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Morán P, Serrano-Vázquez A, Rojas-Velázquez L, González E, Pérez-Juárez H, Hernández EG, Padilla MDLA, Zaragoza ME, Portillo-Bobadilla T, Ramiro M, Ximénez C. Amoebiasis: Advances in Diagnosis, Treatment, Immunology Features and the Interaction with the Intestinal Ecosystem. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:11755. [PMID: 37511519 PMCID: PMC10380210 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241411755] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2023] [Revised: 07/12/2023] [Accepted: 07/19/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
This review of human amoebiasis is based on the most current knowledge of pathogenesis, diagnosis, treatment, and Entamoeba/microbiota interactions. The most relevant findings during this last decade about the Entamoeba parasite and the disease are related to the possibility of culturing trophozoites of different isolates from infected individuals that allowed the characterization of the multiple pathogenic mechanisms of the parasite and the understanding of the host-parasite relationship in the human. Second, the considerable advances in molecular biology and genetics help us to analyze the genome of Entamoeba, their genetic diversity, and the association of specific genotypes with the different amoebic forms of human amoebiasis. Based on this knowledge, culture and/or molecular diagnostic strategies are now available to determine the Entamoeba species and genotype responsible for invasive intestinal or extraintestinal amoebiasis cases. Likewise, the extensive knowledge of the immune response in amoebiasis with the appearance of new technologies made it possible to design diagnostic tools now available worldwide. Finally, the understanding of the interaction between the Entamoeba species and the intestinal microbiota aids the understanding of the ecology of this parasite in the human environment. These relevant findings will be discussed in this review.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patricia Morán
- Laboratorio de Inmunología, Unidad de Investigación en Medicina Experimental, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), Ciudad de México 06726, Mexico
| | - Angélica Serrano-Vázquez
- Laboratorio de Inmunología, Unidad de Investigación en Medicina Experimental, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), Ciudad de México 06726, Mexico
| | - Liliana Rojas-Velázquez
- Laboratorio de Inmunología, Unidad de Investigación en Medicina Experimental, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), Ciudad de México 06726, Mexico
| | - Enrique González
- Laboratorio de Inmunología, Unidad de Investigación en Medicina Experimental, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), Ciudad de México 06726, Mexico
| | - Horacio Pérez-Juárez
- Laboratorio de Inmunología, Unidad de Investigación en Medicina Experimental, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), Ciudad de México 06726, Mexico
| | - Eric G Hernández
- Laboratorio de Inmunología, Unidad de Investigación en Medicina Experimental, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), Ciudad de México 06726, Mexico
| | - Maria de Los Angeles Padilla
- Laboratorio de Inmunología, Unidad de Investigación en Medicina Experimental, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), Ciudad de México 06726, Mexico
| | - Martha E Zaragoza
- Laboratorio de Inmunología, Unidad de Investigación en Medicina Experimental, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), Ciudad de México 06726, Mexico
| | - Tobías Portillo-Bobadilla
- Unidad de Bioinformática, Bioestadística y Biología Computacional, Red de Apoyo a la Investigación, Coordinación de la Investigación Científica, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM)-Instituto Nacional de Ciencias Médicas y Nutrición Salvador Zubirán, Ciudad de México 14080, Mexico
| | - Manuel Ramiro
- División de Estudios de Posgrado, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), Ciudad de México 04510, Mexico
| | - Cecilia Ximénez
- Laboratorio de Inmunología, Unidad de Investigación en Medicina Experimental, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), Ciudad de México 06726, Mexico
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Khelaifia S, Virginie P, Belkacemi S, Tassery H, Terrer E, Aboudharam G. Culturing the Human Oral Microbiota, Updating Methodologies and Cultivation Techniques. Microorganisms 2023; 11:microorganisms11040836. [PMID: 37110259 PMCID: PMC10143722 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms11040836] [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: 01/24/2023] [Revised: 03/16/2023] [Accepted: 03/23/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Recent years have been marked by a paradigm shift in the study of the human microbiota, with a re-emergence of culture-dependent approaches. Numerous studies have been devoted to the human microbiota, while studies on the oral microbiota still remain limited. Indeed, various techniques described in the literature may enable an exhaustive study of the microbial composition of a complex ecosystem. In this article, we report different methodologies and culture media described in the literature that can be applied to study the oral microbiota by culture. We report on specific methodologies for targeted culture and specific culture techniques and selection methodologies for cultivating members of the three kingdoms of life commonly found in the human oral cavity, namely, eukaryota, bacteria and archaea. This bibliographic review aims to bring together the various techniques described in the literature, enabling a comprehensive study of the oral microbiota in order to demonstrate its involvement in oral health and diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saber Khelaifia
- Institut Hospitalo-Universitaire Méditerranée-Infection, Aix-Marseille Univ, IRD, MEPHI, AP-HM, 19-21 Boulevard Jean Moulin, 13385 Marseille CEDEX 05, France
- Ecole de Médecine Dentaire, 27 Boulevard Jean Moulin, 13385 Marseille CEDEX 05, France
| | - Pilliol Virginie
- Institut Hospitalo-Universitaire Méditerranée-Infection, Aix-Marseille Univ, IRD, MEPHI, AP-HM, 19-21 Boulevard Jean Moulin, 13385 Marseille CEDEX 05, France
- Ecole de Médecine Dentaire, 27 Boulevard Jean Moulin, 13385 Marseille CEDEX 05, France
| | - Souad Belkacemi
- Institut Hospitalo-Universitaire Méditerranée-Infection, Aix-Marseille Univ, IRD, MEPHI, AP-HM, 19-21 Boulevard Jean Moulin, 13385 Marseille CEDEX 05, France
| | - Herve Tassery
- Ecole de Médecine Dentaire, 27 Boulevard Jean Moulin, 13385 Marseille CEDEX 05, France
| | - Elodie Terrer
- Institut Hospitalo-Universitaire Méditerranée-Infection, Aix-Marseille Univ, IRD, MEPHI, AP-HM, 19-21 Boulevard Jean Moulin, 13385 Marseille CEDEX 05, France
- Ecole de Médecine Dentaire, 27 Boulevard Jean Moulin, 13385 Marseille CEDEX 05, France
| | - Gérard Aboudharam
- Institut Hospitalo-Universitaire Méditerranée-Infection, Aix-Marseille Univ, IRD, MEPHI, AP-HM, 19-21 Boulevard Jean Moulin, 13385 Marseille CEDEX 05, France
- Ecole de Médecine Dentaire, 27 Boulevard Jean Moulin, 13385 Marseille CEDEX 05, France
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Wang P, Li S, Zou Y, Han RY, Wang P, Song DP, Wang CB, Chen XQ. Molecular Characterization of Entamoeba spp. in Pigs with Diarrhea in Southern China. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:ani12141764. [PMID: 35883310 PMCID: PMC9311668 DOI: 10.3390/ani12141764] [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: 06/12/2022] [Revised: 07/04/2022] [Accepted: 07/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Entamoeba spp. is a common zoonotic intestinal protozoan that can parasitize most vertebrates, including humans and pigs, causing severe intestinal diseases and posing a serious threat to public health. However, the available data on Entamoeba spp. infection in pigs are relatively limited in China. To characterize the infection of Entamoeba spp. within pigs in southern China, 1254 fecal samples of diarrheic pigs were collected from 37 intensive pig farms in Hunan, Jiangxi and Fujian provinces and the infection of Entamoeba spp. was investigated based on the small subunit rRNA (SSU rRNA) gene. The overall infection rate of Entamoeba spp. was 58.4% (732/1254), including 38.4% (118/307) in suckling piglets, 51.2% (153/299) in weaned piglets, 57.9% (55/95) in fattening pigs and 73.4% (406/553) in sows, respectively. Moreover, age and the sampling cities in Jiangxi and Fujian provinces were found to be the key factors influencing the infection of Entamoeba spp. (p < 0.05). Two subtypes (ST1 and ST3) with a zoonotic potential of Entamoeba polecki and Entamoeba suis were detected in all age groups of pigs and all sampling areas, with the predominant species and predominant subtype being E. polecki (91.3%, 668/732) and E. polecki ST1 (573/668), respectively, and E. polecki ST1 + E. polecki ST3 (78.6%, 239/304) being the most frequently detected form of mixed infection. Severe Entamoeba spp. infection and zoonotic subtypes were found in this study, exposing a large public health problem in the study area, and strategies need to be implemented to eliminate the risk in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pei Wang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Jiangxi Agricultural University, Nanchang 330045, China; (P.W.); (S.L.); (R.-Y.H.); (P.W.); (D.-P.S.); (C.-B.W.)
- 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 730046, China;
| | - Sen Li
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Jiangxi Agricultural University, Nanchang 330045, China; (P.W.); (S.L.); (R.-Y.H.); (P.W.); (D.-P.S.); (C.-B.W.)
- 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 730046, China;
| | - 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 730046, China;
| | - Ru-Yi Han
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Jiangxi Agricultural University, Nanchang 330045, China; (P.W.); (S.L.); (R.-Y.H.); (P.W.); (D.-P.S.); (C.-B.W.)
| | - Ping Wang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Jiangxi Agricultural University, Nanchang 330045, China; (P.W.); (S.L.); (R.-Y.H.); (P.W.); (D.-P.S.); (C.-B.W.)
| | - De-Ping Song
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Jiangxi Agricultural University, Nanchang 330045, China; (P.W.); (S.L.); (R.-Y.H.); (P.W.); (D.-P.S.); (C.-B.W.)
| | - Cheng-Bin Wang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Jiangxi Agricultural University, Nanchang 330045, China; (P.W.); (S.L.); (R.-Y.H.); (P.W.); (D.-P.S.); (C.-B.W.)
| | - Xiao-Qing Chen
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Jiangxi Agricultural University, Nanchang 330045, China; (P.W.); (S.L.); (R.-Y.H.); (P.W.); (D.-P.S.); (C.-B.W.)
- 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 730046, China;
- Correspondence:
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Elmallawany MA, EL-Dardiry MA, Nahnoush RK, Akmal M, Afife AA, Badr MS. Structural and Genetic Diversity of Entamoeba gingivalis Trophozoites Isolated from Diseased and Healthy Periodontal Sites. Open Access Maced J Med Sci 2022. [DOI: 10.3889/oamjms.2022.8713] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND: At present, there is little documented about the variability aspects of Entamoeba gingivalis (E. gingivalis) in relation to periodontal diseases. This is perhaps due to several specialists rejecting the notion that E. gingivalis can cause periodontal disease.
AIM: The aim of the present study was to compare the morphological and genetic variability within trophozoites isolated from diseased (n = 26) and healthy periodontal sites (n = 14).
METHODS: Detailed microscopic analyses were performed, in addition to post real-time polymerase chain reaction 18S-SSU rRNA gene scanning technology, using reference synthetic genes to analyze melting curve features from different isolates.
RESULTS: All trophozoites isolated from diseased sites were significantly larger in size than those isolated from healthy sites. In addition, they were found in clusters, containing many leukophagocytosis and in a significantly higher number than those from healthy sites. Gene scanning revealed diversity within the isolates with a significantly higher number of mutant forms (18 out of 26) within the trophozoites isolated from diseased sites, 14 of them were of unknown origin. Four melting curves matched E. gingivalis H57 strain and the remaining eight were related to the wild strain (ATCC-30927). Isolates from healthy sites corresponded to the wild type (12 out of 14) with only two related to H57 strain.
CONCLUSION: The study confirmed morphological and genetic variability between different isolates; We still recommend further in-depth molecular studies to investigate the role of this oral protozoan in the pathogenicity of periodontal affection. The study highlighted the importance of real engagement of multidisciplinary diagnostic strategies, involving experts from variable medical fields to reach truthful scientific outcomes concerning the association of certain microorganism to particular diseases or disorders.
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Calegar DA, Monteiro KJL, Bacelar PAA, Evangelista BBC, Almeida MM, Dos Santos JP, Boia MN, Coronato-Nunes B, Jaeger LH, Carvalho-Costa FA. Epidemiology, species composition and genetic diversity of tetra- and octonucleated Entamoeba spp. in different Brazilian biomes. Parasit Vectors 2021; 14:160. [PMID: 33731176 PMCID: PMC7968159 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-021-04672-y] [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: 12/01/2020] [Accepted: 03/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Entamoeba species harbored by humans have different degrees of pathogenicity. The present study explores the intra- and interspecific diversity, phylogenetic relationships, prevalence and distribution of tetra- and octonucleated cyst-producing Entamoeba in different Brazilian regions. Methods Cross-sectional studies were performed to collect fecal samples (n = 1728) and sociodemographic data in communities located in four Brazilian biomes: Atlantic Forest, Caatinga, Cerrado, and Amazon. Fecal samples were subjected to molecular analysis by partial small subunit ribosomal DNA sequencing (SSU rDNA) and phylogenetic analysis. Results Light microscopy analysis revealed that tetranucleated cysts were found in all the studied biomes. The highest positivity rates were observed in the age group 6–10 years (23.21%). For octonucleated cysts, positivity rates ranged from 1 to 55.1%. Sixty SSU rDNA Entamoeba sequences were obtained, and four different species were identified: the octonucleated E. coli, and the tetranucleated E. histolytica, E. dispar, and E. hartmanni. Novel haplotypes (n = 32) were characterized; however, new ribosomal lineages were not identified. The Entamoeba coli ST1 subtype predominated in Atlantic Forest and Caatinga, and the ST2 subtype was predominant in the Amazon biome. E. histolytica was detected only in the Amazon biome. In phylogenetic trees, sequences were grouped in two groups, the first containing uni- and tetranucleated and the second containing uni- and octonucleated cyst-producing Entamoeba species. Molecular diversity indexes revealed a high interspecific diversity for tetra- and octonucleated Entamoeba spp. (H ± SD = 0.9625 ± 0.0126). The intraspecific diversity varied according to species or subtype: E. dispar and E. histolytica showed lower diversity than E. coli subtypes ST1 and ST2 and E. hartmanni. Conclusions Tetra- and octonucleated cyst-producing Entamoeba are endemic in the studied communities; E. histolytica was found in a low proportion and only in the Amazon biome. With regard to E. coli, subtype ST2 was predominant in the Amazon biome. The molecular epidemiology of Entamoeba spp. is a field to be further explored and provides information with important implications for public health. ![]()
Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13071-021-04672-y.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deiviane Aparecida Calegar
- Laboratório de Epidemiologia e Sistemática Molecular, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil.
| | - Kerla Joeline Lima Monteiro
- Centro/Norte, Escritório Técnico Regional - Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Piauí, Rua Magalhães Filho, 519, Teresina, Piauí, Brazil
| | - Polyanna Araújo Alves Bacelar
- Laboratório de Epidemiologia e Sistemática Molecular, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil.,Centro/Norte, Escritório Técnico Regional - Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Piauí, Rua Magalhães Filho, 519, Teresina, Piauí, Brazil
| | - Brenda Bulsara Costa Evangelista
- Laboratório de Epidemiologia e Sistemática Molecular, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil.,Centro/Norte, Escritório Técnico Regional - Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Piauí, Rua Magalhães Filho, 519, Teresina, Piauí, Brazil
| | - Mayron Morais Almeida
- Laboratório de Epidemiologia e Sistemática Molecular, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Jéssica Pereira Dos Santos
- Laboratório de Epidemiologia e Sistemática Molecular, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil.,Centro/Norte, Escritório Técnico Regional - Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Piauí, Rua Magalhães Filho, 519, Teresina, Piauí, Brazil
| | - Márcio Neves Boia
- Laboratório de Biologia e Parasitologia de Mamíferos Silvestres Reservatórios, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Beatriz Coronato-Nunes
- Laboratório de Epidemiologia e Sistemática Molecular, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil.,Faculdade de Medicina de Petrópolis (FMP)/Faculdade Arthur Sá Earp Neto (FASE), Rua Machado Fagundes, 326, Cascatinha, Petrópolis, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Lauren Hubert Jaeger
- Laboratório de Epidemiologia e Sistemática Molecular, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil.,Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade Federal de Juiz de Fora, Rua José Lourenço Kelmer, s/n - Campus Universitário, Bairro São Pedro, Juiz de Fora, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Filipe Anibal Carvalho-Costa
- Laboratório de Epidemiologia e Sistemática Molecular, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
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Ai S, Zhang Z, Wang X, Zhang Q, Yin W, Duan Z. The first survey and molecular identification of Entamoeba spp. in farm animals on Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau of China. Comp Immunol Microbiol Infect Dis 2020; 75:101607. [PMID: 33385695 DOI: 10.1016/j.cimid.2020.101607] [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: 10/28/2020] [Revised: 12/13/2020] [Accepted: 12/15/2020] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
Protozoans of Entamoeba spp. are globally distributed zoonotic parasites that infect diverse animal hosts and humans. Prevalence and species/genotypes distribution of Entamoeba spp. in domestic animals are not fully investigated on Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau (QTP), an animal husbandry and agriculture region of China. In a survey, 528 fecal samples were collected from 7 species of domestic animals on multiple locations across QTP region and analyzed by PCR and sequencing analysis. The overall prevalence of Entamoeba spp. infection in all examined animals was 97.9 %. Four Entamoeba species, E. bovis, E. moshkovskii, E. ecuadoriensis and E. histolytica were found, and majority (94.2 %) of Entamoeba-infected animals harbored E. bovis. Six Entamoeba genotypes, Entamoeba ribosomal lineages (RL) 1, 2, 3, 4, 8 and 9 were identified by sequencing analysis. Two zoonotic species, E. moshkovskii and E. histolytica, were present in horses, while E. ecuadoriensis and E. bovis were found in horses and all species of seven farm animals, respectively. It was also observed that six Entamoeba genotypes were distributed in animals in specific pattern. The results revealed high prevalence of Entamoeba spp. infection in livestock, broad range of hosts as well as diversity and species/genotype distribution of Entamoeba spp. in farm animals inhabiting on the high altitude QTP region.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sitong Ai
- College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Shenyang Agricultural University, No.120 Dongling Road, Shenhe District, Shenyang 110866, China; Genetic Resources Center, Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, No.1 Beichen West Road, Chaoyang District, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Zhichao Zhang
- Genetic Resources Center, Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, No.1 Beichen West Road, Chaoyang District, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Xiaoqi Wang
- Genetic Resources Center, Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, No.1 Beichen West Road, Chaoyang District, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Qingxun Zhang
- National Research Center for Wildlife-Borne Diseases, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, No.1 Beichen West Road, Chaoyang District, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Weiwen Yin
- College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Shenyang Agricultural University, No.120 Dongling Road, Shenhe District, Shenyang 110866, China; Genetic Resources Center, Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, No.1 Beichen West Road, Chaoyang District, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Ziyuan Duan
- College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Shenyang Agricultural University, No.120 Dongling Road, Shenhe District, Shenyang 110866, China; Genetic Resources Center, Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, No.1 Beichen West Road, Chaoyang District, Beijing 100101, China.
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Entamoeba ranarum Infection in a Ball Python (Python regius). J Comp Pathol 2020; 179:74-78. [PMID: 32958152 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcpa.2020.07.008] [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: 03/30/2020] [Revised: 06/22/2020] [Accepted: 07/18/2020] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
The pathogenic Entamoeba species in snakes is widely regarded to be Entamoeba invadens, which can cause severe amoebiasis with up to 100% mortality. In this case report, we describe a ball python (Python regius) that died after short-term weight loss. Necropsy revealed severe necrotizing colitis with large numbers of intralesional Entamoeba trophozoites. Molecular genetic analysis identified these trophozoites as Entamoeba ranarum, a parasite more usually found in amphibians. Furthermore, the extended history revealed that toads (Rhinella marina) had been housed together with the python. This report illustrates the danger of protozoal cross-infections in exotic animals as well as the importance of molecular genetic tools in Entamoeba diagnosis.
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8
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Differential detection of Entamoeba histolytica, Entamoeba dispar and Entamoeba moshkovskii in faecal samples using nested multiplex PCR in west of Iran. Epidemiol Infect 2020; 147:e96. [PMID: 30869025 PMCID: PMC6519685 DOI: 10.1017/s0950268819000141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
This study aimed to determine the prevalence of Entamoeba histolytica, Entamoeba dispar and Entamoeba moshkovskii (collectively referred to as Entamoeba complex), using microscopic and molecular methods in Kurdistan Province, northwest of Iran. The relationship between positive Entamoeba species and clinical symptoms was also investigated. Eight positive Entamoeba complex, as well as four Entamoeba complex-like isolates, were detected by microscopic stool examination. DNA was extracted from all positive and from 55 randomly selected negative stool samples. PCR was performed using species-specific 18S rRNA primers for the Entamoeba complex. All positive PCR samples were sequenced. In total, 14 (1.01%) out of 1383 isolates, i.e. 12 microscopy-positive and Entamoeba complex-like isolates and two out of 55 microscopy-negative isolates, were identified via PCR and sequencing. Overall, 0.58% (8/1383) of the isolates were E. dispar, 0.14% (2/1383) E. histolytica, 0.07% (1/1383) E. moshkovskii and 0.22% (3/1383) were mixed of E. histolytica and E. dispar. Based on our findings, the prevalence of E. dispar is greater than that of E. histoltyica. On the other hand, a case of E. moshkovskii was reported for the first time in this region. It seems that some gastrointestinal symptoms may be attributed to Entamoeba species.
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Entamoeba chiangraiensis n. sp. (Amoebozoa: Entamoebidae) isolated from the gut of Asian swamp eel ( Monopterus albus) in northern Thailand. Parasitology 2019; 146:1719-1724. [PMID: 31190659 DOI: 10.1017/s0031182019000775] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
The genus Entamoeba comprises mostly gut parasites and commensals of invertebrate and vertebrate animals including humans. Herein, we report a new species of Entamoeba isolated from the gut of Asian swamp eels (Monopterus albus) in northern Thailand. Morphologically, the trophozoite is elongated and has a single prominent pseudopodium with no clear uroid. The trophozoite is actively motile, 30-50 µm in length and 9-13 µm in width. Observed cysts were uninucleate, ranging in size from 10 to 17.5 µm in diameter. Chromatin forms a fine, even lining along the inner nuclear membrane. Fine radial spokes join the karyosome to peripheral chromatin. Size, host and nucleus morphology set our organism apart from other members of the genus reported from fish. The SSU rRNA gene sequences of the new isolates are the first molecular data of an Entamoeba species from fish. Phylogenetic analysis places the new organism as sister to Entamoeba invadens. Based on the distinct morphology and SSU rRNA gene sequence we describe it as a new species, Entamoeba chiangraiensis.
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Wilson IW, Weedall GD, Lorenzi H, Howcroft T, Hon CC, Deloger M, Guillén N, Paterson S, Clark CG, Hall N. Genetic Diversity and Gene Family Expansions in Members of the Genus Entamoeba. Genome Biol Evol 2019; 11:688-705. [PMID: 30668670 PMCID: PMC6414313 DOI: 10.1093/gbe/evz009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/18/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Amoebiasis is the third-most common cause of mortality worldwide from a parasitic disease. Although the primary etiological agent of amoebiasis is the obligate human parasite Entamoeba histolytica, other members of the genus Entamoeba can infect humans and may be pathogenic. Here, we present the first annotated reference genome for Entamoeba moshkovskii, a species that has been associated with human infections, and compare the genomes of E. moshkovskii, E. histolytica, the human commensal Entamoeba dispar, and the nonhuman pathogen Entamoeba invadens. Gene clustering and phylogenetic analyses show differences in expansion and contraction of families of proteins associated with host or bacterial interactions. They intimate the importance to parasitic Entamoeba species of surface-bound proteins involved in adhesion to extracellular membranes, such as the Gal/GalNAc lectin and members of the BspA and Ariel1 families. Furthermore, E. dispar is the only one of the four species to lack a functional copy of the key virulence factor cysteine protease CP-A5, whereas the gene's presence in E. moshkovskii is consistent with the species' potentially pathogenic nature. Entamoeba moshkovskii was found to be more diverse than E. histolytica across all sequence classes. The former is ∼200 times more diverse than latter, with the four E. moshkovskii strains tested having a most recent common ancestor nearly 500 times more ancient than the tested E. histolytica strains. A four-haplotype test indicates that these E. moshkovskii strains are not the same species and should be regarded as a species complex.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ian W Wilson
- Institute of Integrative Biology, University of Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Gareth D Weedall
- Institute of Integrative Biology, University of Liverpool, United Kingdom.,School of Natural Sciences and Psychology, Liverpool John Moores University, United Kingdom
| | | | - Timothy Howcroft
- Institute of Integrative Biology, University of Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Chung-Chau Hon
- Unité Biologie Cellulaire du Parasitisme, Institut Pasteur, Paris, France
| | - Marc Deloger
- Unité Biologie Cellulaire du Parasitisme, Institut Pasteur, Paris, France
| | - Nancy Guillén
- Unité Biologie Cellulaire du Parasitisme, Institut Pasteur, Paris, France
| | - Steve Paterson
- Institute of Integrative Biology, University of Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - C Graham Clark
- London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, Faculty of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, London, United Kingdom
| | - Neil Hall
- Earlham Institute, Norwich Research Park, Norwich, United Kingdom.,School of Biological Sciences, University of East Anglia, Norwich Research Park, Norwich, NR4 7TJ United Kingdom
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11
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Espinosa A, Paz-Y-Miño-C G. Discrimination Experiments in Entamoeba and Evidence from Other Protists Suggest Pathogenic Amebas Cooperate with Kin to Colonize Hosts and Deter Rivals. J Eukaryot Microbiol 2019; 66:354-368. [PMID: 30055104 PMCID: PMC6349510 DOI: 10.1111/jeu.12673] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2018] [Revised: 06/27/2018] [Accepted: 07/25/2018] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Entamoeba histolytica is one of the least understood protists in terms of taxa, clone, and kin discrimination/recognition ability. However, the capacity to tell apart same or self (clone/kin) from different or nonself (nonclone/nonkin) has long been demonstrated in pathogenic eukaryotes like Trypanosoma and Plasmodium, free-living social amebas (Dictyostelium, Polysphondylium), budding yeast (Saccharomyces), and in numerous bacteria and archaea (prokaryotes). Kin discrimination/recognition is explained under inclusive fitness theory; that is, the reproductive advantage that genetically closely related organisms (kin) can gain by cooperating preferably with one another (rather than with distantly related or unrelated individuals), minimizing antagonism and competition with kin, and excluding genetic strangers (or cheaters = noncooperators that benefit from others' investments in altruistic cooperation). In this review, we rely on the outcomes of in vitro pairwise discrimination/recognition encounters between seven Entamoeba lineages to discuss the biological significance of taxa, clone, and kin discrimination/recognition in a range of generalist and specialist species (close or distantly related phylogenetically). We then focus our discussion on the importance of these laboratory observations for E. histolytica's life cycle, host infestation, and implications of these features of the amebas' natural history for human health (including mitigation of amebiasis).
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Affiliation(s)
- Avelina Espinosa
- Department of Biology, Roger Williams University, Bristol, Rhode Island
- New England Center for the Public Understanding of Science, Roger Williams University, Bristol, Rhode Island
| | - Guillermo Paz-Y-Miño-C
- New England Center for the Public Understanding of Science, Roger Williams University, Bristol, Rhode Island
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12
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Development and evaluation of molecular tools for detecting and differentiating intestinal amoebae in healthy individuals. Parasitology 2019; 146:821-827. [PMID: 30638175 DOI: 10.1017/s0031182018002196] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Amoebae are single-celled parasites frequently colonizing human gut. However, few molecular tools are available for accurate identification. Here, we evaluated a panel of polymerase chain reactions (PCRs) targeting Entamoeba histolytica, Entamoeba dispar, Entamoeba coli, Entamoeba hartmanni, Entamoeba polecki, Endolimax nana and Iodamoeba bütschlii. Thirty-six faecal samples (18 containing at least one amoeba species by microscopy and 18 microscopy negative for amoebae) were tested. Real-time PCRs were used for detection and differentiation of E. histolytica and E. dispar. Conventional PCR with Sanger sequencing were applied for detection and differentiation of E. coli, E. hartmanni, E. polecki, E. nana and I. bütschlii. All microscopy results were confirmed by DNA-based methods. However, more samples were positive for single and mixed amoebic species by DNA-based assays than by microscopy (22 vs 18 and 7 vs 1, respectively). DNA sequencing allowed identification of E. coli subtypes (ST1 and ST2), showed low intra-specific variation within E. hartmanni, identified two phylogenetically distinct groups within E. nana, and identified Iodamoeba at the ribosomal lineage level. Taking into account the high intra-genetic diversity within some of the species at the small subunit (SSU) rRNA gene level, amplification of SSU rRNA genes with subsequent sequencing represents a useful method for detecting, differentiating and subtyping intestinal amoebae.
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13
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Vlčková K, Kreisinger J, Pafčo B, Čížková D, Tagg N, Hehl AB, Modrý D. Diversity of Entamoeba spp. in African great apes and humans: an insight from Illumina MiSeq high-throughput sequencing. Int J Parasitol 2018. [PMID: 29530647 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpara.2017.11.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Understanding the complex Entamoeba communities in the mammalian intestine has been, to date, complicated by the lack of a suitable approach for molecular detection of multiple variants co-occurring in mixed infections. Here, we report on the application of a high throughput sequencing approach based on partial 18S rDNA using the Illumina MiSeq platform. We describe, to our knowledge, for the first time, the Entamoeba communities in humans, free-ranging western lowland gorillas and central chimpanzees living in the Dja Faunal Reserve in Cameroon. We detected 36 Entamoeba haplotypes belonging to six haplotype clusters, containing haplotypes possessing high and low host specificity. Most of the detected haplotypes belonged to commensal Entamoeba, however, the pathogenic species (Entamoeba histolytica and Entamoeba nuttalli) were also detected. We observed that some Entamoeba haplotypes are shared between humans and other hosts, indicating their zoonotic potential. The findings are important not only for understanding the epidemiology of amoebiasis in humans in rural African localities, but also in the context of wild great ape conservation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Klára Vlčková
- Department of Pathology and Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Veterinary and Pharmaceutical Sciences Brno, Palackého tř. 1946/1, Brno 61242, Czech Republic; Institute of Vertebrate Biology, Czech Academy of Sciences, Květná 8, Brno 603 65, Czech Republic.
| | - Jakub Kreisinger
- Division of Animal Evolutionary Biology, Department of Zoology Faculty of Science, Charles University in Prague, Viničná 7, 128 44 Praha, Czech Republic
| | - Barbora Pafčo
- Department of Pathology and Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Veterinary and Pharmaceutical Sciences Brno, Palackého tř. 1946/1, Brno 61242, Czech Republic
| | - Dagmar Čížková
- Institute of Vertebrate Biology, Czech Academy of Sciences, Květná 8, Brno 603 65, Czech Republic
| | - Nikki Tagg
- Projet Grands Singes Cameroon, Centre for Research and Conservation, Royal Zoological Society of Antwerp, 20-26 Koningin Astridplein, 2018 Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Adrian B Hehl
- Institute of Parasitology, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstrasse 266a, CH-8057 Zrich, Switzerland
| | - David Modrý
- Department of Pathology and Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Veterinary and Pharmaceutical Sciences Brno, Palackého tř. 1946/1, Brno 61242, Czech Republic; Institute of Parasitology, Biology Centre of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Branišovská 31, České Budějovice 370 05, Czech Republic; CEITEC VFU, University of Veterinary and Pharmaceutical Sciences Brno, Palackého tř. 1946/1, Brno 612 42, Czech Republic
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14
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García G, Ramos F, Martínez-Hernández F, Hernández L, Yáñez J, Gaytán P. A new subtype of Entamoeba gingivalis: "E. gingivalis ST2, kamaktli variant". Parasitol Res 2018; 117:1277-1284. [PMID: 29429011 PMCID: PMC5978907 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-018-5798-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2017] [Accepted: 01/31/2018] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Entamoeba gingivalis is a protozoan that resides in the oral cavity. Using molecular biology techniques, we identified a novel organism that shares the same ecological niche as E. gingivalis. To differentiate this organism from E. gingivalis, we named it “kamaktli variant.” By sequencing the 18S-ITS1-5.8S-ITS2 rRNA region, we demonstrated that kamaktli variant is 89% identical to E. gingivalis. To elucidate the relationship between kamaktli variant and E. gingivalis, we performed a phylogenetic analysis. Both taxa clustered in the same clade with high support, indicating that the amoebas are closely related (98/99/1.00, maximum parsimony/maximum likelihood/MrBayes, respectively). Given this information, we propose that these molecular differences between kamaktli variant and E. gingivalis ST1 are sufficient to distinguish them as independent subtypes, and we name the new subtype “E. gingivalis ST2, kamaktli variant.”
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriela García
- Departamento de Microbiología y Parasitología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Av. Universidad 3000, Cd. Universitaria Coyoacán, CP.04510, Ciudad de México, Mexico.
| | - Fernando Ramos
- Departamento de Microbiología y Parasitología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Av. Universidad 3000, Cd. Universitaria Coyoacán, CP.04510, Ciudad de México, Mexico
| | - Fernando Martínez-Hernández
- Departamento de Ecología de Agentes Patógenos, Hospital General Dr. Manuel Gea González, Calzada de Tlalpan 4800, Tlalpan, CP.14080, Ciudad de México, Mexico
| | - Lilian Hernández
- Departamento de Microbiología y Parasitología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Av. Universidad 3000, Cd. Universitaria Coyoacán, CP.04510, Ciudad de México, Mexico
| | - Jorge Yáñez
- Unidad de Síntesis y Secuenciación de DNA, Instituto de Biotecnología, UNAM, Av. Universidad 2001, CP.14000, Cuernavaca, Morelos, Mexico
| | - Paul Gaytán
- Unidad de Síntesis y Secuenciación de DNA, Instituto de Biotecnología, UNAM, Av. Universidad 2001, CP.14000, Cuernavaca, Morelos, Mexico
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15
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Elsheikha HM, Regan CS, Clark CG. Novel Entamoeba Findings in Nonhuman Primates. Trends Parasitol 2018; 34:283-294. [PMID: 29396202 DOI: 10.1016/j.pt.2017.12.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2017] [Revised: 12/18/2017] [Accepted: 12/19/2017] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
In addition to well-known human-infecting species, Entamoeba species not found in humans have been identified recently in nonhuman primates (NHPs). Importantly, it has become clear that the organism identified as Entamoeba histolytica in NHPs is usually a distinct species, Entamoeba nuttalli. Many DNA-based stool surveys use species-specific detection methods and so may miss the full range of Entamoeba species present. In addition, authors may be using the same species name to describe distinct organisms. These various shortcomings may not be obvious to readers. In this review, we clarify the relationships between Entamoeba species' names based on morphological and molecular data, and highlight gaps in recently published data on Entamoeba species in wild NHPs resulting from the use of variable methodology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hany M Elsheikha
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine and Science, University of Nottingham, Sutton Bonington Campus, Loughborough, LE12 5RD, UK
| | - Carl S Regan
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine and Science, University of Nottingham, Sutton Bonington Campus, Loughborough, LE12 5RD, UK; Current address: Vets4pets Dover Whitfield, White Cliffs Retail Park, Whitfield, Dover, CT16 3PS, UK
| | - C Graham Clark
- Faculty of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK.
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16
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Xu F, Jerlström-Hultqvist J, Kolisko M, Simpson AGB, Roger AJ, Svärd SG, Andersson JO. On the reversibility of parasitism: adaptation to a free-living lifestyle via gene acquisitions in the diplomonad Trepomonas sp. PC1. BMC Biol 2016; 14:62. [PMID: 27480115 PMCID: PMC4967989 DOI: 10.1186/s12915-016-0284-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2016] [Accepted: 07/13/2016] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Background It is generally thought that the evolutionary transition to parasitism is irreversible because it is associated with the loss of functions needed for a free-living lifestyle. Nevertheless, free-living taxa are sometimes nested within parasite clades in phylogenetic trees, which could indicate that they are secondarily free-living. Herein, we test this hypothesis by studying the genomic basis for evolutionary transitions between lifestyles in diplomonads, a group of anaerobic eukaryotes. Most described diplomonads are intestinal parasites or commensals of various animals, but there are also free-living diplomonads found in oxygen-poor environments such as marine and freshwater sediments. All these nest well within groups of parasitic diplomonads in phylogenetic trees, suggesting that they could be secondarily free-living. Results We present a transcriptome study of Trepomonas sp. PC1, a diplomonad isolated from marine sediment. Analysis of the metabolic genes revealed a number of proteins involved in degradation of the bacterial membrane and cell wall, as well as an extended set of enzymes involved in carbohydrate degradation and nucleotide metabolism. Phylogenetic analyses showed that most of the differences in metabolic capacity between free-living Trepomonas and the parasitic diplomonads are due to recent acquisitions of bacterial genes via gene transfer. Interestingly, one of the acquired genes encodes a ribonucleotide reductase, which frees Trepomonas from the need to scavenge deoxyribonucleosides. The transcriptome included a gene encoding squalene-tetrahymanol cyclase. This enzyme synthesizes the sterol substitute tetrahymanol in the absence of oxygen, potentially allowing Trepomonas to thrive under anaerobic conditions as a free-living bacterivore, without depending on sterols from other eukaryotes. Conclusions Our findings are consistent with the phylogenetic evidence that the last common ancestor of diplomonads was dependent on a host and that Trepomonas has adapted secondarily to a free-living lifestyle. We believe that similar studies of other groups where free-living taxa are nested within parasites could reveal more examples of secondarily free-living eukaryotes. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s12915-016-0284-z) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Feifei Xu
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Science for Life Laboratory, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Jon Jerlström-Hultqvist
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Science for Life Laboratory, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden.,Present address: Department of Medical Biochemistry and Microbiology, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Martin Kolisko
- Department of Biology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada.,Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada.,Present address: Botany Department, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Alastair G B Simpson
- Department of Biology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada.,Canadian Institute for Advanced Research, Integrated Microbial Biodiversity Program, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Andrew J Roger
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada.,Canadian Institute for Advanced Research, Integrated Microbial Biodiversity Program, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Staffan G Svärd
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Science for Life Laboratory, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Jan O Andersson
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Science for Life Laboratory, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden.
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17
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Paz-Y-Miño-C G, Espinosa A. Kin Discrimination in Protists: From Many Cells to Single Cells and Backwards. J Eukaryot Microbiol 2016; 63:367-77. [PMID: 26873616 PMCID: PMC4856593 DOI: 10.1111/jeu.12306] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2015] [Revised: 02/03/2016] [Accepted: 02/07/2016] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
During four decades (1960-1990s), the conceptualization and experimental design of studies in kin recognition relied on work with multicellular eukaryotes, particularly Unikonta (including invertebrates and vertebrates) and some Bikonta (including plants). This pioneering research had an animal behavior approach. During the 2000s, work on taxa-, clone- and kin-discrimination and recognition in protists produced genetic and molecular evidence that unicellular organisms (e.g. Saccharomyces, Dictyostelium, Polysphondylium, Tetrahymena, Entamoeba and Plasmodium) could distinguish between same (self or clone) and different (diverse clones), as well as among conspecifics of close or distant genetic relatedness. Here, we discuss some of the research on the genetics of kin discrimination/recognition and highlight the scientific progress made by switching emphasis from investigating multicellular to unicellular systems (and backwards). We document how studies with protists are helping us to understand the microscopic, cellular origins and evolution of the mechanisms of kin discrimination/recognition and their significance for the advent of multicellularity. We emphasize that because protists are among the most ancient organisms on Earth, belong to multiple taxonomic groups and occupy all environments, they can be central to reexamining traditional hypotheses in the field of kin recognition, reformulating concepts, and generating new knowledge.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guillermo Paz-Y-Miño-C
- New England Center for the Public Understanding of Science, Roger Williams University, One Old Ferry Road, Bristol, Rhode Island, 02809
| | - Avelina Espinosa
- New England Center for the Public Understanding of Science, Roger Williams University, One Old Ferry Road, Bristol, Rhode Island, 02809
- Department of Biology, Roger Williams University, One Old Ferry Road, Bristol, Rhode Island, 02809
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18
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Pánek T, Zadrobílková E, Walker G, Brown MW, Gentekaki E, Hroudová M, Kang S, Roger AJ, Tice AK, Vlček Č, Čepička I. First multigene analysis of Archamoebae (Amoebozoa: Conosa) robustly reveals its phylogeny and shows that Entamoebidae represents a deep lineage of the group. Mol Phylogenet Evol 2016; 98:41-51. [PMID: 26826602 DOI: 10.1016/j.ympev.2016.01.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2015] [Revised: 01/17/2016] [Accepted: 01/19/2016] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
Archamoebae is an understudied group of anaerobic free-living or endobiotic protists that constitutes the major anaerobic lineage of the supergroup Amoebozoa. Hitherto, the phylogeny of Archamoebae was based solely on SSU rRNA and actin genes, which did not resolve relationships among the main lineages of the group. Because of this uncertainty, several different scenarios had been proposed for the phylogeny of the Archamoebae. In this study, we present the first multigene phylogenetic analysis that includes members of Pelomyxidae, and Rhizomastixidae. The analysis clearly shows that Mastigamoebidae, Pelomyxidae and Rhizomastixidae form a clade of mostly free-living, amoeboid flagellates, here called Pelobiontida. The predominantly endobiotic and aflagellated Entamoebidae represents a separate, deep-branching lineage, Entamoebida. Therefore, two unique evolutionary events, horizontal transfer of the nitrogen fixation system from bacteria and transfer of the sulfate activation pathway to mitochondrial derivatives, predate the radiation of recent lineages of Archamoebae. The endobiotic lifestyle has arisen at least three times independently during the evolution of the group. We also present new ultrastructural data that clarifies the primary divergence among the family Mastigamoebidae which had previously been inferred from phylogenetic analyses based on SSU rDNA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomáš Pánek
- Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, Charles University in Prague, Vinicna 7, 128 44 Prague, Czech Republic.
| | - Eliška Zadrobílková
- Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, Charles University in Prague, Vinicna 7, 128 44 Prague, Czech Republic; Centre for Epidemiology and Microbiology, National Institute of Public Health, Srobarova 48, 100 42 Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Giselle Walker
- Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, Charles University in Prague, Vinicna 7, 128 44 Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Matthew W Brown
- Department of Biological Sciences, Mississippi State University, Mississippi State, MS 39762, USA; Institute for Genomics, Biocomputing & Biotechnology, Mississippi State University, Mississippi State, MS 39762, USA
| | - Eleni Gentekaki
- School of Science, Mae Fah Luang University, Chiang Rai 57100, Thailand
| | - Miluše Hroudová
- Department of Genomics and Bioinformatics, Institute of Molecular Genetics, Czech Academy of Sciences, Videnska 1083, 142 20 Prague 4, Czech Republic
| | - Seungho Kang
- Department of Biological Sciences, Mississippi State University, Mississippi State, MS 39762, USA; Institute for Genomics, Biocomputing & Biotechnology, Mississippi State University, Mississippi State, MS 39762, USA
| | - Andrew J Roger
- Centre for Comparative Genomics and Evolutionary Bioinformatics, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS B3H 4R2, Canada; Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS B3H 4R2, Canada
| | - Alexander K Tice
- Department of Biological Sciences, Mississippi State University, Mississippi State, MS 39762, USA; Institute for Genomics, Biocomputing & Biotechnology, Mississippi State University, Mississippi State, MS 39762, USA
| | - Čestmír Vlček
- Department of Genomics and Bioinformatics, Institute of Molecular Genetics, Czech Academy of Sciences, Videnska 1083, 142 20 Prague 4, Czech Republic
| | - Ivan Čepička
- Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, Charles University in Prague, Vinicna 7, 128 44 Prague, Czech Republic
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19
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Poulsen CS, Stensvold CR. Systematic review on Endolimax nana: A less well studied intestinal ameba. Trop Parasitol 2016; 6:8-29. [PMID: 26998431 PMCID: PMC4778187 DOI: 10.4103/2229-5070.175077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2015] [Accepted: 01/28/2016] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Of the so-called nonpathogenic intestinal protozoa, Endolimax nana belongs to the ones least well described. Most data on E. nana have emerged from general surveys of intestinal parasites in selected cohorts and mostly in the absence of any particular focus on Endolimax. Hence, the genus of Endolimax remains largely unexplored in terms of morphology, taxonomy, genetic diversity, host specificity, and epidemiology. In this review, we seek to provide an overview of the work that has been performed on the parasite since the genus Endolimax was described by Kuenen and Swellengrebel in 1917 and suggest activities that may pave the way for a better understanding of E. nana in a clinical and public health context.
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Affiliation(s)
- Casper Sahl Poulsen
- Department of Microbiology and Infection Control, Laboratory of Parasitology, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Christen Rune Stensvold
- Department of Microbiology and Infection Control, Laboratory of Parasitology, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark
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20
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Shiratori T, Ishida KI. Entamoeba marina
n. sp.; a New Species of Entamoeba
Isolated from Tidal Flat Sediment of Iriomote Island, Okinawa, Japan. J Eukaryot Microbiol 2015; 63:280-6. [DOI: 10.1111/jeu.12276] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2014] [Revised: 09/24/2015] [Accepted: 09/30/2015] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Takashi Shiratori
- Graduate School of Life and Environmental Sciences; University of Tsukuba; Tsukuba Ibaraki 305-8572 Japan
| | - Ken-ichiro Ishida
- Faculty of Life and Environmental Sciences; University of Tsukuba; Tsukuba Ibaraki 305-8572 Japan
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21
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Matsubayashi M, Murakoshi N, Komatsu T, Tokoro M, Haritani M, Shibahara T. Genetic identification of Entamoeba polecki subtype 3 from pigs in Japan and characterisation of its pathogenic role in ulcerative colitis. INFECTION GENETICS AND EVOLUTION 2015; 36:8-14. [PMID: 26318541 DOI: 10.1016/j.meegid.2015.08.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2015] [Revised: 08/20/2015] [Accepted: 08/24/2015] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
To date, three Entamoeba spp. (E. suis, zoonotic E. polecki and E. histolytica) have been identified in pigs, but their pathogenicity and molecular classification have not been fully determined. Examination and pathological analysis of pigs (n=3) with diarrhoea was conducted and revealed the presence of Entamoeba organisms. We performed a genetic analysis of the isolate using the small-subunit ribosomal RNA (SSU rRNA) gene region to identify the species. A severe ulcerative colitis was observed histopathologically with inflammatory cells, including macrophages and neutrophils, infiltrating the mucous membranes of the cecum and colon. Many Entamoeba trophozoites were found at the erosion site or at ulcerative lesions. Pathogenic viruses or bacteria were not detected. The SSU rRNA sequence of the Entamoeba isolate was found to be completely homologous to that of E. polecki subtype 3.
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Affiliation(s)
- Makoto Matsubayashi
- National Institute of Animal Health, National Agricultural and Food Research Organization, Tsukuba, Ibaraki 305-0856, Japan; Department of Veterinary Science, Graduate School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Osaka Prefecture University, Izumisano, Osaka 598-8531, Japan
| | - Naoko Murakoshi
- Chuou Animal Health and Hygiene Service Centre of Aichi Prefecture, Okazaki, Aichi 444-0805, Japan
| | - Tetsuya Komatsu
- Chuou Animal Health and Hygiene Service Centre of Aichi Prefecture, Okazaki, Aichi 444-0805, Japan
| | - Masaharu Tokoro
- Department of Parasitology, Graduate School of Medical Science, Kanazawa University, Takara-machi, Kanazawa 920-8640, Japan
| | - Makoto Haritani
- National Institute of Animal Health, National Agricultural and Food Research Organization, Tsukuba, Ibaraki 305-0856, Japan
| | - Tomoyuki Shibahara
- National Institute of Animal Health, National Agricultural and Food Research Organization, Tsukuba, Ibaraki 305-0856, Japan.
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22
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Jacob AS, Busby EJ, Levy AD, Komm N, Clark CG. Expanding the Entamoeba Universe: New Hosts Yield Novel Ribosomal Lineages. J Eukaryot Microbiol 2015; 63:69-78. [PMID: 26130044 DOI: 10.1111/jeu.12249] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2015] [Revised: 06/24/2015] [Accepted: 06/24/2015] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Removing the requirement for cell culture has led to a substantial increase in the number of lineages of Entamoeba recognized as distinct. Surveying the range of potential host species for this parasite genus has barely been started and it is clear that additional sampling of the same host in different locations often identifies additional diversity. In this study, using small subunit ribosomal RNA gene sequencing, we identify four new lineages of Entamoeba, including the first report of Entamoeba from an elephant, and extend the host range of some previously described lineages. In addition, examination of microbiome data from a number of host animals suggests that substantial Entamoeba diversity remains to be uncovered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alison S Jacob
- Faculty of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, WC1E 7HT, United Kingdom
| | - Eloise J Busby
- Faculty of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, WC1E 7HT, United Kingdom
| | - Abigail D Levy
- Faculty of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, WC1E 7HT, United Kingdom
| | - Natasha Komm
- Faculty of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, WC1E 7HT, United Kingdom
| | - C Graham Clark
- Faculty of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, WC1E 7HT, United Kingdom
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23
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Abstract
Among the Entamoeba species that infect humans, Entamoeba histolytica causes diseases, Entamoeba dispar is a harmless commensal, Entamoeba moshkovskii seems to be a pathogen, and the pathogenicity of Entamoeba bangladeshi remains to be investigated. Species-specific detection needed for treatment decisions and for understanding the epidemiology and pathogenicity of these amebae. Antigen-based detection methods are needed for E dispar, E moshkovskii, and E bangladeshi; and molecular diagnostic test capable of detecting E histolytica, E dispar, E moshkovskii, and E bangladeshi simultaneously in clinical samples. Next-generation sequencing of DNA from stool is needed to identify novel species of Entamoeba.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ibne Karim M Ali
- Division of Foodborne Waterborne and Environmental Diseases, National Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Infectious Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 1600 Clifton Road Northeast, Mailstop D-66, Atlanta, GA 30329, USA.
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24
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Espinosa A, Paz-Y-Miño-C G. Evidence of Taxa-, Clone-, and Kin-discrimination in Protists: Ecological and Evolutionary Implications. Evol Ecol 2014; 28:1019-1029. [PMID: 25400313 DOI: 10.1007/s10682-014-9721-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
Unicellular eukaryotes, or protists, are among the most ancient organisms on Earth. Protists belong to multiple taxonomic groups; they are widely distributed geographically and in all environments. Their ability to discriminate among con- and heterospecifics has been documented during the past decade. Here we discuss exemplar cases of taxa-, clone-, and possible kin-discrimination in five major lineages: Mycetozoa (Dictyostelium, Polysphondylium), Dikarya (Saccharomyces), Ciliophora (Tetrahymena), Apicomplexa (Plasmodium) and Archamoebae (Entamoeba). We summarize the proposed genetic mechanisms involved in discrimination-mediated aggregation (self versus different), including the csA, FLO and trg (formerly lag) genes, and the Proliferation Activation Factors (PAFs), which facilitate clustering in some protistan taxa. We caution about the experimental challenges intrinsic to studying recognition in protists, and highlight the opportunities for exploring the ecology and evolution of complex forms of cell-cell communication, including social behavior, in a polyphyletic, still superficially understood group of organisms. Because unicellular eukaryotes are the evolutionary precursors of multicellular life, we infer that their mechanisms of taxa-, clone-, and possible kin-discrimination gave origin to the complex diversification and sophistication of traits associated with species and kin recognition in plants, fungi, invertebrates and vertebrates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Avelina Espinosa
- Department of Biology, Roger Williams University, One Old Ferry Road, Bristol, Rhode Island 02809, USA
| | - Guillermo Paz-Y-Miño-C
- Department of Biology, University of Massachusetts Dartmouth, 285 Old Westport Road, North Dartmouth, Massachusetts 02747-2300, USA
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25
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Matsubayashi M, Suzuta F, Terayama Y, Shimojo K, Yui T, Haritani M, Shibahara T. Ultrastructural characteristics and molecular identification of Entamoeba suis isolated from pigs with hemorrhagic colitis: implications for pathogenicity. Parasitol Res 2014; 113:3023-8. [PMID: 24894081 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-014-3965-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2014] [Accepted: 05/25/2014] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Protozoan parasites of the genus Entamoeba infect many classes of vertebrates and are primarily classified based on morphological criteria. To date, only a few species have been proven to cause disease. Here, we examined the pathology of infected pigs with hemorrhage and detected Entamoeba parasites. Isolates were characterized genetically and ultrastructurally to identify the species. Histopathologically, bleeding and thrombus formation were seen only in the large intestine mucosa, where a large number of trophozoites or some Entamoeba cysts were observed around breakdowns in the lamina propria. No screw-shaped bacteria were detected in the lesions, and no pathogenic bacteria such as Brachyspira spp. were detected in fecal cultures. Interestingly, electron microscopy revealed that the parasites possessed mitochondrial organelles, unlike other Entamoeba spp. The isolates were identified as Entamoeba suis by PCR analysis and sequencing of the small subunit ribosomal RNA (SSU rRNA) gene. In phylogenetic analyses based on the actin gene, the E. suis isolate formed a cluster with Entamoeba histolytica and Entamoeba invadens, as well as with other parasites of the Amoebidae. Whether the pathogenicity of the E. suis isolate is affected by the severity of infection or host health status remains unclear; however, our results suggest that E. suis could cause or exacerbate clinical symptoms such as hemorrhagic colitis or diarrhea.
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Affiliation(s)
- Makoto Matsubayashi
- National Institute of Animal Health, National Agricultural and Food Research Organization, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, 305-0856, Japan
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26
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Constenla M, Padrós F, Palenzuela O. Endolimax piscium sp. nov. (Amoebozoa), causative agent of systemic granulomatous disease of cultured sole, Solea senegalensis Kaup. JOURNAL OF FISH DISEASES 2014; 37:229-240. [PMID: 23496286 DOI: 10.1111/jfd.12097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2012] [Revised: 01/21/2013] [Accepted: 01/29/2013] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
A new amoeba species pathogenic for Senegalese sole is described based on ultrastructural analysis and SSU rDNA phylogenetic inference. The parasite presents round to ovoid trophozoites (<5 μm) with a high degree of intracellular simplification. No mitochondria were observed, but mitosome-like organelles were present. No cysts could be detected. Phylogenetic analysis confirmed the Senegalese sole parasite as an amitochondriate Archamoeba related to Endolimax nana and Iodamoeba spp., and we tentatively describe it as a new species in the genus Endolimax, Endolimax piscium. However, the genetic distance with E. nana is quite large, with only 60% pairwise identity between both SSU rDNA genotypes. Although the overall topology of the Archamoebae cladograms containing E. piscium was consistent, the support for the branching of Endolimax spp. relative to its closest neighbours was variable, being higher with distance or parsimony-based inference methods than with ML or Bayesian trees. The use of stringent alignment sampling masks also caused instability and reduced support for some branches, including the monophyly of Endolimax spp. in the most conservative data sets. The characterization of other Archamoebae parasitizing fish could help to clarify the status of E. piscium and to interpret the large genetic distance observed between Endolimax species.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Constenla
- XRAq (Generalitat de Catalunya), Departament de Biologia Animal, de Biologia Vegetal i d'Ecologia, Facultat de Veterinària, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
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27
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Cembranelli SBS, Souto FO, Ferreira-Paim K, Richinho TT, Nunes PL, Nascentes GAN, Ferreira TB, Correia D, Lages-Silva E. First evidence of genetic intraspecific variability and occurrence of Entamoeba gingivalis in HIV(+)/AIDS. PLoS One 2013; 8:e82864. [PMID: 24376598 PMCID: PMC3869735 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0082864] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2013] [Accepted: 11/06/2013] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Entamoeba gingivalis is considered an oral commensal but demonstrates a pathogenic potential associated with periodontal disease in immunocompromised individuals. Therefore, this study evaluated the occurrence, opportunistic conditions, and intraspecific genetic variability of E. gingivalis in HIV(+)/AIDS patients. Entamoeba gingivalis was studied using fresh examination (FE), culture, and PCR from bacterial plaque samples collected from 82 HIV(+)/AIDS patients. Genetic characterization of the lower ribosomal subunit of region 18S (18S-SSU rRNA) was conducted in 9 positive samples using low-stringency single specific primer PCR (LSSP-PCR) and sequencing analysis. Entamoeba gingivalis was detected in 63.4% (52/82) of the samples. No association was detected between the presence of E. gingivalis and the CD4+ lymphocyte count (≤200 cells/mm3 (p = 0.912) or viral load (p = 0.429). The LSSP-PCR results helped group E. gingivalis populations into 2 polymorphic groups (68.3% similarity): group I, associated with 63.6% (7/11) of the samples, and group II, associated with 36.4% (4/11) of the samples, which shared 74% and 83.7% similarity and association with C and E isolates from HIV(−) individuals, respectively. Sequencing of 4 samples demonstrated 99% identity with the reference strain ATCC 30927 and also showed 2 divergent clusters, similar to those detected by LSSP-PCR. Opportunistic behavior of E. gingivalis was not detected, which may be related to the use of highly active antiretroviral therapy by all HIV(+)/AIDS patients. The high occurrence of E. gingivalis in these patients can be influenced by multifactorial components not directly related to the CD4+ lymphocyte counts, such as cholesterol and the oral microbiota host, which could mask the potential opportunistic ability of E. gingivalis. The identification of the 18S SSU-rRNA polymorphism by LSSP-PCR and sequencing analysis provides the first evidence of genetic variability in E. gingivalis isolated from HIV patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sibeli B. S. Cembranelli
- Infectious and Parasitic Diseases Unit and Parasitology Unit, Federal University of Triangulo Mineiro, Uberaba, Minas Gerais, Brazil
- * E-mail:
| | - Fernanda O. Souto
- Infectious and Parasitic Diseases Unit and Parasitology Unit, Federal University of Triangulo Mineiro, Uberaba, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Kennio Ferreira-Paim
- Infectious and Parasitic Diseases Unit and Parasitology Unit, Federal University of Triangulo Mineiro, Uberaba, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Túlio T. Richinho
- Infectious and Parasitic Diseases Unit and Parasitology Unit, Federal University of Triangulo Mineiro, Uberaba, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Poliana L. Nunes
- Infectious and Parasitic Diseases Unit and Parasitology Unit, Federal University of Triangulo Mineiro, Uberaba, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Gabriel A. N. Nascentes
- Infectious and Parasitic Diseases Unit and Parasitology Unit, Federal University of Triangulo Mineiro, Uberaba, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Thatiana B. Ferreira
- Infectious and Parasitic Diseases Unit and Parasitology Unit, Federal University of Triangulo Mineiro, Uberaba, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Dalmo Correia
- Infectious and Parasitic Diseases Unit and Parasitology Unit, Federal University of Triangulo Mineiro, Uberaba, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Eliane Lages-Silva
- Infectious and Parasitic Diseases Unit and Parasitology Unit, Federal University of Triangulo Mineiro, Uberaba, Minas Gerais, Brazil
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28
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García G, Ramos F, Pérez RG, Yañez J, Estrada MS, Mendoza LH, Martinez-Hernandez F, Gaytán P. Molecular epidemiology and genetic diversity of Entamoeba species in a chelonian collection. J Med Microbiol 2013; 63:271-283. [PMID: 24194557 DOI: 10.1099/jmm.0.061820-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Veterinary medicine has focused recently on reptiles, due to the existence of captive collections in zoos and an increase in the acquisition of reptiles as pets. The protozoan parasite, Entamoeba can cause amoebiasis in various animal species and humans. Although amoebiasis disease is remarkably rare in most species of chelonians and crocodiles, these species may serve as Entamoeba species carriers that transmit parasites to susceptible reptile species, such as snakes and lizards, which can become sick and die. In this study, we identified the Entamoeba species in a population of healthy (disease-free) chelonians, and evaluated their diversity through the amplification and sequencing of a small subunit rDNA region. Using this procedure, three Entamoeba species were identified: Entamoeba invadens in 4.76 % of chelonians, Entamoeba moshkovskii in 3.96 % and Entamoeba terrapinae in 50 %. We did not detect mixed Entamoeba infections. Comparative analysis of the amplified region allowed us to determine the intra-species variations. The E. invadens and E. moshkovskii strains isolated in this study did not exhibit marked differences with respect to the sequences reported in GenBank. The analysis of the E. terrapinae isolates revealed three different subgroups (A, B and C). Although subgroups A and C were very similar, subgroup B showed a relatively marked difference with respect to subgroups A and C (Fst = 0.984 and Fst = 1.000, respectively; 10-14 % nucleotide variation, as determined by blast) and with respect to the sequences reported in GenBank. These results suggested that E. terrapinae subgroup B may be either in a process of speciation or belong to a different lineage. However, additional research is necessary to support this statement conclusively.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriela García
- Departamento de Microbiología y Parasitología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Av. Universidad 3000, Colonia Copilco Universidad, Delegación Coyoacan, México DF, CP 04510, México
| | - Fernando Ramos
- Departamento de Microbiología y Parasitología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Av. Universidad 3000, Colonia Copilco Universidad, Delegación Coyoacan, México DF, CP 04510, México
| | - Rodrigo Gutiérrez Pérez
- Departamento de Microbiología y Parasitología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Av. Universidad 3000, Colonia Copilco Universidad, Delegación Coyoacan, México DF, CP 04510, México
| | - Jorge Yañez
- Unidad de Síntesis y Secuenciación de DNA, Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México. Av. Universidad 2001, Cuernavaca Morelos, CP 62210, México
| | - Mónica Salmerón Estrada
- Herpetario de la Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Av. Universidad 3000, Colonia Copilco Universidad, Delegación Coyoacan, México DF, CP 04510, México
| | - Lilian Hernández Mendoza
- Departamento de Microbiología y Parasitología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Av. Universidad 3000, Colonia Copilco Universidad, Delegación Coyoacan, México DF, CP 04510, México
| | - Fernando Martinez-Hernandez
- Departamento de Ecología de Agentes Patógenos, Hospital General Doctor Manuel Gea González, Calz de Tlalpan 4800, Tlalpan, México DF, CP 14000, México
| | - Paul Gaytán
- Unidad de Síntesis y Secuenciación de DNA, Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México. Av. Universidad 2001, Cuernavaca Morelos, CP 62210, México
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29
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Stensvold CR. Blastocystis: Genetic diversity and molecular methods for diagnosis and epidemiology. Trop Parasitol 2013; 3:26-34. [PMID: 23961438 PMCID: PMC3745667 DOI: 10.4103/2229-5070.113896] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2013] [Accepted: 06/24/2013] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Blastocystis, an unusual anaerobic, single-celled stramenopile, is a remarkably successful intestinal parasite of a vast array of host species including humans. Fecal Deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) analysis by nucleic-acid based methods in particular has led to significant advances in Blastocystis diagnostics and research over the past few years enabling accurate identification of carriers and molecular characterization by high discriminatory power. Moreover, Blastocystis comprises a multitude of subtypes (STs) (arguably species) many of which have been identified only recently and molecular epidemiological studies have revealed a significant difference in the distribution of STs across host species and geographical regions. Having a cosmopolitan distribution, the parasite is a common laboratory finding in the stools of individuals with and without intestinal symptoms across the entire globe and while the parasite remains extremely difficult to eradicate and isolate in culture, appropriate molecular tools are now available to resolve important questions such as whether the clinical outcome of colonization is linked to ST and whether Blastocystis is transmitted zoonotically. This review summarizes some of the recent advances in the molecular diagnosis of Blastocystis and gives an introduction to Blastocystis STs, including a recommendation of subtyping methodology based on recent data and method comparisons. A few suggestions for future directions and research areas are given in the light of relevant technological advances and the availability of mitochondrial and nuclear genomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christen Rune Stensvold
- Department of Microbiology and Infection Control, Statens Serum Institut, Artillerivej 5, DK-2300 Copenhagen S, Denmark
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30
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Heredia RD, Fonseca JA, López MC. Entamoeba moshkovskii perspectives of a new agent to be considered in the diagnosis of amebiasis. Acta Trop 2012; 123:139-45. [PMID: 22664420 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2012.05.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2011] [Revised: 05/25/2012] [Accepted: 05/26/2012] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
During the last decade Entamoeba moshkovskii has become relevant given its capacity to infect humans, especially when considering that it is morphologically indistinguishable from E. histolytica. For a long time, E. moshkovskii was considered as a free living amoeba, but in the last decade it has been demonstrated that E. moshkovskii can infect humans and can be found more frequently in regions where amebiasis shows high prevalence values, becoming a challenge to differentiate it from the E. histolytica/E. dispar complex. Recently there have been studies that raise the possibility that E. moshkovskii could be a pathogenic species, as there are reports in different countries that associated this infection with gastrointestinal symptoms even though others have described it as a non pathogenic species. For this reasons, both clinical and epidemiological studies are required.
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31
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Trim RD, Skinner MA, Farone MB, Dubois JD, Newsome AL. Use of PCR to detect Entamoeba gingivalis in diseased gingival pockets and demonstrate its absence in healthy gingival sites. Parasitol Res 2011; 109:857-64. [PMID: 21400116 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-011-2312-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2010] [Accepted: 02/27/2011] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Investigators using light microscopy have identified the protozoan parasite Entamoeba gingivalis from diseased gingival pockets for nearly 100 years. The objective of the present investigation was to develop a molecular biology approach for determining the presence of E. gingivalis in both diseased gingival pockets and healthy gingival sites. For this, a previously developed conventional polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was evaluated and a real-time polymerase chain reaction assay was developed. Paper points were inserted into the base of the sulcus of both diseased gingival pockets and healthy gingival sites. DNA was extracted using the QIAamp DNA mini kit, and subsequently analyzed using conventional and real-time PCR analysis. A previously described primer set specific for the small subunit ribosomal RNA gene (SSU rDNA) of E. gingivalis was used for the conventional PCR. For the real-time PCR, a primer set was designed to amplify a 135-bp fragment inside the SSU rDNA of E. gingivalis. A conventional PCR assay detected E. gingivalis in 27% of diseased gingival pockets. The real-time PCR using a different primer set detected protozoa in 69% of diseased pocket sites. Thus, the latter technique proved more sensitive for detection of E. gingivalis. No E. gingivalis were detected in any of the healthy gingival pocket sites using either type of PCR assay. Results support a concept that the presence of E. gingivalis is associated only with diseased gingival pocket sites. The newly described methodology may also serve to provide a novel eukaryotic cell marker of disease status in gingival pockets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert D Trim
- University of Tennessee School of Dentistry, 875 Union Ave, Memphis, TN, USA
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32
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Increased sampling reveals novel lineages of Entamoeba: consequences of genetic diversity and host specificity for taxonomy and molecular detection. Protist 2011; 162:525-41. [PMID: 21295520 DOI: 10.1016/j.protis.2010.11.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 94] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2010] [Accepted: 11/21/2010] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
To expand the representation for phylogenetic analysis, ten additional complete Entamoeba small-subunit rRNA gene sequences were obtained from humans, non-human primates, cattle and a tortoise. For some novel sequences no corresponding morphological data were available, and we suggest that these organisms should be referred to as ribosomal lineages (RL) rather than being assigned species names at present. To investigate genetic diversity and host specificity of selected Entamoeba species, a total of 91 new partial small subunit rRNA gene sequences were obtained, including 49 from Entamoeba coli, 18 from Entamoeba polecki, and 17 from Entamoeba hartmanni. We propose a new nomenclature for significant variants within established Entamoeba species. Based on current data we propose that the uninucleated-cyst-producing Entamoeba infecting humans is called Entamoeba polecki and divided into four subtypes (ST1-ST4) and that Entamoeba coli is divided into two subtypes (ST1-ST2). New hosts for several species were detected and, while host specificity and genetic diversity of several species remain to be clarified, it is clear that previous reliance on cultivated material has given us a misleading and incomplete picture of variation within the genus Entamoeba.
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33
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Identification and delineation of members of the Entamoeba complex by pyrosequencing. Mol Cell Probes 2010; 24:403-6. [DOI: 10.1016/j.mcp.2010.07.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2010] [Revised: 06/22/2010] [Accepted: 07/22/2010] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
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34
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Clark CG, Gillin FD, Bhattacharya A, Bhattacharya S, Mirelman D. In memoriam: Louis S. "Buddy" Diamond (1920-2009). J Eukaryot Microbiol 2010; 57:449-51. [PMID: 20662997 DOI: 10.1111/j.1550-7408.2010.00493.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- C Graham Clark
- Department of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
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35
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Mitra BN, Pradel G, Frevert U, Eichinger D. Compounds of the upper gastrointestinal tract induce rapid and efficient excystation of Entamoeba invadens. Int J Parasitol 2009; 40:751-60. [PMID: 20018192 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpara.2009.11.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2009] [Revised: 11/24/2009] [Accepted: 11/25/2009] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
The infective stage of Entamoeba parasites is an encysted form. This stage can be readily generated in vitro, which has allowed identification of stimuli that trigger the differentiation of the parasite trophozoite stage into the cyst stage. Studies of the second differentiation event, emergence of the parasite from the cyst upon infection of a host, have been hampered by the lack of an efficient means to excyst the parasite and complete the life cycle in vitro. We have determined that a combination of exposures to water, bicarbonate and bile induces rapid excystment of Entamoeba invadens cysts. The high efficiency of this method has allowed the visualization of the dynamics of the process by electron and confocal microscopy, and should permit the analysis of stage-specific gene expression and high-throughput screening of inhibitory compounds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Biswa Nath Mitra
- Department of Medical Parasitology, New York University School of Medicine, NY 10010, USA
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36
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Stark D, Barratt JLN, van Hal S, Marriott D, Harkness J, Ellis JT. Clinical significance of enteric protozoa in the immunosuppressed human population. Clin Microbiol Rev 2009; 22:634-50. [PMID: 19822892 PMCID: PMC2772358 DOI: 10.1128/cmr.00017-09] [Citation(s) in RCA: 125] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Globally, the number of immunosuppressed people increases each year, with the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) pandemic continuing to spread unabated in many parts of the world. Immunosuppression may also occur in malnourished persons, patients undergoing chemotherapy for malignancy, and those receiving immunosuppressive therapy. Components of the immune system can be functionally or genetically abnormal as a result of acquired (e.g., caused by HIV infection, lymphoma, or high-dose steroids or other immunosuppressive medications) or congenital illnesses, with more than 120 congenital immunodeficiencies described to date that either affect humoral immunity or compromise T-cell function. All individuals affected by immunosuppression are at risk of infection by opportunistic parasites (such as the microsporidia) as well as those more commonly associated with gastrointestinal disease (such as Giardia). The outcome of infection by enteric protozoan parasites is dependent on absolute CD4(+) cell counts, with lower counts being associated with more severe disease, more atypical disease, and a greater risk of disseminated disease. This review summarizes our current state of knowledge on the significance of enteric parasitic protozoa as a cause of disease in immunosuppressed persons and also provides guidance on recent advances in diagnosis and therapy for the control of these important parasites.
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Affiliation(s)
- D Stark
- Department of Microbiology, St. Vincent's Hospital, Darlinghurst 2010, NSW, Australia.
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37
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Singh A, Houpt E, Petri WA. Rapid Diagnosis of Intestinal Parasitic Protozoa, with a Focus on Entamoeba histolytica. Interdiscip Perspect Infect Dis 2009; 2009:547090. [PMID: 19584941 PMCID: PMC2703877 DOI: 10.1155/2009/547090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2009] [Accepted: 03/30/2009] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Entamoeba histolytica is an invasive intestinal pathogenic parasitic protozoan that causes amebiasis. It must be distinguished from Entamoeba dispar and E. moshkovskii, nonpathogenic commensal parasites of the human gut lumen that are morphologically identical to E. histolytica. Detection of specific E. histolytica antigens in stools is a fast, sensitive technique that should be considered as the method of choice. Stool real-time PCR is a highly sensitive and specific technique but its high cost make it unsuitable for use in endemic areas where there are economic constraints. Serology is an important component of the diagnosis of intestinal and especially extraintestinal amebiasis as it is a sensitive test that complements the detection of the parasite antigens or DNA. Circulating Gal/GalNac lectin antigens can be detected in the serum of patients with untreated amoebic liver abscess. On the horizon are multiplex real-time PCR assays which permit the identification of multiple enteropathogens with high sensitivity and specificity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anjana Singh
- University of Virginia, Charlottesville, P.O. Box 801340, VA 22908-1340, USA
- Central Department of Microbiology, Tribhuvan University, Kirtipur, Kathmandu, Nepal
| | - Eric Houpt
- University of Virginia, Charlottesville, P.O. Box 801340, VA 22908-1340, USA
| | - William A. Petri
- University of Virginia, Charlottesville, P.O. Box 801340, VA 22908-1340, USA
- Infectious Diseases and International Health, University of Virginia, MR4 Building, Health System, Charlottesville, VA 22908-1340, USA
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Ximénez C, Morán P, Rojas L, Valadez A, Gómez A. Reassessment of the epidemiology of amebiasis: state of the art. INFECTION GENETICS AND EVOLUTION 2009; 9:1023-32. [PMID: 19540361 DOI: 10.1016/j.meegid.2009.06.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 133] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2009] [Revised: 05/25/2009] [Accepted: 06/08/2009] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
The epidemiology of amebiasis has dramatically changed since the separation of Entamoeba histolytica and Entamoeba dispar species, and the worldwide prevalence of these species has not been estimated until recently. The most cited data regarding prevalence, morbidity, or mortality due to amebiasis is the 1986 Walsh report, in which 100,000 deaths are reported to occur worldwide each year due to medical complications of invasive amebiasis. However, the prevalence values of Entamoeba histolytica infection could be completely erroneous since the estimations were performed prior to the molecular characterization of E. histolytica and E. dispar species. Moreover, Entamoeba moshkovskii, another morphologically indistinguishable human parasitic Entamoeba, was not mentioned or considered as a contributor to the prevalence figures in endemic areas. However, recent available prevalence and morbidity data obtained through molecular techniques allow the construction of a more reliable map of endemic regions of amebiasis all over the world [the Asian subcontinent (India, Bangladesh), Africa, Asian Pacific Countries (Thailand, Japan), South and Central America (Mexico, Colombia)]. The epidemiology of infectious diseases focuses on identification of factors that determine disease distribution in time and space, transmission factors responsible for the disease, clinical manifestations, and progression in the host, with the goal being the design of realistic intervention and prevention strategies in a reasonable period of time. In the present review, we will describe how molecular tools have made actual knowledge regarding the epidemiology of amebiasis possible. We will also analyze the most relevant available data on prevalence, morbidity, geographic distribution, patterns of transmission, exposure, and risk factors for infection in the human host. Our intention is to emphasize the recent molecular typing methods applied in genotyping Entamoeba species and strains, and to assess their value and limitations. Finally, we will discuss those areas of the host-parasite relationship that are still not fully understood, and the scientific challenges to approach this important public health problem in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cecilia Ximénez
- Departamento de Medicina Experimental, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, México DF, Mexico.
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Takano JI, Tachibana H, Kato M, Narita T, Yanagi T, Yasutomi Y, Fujimoto K. DNA characterization of simian Entamoeba histolytica-like strains to differentiate them from Entamoeba histolytica. Parasitol Res 2009; 105:929-37. [DOI: 10.1007/s00436-009-1480-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2009] [Accepted: 05/08/2009] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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40
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Tentative identification of the species of Balantidium from ostriches (Struthio camelus) as Balantidium coli-like by analysis of polymorphic DNA. Vet Parasitol 2008; 157:41-9. [DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2008.06.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2007] [Revised: 06/20/2008] [Accepted: 06/24/2008] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
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41
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High prevalence of Entamoeba moshkovskii in a Tanzanian HIV population. Acta Trop 2008; 107:48-9. [PMID: 18471796 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2008.03.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2007] [Revised: 03/21/2008] [Accepted: 03/31/2008] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Entamoeba moshkovskii and Entamoeba dispar are microscopically indistinguishable from the pathogenic species Entamoeba histolytica. There are limited data on the prevalence of these commensal infections from Africa. We utilized PCR and antigen detection to evaluate the carriage rate of E. moshkovskii, E. dispar, and E. histolytica infection in stool from a cohort of HIV-suspected or confirmed inpatients from Tanzania. E. histolytica was detected by ELISA in 4% (5/118) while E. moshkovskii and E. dispar were detected by PCR in 13% (18/136) and 5% (7/136) of individuals, respectively (P<0.05). Supporting their commensal nature, neither E. moshkovskii nor E. dispar infection was statistically associated with HIV status, CD4 count, or the presence of diarrhea. These data suggest E. moshkovskii is a common infection in HIV-infected individuals in northern Tanzania and supports the concept that the microscopic detection of Entamoeba should be interpreted cautiously.
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Ali IKM, Clark CG, Petri WA. Molecular epidemiology of amebiasis. INFECTION GENETICS AND EVOLUTION 2008; 8:698-707. [PMID: 18571478 DOI: 10.1016/j.meegid.2008.05.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 88] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2008] [Revised: 04/18/2008] [Accepted: 05/01/2008] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Entamoeba histolytica, the causative agent of human amebiasis, remains a significant cause of morbidity and mortality in developing countries and is responsible for up to 100,000 deaths worldwide each year. Entamoeba dispar, morphologically indistinguishable from E. histolytica, is more common in humans in many parts of the world. Similarly Entamoeba moshkovskii, which was long considered to be a free-living ameba, is also morphologically identical to E. histolytica and E. dispar, and is highly prevalent in some E. histolytica endemic countries. However, the only species to cause disease in humans is E. histolytica. Most old epidemiological data on E. histolytica are unusable as the techniques employed do not differentiate between the above three Entamoeba species. Molecular tools are now available not only to diagnose these species accurately but also to study intra-species genetic diversity. Recent studies suggest that only a minority of all E. histolytica infections progress to the development of clinical symptoms in the host and there exist population level differences between the E. histolytica strains isolated from the asymptomatic and symptomatic individuals. Nevertheless the underlying factors responsible for variable clinical outcome of infection by E. histolytica remain largely unknown. We anticipate that the recently completed E. histolytica genome sequence and new molecular techniques will rapidly advance our understanding of the epidemiology and pathogenicity of amebiasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ibne Karim M Ali
- Division of Infectious Diseases and International Health, University of Virginia Health System, MR4 Building Room 2115, Lane Road, Charlottesville, VA 22908, USA.
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Richter B, Kübber-Heiss A, Weissenböck H. Diphtheroid colitis in a Boa constrictor infected with amphibian Entamoeba sp. Vet Parasitol 2008; 153:164-7. [PMID: 18291588 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2008.01.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2007] [Revised: 01/04/2008] [Accepted: 01/10/2008] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
A female boa (Boa constrictor) from a zoological collection was submitted for necropsy after sudden death. Prominent pathological findings included a diphtheroid colitis, endoparasitism, focal pneumonia and inclusion bodies typical for inclusion body disease (IBD). In the colon entamoebae were identified, which differed in size and distribution from Entamoeba invadens. Gene sequence analysis of the 18S ribosomal RNA revealed 100% similarity with an Entamoeba species from the African bullfrog (Pyxicephalus adspersus), probably Entamoeba ranarum. The snake was possibly immunosuppressed, and the source of infection remains unclear. This is the first report of an infection with an amphibian Entamoeba species associated with colitis in a snake.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barbara Richter
- Institute of Pathology and Forensic Veterinary Medicine, Department of Pathobiology, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Veterinärplatz 1, 1210 Vienna, Austria
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Tawari B, Ali IKM, Scott C, Quail MA, Berriman M, Hall N, Clark CG. Patterns of evolution in the unique tRNA gene arrays of the genus Entamoeba. Mol Biol Evol 2008; 25:187-98. [PMID: 17974548 PMCID: PMC2652664 DOI: 10.1093/molbev/msm238] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Genome sequencing of the protistan parasite Entamoeba histolytica HM-1:IMSS revealed that almost all the tRNA genes are organized into tandem arrays that make up over 10% of the genome. The 25 distinct array units contain up to 5 tRNA genes each and some also encode the 5S RNA. Between adjacent genes in array units are complex short tandem repeats (STRs) resembling microsatellites. To investigate the origins and evolution of this unique gene organization, we have undertaken a genome survey to determine the array unit organization in 4 other species of Entamoeba-Entamoeba dispar, Entamoeba moshkovskii, Entamoeba terrapinae, and Entamoeba invadens-and have explored the STR structure in other isolates of E. histolytica. The genome surveys revealed that E. dispar has the same array unit organization as E. histolytica, including the presence and numerical variation of STRs between adjacent genes. However, the individual repeat sequences are completely different to those in E. histolytica. All other species of Entamoeba studied also have tandem arrays of clustered tRNA genes, but the gene composition of the array units often differs from that in E. histolytica/E. dispar. None of the other species' arrays exhibit the complex STRs between adjacent genes although simple tandem duplications are occasionally seen. The degree of similarity in organization reflects the phylogenetic relationships among the species studied. Within individual isolates of E. histolytica most copies of the array unit are uniform in sequence with only minor variation in the number and organization of the STRs. Between isolates, however, substantial differences in STR number and organization can exist although the individual repeat sequences tend to be conserved. The origin of this unique gene organization in the genus Entamoeba clearly predates the common ancestor of the species investigated to date and their function remains unclear.
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Affiliation(s)
- Blessing Tawari
- Department of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
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45
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Genetic analysis of theParamecium aureliaspecies complex (Protozoa: Ciliophora) by classical and molecular methods. SYST BIODIVERS 2007. [DOI: 10.1017/s1477200007002307] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
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Entamoeba moshkovskii infections in Sydney, Australia. Eur J Clin Microbiol Infect Dis 2007; 27:133-7. [PMID: 17957394 DOI: 10.1007/s10096-007-0399-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2007] [Accepted: 09/24/2007] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Entamoeba moshkovskii is considered to be a free-living ameba, which is morphologically similar, but biochemically and genetically different, to Entamoeba histolytica and Entamoeba dispar. However, recent studies have suggested that E. moshkovskii may be a "potential" pathogen, with infections giving rise to diarrhea and other intestinal disorders. Microscopy and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) targeting the 18S ribosomal (r) DNA was performed on fecal samples collected from patients presenting with diarrhea and other gastrointestinal disorders (test group), as well as fecal samples collected from healthy controls (control group). Of the 110 patients microscopically positive for the Entamoeba species, 55/110 (50%) samples were positive for E. moshkovskii in the test group of patients presenting with diarrhea. E. moshkovskii was the only pathogen detected (including bacteria or viruses) in 3/55 (5.5%) of the test group of patients presenting with diarrhea and abdominal pain. The DNA of E. moshkovskii was not detected in the fecal samples collected from the healthy controls. These results suggest that E. moshkovskii may not simply be a commensal of the human gastrointestinal tract and provides evidence for E. moshkovskii as a "potential" pathogen in the case of diarrhea and other gastrointestinal disorders. Further studies are needed to determine the role of E. moshkovskii in causing diarrheal diseases in our population.
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47
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Schill RO, Steinbrück G. Identification and differentiation of Heterotardigrada and Eutardigrada species by riboprinting. J ZOOL SYST EVOL RES 2007. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1439-0469.2007.00409.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
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48
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Fotedar R, Stark D, Beebe N, Marriott D, Ellis J, Harkness J. Laboratory diagnostic techniques for Entamoeba species. Clin Microbiol Rev 2007; 20:511-32, table of contents. [PMID: 17630338 PMCID: PMC1932757 DOI: 10.1128/cmr.00004-07] [Citation(s) in RCA: 251] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The genus Entamoeba contains many species, six of which (Entamoeba histolytica, Entamoeba dispar, Entamoeba moshkovskii, Entamoeba polecki, Entamoeba coli, and Entamoeba hartmanni) reside in the human intestinal lumen. Entamoeba histolytica is the causative agent of amebiasis and is considered a leading parasitic cause of death worldwide in humans. Although recent studies highlight the recovery of E. dispar and E. moshkovskii from patients with gastrointestinal symptoms, there is still no convincing evidence of a causal link between the presence of these two species and the symptoms of the host. New approaches to the identification of E. histolytica are based on detection of E. histolytica-specific antigen and DNA in stool and other clinical samples. Several molecular diagnostic tests, including conventional and real-time PCR, have been developed for the detection and differentiation of E. histolytica, E. dispar, and E. moshkovskii in clinical samples. The purpose of this review is to discuss different methods that exist for the identification of E. histolytica, E. dispar, and E. moshkovskii which are available to the clinical diagnostic laboratory. To address the need for a specific diagnostic test for amebiasis, a substantial amount of work has been carried out over the last decade in different parts of the world. The molecular diagnostic tests are increasingly being used for both clinical and research purposes. In order to minimize undue treatment of individuals infected with other species of Entamoeba such as E. dispar and E. moshkovskii, efforts have been made for specific diagnosis of E. histolytica infection and not to treat based simply on the microscopic examination of Entamoeba species in the stool. The incorporation of many new technologies into the diagnostic laboratory will lead to a better understanding of the public health problem and measures to control the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Fotedar
- St. Vincent's Hospital, Department of Microbiology, Sydney, Darlinghurst, NSW 2010, Australia
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49
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Takano JI, Narita T, Tachibana H, Terao K, Fujimoto K. Comparison of Entamoeba histolytica DNA isolated from a cynomolgus monkey with human isolates. Parasitol Res 2007; 101:539-46. [PMID: 17356893 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-007-0510-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2006] [Accepted: 02/27/2007] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Three protein-coding loci in DNA of an Entamoeba histolytica strain (EHMfas1) isolated from cynomolgus monkey (Macaca fascicularis) were sequenced; these loci corresponded to the genes for chitinase, the serine-rich E. histolytica protein (SREHP), and the 16 S-like small subunit ribosomal RNA (16S-like SSUrRNA). The nucleotide and deduced amino-acid sequences of chitinase and SREHP were compared with sequences from human isolates. EHMfas1 had several specific mutations in units in the polymorphic regions of the chitinase and SREHP loci, with some repetition of these mutated units. The sequence of the 16S-like SSUrRNA gene (16S-like SSUrDNA) was compared with other Entamoeba species. In phylogenetic analysis, EHMfas1 was not categorized in the E. histolytica cluster but between E. histolytica and E. dispar. To our knowledge, this is the first molecular characterization of E. histolytica isolated from cynomolgus monkey, and our results indicate that EHMfas1 may be a subspecies of E. histolytica that infects cynomolgus monkey.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun-Ichiro Takano
- The Corporation for Production and Research of Laboratory Primates, 1 Hachimandai, Tsukuba-shi, Ibaraki 305-0843, Japan.
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Zaki M, Andrew N, Insall RH. Entamoeba histolytica cell movement: a central role for self-generated chemokines and chemorepellents. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2006; 103:18751-6. [PMID: 17132728 PMCID: PMC1693734 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.0605437103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Entamoeba histolytica cells, the cause of amoebic dysentery, are highly motile, and this motility is an essential feature of the pathogenesis and morbidity of amoebiasis. However, the control of E. histolytica motility within the gut and during invasion is poorly understood. We have used an improved chemotaxis assay to identify the key extracellular signals mediating Entamoeba chemotaxis. The dominant responses we observe are caused by factors generated by E. histolytica cells themselves. Medium that has been conditioned by E. histolytica growth causes both chemokinesis and negative chemotaxis. The speed of random movement is more than doubled in conditioned compared with fresh medium, and cells move efficiently away from conditioned medium by negative chemotaxis. Ethanol, the product of Entamoeba glucose metabolism, is the principal component of the chemokinetic response. The closely related but nonpathogenic Entamoeba dispar shows no change in motility in response to conditioned medium implying that these responses are central to E. histolytica pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mehreen Zaki
- School of Biosciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 2TT, United Kingdom
| | - Natalie Andrew
- School of Biosciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 2TT, United Kingdom
| | - Robert H. Insall
- School of Biosciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 2TT, United Kingdom
- *To whom correspondence should be addressed. E-mail:
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