Can host genetics transform the sustainable control of tropical theileriosis? Insights from the Tick-Theileria interface.

Recent advancements in phytotherapeutics for controlling babesiosis and theileriosis

From Benign Parasite to Emerging Pathogen: A Review of Theileria orientalis in Ruminants

Simple Summary Theileria orientalis is a tick-transmitted parasite that infects cattle worldwide and was long considered harmless. However, in recent decades, severe outbreaks causing anaemia, reproductive losses, and deaths have been reported in several countries, drawing increasing attention from the veterinary and scientific communities. Disease severity depends largely on the parasite genetic type, with the Ikeda and Chitose genotypes being the most dangerous. Diagnosis can be challenging, particularly in animals that carry the parasite without showing clinical signs. Treatment options remain limited, and no vaccine is currently available. Based on a comprehensive search of the available scientific literature, this narrative review brings together current knowledge on how this parasite is classified, how it spreads, how it causes disease and how infections can be managed. It also highlights the areas where research is still lacking, including a better understanding of which tick species can transmit the parasite and the development of effective vaccines. As tick distributions continue to expand due to climate change, understanding and controlling this infection are becoming increasingly important.

Host and Pathogen Genetic Determinants of Brucellosis in Veterinary–One Health Interface: A Review

Simple Summary Brucellosis imposes heavy economic burdens on livestock and poses a persistent zoonotic threat. Although infection rarely causes death, it commonly triggers abortion and stillbirth; however, the genomic and immunological drivers of this variable clinical outcome are largely unknown. This review brings together scattered findings from genetics, genomics, and transcriptomics to explain how both the animal host and the bacterium shape disease outcome. We highlight practical advances most relevant to veterinary practice: genetic markers that may contribute to breeding programs after independent validation to produce naturally resistant cattle, goats, sheep, and buffalo, and gene-expression signatures that may sharpen diagnosis and disease staging. We also clarify why antimicrobial resistance in Brucella may involve regulatory, metabolic, and chromosomal mechanisms that are not fully captured by classical acquired resistance-gene databases. By identifying where current evidence is strong, weak, or missing, this work offers researchers and practitioners key research priorities for advancing genetics-informed disease control, improving animal welfare, and reducing zoonotic transmission.

Allelic Survey and Population Genomics in a Hotspot of Diflubenzuron Resistance in the Mosquito Culex pipiens

Simple Summary The mosquito Culex pipiens is a primary disease vector worldwide, and chemical insecticides have been the most widely employed control tool. Recently, insecticide resistance to diflubenzuron, a larvicide commonly used in mosquito control, has been documented in Cx. pipiens populations from the Emilia-Romagna region, Italy. In this study, we furnished an updated picture of the distribution and frequency of resistance-associated alleles and, by exploiting population genomics, we investigated the population structure across the region. Our results showed that diflubenzuron-resistance-associated alleles are still present in Emilia-Romagna and that their relative frequency is higher in central-eastern than in western provinces. Furthermore, they revealed a highly homogeneous gene pool across the region, posing the risk of the spread of resistance alleles. Overall, this study highlights the importance of continuously monitoring Cx. pipiens populations and, from an applied perspective, it provides relevant information to plan effective control programs.

Eimeria in chickens: Recent advances in host-pathogen interactions, molecular insights, and control strategies.

This review systematically synthesizes key advances over the past decade concerning host-Eimeria interactions, molecular regulatory mechanisms, and novel control strategies, while contextualizing these findings with earlier seminal discoveries.

Anthelmintic resistance in gastrointestinal nematodes of small ruminants: current status, molecular mechanisms, and sustainable control strategies.

Gastrointestinal nematode (GIN) infections represent one of the most significant constraints to the health and productivity of small ruminants worldwide, leading to substantial economic losses and animal welfare concerns. Control of these parasites has historically relied on the extensive use of anthelmintic drugs; however, the rapid emergence and global spread of anthelmintic resistance (AR) have compromised their effectiveness. Resistance is now reported across all major classes of anthelmintics and is particularly prevalent in key species such as Haemonchus contortus. The development of AR is driven by complex mechanisms, including genetic mutations in drug target genes, enhanced drug efflux mediated by transport proteins, alterations in receptor function, and polygenic adaptations. Accurate detection of resistance remains challenging, with conventional methods such as fecal egg count reduction tests and in vitro assays offering limited sensitivity, while molecular diagnostics provide improved specificity but remain constrained by technical and economic factors. Sustainable control of GIN infections requires a shift toward integrated parasite management strategies. Approaches such as targeted selective treatment, maintenance of refugia, improved nutrition, genetic selection for host resistance, and alternative control methods including phytotherapy and biological control have shown promise in reducing reliance on anthelmintics. In conclusion, a multidisciplinary and sustainable approach is essential to mitigate the impact of AR and ensure long-term effectiveness of parasite control strategies in small ruminant production systems.