Study of Anaplasma platys in Dogs from Sicily
Author Information
Author(s): José de la Fuente, Alessandra Torina, Victoria Naranjo, Silviane Nicosia, Angelina Alongi, Francesco La Mantia, Katherine M. Kocan
Primary Institution: Oklahoma State University
Hypothesis
The study aimed to characterize Anaplasma platys strains in dogs from Palermo, Sicily, Italy.
Conclusion
At least three different strains of A. platys were identified in dogs from Sicily, indicating lower genetic diversity compared to other Anaplasma species.
Supporting Evidence
- The prevalence of A. platys in dogs in Sicily was found to be 4%.
- Three different gltA genotypes of A. platys were identified.
- The genetic diversity of A. platys strains may be similar to A. ovis but lower than that of A. marginale and A. phagocytophilum.
Takeaway
The study found that a small number of dogs in Sicily had a specific germ called A. platys, and there are different types of this germ.
Methodology
Blood samples were collected from 344 dogs and analyzed using PCR and sequence analysis of specific genes.
Limitations
The study's findings may be limited by the low prevalence of A. platys and the restricted movement of infected hosts.
Participant Demographics
The study included 344 dogs: 111 pet dogs, 122 pound dogs, and 111 hunting dogs.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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