Publications by authors named "Alexandre Seiji Maekawa"
Braz J Infect Dis
November 2024
Article Synopsis
- Specific Pathogen-Free (SPF) animals, like the BALB/c mice, are essential for reliable research as they are bred to be free from harmful pathogens.
- This study aimed to explore the natural infection of BALB/c mice by Bartonella henselae, a widespread bacterium, by analyzing various tissues for the presence of its DNA.
- All tested mice showed positive results for B. henselae DNA, indicating that this bacterium can infect laboratory mice, which may compromise research outcomes if not addressed.
Braz J Infect Dis
October 2024
Article Synopsis
- Bartonelloses are serious diseases caused by bacteria from the genus Bartonella, often transmitted through bites from fleas, lice, mosquitoes, and ticks, and can lead to conditions like endocarditis.
- A study conducted in Seabra, Brazil, tested 81 triatomines (a type of bug) for the presence of Bartonella henselae DNA using various PCR techniques, aiming to assess their potential as vectors.
- Results showed that 28.39% of the triatomines tested positive for B. henselae, while none were found to carry Trypanosoma cruzi, highlighting a significant link between these bugs and the bacteria, warranting further research on their role as disease vectors.
