Molecular characterization of virulent Leptospira interrogans serogroup Icterohaemorrhagiae isolated from Cavia aperea

Leptospirosis is a worldwide zoonotic infection caused by pathogenic Leptospira. Synanthropic rodents are recognized carriers of leptospires; however, the role of wild rodents in the epidemiology of the disease is still incipient. In this work, we describe Leptospira strain isolated from Cavia aperea (Brazilian guinea pig). The isolated strain was characterized by partial rpoB gene sequencing, variable-number tandem-repeats and histopathological analysis. The strain was identified as Leptospira interrogans, serogroup Icterohaemorrhagiae and caused clinical signs of leptospirosis in the hamster model, attesting to its virulence. In conclusion, these findings could be useful for elucidating the epidemiological role of C. aperea in leptospirosis.