The possible role of Stomoxys calcitrans in equine sarcoid transmission. (January 2018)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Haspeslagh, M.; Vlaminck, L.; Martens, A.
• Is Part Of: Veterinary journal. Volume 231(2018)
• Page Start: 8
• Page End: 12
• Publication Date: 2018-01
• Subjects: Bovine papillomavirus -- Equine sarcoid -- Stomoxys calcitrans -- Transmission -- Vector; Veterinary medicine -- Periodicals; 636
• DOI: 10.1016/j.tvjl.2017.11.009
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1090-0233

Abstract

Highlights: A total of 240 flies were live caught and exposed to equine sarcoid or bovine papilloma tissue. Bovine papillomavirus (BPV) DNA load was determined by quantitative PCR on a daily basis until 7 days after exposure. Viral load increased significantly after exposure to both tissue types. Viral loads were higher and persisted longer after exposure to bovine papilloma compared to equine sarcoid. Flies could serve as a vector for BPV transmission, but only for a limited time. Abstract: The association between bovine papillomavirus (BPV) and equine sarcoids is well established, but it is unclear how the virus spreads. Although evidence in support of viral spread through direct animal contact exists, this does not explain sarcoid development in isolated equids. BPV DNA has been detected in flies, which could indicate that these insects serve as a vector. This study aimed to investigate whether BPV-negative stable flies ( Stomoxys calcitrans ) become positive for BPV DNA after exposure to equine sarcoid or bovine papilloma tissue under experimental conditions and, if so, for how long. A total of 420 stable flies were caught alive and exposed to BPV positive equine sarcoid or bovine papilloma tissue. During the following week, dead flies were collected daily and BPV loads were determined by quantitative PCR. There was a significant rise in BPV load after tissue exposure both in sarcoid and papilloma exposed flies, but the viral load was higher and remained high for a longer time after exposure to papilloma tissue compared to sarcoid tissue. Within days, viral loads decreased again and became indifferent from loads before exposure. The results of these experiments indicate that BPV transmission by S. calcitrans seems possible and is more likely to occur after contact with bovine papillomas than with equine sarcoids. Transmission seems only possible shortly after tissue exposure. Further research could include experimental induction of sarcoids with BPV positive stable flies, or a repeat of the experiment with micro-dissection prior to PCR.