VNTR analysis demonstrates new patterns and high genetic diversity of Leptospira sp. of animal origin in Brazil.

Leptospirosis is a worldwide zoonosis with a broad host range, including humans and domestic and wild animals. The taxonomic classification of Leptospira species is complex. More recently, several molecular tools have been employed in the attempt to group the different strains of leptospires. The objective of this study was the genetic characterization of Brazilian Leptospira sp. isolates obtained from wild and domestic animals. The genotyping of the strains was performed by the variable-number tandem repeats (VNTR) technique, using the Leptospira interrogans/Leptospira kirschneri and Leptospira santarosai protocols. A total of 27 novel strains were characterized and 22 novel VNTR patterns were described. This study suggests a high genetic diversity among the strains obtained from different wild and domestic animals, and reinforces the need for a broad approach aligned to the One Health concept for leptospirosis. SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF THE STUDY: Animal leptospirosis is an important cause of reproductive failure in livestock and economic losses to producing countries. This study describes several novel variable-number tandem repeats patterns and points out the high genetic diversity of Brazilian strains. Understanding the circulation of strains between animals is essential for the control of leptospirosis in livestock.