Project leader: Aleksandra Uzelac

Project collaborators:

Katarina Breka, Jelena Karanović, Nikola Betić, Milica Kuručki, Tijana Kukurić

Project number: 10841

Duration of the project: 2024-2026

Leading Institution:

Institute for Medical Research, University of Belgrade

COLLABORATING INSTITUTIONS:
Faculty of Biology, University of Belgrade; Institute of Molecular Genetics and Genetic Engineering, University of Belgrade; Institute of Meat Hygiene and Technology; Faculty of Agriculture, University of Novi Sad

Description of the project:

Analysis of the population genetics of Echinococcus is an ongoing effort in some parts of Europe, while the Balkans represent a significant knowledge gap. This project proposes to comprehensively survey the entire transmission cycle consisting of intermediate and definitive animal hosts and the environment using sample processing and analytical methods which have been standardized, validated and harmonized at the EU level to obtain high quality population genetics data via mitochondrial gene (cox1 and nad1) sequencing and characterization of the EmsB microsatellite from single eggs, larvae and adults. Specifically, this approach allows for the survey of as of yet underexplored reservoirs with a potentially high transmission capacity to humans. The population genetics data along with GPS coordinates of identified infected hosts will be systematized and graphically displayed through an interactive bioinformatics database, WormProfiler, to help identify transmission foci and ultimately model transmission dynamics. WormProfiler’s user interface will be specifically tailored to veterinarians and physicians, who are key stakeholders for transmission prevention, in order to facilitate education of the public and raise awareness of echinococcosis. Ultimately, the project’s goal is to create a software supported framework for systematic surveillance of Echinococcus to aid in the development of targeted transmission control actions to reduce echinococcosis case burden.