Dermanyssus gallinae: the long journey of the poultry red mite to become a vector

Abstract

The possibility that Dermanyssus gallinae, the poultry red mite, could act as a vector of infectious disease-causing pathogens has always intrigued researchers and worried commercial chicken farmers, as has its ubiquitous distribution. For decades, studies have been carried out which suggest that there is an association between a wide range of pathogens and D. gallinae, with the transmission of some of these pathogens mediated by D. gallinae as vector. The latter include the avian pathogenic Escherichia coli (APEC), Salmonella enterica serovars Enteritidis and Gallinarum and influenza virus. Several approaches have been adopted to investigate the relationship between D. gallinae and pathogens. In this comprehensive review, we critically describe available strategies and methods currently available for conducting trials, as well as outcomes, analyzing their possible strengths and weaknesses, with the aim to provide researchers with useful tools for correctly approach the study of the vectorial role of D. gallinae. Graphical Abstract

Screening of avian pathogens and genetic analysis of several mitochondrial genes in Dermanyssus gallinae populations in Türkiye</p >

“…Dermanyssus gallinae is able to carry several microorganisms including disease-causing pathogens and commensals or symbiotic bacteria (Schiavone et al 2022;Koç & Nalbantoğlu 2023). Due to the blood-feeding habits, the vector potential of PRMs is also an important problem resulting in additional economic losses on hens (Moro et al 2009;Schiavone et al 2022).…”

“…Dermanyssus gallinae is able to carry several microorganisms including disease-causing pathogens and commensals or symbiotic bacteria (Schiavone et al 2022;Koç & Nalbantoğlu 2023). Due to the blood-feeding habits, the vector potential of PRMs is also an important problem resulting in additional economic losses on hens (Moro et al 2009;Schiavone et al 2022). Several studies have been conducted to date on the transmission of avian pathogens via PRMs, classifying them based on the severity of diseases -mild, moderate, or severe-and even identifying zoonoses.…”

Suppressive modulation of host immune responses by Dermanyssus gallinae infestation

“…Chickens infested by PRMs exhibit various health problems, including anemia, hyposthenia, and lower feed conversion, which results in reduced egg production and significant economic losses ( van Emous, 2005 ; Mul et al, 2009 ; Sparagano et al, 2009 ). Moreover, PRM is suggested to be a vector of pathogens such as the avian influenza virus, Salmonella Gallinarum, and Erysipelothrix rhusiopathiae ( Eriksson et al, 2009 ; Sommer et al, 2016 ; Pugliese et al, 2019 ; Schiavone et al, 2022 ). Control of PRMs with chemical acaricides is usually insufficient because PRMs can develop resistance to acaricides ( Beugnet et al, 1979 ; Zeman and Zelezný, 1985 ; Marangi et al, 2009 ).…”

Short-time cold atmospheric pressure plasma exposure can kill all life stages of the poultry red mite, Dermanyssus gallinae, under laboratory conditions

“…The most direct level of impact is an overall reduced health and well-being of infested animals, e.g., due to skin irritation, restlessness in the barn, weight loss, anaemia, and, in worst cases, sudden death (Mul 2013 ; Temple et al 2020 ; Sparagano et al 2014 ) also described PRM infestations to be associated with the development of feather pecking and even cannibalism in laying hens. Furthermore, PRM plays a significant role as a vector for various pathogens such as Salmonella species and avian influenza virus (Tomley and Sparagano 2018 ; Schiavone et al 2022 ).…”