Detection of Bartonella henselae DNA in Kissing Bugs
Author Information
Author(s): dos Santos Luciene Silva, Oliveira Jader, Mendonça Vagner José, Rosa João Aristeu, Maekawa Alexandre Seiji, Lilioso Maurício, da Silva Dayane Pires, Almeida Carlos Eduardo, Velho Paulo Eduardo Neves, Drummond Marina Rovani
Primary Institution: Universidade de Campinas (UNICAMP)
Hypothesis
The study aimed to evaluate the occurrence of Bartonella sp. DNA in Triatoma sordida collected in peridomiciliary environments.
Conclusion
The study found a high prevalence of Bartonella henselae DNA in kissing bugs collected in peridomiciliary areas of Seabra, Bahia.
Supporting Evidence
- 23 out of 81 triatomines tested positive for B. henselae DNA.
- No samples tested positive for T. cruzi.
- High prevalence of B. henselae DNA indicates a close relationship between these insects and the bacteria.
Takeaway
Researchers found a lot of bacteria called Bartonella in bugs that live near people's homes, which could be important for understanding how diseases spread.
Methodology
The study used nested PCR and real-time PCR to detect Bartonella henselae DNA in triatomines collected in the field.
Limitations
The study only detected DNA of the pathogens and did not confirm their viability.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website