Usefulness of Environmental DNA for Surveillance and Control of Schistosomiasis: Detection and Tracking Schistosoma mansoni and Its Intermediate Host Biomphalaria glabrata in Low Endemic Areas of Minas Gerais, Brazil

概要

Schistosomiasis is one of the most important parasite infections around the world with 3 main species of medical importance: Schistosoma haematobium, Schistosoma japonicum and Schistosoma mansoni. In Brazil, schistosomiasis mansoni is endemic in many areas, and uses the snail Biomphalaria glabata as the intermediate host. Ecoepidemiologic approach using the environmental DNA (eDNA) has been increasing over the years, because its high sensitivity and specificity and easiness of sampling. In this way, this study aimed to introduce eDNA detection for B. glabata and S. mansoni in municipalities of Minas Gerais, Brazil. Five cities were selected (Arceburgo, Comercinho, Guaranésia, Perdigão and Simão Pereira), and 18 water sources were used for eDNA detection. Tests in vitro using laboratory strain of B. glabata was performed. eDNA of single snail could detected in water even exposed in natural conditions after 96 hours. For the field samples collected, eDNA of S. mansoni were detected in 10 sites (Arceburgo - Farm; Comercinho - Point 4, 6, 7, 8 and 9; Guaranésia - Ribeirão; Simão Pereira - Paraibuna River - Point 1 and 2 and Perdigão - Lake); and B. glabata could be detected in 3 sites (Arceburgo - Farm; Comercinho - Point 5 and Perdigão - Lake). Parasite and snails eDNA could be detected in field samples showing the usefulness of the designed system for determination of active transmission sites. The application of the technique in schistosomiasis surveillance can be useful in endemic areas, for monitoring and prevention of schistosomiasis transmission.