The need
Leprosy remains a public health concern in the tropical Americas, with growing evidence that it may not only be transmitted from human to human but also through interactions with wildlife and the environment. The role of armadillos and other animal species as potential reservoirs of Mycobacterium leprae raises questions about how the disease spreads and persists in different regions. However, there is still limited understanding of these zoonotic pathways and their implications for disease control.
This project seeks to uncover the complex transmission dynamics of leprosy by combining cutting-edge molecular techniques (e.g Nanopore) with field-based surveillance and spatial modelling. The findings will contribute to improved public health policies and better strategies to mitigate the risks of zoonotic disease transmission.
Duration
2024 – 2027
Location
Brazil
What we’re doing
This project integrates molecular diagnostics (qPCR) with advanced sequencing technologies (Illumina and Nanopore) to investigate leprosy transmission in Brazil. Our key activities include:
1
Detecting mycobacteriosis in armadillos to assess their role as disease reservoirs.
2
Analysing genetic relatedness of M. leprae strains across humans, armadillos, and environmental samples to track transmission pathways.
3
Exploring antimicrobial resistance in M. leprae strains to support treatment strategies.
4
Collaborating with local communities and organisations to strengthen disease surveillance and control efforts.
5
Transferring knowledge and technology to scientists in tropical areas for the use of real-time portable sequencing devices in the field for disease surveillance.
The team
This project brings together researchers from multiple institutions, including:
CIFOR-ICRAF, University of Salford, University of Malaga, University College London (UCL), Manchester Metropolitan University (MMU), Virginia Tech, Universidade Federal do Espírito Santo, Centro Universitário Aparício Carvalho, Universidade Estadual da Paraíba, Universidade Federal do Piauí, Universidade Estadual do Ceará, Universidade Federal do Mato Grosso, Instituto de Desenvolvimento Sustentável Mamirauá, ICAS.
Project leads:
Supporters
This project is supported by
