Single Tsetse Fly Bite Transmits Trypanosoma brucei rhodesiense in Vervet Monkeys
Author Information
Author(s): Thuita John K., Kagira John M., Mwangangi David, Matovu Enock, Turner C. M. R., Masiga Daniel
Primary Institution: Trypanosomiasis Research Centre, Kikuyu, Kenya
Hypothesis
Can a single tsetse fly bite transmit Trypanosoma brucei rhodesiense in vervet monkeys, mimicking human African trypanosomiasis?
Conclusion
The study demonstrates that a single tsetse fly bite can effectively transmit Trypanosoma brucei rhodesiense in vervet monkeys, accurately mimicking human sleeping sickness.
Supporting Evidence
- All nine monkeys were successfully infected with a median pre-patent period of 4 days.
- Chancres developed in 55.6% of monkeys within 4 to 8 days post infection.
- Parasites were first detected in the cerebrospinal fluid after a median of 16 days.
- Clinical symptoms included anaemia and thrombocytopaenia.
- Leucocytosis was observed in 33% of monkeys at terminal stages.
Takeaway
This study shows that vervet monkeys can get sick from a single bite of an infected tsetse fly, just like humans can get sleeping sickness.
Methodology
Nine vervet monkeys were infected with T. b. rhodesiense through a single bite from an infected tsetse fly, and various clinical and haematological parameters were monitored.
Potential Biases
Potential bias in strain selection and individual monkey responses to infection.
Limitations
The study was limited to a small sample size and focused on specific strains of T. b. rhodesiense.
Participant Demographics
Nine vervet monkeys (Chlorocebus aethiops) of both sexes, weighing between 2.7 and 5.2 kg.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.0001
Confidence Interval
95% CI = 5.5–6.6
Statistical Significance
p<0.0001
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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