Molecular and Biotechnological Approaches for Diagnosis and Prevention of Coxiella burnetii Infection in Rabbits.

Coxiella burnetii, the Gram-negative bacterium that causes Q fever, is a zoonotic disease that is becoming more well-known as an important reservoir in rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus) [۱,۲]. Rabbits enhance and propagate the infection via urine, feces, milk, and reproductive secretions. This helps spread the disease to people and animals [۳,۴]. Standard serological techniques, including ELISA, complement fixation, and immunofluorescence tests, are constrained by protracted seroconversion, cross-reactivity, and inconsistent sensitivity. These constraints frequently result in underdiagnosis and postponed epidemiological interventions [۵,۶]. Recent advancements in molecular diagnostics, such as PCR assays targeting IS۱۱۱۱ and coml, metagenomic next-generation sequencing (NGS), and CRISPR-Cas-based detection platforms, have improved sensitivity, specificity, and the rapid identification of C. burnetii in both symptomatic and asymptomatic rabbits [۷-۱۰]. Concurrently employed biotechnological approaches, including inactivated phase I vaccinations, recombinant subunit formulations, and integrated vector management, have shown effective in diminishing pathogen shedding and curtailing zoonotic spillover [۱۱-۱۴]. This review critically synthesizes contemporary molecular diagnostic methods and preventative biotechnologies targeting C. burnetii in rabbits, assessing their efficacy, constraints, and translational applicability. Within a One Health paradigm, research goals including creating cross-protective vaccines and portable point-of-care diagnostics are also emphasized [۱۵-۲۰].

کلیدواژه ها:

Coxiella burnetii ، Q fever ، Oryctolagus cuniculus ، molecular diagnostics ، PCR ، zoonotic transmission ، vector control