ORIGINAL RESEARCH
Molecular Identification and Genetic
Characterization of Trypanosoma Evansi
from Cattle in Makkah, Saudi Arabia
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Department of Biology, College of Science, University of Jeddah, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
Submission date: 2024-03-18
Final revision date: 2024-05-11
Acceptance date: 2024-05-27
Online publication date: 2024-09-09
Corresponding author
Muslimah N. Alsulami
Department of Biology, College of Science, University of Jeddah, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
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ABSTRACT
Surra is an infectious disease caused by Trypanosoma evansi (T. evansi), which is spread
in developing countries. This study aimed to estimate the prevalence and genetic characterization
of T. evansi in cattle in Makkah, Saudi Arabia. Blood samples from 150 cattle were collected and
examined by a blood smear and PCR targeting the RoTat 1.2VSG gene. The findings revealed that the
prevalence of T. evansi varied depending on the detection test, ranging from 20.7% to 25.3% by blood
smear examination and PCR. RoTat 1.2VSG sequences analysis of two T. evansi isolates revealed little
difference compared to similar sequences in the database. The phylogenetic tree revealed that local
T. evansi isolates in this study were clustered with other T. evansi sequences from Egypt, India, Nigeria,
Kenya, and Pakistan. The sequences in the study and the Egyptian sequence (MG674485, camel strain)
were grouped into a single clade with little genetic variation. In conclusion, the results of this study
urge for the introduction and adoption of appropriate control strategies to reduce the effect of T. evansi
infection on cattle production in Saudi Arabia.