A real-time genome sequencing approach to the role of wildlife in transmission of animal trypanosomiasis    

Animal African trypanosomiasis (AAT) is a fatal livestock disease caused by the single-celled blood parasites trypanosomes and it is spread by bites from flies. AAT reduces livestock productivity, which constrains food production and socio-economic development. African pastoralists limit its burden with trypanocidal drugs, and by minimising exposure to infection. Understanding disease transmission is vital to informing fly control, judicious use of drugs and pasture management. 

I will examine the role of wild animals as a source of livestock infection by collecting trypanosomes from wildlife, livestock and flies around the Shimba Hills National Park in Kenya. I will identify genetic differences in these samples using a portable DNA sequencing device and test the idea that trypanosomes originating from wild animals in the park sustain infection in livestock. 

This project will show how real-time DNA sequencing can provide more precise information on AAT transmission than current approaches, enabling more effective disease management.