The development of L. major, L. donovani and L. martiniquensis, Leishmania currently emerging in Europe, in the sand fly species Phlebotomus perniciosus and P. tobbi.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Several new species of Leishmania have recently emerged in Europe, probably as the result of global changes and increased human migration from endemic areas. In this study, we tested whether two sand fly species, the Western Mediterranean Phlebotomus perniciosus and the Eastern Mediterranean P. tobbi, are competent vectors of L. donovani, L. major and L. martiniquensis.

Methodology/principal findings

Sand flies were infected through the chick skin membrane using Leishmania species and strains of various geographical origins. Leishmania infections were evaluated by light microscopy and qPCR, and the representation of morphological forms was assessed from Giemsa-stained gut smears. Neither P. perniciosus nor P. tobbi supported the development of L. martiniquensis, b

SUBMITTER: Sadlova J 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11508123 | biostudies-literature | 2024 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature