Files and links (1)
Published (Version of Record)CC BY V4.0, Open Access
Journal article
Morphological characterization, histopathological alteration, and cytokine response of different tissues of Columba livia naturally infected with Haemoproteus columbae
Frontiers in veterinary science, Vol.12
2025
Abstract
Introduction
Haemoproteus columbae is a common haemosporidian worldwide blood parasite affecting domestic pigeons (Columba livia). Therefore, this study aimed to detect the incidence of H. columbae infection in domestic pigeons with morpho-molecular identification.
Methods
In the current study, blood samples were collected from 125 domestic pigeons between 2023 and 2024 and analyzed using both microscopic and molecular techniques. H. columbae positive birds underwent postmortem (PM) and histopathological examinations, as well as cytokine immunological reaction assessments.
Results
It was found that around 8% (10/125) of pigeons were positive for H. columbae infection, and their morphological characteristics were reported. H. columbae induces observable macroscopic and microscopic alterations in the infected tissues, which increases the cytokine immunological reaction in the infected birds. The infected birds suffered from severe histopathological changes in most haemopoietic and parenchymatous organs. The transcript levels of inflammatory markers such as IL-6, IFN-γ, and IL-1β were significantly upregulated in H. columbae-infected birds. Additionally, the H. columbae samples’ mRNA level of the apoptotic Cas-3 indicated apoptotic activity.
Discussion
Hematic parasites can pose a serious health threat to pigeons as they invade red blood cells and internal organs, leading to anemia, weakness, weight loss, and even death in severe cases. Epidemiological studies and surveys are essential for monitoring these hematologic parasites. Furthermore, additional research is recommended to evaluate the efficacy of various herbal extracts in comparison to the most frequently used drugs for managing this issue in affected pigeons.
Details
- Title
- Morphological characterization, histopathological alteration, and cytokine response of different tissues of Columba livia naturally infected with Haemoproteus columbae
- Authors/Creators
- Heba M. SalemAmira M. IbrahimSara S. BarsoumMahmoud A. MahmoudHaleema H. AlbohiriMina A. AlmayoufLayla A. AlmutairiMohammed A. AlqahtaniSultan Mohammed AreshiKhaled A. El-TarabilyMarwa M. Attia
- Publication Details
- Frontiers in veterinary science, Vol.12
- Identifiers
- 991005814534207891
- Copyright
- © 2025 Salem, Ibrahim, Barsoum, Mahmoud, Albohiri, Almayouf, Almutairi, Alqahtani, Areshi, El-Tarabily and Attia.
- Murdoch Affiliation
- Centre for Terrestrial Ecosystem Science and Sustainability
- Language
- English
- Resource Type
- Journal article
Metrics
9 Record Views