Early Neospora caninum infection dynamics in cattle after inoculation at mid-gestation with high (Nc-Spain7)- or low (Nc-Spain1H)-virulence isolates.

Abstract

Early Neospora caninum infection dynamics were investigated in pregnant heifers intravenously inoculated with PBS (G-Control) or 10tachyzoites of high (G-NcSpain7)- or low (G-NcSpain1H)-virulence isolates at 110&#xa0;days of gestation. Serial culling at 10 and 20&#xa0;days post-infection (dpi) was performed. Fever was detected at 1 dpi in both infected groups (P&#x2009;<&#x2009;0.0001), and a second peak was detected at 3&#xa0;dpi only in G-NcSpain7 (P&#x2009;<&#x2009;0.0001). At 10&#xa0;dpi, Nc-Spain7 was detected in placental samples from one animal related to focal necrosis, and Nc-Spain7 transmission was observed, although no foetal lesions were associated with this finding. The presence of Nc-Spain1H in the placenta or foetuses, as well as lesions, were not detected at 10&#xa0;dpi. At 20&#xa0;dpi, G-NcSpain7 animals showed almost 100% positive placental tissues and severe focal necrosis as well as 100% transmission. Remarkably, foetal mortality was detected in two G-NcSpain7 heifers. Only one animal from G-NcSpain1H presented positive placental samples. No foetal mortality was detected, and lesions and parasite transmission to the foetus were not observed in this group. Finally, 100% of G-NcSpain7 heifers at 20&#xa0;dpi presented specific antibodies, while only 60% of G-NcSpain1H animals presented specific antibodies at 20&#xa0;dpi. In addition, earlier seroconversion in G-Nc-Spain7 was observed. In conclusion, tachyzoites from Nc-Spain7 reached the placenta earlier and multiplied, leading to lesion development, transmission to the foetus and foetal mortality, whereas Nc-Spain1H showed delayed infection of the placenta and no lesional development or transmission during early infection.