentages were observed, from 24.2% up to 84.6% inhibition (p<0.05). The LC50 and LC90 estimated were 52.2 mg/mL (95%CI 37.87-63.22) and 201.45 mg/mL (95%CI 186.01-221.89), respectively. Utilizing a preliminary phytochemical analysis, potential antihelmintic compounds such as alkaloid, triterpenes, and anthracenic glycosides groups were identified in the methanolic extract. Conclusions: In the in-vitro test, the methanolic extract of M. charantia was effective in inhibiting the hatching of Haemonchus sp., which is important to promote other bio-guided fractionation studies of this plant on different life stages of H. contortus, this being a plant species widely adapted to the conditions of the piedmont (foothills) of Meta, Colombia

Introducción: El endoparasitismo, particularmente las infecciones causadas por nematodos gastrointestinales (p. ej., Haemonchussp.), ha sido asociado con pérdidas económicas en los sistemas de producción ovina de los países del trópico. Por lo tanto, es esencial la implementación de alternativas terapéuticas sostenibles para el ambiente con el fin de efectuar programas de control integrado del parásito. Objetivos: Evaluar el efecto in-vitro de los extractos metanólicos de M. charantia sobre el proceso de eclosión de los huevos de Haemonchus sp. Métodos: Los huevos derivados de un ovino monoinfestado se expusieron a concentraciones de 10, 20, 40, 80 y 160 mg/mL del extracto metanólico de M. charantia. Se registraron los porcentajes de eclosión de cinco réplicas, y la obtención de CL50 y CL90 se realizó a través de regresión lineal por el método Probit. Resultados:Se observó un efecto significativo en los porcentajes de eclosión; una inhibición desde 24.2% hasta 84.6% (p<0.05). Finalmente se estimaron CL50 y CL90 de 52.2 mg/mL (95%IC 37.87-63.22) y 201.45 mg/mL (95%IC 186.01-221.89), respectivamente. Así mismo, utilizando un análisis fitoquímico preliminar; en el extracto metanólico de M. charantia se identificaron compuestos antihelmínticos potenciales, tales como alcaloides, triterpenos, y glucósidos antracénicos.Conclusiones: En las pruebas in-vitro, el extracto metanólico de M. charantia fue eficaz para inhibir la eclosión de Haemonchus sp., lo cual es importante para promover otros estudios de fraccionamiento bio-guiados de esta planta sobre diferentes estadios de vida de H. contortus, siendo esta una especie vegetal ampliamente adaptada a las condiciones del piedemonte del Meta, Colombia

Efficacy of Tithonia diversifolia (Hemsl) A. Gray on the inhibition of larval development of Haemonchus contortus / Eficácia de Tithonia diversifolia(Hemsl) A. Gray na inibição do desenvolvimento larval de Haemonchus contortus

Sheep farming is an important economic activity from a commercial and subsistence perspective. However, helminth infections present a large sanitary problem for the production, especially haemonchosis caused by strains resistant to traditional anthelmintics. Here, we evaluated the effects of the stem and leaf of Tithonia diversifolia on the inhibition of Haemonchus contortus larval development. We performed a quantitative fecal culture test with feces of sheep inoculated with larvae tolerant to albendazole. Fecal cultures were treated with leaf or stem powder and were compared to the controls containing distilled water or levamisole. The T. diversifolia leaf and stem powders significantly reduced the production of H. contortus larvae. However, leaf powder was more effective, with 64.95% efficacy in the reduction of larvae production, representing a promising alternative in the integrated control of this nematode.  

A ovinocultura é uma importante atividade econômica em escala comercial e de subsistência. No entanto, um dos maiores desafios nessa atividade são as verminoses, destacando-se a haemoncose ocasionada por cepas resistentes a anti-helmínticos. Neste estudo objetivou-se avaliar o efeito do caule e folha de Tithonia diversifolia soba inibição do desenvolvimento de larvas de Haemonchus contortus. Foram realizadas coproculturas quantitativas com fezes de ovinos inoculados com larvas do nematódeo toleranteao albendazol. Foram avaliadas as produções de larvas infectantes em coproculturas tratadas: com pó da folha e do caule e com o extrato aquoso do caule da planta comparando-se com o tratamento controle contendo água destilada e levamisol. O pó da folha e do caule de T. diversifoliareduziram significativamente a produção de larvas infectantes de H. contortus. Entretanto, o pó das folhas foi mais efetivo, promovendo eficácia de 64,95% na redução de larvas em coproculturas, representando uma alternativa promissora no controle integrado do nematódeo.(AU)

Efficacy of Tithonia diversifolia (Hemsl) A. Gray on the inhibition of larval development of Haemonchus contortus / Eficácia de Tithonia diversifolia(Hemsl) A. Gray na inibição do desenvolvimento larval de Haemonchus contortus

Sheep farming is an important economic activity from a commercial and subsistence perspective. However, helminth infections present a large sanitary problem for the production, especially haemonchosis caused by strains resistant to traditional anthelmintics. Here, we evaluated the effects of the stem and leaf of Tithonia diversifolia on the inhibition of Haemonchus contortus larval development. We performed a quantitative fecal culture test with feces of sheep inoculated with larvae tolerant to albendazole. Fecal cultures were treated with leaf or stem powder and were compared to the controls containing distilled water or levamisole. The T. diversifolia leaf and stem powders significantly reduced the production of H. contortus larvae. However, leaf powder was more effective, with 64.95% efficacy in the reduction of larvae production, representing a promising alternative in the integrated control of this nematode.

A ovinocultura é uma importante atividade econômica em escala comercial e de subsistência. No entanto, um dos maiores desafios nessa atividade são as verminoses, destacando-se a haemoncose ocasionada por cepas resistentes a anti-helmínticos. Neste estudo objetivou-se avaliar o efeito do caule e folha de Tithonia diversifolia soba inibição do desenvolvimento de larvas de Haemonchus contortus. Foram realizadas coproculturas quantitativas com fezes de ovinos inoculados com larvas do nematódeo toleranteao albendazol. Foram avaliadas as produções de larvas infectantes em coproculturas tratadas: com pó da folha e do caule e com o extrato aquoso do caule da planta comparando-se com o tratamento controle contendo água destilada e levamisol. O pó da folha e do caule de T. diversifoliareduziram significativamente a produção de larvas infectantes de H. contortus. Entretanto, o pó das folhas foi mais efetivo, promovendo eficácia de 64,95% na redução de larvas em coproculturas, representando uma alternativa promissora no controle integrado do nematódeo.

In vitro ovicidal activity of Baccharis conferta Kunth against Haemonchus contortus.

The indiscriminate use of chemical drugs to deworm livestock tends to trigger an anthelmintic resistance problem. In this context, the use of plant extracts rich in secondary metabolites could be an alternative method for the control of gastrointestinal nematodes. Baccharis conferta Kunth is a native plant species from Mexico that is widely used by several ethnic groups as forage for farm animals and medicinally to treat gastrointestinal diseases such as acute stomach ache, dysentery, diarrhoea, vomiting, indigestion, colic, intestinal spasms, urinary problems, and cramps. The aim of the present study was to isolate and characterise the ovicidal constituents of B. conferta and to determine a possible mode of action against Haemonchus contortus. The ovicidal activity was determined using the egg hatching inhibition test (EHI) to assess the methanol extract obtained from B. conferta foliage. The dry extract was partitioned (water/ethyl acetate) to obtain an ethyl acetate (BcEtOAc-F) and aqueous fraction. BcEtOAc-F showed an ovicidal activity of 72.32% EHI at 1 mg/mL. The chromatographic fractionation of BcEtOAc-F resulted in three active sub-fractions with higher ovicidal activity: BcC1R4 (99.15% EHI at 1.0 mg/mL); BcC1R5 (92.51% EHI at 0.75 mg/mL); and BcC1R8 (96.8% EHI at 3.0 mg/mL). Chemical analysis of the BcC1R4 fraction allowed the identification of the major active compound, isokaempferide (1, 98.06% EHI at 1 mg/mL). While, 4,5-di-O-acid caffeoylquinic (3; 96.8% EHI at 3 mg/mL) and an inactive flavone (vicenin-2, 2) were identified as the main compounds in BcC1R8. Chemical characterisation of the isolated compounds was performed via spectroscopic (NMR) and spectrometric (UPLC-MS) analyses. Additionally, the environmental and confocal scanning microscopy analyses revealed that isokaempferide was able to cross the eggshell layer without breaking it and attach itself to the embryo, causing its death. The flavonol, isokaempferide, and the hydroxycinamic acid, 4,5-di-O-caffeoylquinic, displayed powerful ovicidal effects, proving to be a potential alternative for the development of a phytodrug for the control of haemonchosis.

Morada Nova sheep breed: Resistant or resilient to Haemonchus contortus infection?

Morada Nova is a Brazilian hair sheep breed that is well adapted to the country's mainly tropical climate and has good potential for meat and leather production. This breed is reported to be resistant to Haemonchus contortus infection, a highly desired characteristic due to the large impact of this parasite on sheep farming. Therefore, the present study aimed to characterize 287 recently weaned Morada Nova lambs and 123 ewes in relation to their resistance against H. contortus. The animals were dewormed and 15 days later artificially infected with 4000 H. contortus L3 (D0). They were individually monitored by periodic assessment of fecal egg count (FEC), packed cell volume (PCV), and live weight (LW). On D42, the sheep were again dewormed and submitted to a new parasitic challenge, following the same scheme. The animals of each category (lambs and ewes) were ranked according to individual mean FEC values, and classified as resistant (R, 20%), intermediate (I, 60%), or susceptible (S, 20%) to H. contortus infection. At weaning, high FEC were observed in all three phenotypes (P > 0.05). After the artificial infections, there was a significant difference (P < 0.05) among the three lamb phenotypes for the mean FEC (R < I < S), PCV (R > I > S), and LW (R = I > S). The infection levels (FEC) were negatively correlated with PCV (r = -0.66; P < 0.001), and LW (r = -0.30; P < 0.001). Despite this, the lambs were resilient, since more than 88% of these animals maintained the PCV above 24%, even when heavily infected. The importance of selective parasite control before weaning to reduce the negative impact on slaughter weight was evidenced, taking into account the high positive correlation between LW at weaning and final LW (r = 0.73; P < 0.001). The ewes, in turn, were strongly resistant to the parasite. Despite highly significant differences (P < 0.001) for mean FEC between phenotypes (R < I < S), 98% of the ewes maintained FEC below 4000 EPG. Their health was not affected, since PCV and LW did not differ between phenotypes, and these parameters were not significantly correlated with FEC (P > 0.05). With the phenotypic characterization performed here, it is possible to introduce procedures for parasite control in Morada Nova flocks, facilitating the target-selective treatment approach. The results of this study can also support improvement of meat production by the Morada Nova breed.

Morada Nova sheep breed: Resistant or resilient to Haemonchus contortus infection?

Morada Nova is a Brazilian hair sheep breed that is well adapted to the country's mainly tropical climate and has good potential for meat and leather production. This breed is reported to be resistant to Haemonchus contortus infection, a highly desired characteristic due to the large impact of this parasite on sheep farming. Therefore, the present study aimed to characterize 287 recently weaned Morada Nova lambs and 123 ewes in relation to their resistance against H. contortus. The animals were dewormed and 15 days later artificially infected with 4000 H. contortus L3 (D0). They were individually monitored by periodic assessment of fecal egg count (FEC), packed cell volume (PCV), and live weight (LW). On D42, the sheep were again dewormed and submitted to a new parasitic challenge, following the same scheme. The animals of each category (lambs and ewes) were ranked according to individual mean FEC values, and classified as resistant (R, 20%), intermediate (I, 60%), or susceptible (S, 20%) to H. contortus infection. At weaning, high FEC were observed in all three phenotypes (P>0.05). After the artificial infections, there was a significant difference (P<0.05) among the three lamb phenotypes for the mean FEC (RI > S), and LW (R=I > S). The infection levels (FEC) were negatively correlated with PCV (r = -0.66; P<0.001), and LW (r = -0.30; P<0.001). Despite this, the lambs were resilient, since more than 88% of these animals maintained the PCV above 24%, even when heavily infected. The importance of selective parasite control before weaning to reduce the negative impact on slaughter weight was evidenced, taking into account the high positive correlation between LW at weaning and final LW (r=0.73; P<0.001). The ewes, in turn, were strongly resistant to the parasite. Despite highly significant differences (P<0.001) for mean FEC between phenotypes (R0.05). With the phenotypic characterization performed here, it is possible to introduce procedures for parasite control in Morada Nova flocks, facilitating the target-selective treatment approach. The results of this study can also support improvement of meat production by the Morada Nova breed.

Systemic oxidative stress in Suffolk and Santa Ines sheep experimentally infected with Haemonchus contortus.

The mechanisms responsible for the imbalance between oxidants and antioxidants in sheep infected with Haemonchus contortus are not well established. This study aimed to prove the hypothesis that oxidative stress occurring during infection by H. contortus varies according to breed, and that the parasite burden correlates with hypoalbuminaemia and anaemia. Thus, after deworming and confirming the absence of infection, two different sheep breeds, Suffolk (n = 15) and Santa Ines (n = 22), were orally inoculated with a single dose of 5,000 L3 of H. contortus. The egg counts per gram of faeces (EPG), packed cell volume (PCV) and concentrations of several plasma markers of oxidative stress (lipid peroxidation, albumin, uric acid, total bilirubin, total antioxidant capacity [TAC], total oxidant concentration [TOC] and the oxidative stress index [OSI]) were quantified before (control group) and during the experimental infection (28, 34 and 42 days post-inoculation). In both breeds, TOC increased at 28 days and TAC increased at 42 days. In Suffolk sheep, there was a positive correlation of EPG with oxidant components (28 days) and a negative correlation of EPG with PCV (42 days). In Santa Ines sheep, there was a positive correlation of EPG with bilirubin (r = 0.492; p = 0.020). H. contortus infection caused oxidative stress, which varied according to the breed. Parasite burden was not associated with hypoalbuminaemia, whereas there was a negative correlation with PCV. This research provides the first evidence that the antioxidant status contributes more to the resilience to H. contortus in Santa Ines sheep compared to Suffolk sheep.

Control of Haemonchus contortus in sheep using basidiocarps of Agaricus blazei Murril.

OBJECTIVE: This study evaluated the effects in vitro and in vivo of Agaricus blazei against Haemonchus contortus in sheep. METHODS: The in vitro efficacy of aqueous extract on egg hatching inhibition (EHI) was investigated and after 72 h incubation with varying concentrations the effects on, blastomeres, embryonated eggs, and first stage larvae (L1) were evaluated. Larval development inhibition (LDI) for dry powder and the aqueous extract were evaluated in fecal cultures of sheep infected with H. contortus. In vivo efficacy was determined by reduction in fecal egg count (FEC). Lambs were treated with powder A. blazei (11.4 g/kg pc) or trichlorfon, or were untreated and the possible toxicity of this fungus was monitored by plasmatic enzyme analysis. RESULTS: Concentrations equal to and higher than 3.62 mg/mL and of aqueous extract were 100% effective in the EHI test. In the LDI test, LC90 was estimated for 5.66 and 106.0 mg/g fecal culture for aqueous extract and powder, respectively. The mean FEC in lambs 14 days post-treatment with A. blazei powder was significantly lower than observed for the negative control, and the serum levels of aspartate transaminase and alanine transaminase were normal. CONCLUSION: The fungi supplementation promotes, respectively, high and moderate anthelmintic efficacy with in vitro and in vivo tests, respectively, suggesting it as an alternative or complementary treatment for haemonchosis in sheep.

Blood parameters of sheep with high infection of Haemonchus contortus and treated with mushroom of the sun (Agaricus blazei) / Parâmetros sanguíneos de ovinos com alta infecção por Haemonchus contortus e tratados com cogumelo do sol (Agaricus blazei)

Blood and parasitological parameters of sheep experimentally infected with Haemonchus contortus and treated with “mushroom of the sun” (Agaricus blazei) were assessed. Lambs infected with the nematode were divided into three groups: treated with basidiocarp powder from the fungus, wormed with trichlorfon, and a control group that did not receive anthelmintic. Split-plot design analysis was performed where the treatments were defined as plots and four periods of collection were defined as subplots. Interaction between the treatments and the collection periods for the fecal egg counts per gram of feces (FEC) was observed. Treatment with “mushroom of the sun” showed anthelmintic efficacies ranging from 28.6 to 54.2%. Similar performances to weight gain were observed among the groups. A significant interaction between treatments and evaluation periods was observed for erythrocyte counts, hematocrit value, and serum concentrations of albumin and urea. The values of the mean corpuscular volume, erythrocyte distribution width, and leukocyte, neutrophil, lymphocyte, monocyte, and eosinophil counts, as well as the mean platelet volume, varied among the collection days. The administration of “mushroom of the sun” significantly reduced the FEC, did not influence on the erythrocyte count and hematocrit value, which remained within normal limits. However it increased the serum concentrations of albumin.(AU)

Avaliou-se os parâmetros sanguíneos e parasitológicos de ovinos infectados experimentalmente com Haemonchus contortus e tratados com “cogumelo do sol” (Agaricus blazei). Cordeiros infectados com o nematódeo foram distribuídos em três grupos: tratados com pó do basidiocarpo do fungo, vermifugados com triclorfon e grupo controle, que não recebeu anti-helmíntico. Utilizou-se delineamento em parcelas subdivididas, sendo os tratamentos as parcelas e quatro períodos de coletas, as subparcelas. Verificou-se interação dos tratamentos e dos períodos de coleta para o número de ovos por grama de fezes (OPG). O tratamento com “cogumelo do sol” apresentou eficácia anti-helmíntica variando de 28,6% a 54,2%, entretanto o desempenho foi semelhante entre os grupos. Verificou-se interação significativa dos tratamentos e os períodos avaliados para as contagens de eritrócitos, o valor do hematócrito e as concentrações séricas de albumina e ureia. Os valores do volume corpuscular médio, da amplitude de distribuição de eritrócitos, as contagens de leucócitos, neutrófilos, linfócitos, monócitos e eosinófilos, bem como o volume plaquetário médio variaram entre os dias de coleta. A administração do “cogumelo do sol” reduziu o OPG, não influenciou a contagem de eritrócitos e o valor do hematócrito, que estiveram dentro dos limites da normalidade, e aumentou significativamente as concentrações séricas de albumina.(AU)

Blood parameters of sheep with high infection of Haemonchus contortus and treated with mushroom of the sun (Agaricus blazei) / Parâmetros sanguíneos de ovinos com alta infecção por Haemonchus contortus e tratados com cogumelo do sol (Agaricus blazei)

Blood and parasitological parameters of sheep experimentally infected with Haemonchus contortus and treated with “mushroom of the sun” (Agaricus blazei) were assessed. Lambs infected with the nematode were divided into three groups: treated with basidiocarp powder from the fungus, wormed with trichlorfon, and a control group that did not receive anthelmintic. Split-plot design analysis was performed where the treatments were defined as plots and four periods of collection were defined as subplots. Interaction between the treatments and the collection periods for the fecal egg counts per gram of feces (FEC) was observed. Treatment with “mushroom of the sun” showed anthelmintic efficacies ranging from 28.6 to 54.2%. Similar performances to weight gain were observed among the groups. A significant interaction between treatments and evaluation periods was observed for erythrocyte counts, hematocrit value, and serum concentrations of albumin and urea. The values of the mean corpuscular volume, erythrocyte distribution width, and leukocyte, neutrophil, lymphocyte, monocyte, and eosinophil counts, as well as the mean platelet volume, varied among the collection days. The administration of “mushroom of the sun” significantly reduced the FEC, did not influence on the erythrocyte count and hematocrit value, which remained within normal limits. However it increased the serum concentrations of albumin.

Avaliou-se os parâmetros sanguíneos e parasitológicos de ovinos infectados experimentalmente com Haemonchus contortus e tratados com “cogumelo do sol” (Agaricus blazei). Cordeiros infectados com o nematódeo foram distribuídos em três grupos: tratados com pó do basidiocarpo do fungo, vermifugados com triclorfon e grupo controle, que não recebeu anti-helmíntico. Utilizou-se delineamento em parcelas subdivididas, sendo os tratamentos as parcelas e quatro períodos de coletas, as subparcelas. Verificou-se interação dos tratamentos e dos períodos de coleta para o número de ovos por grama de fezes (OPG). O tratamento com “cogumelo do sol” apresentou eficácia anti-helmíntica variando de 28,6% a 54,2%, entretanto o desempenho foi semelhante entre os grupos. Verificou-se interação significativa dos tratamentos e os períodos avaliados para as contagens de eritrócitos, o valor do hematócrito e as concentrações séricas de albumina e ureia. Os valores do volume corpuscular médio, da amplitude de distribuição de eritrócitos, as contagens de leucócitos, neutrófilos, linfócitos, monócitos e eosinófilos, bem como o volume plaquetário médio variaram entre os dias de coleta. A administração do “cogumelo do sol” reduziu o OPG, não influenciou a contagem de eritrócitos e o valor do hematócrito, que estiveram dentro dos limites da normalidade, e aumentou significativamente as concentrações séricas de albumina.

Early detection of Haemonchus contortus infection in sheep using three different faecal occult blood tests.

Haemonchus contortus is a blood-sucking parasite causing the presence of faecal occult blood (FOB). The objective was to study three different FOB tests in order to have a new indicator of H. contortus infection in sheep that could be included in the genetic evaluation system as an alternative selection criterion to faecal worm egg count (FEC). A total of 29 Corriedale lambs were experimentally infected with 10.000 larvae of H. contortus. Stool samples were recorded for FEC and FOB tests (Hexagon, Hematest(®) and Multistix(®)), blood for packed cell volume (PCV), haemoglobin, white and red blood cell count (RBC), and FAMACHA(©) for scoring anaemia. At the end of the experiment lambs were slaughtered to worm burden count. Field infection was achieved in 309 Merino lambs under natural parasite challenge. FEC data were normalized through logarithmic transformation (LnFEC). Pearson correlation was estimated to examine the relationship between all traits. The three tests were able to detect the presence of FOB at day 11. FEC, PCV and RBC decreased to sub-normal values from day 18. FAMACHA(©) score 3 was considered to be indicative of anaemia. Most of the correlations were of high magnitude, with the exception of Multistix(®) test that was moderately correlated with haematological parameters, LnFEC and FEC. In field infection, most samples were negative to FOB tests and the correlations were lower than those calculated under experimental infection. In conclusion, FOB tests were able to detect haemonchosis earlier than FEC under high experimental parasite challenge. However, they were not able to detect FOB under natural mixed parasite challenge. FAMACHA(©) and PCV demonstrated to be good indicators of Haemonchosis, having moderate to high correlations with FEC.

Partial protection and abomasal cytokine expression in sheep experimentally infected with Haemonchus contortus and pre-treated with Taenia hydatigena vesicular concentrate.

The abomasal expression of IL-2, IL-4, IL-6, IL-10 and IFNγ in lambs experimentally infected with Haemonchus contortus and its relationship to protection induced by a Taenia hydatigena larvae vesicular concentrate (ThLVC) were evaluated. The lambs that were only infected with H. contortus larvae showed a worm burden greater (p<0.05) than the lambs that received ThLVC prior to infection. Moreover, the lambs that received ThLVC showed a greater (p<0.05) number of blood eosinophils than the lambs that did not receive the ThLVC. In general, the lambs that received ThLVC prior to infection had a greater amount of eosinophils and mast cells and higher in situ expression of IFNγ, IL-2, IL-4, IL-6 and IL-10 in the abomasal wall than the lambs that were infected with H. contortus only or that received ThLVC (p<0.05) only. A higher expression of IL-2 and IFNγ in the submucosa compared to the abomasal mucosa and a higher expression of IL-4 in the abomasal mucosa compared to the submucosa was observed (p<0.05). These results suggest that there is a Th1 type response in the abomasal submucosa and a Th2 type response in in the abomasal mucosa. The amount of eosinophils and mast cells and the in situ expression of IFNγ, IL-2, IL-4 and IL-6 in the abomasal walls were negatively correlated with the worm burden (p<0.05). These results suggest that ThLVC is a non-specific immune stimulator for the abomasal immune response, and it is likely that the protection observed is the result of this effect.

Parasitism level by helminths and weight gain of calves kept in organic and conventional grazing / Grau de parasitismo por helmintos e ganho de peso de bezerros mantidos sob manejo orgânico e convencional

Sustainable production is a principle in which we must meet the needs of the present without compromising the capacity of future generations. Despite the successful development of pesticides against endo and ectoparasites found in domestic ruminants, these parasites are still the major problem of the herbivore production system. The purpose of this study was to know the population of gastrintestinal parasites and their influence on weight gain of calves kept in organic and conventional grazing. Thus, organic and conventional calves were randomly selected in 2008 and 2009. The fecal egg count (FEC) indentified the following genders of helminths: Haemonchus, Trichostrongylus, Oesophagostomum, Cooperia, Strongyloides, Trichuris and oocysts of Eimeria. There was no significant difference (p>0.05) between FEC in organic and conventional animals. Calves younger than 6 months showed significant higher infection (p<0.05) than calves between 7 and 12 months of age. The weight gain observed during the study was of 327g/day and 280g/day for conventional and organic systems animals, respectively. Consequently, the combination of sustainable practices of grazing associated with the selective application of anthelmintics may be a feasible alternative for nematode control in a conventional system and in transition to an organic one.(AU)

A produção sustentável é um princípio em que devemos atender as necessidades do presente sem comprometer a capacidade das gerações futuras. No presente, apesar do sucesso no desenvolvimento de pesticidas endo e ectoparasitas de ruminantes domésticos continuam a representar um dos maiores problemas do sistema produção de herbívoros. O objetivo do estudo foi conhecer as populações de parasitos gastrintestinais e sua influência no ganho de peso em bezerros mantidos em sistemas orgânico e convencional. Para isso foram selecionados randomicamente bezerros orgânicos e convencionais durante os anos de 2008 e 2009. Através da contagem de ovos nas fezes (FEC) identificaram-se os seguintes gêneros de helmintos: Haemonchus, Trichostrongylus, Oesophagostomum, Cooperia, Strongyloides, Trichuris e Oocistos de Eimeria. Não foi observada diferença significativa (p>0,05) entre a FEC nos animais orgânicos e convencionais. Animais com idade inferior a seis meses apresentaram infecção significativamente superior (p<0,05) aos animais com 7-12 meses de idade. O ganho de peso observado durante o estudo foi de 327g/dia e 280g/dia para os animais dos sistemas convencional e orgânico, respectivamente. Assim, a combinação de práticas de manejo sustentáveis associadas a aplicação seletiva de anti-helmíntico pode ser a alternativa viável para o controle de nematóides para sistemas convencionais e de transição para o orgânico.(AU)

Parasitism level by helminths and weight gain of calves kept in organic and conventional grazing / Grau de parasitismo por helmintos e ganho de peso de bezerros mantidos sob manejo orgânico e convencional

Sustainable production is a principle in which we must meet the needs of the present without compromising the capacity of future generations. Despite the successful development of pesticides against endo and ectoparasites found in domestic ruminants, these parasites are still the major problem of the herbivore production system. The purpose of this study was to know the population of gastrintestinal parasites and their influence on weight gain of calves kept in organic and conventional grazing. Thus, organic and conventional calves were randomly selected in 2008 and 2009. The fecal egg count (FEC) indentified the following genders of helminths: Haemonchus, Trichostrongylus, Oesophagostomum, Cooperia, Strongyloides, Trichuris and oocysts of Eimeria. There was no significant difference (p>0.05) between FEC in organic and conventional animals. Calves younger than 6 months showed significant higher infection (p<0.05) than calves between 7 and 12 months of age. The weight gain observed during the study was of 327g/day and 280g/day for conventional and organic systems animals, respectively. Consequently, the combination of sustainable practices of grazing associated with the selective application of anthelmintics may be a feasible alternative for nematode control in a conventional system and in transition to an organic one.

A produção sustentável é um princípio em que devemos atender as necessidades do presente sem comprometer a capacidade das gerações futuras. No presente, apesar do sucesso no desenvolvimento de pesticidas endo e ectoparasitas de ruminantes domésticos continuam a representar um dos maiores problemas do sistema produção de herbívoros. O objetivo do estudo foi conhecer as populações de parasitos gastrintestinais e sua influência no ganho de peso em bezerros mantidos em sistemas orgânico e convencional. Para isso foram selecionados randomicamente bezerros orgânicos e convencionais durante os anos de 2008 e 2009. Através da contagem de ovos nas fezes (FEC) identificaram-se os seguintes gêneros de helmintos: Haemonchus, Trichostrongylus, Oesophagostomum, Cooperia, Strongyloides, Trichuris e Oocistos de Eimeria. Não foi observada diferença significativa (p>0,05) entre a FEC nos animais orgânicos e convencionais. Animais com idade inferior a seis meses apresentaram infecção significativamente superior (p<0,05) aos animais com 7-12 meses de idade. O ganho de peso observado durante o estudo foi de 327g/dia e 280g/dia para os animais dos sistemas convencional e orgânico, respectivamente. Assim, a combinação de práticas de manejo sustentáveis associadas a aplicação seletiva de anti-helmíntico pode ser a alternativa viável para o controle de nematóides para sistemas convencionais e de transição para o orgânico.

Haemonchus contortus-sheep relationship: a review

La hemoncosis, causada por el nematodo del abomaso de rumiantes Haemonchus contortus, constituye una de las enfermedades parasitarias más notables del ganado ovino en todo el mundo. Las infecciones provocan síndromes anémicos y de mala digestión/absorción que pueden causar la muerte en los casos agudos y disminución de la producción en las formas crónicas. Las claves principales para la aparición de esta enfermedad son el comportamiento biológico del helmito, su patogenia, además de la respuesta del hospedador. El conocimiento actualizado de estos aspectos permitirá una mayor eficaciencia de los métodos de diagnóstico y contro del proceso y, como consecuencia, la disminución de los riesgos de aparición de esta enfermedad. La presente revisión analiza y discute algunos aspectos de la relación ganado ovino-H. contortus de interés para disminuir el impacto de esta parasitosis sobre la salud y producción ganaderas.

Haemonchosis, caused by the abomasal nematode Haemonchus contortus, is among the most relevant parasitic diseases of small ruminants all over the world. The infections are responsible for anemic and bad digestion/absorption syndromes causing the death of severely infected animals in acute cases and the reduction of production scores in the chronic forms of the disease. The keys for the appearance of the disease include the biological behavior of the helminth and mechanisms of pathogenesis, besides the host’s response. The updated knowledge of these aspects would result in a higher efficiency of diagnostic and control methods, thus reducing the risks of appearance of the disease. In the present review, several aspects of the sheep - H. contortus relationship are analyzed with the aim of reducing the impact of this parasitosis on livestock health and productivity.