Molecular Detection of Pathogenic Leptospira sp. in Cetaceans from the Brazilian Coast

Leptospirosis is a zoonosis with ubiquitous distribution caused by spirochetes belonging to the genus Leptospira sp., endemic mainly in tropical and subtropical regions of world capable infecting domestic animals, free-living humans. Although well documented terrestrial animals humans, little information available on its impact marine animals. There are few studies assessing cetaceans’ health status, even scarcer those focused leptospirosis research. In this context, considering One Health approach, present study aimed investigate occurrence pathogenic sp. cetaceans Brazilian coast. Kidneys 142 19 species were collected. DNA was extracted, diagnosis performed LipL32-polymerase chain reaction. Genetic characterization conducted based secY gene sequencing. Pathogenic detected 14.8% (21/142) tested cetaceans, coastal presenting significantly higher frequency (p-value = 0.03) infected individuals (25%, 17/68) than oceanic (7.5%, 4/53). It possible amplify sequence three strains (one for Sotalia guianensis, one Stenella clymene, Pontoporia blainvillei), all them identified as interrogans, high similarity sequences from Icterohaemorrhagiae serogroup. Phylogenetic analysis revealed grouped species-specific unique clusters but very close pinnipeds same area, evidencing presence two distinct haplotypes circulating mammals region. We could demonstrate that can act carriers leptospires. Moreover, proximity anthropogenic areas play an important role leptospirosis’ dynamics transmission context.