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Ahmed SAA, Quattrocchi A, Elzagawy SM, Karanis P, Gad SEM. Diagnostic Performance of Toluidine Blue Stain for Direct Wet Mount Detection of Cryptosporidium Oocysts: Qualitative and Quantitative Comparison to the Modified Ziehl-Neelsen Stain. Diagnostics (Basel) 2023; 13:2557. [PMID: 37568920 PMCID: PMC10416936 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics13152557] [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: 06/19/2023] [Revised: 07/20/2023] [Accepted: 07/27/2023] [Indexed: 08/13/2023] Open
Abstract
(1) Background: The wet mount staining technique is a simple, economical, and rapid method for detecting parasitic stages. The objective of the current study was to evaluate wet mount diagnostic stains for Cryptosporidium infection in human faecal samples and to compare the sensitivity and qualitative performance of toluidine blue (TolB) and modified Ziehl-Neelsen (mZN) stain. (2) Methods: The collection, purification, and molecular amplification of Cryptosporidium oocysts were performed. TolB, malachite green, trypan blue, and crystal violet were evaluated qualitatively to diagnose Cryptosporidium oocysts. The outperforming stain was compared to mZN using a quantitative evaluation and qualitative scoring system. (3) Results: The oocysts of Cryptosporidium parvum were effectively purified and utilized for spiking. TolB was the most effective diagnostic stain among wet mount stains for detecting Cryptosporidium oocysts. TolB outperformed mZN in terms of sensitivity, with 100% versus 79% at a concentration of 104 and 49% versus 23% at a concentration of 102. TolB had the most favourable qualitative stain characteristics against mZN; however, sample freshness and being a temporary stain were crucial considerations. (4) Conclusions: This study emphasizes that TolB, as a routine wet mount technique for screening Cryptosporidium infection, will provide a more sensitive and faster method than mZN staining.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shahira Abdelaziz Ali Ahmed
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Suez Canal University, Ismailia 41522, Egypt; (S.M.E.); (S.E.M.G.)
| | - Annalisa Quattrocchi
- Department of Primary Care and Population Health, University of Nicosia Medical School, 21 Ilia Papakyriakou, 2414 Engomi, Nicosia CY-1700, Cyprus;
| | - Sherine M. Elzagawy
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Suez Canal University, Ismailia 41522, Egypt; (S.M.E.); (S.E.M.G.)
- College of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, Princess Nourah Bint Abdulrahman University, Riyadh 11671, Saudi Arabia
| | - Panagiotis Karanis
- Medical Faculty and University Hospital, University of Cologne, 50923 Cologne, Germany
- Department of Basic and Clinical Sciences, University of Nicosia Medical School, 21 Ilia Papakyriakou, 2414 Engomi, Nicosia CY-1700, Cyprus
| | - Samer Eid Mohamed Gad
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Suez Canal University, Ismailia 41522, Egypt; (S.M.E.); (S.E.M.G.)
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Ahmed SA, Eltamany EE, Nafie MS, Elhady SS, Karanis P, Mokhtar AB. Anti- Cryptosporidium parvum activity of Artemisia judaica L. and its fractions: in vitro and in vivo assays. Front Microbiol 2023; 14:1193810. [PMID: 37476671 PMCID: PMC10354666 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2023.1193810] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2023] [Accepted: 06/06/2023] [Indexed: 07/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Background This study investigates the toxic activity of Artemisia judaica ethanolic extract (ArEx) as well as its phenolic fraction (ArPh), and terpenoid fraction (ArT) against Cryptosporidium parvum (C. parvum) oocysts. Methods Over a 4 months period, estimation of the total phenolic (TPC), total flavonoids (TFC), and total terpenoids contents (TTC) in ArEx; investigation of the in vitro antioxidant activity of ArEx, ArPh, and ArT; evaluation of ArEx, ArPh, and ArT toxic activity against C. parvum oocysts using MTT assay; parasitological analysis on ArPh-treated C. parvum oocysts and comet assay were performed both in vitro and in vivo (infectivity). Results The ArEx TPC, TFC, and TTC was 52.6 ± 3.1 mgGAE/g, 64.5 ± 3.1 mg QE/g, and 9.5 ± 1.1 mg Linol/g, respectively. Regarding the phytochemical in vitro antioxidant activity, the ArPh exhibited the highest antioxidant activity compared to the ArEx and ArT. The ArPh showed promising free radical scavenging activity of DPPH and ABTS•+ with IC50 values of 47.27 ± 1.86 μg/mL and 66.89 ± 1.94 μg/mL, respectively. Moreover, the FRAP of ArPh was 2.97 ± 0.65 mMol Fe+2/g while its TAC was 46.23 ± 3.15 mg GAE/g. The ArPh demonstrated toxic activity against C. parvum oocysts with a potent IC50 value of 31.6 μg/mL compared to ArT (promising) and ArEx (non-effective). ArPh parasitological analysis demonstrated MIC90 at 1000 μg/ml and effective oocysts destruction on count and morphology. ArPh fragmented oocysts nuclear DNA in comet assay. Beginning at 200 μg/mL, ArPh-treated oocysts did not infect mice. Conclusion To combat C. parvum infection, the phenolic fraction of A. judaica L. shows promise as an adjuvant therapy or as a source of potentially useful lead structures for drug discovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shahira A. Ahmed
- Department of Medical Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Suez Canal University, Ismailia, Egypt
| | - Enas E. Eltamany
- Department of Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Suez Canal University, Ismailia, Egypt
| | - Mohamed S. Nafie
- Department of Chemistry (Biochemistry Program), Faculty of Science, Suez Canal University, Ismailia, Egypt
| | - Sameh S. Elhady
- Department of Natural Products, Faculty of Pharmacy, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
- Center for Artificial Intelligence in Precision Medicines, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Panagiotis Karanis
- University of Cologne, Medical Faculty and University Hospital, Cologne, Germany
- Department of Basic and Clinical SciencesUniversity of Nicosia Medical School, Nicosia, Cyprus
| | - Amira B. Mokhtar
- Department of Medical Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Suez Canal University, Ismailia, Egypt
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Abou Elez RMM, Attia ASA, Tolba HMN, Anter RGA, Elsohaby I. Molecular identification and antiprotozoal activity of silver nanoparticles on viability of Cryptosporidium parvum isolated from pigeons, pigeon fanciers and water. Sci Rep 2023; 13:3109. [PMID: 36813872 PMCID: PMC9946930 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-30270-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2022] [Accepted: 02/20/2023] [Indexed: 02/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Cryptosporidium is a protozoan that causes acute gastroenteritis, abdominal pain, and diarrhea in many vertebrate species, including humans, animals and birds. A number of studies have reported the occurrence of Cryptosporidium in domestic pigeons. Thus, this study aimed to identify Cryptosporidium spp. in samples collected from domestic pigeons, pigeon fanciers, and drinking water, as well as to investigate the antiprotozoal activity of biosynthesized silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) on the viability of isolated Cryptosporidium parvum (C. parvum). Samples were collected from domestic pigeons (n = 150), pigeon fanciers (n = 50), and drinking water (n = 50) and examined for the presence of Cryptosporidium spp. using microscopic and molecular techniques. The antiprotozoal activity of AgNPs was then assessed both in vitro and in vivo. Cryptosporidium spp. was identified in 16.4% of all examined samples, with C. parvum identified in 5.6%. The highest frequency of isolation was from domestic pigeon, rather than from pigeon fanciers or drinking water. In domestic pigeons, there was a significant association between Cryptosporidium spp. positivity and pigeon's age, droppings consistency, housing, hygienic and heath conditions. However, Cryptosporidium spp. positivity was only significantly associated with pigeon fanciers' gender and heath condition. The viability of C. parvum oocysts was reduced using AgNPs at various concentrations and storage times in a descending manner. In an in vitro study, the highest reduction in C. parvum count was observed at the AgNPs concentration of 1000 µg/mL after a 24 h contact time, followed by the AgNPs concentration of 500 µg/mL after a 24 h contact time. However, after a 48 h contact time, a complete reduction was observed at both 1000 and 500 µg/mL concentrations. Overall, the count and viability of C. parvum decreased with increasing the AgNPs concentration and contact times in both the in vitro and in vivo studies. Furthermore, the C. parvum oocyst destruction was time-dependent and increased with increasing the contact time at various AgNPs concentrations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rasha M. M. Abou Elez
- grid.31451.320000 0001 2158 2757Department of Zoonoses, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Zagazig University, Zagazig City, Sharkia 44511 Egypt
| | - Amira S. A. Attia
- grid.31451.320000 0001 2158 2757Department of Veterinary Public Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Zagazig University, Zagazig City, Sharkia 44511 Egypt
| | - Hala M. N. Tolba
- grid.31451.320000 0001 2158 2757Department of Avian and Rabbit Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Zagazig University, Zagazig City, Sharkia 44511 Egypt
| | - Reham G. A. Anter
- grid.31451.320000 0001 2158 2757Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Zagazig University, Zagazig City, Sharkia 44511 Egypt
| | - Ibrahim Elsohaby
- grid.31451.320000 0001 2158 2757Department of Animal Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Zagazig University, Zagazig City, Sharkia 44511 Egypt ,grid.35030.350000 0004 1792 6846Department of Infectious Diseases and Public Health, Jockey Club College of Veterinary Medicine and Life Sciences, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, Kowloon Tong China ,grid.35030.350000 0004 1792 6846Centre for Applied One Health Research and Policy Advice (OHRP), City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, Kowloon Tong China
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Pinto-Duarte VA, Hérnandez-Arango NM, Marin-Gallego BJ, Toloza-Beltrán PA, Lora-Suarez FM, Gómez-Marín JE. Detection of Giardia duodenalis and Toxoplasma gondii in soil and water samples in the Quindío River basin, Colombia. Food Waterborne Parasitol 2022; 28:e00175. [PMID: 36035634 PMCID: PMC9399255 DOI: 10.1016/j.fawpar.2022.e00175] [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: 04/10/2022] [Revised: 08/04/2022] [Accepted: 08/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Two zoonotic protozoan pathogens, Giardia duodenalis and Toxoplasma gondii, are important causes of waterborne infections in the Quindío region in Colombia. No previous data exist on how contamination occurs at the source for drinking water consumed by the human population in this region. Our aim was to describe the frequency of G. duodenalis and T. gondii DNA in 11 sampling points during a five-month period in water and adjacent soil at the Quindío River basin (Andean region in the central western part of Colombia). The study employed nested PCR for T. gondii, using the B1 gene as the amplification target, and single-round PCR for G. duodenalis assemblage A and assemblage B, amplifying the gdh gene, followed by DNA sequencing. In 50 soil samples, 28% (14/50) were positive for T. gondii. For G. duodenalis, distribution was in equal parts for assemblage A (8%; 4/50) and assemblage B (8%, 4/50). Genotyping of T. gondii sequences showed two soil samples with type I strain, another two samples of soil with type III strain, but most samples were of unidentified strains. In water samples, T. gondii was detected in 9.1% (5/55), G. duodenalis assemblage A in 34.5% (19/55), and G. duodenalis assemblage B in 12.7% (7/55). T. gondii DNA positivity was associated with lower soil temperature (p = 0.0239). Presence of G. duodenalis and T. gondii was evidenced in soil and water samples in the Quindío River basin, indicating soil as the potential source of contamination for the river that it is destined for human consumption. Monitoring these protozoa in drinking water is necessary to prevent public health risks in human populations. 55 water and 50 soil samples from Colombian Quindio river basin were studied. Positive soil: 28% T. gondii, 8% G. intestinalis assemblages A and B. Positive water: 9.1% T. gondii, 4.5% G. intestinalis assemblages A and B. Soil and water are potential sources of contamination for river water that is destined for human consumption.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Benyi Juliana Marin-Gallego
- Universidad del Quindío, Molecular Parasitology Study Group (GEPAMOL), Carrera 15, Calle 12N, Armenia, 630003, Colombia
| | - Paola Andrea Toloza-Beltrán
- Universidad del Quindío, Molecular Parasitology Study Group (GEPAMOL), Carrera 15, Calle 12N, Armenia, 630003, Colombia
| | - Fabiana María Lora-Suarez
- Universidad del Quindío, Molecular Parasitology Study Group (GEPAMOL), Carrera 15, Calle 12N, Armenia, 630003, Colombia
| | - Jorge Enrique Gómez-Marín
- Universidad del Quindío, Molecular Parasitology Study Group (GEPAMOL), Carrera 15, Calle 12N, Armenia, 630003, Colombia
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Investigation of Toxoplasma gondii in wastewater and surface water in the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau, China using real-time PCR and multilocus genotyping. Sci Rep 2022; 12:5428. [PMID: 35361820 PMCID: PMC8971506 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-09166-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2021] [Accepted: 12/30/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii is a protozoan parasite, causing one of the most prevalent parasitic infections in the world. In the present study water sources of the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau (QTP), China, where the hygienic infrastructure is still developing, were investigated. A total of 214 water samples of 10 L volume, were collected from wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs), a slaughterhouse and rivers. The samples were filtered and then analysed using real-time PCR and multilocus genotyping. T. gondii DNA was found in four (1.9%) samples representing T. gondii type I; in one of them T. gondii-like oocysts were also confirmed microscopically. The approximate level of contamination of positive samples ranged between 30 and 2300 T. gondii sporozoites. The results of this study confirmed that T. gondii is present in wastewater in the greater metropolitan area of Xining and a neighbouring county. Contamination of wastewater at this level constitutes rather a moderate source of Toxoplasma infections in humans and animals. It suggests, however, a link between environmental exposure of animals, meat processing facilities and WWTPs. To our knowledge, this is the first investigation describing T. gondii detection in wastewater and environmental water samples collected from the territory of P.R. China using sensitive molecular tools.
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Zyrianova IM, Zaripov OG. 18S ribosomal DNA-based PCR test for avian and mammalian DNA identification in meat products. Vet Anim Sci 2022; 15:100234. [PMID: 35112013 PMCID: PMC8790660 DOI: 10.1016/j.vas.2022.100234] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2021] [Revised: 12/13/2021] [Accepted: 01/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Irina M. Zyrianova
- Institute for Innovative Biotechnologies in Animal Husbandry, The branch of L.K. Ernst Federal Research Center for Animal Husbandry, 12/4 Kostyakov Street, Moscow, 127422, Russian Federation
- Corresponding author.
| | - Oleg G. Zaripov
- L.K. Ernst Federal Research Center for Animal Husbandry, Dubrovitsy, 60, Podolsk district, Moscow region, 142132, Russian Federation
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Sağlam T, Düşen S, Mete E, Karaman Ü. Comparative Evaluation of Re 529-Bp Sequence and B1 Gene in the Detection of Toxoplasma gondii Through PCR in Water Samples of Denizli, Turkey. Acta Parasitol 2022; 67:555-559. [PMID: 34817741 PMCID: PMC8611623 DOI: 10.1007/s11686-021-00494-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2021] [Accepted: 11/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Purpose While Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii) infection is asymptomatic in immunocompetent individuals, it is a life-threatening protozoan in immunocompromised individuals. Its water-borne transmission to humans poses a serious public health concern. Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) has a considerable potential for the sensitive and specific detection of T. gondii oocysts in waters. Methods Comparative evaluation of RE 529-bp sequence and B1 gene to detect T. gondii tachyzoites and oocysts via PCR in agricultural irrigation water taken from downtown Denizli, Turkey and water samples collected from neighborhood fountains was performed for the first time in Turkish context. Results Based on real-time PCR targeting the B1 genetic markers and RE 529-bp sequence, T. gondii DNA was identified in 6 (16.7%) out of 48 samples collected from agricultural irrigation water. Besides, our PCR analysis did not establish any presence of T. gondii in drinking water samples. Conclusion T. gondii showed lower sensitivity in B1-based PCR than in PCR targeting RE 529-bp sequence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tuğba Sağlam
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Arts and Science, Bolu Abant İzzet Baysal University, 14030, Bolu, Turkey.
| | - Serdar Düşen
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Arts and Science, Pamukkale University, 20180, Denizli, Turkey
| | - Ergun Mete
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Pamukkale University, 20180, Denizli, Turkey
| | - Ülkü Karaman
- Department of Medical Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Ordu University, 52000, Ordu, Turkey
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López Ureña NM, Chaudhry U, Calero Bernal R, Cano Alsua S, Messina D, Evangelista F, Betson M, Lalle M, Jokelainen P, Ortega Mora LM, Álvarez García G. Contamination of Soil, Water, Fresh Produce, and Bivalve Mollusks with Toxoplasma gondii Oocysts: A Systematic Review. Microorganisms 2022; 10:517. [PMID: 35336093 PMCID: PMC8954419 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms10030517] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2022] [Revised: 02/13/2022] [Accepted: 02/25/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii is a major foodborne pathogen capable of infecting all warm-blooded animals, including humans. Although oocyst-associated toxoplasmosis outbreaks have been documented, the relevance of the environmental transmission route remains poorly investigated. Thus, we carried out an extensive systematic review on T. gondii oocyst contamination of soil, water, fresh produce, and mollusk bivalves, following the PRISMA guidelines. Studies published up to the end of 2020 were searched for in public databases and screened. The reference sections of the selected articles were examined to identify additional studies. A total of 102 out of 3201 articles were selected: 34 articles focused on soil, 40 focused on water, 23 focused on fresh produce (vegetables/fruits), and 21 focused on bivalve mollusks. Toxoplasma gondii oocysts were found in all matrices worldwide, with detection rates ranging from 0.09% (1/1109) to 100% (8/8) using bioassay or PCR-based detection methods. There was a high heterogeneity (I2 = 98.9%), which was influenced by both the sampling strategy (e.g., sampling site and sample type, sample composition, sample origin, season, number of samples, cat presence) and methodology (recovery and detection methods). Harmonized approaches are needed for the detection of T. gondii in different environmental matrices in order to obtain robust and comparable results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nadia María López Ureña
- SALUVET Research Group, Animal Health Department, Veterinary Faculty, Complutense University of Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain; (N.M.L.U.); (R.C.B.); (L.M.O.M.)
| | - Umer Chaudhry
- Veterinary Epidemiology and Public Health Department, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Surrey, Guildford GU2 7XH, UK; (U.C.); or (D.M.); (F.E.); (M.B.)
| | - Rafael Calero Bernal
- SALUVET Research Group, Animal Health Department, Veterinary Faculty, Complutense University of Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain; (N.M.L.U.); (R.C.B.); (L.M.O.M.)
| | - Santiago Cano Alsua
- Computing Services, Research Support Center, Complutense University of Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain;
| | - Davide Messina
- Veterinary Epidemiology and Public Health Department, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Surrey, Guildford GU2 7XH, UK; (U.C.); or (D.M.); (F.E.); (M.B.)
- Division of Veterinary Clinical Science, School of Veterinary Medicine and Science, University of Nottingham, Sutton Bonington, Loughborough LE12 5RD, UK
| | - Francisco Evangelista
- Veterinary Epidemiology and Public Health Department, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Surrey, Guildford GU2 7XH, UK; (U.C.); or (D.M.); (F.E.); (M.B.)
| | - Martha Betson
- Veterinary Epidemiology and Public Health Department, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Surrey, Guildford GU2 7XH, UK; (U.C.); or (D.M.); (F.E.); (M.B.)
| | - Marco Lalle
- Unit of Foodborne and Neglected Parasitic Diseases, Department of Infectious Diseases, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, 00161 Roma, Italy;
| | - Pikka Jokelainen
- Department of Bacteria, Parasites and Fungi, Infectious Disease Preparedness, Statens Serum Institute, University of Copenhagen, 2300 Copenhagen, Denmark;
| | - Luis Miguel Ortega Mora
- SALUVET Research Group, Animal Health Department, Veterinary Faculty, Complutense University of Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain; (N.M.L.U.); (R.C.B.); (L.M.O.M.)
| | - Gema Álvarez García
- SALUVET Research Group, Animal Health Department, Veterinary Faculty, Complutense University of Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain; (N.M.L.U.); (R.C.B.); (L.M.O.M.)
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Detection of Toxoplasma gondii oocysts on organic and conventionally grown produce. Food Microbiol 2021; 99:103798. [PMID: 34119093 DOI: 10.1016/j.fm.2021.103798] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2020] [Revised: 03/20/2021] [Accepted: 03/26/2021] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii infection can result in toxoplasmosis and potential psychological effects. Research commonly focuses on infection through contact with cat fecal matter or consumption of contaminated meat. However, T. gondii oocysts can persist in the environment for years and may be present in soils and on soil-grown produce. Rates of oocyst DNA recovery from produce were high, with 18% of vegetable samples testing positive for T. gondii via PCR test and melt curve analysis. Radishes had significantly higher oocyst counts than arugula, collard greens, kale, lettuce, and spinach. There were no significant differences in oocyst detection rates between samples taken from organic farmer's markets and conventional grocery stores. This study demonstrates that these oocysts can transfer to produce grown both conventionally and using organic techniques.
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Masangkay FR, Milanez GD, Tsiami A, Hapan FZ, Somsak V, Kotepui M, Tangpong J, Karanis P. Waterborne protozoan pathogens in environmental aquatic biofilms: Implications for water quality assessment strategies. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2020; 259:113903. [PMID: 32023789 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2019.113903] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2019] [Revised: 12/29/2019] [Accepted: 12/29/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Biofilms containing pathogenic organisms from the water supply are a potential source of protozoan parasite outbreaks and a significant public health concern. The aim of the present study was to demonstrate the simultaneous and multi-spatial occurrence of waterborne protozoan pathogens (WBPP) in substrate-associated biofilms (SAB) and compare it to surface water (SW) and sediments with bottom water (BW) counterparts using manual filtration and elution from low-volume samples. For scenario purposes, simulated environmental biofilm contamination was created from in-situ grown one-month-old SAB (OM-SAB) that were spiked with Cryptosporidium parvum oocysts. Samples were collected from the largest freshwater reservoirs in Luzon, Philippines and a University Lake in Thailand. A total of 69 samples (23 SAB, 23 SW, and 23 BW) were evaluated using traditional staining techniques for Cryptosporidium, and Immunofluorescence staining for the simultaneous detection of Cryptosporidium and Giardia. WBPP were found in 43% SAB, 39% SW, and 39% BW of the samples tested in the present study with SAB results reflecting SW and BW results. Further highlights were demonstrated in the potential of using low-volume samples for the detection of parasites in source water. Scanning electron microscopy of OM-SAB samples revealed a naturally-associated testate amoeba shell, while Cryptosporidium oocysts spiked samples provided a visual profile of what can be expected from naturally contaminated biofilms. This study provides the first evidence for the simultaneous and multi-spatial occurrence of waterborne protozoan pathogens in low-volume aquatic matrices and further warrants SAB testing along with SW and BW matrices for improved water quality assessment strategies (iWQAS).
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Affiliation(s)
- Frederick R Masangkay
- Biomedical Sciences Program, School of Allied Health Sciences, Walailak University, Nakhon Si Thammarat, 80160, Thailand; Department of Medical Technology, Institute of Arts and Sciences, Far Eastern University Manila, 1015, Philippines.
| | - Giovanni D Milanez
- Biomedical Sciences Program, School of Allied Health Sciences, Walailak University, Nakhon Si Thammarat, 80160, Thailand; Department of Medical Technology, Institute of Arts and Sciences, Far Eastern University Manila, 1015, Philippines.
| | - Amalia Tsiami
- London Geller College of Hospitality and Tourism, University of West London, St Mary's Road, Ealing, London, W5 5RF, United Kingdom.
| | - Freida Z Hapan
- Department of Medical Technology, College of Pharmacy, The Pontifical and Royal University of Santo Tomas, España Blvd, Sampaloc, Manila, 1008, Philippines.
| | - Voravuth Somsak
- Biomedical Sciences Program, School of Allied Health Sciences, Walailak University, Nakhon Si Thammarat, 80160, Thailand.
| | - Manas Kotepui
- Biomedical Sciences Program, School of Allied Health Sciences, Walailak University, Nakhon Si Thammarat, 80160, Thailand.
| | - Jitbanjong Tangpong
- Biomedical Sciences Program, School of Allied Health Sciences, Walailak University, Nakhon Si Thammarat, 80160, Thailand.
| | - Panagiotis Karanis
- Medical Faculty and University Hospital of Cologne, Cologne, 50923, Germany; University of Nicosia Medical School, Nicosia, 2408, Cyprus.
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First molecular detection of Toxoplasma gondii in vegetable samples in China using qualitative, quantitative real-time PCR and multilocus genotyping. Sci Rep 2019; 9:17581. [PMID: 31772319 PMCID: PMC6879479 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-54073-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2019] [Accepted: 10/24/2019] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii infection is becoming increasing problem in China but there is no data concerning contamination of vegetables intended for consumption with this parasite. The aim of the present study was to investigate fresh vegetables originated from open markets located in the Xining City, the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau (QTP), P.R. China for their contamination with T. gondii. A total of 279 fresh vegetable samples were collected and analysed using real-time PCR assay targeting B1 gene and multilocus genotyping. T. gondii DNA was found in 10 (3.6%) samples tested; eight of them represented T. gondii type I and remaining two T. gondii type II. The approximate level of contamination of positive vegetables samples, estimated based on quantitative real-time PCR (qPCR), ranged between less than one and 27000 T. gondii oocysts per sample, with majority not exceeding several oocysts per sample. The results of the study confirmed that T. gondii is present in vegetables offered in open markets in the Qinghai province, P.R. China; eating them unwashed and raw may therefore pose a threat to consumers. This is the first investigation describing T. gondii detection in fresh vegetables intended for consumption collected from the territory of P.R. China using sensitive molecular tools.
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Ahmed SA, El-Mahallawy HS, Karanis P. Inhibitory activity of chitosan nanoparticles against Cryptosporidium parvum oocysts. Parasitol Res 2019; 118:2053-2063. [PMID: 31187224 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-019-06364-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2019] [Accepted: 05/24/2019] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
Cryptosporidium is a ubiquitous harsh protozoan parasite that resists many disinfectants. It remains viable and infective for a long time in water and food causing global outbreaks. Chitosan (the deacetylated chitin molecule) was used in its nanosuspension form to evaluate its effect against Cryptosporidium parvum. The experiments were performed in vitro in serial concentrations and confirmed in mice in vivo infectivity assay. Chitosan nanoparticles (Cs NPs) were toxic to Cryptosporidium oocysts. The effect appeared to decrease the number of Cryptosporidium oocysts and altered their content. The destruction rate of oocysts was dependent on the dose of chitosan and the time of exposure (P < 0.05). Higher doses of Cs NPs over a prolonged period exhibited a significantly higher destruction rate. Using staining and light microscopy, remarkable destructive changes were observed in the oocysts' morphology. The minimal lethal dose for > 90% of oocysts was 3000 μg/ml, no mice infections in vivo were observed. The results in this study elucidate Cs NPs as an effective anti-cryptosporidial agent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shahira A Ahmed
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Suez Canal University, Ismailia, 41522, Egypt.
| | - Heba S El-Mahallawy
- Department of Animal Hygiene, Zoonoses and Animal Behaviour and Management, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Suez Canal University, Ismailia, 41522, Egypt
| | - Panagiotis Karanis
- University of Cologne, Medical Faculty and University Hospital, 50937, Cologne, Germany
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Rostami A, Karanis P, Fallahi S. Advances in serological, imaging techniques and molecular diagnosis of Toxoplasma gondii infection. Infection 2018; 46:303-315. [PMID: 29330674 DOI: 10.1007/s15010-017-1111-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2017] [Accepted: 12/22/2017] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Toxoplasmosis is worldwide distributed zoonotic infection disease with medical importance in immunocompromised patients, pregnant women and congenitally infected newborns. Having basic information on the traditional and new developed methods is essential for general physicians and infectious disease specialists for choosing a suitable diagnostic approach for rapid and accurate diagnosis of the disease and, consequently, timely and effective treatment. METHODS We conducted English literature searches in PubMed from 1989 to 2016 using relevant keywords and summarized the recent advances in diagnosis of toxoplasmosis. RESULTS Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was most used method in past century. Recently advanced ELISA-based methods including chemiluminescence assays (CLIA), enzyme-linked fluorescence assay (ELFA), immunochromatographic test (ICT), serum IgG avidity test and immunosorbent agglutination assays (ISAGA) have shown high sensitivity and specificity. Recent studies using recombinant or chimeric antigens and multiepitope peptides method demonstrated very promising results to development of new strategies capable of discriminating recently acquired infections from chronic infection. Real-time PCR and loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) are two recently developed PCR-based methods with high sensitivity and specificity and could be useful to early diagnosis of infection. Computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging, nuclear imaging and ultrasonography could be useful, although their results might be not specific alone. CONCLUSION This review provides a summary of recent developed methods and also attempts to improve their sensitivity for diagnosis of toxoplasmosis. Serology, molecular and imaging technologies each has their own advantages and limitations which can certainly achieve definitive diagnosis of toxoplasmosis by combining these diagnostic techniques.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali Rostami
- Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine Research Center, Health Research Institute, Babol University of Medical Sciences, Babol, Iran
| | - Panagiotis Karanis
- Qinghai Academy of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Qinghai University, Xining, China
| | - Shirzad Fallahi
- Razi Herbal Medicines Research Center, Lorestan University of Medical Sciences, Khorramabad, Iran. .,Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Lorestan University of Medical Sciences, Khorramabad, Iran.
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The first detection of Toxoplasma gondii DNA in environmental air samples using gelatine filters, real-time PCR and loop-mediated isothermal (LAMP) assays: qualitative and quantitative analysis. Parasitology 2017; 144:1791-1801. [PMID: 28697821 DOI: 10.1017/s0031182017001172] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii infections are acquired through the ingestion of oocysts present in the environment. However, there is no data about their occurrence in the air or about airborne transmission of these infections. In the present paper, we report on the identification of T. gondii using rapid molecular detection methods, supported by microscopic analysis, in environmental air samples. A total of 71 samples were collected, using gelatine filters, from kitchen gardens, recreational areas and sandpits located in northern and north-eastern Poland. Material recovered from the filters was analysed using real-time PCR and loop-mediated isothermal assays targeting the T. gondii B1 gene. Toxoplasma gondii DNA was found in two samples, as confirmed by both molecular assays. Genotyping at the SAG2 locus showed Toxoplasma SAG2 type I. Moreover, the presence of T. gondii oocysts was confirmed in one of the positive samples with the use of microscopy. The results showed that T. gondii may be present in environmental air samples and that respiratory tract infections may play a role in the high prevalence of toxoplasmosis in humans and animals. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first epidemiological evidence that oro-fecal and foodborne toxoplasmosis may be traceable to an airborne respiratory origin and that this may represent a new, previously unknown transmission route for this disease.
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Plutzer J, Karanis P. Neglected waterborne parasitic protozoa and their detection in water. WATER RESEARCH 2016; 101:318-332. [PMID: 27281375 DOI: 10.1016/j.watres.2016.05.085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2015] [Revised: 05/25/2016] [Accepted: 05/26/2016] [Indexed: 05/08/2023]
Abstract
Outbreak incidents raise the question of whether the less frequent aetiological agents of outbreaks are really less frequent in water. Alternatively, waterborne transmission could be relevant, but the lack of attention and rapid, sensitive methods to recover and detect the exogenous stages in water may keep them under-recognized. High quality information on the prevalence and detection of less frequent waterborne protozoa, such as Cyclospora cayetanensis, Toxoplasma gondii, Isospora belli, Balantidium coli, Blastocystis hominis, Entamoeba histolytica and other free-living amoebae (FLA), are not available. This present paper discusses the detection tools applied for the water surveillance of the neglected waterborne protozoa mentioned above and provides future perspectives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Judit Plutzer
- Qinghai Academy of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Qinghai University, Xining, China; National Public Health Center, National Directorate of Environmental Health, Environmental Health Testing Laboratory, Budapest, Hungary.
| | - Panagiotis Karanis
- Qinghai Academy of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Qinghai University, Xining, China
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Impact of environmental factors on the emergence, transmission and distribution of Toxoplasma gondii. Parasit Vectors 2016; 9:137. [PMID: 26965989 PMCID: PMC4785633 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-016-1432-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2015] [Accepted: 03/05/2016] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii is an obligate intracellular protozoan that poses a great threat to human health and economic well-being worldwide. The effects of environmental factors such as changing climate and human activities on the ecology of this protozoan are being discovered. Accumulated evidence shows that changes of these environmental factors can exert influence on the occurrence, transmission and distribution of T. gondii. This article reviews studies from different geographical regions with varying climates, social cultures and animal welfare standards. It aims to illustrate how these environmental factors work, highlighting their importance in influencing the ecology of T. gondii, as well as providing clues which may contribute to preventing transmission of this important zoonotic pathogen.
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Verant ML, d'Ozouville N, Parker PG, Shapiro K, VanWormer E, Deem SL. Attempted detection of Toxoplasma gondii oocysts in environmental waters using a simple approach to evaluate the potential for waterborne transmission in the Galápagos Islands, Ecuador. ECOHEALTH 2014; 11:207-214. [PMID: 24306552 DOI: 10.1007/s10393-013-0888-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2013] [Revised: 10/02/2013] [Accepted: 10/09/2013] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
Toxoplasmosis is a health concern for wildlife and humans, particularly in island ecosystems. In the Galápagos Islands, exposure to Toxoplasma gondii has been found in marine avifauna on islands with and without domestic cats. To evaluate potential waterborne transmission of T. gondii, we attempted to use filtration and epifluorescent microscopy to detect autofluorescent T. gondii oocysts in fresh and estuarine surface water samples. T. gondii oocyst-like structures were microscopically visualized but were not confirmed by polymerase chain reaction and sequence analyses. Further research is needed to refine environmental pathogen screening techniques and to evaluate disease risk of waterborne zoonoses such as T. gondii for wildlife and humans, particularly in the Galápagos and other naive island ecosystems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michelle L Verant
- University of Wisconsin-Madison, School of Veterinary Medicine, 2015 Linden Dr, Madison, WI, 53706, USA,
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Koloren Z. Sensitive and Cost-Effective Detection ofToxoplasma Gondiiin Water Supplies of the Black Sea in Turkey by Loop-Mediated Isothermal Amplification (LAMP). BIOTECHNOL BIOTEC EQ 2014. [DOI: 10.5504/bbeq.2012.0119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
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VanWormer E, Fritz H, Shapiro K, Mazet JAK, Conrad PA. Molecules to modeling: Toxoplasma gondii oocysts at the human-animal-environment interface. Comp Immunol Microbiol Infect Dis 2013; 36:217-31. [PMID: 23218130 PMCID: PMC3779781 DOI: 10.1016/j.cimid.2012.10.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2012] [Revised: 10/17/2012] [Accepted: 10/22/2012] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
Environmental transmission of extremely resistant Toxoplasma gondii oocysts has resulted in infection of diverse species around the world, leading to severe disease and deaths in human and animal populations. This review explores T. gondii oocyst shedding, survival, and transmission, emphasizing the importance of linking laboratory and landscape from molecular characterization of oocysts to watershed-level models of oocyst loading and transport in terrestrial and aquatic systems. Building on discipline-specific studies, a One Health approach incorporating tools and perspectives from diverse fields and stakeholders has contributed to an advanced understanding of T. gondii and is addressing transmission at the rapidly changing human-animal-environment interface.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth VanWormer
- One Health Institute, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California-Davis, 1 Shields Avenue, Davis, CA 95616, USA.
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Gallas-Lindemann C, Sotiriadou I, Mahmoodi MR, Karanis P. Detection of Toxoplasma gondii oocysts in different water resources by Loop Mediated Isothermal Amplification (LAMP). Acta Trop 2013; 125:231-6. [PMID: 23088835 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2012.10.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2012] [Revised: 10/01/2012] [Accepted: 10/14/2012] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
Human toxoplasmosis is potentially contracted due to consumption of contaminated drinking water and represents an increasing public health risk worldwide. Toxoplasma gondii oocysts can be resistant to standard disinfection processes, including UV radiation. Increased awareness of the risk of waterborne toxoplasmosis outbreaks has led to an increase in research interest in the detection of oocysts in environmental water systems. Ninety-five environmental water samples from the Lower Rhine area in Germany have been included in the study and examined for the presence of Toxoplasma. Water samples were filtered or flocculated by aluminum sulfate and purified by sucrose density gradient. DNA was then extracted, and the DNA samples were then examined by LAMP analysis. T. gondii DNA was detected in eight out of 83 (9.6%) influent and effluent samples obtained from wastewater treatment plants. All samples (n=12) from the surface, ground, raw and tap waters tested negative. The purpose of this work was to investigate the occurrence and distribution of Toxoplasma oocysts on the Lower Rhine in Germany. Our study provides evidence that the assay is a sensitive, specific, rapid and cost effective method for the detection of T. gondii and is useful for both the investigations of cases of waterborne outbreaks and for identifying the source of contamination.
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Karanis P, Aldeyarbi HM, Mirhashemi ME, Khalil KM. The impact of the waterborne transmission of Toxoplasma gondii and analysis efforts for water detection: an overview and update. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2013; 20:86-99. [PMID: 22990578 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-012-1177-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2012] [Accepted: 08/30/2012] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
The ubiquitous protozoa Toxoplasma gondii is now the subject of renewed interest, due to the spread of oocysts via water causing waterborne outbreaks of toxoplasmosis in different parts of the world. This overview discusses the different methods for detection of Toxoplasma in drinking and environmental water. It includes a combination of conventional and molecular tools for effective oocyst recovery and detection in water sources as well as factors hindering the detection of this parasite and shedding light on a promising new molecular assay for the diagnosis of Toxoplasma in environmental samples. Hopefully, this attempt will facilitate future approaches for better recovery, concentration, and detection of Toxoplasma oocysts in environmental waters.
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Affiliation(s)
- Panagiotis Karanis
- Medical and Molecular Parasitology, University Clinics of Cologne, Center of Anatomy, Institute II, Joseph-Stelzmann-Str 9, 50937 Cologne, Germany.
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Koloren Z, Sotiriadou I, Karanis P. Investigations and comparative detection of Cryptosporidium species by microscopy, nested PCR and LAMP in water supplies of Ordu, Middle Black Sea, Turkey. ANNALS OF TROPICAL MEDICINE AND PARASITOLOGY 2012; 105:607-15. [PMID: 22325820 DOI: 10.1179/2047773211y.0000000011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
A total of 70 water samples, including tap, river, fountain and well water were collected in the Ordu province, Middle Black Sea, Turkey and investigated for the detection of Cryptosporidium oocysts. The samples were directly screened microscopically for Cryptosporidium oocysts' detection by immunofluorescence test and subsequently DNA was extracted for the molecular detection by loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) and nested polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Eighteen out of the 70 (25·7%) water samples were found positive for Cryptosporidium spp. by immunofluorescence test and 19 (27·1%) were found positive by LAMP. Nested PCR products were not generated in any of the investigated water samples. A total of 16 randomly selected pellets were spiked with 10 Cryptosporidium oocysts to test the efficiency of the applied method. All the samples were found positive by LAMP for the presence of Cryptosporidium DNA, while the nested PCR assay was positive in only seven (43·75%) out of the 16 examined spiked samples. This is the first report on the occurrence of Cryptosporidium species in environmental and drinking water supplies in the Black Sea area.
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Affiliation(s)
- Z Koloren
- Faculty of Arts and Sciences, University of Ordu, Ordu, Turkey.
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Lass A, Pietkiewicz H, Szostakowska B, Myjak P. The first detection of Toxoplasma gondii DNA in environmental fruits and vegetables samples. Eur J Clin Microbiol Infect Dis 2011; 31:1101-8. [PMID: 21948336 PMCID: PMC3346938 DOI: 10.1007/s10096-011-1414-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2011] [Accepted: 08/31/2011] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii infections are prevalent in humans and animals all over the world. The aim of the study was to estimate the occurrence of T. gondii oocysts in fruits and vegetables and determine the genotype of the parasites. A total number of 216 fruits and vegetables samples were taken from shops and home gardens located in the area of northern Poland. Oocysts were recovered with the flocculation method. Then, real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) targeting the B1 gene was used for specific T. gondii detection and quantification. Toxoplasma DNA was found in 21 samples. Genotyping at the SAG2 locus showed SAG2 type I and SAG2 type II. This is the first investigation describing T. gondii DNA identification in a large number of fruits and vegetables samples with rapid molecular detection methods. The results showed that fruits and vegetables contaminated with T. gondii may play a role in the prevalence of toxoplasmosis in Poland.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Lass
- Department of Tropical Parasitology, Interfaculty Institute of Maritime and Tropical Medicine in Gdynia, Medical University of Gdansk, Gdansk, Poland.
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Massie GN, Ware MW, Villegas EN, Black MW. Uptake and transmission of Toxoplasma gondii oocysts by migratory, filter-feeding fish. Vet Parasitol 2010; 169:296-303. [DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2010.01.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2009] [Revised: 12/18/2009] [Accepted: 01/03/2010] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
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dos Santos TR, Nunes CM, Luvizotto MCR, de Moura AB, Lopes WDZ, da Costa AJ, Bresciani KDS. Detection of Toxoplasma gondii oocysts in environmental samples from public schools. Vet Parasitol 2010; 171:53-7. [PMID: 20347524 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2010.02.045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2009] [Revised: 02/24/2010] [Accepted: 02/25/2010] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
The number of Toxoplasma gondii oocysts that can be found in random environmental samples is probably low; in addition, these cysts may be confused with Hammondia spp. and Neospora spp. oocysts. The aim of the present work was to evaluate the presence of T. gondii oocysts in the soil of public elementary schools in the northwest area of the state of São Paulo, Brazil using mouse bioassays. A comparison was made between the different available bioassay techniques, such as squash, histopathology, immunohistochemistry and indirect fluorescent antibody test (IFAT). T. gondii was isolated by bioassay in mice (squash brain samples) from 22.58% (7/31) of the school playgrounds. Immunohistochemistry and IFAT showed positive results in 32.26% (10/31) and 25.80% (8/31) of samples, respectively. The sensitivity and specificity of the immunohistochemistry method were 85.71% and 83.33%, respectively. The IFAT results showed 100% sensitivity and 95.83% specificity. The presence of T. gondii was not detected in histopathological examinations. The results of the present study strongly suggest that T. gondii oocysts are widely distributed in elementary public schools in the region that was evaluated, likely constituting the main contamination source for these children. Educational programs directed at reducing environmental contamination with T. gondii would eventually lower the cost of treating humans for clinical toxoplasmosis. It is also possible to conclude that the use of IFAT in mouse bioassays can be recommended without the need for brain cysts research, which is extremely difficult and laborious.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thaís Rabelo dos Santos
- Department of Animal Pathology, CPPAR, FCAV, UNESP-Jaboticabal, Access road Prof. Paul Donato Castellane s/n, Jaboticabal, SP 14884-900, Brazil.
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Plutzer J, Törökné A, Karanis P. Combination of ARAD microfibre filtration and LAMP methodology for simple, rapid and cost-effective detection of human pathogenic Giardia duodenalis and Cryptosporidium spp. in drinking water. Lett Appl Microbiol 2010; 50:82-8. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1472-765x.2009.02758.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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Borchardt M, Spencer S, Bertz P, Ware M, Dubey J, Alan Lindquist H. Concentrating Toxoplasma gondii and Cyclospora cayetanensis from surface water and drinking water by continuous separation channel centrifugation. J Appl Microbiol 2009; 107:1089-97. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2672.2009.04316.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Detection of Toxoplasma gondii oocysts in water sample concentrates by real-time PCR. Appl Environ Microbiol 2009; 75:3477-83. [PMID: 19363083 DOI: 10.1128/aem.00285-09] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
PCR techniques in combination with conventional parasite concentration procedures have potential for the sensitive and specific detection of Toxoplasma gondii oocysts in water. Three real-time PCR assays based on the B1 gene and a 529-bp repetitive element were analyzed for the detection of T. gondii tachyzoites and oocysts. Lower sensitivity and specificity were obtained with the B1 gene-based PCR than with the 529-bp repeat-based PCR. New procedures for the real-time PCR detection of T. gondii oocysts in concentrates of surface water were developed and tested in conjunction with a method for the direct extraction of inhibitor-free DNA from water. This technique detected as few as one oocyst seeded to 0.5 ml of packed pellets from water samples concentrated by Envirocheck filters. Thus, this real-time PCR may provide a detection method alternative to the traditional mouse assay and microscopy.
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Waterborne toxoplasmosis--recent developments. Exp Parasitol 2009; 124:10-25. [PMID: 19324041 DOI: 10.1016/j.exppara.2009.03.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 226] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2008] [Revised: 03/10/2009] [Accepted: 03/17/2009] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Humans become infected with Toxoplasma gondii mainly by ingesting uncooked meat containing viable tissue cysts or by ingesting food or water contaminated with oocysts from the feces of infected cats. Circumstantial evidence suggests that oocyst-induced infections in humans are clinically more severe than tissue cyst-acquired infections. Until recently, waterborne transmission of T. gondii was considered uncommon, but a large human outbreak linked to contamination of a municipal water reservoir in Canada by wild felids and the widespread infection of marine mammals in the USA provided reasons to question this view. The present paper examines the possible importance of T. gondii transmission by water.
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Aubert D, Villena I. Detection of Toxoplasma gondii oocysts in water: proposition of a strategy and evaluation in Champagne-Ardenne Region, France. Mem Inst Oswaldo Cruz 2009; 104:290-5. [DOI: 10.1590/s0074-02762009000200023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2008] [Accepted: 03/13/2009] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
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Detection of Toxoplasma gondii oocysts in environmental soil samples using molecular methods. Eur J Clin Microbiol Infect Dis 2008; 28:599-605. [DOI: 10.1007/s10096-008-0681-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2008] [Accepted: 11/29/2008] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
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Sotiriadou I, Karanis P. Evaluation of loop-mediated isothermal amplification for detection of Toxoplasma gondii in water samples and comparative findings by polymerase chain reaction and immunofluorescence test (IFT). Diagn Microbiol Infect Dis 2008; 62:357-65. [PMID: 18715739 DOI: 10.1016/j.diagmicrobio.2008.07.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 82] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2008] [Revised: 07/04/2008] [Accepted: 07/09/2008] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
The development and evaluation of a 1-step single-tube accelerated loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) assay for the rapid detection of Toxoplasma in water samples is described. The method has been evaluated based on the amplification of B1 and TgOWP Toxoplasma genes, and it demonstrated a sensitivity detection limit of 0.1 tachyzoites' DNA for both genes. LAMP detection was evaluated and compared with nested polymerase chain reaction (PCR) in 26 water sample pellets spiked with known numbers of Toxoplasma oocysts. After DNA extraction, the detection sensitivity in spiked pellets was 100% by LAMP and 53.8% by PCR. Subsequently, 52 natural water samples of different origin were directly investigated by 3 assays: LAMP, PCR, and immunofluorescence test (IFT). Twenty-five (48%) of 52 have been found positive for Toxoplasma DNA by LAMP, whereas nested PCR products were generated in 7 of 52 (13.5%) water samples. All 52 water samples were negative for Toxoplasma by IFT. These data clearly indicate LAMP as a rapid, specific, and sensitive tool for the detection of Toxoplasma contamination in water samples.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isaia Sotiriadou
- National Research Center for Protozoan Diseases, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro, Hokkaido 080-8555, Japan
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Meireles LR, Tsutsui VS, Carmo CVD, Galisteo Jr. AJ, Hiramoto RM, Terentowicz HCK, Andrade Júnior HFD. Quantitative toxoplasma gondii oocyst detection by a modified Kato Katz test using Kinyoun staining (KKK) in ME49 strain experimentally infected cats. Rev Inst Med Trop Sao Paulo 2008; 50:187-90. [DOI: 10.1590/s0036-46652008000300010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2007] [Accepted: 04/07/2008] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
We detected Toxoplasma gondii oocysts in feces of experimentally infected cats, using a Kato Katz approach with subsequent Kinyoun staining. Animals serologically negative to T. gondii were infected orally with 5x10² mice brain cysts of ME49 strain. Feces were collected daily from the 3rd to the 30th day after challenge. Oocysts were detected by qualitative sugar flotation and the quantitative modified Kato Katz stained by Kinyoun (KKK). In the experimentally infected cats, oocysts were detected from the 7th to 15th day through sugar flotation technique, but oocysts were found in KKK from the 6th to 16th day, being sensitive for a larger period, with permanent documentation. The peak of oocysts excretion occurred between the 8th to 11th days after challenge, before any serological positive result. KKK could be used in the screening and quantification of oocysts excretion in feces of suspected animals, with reduced handling of infective material, decreasing the possibility of environmental and operator contamination.
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Surveillance and monitoring of Toxoplasma in humans, food and animals - Scientific Opinion of the Panel on Biological Hazards. EFSA J 2007. [DOI: 10.2903/j.efsa.2007.583] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
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Karanis P, Thekisoe O, Kiouptsi K, Ongerth J, Igarashi I, Inoue N. Development and preliminary evaluation of a loop-mediated isothermal amplification procedure for sensitive detection of cryptosporidium oocysts in fecal and water samples. Appl Environ Microbiol 2007; 73:5660-2. [PMID: 17616628 PMCID: PMC2042060 DOI: 10.1128/aem.01152-07] [Citation(s) in RCA: 95] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2007] [Accepted: 06/26/2007] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
A loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) procedure for the detection of Cryptosporidium in environmental and fecal samples was developed and evaluated. This is the first demonstration of LAMP applied to detection of Cryptosporidium. Due to its specificity and simplicity, the method could become a useful diagnostic tool for epidemiologic studies of Cryptosporidium presence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Panagiotis Karanis
- National Research Center for Protozoan Diseases, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro, Hokkaido, Hokkaido 080-8555, Japan.
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Dumètre A, Dardé ML. Detection of Toxoplasma gondii in water by an immunomagnetic separation method targeting the sporocysts. Parasitol Res 2007; 101:989-96. [PMID: 17530288 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-007-0573-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2007] [Accepted: 05/02/2007] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
An immunomagnetic separation (IMS) method was developed to detect Toxoplasma gondii in fresh waters by using the monoclonal antibody 4B6 targeting the sporocyst wall of T. gondii, Hammondia hammondi, Hammondia heydorni, and Neospora caninum. Water concentrates obtained by filtering 10- to 20-l samples samples were spiked with Toxoplasma oocysts, sonicated to release the sporocysts, and analyzed by IMS-4B6. Mean sporocyst recoveries were 74.5 +/- 5.3% in drinking water, 30.6 +/- 2.4 and 37.1 +/- 3.2% in surface waters, and 81.6 +/- 2.1% in IMS buffer. Then, this IMS method was integrated in a multistep procedure (i.e., filtration, IMS, immunofluorescence and autofluorescence) to detect Toxoplasma in unspiked and spiked water samples (10-30 l) of various qualities. Sporocyst recoveries ranged from 14.4 to 44.7% in drinking water samples spiked with 1-10 oocysts/l, and from 17.8 to 32.5% in surface water samples spiked with 10 oocysts/l. Sporocysts were not detected in 25 unspiked water samples. A sporocyst-like structure was seen in one of these unspiked samples, but its coccidian nature could not be proved by three polymerase chain reaction (PCR) methods targeting sequences of coccidian small and large subunit rRNA genes and Toxoplasma repetitive elements. In conclusion, IMS-4B6 is relevant for the detection of Toxoplasma in water generating small concentrates (<1 ml). Due to 4B6 cross-reactions, a PCR would be useful to further characterize coccidian sporocysts found microscopically.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aurélien Dumètre
- Faculté de Médecine, EA3174 Neuroparasitologie et Neuroépidémiologie Tropicale, Limoges, France
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