Molecular detection and characterization of prevailing Theileria equi genotype in equine from northern India.

This research article discusses a study conducted to detect and classify the prevailing Theileria equi genotype in horses from Northern India. The study uses established methods such as microscopy and PCR, along with genotyping and phylogenetic analysis to identify and characterize the specific T.equi genotype prevalent in these horses.

Study Methodology

• Blood samples were collected from a total of 202 horses for the purpose of this research.
• These samples were subjected to two primary testing methods – Microscopy and Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR), in order to detect traces of Theileria equi, a harmful parasite that causes tick-borne diseases in horses.
• A universal screening primer pair was first employed to amplify the DNA of both T. equi, as well as Babesia caballi – another parasite that affects horses, and is related to T. equi.
• Following the initial step, additional primer pairs were utilized for the detection of specific species, resulting in the amplification of a 435 bp section that is specific to T. equi.

Results and Discussion

• The detection rate of T. equi was found to be 9.9% and 20.79% for microscopy and PCR methods respectively.
• Positive samples that were identified through the PCR method were sequenced and submitted to the National Center for Biotechnology Information – NCBI (with the specific numbers attached).
• The genotypes of these isolates were studied and compared with similar genotypes from around the world using Genetool and MEGA X software, showing high levels of homology or similarity.
• All of the T. equi isolated from horses in this study were found to belong to genotype A.
• The EMA-1 gene of five isolates was also characterized and showed similar results, indicating a limited level of genetic diversity among the populations of T. equi.
• Genotypes B and E, as well as C and D, displayed lower levels of evolutionary divergence or genetic differences when compared to the other genotypes.

Conclusions and Impacts

• The researchers found a significant statistical association between T. equi infection and the presence of ticks, indicating that ticks are a major carrier of this parasite and contribute to its spread among horse populations.
• The results of this research contribute to the literature on genotyping of T. equi in India, and offers valuable insights for veterinary scientists and animal health professionals in monitoring and controlling these infections.