Theilera in Oman: molecular epidemiology and disease

Background: Theileriosis is a tick-borne disease caused by protozoan parasites of the genus Theileria and is transmitted by ticks of several different genera. The pathogenic parasite species cause severe morbidity and high rates of mortality and economic losses, as well as reduced production in recovered animals. In Oman, theileriosis is a major constraint on livestock production, with over 2 million cattle, sheep and goats at high risk. The proposed project, is therefore, addressing a disease problem that is of high socio-economic importance in Oman. Aims: The overall objective of the proposal is to understand in depth the spatial structure of Thieleria species, and investigate the dynamics of the most pathogenic species within individual animals to elucidate disease pattern, transmission dynamics and unique features seen among parasites in Oman. In particular, the project aims to elaborate the genetic structure of Theileria parasites in different sites in Oman and within farms in the same region. Approach: In this proposal, we aim to conduct the first extensive molecular survey to map the risks of theileriosis in climatically distinct areas in Oman, and focus on one site to investigate persistence and transmission dynamics of the parasites. The project will use molecular tools to identify, and estimate the prevalence, of Theileria species in animals and the tick vectors in different sites in Oman, and test the impact of molecular diagnostics on management of the disease. In addition, we will analyse microsatellites of the common Theileria species in Oman and examine their genetic structure Expected outcomes: The proposed work should show whether the local Theileria in Oman is similar or if it has some novel genetic characteristics compared those seen in other parts of the globe. Analysis of polymorphic markers of the most common species will test if they form a discrete interbreeding population, or whether there is gene flow between parasites in different sites in Oman. Such information will lead to development of novel control strategies. For example, if just distinct lineages are present at each region, tailored control programs can focus on each site independently.