Detection of new Babesia microti-like parasites in a rhesus monkey (Macaca mulatta) with a suppressed Plasmodium cynomolgi infection

Am J Trop Med Hyg. 2008 Apr;78(4):643-5.

Abstract

A new type of piroplasm, phylogenetically closest to Babesia microti-like parasites previously detected in Eurasian red squirrels (Sciurus vulgaris orientis), was identified in a rhesus monkey (Macaca mulatta) imported from China. After challenge with Plasmodium cynomolgi M strain blood-stage parasites, the rhesus monkey repeatedly showed markedly reduced levels of Plasmodium parasitemia when compared with animals not infected with this organism.

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Babesia microti / classification
  • Babesia microti / genetics
  • Babesia microti / isolation & purification*
  • Babesiosis / complications
  • Babesiosis / diagnosis*
  • Macaca mulatta
  • Malaria / complications*
  • Phylogeny
  • Plasmodium cynomolgi