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Tomiak J, Stensvold CR. Accelerating the paradigm shift in Blastocystis research. Trends Parasitol 2024:S1471-4922(24)00198-3. [PMID: 39069433 DOI: 10.1016/j.pt.2024.07.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2024] [Accepted: 07/16/2024] [Indexed: 07/30/2024]
Abstract
Blastocystis, once targeted as a harmful intestinal parasite, is now seen as potentially beneficial. Piperni et al. link its presence to improved gut health, higher microbial diversity, and favorable cardiometabolic outcomes, which suggests that Blastocystis might indicate a healthy diet and gut, possibly serving as a symbiont rather than a pathogen.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeff Tomiak
- University of Stavanger, Department of Chemistry, Bioscience, and Environmental Engineering, Stavanger, Norway; Laboratory of Parasitology, Department of Bacteria, Parasites, and Fungi, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Christen Rune Stensvold
- Laboratory of Parasitology, Department of Bacteria, Parasites, and Fungi, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark.
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Jinatham V, Yowang A, Stensvold CR, Michalopoulou E, Vichasilp T, Suwannahitatorn P, Popluechai S, Tsaousis AD, Gentekaki E. Blastocystis colonization and associations with population parameters in Thai adults. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2024; 18:e0012292. [PMID: 38980911 PMCID: PMC11259296 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0012292] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2023] [Revised: 07/19/2024] [Accepted: 06/13/2024] [Indexed: 07/11/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Blastocystis is a unicellular eukaryote commonly found in the intestinal tract of humans and other animals. The prevalence of Blastocystis has been investigated in both developed and developing countries, yet its occurrence and distribution in rural locations has been less studied. Herein, we aimed to examine the distribution of Blastocystis colonization in Thai adults representing background populations along a rural/peri-urban gradient, as well as associations between colonization and personal characteristics. METHODOLOGY A total of 238 participants were recruited from rural and peri-urban areas situated in three provinces. The presence of Blastocystis in feces was evaluated using PCR and qPCR. Information on gender, age, region (province), rural/peri-urban location, and body mass index (BMI) was collected. PRINCIPAL FINDINGS The overall rate of Blastocystis carriage was 67.2%. Univariate analysis revealed significant associations between Blastocystis carriage and region (p<0.05), location (p<0.001) and age group (p<0.05). Logistic regression analysis revealed that rural/peri-urban location and BMI were significantly associated with Blastocystis carriage. Nine subtypes (ST1-ST7, ST10 and ST23) were identified with ST3, ST7 and ST1 as the most abundant ones, in this order. The greatest diversity of subtypes, in terms of numbers, was found in the middle aged group (nine subtypes), while the least diversity was found in the young adult and obese (three subtypes each) groups. CONCLUSIONS This study increases the understanding of the epidemiology of Blastocystis colonization and its association with population parameters and characteristics in middle-income countries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vasana Jinatham
- School of Science, Mae Fah Luang University, Chiang Rai, Thailand
| | - Amara Yowang
- Regional Medical Sciences Center 1/1 Chiang Rai, Department of Medical Sciences, Ministry of Public Health, Chiang Rai, Thailand
| | | | - Eleni Michalopoulou
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Nicosia School of Veterinary Medicine, Nicosia, Cyprus
| | | | | | - Siam Popluechai
- School of Science, Mae Fah Luang University, Chiang Rai, Thailand
- Gut Microbiome Research Group, Mae Fah Luang University, Chiang Rai, Thailand
| | - Anastasios D. Tsaousis
- Laboratory of Molecular and Evolutionary Parasitology, RAPID group, School of Biosciences, University of Kent, Canterbury, United Kingdom
| | - Eleni Gentekaki
- School of Science, Mae Fah Luang University, Chiang Rai, Thailand
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Nicosia School of Veterinary Medicine, Nicosia, Cyprus
- Gut Microbiome Research Group, Mae Fah Luang University, Chiang Rai, Thailand
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3
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Maghsood AH, Kayedimajd S, Motavallihaghi S, Abedian R, Kordi S, Davoodi L, Faizi F, Soleymani E. Irritable Bowel Syndrome Associated with Blastocystis hominis or Without Relationship to It? A Case-Control Study and Minireview. Acta Parasitol 2024; 69:639-647. [PMID: 38300499 DOI: 10.1007/s11686-023-00787-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2023] [Accepted: 12/21/2023] [Indexed: 02/02/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Blastocystis hominis (B. hominis) is a protozoan parasite that has a worldwide distribution. Some studies have suggested a link between B. hominis and the development of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). The objective of this study was to determine the prevalence of B. hominis in patients with IBS compared to healthy individuals. MATERIAL AND METHODS A total of 65 stool samples from patients with IBS and 65 samples from healthy individuals in northern Iran were examined. The samples were tested using various methods including direct smear, formalin ether sedimentation and culture to detect the presence of B. hominis. Additionally, polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was performed on all culture-positive isolates to confirm the results and identify the genotype. RESULTS B. hominis was detected in 15.38% of IBS patients and 9.2% of the healthy group. The culture in RPMI1640 was found to be better than the formalin ether and direct smear methods. Positive samples were confirmed using the molecular method. No significant difference was observed in the order of B. hominis infection between the two groups. CONCLUSIONS The results of our study indicate that no significant difference was observed in the order of B. hominis infection between IBS patients and healthy groups. Therefore, further study is necessary to determine the potential pathogenic effects of this parasite and its role in causing IBS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amir Hossein Maghsood
- Department of Medical Mycology and Parasitology, School of Medicine, Hamadan University of Medical Science, Hamadan, Iran
| | | | - Seyedmousa Motavallihaghi
- Department of Medical Mycology and Parasitology, School of Medicine, Hamadan University of Medical Science, Hamadan, Iran
| | - Rohallah Abedian
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Antimicrobial Resistance Research Center, Faculty of Medicine, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
| | - Shirafkan Kordi
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Antimicrobial Resistance Research Center, Faculty of Medicine, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
| | - Lotfollah Davoodi
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Antimicrobial Resistance Research Center, Faculty of Medicine, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
| | - Fariba Faizi
- Department of Medical Mycology and Parasitology, School of Medicine, Hamadan University of Medical Science, Hamadan, Iran
| | - Eissa Soleymani
- Department of Medical Mycology and Parasitology, School of Medicine, Hamadan University of Medical Science, Hamadan, Iran.
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4
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Shasha D, Grupel D, Treigerman O, Prajgrod G, Paran Y, Hacham D, Ben-Ami R, Albukrek D, Zacay G. The clinical significance of Dientamoeba fragilis and Blastocystis in human stool-retrospective cohort study. Clin Microbiol Infect 2024; 30:130-136. [PMID: 37689266 DOI: 10.1016/j.cmi.2023.09.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2023] [Revised: 08/30/2023] [Accepted: 09/04/2023] [Indexed: 09/11/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The aim of this study was to assess the clinical significance of Dientamoeba fragilis (DF) and Blastocystis species (Bs) in human stool. METHODS Observational study of patients ≥18 years, who were tested by stool multiplex PCR for bacteria and parasites between April 2019 and March 2022. Although DF and Bs are part of the PCR kit, these results are not routinely reported to the patient or the ordering physician. The main outcomes were the incidence of symptoms during 14 days before the referral to stool PCR test, and the incidence of several clinical outcomes during 60 days after the PCR test (symptoms, referrals to further evaluation, prescription of symptomatic, or antibiotic treatment). RESULTS A total of 27 918 patients were tested by stool PCR during the 3 study years. A total of 6215 (22.3%) and 5337 (19.2%) were positive for DF and Bs, respectively. The incidence of symptoms before the test was similar in those positive for Bs or DF and those with all-negative PCR (adjusted OR and 95% CI of 0.87 [0.80-0.95] and 0.82 [0.76-0.88] for Bs and DF, respectively), whereas significantly higher (2.47 [2.23-2.73]) in those positive for the other multiplex PCR assay components. During the 60 days after the test, the prevalence of any of the outcomes was similar in those positive for Bs or DF and those with negative PCR (adjusted OR and 95% CI of 0.92 [0.83-1.02] and 0.89 [0.81-0.97] for symptoms, 0.84 [0.75-0.94] and 0.93 [0.85-1.01] for referrals, 0.88 [0.75-1.03] and 0.82 [0.71-0.94] for symptomatic treatment, and 0.88 [0.75-1.02] and 0.86 [0.75-0.98] for antibiotic treatment in the Bs and DF positive individuals, respectively). The PCR cycle threshold was not associated with any of the outcomes. DISCUSSION Positive stool PCR for DF or Bs was not associated with any of the measured clinical outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Shasha
- Head Office, Medical Division, Meuhedet Health Services, Tel Aviv, Israel; Infectious Disease Unit, Tel-Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Tel Aviv, Israel; Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel.
| | - Daniel Grupel
- Department of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, Hadassah-Hebrew University Medical Center, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Orit Treigerman
- Head Office, Medical Division, Meuhedet Health Services, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - George Prajgrod
- Head Office, Medical Division, Meuhedet Health Services, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Yael Paran
- Infectious Disease Unit, Tel-Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Tel Aviv, Israel; Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Dror Hacham
- Head Office, Medical Division, Meuhedet Health Services, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Ronen Ben-Ami
- Infectious Disease Unit, Tel-Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Tel Aviv, Israel; Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Dov Albukrek
- Head Office, Medical Division, Meuhedet Health Services, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Galia Zacay
- Head Office, Medical Division, Meuhedet Health Services, Tel Aviv, Israel; Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
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Vonaesch P, Billy V, Mann AE, Morien E, Habib A, Collard JM, Dédé M, Kapel N, Sansonetti PJ, Parfrey LW. The eukaryome of African children is influenced by geographic location, gut biogeography, and nutritional status. MICROLIFE 2023; 4:uqad033. [PMID: 37680753 PMCID: PMC10481997 DOI: 10.1093/femsml/uqad033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2023] [Accepted: 07/17/2023] [Indexed: 09/09/2023]
Abstract
Eukaryotes have historically been studied as parasites, but recent evidence suggests they may be indicators of a healthy gut ecosystem. Here, we describe the eukaryome along the gastrointestinal tract of children aged 2-5 years and test for associations with clinical factors such as anaemia, intestinal inflammation, chronic undernutrition, and age. Children were enrolled from December 2016 to May 2018 in Bangui, Central African Republic and Antananarivo, Madagascar. We analyzed a total of 1104 samples representing 212 gastric, 187 duodenal, and 705 fecal samples using a metabarcoding approach targeting the full ITS2 region for fungi, and the V4 hypervariable region of the 18S rRNA gene for the overall eukaryome. Roughly, half of all fecal samples showed microeukaryotic reads. We find high intersubject variability, only a handful of taxa that are likely residents of the gastrointestinal tract, and frequent co-occurrence of eukaryotes within an individual. We also find that the eukaryome differs between the stomach, duodenum, and feces and is strongly influenced by country of origin. Our data show trends towards higher levels of Fusarium equiseti, a mycotoxin producing fungus, and lower levels of the protist Blastocystis in stunted children compared to nonstunted controls. Overall, the eukaryome is poorly correlated with clinical variables. Our study is of one of the largest cohorts analyzing the human intestinal eukaryome to date and the first to compare the eukaryome across different compartments of the gastrointestinal tract. Our results highlight the importance of studying populations across the world to uncover common features of the eukaryome in health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pascale Vonaesch
- Unité de Pathogénie Microbienne Moléculaire, Institut Pasteur, 25-28 Rue du Dr Roux, 75015 Paris, France
| | - Vincent Billy
- Departments of Botany and Zoology, and Biodiversity Research Centre, University of British Columbia, 3200-6270 University Boulevard, V6T1Z4 Vancouver, Canada
| | - Allison E Mann
- Departments of Botany and Zoology, and Biodiversity Research Centre, University of British Columbia, 3200-6270 University Boulevard, V6T1Z4 Vancouver, Canada
| | - Evan Morien
- Departments of Botany and Zoology, and Biodiversity Research Centre, University of British Columbia, 3200-6270 University Boulevard, V6T1Z4 Vancouver, Canada
| | - Azimdine Habib
- Unité de Bactériologie Expérimentale, Institut Pasteur de Madagascar, BP1274 Ambatofotsikely Avaradoha 101 Antananarivo, Madagascar
| | - Jean-Marc Collard
- Unité de Bactériologie Expérimentale, Institut Pasteur de Madagascar, BP1274 Ambatofotsikely Avaradoha 101 Antananarivo, Madagascar
| | - Michel Dédé
- Laboratoire d’Analyse médicale, Institut Pasteur de Bangui, Avenue De Independence Bangui, 923 Central African Republic
| | - Nathalie Kapel
- Laboratoire de Coprologie Fonctionnelle, Assistance Publique- Hôpitaux de Paris, Hôpital Pitié-Salpêtrière, 47-83 Bd de l’Hôpital, 75013 Paris, France
| | - Philippe J Sansonetti
- Unité de Pathogénie Microbienne Moléculaire, Institut Pasteur, 25-28 Rue du Dr Roux, 75015 Paris, France
| | - Laura Wegener Parfrey
- Departments of Botany and Zoology, and Biodiversity Research Centre, University of British Columbia, 3200-6270 University Boulevard, V6T1Z4 Vancouver, Canada
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McCain A, Gruneck L, Popluechai S, Tsaousis AD, Gentekaki E. Circulation and colonisation of Blastocystis subtypes in schoolchildren of various ethnicities in rural northern Thailand. Epidemiol Infect 2023; 151:e77. [PMID: 37185159 PMCID: PMC10204141 DOI: 10.1017/s0950268823000596] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2022] [Revised: 04/12/2023] [Accepted: 04/13/2023] [Indexed: 05/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Blastocystis is a protist of controversial pathogenicity inhabiting the gut of humans and other animals. Despite a century of intense study, understanding of the epidemiology of Blastocystis remains fragmentary. Here, we aimed to explore its prevalence, stability of colonisation and association with various factors in a rural elementary school in northern Thailand. One hundred and forty faecal samples were collected from 104 children at two time points (tp) 105 days apart. For tp2, samples were also obtained from 15 animals residing on campus and seven water locations. Prevalence in children was 67% at tp1 and 89% at tp2, 63% in chickens, 86% in pigs, and 57% in water. Ten STs were identified, two of which were shared between humans and animals, one between animals and water, and three between humans and water. Eighteen children (out of 36) carried the same ST over both time points, indicating stable colonisation. Presence of Blastocystis (or ST) was not associated with body mass index, ethnicity, birth delivery mode, or milk source as an infant. This study advances understanding of Blastocystis prevalence in an understudied age group, the role of the environment in transmission, and the ability of specific STs to stably colonise children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abby McCain
- School of Science, Mae Fah Luang University, Chiang Rai, Thailand
| | - Lucsame Gruneck
- Gut Microbiome Research Group, Mae Fah Luang University, Chiang Rai, Thailand
| | - Siam Popluechai
- School of Science, Mae Fah Luang University, Chiang Rai, Thailand
- Gut Microbiome Research Group, Mae Fah Luang University, Chiang Rai, Thailand
| | - Anastasios D. Tsaousis
- Laboratory of Molecular and Evolutionary Parasitology, RAPID Group, School of Biosciences, University of Kent, Canterbury, UK
| | - Eleni Gentekaki
- School of Science, Mae Fah Luang University, Chiang Rai, Thailand
- Gut Microbiome Research Group, Mae Fah Luang University, Chiang Rai, Thailand
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Jirků M, Kašparová A, Lhotská Z, Oborník M, Brožová K, Petrželková KJ, Samaš P, Kadlecová O, Stensvold CR, Jirků K. A Cross-Sectional Study on the Occurrence of the Intestinal Protist, Dientamoeba fragilis, in the Gut-Healthy Volunteers and Their Animals. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232315407. [PMID: 36499734 PMCID: PMC9737029 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232315407] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2022] [Revised: 11/30/2022] [Accepted: 12/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Dientamoeba fragilis is a cosmopolitan intestinal protist colonizing the human gut with varying prevalence depending on the cohort studied and the diagnostic methods used. Its role in human health remains unclear mainly due to the very sporadic number of cross-sectional studies in gut-healthy populations. The main objective of this study was to expand knowledge of the epidemiology of D. fragilis in gut-healthy humans and their animals. A total of 296 stool samples from humans and 135 samples from 18 animal species were analyzed. Using qPCR, a prevalence of 24% was found in humans in contrast to conventional PCR (7%). In humans, several factors were found to influence the prevalence of D. fragilis. A more frequent occurrence of D. fragilis was associated with living in a village, traveling outside Europe and contact with farm animals. In addition, co-infection with Blastocystis spp. was observed in nearly half of the colonized humans. In animals, D. fragilis was detected in 13% of samples from eight species using qPCR. Our molecular phylogenies demonstrate a more frequent occurrence of Genotype 1 in gut-healthy humans and also revealed a likely a new protist species/lineage in rabbits related to D. fragilis and other related organisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Milan Jirků
- Institute of Parasitology, Biology Centre, The Czech Academy of Sciences, Branišovská 31, 370 05 České Budějovice, Czech Republic
| | - Andrea Kašparová
- Institute of Parasitology, Biology Centre, The Czech Academy of Sciences, Branišovská 31, 370 05 České Budějovice, Czech Republic
- Faculty of Science, University of South Bohemia, Branišovská 31, 370 05 České Budějovice, Czech Republic
| | - Zuzana Lhotská
- Institute of Parasitology, Biology Centre, The Czech Academy of Sciences, Branišovská 31, 370 05 České Budějovice, Czech Republic
- Faculty of Science, University of South Bohemia, Branišovská 31, 370 05 České Budějovice, Czech Republic
| | - Miroslav Oborník
- Institute of Parasitology, Biology Centre, The Czech Academy of Sciences, Branišovská 31, 370 05 České Budějovice, Czech Republic
- Faculty of Science, University of South Bohemia, Branišovská 31, 370 05 České Budějovice, Czech Republic
| | - Kristýna Brožová
- Institute of Parasitology, Biology Centre, The Czech Academy of Sciences, Branišovská 31, 370 05 České Budějovice, Czech Republic
- Faculty of Science, University of South Bohemia, Branišovská 31, 370 05 České Budějovice, Czech Republic
| | - Klára J. Petrželková
- Institute of Parasitology, Biology Centre, The Czech Academy of Sciences, Branišovská 31, 370 05 České Budějovice, Czech Republic
- Institute of Vertebrate Biology, The Czech Academy of Sciences, Květná 8, 603 65 Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Peter Samaš
- Institute of Vertebrate Biology, The Czech Academy of Sciences, Květná 8, 603 65 Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Oldřiška Kadlecová
- Institute of Parasitology, Biology Centre, The Czech Academy of Sciences, Branišovská 31, 370 05 České Budějovice, Czech Republic
| | - Christen Rune Stensvold
- Department of Bacteria, Parasites and Fungi, Statens Serum Institut, 5 Artillerivej, 2300 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Kateřina Jirků
- Institute of Parasitology, Biology Centre, The Czech Academy of Sciences, Branišovská 31, 370 05 České Budějovice, Czech Republic
- Faculty of Science, University of South Bohemia, Branišovská 31, 370 05 České Budějovice, Czech Republic
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +420-38-777-5470
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Dubik M, Pilecki B, Moeller JB. Commensal Intestinal Protozoa-Underestimated Members of the Gut Microbial Community. BIOLOGY 2022; 11:biology11121742. [PMID: 36552252 PMCID: PMC9774987 DOI: 10.3390/biology11121742] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2022] [Revised: 11/24/2022] [Accepted: 11/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022]
Abstract
The human gastrointestinal microbiota contains a diverse consortium of microbes, including bacteria, protozoa, viruses, and fungi. Through millennia of co-evolution, the host-microbiota interactions have shaped the immune system to both tolerate and maintain the symbiotic relationship with commensal microbiota, while exerting protective responses against invading pathogens. Microbiome research is dominated by studies describing the impact of prokaryotic bacteria on gut immunity with a limited understanding of their relationship with other integral microbiota constituents. However, converging evidence shows that eukaryotic organisms, such as commensal protozoa, can play an important role in modulating intestinal immune responses as well as influencing the overall health of the host. The presence of several protozoa species has recently been shown to be a common occurrence in healthy populations worldwide, suggesting that many of these are commensals rather than invading pathogens. This review aims to discuss the most recent, conflicting findings regarding the role of intestinal protozoa in gut homeostasis, interactions between intestinal protozoa and the bacterial microbiota, as well as potential immunological consequences of protozoa colonization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Magdalena Dubik
- Department of Cancer and Inflammation Research, Institute of Molecular Medicine, University of Southern Denmark, 5000 Odense, Denmark
| | - Bartosz Pilecki
- Department of Cancer and Inflammation Research, Institute of Molecular Medicine, University of Southern Denmark, 5000 Odense, Denmark
| | - Jesper Bonnet Moeller
- Department of Cancer and Inflammation Research, Institute of Molecular Medicine, University of Southern Denmark, 5000 Odense, Denmark
- Danish Institute for Advanced Study, University of Southern Denmark, 5230 Odense, Denmark
- Correspondence:
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Bénard MV, de Bruijn CMA, Fenneman AC, Wortelboer K, Zeevenhoven J, Rethans B, Herrema HJ, van Gool T, Nieuwdorp M, Benninga MA, Ponsioen CY. Challenges and costs of donor screening for fecal microbiota transplantations. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0276323. [PMID: 36264933 PMCID: PMC9584411 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0276323] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2022] [Accepted: 10/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The increasing interest to perform and investigate the efficacy of fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) has generated an urge for feasible donor screening. We report our experience with stool donor recruitment, screening, follow-up, and associated costs in the context of clinical FMT trials. METHODS Potential stool donors, aged between 18-65 years, underwent a stepwise screening process starting with an extensive questionnaire followed by feces and blood investigations. When eligible, donors were rescreened for MDROs and SARS-CoV-2 every 60-days, and full rescreening every 4-6 months. The costs to find and retain a stool donor were calculated. RESULTS From January 2018 to August 2021, 393 potential donors underwent prescreening, of which 202 (51.4%) did not proceed primarily due to loss to follow-up, medication use, or logistic reasons (e.g. COVID-19 measures). 191 potential donors filled in the questionnaire, of which 43 (22.5%) were excluded. The remaining 148 candidates underwent parasitology screening: 91 (61.5%) were excluded, mostly due to Dientamoeba fragilis and/or high amounts of Blastocystis spp. After additional feces investigations 18/57 (31.6%) potential donors were excluded (mainly for presence of Helicobacter Pylori and ESBL-producing organisms). One donor failed serum testing. Overall, 38 out of 393 (10%) potential donors were enrolled. The median participation time of active stool donors was 13 months. To recruit 38 stool donors, €64.112 was spent. CONCLUSION Recruitment of stool donors for FMT is challenging. In our Dutch cohort, failed eligibility of potential donors was often caused by the presence of the protozoa Dientamoeba fragilis and Blastocystis spp.. The exclusion of potential donors that carry these protozoa, especially Blastocystis spp., is questionable and deserves reconsideration. High-quality donor screening is associated with substantial costs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mèlanie V. Bénard
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Amsterdam Gastroenterology Endocrinology Metabolism (AGEM), Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- * E-mail:
| | - Clara M. A. de Bruijn
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Amsterdam Gastroenterology Endocrinology Metabolism (AGEM), Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Emma Children’s Hospital, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam Reproduction & Development Research Institute, Amsterdam UMC, Emma Children’s Hospital, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Aline C. Fenneman
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Amsterdam Gastroenterology Endocrinology Metabolism (AGEM), Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Vascular Medicine, Amsterdam Cardiovascular Sciences (ACS), Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Koen Wortelboer
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Vascular Medicine, Amsterdam Cardiovascular Sciences (ACS), Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Judith Zeevenhoven
- Emma Children’s Hospital, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Bente Rethans
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Amsterdam Gastroenterology Endocrinology Metabolism (AGEM), Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Hilde J. Herrema
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Vascular Medicine, Amsterdam Cardiovascular Sciences (ACS), Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Tom van Gool
- Section Clinical Parasitology, Department of Medical Microbiology, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Amsterdam Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Max Nieuwdorp
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Vascular Medicine, Amsterdam Cardiovascular Sciences (ACS), Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Marc A. Benninga
- Emma Children’s Hospital, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Cyriel Y. Ponsioen
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Amsterdam Gastroenterology Endocrinology Metabolism (AGEM), Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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Gut Non-Bacterial Microbiota: Emerging Link to Irritable Bowel Syndrome. Toxins (Basel) 2022; 14:toxins14090596. [PMID: 36136534 PMCID: PMC9503233 DOI: 10.3390/toxins14090596] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2022] [Revised: 08/18/2022] [Accepted: 08/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
As a common functional gastrointestinal disorder, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) significantly affects personal health and imposes a substantial economic burden on society, but the current understanding of its occurrence and treatment is still inadequate. Emerging evidence suggests that IBS is associated with gut microbial dysbiosis, but most studies focus on the bacteria and neglect other communities of the microbiota, including fungi, viruses, archaea, and other parasitic microorganisms. This review summarizes the latest findings that link the nonbacterial microbiota with IBS. IBS patients show less fungal and viral diversity but some alterations in mycobiome, virome, and archaeome, such as an increased abundance of Candida albicans. Moreover, fungi and methanogens can aid in diagnosis. Fungi are related to distinct IBS symptoms and induce immune responses, intestinal barrier disruption, and visceral hypersensitivity via specific receptors, cells, and metabolites. Novel therapeutic methods for IBS include fungicides, inhibitors targeting fungal pathogenic pathways, probiotic fungi, prebiotics, and fecal microbiota transplantation. Additionally, viruses, methanogens, and parasitic microorganisms are also involved in the pathophysiology and treatment. Therefore, the gut nonbacterial microbiota is involved in the pathogenesis of IBS, which provides a novel perspective on the noninvasive diagnosis and precise treatment of this disease.
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Unalan-Altintop T, Vahabov C, Ergunay K, Kurt O, Kav T, Akyon Y, Erguven S. Investigation of Dientamoeba fragilis and Blastocystis in patients from Turkey with ulcerative colitis and irritable bowel syndrome: Any relation with genotypes? Acta Trop 2022; 231:106451. [PMID: 35390312 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2022.106451] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2021] [Revised: 03/12/2022] [Accepted: 04/03/2022] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Blastocystis sp. and Dientamoeba fragilis are two most common protists worldwide, whose pathogenic potentials are a matter of debate since their discovery. This study aims to investigate the relationship between the activation of ulcerative colitis (UC) and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) with these protists. A total of 100 patients (35 IBS, 35 active UC, and 30 remittent UC), diagnosed at Hacettepe University Adult Hospital (Ankara, Turkey), were screened for D. fragilis and Blastocystis sp. with microscopic examination using the methods of wet mount, trichrome staining, conventional PCR, nested PCR, real-time PCR and genotyping. Eight patients (4 IBS, 2 active, and 2 remittent UC patients) were found to be D. fragilis positive. 18S rRNA region of the parasite was amplified in four of the patients, whereas cathepsin L-like cysteine peptidase; clan Sc, family S9, serine peptidase; and clan MH, family M20 metallopeptidase in six different patients. All isolates were Genotype 1. Sequence results showed very limited diversity. A total of nine patients (3 IBS, 5 active UC, 1 remittent UC) were found to be positive for Blastocystis sp., all of which were Subtype 3. One active UC and one IBS patient were found to be positive for both parasites. No statistically significant difference was detected between the patient groups in means of parasite detection. D. fragilis was found to be related to older age (p=0,045). In our study, no significant correlation was identified between D. fragilis and Blastocystis sp., and the activation of UC and IBS. More studies are needed on the host-parasite relationship, including the role of gut microbiota, together with transcriptomic and metabolomic assessments to unveil the pathogenicity of both protists.
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Olyaiee A, Sadeghi A, Yadegar A, Mirsamadi ES, Mirjalali H. Gut Microbiota Shifting in Irritable Bowel Syndrome: The Mysterious Role of Blastocystis sp. Front Med (Lausanne) 2022; 9:890127. [PMID: 35795640 PMCID: PMC9251125 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2022.890127] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2022] [Accepted: 05/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a chronic disorder, which its causative agent is not completely clear; however, the interaction between microorganisms and gastrointestinal (GI) epithelial cells plays a critical role in the development of IBS and presenting symptoms. During recent decades, many studies have highlighted the high prevalence of Blastocystis sp. in patients with IBS and suggested a probable role for this protist in this disease. Recent studies have documented changes in the gut microbiota composition in patients with IBS regarding the presence of Blastocystis sp., but it is not clear that either disturbance of the gut during GI disorders is a favorable condition for Blastocystis sp. colonization or the presence of this protist may lead to alteration in the gut microbiota in IBS patients. In this review, we comprehensively gather and discuss scientific findings covering the role of Blastocystis sp. in IBS via gut microbiota shifting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alireza Olyaiee
- Department of Biology, Science and Research Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Amir Sadeghi
- Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases Research Center, Research Institute for Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Abbas Yadegar
- Foodborne and Waterborne Diseases Research Center, Research Institute for Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Elnaz Sadat Mirsamadi
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hamed Mirjalali
- Foodborne and Waterborne Diseases Research Center, Research Institute for Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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13
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Stool Microbiota Diversity Analysis of Blastocystis-Positive and Blastocystis-Negative Individuals. Microorganisms 2022; 10:microorganisms10020326. [PMID: 35208781 PMCID: PMC8878401 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms10020326] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2022] [Revised: 01/28/2022] [Accepted: 01/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/07/2022] Open
Abstract
Blastocystis is a unicellular eukaryote found in the gastrointestinal tract of both human and other animal hosts. The clinical significance of colonic Blastocystis colonization remains obscure. In this study, we used metabarcoding and bioinformatics analyses to identify differences in stool microbiota diversity between Blastocystis-positive and Blastocystis-negative individuals (n = 1285). Alpha diversity was significantly higher in Blastocystis carriers. At phylum level, Firmicutes and Bacteroidetes were enriched in carriers, while Proteobacteria were enriched in non-carriers. The genera Prevotella, Faecalibacterium, Flavonifracter, Clostridium, Succinivibrio, and Oscillibacter were enriched in carriers, whereas Escherichia, Bacteroides, Klebsiella, and Pseudomonas were enriched in non-carriers. No difference in beta diversity was observed. Individuals with Blastocystis-positive stools appear to have gut microbiomes associated with eubiosis unlike those with Blastocystis-negative stools, whose gut microbiomes are similar to those associated with dysbiosis. The role of Blastocystis as an indicator organism and potential modulator of the gut microbiota warrants further scrutiny.
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14
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Pestechian N, Tavakoli S, Adibi P, Safa AH, Parsaei R, Yousefi HA. Prevalence of Intestinal Protozoan Infection in Patients with Ulcerative Colitis (UC) in Isfahan, Iran. Int J Prev Med 2021; 12:114. [PMID: 34760125 PMCID: PMC8551772 DOI: 10.4103/ijpvm.ijpvm_471_19] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2019] [Accepted: 02/14/2020] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Determination of the prevalence of intestinal protozoan infection is a fundamental step to set up an effective control program to improve the health status of society and to establish efficient strategies. Intestinal pathogen and even non-pathogen protozoa consider as major causes of disease in patients with gastrointestinal problems. The objective of this study is to determine the prevalence of intestinal protozoan infection in patients with ulcerative colitis (UC) in Isfahan, Iran. Methods: The descriptive cross-sectional study carried out from 2013 to 2018 in Isfahan, Iran. One thousand nine hundred and sixty-five samples of feces from patients with UC collected and each sample examined using direct wet mounting with normal saline and iodine and sedimentation tests such as formol-ethyl acetate concentration and trichrome-staining methods. Results: From 655 patients, 185 (28.2%) infected with Giardia lamblia followed by Blastocystis hominis (27.3%), Endolimax nana (14.4%), Entamoeba coli (11.5%), Iodamoba butschlii (4.7%), Entamoeba histolytica (1.4%), and Chilomastix mesnili (0.6%). Conclusions: This study revealed a high prevalence of infection with at least one or six non-pathogenic and pathogenic intestinal protozoa in UC patients in the Isfahan region. Intestinal protozoa are a challenging public health problem wherever health care is limited in the area. The emergence of UC in the world results in the need to study etiologic factors. In order to obtain further information about the etiology of disease, we investigated the prevalence of intestinal protozoan infection in patients with UC in Isfahan, Iran.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nader Pestechian
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine and Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine Research Center, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Sanaz Tavakoli
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine and Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine Research Center, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Payman Adibi
- Integrative Functional Gastroenterology Research Centre, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran.,Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Ahmad Hosseini Safa
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Public Health, Tehran, Iran
| | - Roghayeh Parsaei
- Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, School of Health, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Hossein Ali Yousefi
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine and Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine Research Center, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
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15
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Kosik-Bogacka D, Lepczyńska M, Kot K, Szkup M, Łanocha-Arendarczyk N, Dzika E, Grochans E. Prevalence, subtypes and risk factors of Blastocystis spp. infection among pre- and perimenopausal women. BMC Infect Dis 2021; 21:1125. [PMID: 34724915 PMCID: PMC8559403 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-021-06815-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2021] [Accepted: 10/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Blastocystis spp. are considered pathogenic or commensal organisms, although the majority of researchers suggest that these are neglected pathogens. The main aim of this study was to determine the prevalence and subtype distribution of Blastocystis spp. in pre- and perimenopausal women, with respect to socio-demographic (age and place of residence), and epidemiological factors, as well as drinking tap water, contact with domestic animals, traveling abroad, health status, and presence of gastrointestinal symptoms. Additionally, the objective was to compare hematological and biochemical parameters of Blastocystis spp. infected and uninfected women. Methods The study included 425 women aged 45–60. Their stool samples were examined microscopically and analyzed by a conventional polymerase chain reaction (cPCR). Results Blastocystis spp. were detected in 6.1% of pre- and perimenopausal women. Molecular analysis of the stool samples identified seven Blastocystis subtypes (ST1–ST4, ST6, ST7, and ST9). Blastocystis subtypes 2 and 3 were the most prevalent. The presence of Blastocystis spp. was not significantly related to socio-demographic and epidemiological factors. There were also no significant associations between Blastocystis spp. and blood parameters, or gastrointestinal symptoms. Conclusion This study complements the limited available data on the prevalence of Blastocystis spp. in pre- and perimenopausal women. It is also the first report showing the presence of Blastocystis subtype 9 in Poland.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danuta Kosik-Bogacka
- Independent Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Botany, Department of Biology and Medical Parasitology, Pomeranian Medical University in Szczecin, Powstanców Wielkopolskich 72, 70-111, Szczecin, Poland
| | - Małgorzata Lepczyńska
- Department of Medical Biology, School of Public Health, University of Warmia and Mazury, Żołnierska 14 C, 10-561, Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Karolina Kot
- Department of Biology and Medical Parasitology, Pomeranian Medical University in Szczecin, Powstanców Wielkopolskich 72, 70-111, Szczecin, Poland.
| | - Małgorzata Szkup
- Department of Nursing, Pomeranian Medical University in Szczecin, Żołnierska 48, 71-210, Szczecin, Poland
| | - Natalia Łanocha-Arendarczyk
- Department of Biology and Medical Parasitology, Pomeranian Medical University in Szczecin, Powstanców Wielkopolskich 72, 70-111, Szczecin, Poland
| | - Ewa Dzika
- Department of Medical Biology, School of Public Health, University of Warmia and Mazury, Żołnierska 14 C, 10-561, Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Elżbieta Grochans
- Department of Nursing, Pomeranian Medical University in Szczecin, Żołnierska 48, 71-210, Szczecin, Poland
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Molecular Characterization of Blastocystis sp. in Camelus bactrianus in Northwestern China. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:ani11113016. [PMID: 34827749 PMCID: PMC8614482 DOI: 10.3390/ani11113016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2021] [Revised: 10/15/2021] [Accepted: 10/17/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Knowledge for the distribution and genetic diversity of Blastocystis sp. can provide novel insights for the prevention and control of this parasite. The present study first reported the occurrence of Blastocystis infection in Camelus bactrianus, an important economic animal in northwestern China. We found the existence of eight Blastocystis subtypes in C. bactrianus, indicating potential risks and transmission of Blastocystis sp. for C. bactrianus. Abstract Blastocystis sp. is an important zoonotic protist in humans and various animals with worldwide distribution. However, there have been no data on the occurrence of Blastocystis sp. in C. bactrianus, an important economic animal in northwestern China. In the present study, a PCR-sequencing tool based on the SSU rRNA gene was applied to investigate the prevalence and genetic diversity of Blastocystis sp. in 638 faecal samples from C. bactrianus in 21 sampling sites within three main breeding areas (Gansu, Inner Mongolia and Xinjiang) in northwestern China. The total prevalence of Blastocystis sp. was 21.8% (139/638) in C. bactrianus, with the infection rates of 29.5% (18/61), 50.0% (14/28) and 19.5% (107/549) for animals aged <2 years, 2–6 years and >6 years, respectively. Significant differences in prevalence were detected among C. bactrianus from three geographic areas (χ2 = 19.972, df = 2, p < 0.001) and all sampling sites (χ2 = 104.154, df = 20, p < 0.001). A total of 16 of 21 sampling sites were positive for Blastocystis sp., with the prevalence ranging from 7.7% to 70.6%. Sequence analysis of the SSU rRNA gene identified eight subtypes in C. bactrianus in the present study, including seven animal adapted subtypes (ST10, ST14, ST21, ST24, ST25, ST26 and ST30) and one potentially novel subtype, with ST10 being the dominant one. To the best of our knowledge, this study provides the first insight for the occurrence and genetic make-up of Blastocystis sp. in C. bactrianus and contributes to the understanding of the transmission of Blastocystis infection in C. bactrianus in China.
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Abedi SH, Fazlzadeh A, Mollalo A, Sartip B, Mahjour S, Bahadory S, Taghipour A, Rostami A. The neglected role of Blastocystis sp. and Giardia lamblia in development of irritable bowel syndrome: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Microb Pathog 2021; 162:105215. [PMID: 34592369 DOI: 10.1016/j.micpath.2021.105215] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2021] [Revised: 09/22/2021] [Accepted: 09/25/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
The possible role of Blastocystis sp. and Giardia lamblia infections in the development of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) has long been controversial. In this study, we conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to investigate whether these protozoan infections are associated with IBS development. We systematically searched international databases for all studies that reported these protozoa in IBS patients published by May 10, 2021. Studies were included in the review if they were observational studies with confirmed patients with IBS (in case-control and cross-sectional studies) or parasitic infections (cohort studies) with an appropriate control group. Pooled odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals were estimated using a random-effects meta-analysis model for included studies. A total of 32 papers (42 datasets), including 29 papers (31 datasets) for Blastocystis sp./IBS and 11 papers (11 datasets) for G. lamblia/IBS met the eligibility criteria. Our results indicated that the individuals with Blastocystis sp. infection were significantly at a higher risk of IBS development (OR, 1.78; 95%CI, 1.29-2.44). Moreover, cohort studies indicated a significant positive association between G. lamblia infection and IBS risk (OR, 5.47; 95%CI, 4.23-7.08); while an increasing but no statistically significant risk was observed in case-control studies (OR, 1.19; 95%CI, 0.75-1.87). Our findings suggested that Blastocystis sp. and G. lamblia infections are associated with the increased risk of developing IBS. Despite these results, further studies are needed to determine the effect of these protozoa on IBS development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seyed Hasan Abedi
- Cancer Research Center, Health Research Institute, Babol University of Medical Sciences, Babol, Iran
| | - Aylar Fazlzadeh
- Department of Internal Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Abolfazl Mollalo
- Department of Public Health and Prevention Science, School of Health Sciences, Baldwin Wallace University, Berea, OH, USA
| | - Behnam Sartip
- Department of Internal Medicine, Zanjan University of Medical Sciences, Zanjan, Iran
| | - Sanaz Mahjour
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Northwestern Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, 60611, USA
| | - Saeed Bahadory
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ali Taghipour
- Zoonoses Research Center, School of Medicine, Jahrom University of Medical Sciences, Jahrom, Iran.
| | - Ali Rostami
- Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine Research Center, Health Research Institute, Babol University of Medical Sciences, Babol, Iran.
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Lepczyńska M, Dzika E, Chen W. PREVALENCE OF BLASTOCYSTIS SUBTYPES IN HEALTHY VOLUNTEERS IN NORTHEASTERN POLAND. J Parasitol 2021; 107:684-688. [PMID: 34478522 DOI: 10.1645/20-170] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Blastocystis is a common enteric protist that is linked to intestinal and extra-intestinal diseases. At least 24 subtypes (STs) have been described, with the main colonization of ST1-ST4 in humans. In our attempt to determine the distribution of Blastocystis STs in Olsztyn and surroundings in northeastern Poland, 319 stool samples from volunteers were subjected to copro-ELISA and PCR testing. Positive findings were identified in 77, 48, and 46 of the samples via copro-ELISA, PCR, and sequencing, respectively. Blastocystis colonization was not associated with gender or dwelling place but was statistically higher in people age 60-69 yr (32.6%). Five STs (ST1-ST4, ST7) were identified, in which ST3 (37%) was most prevalent, followed by ST2 (19.6%), ST1 (17.4%), ST4 (13%), and ST7 (8.7%). The current study revealed a similar rate of microorganism colonization in Polish volunteers compared to other developed countries, without significant differences in gender and dwelling place. Significant statistical differences were found in different age groups, where Blastocystis was highly detected in elderly people. In the current study, PCR was the most plausible method based on the sequencing results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Małgorzata Lepczyńska
- Department of Medical Biology, University of Warmia and Mazury, Żołnierska 14C, 10-561, Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Ewa Dzika
- Department of Medical Biology, University of Warmia and Mazury, Żołnierska 14C, 10-561, Olsztyn, Poland
| | - WenChieh Chen
- Department of Dermatology and Allergy, Technical University of Munich, Biedersteinerstrasse 29, D-80802, Munich, Germany
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Gotfred-Rasmussen H, Stensvold CR, Ingham AC, Johannesen TB, Andersen LO, Röser D, Nielsen HV. Impact of Metronidazole Treatment and Dientamoeba Fragilis Colonization on Gut Microbiota Diversity. J Pediatr Gastroenterol Nutr 2021; 73:23-29. [PMID: 33633081 DOI: 10.1097/mpg.0000000000003096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/10/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The intestinal parasite Dientamoeba fragilis is a common colonizer of children in Denmark. Metronidazole has been used to reduce gastrointestinal symptoms in children colonized with D fragilis. We aimed to identify gut microbiota changes associated with D fragilis carrier status and metronidazole treatment of D fragilis-positive children. METHODS The fecal microbiota of 275 fecal samples from children treated with metronidazole (n = 48) or placebo (n = 48) were characterized by ribosomal DNA sequencing. Samples collected before (T1), 2 weeks after (T2), and 8 weeks (T5) after treatment were included. Seventy fecal samples from 70 age-matched parasite-negative children served as controls. RESULTS The abundance of 24 bacterial genera differed significantly according to D fragilis carrier status, with Flavonifractor being remarkably more abundant in children testing negative for D fragilis. Eight bacterial genera changed significantly in abundance in children losing versus keeping D fragilis after metronidazole treatment. Of these, 7 returned to pretreatment (T1) levels at T5. Meanwhile, the abundance of Flavonifractor continued to differ at T5, whereas for Ruminococcus the abundance only remained high in children who were D fragilis-negative at T2 and T5. Increases in Hungatella, Sutterella, and Streptococcus abundances observed at T2 were specific to metronidazole exposure and hence independent of D fragilis colonization. CONCLUSIONS This study revealed that specific bacterial genera were associated with D fragilis colonization. Metronidazole treatment had a short-term impact on the abundance of some bacterial genera, with most of these reverting to pretreatment levels 8 weeks after completed treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Anna Cäcilia Ingham
- Department of Bacteria, Parasites and Fungi, Statens Serum Institut, Artillerivej 5, Copenhagen S
| | - Thor Bech Johannesen
- Department of Bacteria, Parasites and Fungi, Statens Serum Institut, Artillerivej 5, Copenhagen S
| | | | - Dennis Röser
- Department of Paediatrics, Copenhagen University Hospital Hvidovre, Kettegård Alle 30, Hvidovre, Denmark
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Stensvold CR, Jirků-Pomajbíková K, Tams KW, Jokelainen P, Berg RPKD, Marving E, Petersen RF, Andersen LO, Angen Ø, Nielsen HV. Parasitic Intestinal Protists of Zoonotic Relevance Detected in Pigs by Metabarcoding and Real-Time PCR. Microorganisms 2021; 9:microorganisms9061189. [PMID: 34073014 PMCID: PMC8229027 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms9061189] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2021] [Revised: 05/26/2021] [Accepted: 05/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Several parasite species are shared between humans and pigs. We explored the application of next-generation sequencing-based metabarcoding supplemented with real-time PCR to fecal DNAs from 259 samples from 116 pigs in Denmark to detect and differentiate single-celled intestinal parasites of zoonotic relevance. Enterocytozoon bieneusi, Balantioides coli, and Giardia duodenalis were observed in 34/37 (92%), 148/259 (57%), and 86/259 (33%) samples, respectively. Entamoeba polecki ST1, E. polecki ST3, and Entamoeba hartmanni were detected in 104/259 (40%), 161/259 (62%), and 8/259 (3%) samples, respectively. Metabarcoding and real-time PCR detected Cryptosporidium in 90/259 (35%) and 239/259 (92%) of the samples, respectively, with Cryptosporidium suis and Cryptosporidium scrofarum observed in nearly equal proportions. Blastocystis subtypes 1, 3, 5, and 15 were found in 72 (28%), 6 (2%), 176 (68%), and 36 (14%) of 259 samples, respectively. Iodamoeba was identified in 1/259 samples (<1%), while none of 37 tested samples was positive for Dientamoeba fragilis. Our results illustrate how metabarcoding exemplifies a 'one-fits-many' approach to detecting intestinal single-celled parasites in feces supplemented with real-time PCR for selected parasites. Using metabarcoding with pathogen-specific assays may help detect emerging and previously underdetected pathogens and further elucidate the role of micro-eukaryotic parasites in human and animal health and disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christen Rune Stensvold
- Department of Bacteria, Parasites and Fungi, Statens Serum Institut, Artillerivej 5, DK-2300 Copenhagen S, Denmark; (P.J.); (R.P.K.D.B.); (R.F.P.); (L.O.A.); (Ø.A.); (H.V.N.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Kateřina Jirků-Pomajbíková
- Biology Centre, Czech Academy of Sciences, Institute of Parasitology, Branišovská 31, 370 05 České Budějovice, Czech Republic;
| | - Katrine Wegener Tams
- Department of Biotechnology and Biomedicine, Technical University of Denmark, Søltofts Plads, Bygning 221, DK-2800 Kongens Lyngby, Denmark;
| | - Pikka Jokelainen
- Department of Bacteria, Parasites and Fungi, Statens Serum Institut, Artillerivej 5, DK-2300 Copenhagen S, Denmark; (P.J.); (R.P.K.D.B.); (R.F.P.); (L.O.A.); (Ø.A.); (H.V.N.)
| | - Rebecca P. K. D. Berg
- Department of Bacteria, Parasites and Fungi, Statens Serum Institut, Artillerivej 5, DK-2300 Copenhagen S, Denmark; (P.J.); (R.P.K.D.B.); (R.F.P.); (L.O.A.); (Ø.A.); (H.V.N.)
| | - Ellinor Marving
- Department of Virus and Microbiological Special Diagnostics, Statens Serum Institut, Artillerivej 5, DK-2300 Copenhagen S, Denmark;
| | - Randi Føns Petersen
- Department of Bacteria, Parasites and Fungi, Statens Serum Institut, Artillerivej 5, DK-2300 Copenhagen S, Denmark; (P.J.); (R.P.K.D.B.); (R.F.P.); (L.O.A.); (Ø.A.); (H.V.N.)
| | - Lee O’Brien Andersen
- Department of Bacteria, Parasites and Fungi, Statens Serum Institut, Artillerivej 5, DK-2300 Copenhagen S, Denmark; (P.J.); (R.P.K.D.B.); (R.F.P.); (L.O.A.); (Ø.A.); (H.V.N.)
| | - Øystein Angen
- Department of Bacteria, Parasites and Fungi, Statens Serum Institut, Artillerivej 5, DK-2300 Copenhagen S, Denmark; (P.J.); (R.P.K.D.B.); (R.F.P.); (L.O.A.); (Ø.A.); (H.V.N.)
| | - Henrik Vedel Nielsen
- Department of Bacteria, Parasites and Fungi, Statens Serum Institut, Artillerivej 5, DK-2300 Copenhagen S, Denmark; (P.J.); (R.P.K.D.B.); (R.F.P.); (L.O.A.); (Ø.A.); (H.V.N.)
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21
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Terveer EM, van Gool T, Ooijevaar RE, Sanders IMJG, Boeije-Koppenol E, Keller JJ, Bart A, Kuijper EJ. Human Transmission of Blastocystis by Fecal Microbiota Transplantation Without Development of Gastrointestinal Symptoms in Recipients. Clin Infect Dis 2021; 71:2630-2636. [PMID: 31728525 PMCID: PMC7745006 DOI: 10.1093/cid/ciz1122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2019] [Accepted: 11/13/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Patients with multiple recurrent Clostridioides difficile infections (rCDI) are treated with fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT), using feces provided by healthy donors. Blastocystis colonization of donors is considered an exclusion criterion, whereas its pathogenicity is still under debate. Methods The introduction of molecular screening for Blastocystis sp. at our stool bank identified 2 donors with prior negative microscopies but positive polymerase chain reactions (PCRs). Potential transmission of Blastocystis sp. to patients was assessed on 16 fecal patient samples, pre- and post-FMT, by PCR and subtype (ST) analyses. In addition, clinical outcomes for the treatment of rCDI (n = 31), as well as the development of gastrointestinal symptoms, were assessed. Results There was 1 donor who carried Blastocystis ST1, and the other contained ST3. All patients tested negative for Blastocystis prior to FMT. With a median diagnosis at 20.5 days after FMT, 8 of 16 (50%) patients developed intestinal colonization with Blastocystis, with identical ST sequences as their respective donors. Blastocystis-containing fecal suspensions were used to treat 31 rCDI patients, with an FMT success rate of 84%. This success rate was not statistically different from patients transferred with Blastocystis sp.–negative donor feces (93%, 76/82). Patients transferred with Blastocystis sp.–positive donor feces did not report any significant differences in bowel complaints in the first week, after 3 weeks, or in the months following FMT. Conclusions We demonstrated the first transmission of Blastocystis ST1 and ST3 from donors to patients by FMT. This did not result in gastrointestinal symptomatology or have any significant effect on rCDI treatment outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisabeth M Terveer
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Center for Infectious Diseases, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands.,Netherlands Donor Feces Bank, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Tom van Gool
- Section Clinical Parasitology, Department of Medical Microbiology, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Amsterdam Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Rogier E Ooijevaar
- Netherlands Donor Feces Bank, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands.,Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Ingrid M J G Sanders
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Center for Infectious Diseases, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Eline Boeije-Koppenol
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Center for Infectious Diseases, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands.,Netherlands Donor Feces Bank, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Josbert J Keller
- Netherlands Donor Feces Bank, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands.,Department of Gastroenterology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands.,Department of Gastroenterology, Haaglanden Medical Center, Den Haag, The Netherlands
| | - Aldert Bart
- Section Clinical Parasitology, Department of Medical Microbiology, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Amsterdam Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Ed J Kuijper
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Center for Infectious Diseases, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands.,Netherlands Donor Feces Bank, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
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22
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Ganci M, Butt H, Tyrrell J, Suleyman E, Ball M. The effect of Blastocystis sp. and Dientamoeba fragilis on psychological symptom severity in a sample of clinically diverse males and females. CURRENT PSYCHOLOGY 2021. [DOI: 10.1007/s12144-021-01700-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
AbstractHealth outcomes associated with Blastocystis sp. and Dientamoeba fragilis are disparate and controversial, ranging from health benefits, to years of asymptomatic carriage, through to severe illness. Evidence that Blastocystis sp. and D. fragilis are commensal members of the gut microbiota is growing. Despite this, little to no research exists investigating the potential effect of these protozoa on psychological symptom expression. As such, the aim of this retrospective cross-sectional study was to be the first to investigate the effect of protozoan carriage on severity of Depressive, Neurocognitive, Stress and Anxiety, and Sleep and Fatigue symptoms, and whether this effect changes as a function of sex. The prevalence of D. fragilis was significantly higher in females compared to males, however there were no sex differences in prevalence for Blastocystis sp. (data used in the current study contained ST1, ST3, and Blastocystis ST unspecified) or co-carriage of the two. Females reported significantly more severe symptoms across all four psychological domains compared to males. There was no significant interaction between sex and Blastocystis sp. carriage on psychological symptom severity, and no significant main effect of Blastocystis sp. on symptom severity compared to those who tested negative for protozoa. When investigating the sexes separately, there was no effect of protozoan carriage on psychological symptom expression in either males or females. These findings add weight to the argument that Blastocystis sp. and D. fragilis are not necessarily pathogenic and are likely to be part of a diverse gut (which is typically associated with better health outcomes). Further research is required given that protozoan members of the gut microbiota have been largely ignored in brain-gut-microbiota axis research.
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23
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Salvador F, Lobo B, Goterris L, Alonso-Cotoner C, Santos J, Sulleiro E, Bailo B, Carmena D, Sánchez-Montalvá A, Bosch-Nicolau P, Espinosa-Pereiro J, Fuentes I, Molina I. Blastocystis sp. Carriage and Irritable Bowel Syndrome: Is the Association Already Established? BIOLOGY 2021; 10:biology10040340. [PMID: 33921803 PMCID: PMC8072823 DOI: 10.3390/biology10040340] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2021] [Revised: 04/06/2021] [Accepted: 04/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Simple Summary The intestinal protist Blastocystis sp. is one of the most common intestinal parasites observed in humans, and has a worldwide distribution, being more prevalent in developing countries. Although this parasite has been described decades ago, the pathogenic potential it is still not understood completely. It has been suggested that Blastocystis sp. could be related with irritable bowel syndrome, a functional gastrointestinal disorder characterized by abdominal pain, discomfort with defecation, and changes in the frequency or form of stool. In our study, we compare a group of patients with irritable bowel syndrome with a group of healthy volunteers; no differences regarding the occurrence of Blastocystis sp. detection was found between both groups. Abstract Background: The aim of the present study is to describe the occurrence of Blastocystis sp. detection among asymptomatic subjects and patients with irritable bowel syndrome in order to evaluate the potential association between irritable bowel syndrome and the parasitic infection. Methods: Cross-sectional study where adult patients with irritable bowel syndrome diagnosed according to Rome IV criteria were included. A control group was formed by asymptomatic subjects older than 18 years. Exclusion criteria were: immunosuppressive condition or having received any drug with demonstrated activity against Blastocystis sp. within the last 6 months before study inclusion. Epidemiological and clinical information was collected from all included participants. Two stool samples were obtained from all participants: one sample for microscopic examination and one sample for Blastocystis sp. PCR detection. Blastocystis sp. infection was defined by the positivity of any of the diagnostic techniques. Results: Seventy-two participants were included (36 asymptomatic subjects and 36 patients with irritable bowel syndrome). Thirty-five (48.6%) were men, and median age of participants was 34 (IQR 29–49) years. The overall rate of Blastocystis sp. carriage was 27.8% (20/72). The prevalence assessed through microscopic examination was 22.2% (16/72), while the prevalence measured by PCR was 15.3% (11/72). When comparing the presence of Blastocystis sp. between asymptomatic subjects and IBS patients, we did not find any statistically significant difference (36.1% vs. 19.4% respectively, p = 0.114). Conclusions: regarding the occurrence of Blastocystis sp., no differences were found between asymptomatic participants and patients with irritable bowel disease irrespective of the diagnostic technique performed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fernando Salvador
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Vall d’Hebron University Hospital, PROSICS Barcelona, Pº Vall d’Hebron 119-129, 08035 Barcelona, Spain; (A.S.-M.); (P.B.-N.); (J.E.-P.); (I.M.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +34-93-274-60-90; Fax: +34-93-489-40-91
| | - Beatriz Lobo
- Digestive System Research Unit, University Hospital Vall d’Hebron, Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (Ciberehd); Departament de Medicina, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08193 Cerdanyola del Vallès, Spain; (B.L.); (C.A.-C.); (J.S.)
| | - Lidia Goterris
- Department of Microbiology, Vall d’Hebron University Hospital, PROSICS Barcelona, 08035 Barcelona, Spain; (L.G.); (E.S.)
| | - Carmen Alonso-Cotoner
- Digestive System Research Unit, University Hospital Vall d’Hebron, Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (Ciberehd); Departament de Medicina, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08193 Cerdanyola del Vallès, Spain; (B.L.); (C.A.-C.); (J.S.)
| | - Javier Santos
- Digestive System Research Unit, University Hospital Vall d’Hebron, Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (Ciberehd); Departament de Medicina, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08193 Cerdanyola del Vallès, Spain; (B.L.); (C.A.-C.); (J.S.)
| | - Elena Sulleiro
- Department of Microbiology, Vall d’Hebron University Hospital, PROSICS Barcelona, 08035 Barcelona, Spain; (L.G.); (E.S.)
| | - Begoña Bailo
- National Centre of Microbiology, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28220 Madrid, Spain; (B.B.); (D.C.); (I.F.)
| | - David Carmena
- National Centre of Microbiology, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28220 Madrid, Spain; (B.B.); (D.C.); (I.F.)
| | - Adrián Sánchez-Montalvá
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Vall d’Hebron University Hospital, PROSICS Barcelona, Pº Vall d’Hebron 119-129, 08035 Barcelona, Spain; (A.S.-M.); (P.B.-N.); (J.E.-P.); (I.M.)
| | - Pau Bosch-Nicolau
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Vall d’Hebron University Hospital, PROSICS Barcelona, Pº Vall d’Hebron 119-129, 08035 Barcelona, Spain; (A.S.-M.); (P.B.-N.); (J.E.-P.); (I.M.)
| | - Juan Espinosa-Pereiro
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Vall d’Hebron University Hospital, PROSICS Barcelona, Pº Vall d’Hebron 119-129, 08035 Barcelona, Spain; (A.S.-M.); (P.B.-N.); (J.E.-P.); (I.M.)
| | - Isabel Fuentes
- National Centre of Microbiology, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28220 Madrid, Spain; (B.B.); (D.C.); (I.F.)
| | - Israel Molina
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Vall d’Hebron University Hospital, PROSICS Barcelona, Pº Vall d’Hebron 119-129, 08035 Barcelona, Spain; (A.S.-M.); (P.B.-N.); (J.E.-P.); (I.M.)
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24
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Sulżyc-Bielicka V, Kołodziejczyk L, Adamska M, Skotarczak B, Jaczewska S, Safranow K, Bielicki P, Kładny J, Bielicki D. Colorectal cancer and Blastocystis sp. infection. Parasit Vectors 2021; 14:200. [PMID: 33853659 PMCID: PMC8048192 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-021-04681-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2020] [Accepted: 03/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Blastocystis sp. is a common intestinal protozoan found worldwide. Based on gene analysis, 17 subtypes (STs, ST1-ST17) have been identified, 9 of which have been isolated from humans. Differences in clinical consequences may depend on differences among the STs. Here, we evaluated the prevalence of Blastocystis sp. in patients with colorectal cancer (CRC) compared to a control group and assessed the relationships between Blastocystis sp. infection and sex; age; and CRC grade, stage, and location. METHODS The study included 107 CRC patients (41 women and 66 men, median age 65 years); 124 subjects without colorectal cancer or a history of oncological disease comprised the control group (55 women and 69 men, median age 63). Stool samples were collected from patients before oncological treatment and examined using light microscopy (iodine-stained smear). Additionally, PCR-based identification of Blastocystis sp. was performed in 95 stool samples from CRC patients and 76 stool samples from the control group. RESULTS Light microscopy showed that the prevalence of Blastocystis sp. was significantly higher in CRC patients than in the control group (12.15% and 2.42%, respectively; p = 0.0041). Multivariate analysis showed that the odds of Blastocystis sp. infection were fivefold higher in the CRC group than in the control group. PCR-based molecular examinations demonstrated that the proportion of patients infected with Blastocystis sp. was significantly higher in the CRC group than in the control group (12.63% and 2.63%, respectively; p = 0.023). The predominant ST in the CRC group was ST3, detected in nine patients (75%), followed by ST1 (2 patients, 16.7%) and ST2 (1 patient, 8.3%). No association was found between Blastocystis sp. infection and age, sex, or CRC stage, grade, or location. CONCLUSIONS The results showed that CRC was associated with an increased risk of opportunistic Blastocystis sp. infection, even before oncological treatment. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report estimating the prevalence of Blastocystis sp. infection in CRC patients before oncological treatment in Europe.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Lidia Kołodziejczyk
- Department of Biology and Medical Parasitology, Pomeranian Medical University, Szczecin, Poland
| | | | | | - Sylwia Jaczewska
- Early Phase Clinical Trial Unit. Maria Sklodowska-Curie Memorial Cancer Centre-Institute of Oncology, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Krzysztof Safranow
- Department of Biochemistry and Medical Chemistry, Pomeranian Medical University, Szczecin, Poland
| | - Paweł Bielicki
- Department of Radiotherapy, Pomeranian Medical University, Szczecin, Poland
| | - Józef Kładny
- Department of Oncological Surgery, Pomeranian Medical University, Szczecin, Poland
| | - Dariusz Bielicki
- Department of Gastroenterology, Pomeranian Medical University, Szczecin, Poland
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25
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Billy V, Lhotská Z, Jirků M, Kadlecová O, Frgelecová L, Parfrey LW, Pomajbíková KJ. Blastocystis Colonization Alters the Gut Microbiome and, in Some Cases, Promotes Faster Recovery From Induced Colitis. Front Microbiol 2021; 12:641483. [PMID: 33897648 PMCID: PMC8058373 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2021.641483] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2020] [Accepted: 03/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Protists are a normal component of mammalian intestinal ecosystems that live alongside, and interact with, bacterial microbiota. Blastocystis, one of the most common intestinal eukaryotes, is reported as a pathogen that causes inflammation and disease, though health consequences likely vary depending on host health, the gut ecosystem, and genetic diversity. Accumulating evidence suggests that Blastocystis is by and large commensal. Blastocystis is more common in healthy individuals than those with immune mediated diseases such as Inflammatory Bowel Diseases (IBD). Blastocystis presence is also associated with altered composition and higher richness of the bacterial gut microbiota. It is not clear whether Blastocystis directly promotes a healthy gut and microbiome or is more likely to colonize and persist in a healthy gut environment. We test this hypothesis by measuring the effect of Blastocystis ST3 colonization on the health and microbiota in a rat experimental model of intestinal inflammation using the haptenizing agent dinitrobenzene sulfonic acid (DNBS). We experimentally colonized rats with Blastocystis ST3 obtained from a healthy, asymptomatic human donor and then induced colitis after 3 weeks (short term exposure experiment) or after 13 weeks (long term exposure experiment) and compared these colonized rats to a colitis-only control group. Across experiments Blastocystis ST3 colonization alters microbiome composition, but not richness, and induces only mild gut inflammation but no clinical symptoms. Our results showed no effect of short-term exposure to Blastocystis ST3 on gut inflammation following colitis induction. In contrast, long-term Blastocystis exposure appears to promote a faster recovery from colitis. There was a significant reduction in inflammatory markers, pathology 2 days after colitis induction in the colonized group, and clinical scores also improved in this group. Blastocystis colonization resulted in a significant reduction in tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNFα) and IL-1β relative gene expression, while expression of IFNγ and IL17re/17C were elevated. We obtained similar results in a previous pilot study. We further found that bacterial richness rebounded in rats colonized by Blastocystis ST3. These results suggest that Blastocystis sp. may alter the gut ecosystem in a protective manner and promote faster recovery from disturbance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vincent Billy
- Department of Zoology, Biodiversity Research Centre, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Zuzana Lhotská
- Institute of Parasitology, Biology Centre, Czech Academy of Sciences, České Budějovice, Czechia.,Department of Medical Biology, Faculty of Science, University of South-Bohemia, České Budějovice, Czechia
| | - Milan Jirků
- Institute of Parasitology, Biology Centre, Czech Academy of Sciences, České Budějovice, Czechia
| | - Oldřiška Kadlecová
- Institute of Parasitology, Biology Centre, Czech Academy of Sciences, České Budějovice, Czechia
| | - Lucia Frgelecová
- Department of Pathology and Parasitology, University of Veterinary and Pharmaceutical Sciences Brno, Brno, Czechia
| | - Laura Wegener Parfrey
- Department of Zoology, Biodiversity Research Centre, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada.,Department of Botany, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Kateřina Jirků Pomajbíková
- Institute of Parasitology, Biology Centre, Czech Academy of Sciences, České Budějovice, Czechia.,Department of Medical Biology, Faculty of Science, University of South-Bohemia, České Budějovice, Czechia
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26
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van Kalleveen MW, Budding AE, Benninga MA, Savelkoul PHM, van Gool T, van Maldeghem I, Dorigo-Zetsma JW, Bart A, Plötz FB, de Meij TGJ. Intestinal Microbiota in Children With Symptomatic Dientamoeba fragilis Infection: A Case-control Study. Pediatr Infect Dis J 2021; 40:279-283. [PMID: 33181781 DOI: 10.1097/inf.0000000000002975] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Dientamoeba fragilis in children has been associated with gastrointestinal symptoms, like abdominal pain and diarrhea. The mechanism underlying these symptoms in children with D. fragilis remains unclear. We hypothesized that concomitant microbial alterations, which have been described in other parasitic infections, may be associated with gastrointestinal symptoms in D. fragilis. METHODS In this case-control study performed in 2 centers, 19 children referred to a pediatrician because of gastrointestinal symptoms and with a positive fecal PCR for D. fragilis were included as cases. We included 19 healthy children as controls and matched for age and gender, selected from an existing cohort of 63 children. A PCR for D. fragilis was performed on fecal samples of the 19 controls to assess D. fragilis carriership in this asymptomatic group. Microbiota was analyzed with the IS-pro technique, and the intestinal microbiota composition and diversity were compared between the 2 groups. RESULTS Microbiota of children with D. fragilis and gastrointestinal symptoms did not significantly differ in terms of composition and diversity compared with controls, both on phylum and species level. In the asymptomatic controls, a positive fecal PCR for D. fragilis was found in 16 of 19 (84.2%). CONCLUSION Intestinal microbiota does not seem to play a key role in the presence of clinical symptoms in children with D. fragilis. The pathogenicity of D. fragilis and pathophysiologic pathways underlying the development of gastrointestinal symptoms remains yet to be clarified.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael W van Kalleveen
- From the Department of Pediatrics, Tergooi Hospital, Blaricum, The Netherlands
- Department of Gastroenterology, Noordwest Hospital, Alkmaar, The Netherlands
| | | | - Marc A Benninga
- Department of Pediatric Gastroenterology, Emma Children's Hospital, Amsterdam UMC, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Paul H M Savelkoul
- Department of Medical Microbiology & Infection Control
- Department of Medical Microbiology, NUTRIM School of Nutrition and Translational Research in Metabolism, Maastricht University Medical Center, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Tom van Gool
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Section Clinical Parasitology, Amsterdam UMC, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Iris van Maldeghem
- From the Department of Pediatrics, Tergooi Hospital, Blaricum, The Netherlands
| | - J W Dorigo-Zetsma
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Tergooi Hospital, Blaricum, The Netherlands
| | - Aldert Bart
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Tergooi Hospital, Blaricum, The Netherlands
| | - Frans B Plötz
- Department of Pediatrics, Emma Children's Hospital, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Tim G J de Meij
- Department of Pediatric Gastroenterology, Emma Children's Hospital, Amsterdam UMC, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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27
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Zou Y, Yang WB, Zou FC, Lin RQ, Zhu XQ, Hou JL. Molecular detection and subtype distribution of Blastocystis in farmed pigs in southern China. Microb Pathog 2021; 151:104751. [PMID: 33482261 DOI: 10.1016/j.micpath.2021.104751] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2020] [Revised: 01/12/2021] [Accepted: 01/13/2021] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
Blastocystis is one of the most common causative agents of intestinal diseases, which can cause enteric diseases in animals and humans. However, limited data is available on the prevalence or subtypes of Blastocystis infections in farmed pigs in southern China. In this study, a total of 396 fecal samples were collected from farmed pigs in three provinces in southern China in 2016, and screened for Blastocystis by PCR amplification of the small subunit rRNA (SSU rRNA) gene fragment. One hundred and seventy (42.93%) of the examined fecal samples were detected Blastocystis-positive, and two known zoonotic subtypes ST1 and ST5 were identified, with ST5 being the predominate subtype. Moreover, gender, age and region were considered as risk factors that associated with Blastocystis infection in farmed pigs. The present study revealed the prevalence and subtypes of Blastocystis infections in farmed pigs in southern China, which provided essential data for the control of Blastocystis infections in pigs, other animals and humans in China.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yang Zou
- State Key Laboratory of Veterinary Etiological Biology, Key Laboratory of Veterinary Parasitology of Gansu Province, Lanzhou Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Lanzhou, Gansu Province, 730046, PR China.
| | - Wen-Bin Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Veterinary Etiological Biology, Key Laboratory of Veterinary Parasitology of Gansu Province, Lanzhou Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Lanzhou, Gansu Province, 730046, PR China
| | - Feng-Cai Zou
- Key Laboratory of Veterinary Public Health of Higher Education of Yunnan Province, College of Veterinary Medicine, Yunnan Agricultural University, Kunming, Yunnan Province, 650201, PR China
| | - Rui-Qing Lin
- College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, 510642, PR China
| | - Xing-Quan Zhu
- State Key Laboratory of Veterinary Etiological Biology, Key Laboratory of Veterinary Parasitology of Gansu Province, Lanzhou Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Lanzhou, Gansu Province, 730046, PR China; Key Laboratory of Veterinary Public Health of Higher Education of Yunnan Province, College of Veterinary Medicine, Yunnan Agricultural University, Kunming, Yunnan Province, 650201, PR China; College of Veterinary Medicine, Shanxi Agricultural University, Taigu, Shanxi Province, 030801, PR China
| | - Jun-Ling Hou
- State Key Laboratory of Veterinary Etiological Biology, Key Laboratory of Veterinary Parasitology of Gansu Province, Lanzhou Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Lanzhou, Gansu Province, 730046, PR China.
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28
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Ekine-Afolabi BA, Njan AA, Rotimi SO, R. I. A, Elbehi AM, Cash E, Adeyeye A. The Impact of Diet on the Involvement of Non-Coding RNAs, Extracellular Vesicles, and Gut Microbiome-Virome in Colorectal Cancer Initiation and Progression. Front Oncol 2020; 10:583372. [PMID: 33381452 PMCID: PMC7769005 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2020.583372] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2020] [Accepted: 10/22/2020] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer is the major cause of morbidity and mortality in the world today. The third most common cancer and which is most diet related is colorectal cancer (CRC). Although there is complexity and limited understanding in the link between diet and CRC, the advancement in research methods have demonstrated the involvement of non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) as key regulators of gene expression. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) which are a class of ncRNAs are key players in cancer related pathways in the context of dietary modulation. The involvement of ncRNA in cancer progression has recently been clarified throughout the last decade. ncRNAs are involved in biological processes relating to tumor onset and progression. The advances in research have given insights into cell to cell communication, by highlighting the pivotal involvement of extracellular vesicle (EV) associated-ncRNAs in tumorigenesis. The abundance and stability of EV associated ncRNAs act as a new diagnostic and therapeutic target for cancer. The understanding of the deranging of these molecules in cancer can give access to modulating the expression of the ncRNAs, thereby influencing the cancer phenotype. Food derived exosomes/vesicles (FDE) are gaining interest in the implication of exosomes in cell-cell communication with little or no understanding to date on the role FDE plays. There are resident microbiota in the colon; to which the imbalance in the normal intestinal occurrence leads to chronic inflammation and the production of carcinogenic metabolites that lead to neoplasm. Limited studies have shown the implication of various types of microbiome in CRC incidence, without particular emphasis on fungi and protozoa. This review discusses important dietary factors in relation to the expression of EV-associated ncRNAs in CRC, the impact of diet on the colon ecosystem with particular emphasis on molecular mechanisms of interactions in the ecosystem, the influence of homeostasis regulators such as glutathione, and its conjugating enzyme-glutathione S-transferase (GST) polymorphism on intestinal ecosystem, oxidative stress response, and its relationship to DNA adduct fighting enzyme-0-6-methylguanine-DNA methyltransferase. The understanding of the molecular mechanisms and interaction in the intestinal ecosystem will inform on the diagnostic, preventive and prognosis as well as treatment of CRC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bene A. Ekine-Afolabi
- ZEAB Therapeutic, London, United Kingdom
- Cancer Biology and Therapeutics, High Impact Cancer Research Postgraduate Certificate Program, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Anoka A. Njan
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Health Sciences, University of Ilorin, Ilorin, Nigeria
| | | | - Anu R. I.
- Cancer Biology and Therapeutics, High Impact Cancer Research Postgraduate Certificate Program, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, MVR Cancer Centre and Research Institute, Calicut, India
| | - Attia M. Elbehi
- Cancer Biology and Therapeutics, High Impact Cancer Research Postgraduate Certificate Program, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
- School of Care and Health Sciences, University of South Wales, Cardif, United Kingdom
| | - Elizabeth Cash
- Cancer Biology and Therapeutics, High Impact Cancer Research Postgraduate Certificate Program, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery and Communicative Disorders, University of Louisville School of Medicine, Louisville, KY, United States
| | - Ademola Adeyeye
- Department of Surgery, University of Ilorin Teaching Hospital, Ilorin, Nigeria
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Al Nahhas S, Aboualchamat G. Investigation of parasitic contamination of salad vegetables sold by street vendors in city markets in Damascus, Syria. Food Waterborne Parasitol 2020; 21:e00090. [PMID: 33241130 PMCID: PMC7672268 DOI: 10.1016/j.fawpar.2020.e00090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2020] [Revised: 08/10/2020] [Accepted: 08/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Monitoring parasitic contamination in raw vegetables used in salads is an important measure in controlling the occurrence of gastroenterological diseases, which may be life-threatening. This study aimed to inspect the parasitological contamination of some raw vegetables used in salads. Eight commonly consumed vegetable types were purchased from street vendors in the city markets. Vegetables were washed and the sediments were obtained for microscopic examination. Genomic DNA was isolated from contaminated samples. Our result showed that 34.4% of the studied samples were contaminated with one or more species of parasites. Lettuce was the most commonly contaminated vegetable type (29.5%), while tarragon leaves showed the lowest level of contamination (2.3%). The risk of contamination was significantly higher in lettuce samples in comparison with the other samples studied. Giardia duodenalis was the most prevalent parasite detected (38.6%) and was abundantly found in lettuce isolates (23.5%). Molecular typing revealed that all Giardia samples found in the contaminated specimens belonged to Assemblage B. Blastocystis spp. were the second most prevalent parasite in samples (29.5%), they were frequently detected in lettuce leaves (30.8%). Other parasites were found in low frequencies. The high level of parasitic contamination found in our study indicates an urgent need to identify the sources of contamination and to monitor irrigation water and ensure its cleanliness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samar Al Nahhas
- Department of Animal Biology, Faculty of Science, Damascus University, Damascus, Syria
| | - Ghalia Aboualchamat
- Department of Animal Biology, Faculty of Science, Damascus University, Damascus, Syria
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Khorshidvand Z, Khazaei S, Amiri M, Taherkhani H, Mirzaei A. Worldwide prevalence of emerging parasite Blastocystis in immunocompromised patients: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Microb Pathog 2020; 152:104615. [PMID: 33246090 DOI: 10.1016/j.micpath.2020.104615] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2020] [Revised: 10/15/2020] [Accepted: 11/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Blastocystis is one of the most common pathogens of the human intestine, caused by an emerging parasite, which can lead to severe symptoms and even death in immunocompromised patients. We aimed to determine the global prevalence of Blastocystosis infection in people with immunodeficiency. A systematic literature search was conducted on Web of Science, Scopus, Google scholar, Science Direct and MEDLINE databases to select all observational studies reporting the prevalence of Blastocystosis infection in Worldwide, based on different diagnostic methods in immunocompromised patients of any age and published from inception to February 2019. Pooled estimates and 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs) were calculated using random effects models and in addition, the I2 statistic was calculated. The geographic distribution of studies was evaluated and the diagnosis of Blastocystis was compared by various techniques. Electronic databases were reviewed for Blastocystosis infection in HIV/AIDS, cancer and other immunocompromised patients, and meta-analyses were conducted to calculate the overall estimated prevalence. Total68 eligible studies were included. The estimated pooled prevalence rate of Blastocystosis infection in immunocompromised patients was overall 10% (95% CI, 7-13%; I2 96.04%) (P < 0.001), of whom 21% [18-25] were in Australia, 12% [4-24] in America, 11% [6-17] in Europe and 10% [5-15], 7% [3-13] in Asia and Africa, respectively. It was calculated that the estimated pooled prevalence rate of Blastocystosis infection in immunocompromised patients was overall 10% and the prevalence estimates ranged from 0.44 to 72.39. Also, overall the prevalence of parasites co-infection in immunocompromised patients was detected as 0.024%. Our finding showed that immunocompromised people show a high prevalence of Blastocystosis infection compared to the control population. Adequate information on the prevalence rate is still missing from many countries. However, current information underscore that Blastocystis should not be neglected.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zohreh Khorshidvand
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran
| | - Salman Khazaei
- Research Center for Health Sciences, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran
| | - MohamadReza Amiri
- Department of medical Library and Information Science, Faculty of Paramedicine, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran
| | - Heshmatollah Taherkhani
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran
| | - Asad Mirzaei
- Department of Parasitology, School of Allied Medical Science, Ilam University of Medical Sciences, Ilam, Iran; Zoonotic Diseases ResearchCenter, Ilam University of Medical sciences, Ilam, Iran.
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Jerez Puebla LE, Núñez-Fernández FA, Fraga Nodarse J, Atencio Millán I, Cruz Rodríguez I, Martínez Silva I, Ayllón Valdés L, Robertson LJ. Diagnosis of intestinal protozoan infections in patients in Cuba by microscopy and molecular methods: advantages and disadvantages. J Microbiol Methods 2020; 179:106102. [PMID: 33188802 DOI: 10.1016/j.mimet.2020.106102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2020] [Revised: 11/08/2020] [Accepted: 11/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Microscopy is the gold standard for diagnosis of intestinal parasitic diseases in many countries, including Cuba, although molecular approaches often have higher sensitivity as well as other advantages. Fecal samples from 133 patients were analyzed by light microscopy and also real-time multiplex qPCR targeting Giardia duodenalis, Cryptosporidium spp., and Entamoeba histolytica, and, separately, Dientamoeba fragilis. Microscopy revealed G. duodenalis occurred most commonly (17 patients), followed by Blastocystis spp. (12 patients). In a few patients, Entamoeba histolytica/E. dispar, Cryptosporidium spp., and Cyclospora cayetanensis were identified. Molecular analysis identified 4 more G. duodenalis infections and 2 more Cryptosporidium spp. infections; concordance between microscopy and PCR showed almost perfect agreement for G. duodenalis (κ = 0.88) and substantial agreement for Cryptosporidium (κ = 0.74). PCR indicated that E. dispar, rather than E. histolytica, had been identified by microscopy. Additionally, 16 D. fragilis infections were detected using molecular methods. Although both microscopy and molecular techniques have a place in parasitology diagnostics, for parasites such as D. fragilis, where microscopy can underestimate occurrence, molecular techniques may be preferable, and also essential for distinguishing between morphologically similar microorganisms such as E. histolytica and E. dispar. Although in resource-constrained countries such as Cuba, microscopy is extremely important as a diagnostic tool for intestinal parasites, inclusion of molecular techniques could be invaluable for selected protozoa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luis Enrique Jerez Puebla
- Departament de Parasitología, Instituto "Pedro Kourí", Autopista Novia del Mediodía Km 6½ e/Autopista Nacional y Carretera Central, La Habana, Cuba
| | - Fidel A Núñez-Fernández
- Departament de Parasitología, Instituto "Pedro Kourí", Autopista Novia del Mediodía Km 6½ e/Autopista Nacional y Carretera Central, La Habana, Cuba; Latin-American School of Medical Science, La Habana, Cuba
| | - Jorge Fraga Nodarse
- Departament de Parasitología, Instituto "Pedro Kourí", Autopista Novia del Mediodía Km 6½ e/Autopista Nacional y Carretera Central, La Habana, Cuba
| | - Iraís Atencio Millán
- Departament de Parasitología, Instituto "Pedro Kourí", Autopista Novia del Mediodía Km 6½ e/Autopista Nacional y Carretera Central, La Habana, Cuba
| | - Iredys Cruz Rodríguez
- Departament de Parasitología, Instituto "Pedro Kourí", Autopista Novia del Mediodía Km 6½ e/Autopista Nacional y Carretera Central, La Habana, Cuba
| | - Isabel Martínez Silva
- Paediatric Hospital "William Soler", Avenida 100 y Perla, Altahabana, La Habana, Cuba
| | - Lucía Ayllón Valdés
- Paediatric Hospital "William Soler", Avenida 100 y Perla, Altahabana, La Habana, Cuba
| | - Lucy J Robertson
- Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Norwegian University of Life Sciences, Oslo, Norway.
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Nightingale S, Sharma A. Functional gastrointestinal disorders in children: What is new? J Paediatr Child Health 2020; 56:1724-1730. [PMID: 32468619 DOI: 10.1111/jpc.14857] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2020] [Revised: 02/22/2020] [Accepted: 02/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Abdominal pain-predominant functional gastrointestinal disorders encompass a group of chronic conditions featuring abdominal pain where no serious gastrointestinal or intra-abdominal pathology is present. The Rome IV classification system defines and categorises this group based on symptomatology as: functional dyspepsia, irritable bowel syndrome, functional abdominal pain - not otherwise specified and abdominal migraine. These conditions can impact the functioning of the child and family significantly and are challenging to manage. Although the causes of these conditions are not clear, recent years have seen an improved understanding of underlying pathophysiology and identification of effective management options for these conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Scott Nightingale
- Department of Gastroenterology, John Hunter Children's Hospital, Newcastle, New South Wales, Australia.,Priority Research Centre GrowUpWell, Hunter Medical Research Institute, University of Newcastle, Newcastle, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Ajay Sharma
- Department of Gastroenterology, Joondalup Health Campus, Perth, Western Australia, Australia.,Perth Paediatrics, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
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Lhotská Z, Jirků M, Hložková O, Brožová K, Jirsová D, Stensvold CR, Kolísko M, Jirků Pomajbíková K. A Study on the Prevalence and Subtype Diversity of the Intestinal Protist Blastocystis sp. in a Gut-Healthy Human Population in the Czech Republic. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2020; 10:544335. [PMID: 33123491 PMCID: PMC7573152 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2020.544335] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2020] [Accepted: 09/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Blastocystis sp. is a common intestinal protist colonizing the human intestine the prevalence of which varies across non-industrialized and industrialized countries. Its role in the human gut ecosystem remains unclear due to persisting gaps in knowledge of epidemiology and factors affecting gut colonization. Here, we aimed to expand the knowledge of the epidemiology of Blastocystis sp. in the gut-healthy humans in one of the industrialized European countries, including the distribution of its subtypes, the correlation between its occurrence and several factors such as lifestyle, contact with animals, age, and sex. A total of 288 stool samples were obtained from asymptomatic individuals over the entire age-range and 136 samples from animals with which the volunteers were in frequent contact. All samples were examined in parallel by PCR and xenic in vitro culture. Blastocystis sp. was detected in samples from both human and non-human hosts. In humans, the overall prevalence was 24% and eight subtypes were found; in animals, the prevalence was 10%, and only five subtypes were detected. A higher incidence of Blastocystis sp. was observed in individuals (i) traveling outside Europe, (ii) in frequent contact with livestock, and (iii) over 50 years of age. We found no effect on gender on Blastocystis sp. colonization. Summary This study provides data on the prevalence and diversity of the gut protist Blastocystis sp. and its subtypes in a gut-healthy human population with emphasis on several factors such as contact with animals, lifestyle, age, and gender.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zuzana Lhotská
- Biology Center, Institute of Parasitology, The Czech Academy of Sciences, České Budějovice, Czechia.,Faculty of Science, University of South Bohemia, České Budějovice, Czechia
| | - Milan Jirků
- Biology Center, Institute of Parasitology, The Czech Academy of Sciences, České Budějovice, Czechia
| | - Oldřiška Hložková
- Biology Center, Institute of Parasitology, The Czech Academy of Sciences, České Budějovice, Czechia
| | - Kristýna Brožová
- Biology Center, Institute of Parasitology, The Czech Academy of Sciences, České Budějovice, Czechia.,Faculty of Science, University of South Bohemia, České Budějovice, Czechia
| | - Dagmar Jirsová
- Biology Center, Institute of Parasitology, The Czech Academy of Sciences, České Budějovice, Czechia
| | | | - Martin Kolísko
- Biology Center, Institute of Parasitology, The Czech Academy of Sciences, České Budějovice, Czechia.,Faculty of Science, University of South Bohemia, České Budějovice, Czechia
| | - Kateřina Jirků Pomajbíková
- Biology Center, Institute of Parasitology, The Czech Academy of Sciences, České Budějovice, Czechia.,Faculty of Science, University of South Bohemia, České Budějovice, Czechia
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34
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Delshad A, Saraei M, Alizadeh SA, Niaraki SR, Alipour M, Hosseinbigi B, Bozorgomid A, Hajialilo E. Distribution and molecular analysis of Blastocystis subtypes from gastrointestinal symptomatic and asymptomatic patients in Iran. Afr Health Sci 2020; 20:1179-1189. [PMID: 33402964 PMCID: PMC7751524 DOI: 10.4314/ahs.v20i3.21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Blastocystis is a common intestinal parasite of human and animal hosts. The parasite has 17 subtypes, and among those at least nine subtypes (ST1-ST9) are found in human hosts. OBJECTIVE The aim of the present study was to investigate the presence of different subtypes of Blastocystis spp. among the patients referred to Velayat hospital of Qazvin province, Iran. METHODS Overall, 864 stool samples were examined by using formalin-ethyl acetate concentration method and Trichrome staining. All specimens were cultured in clotted fetal bovine medium. Later, DNA extraction and PCR amplification of 18S ribosomal RNA gene region was conducted and phylogenetic tree constructed. RESULTS The results revealed 7.9% (68/864) of the study population were infected with Blastocystis. Intestinal symptoms were observed in 61% (36/59) of individuals positive for Blastocystis, with abdominal pain in 58% (21/36) of cases which was more frequent than other intestinal signs. No significant relationship was observed among the study variables. By molecular and phylogenetic analysis, three subtypes ST1 (45%), ST2 (30%) and ST3 (23%) of parasite were identified. CONCLUSION This study showed ST1 subtype was the predominant subtype among the positive specimens, meanwhile the highest haplotype and nucleotide diversity were clarified in ST3 subtype.
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Affiliation(s)
- Asma Delshad
- Student Research Committee, Qazvin University of Medical Sciences, Qazvin, Iran
| | - Mehrzad Saraei
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Research Institute for Prevention of Non- Communicable Disease, Qazvin University of Medical Sciences, Qazvin, Iran
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, Qazvin University of Medical Sciences, Qazvin, Iran
| | - Safar Ali Alizadeh
- Medical Microbiology Research Center, Qazvin University of Medical Sciences, Qazvin, Iran
- Department of Microbiology, Qazvin University of Medical Sciences, Qazvin, Iran
| | | | - Mahmood Alipour
- Department of Social Medicine, Qazvin University of Medical Sciences, Qazvin, Iran
| | - Bahram Hosseinbigi
- Medical Microbiology Research Center, Qazvin University of Medical Sciences, Qazvin, Iran
| | - Arezoo Bozorgomid
- Infectious Diseases Research Center, Health Institute, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
| | - Elham Hajialilo
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Research Institute for Prevention of Non- Communicable Disease, Qazvin University of Medical Sciences, Qazvin, Iran
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, Qazvin University of Medical Sciences, Qazvin, Iran
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35
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Deksne G, Davidson RK, Buchmann K, Kärssin A, Kirjušina M, Gavarāne I, Miller AL, Pálsdóttir GR, Robertson LJ, Mørk T, Oksanen A, Palinauskas V, Jokelainen P. Parasites in the changing world - Ten timely examples from the Nordic-Baltic region. Parasite Epidemiol Control 2020; 10:e00150. [PMID: 32435705 PMCID: PMC7232095 DOI: 10.1016/j.parepi.2020.e00150] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2019] [Revised: 04/11/2020] [Accepted: 04/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The world is changing, and parasites adapt. The Nordic-Baltic region in northern Europe - including the Nordic countries Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway and Sweden, and the Baltic States Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania - is facing new parasitological challenges due to changes in populations of parasites and their hosts and the spread of new parasites to the region due to climate change. Some changes can also be ascribed to increased awareness and detection. In this paper, we review and discuss a convenience selection of ten timely examples of recent observations that exemplify trends and challenges from different fields of parasitology, with particular focus on climate change and potential changes in epidemiology of pathogens in northern Europe. The examples illustrate how addressing parasitological challenges often requires both intersectoral and international collaboration, and how using both historical baseline data and modern methodologies are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gunita Deksne
- Institute of Food safety, Animal health and Environment “BIOR”, Lejupes Str. 3, Riga LV-1076, Latvia
- Faculty of Biology, University of Latvia, Jelgavas Str. 1, Riga LV-1004, Latvia
| | | | - Kurt Buchmann
- Laboratory of Aquatic Pathobiology, Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Stigbøjlen 7, DK-1870 Frederiksberg C, Denmark
| | - Age Kärssin
- Veterinary and Food Laboratory, Kreutzwaldi 30, 51006 Tartu, Estonia
- Institute of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, Estonian University of Life Sciences, Kreutzwaldi 62, 51006 Tartu, Estonia
| | - Muza Kirjušina
- Institute of Life Sciences and Technology, Daugavpils University, Parādes Str. 1A, Daugavpils LV-5401, Latvia
| | - Inese Gavarāne
- Institute of Life Sciences and Technology, Daugavpils University, Parādes Str. 1A, Daugavpils LV-5401, Latvia
| | - Andrea L. Miller
- Norwegian Institute for Nature Research, Department for Terrestrial Ecology, Postboks 5685 Sluppen, 7485 Trondheim, Norway
| | - Guðný Rut Pálsdóttir
- Institute for Experimental Pathology at Keldur, University of Iceland, Keldnavegur 3, IS-112 Reykjavík, Iceland
| | - Lucy J. Robertson
- Norwegian University of Life Sciences, Department of Food Safety and Infection Biology, Section for Microbiology, Immunology, and Parasitology, Parasitology Lab, Adamstuen Campus, Ullevålsveien 72, 0454 Oslo, Norway
| | - Torill Mørk
- Norwegian Veterinary Institute, Stakkevollvegen 23b, 9010 Tromsø, Norway
| | - Antti Oksanen
- Finnish Food Authority (FINPAR), Elektroniikkatie 3, 90590 Oulu, Finland
| | | | - Pikka Jokelainen
- Laboratory of Parasitology, Department of Bacteria, Parasites & Fungi, Infectious Disease Preparedness, Statens Serum Institut, Artillerivej 5, 2300 Copenhagen S, Denmark
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Pomari E, Ursini T, Silva R, Leonardi M, Ligozzi M, Angheben A. Concomitant Infection of Helicobacter pylori and Intestinal Parasites in Adults Attending a Referral Centre for Parasitic Infections in North Eastern Italy. J Clin Med 2020; 9:jcm9082366. [PMID: 32722134 PMCID: PMC7465117 DOI: 10.3390/jcm9082366] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2020] [Revised: 07/02/2020] [Accepted: 07/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Helicobacter pylori and intestinal parasites are estimated to infect with high burden worldwide. However, their concomitant infections are poorly determined in industrialized countries, such as Italy. In this study we aim at describing the presence of H. pylori as well as the proportion of coinfections with intestinal parasites among subjects who attended a referral center for tropical diseases in Northern Italy. Methods: This was a case-control study. Screening for H. pylori and parasites was performed on stool samples of 93 adults from different geographical origin (Africa, Asia, South-America, East-Europe and Italy). H. pylori infection was examined by CLIA and its cagA positivity was determined by rtPCR. Intestinal parasites (i.e., protozoa and helminths) were examined by microscopy and rtPCR. Results: Sixty-one out of 93 patients (66%) were positive to H. pylori and 31 (33%) were cagA+. Among H. pylori positives, 45 (74%) had a concomitant infection. The coinfection H. pylori–Blastocystis was the most frequent one, followed by H. pylori–E. coli. Multivariable logistic regression showed that positivity to H. pylori was associated with having a coinfection. Conclusion: Our data suggested that H. pylori and intestinal parasitic infections are fairly common in subjects who attended a referral center for tropical diseases in Northern Italy. The high rate of H. pylori infection, and especially the positivity to the virulent cagA+, should be taken into consideration in subjects undergoing screening for parasitic infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Pomari
- Department of Infectious-Tropical Diseases and Microbiology, IRCCS Sacro Cuore Don Calabria Hospital, Negrar di Valpolicella, 37024 Verona, Italy; (T.U.); (R.S.); (M.L.); (A.A.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-04-5601-3111
| | - Tamara Ursini
- Department of Infectious-Tropical Diseases and Microbiology, IRCCS Sacro Cuore Don Calabria Hospital, Negrar di Valpolicella, 37024 Verona, Italy; (T.U.); (R.S.); (M.L.); (A.A.)
| | - Ronaldo Silva
- Department of Infectious-Tropical Diseases and Microbiology, IRCCS Sacro Cuore Don Calabria Hospital, Negrar di Valpolicella, 37024 Verona, Italy; (T.U.); (R.S.); (M.L.); (A.A.)
| | - Martina Leonardi
- Department of Infectious-Tropical Diseases and Microbiology, IRCCS Sacro Cuore Don Calabria Hospital, Negrar di Valpolicella, 37024 Verona, Italy; (T.U.); (R.S.); (M.L.); (A.A.)
| | - Marco Ligozzi
- Department of Diagnostics and Public Health, University of Verona, 37134 Verona, Italy;
| | - Andrea Angheben
- Department of Infectious-Tropical Diseases and Microbiology, IRCCS Sacro Cuore Don Calabria Hospital, Negrar di Valpolicella, 37024 Verona, Italy; (T.U.); (R.S.); (M.L.); (A.A.)
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37
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Shafiei Z, Esfandiari F, Sarkari B, Rezaei Z, Fatahi MR, Hosseini Asl SMK. Parasitic infections in irritable bowel syndrome patients: evidence to propose a possible link, based on a case-control study in the south of Iran. BMC Res Notes 2020; 13:264. [PMID: 32487206 PMCID: PMC7268507 DOI: 10.1186/s13104-020-05118-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2020] [Accepted: 05/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The current study aimed to evaluate the prevalence of parasitic infections and their possible association with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), through a case-control study. Stool samples were collected from patients with IBS and healthy subjects and were examined microscopically to detect intestinal parasites. RESULTS A total of 200 subjects were enrolled in the study including 100 patients with IBS and 100 healthy controls. The patients were selected based on the Rome III criteria. Of the 100 patients with IBS, 65 (65%) were female and 35 (35%) were male, with a mean age of 42.57 (± 4.07) years. Of these, 30 (30%) were infected with at least one intestinal parasite; the most common ones were Blastocystis hominis and Giardia lamblia. Of the control cases, 64 (64%) were female and 36 (36%) were male, with a mean age of 41.82 (± 11.75) years. Of these, 16 (16%) were infected with at least one intestinal parasite; the most common were B. hominis and Endolimax. There was a significant difference between the rate of parasitic infections between the patients with IBS and the control in particular, B. hominis and G. lamblia. The findings of the study support a possible link between parasitic infections and IBS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zohreh Shafiei
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Farideh Esfandiari
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Bahador Sarkari
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran. .,Basic Sciences in Infectious Diseases Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran.
| | - Zahra Rezaei
- Professor Alborzi Clinical Microbiology Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Mohammad Reza Fatahi
- Department of Internal Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
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Hawash YA, Ismail KA, Saber T, Eed EM, Khalifa AS, Alsharif KF, Alghamdi SA. Dientamoeba fragilis Infection in Patients with Digestive and Non-Digestive Symptoms: A Case-Control Study. THE KOREAN JOURNAL OF PARASITOLOGY 2020; 58:129-134. [PMID: 32418381 PMCID: PMC7231832 DOI: 10.3347/kjp.2020.58.2.129] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2020] [Accepted: 03/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
In most developing countries, Dientamoeba fragilis infection is an obscure protozoan infection. We aimed to determine a frequency and clinical importance of D. fragilis infection in Taif, Saudi Arabia. A 1-year case control study included patients with gastrointestinal (cases, n=114) or non-gastrointestinal symptoms (controls, n=90). The fecal samples were examined with the classical parasitological methods for intestinal protozoa, and by real time PCR for D. fragilis. The infection by D. fragilis was detected in 5.8% by PCR and in 4.4% patients by microscopy. The infection was identified more in control group (n=9) than in cases (n=3); a sole infection in 11 patients and mixed with Giardia in 1 patient. The other enteric parasites detected were Blastocystis sp. (8.3%), Giardia sp. (5.3%), Cryptosporidium sp. (2.9%), Entamoeba histolytica (1.4%), Entamoeba coli (0.9%) and Hymenolepis nana (0.4%). Our results tend to reinforce the need to increase awareness of D. fragilis infection in Saudi Arabia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yousry A Hawash
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Taif University, Saudi Arabia.,Department of Molecular and Clinical Parasitology, National Liver Institute, Menoufia University, Egypt
| | - Khadiga A Ismail
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Taif University, Saudi Arabia.,Department of Medical Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Ain-Shams University, Egypt
| | - Taisir Saber
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Taif University, Saudi Arabia.,Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Zagazig University, Egypt
| | - Emad M Eed
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Taif University, Saudi Arabia.,Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Menoufia University, Egypt
| | - Amany S Khalifa
- Department of Clinical Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Menoufia University, Egypt.,Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Taif University, Saudi Arabia
| | - Khalaf F Alsharif
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Taif University, Saudi Arabia
| | - Saleh A Alghamdi
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Taif University, Saudi Arabia
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Matijašić M, Meštrović T, Paljetak HČ, Perić M, Barešić A, Verbanac D. Gut Microbiota beyond Bacteria-Mycobiome, Virome, Archaeome, and Eukaryotic Parasites in IBD. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:E2668. [PMID: 32290414 PMCID: PMC7215374 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21082668] [Citation(s) in RCA: 113] [Impact Index Per Article: 28.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2020] [Revised: 04/02/2020] [Accepted: 04/07/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The human microbiota is a diverse microbial ecosystem associated with many beneficial physiological functions as well as numerous disease etiologies. Dominated by bacteria, the microbiota also includes commensal populations of fungi, viruses, archaea, and protists. Unlike bacterial microbiota, which was extensively studied in the past two decades, these non-bacterial microorganisms, their functional roles, and their interaction with one another or with host immune system have not been as widely explored. This review covers the recent findings on the non-bacterial communities of the human gastrointestinal microbiota and their involvement in health and disease, with particular focus on the pathophysiology of inflammatory bowel disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mario Matijašić
- Center for Translational and Clinical Research, University of Zagreb School of Medicine, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | | | - Hana Čipčić Paljetak
- Center for Translational and Clinical Research, University of Zagreb School of Medicine, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Mihaela Perić
- Center for Translational and Clinical Research, University of Zagreb School of Medicine, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Anja Barešić
- Division of Electronics, Ruđer Bošković Institute, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Donatella Verbanac
- Faculty of Pharmacy and Biochemistry, University of Zagreb, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
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Zeevenhooven J, Rexwinkel R, Tromp E, Haver B, Groeneweg M, Benninga MA, Vlieger AM. Clinical Evaluation of Inflammatory and Blood Parameters in the Workup of Pediatric Chronic Abdominal Pain. J Pediatr 2020; 219:76-82.e3. [PMID: 31987658 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpeds.2019.12.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2019] [Revised: 11/11/2019] [Accepted: 12/11/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate the additional value of blood parameters (hemoglobin, C-reactive protein, erythrocyte sedimentation rate) to anti-tissue transglutaminase (anti-tTG), fecal calprotectin, and Giardia lamblia when discriminating a functional from an organic cause in the clinical evaluation of children with chronic abdominal pain. STUDY DESIGN This retrospective cohort study included patients (4-18 years of age) with abdominal pain for >2 months. Data on hemoglobin, C-reactive protein, erythrocyte sedimentation rate, anti-tTG, fecal calprotectin, alarm symptoms, and diagnosis were collected. RESULTS We identified 853 patients, of whom 102 (12%) had an organic disorder. Sensitivity and the area under the curve of strategy 1 (fecal calprotectin, anti-tTG, G lamblia, blood parameters) were 90% (95% CI, 83-95) and 0.87 (95% CI, 0.81-0.93), respectively, compared with 88% (95% CI, 81-93) and 0.85 (95% CI, 0.79-0.91), respectively, for strategy 2 (fecal calprotectin, anti-tTG, G lamblia) (P = NS). In the presence of ≥1 alarm symptoms, the sensitivity of strategies 1 and 2 was 92% (95% CI, 83-96) and 92% (95% CI, 83-96), and the areas under the curve were 0.93 (95% CI, 0.89-0.98) and 0.90 (95% CI, 0.84-0.97) (P = NS). CONCLUSIONS To distinguish between a functional and an organic cause for chronic abdominal pain, hemoglobin, C-reactive protein, and erythrocyte sedimentation rate can be left out from the clinical evaluation as they might have no additional diagnostic yield. However, caution should be taken not to miss extraintestinal infections (2%).
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Affiliation(s)
- Judith Zeevenhooven
- Pediatric Gastroenterology, Emma Children's Hospital, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Robyn Rexwinkel
- Pediatric Gastroenterology, Emma Children's Hospital, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
| | - Ellen Tromp
- Department of Clinical Epidemiology, St. Antonius Hospital, Nieuwegein, The Netherlands
| | - Bart Haver
- Department of Pediatrics, St. Antonius Hospital, Nieuwegein, The Netherlands
| | - Michael Groeneweg
- Department of Pediatrics, Maasstad Hospital, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Marc A Benninga
- Pediatric Gastroenterology, Emma Children's Hospital, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Arine M Vlieger
- Department of Pediatrics, St. Antonius Hospital, Nieuwegein, The Netherlands
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Chey WD, Shah ED, DuPont HL. Mechanism of action and therapeutic benefit of rifaximin in patients with irritable bowel syndrome: a narrative review. Therap Adv Gastroenterol 2020; 13:1756284819897531. [PMID: 32047534 PMCID: PMC6984424 DOI: 10.1177/1756284819897531] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2019] [Accepted: 12/02/2019] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a common functional gastrointestinal disorder with a multifactorial pathophysiology. The gut microbiota differs between patients with IBS and healthy individuals. After a bout of acute gastroenteritis, postinfection IBS may result in up to approximately 10% of those affected. Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) is more common in patients with IBS than in healthy individuals, and eradication of SIBO with systemic antibiotics has decreased symptoms of IBS in some patients with IBS and SIBO. The nonsystemic (i.e. low oral bioavailability) antibiotic rifaximin is indicated in the United States and Canada for the treatment of adults with IBS with diarrhea (IBS-D). The efficacy and safety of 2-week single and repeat courses of rifaximin have been demonstrated in randomized, placebo-controlled studies of adults with IBS. Rifaximin is widely thought to exert its beneficial clinical effects in IBS-D through manipulation of the gut microbiota. However, current studies indicate that rifaximin induces only modest effects on the gut microbiota of patients with IBS-D, suggesting that the efficacy of rifaximin may involve other mechanisms. Indeed, preclinical data reveal a potential role for rifaximin in the modulation of inflammatory cytokines and intestinal permeability, but these two findings have not yet been examined in the context of clinical studies. The mechanism of action of rifaximin in IBS is likely multifactorial, and further study is needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- William D. Chey
- Department of Nutrition Sciences, Division of Gastroenterology, Michigan Medicine, 3912 Taubman Center, SPC 5362, Ann Arbor, MI 48109-5362, USA
| | - Eric D. Shah
- Section of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center, Lebanon, NH, USA
| | - Herbert L. DuPont
- Division of Epidemiology, Human Genetics and Environmental Sciences and Center for Infectious Diseases, University of Texas School of Public Health, Houston, TX, USA
- Mary W. Kelsey Chair in Medical Sciences, Division of Internal Medicine, University of Texas McGovern Medical School Houston, TX, USA
- Kelsey Research Foundation, Houston, TX, USA
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Blastocystis Colonization Is Associated with Increased Diversity and Altered Gut Bacterial Communities in Healthy Malian Children. Microorganisms 2019; 7:microorganisms7120649. [PMID: 31817168 PMCID: PMC6956266 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms7120649] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2019] [Revised: 11/27/2019] [Accepted: 11/28/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Blastocystis is the most common protozoan colonizing the gut of vertebrates. It modulates the human digestive microbiota in the absence of inflammation and gastrointestinal disease. Although it has been associated with human diseases, including inflammatory bowel disease, its pathogenicity remains controversial. This study aimed to assess the influence of Blastocystis on the gut bacterial communities in healthy children. We conducted a cross-sectional study on 147 Blastocystis-colonized and 149 Blastocystis-noncolonized Malian children, with Blastocystis colonization assessed by real-time PCR and gut microbial communities characterized via 16S rRNA gene (Illumina MiSeq) sequencing and bioinformatics analysis. The gut microbiota diversity was higher in Blastocystis-colonized compared to Blastocystis-noncolonized children. The phyla Firmicutes, Elusimicrobia, Lentisphaerae, and Euryarchaeota were higher in Blastocystis-colonized children, whereas Actinobacteria, Proteobacteria, unassigned bacteria, and Deinococcus-Thermus were higher in Blastocystis-noncolonized children. Moreover, Faecalibacterium prausnitzii (family Ruminococcaceae) and Roseburia sp. (family Lachnospiraceae) abundance was higher in Blastocystis-colonized children. We conclude that Blastocystis colonization is significantly associated with a higher diversity of the gut bacterial communities in healthy children, while it is not associated with the presence of potentially pathogenic bacteria in the human gut.
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Wang Y, Zheng F, Liu S, Luo H. Research Progress in Fecal Microbiota Transplantation as Treatment for Irritable Bowel Syndrome. Gastroenterol Res Pract 2019; 2019:9759138. [PMID: 31885549 PMCID: PMC6914991 DOI: 10.1155/2019/9759138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2019] [Revised: 09/10/2019] [Accepted: 11/07/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Irritable bowel syndrome is a functional disorder characterized by abdominal pain or discomfort associated with altered bowel habits. Due to the uncertainty of the pathogenesis of IBS and the diversity of its clinical manifestations, IBS cannot be completely cured. Increasing evidence suggests the key role of altered intestinal microbiota in the pathogenesis of IBS. Therefore, attention is being shifted to adjusting the changes in intestinal microbiota to control IBS symptoms. Fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT), antibiotics, probiotics, and synbiotics are currently often employed as treatment for IBS. And FMT is the most significant therapeutic efficacy with the least number of side effects. FMT provides a creative way to restore the abnormal gut microbiome in patients with IBS. But although current clinical studies confirm the effectiveness of FMT in the treatment of IBS, they are short-term studies of small samples, and there is still a lack of large-scale long-term studies. In this paper, we review the intestinal microbiota changes of IBS, the common methods of treating IBS with intestinal microbes, and the research status of FMT for the treatment of IBS. Finally, we put forward some opinions on the future research direction of FMT treatment of IBS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yao Wang
- School of Basic Medicine, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province 510006, China
| | - Fengling Zheng
- The Journal Center, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province 510006, China
| | - Shan Liu
- School of Basic Medicine, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province 510006, China
| | - Huanhuan Luo
- School of Basic Medicine, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province 510006, China
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de Boer MD, Schuurs TA, Vermeer M, Ruijs GJHM, van der Zanden AGM, Weel JF, Bruijnesteijn van Coppenraet LES. Distribution and relevance of Dientamoeba fragilis and Blastocystis species in gastroenteritis: results from a case-control study. Eur J Clin Microbiol Infect Dis 2019; 39:197-203. [PMID: 31659566 DOI: 10.1007/s10096-019-03710-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2019] [Accepted: 09/13/2019] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
The actual role of Dientamoeba fragilis and Blastocystis in patients with gastrointestinal symptoms is still under debate. A multicenter case-control study was performed in The Netherlands to elucidate the clinical relevance of molecular diagnostics results in gastroenteritis (GE). Samples from this case-control study were used to perform a detailed analysis on the presence of D. fragilis and Blastocystis in relation to gastrointestinal symptoms. In the present study, a real-time PCR for Blastocystis was performed on 1374 case samples and 1026 control samples from the multicenter gastroenteritis case-control study previously tested for D. fragilis. Prevalence of both micro-organisms was highest in children under 20 years of age and lowest in the oldest age group. A significantly lower overall detection of D. fragilis and Blastocystis was found in cases (both 25.8%) as compared to controls (37.6% and 40.0%, respectively). The difference for D. fragilis was statistically significant for subjects above 20 years of age. For Blastocystis, the difference was statistically significant in all age groups, except in children less than 5 years of age. A negative relation between D. fragilis-positive cases and diarrhea was found in this study population. More GE symptoms were reported in cases without D. fragilis or Blastocystis. In the present study, prevalence of both D. fragilis and Blastocystis is lower in cases with gastroenteritic symptoms than in controls. Besides, in cases with D. fragilis or Blastocystis, no association is shown between any of the GE symptoms. Interestingly, this suggests that the presence of these protozoans may be considered characteristic of a healthy intestinal microbiome.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Theo A Schuurs
- Centre for Infectious Diseases Friesland, Izore, Leeuwarden, The Netherlands
| | | | - Gijs J H M Ruijs
- Laboratory for Medical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, Isala, Zwolle, The Netherlands
| | | | - Jan F Weel
- Centre for Infectious Diseases Friesland, Izore, Leeuwarden, The Netherlands
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Wang C, Li Q, Ren J. Microbiota-Immune Interaction in the Pathogenesis of Gut-Derived Infection. Front Immunol 2019; 10:1873. [PMID: 31456801 PMCID: PMC6698791 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2019.01873] [Citation(s) in RCA: 83] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2019] [Accepted: 07/24/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Gut-derived infection is among the most common complications in patients who underwent severe trauma, serious burn, major surgery, hemorrhagic shock or severe acute pancreatitis (SAP). It could cause sepsis and multiple organ dysfunction syndrome (MODS), which are regarded as a leading cause of mortality in these cases. Gut-derived infection is commonly caused by pathological translocation of intestinal bacteria or endotoxins, resulting from the dysfunction of the gut barrier. In the last decades, the studies regarding to the pathogenesis of gut-derived infection mainly focused on the breakdown of intestinal epithelial tight junction and increased permeability. Limited information is available on the roles of intestinal microbial barrier in the development of gut-derived infection. Recently, advances of next-generation DNA sequencing techniques and its utilization has revolutionized the gut microecology, leading to novel views into the composition of the intestinal microbiota and its connections with multiple diseases. Here, we reviewed the recent progress in the research field of intestinal barrier disruption and gut-derived infection, mainly through the perspectives of the dysbiosis of intestinal microbiota and its interaction with intestinal mucosal immune cells. This review presents novel insights into how the gut microbiota collaborates with mucosal immune cells to involve the development of pathological bacterial translocation. The data might have important implication to better understand the mechanism underlying pathological bacterial translocation, contributing us to develop new strategies for prevention and treatment of gut-derived sepsis.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Qiurong Li
- Research Institute of General Surgery, Jinling Hospital, Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Jianan Ren
- Research Institute of General Surgery, Jinling Hospital, Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
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Does Irritable Bowel Syndrome Exist? Identifiable and Treatable Causes of Associated Symptoms Suggest It May Not. GASTROINTESTINAL DISORDERS 2019. [DOI: 10.3390/gidisord1030027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Significant shortcomings in irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) diagnosis and treatment may arise from IBS being an “umbrella” diagnosis that clusters several underlying identifiable and treatable causes for the same symptom presentation into one classification. This view is compatible with the emerging understanding that the pathophysiology of IBS is heterogeneous with varied disease mechanisms responsible for the central pathological features. Collectively, these converging views of the pathophysiology, assessment and management of IBS render the traditional diagnosis and treatment of IBS less relevant; in fact, they suggest that IBS is not a disease entity per se and posit the question “does IBS exist?” The aim of this narrative review is to explore identifiable and treatable causes of digestive symptoms, including lifestyle, environmental and nutritional factors, as well as underlying functional imbalances, that may be misinterpreted as being IBS.
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Establishing a donor stool bank for faecal microbiota transplantation: methods and feasibility. Eur J Clin Microbiol Infect Dis 2019; 38:1837-1847. [PMID: 31273647 DOI: 10.1007/s10096-019-03615-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2019] [Accepted: 06/12/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Faecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) is a promising treatment, but donor selection and implementation in clinical practice are difficult. Here, we describe the establishment of a donor stool bank based on the Tissue Act. Stool donors were recruited among blood donors and asked to donate five times in a month. A screening questionnaire, a medical interview and testing of blood and stool were conducted before and after donations. Donations were made at home and transported to the lab, where 50 g of stool was suspended and filtered in saline and 20-mL glycerol (final concentration of 10%) to a volume of 170 mL. The processed stool was assigned a batch number, frozen within 2 h after defecation and stored at - 80 °C for up to 1 year. All steps were documented and cross-checked before donor stool were released for clinical use. Thirteen donors were eligible at the first interview and started donations. Two donors were excluded due to a positive Helicobacter pylori test, two withdrew consent and one was lost to follow-up. One donor took a single dose of NSAIDs 2 days prior to a donation, which was discarded. There were no other excluding findings at the second interview or testing. Eight of the 13 donors were approved as stool donors. All donated five times with each donation yielding 1-6 portions. Eighty-four portions were released for clinical use. Recruiting stool donors among blood donors is safe and effective. The Tissue Act yields an appropriate regulative framework for FMT.
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Brands MR, Van de Vijver E, Haisma SM, Heida A, van Rheenen PF. No association between abdominal pain and Dientamoeba in Dutch and Belgian children. Arch Dis Child 2019; 104:686-689. [PMID: 30798256 PMCID: PMC6589455 DOI: 10.1136/archdischild-2018-316383] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2018] [Revised: 02/03/2019] [Accepted: 02/05/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To study the association between Dientamoebafragilis colonisation and faecal calprotectin to see whether the parasite is a harmless commensal or a gut pathogen. DESIGN Cross-sectional study of previously collected stool samples. SETTING AND PATIENTS Two hundred stool samples originated from children aged 5-19 years with chronic abdominal pain and diarrhoea, who were seen in paediatric clinics in the Netherlands and Belgium and in whom somatic gastrointestinal disorders were excluded. Another 122 samples came from a healthy community-based reference population of the same age. All stool samples were analysed with real-time PCR for the detection of D. fragilis and with an ELISA for calprotectin-a biomarker of gastrointestinal inflammation. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Prevalence of D. fragilis colonisation and results of stool calprotectin testing. RESULTS D. fragilis was detected in 45% (95% CI 38% to 51%) of patients and in 71% (95% CI 63% to 79%) of healthy children. Median (IQR) concentrations of calprotectin in patients and healthy children with a positive PCR result were not different from those with a negative PCR result (40 (40-55) μg/g vs 40 (40-75) μg/g, respectively). CONCLUSION Since D. fragilis colonisation is most prevalent in healthy children and is not associated with an increase in faecal calprotectin concentration, our data do not support the inference that D. fragilis is a pathogenic parasite. Routinely testing for D. fragilis in children with chronic abdominal pain should therefore be discouraged.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martijn Ramon Brands
- Department of Paediatric Gastroenterology, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Els Van de Vijver
- Department of Paediatric Gastroenterology, Antwerp University Hospital, Edegem, Belgium
| | - Sjoukje Marije Haisma
- Department of Paediatric Gastroenterology, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Anke Heida
- Department of Paediatric Gastroenterology, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Patrick Ferry van Rheenen
- Department of Paediatric Gastroenterology, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
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Abstract
Human stool contains a myriad of microorganisms, of which the vast majority are nonpathogenic and represent an important component of the healthy microbiome. The increasing use of molecular techniques has allowed the rapid identification of bacteria, viruses and parasites in human stool. This review focuses on the 3 main classes of parasite responsible for human disease, helminths, protozoa and ectoparasites, and highlights the importance of differentiating between pathogenic and nonpathogenic parasites.
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50
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Rindom Krogsgaard L, Kristian Munck L, Bytzer P, Wildt S. An altered composition of the microbiome in microscopic colitis is driven towards the composition in healthy controls by treatment with budesonide. Scand J Gastroenterol 2019; 54:446-452. [PMID: 31009268 DOI: 10.1080/00365521.2019.1599064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Background and aim: Microscopic colitis (MC) is an inflammatory disease of the bowel, hypothetically induced by an immunologic response to a luminal microbial agent. We aimed to characterize the microbiome composition in MC and subtypes collagenous colitis (CC) and lymphocytic colitis (LC) and to identify a possible microbial effect of treatment. Method: Stool samples were collected from MC patients prior to treatment, at 8 weeks (during treatment) and at 16 weeks (after treatment), and from healthy controls, not receiving treatment, at matched time-points. Microbiome composition was analyzed by sequencing of the 16S and 18S genes. Differences between patients and controls were analyzed by Shannon's diversity index (mean, standard deviation (SD)) and principal coordinate analysis (PCoA) complemented with a permanova test of UniFrac distances. Results: Ten LC patients, 10 CC patients and 10 controls were included. By PCoA, the bacterial composition in MC patients differed from controls at baseline (p = .02), but not during and after treatment (p = .09 and p = .33, respectively). At baseline, bacterial diversity was lower in MC patients compared to controls (2.5, SD: 0.5 vs 3.5, SD: 0.3, p < .05). Diversity in MC patients increased during (3.0, SD: 0.6) and after treatment and (2.9, SD: 0.5) compared with baseline (p < .01). Eukaryotes were detected in fewer samples from MC patients compared with controls (11/20 (55%) vs. 9/10 (90%), p = .06) with no effect of treatment. Conclusion: Microbiome composition is altered in MC patients. During and after treatment with budesonide the microbiome composition in MC patients was driven towards the composition in healthy controls.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Rindom Krogsgaard
- a Department of Medicine , Section of Gastroenterology, Zealand University Hospital , Køge , Denmark
| | - Lars Kristian Munck
- a Department of Medicine , Section of Gastroenterology, Zealand University Hospital , Køge , Denmark.,b Department of Clinical Medicine , University of Copenhagen , Køge , Denmark
| | - Peter Bytzer
- a Department of Medicine , Section of Gastroenterology, Zealand University Hospital , Køge , Denmark.,b Department of Clinical Medicine , University of Copenhagen , Køge , Denmark
| | - Signe Wildt
- a Department of Medicine , Section of Gastroenterology, Zealand University Hospital , Køge , Denmark.,b Department of Clinical Medicine , University of Copenhagen , Køge , Denmark
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