Investigation of Anti-Toxoplasma gondii Antibodies and Molecular Analysis in Nonhuman Primates Under Human Care in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: This study aimed to conduct a serological and molecular survey of Toxoplasma gondii in nonhuman primates under human care in the state of Rio de Janeiro. MATERIALS AND METHODS: MAT and qPCR were performed on 199 serum and blood samples collected from animals at the following locations: BioParque Zoo, Volta Redonda Municipal Zoo, Wildlife Rehabilitation Center, Laboratory Animal Facility of the Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, and the Rio de Janeiro Primatology Center. Risk factors for T. gondii infection were also assessed. RESULTS: qPCR analysis revealed DNA amplification of T. gondii in one animal of the species Alouatta caraya. MAT analysis showed 100% seropositivity among Old World primates and 42.62% among New World primates. CONCLUSION: At locations where raw meat is included in the diet and water is unfiltered, animals were found to be 10.88 times more likely to test seropositive.