Jointly conducted by IRD and INSERM, this research highlights the genetic diversity of parasites in non-human primates.
Constant Sirima, researcher at TransVIHMI (Institut de Recherche pour le Développement).
Thesis defended in 2021 at the doctoral school École doctorale Sciences Chimiques et Biologiques pour la Santé (Montpellier ; 1992-....).
This research is the result of an international co-supervision between several partner institutions.
Referenced in the ABES/STAR network, this thesis meets the rigorous criteria of French higher education.
The epidemiology of parasitic infections in non-human primates (NHP) is an increasing concern, especially in Africa, where these animals can be reservoirs of zoonotic pathogens. Indeed, NHPs, such as gorillas and chimpanzees, share habitats with human populations, which increases the risk of disease transmission. Constant Sirima's thesis, conducted in collaboration with the Institut de Recherche pour le Développement and INSERM, explores the genetic diversity of geohelminths and filariae of the genus Mansonella sp. in Cameroon and Gabon. This research revealed significant findings, notably the first detection of Mansonella sp. DNA in NHP feces, which could transform our approach to the diagnosis and management of parasitic infections.
The co-infections observed in gorillas with other parasites such as Oesophagostomum sp. and Necator sp. highlight the complexity of parasitic interactions in these populations. These co-infections are not merely an isolated phenomenon; they illustrate a dynamic parasitic ecosystem where multiple pathogens can interact, thereby affecting host health. For example, a co-infection may exacerbate clinical symptoms in a host, making treatment more difficult and increasing the risk of transmission to humans. This genetic diversity of parasites could have important implications for public health, particularly in areas where humans and NHPs coexist.
Traditional diagnostic methods, based on microscopic observation of blood samples, may not be sufficient to capture the extent of these infections. Indeed, these techniques may miss asymptomatic infections or less common forms of parasites, which can lead to an underestimation of infection prevalence. It is therefore imperative to adopt advanced sequencing techniques to better understand the dynamics of parasitic infections. For example, next-generation sequencing (NGS) allows for the detection of parasite species that were not previously identified, providing a more comprehensive overview of parasitic biodiversity. This could also pave the way for more effective prevention and control strategies, taking into account the genetic specifics of the parasites.
Policymakers must consider these findings to develop appropriate public health policies that integrate the monitoring of infections in NHPs and the associated zoonotic risks. The establishment of epidemiological surveillance programs in at-risk areas could enable the rapid detection of new infections and intervention before they spread. Furthermore, educating local communities about the risks of zoonotic transmission and good hygiene practices is essential to reduce the risk of infection.
In summary, this research highlights the need for a multidisciplinary approach to address the challenges posed by parasitic infections, integrating biology, epidemiology, and public health. The implications of these findings are vast and require particular attention from health authorities and researchers. In West Africa, where biodiversity is rich but threatened, it is crucial to develop conservation strategies that take into account the interactions between wild and domestic species. This includes the protection of natural habitats of NHPs, which are essential not only for their survival but also for the health of ecosystems as a whole.
Thus, research on parasitic infections in NHPs should not be viewed as a mere academic study, but as a public health imperative. The results of this thesis could serve as a basis for future research initiatives and international collaborations aimed at better understanding and managing health risks related to zoonoses in Africa. Ultimately, the health of NHPs and that of humans are inextricably linked, and it is time to act accordingly.
Access the full study
Sources and Access
Constant Sirima. Epidémiologie et diversité génétique des géohelminthes et des filaires du genre Mansonella sp. à l’interface homme-primates non-humains au Cameroun et au Gabon. Médecine humaine et pathologie. Université Montpellier, 2021. Français. ⟨NNT : 2021MONTT030⟩. ⟨tel-03419569⟩