Abstract

Topic: Physiology, diseases and genetics

The development of a serological assay for the detection of antibodies against the arterial worm (Elaeophora schneideri) in moose (Alces alces)

Jessie Erin Richards¹, Richard W. Gerhold², Stephen A. Kania², Megan Miller²

College of Veterinary Medicine, the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Tennessee, USA
The University of Tennessee, College of Veterinary Medicine, Knoxville, Tennessee, USA

Background: The arterial worm, Elaeohpora schneideri, is a parasitic nematode of wild cervids that has led to significant morbidity and mortality in North American moose (Alces alces). The definitive host, mule deer (Odocoileus hemionus) tolerate the parasite with little pathology. However, aberrant hosts such as moose experience a variety of disease presentations due to the aberrant migration of the adult worms and microfilaria within tissues. The arterial worm can cause significant disease, including tissue sloughing due to ischemic necrosis, thromboembolic disease, and neurologic pathology. The arterial worm, brain worm (Parelaphostrongylus tenuis), and winter tick (Dermacentor albipictus), have been implicated in the declining population of Minnesota moose. However, these parasites and other co-morbidities may have overlapping clinical signs, disease presentations, and histological findings. A defined causative agent is often unclear, which hinders effective disease and population management. Changes in climate, habitat, intermediate host populations, and interactions with other ungulate species are likely behind the increased prevalence of these parasitic diseases. Unfortunately, the only means of definitive diagnosis of the arterial worm in moose is recovery and examination of the worms during necropsy. Objective: We aim to develop a sensitive and specific serological assay for this parasite to monitor the exposure and infection in wild moose populations in antemortem and postmortem animals. Methods: We performed affinity purification on extracted E. schneideri proteins to isolate those that bind to known infected moose sera antibodies. Using liquid chromatography and mass spectrometry the disparate amino acid sequences of these proteins were referenced to an assembled transcriptome for the identification of immunogenic antigens. These antigens and their epitopes were then further investigated as potential candidates for use in an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) for the detection of circulating antibodies against E. schneideri. Results and Future Research: As to date, several peptides have been identified as candidates for development into a serological assay to detect circulating anti-E. scheideri antibodies in moose sera. The creation of a sensitive and specific serological assay would allow for accurate monitoring of the parasite in wild cervid populations, better informed wildlife management decisions, and more effective disease control.