REAL-TIME PCR DETECTION OF ANAPLASMA SPP. IN DROMEDARY CAMELS IN QATAR

Abstract

In recent years, Qatar’s population has grown quickly, which has led to a rise in camels (Camelus dromedarius, one-humped). This increased the risk of infection. Six species of bacteria of the genus Anaplasma are responsible for the tick- borne disease anaplasmosis, which affects people and livestock. The most significant species for human and veterinary health are Anaplasma marginale and Anaplasma phagocytophilum. The study aimed to detect Anaplasma spp in camel blood samples, utilizing RT-PCR analysis with genetic PCR solution kits [GPS]. A total of 800 camel blood samples collected in an aseptic condition from the jugular vein in 5ml EDTA tubes were used for bacterial DNA isolation. The thermal profile was set up with initial denaturation at 95°C for 1 min, denaturation at 95°C for 15 s of 40 cycles, and extension at 60°C for 60 s. The amplification curve shows the absolute quantification. A mean CT value of 28.5 was considered positive, indicating the presence of Anaplasma spp. This demonstrates the widespread occurrence of anaplasmosis in the region and poses a risk to public health as well as the economy. To maximize future strategic control programs and stop expansion to nearby nations, monitoring, species and subspecies identification, and control measure implementation are crucial tools.