Biomolecular survey on the main infectious causes of abortion in sheep in the Italian regions of Latium and Tuscany

Abstract

Background: Ruminants play an important role in economic sustenance in many developing countries. Abortion is one of the most important causes of economic losses in sheep livestock and, for this reason, it is very important to know, at an early stage, which pathogens caused abortion. Aim: The aim of the study is to obtain data about the distribution of abortifacient pathogens in the Italian regions of Latium and Tuscany, the awareness of the distribution of infectious agents causing abortion could allow the development of an appropriate vaccination and prophylaxis plan, in order to avoid major economic losses. Methods: 388 abortion were collected during 2015-2018 period. Organs, tissues and swabs were subjected to DNA extraction and then analysed with commercial q-PCR kits for the detection of the most common abortion pathogens circulating in these geographical areas. Results: The positivity in 148 abortion was 56% for Chlamydia abortus, 14% for Coxiella burnetii, 16% for Salmonella spp, 12% for Toxoplasma gondii and 2% for Neospora caninum. Interesting results were obtained for cases of abortions with co-infection of abortion pathogens. Conclusion: Diagnosing the cause of abortion remains a multifaceted process that may also include non-infectious factors such as deficiencies and toxicities. Further research is needed also to assess the role of low pathogen concentrations and co-infections in abortions of sheep.