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Backhaus J, Frickmann H, Hagen RM, Concha G, Molitor E, Hoerauf A, Kann S. Gastrointestinal Pathogens in Multi-Infected Individuals: A Cluster Analysis of Interaction. Microorganisms 2023; 11:2642. [PMID: 38004654 PMCID: PMC10673554 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms11112642] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2023] [Revised: 10/17/2023] [Accepted: 10/25/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Indigenous people live in remote areas of Colombia. Multiple infections with bacteria, protozoa and/or helminths are common, as well as colonization in various forms. This study focused on the question of whether and to what extent various pathogens interact with each other. Therefore, a mathematical approach was retrospectively applied to PCR-based data of 244 stool samples, collected in two datasets. A stable cluster solution of the pathogens assessed was determined, and a unique configuration between Blastocystis hominis/Campylobacter spp./Giardia lamblia forming cluster 1 and Dientaemoeba fragilis was verified. A pathogen density-dependent interplay appeared between the B. hominis/Campylobacter spp./G. lamblia cluster, D. fragilis and Ascaris lumbricoides. The applied mathematical approach demonstrated that co-infections with parasites of questionable pathological relevance such as B. hominis and D. fragilis can be of diagnostic relevance due to their ability to promote or repress other pathogens. With the increasing availability of highly sensitive multiplexed molecular diagnostic approaches even in resource-limited settings, where multiple colonization of infection events with enteric pathogens in parallel are common, the importance of interpreting whole pathogen patterns rather than just individual pathogen detection may become more and more relevant.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joy Backhaus
- Statistical Consulting, 97074 Wuerzburg, Germany;
| | - Hagen Frickmann
- Department of Microbiology and Hospital Hygiene, Bundeswehr Hospital Hamburg, 20359 Hamburg, Germany;
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Virology and Hygiene, University Medicine Rostock, 18057 Rostock, Germany
| | - Ralf Matthias Hagen
- Department of Microbiology and Hospital Hygiene, Bundeswehr Central Hospital Koblenz, 56070 Koblenz, Germany;
| | - Gustavo Concha
- Organization Wiwa Yugumaiun Bunkauanarrua Tayrona (OWYBT), Department Health Advocacy, Valledupar 2000001, Colombia;
| | - Ernst Molitor
- Institute of Medical Microbiology, Immunology and Parasitology (IMMIP), University Hospital Bonn, 53127 Bonn, Germany; (E.M.); (A.H.)
| | - Achim Hoerauf
- Institute of Medical Microbiology, Immunology and Parasitology (IMMIP), University Hospital Bonn, 53127 Bonn, Germany; (E.M.); (A.H.)
| | - Simone Kann
- Department of Microbiology and Hospital Hygiene, Bundeswehr Central Hospital Koblenz, 56070 Koblenz, Germany;
- Institute of Medical Microbiology, Immunology and Parasitology (IMMIP), University Hospital Bonn, 53127 Bonn, Germany; (E.M.); (A.H.)
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2
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Huang LS, Yeh YM, Chiu SF, Huang PJ, Chu LJ, Huang CY, Cheng FW, Chen LC, Lin HC, Shih YW, Lin WN, Huang KY. Intestinal microbiota analysis of different Blastocystis subtypes and Blastocystis-negative individuals in Taiwan. Biomed J 2023; 47:100661. [PMID: 37774792 PMCID: PMC11341923 DOI: 10.1016/j.bj.2023.100661] [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: 05/03/2023] [Revised: 08/13/2023] [Accepted: 09/22/2023] [Indexed: 10/01/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Intestinal parasitic infections are the most common infectious diseases among Southeast Asian migrant workers in Taiwan, especially for infections with Blastocystis hominis. However, little is known about the impact of Blastocystis subtypes (STs) on the gut microbiota. METHODS We retrospectively evaluated the prevalence of intestinal parasites in a teaching hospital in Northern Taiwan in the period of 2015-2019. Blastocystis-positive stool specimens were collected for ST analysis by polymerase chain reaction in 2020. Intestinal microbiota analyses of different Blastocystis STs and Blastocystis-free individuals were conducted by 16S rRNA sequencing. RESULTS A total of 13,859 subjects were analyzed, of which 1802 cases (13%) were diagnosed with intestinal parasitic infections. B. hominis infections were the most prevalent (n = 1546, 85.7%). ST analysis of Blastocystis-positive samples (n = 150) indicated that ST1 was the most common type, followed by ST3, ST4, ST2, ST7, and ST5. Different Blastocystis STs (ST1, ST3, and ST4) were associated with distinct richness and diversity of the microbiota. Taxonomic profiles revealed that Akkermansia muciniphila was significantly enriched for all analyzed Blastocystis STs, whereas Holdemanella biformis was more abundant in the Blastocystis-free group. Additionally, Succinivibrio dextrinosolvens and Coprococcus eutactus were specifically more abundant in ST3 carriers than in non-infected individuals. CONCLUSION This study demonstrates that A. muciniphila is positively associated with all Blastocystis STs, while H. biformis was negatively associated with them. Several bacteria were enriched in specific STs, highlighting the need for further microbiota analysis at the ST level to elucidate the pathogenicity of Blastocystis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li-San Huang
- Graduate Institute of Pathology and Parasitology, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan; Department of Inspection, Taipei City Hospital, Renai Branch, Taipei, Taiwan; Host-Parasite Interactions Laboratory, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Yuan-Ming Yeh
- Genomic Medicine Core Laboratory, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taoyuan, Taiwan; Graduate Institute of Health Industry Technology, Chang Gung University of Science and Technology, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Shu-Fang Chiu
- Department of Inspection, Taipei City Hospital, Renai Branch, Taipei, Taiwan; Host-Parasite Interactions Laboratory, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan; Graduate Institute of Medical Sciences, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Po-Jung Huang
- Genomic Medicine Core Laboratory, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taoyuan, Taiwan; Department of Biomedical Sciences, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Lichieh Julie Chu
- Graduate Institute of Biomedical Sciences, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan; Molecular Medicine Research Center, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan; Department of Otolaryngology - Head & Neck Surgery, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Linkou, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Ching-Yun Huang
- Host-Parasite Interactions Laboratory, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan; Graduate Institute of Medical Sciences, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Fang-Wen Cheng
- Graduate Institute of Pathology and Parasitology, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan; Host-Parasite Interactions Laboratory, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Lih-Chyang Chen
- Department of Medicine, Mackay Medical College, New Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Hsin-Chung Lin
- Graduate Institute of Pathology and Parasitology, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan; Division of Clinical Pathology, Department of Pathology, Tri-Service General Hospital, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Ya-Wen Shih
- School of Nursing, National Taipei University of Nursing and Health Sciences, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Wei-Ning Lin
- Graduate Institute of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Science, Fu Jen Catholic University, New Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Kuo-Yang Huang
- Graduate Institute of Pathology and Parasitology, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan; Host-Parasite Interactions Laboratory, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan.
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3
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Wongstitwilairoong B, Anothaisintawee T, Ruamsap N, Lertsethtakarn P, Kietsiri P, Oransathid W, Oransathid W, Gonwong S, Silapong S, Suksawad U, Sornsakrin S, Bodhidatta L, Boudreaux DM, Livezey JR. Prevalence of Intestinal Parasitic Infections, Genotypes, and Drug Susceptibility of Giardia lamblia among Preschool and School-Aged Children: A Cross-Sectional Study in Thailand. Trop Med Infect Dis 2023; 8:394. [PMID: 37624332 PMCID: PMC10457730 DOI: 10.3390/tropicalmed8080394] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2023] [Revised: 07/18/2023] [Accepted: 07/21/2023] [Indexed: 08/26/2023] Open
Abstract
This study aimed to estimate the prevalence of intestinal parasitic infections in children and assess the drug susceptibility and genotypes/assemblages of Giardia lamblia in Thailand. This cross-sectional study was conducted among children aged 3-12 years in Sangkhlaburi District, Kanchanaburi Province, Thailand, between 25 September 2017 and 12 January 2018. Parasites were identified by stool microscopic examination, cultivation of intestinal parasitic protozoa, and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Drug susceptibility and genotype of G. lamblia were performed, respectively, by a resazurin assay and Triosephosphate Isomerase A and B genes using modified primers and probes. Among the 661 participants, 445 had an intestinal parasitic infection, resulting in a prevalence of 67.32% (95% CI: 63.60-70.89%). Blastocystis hominis was the most prevalent protozoa infection (49.32%; 95% CI: 45.44-53.22%), while Ascaris lumbricoides was the most prevalent helminth infection (0.91%; 95% CI: 0.33-1.97%). The prevalence of G. lamblia was 17.40%, with genotype B being the most common. According to our study, intestinal parasitic infections were commonly found in Thai children. G. lamblia was the most common pathogenic protozoa infection identified and exhibited less susceptibility to metronidazole compared to furazolidone and mebendazole.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Thunyarat Anothaisintawee
- Department of Bacterial and Parasitic Diseases, US Army Medical Directorate of the Armed Forces Research Institute of Medical Sciences, Bangkok 10120, Thailand; (B.W.); (P.L.); (P.K.); (W.O.); (W.O.); (S.G.); (S.S.); (U.S.); (S.S.); (L.B.); (D.M.B.); (J.R.L.)
| | - Nattaya Ruamsap
- Department of Bacterial and Parasitic Diseases, US Army Medical Directorate of the Armed Forces Research Institute of Medical Sciences, Bangkok 10120, Thailand; (B.W.); (P.L.); (P.K.); (W.O.); (W.O.); (S.G.); (S.S.); (U.S.); (S.S.); (L.B.); (D.M.B.); (J.R.L.)
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4
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Hocke EF, Jamy M, Burki F, Clark CG, Stensvold CR. Unravelling the Phylogeny of a Common Intestinal Protist: Intrageneric Diversity of Endolimax. Protist 2022; 173:125908. [PMID: 36152390 DOI: 10.1016/j.protis.2022.125908] [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: 01/07/2022] [Revised: 06/17/2022] [Accepted: 09/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Endolimax nana is a common endobiont of the human intestine, but members of the genus have also been reported in non-human hosts and in non-intestinal organs. Limited information is available regarding the genetic diversity of Endolimax, which is necessary to delineate species, host specificity and potential differences in clinical impact on the host. Here, we used cloning of PCR products followed by Sanger sequencing and next-generation PacBio Sequencing to obtain Endolimax-related nuclear ribosomal gene sequences and undertook a phylogenetic analysis to gain additional insight into the taxonomy of Endolimax and related organisms. The new sequences confirmed that E. nana forms a discrete clade within the Archamoebae and is related to Endolimax piscium and Iodamoeba. However, we identified substantial sequence divergence within E. nana and evidence for two distinct clades, which we propose to name E. nana ribosomal lineage 1 and E. nana ribosomal lineage 2. Both of the sequencing approaches applied in the study helped us to improve our understanding of genetic diversity across Endolimax, and it is likely that wider application of next-generation sequencing technologies will facilitate the generation of Endolimax-related DNA sequence data and help complete our understanding of its phylogenetic position and intrageneric diversity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma Filtenborg Hocke
- Department of Bacteria, Parasites and Fungi, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Mahwash Jamy
- Department of Organismal Biology, Systematic Biology, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Fabien Burki
- Department of Organismal Biology, Systematic Biology, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden; Science for Life Laboratory, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - C Graham Clark
- Department of Infection Biology, Faculty of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom.
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5
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Cryptosporidium and colorectal cancer: a review of epidemiology and possible association. FORUM OF CLINICAL ONCOLOGY 2022. [DOI: 10.2478/fco-2021-0009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Cryptosporidiosis is an important protozoan disease with serious public health implications. The contribution of Cryptosporidium to colorectal cancer is still vaguely studied, but little evidence from experimental and epidemiological studies has suggested a possible association. This review discusses the epidemiology of cryptosporidiosis and colorectal cancer and attempts to unravel the possible link between the two diseases using epidemiological, pathological, molecular, and immunological evidence. The review stressed the need to undertake more studies in this relatively neglected field.
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6
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Luqman M, Awan MUF, Muhammad S, Daud S, Yousafzai A, Arooj F. Microbial pollution in inland recreational freshwaters of Quetta, Pakistan: an initial report. JOURNAL OF WATER AND HEALTH 2022; 20:575-588. [PMID: 35350009 DOI: 10.2166/wh.2022.291] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Parasitic contamination of surface waters, especially recreational waters, is a serious problem for under-developed nations like Pakistan, where numerous outbreaks of parasitic diseases are reported each year. In the current study, parasitic presence in two surface waters (Hanna Lake and Wali-Tangi Dam) of Quetta was monitored quarterly for 1 year. The methodology involved the pre-concentration of the water samples and the subsequent preparation for the microscopic search of parasites. Physico-chemical and bacteriological variables were also studied. Wet staining, modified Trichrome staining, and modified acid-fast staining methods were used to identify various parasitic forms (cysts, oocysts, eggs, trophozoites). Collectively 11 parasitic elements (10 in Lake and 8 in Dam) belonging to 10 species were recorded, many of which are potential human pathogens. The species identified include Trichomonas sp., Isospora sp., Balantidium coli, Cryptosporidium sp., Entamoeba spp., amoebas, Microsporidium sp., Endolimax nana, Ascaris lumbricoides, and Giardia spp. Parasitic contamination remained persistent in both locations throughout the year independent of physico-chemical parameters (temperature, EC, pH, turbidity, and DO) and bacterial concentration of water. Reliance on bacterial presence for monitoring of recreational waters can be a risk for tourists. Entamoeba spp. and A. lumbricoides may be used for surface water monitoring in these waters.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Luqman
- Department of Environment Sciences, University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Outfall Road, Lahore, Pakistan E-mail:
| | | | - Sohaib Muhammad
- Department of Botany, Government College University, Kachehry Road, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Shakeela Daud
- Department of Biotechnology, BUITEMS, Baleli Road, Quetta, Pakistan
| | - Asma Yousafzai
- Department of Biotechnology, BUITEMS, Baleli Road, Quetta, Pakistan
| | - Fariha Arooj
- Department of Environment Sciences, University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Outfall Road, Lahore, Pakistan E-mail:
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7
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Alzate JF, Toro-Londoño M, Cabarcas F, Garcia-Montoya G, Galvan-Diaz A. Contrasting microbiota profiles observed in children carrying either Blastocystis spp. or the commensal amoebas Entamoeba coli or Endolimax nana. Sci Rep 2020; 10:15354. [PMID: 32948808 PMCID: PMC7501860 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-72286-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2019] [Accepted: 08/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Recent studies have shown how intestinal parasites can modulate gut microbiota. This observation is not surprising since the human intestinal lumen, like any other niche, is a battlefield of microbial competition, and Eukaryotes can affect bacterial populations. Intestinal pathogenic protist has been associated with reshaping the microbial community structure; however, the interactions between the colonic bacterial communities and parasites like Blastocystis spp., Entamoeba coli, and Endolimax nana have been poorly studied. In this work, we studied the distal intestinal bacterial microbiota of 49 children attending 7 public daycare centers in Medellin, Colombia, and compared the bacterial microbiota structure in the presence or absence of the protists Blastocystis spp., E. coli, and E. nana. Parasite colonization was associated with an increase in bacterial richness. Moreover, Blastocystis spp. presented a positive relationship with Prevotella, since this bacterium was selectively enriched in children carrying it. Remarkably, the E. coli colonized children showed a microbial profile that was closer to uninfected controls, although some bacterial taxa displayed to be enriched. This is the case for Akkermansia, which showed to be favored in E. coli colonized individuals, while notably reduced in the Blastocystis spp. parasitized group.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan F Alzate
- Departamento de Microbiología Y Parasitología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Antioquia, Medellín, Colombia.
- Facultad de Medicina, Centro Nacional de Secuenciación genómica - CNSG, Sede de Investigación Universitaria - SIU, Universidad de Antioquia, Medellín, Colombia.
| | - Miguel Toro-Londoño
- Facultad de Medicina, Centro Nacional de Secuenciación genómica - CNSG, Sede de Investigación Universitaria - SIU, Universidad de Antioquia, Medellín, Colombia
| | - Felipe Cabarcas
- Facultad de Medicina, Centro Nacional de Secuenciación genómica - CNSG, Sede de Investigación Universitaria - SIU, Universidad de Antioquia, Medellín, Colombia
- Facultad de Ingeniería, Grupo Sistemic, Universidad de Antioquia, Medellín, Colombia
| | - Gisela Garcia-Montoya
- Departamento de Microbiología Y Parasitología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Antioquia, Medellín, Colombia
| | - Ana Galvan-Diaz
- Grupo de Microbiología Ambiental, Escuela de Microbiología, Universidad de Antioquia, Medellín, Colombia
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8
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Bahrami F, Babaei E, Badirzadeh A, Riabi TR, Abdoli A. Blastocystis, urticaria, and skin disorders: review of the current evidences. Eur J Clin Microbiol Infect Dis 2020; 39:1027-1042. [PMID: 31873864 DOI: 10.1007/s10096-019-03793-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2019] [Accepted: 12/05/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Blastocystis is one of the most common intestinal protozoan parasites worldwide, which is linked to cutaneous lesions and urticaria. In a setting of systematic review, the data on the association of Blastocystis infection with cutaneous lesions were searched in order to summarize the main clinical symptoms, diagnostic methods, treatment, and outcome of the patients. The search identified 28 eligible articles, including 12 cross-sectional studies and 16 case reports/case series (including 23 cases). A diverse spectrum of skin symptoms, mainly urticaria, rash, and itching, was reported from the studies. Of the 23 infected cases with the skin symptoms, gastrointestinal symptoms were reported from the 16 cases, whereas 7 cases with urticaria had asymptomatic infection. The most frequent subtypes were ST1, ST2, and ST3, respectively. Metronidazole, paromomycin, and tinidazole were the most prescribed drugs in patients with single Blastocystis infection. Notably, urticaria and other cutaneous symptoms of all treated patients were resolved after treatment. In conclusion, this study indicates that Blastocystis infection can be a neglected cause of urticaria and skin disorders. Since the treatment of Blastocystis infection is simple, screening and treatment of this infection should be considered in patients with urticaria and other skin disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fares Bahrami
- Zoonoses Research Center, Research Institute for Health Development, Kurdistan University of Medical Sciences, Sanandaj, Iran
| | - Erfan Babaei
- Department of Immunology & Hematology, Kurdistan University of Medical Sciences, Sanandaj, Iran
| | - Alireza Badirzadeh
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Tahereh Rezaei Riabi
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Amir Abdoli
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, Jahrom University of Medical Sciences, Jahrom, Iran.
- Zoonoses Research Center, School of Medicine, Jahrom University of Medical Sciences, 74148-46199, Ostad Motahari Ave, Jahrom, Iran.
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9
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Zahedi A, Greay TL, Paparini A, Linge KL, Joll CA, Ryan UM. Identification of eukaryotic microorganisms with 18S rRNA next-generation sequencing in wastewater treatment plants, with a more targeted NGS approach required for Cryptosporidium detection. WATER RESEARCH 2019; 158:301-312. [PMID: 31051375 DOI: 10.1016/j.watres.2019.04.041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2019] [Revised: 04/02/2019] [Accepted: 04/19/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
While some microbial eukaryotes can improve effluent quality in wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs), eukaryotic waterborne pathogens are a threat to public health. This study aimed to identify Eukarya, particularly faecal pathogens including Cryptosporidium, in different treatment stages (influent, intermediate and effluent) from four WWTPs in Western Australia (WA). Three WWTPs that utilise stabilisation ponds and one WWTP that uses activated sludge (oxidation ditch) treatment technologies were sampled. Eukaryotic 18S rRNA (18S) was targeted in the wastewater samples (n = 26) for next-generation sequencing (NGS), and a mammalian-blocking primer was used to reduce the amplification of mammalian DNA. Overall, bioinformatics analyses revealed 49 eukaryotic phyla in WWTP samples, and three of these phyla contained human intestinal parasites, which were primarily detected in the influent. These human intestinal parasites either had a low percent sequence composition or were not detected in the intermediate and effluent stages and included the amoebozoans Endolimax sp., Entamoeba sp. and Iodamoeba sp., the human pinworm Enterobius vermicularis (Nematoda), and Blastocystis sp. subtypes (Sarcomastigophora). Six Blastocystis subtypes and four Entamoeba species were identified by eukaryotic 18S NGS, however, Cryptosporidium sp. and Giardia sp. were not detected. Real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) also failed to detect Giardia, but Cryptosporidium-specific NGS detected Cryptosporidium in all WWTPs, and a total of nine species were identified, including five zoonotic pathogens. Although eukaryotic 18S NGS was able to identify some faecal pathogens, this study has demonstrated that more specific NGS approaches for pathogen detection are more sensitive and should be applied to future wastewater pathogen assessments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alireza Zahedi
- Vector and Waterborne Pathogens Research Group, School of Veterinary and Life Sciences, Murdoch University, Perth, Western Australia, Australia; Western Australian State Agricultural Biotechnology Centre, Murdoch University, Perth, Western Australia, Australia.
| | - Telleasha L Greay
- Vector and Waterborne Pathogens Research Group, School of Veterinary and Life Sciences, Murdoch University, Perth, Western Australia, Australia; Western Australian State Agricultural Biotechnology Centre, Murdoch University, Perth, Western Australia, Australia.
| | - Andrea Paparini
- Vector and Waterborne Pathogens Research Group, School of Veterinary and Life Sciences, Murdoch University, Perth, Western Australia, Australia.
| | - Kathryn L Linge
- Curtin Water Quality Research Centre, Chemistry, School of Molecular and Life Sciences, Curtin University, GPO Box U1987, Perth, Australia; ChemCentre, PO Box 1250, Perth, Australia.
| | - Cynthia A Joll
- Curtin Water Quality Research Centre, Chemistry, School of Molecular and Life Sciences, Curtin University, GPO Box U1987, Perth, Australia.
| | - Una M Ryan
- Vector and Waterborne Pathogens Research Group, School of Veterinary and Life Sciences, Murdoch University, Perth, Western Australia, Australia.
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10
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Rajamanikam A, Hooi HS, Kudva M, Samudi C, Kumar S. Resistance towards metronidazole in Blastocystis sp.: A pathogenic consequence. PLoS One 2019; 14:e0212542. [PMID: 30794628 PMCID: PMC6386359 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0212542] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2018] [Accepted: 02/05/2019] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Blastocsytis sp. is a protozoan parasite that has been linked to common gastrointestinal illnesses. Metronidazole, the first line therapy, was reported to show frequent inefficacy. Previously, Blastocystis sp. isolated from different population showed varying metronidazole resistance. However, the effect of metronidazole treatment on pathogenic potentials of Blastocystis sp. isolated from different populations, which is known to have different gut environment, is unclear. This study investigates the in vitro effect of metronidazole on the pathogenic potentials of Blastocystis sp. isolated from urban and orang asli individuals. Blastocystis sp. ST 3 isolated from symptomatic and asymptomatic individuals were treated with a range of metronidazole concentration. The parasites’ growth characteristics, apoptotic rate, specific protease activity and the ability to proliferate cancer cells were analyzed upon treatment with 0.001 mg/l metronidazole. The study demonstrates that Blastocystis sp. isolates showed increase in the parasite numbers especially the amoebic forms (only in urban isolates) after treating with metronidazole at the concentration of 0.001 mg/ml. High number of cells in post-treated isolates coincided with increase of apoptosis. There was a significant increase in cysteine protease of Blastocystis sp. isolates upon treatment despite the initial predominance of serine protease in asymptomatic isolates. Metronidazole resistant Blastocystis sp. also showed significant increase in cancer cell proliferation. Resistance to metronidazole did not show significant different influence on the pathogenicity between Blastocystis sp. isolated from urban and orang asli individual. However, an increase in parasite numbers, higher amoebic forms, cysteine protease and ability to proliferate cancer cells implicates a pathogenic role. The study provides evidence for the first time, the effect of metronidazole towards enhancing pathogenic potentials in Blastocystis sp. when isolated from different gut environment. This necessitates the need for reassessment of metronidazole treatment modalities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arutchelvan Rajamanikam
- Depatment of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Ho Shiaw Hooi
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Madhav Kudva
- Gastroenterology and Hepatology Specialist Clinic, Pantai Hospital, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Chandramathi Samudi
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Suresh Kumar
- Depatment of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
- * E-mail:
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11
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Dudlová A, Jarčuška P, Jurišová S, Vasilková Z, Krčméry V, Juriš P. Prevalence of non-pathogenic types of gastrointestinal protozoa in population in Slovakia and their potential importance in the aspect of public health. Acta Parasitol 2018; 63:819-825. [PMID: 30367755 DOI: 10.1515/ap-2018-0100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2017] [Accepted: 08/28/2018] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
The aim of the research was to determine the prevalence of non-pathogenic protozoa circulating in the human population of Slovakia. We particularly focused on the socially deprived areas with poor sanitation conditions, as they are one of the factors affecting the transmission of these infections. Within this study, 2760 people were coprologically screened for the presence of protozoan cysts. The analyzed group comprised 1173 men and 1587 women from different regions of Slovakia. The total prevalence (2.03%) of non-pathogenic protozoa species was determined. The prevalence of Entamoeba coli was 0.80%, the prevalence of Endolimax nana 0.58%, and the prevalence of Blastocystis hominis was 0.65%. The presence of non-pathogenic protozoa was more frequent in women than that in men, in all age groups. The highest incidence of Entamoeba coli was found in children aged one month - seven years (0.79%), the lowest in the age group of 19-88 years (0.66%). Endolimax nana was most frequent in 8-18 year-olds (0.95%), where the statistical significance was found (p<0.05). The prevalence of Blastocystis hominis by the age group ranged from 0.39 to 0.95%. We did not find any statistical significance (p>0.05) for Entamoeba coli, and similarly for Blastocystis hominis associated with the sex and age. Although the circulation of non-pathogenic protozoa in the human population is far from being limited to the developing countries, their occurrence is also frequent in the population of developed countries. Despite their controversial pathogenicity, they should not be neglected, particularly in the patients with gastrointestinal symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adriána Dudlová
- St Elisabeth University of Health Care and Social Work, Námestie 1. mája, 080 00 Bratislava, Slovak Republic
| | - Pavol Jarčuška
- Department of Infectology and Travel Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of P. J. Šafárik, Rastislavova 43, 041 90 Košice, Slovak Republic
| | - Silvia Jurišová
- National Cancer Institute, Klenova 3019/1, 833 10 Bratislava, Slovak Republic
| | - Zuzana Vasilková
- Institute of Parasitology, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Hlinkova 3, 040 01 Košice, Slovak Republic
| | - Vladimír Krčméry
- St Elisabeth University of Health Care and Social Work, Námestie 1. mája, 080 00 Bratislava, Slovak Republic
| | - Peter Juriš
- Department of Epidemiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of P. J. Šafárik, Šrobárova 2, 041 80 Košice, Slovak Republic
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Rajamanikam A, Kumar S, Samudi C, Kudva M. Exacerbated symptoms in Blastocystis sp.-infected patients treated with metronidazole: two case studies. Parasitol Res 2018; 117:2585-2590. [PMID: 29872961 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-018-5948-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2017] [Accepted: 05/24/2018] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Blastocystis sp. is a gastrointestinal (GI) protozoan parasite reported to cause non-specific GI symptoms including diarrhea, flatulence, abdominal pain, and nausea. Complete eradication of Blastocystis sp. is rather challenging even with the drug of choice, i.e., metronidazole. Here, we report on two Blastocystis sp.-infected individuals, who presented increased parasite load and exacerbated symptoms upon treatment with the usual recommended dosage and regime of metronidazole. The two studies uniquely demonstrate for the first time a cyst count as high as fivefold more than the original cyst count before treatment and show an exacerbation of GI symptoms despite treatment. The study provides additional support in recognizing metronidazole resistance in Blastocystis sp. and its consequences towards the pathogenicity of the parasite.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arutchelvan Rajamanikam
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, 50603, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Suresh Kumar
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, 50603, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
| | - Chandramathi Samudi
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Madhav Kudva
- Gastroenterology and Hepatology Specialist Clinic, Pantai Hospital, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
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Liao CW, Chuang TW, Huang YC, Chou CM, Chiang CL, Lee FP, Hsu YT, Lin JW, Briand K, Tu CY, Fan CK. Intestinal parasitic infections: Current prevalence and risk factors among schoolchildren in capital area of the Republic of Marshall Islands. Acta Trop 2017; 176:242-248. [PMID: 28847672 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2017.08.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2017] [Revised: 08/12/2017] [Accepted: 08/21/2017] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Intestinal parasitic infections (IPIs) among schoolchildren in Republic of Marshall Islands (RMI) largely remains unknown, thus investigation on IPIs status to establish the baseline data is urgently needed. This cross-sectional study intended to investigate the current IPIs status and associated risk factors among schoolchildren at capital of RMI. Single stool sample from 400 schoolchildren (207 boys and 193 girls) aged 9.73±2.50 yrs old was examined by employing merthiolate-iodine-formaldehyde concentration method. Demographic characteristics, uncomfortable symptoms and risk factors were obtained by questionnaires investigation. The overall prevalence of IPIs in schoolchildren was 22.8% (91/400), of them 24.2% harbored at least 2 different parasites. Notably, the majority was infected by waterborne protozoan parasites (82.4%, 75/91). Nine different intestinal parasites have been identified, of which six were pathogenic including Hook worm, Trichuris trichiura, Enterobius vermicularis, Entamoeba histolytica/dispar, Giardia intestinalis and Blastocystis hominis. Schoolchildren who ever complained dizziness or headache showed a significant higher prevalence of pathogenic IPIs than those who did not (p<0.05). Schoolchildren who lived in urban area than rural area had higher chance to acquire pathogenic IPIs (p=0.03). However, none of risk factors were identified to be associated with pathogenic IPIs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chien-Wei Liao
- Department of Molecular Parasitology and Tropical Diseases, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan; Graduate Institute of Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan; Division of Tropical Medicine, International Master/PhD Program in Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan; Master Program in Global Health and Development, College of Public Health, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Ting-Wu Chuang
- Department of Molecular Parasitology and Tropical Diseases, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan; Graduate Institute of Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan; Division of Tropical Medicine, International Master/PhD Program in Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan; Master Program in Global Health and Development, College of Public Health, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Ying-Chieh Huang
- Department of Molecular Parasitology and Tropical Diseases, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Chia-Mei Chou
- Department of Molecular Parasitology and Tropical Diseases, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Chia-Lien Chiang
- Graduate Institute of Forensic Medicine, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Fei-Peng Lee
- Superintendent Office, Taipei Medical University-Shuang-Ho Hospital, New Taipei City, Taiwan
| | - Yun-Ting Hsu
- Taiwan Health Center in Majuro, Ministry of Health, Republic of the Marshall Islands
| | - Jia-Wei Lin
- Department of International Medical Affairs, Taipei Medical University-Shuang-Ho Hospital, New Taipei City, Taiwan
| | - Kennar Briand
- Department of Public Health, Ministry of Health, Republic of the Marshall Islands
| | - Chia-Ying Tu
- Department of International Medical Affairs, Taipei Medical University-Shuang-Ho Hospital, New Taipei City, Taiwan
| | - Chia-Kwung Fan
- Department of Molecular Parasitology and Tropical Diseases, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan; Graduate Institute of Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan; Division of Tropical Medicine, International Master/PhD Program in Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan; Master Program in Global Health and Development, College of Public Health, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan.
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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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Roberts T, Stark D, Harkness J, Ellis J. Update on the pathogenic potential and treatment options for Blastocystis sp. Gut Pathog 2014; 6:17. [PMID: 24883113 PMCID: PMC4039988 DOI: 10.1186/1757-4749-6-17] [Citation(s) in RCA: 100] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2014] [Accepted: 05/15/2014] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Although Blastocystis is one of the most common enteric parasites, there is still much controversy surrounding the pathogenicity and potential treatment options for this parasite. In this review we look at the evidence supporting Blastocystis as an intestinal pathogen as shown by numerous case studies and several in vivo studies and the evidence against. We describe the chronic nature of some infections and show the role of Blastocystis in immunocompromised patients and the relationship between irritable bowel syndrome and Blastocystis infection. There have been several studies that have suggested that pathogenicity may be subtype related. Metronidazole is the most widely accepted treatment for Blastocystis but several cases of treatment failure and resistance have been described. Other treatment options which have been suggested include paromomycin and trimethroprim- sulfamethoxazole.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tamalee Roberts
- Department of Microbiology, St. Vincent's Hospital, Victoria St, Darlinghurst 2010, NSW, Australia ; School of Medical and Molecular Biosciences, University of Technology, Sydney, Ultimo, NSW 2007, Australia
| | - Damien Stark
- Department of Microbiology, St. Vincent's Hospital, Victoria St, Darlinghurst 2010, NSW, Australia
| | - John Harkness
- Department of Microbiology, St. Vincent's Hospital, Victoria St, Darlinghurst 2010, NSW, Australia
| | - John Ellis
- School of Medical and Molecular Biosciences, University of Technology, Sydney, Ultimo, NSW 2007, Australia
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Cacciabue DG, Juárez MM, Poma HR, Garcé B, Rajal VB. Cuantificación y evaluación de la estacionalidad de elementos parasitarios en ambientes acuáticos recreativos de la provincia de Salta, Argentina. Rev Argent Microbiol 2014; 46:150-60. [DOI: 10.1016/s0325-7541(14)70064-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2014] [Accepted: 05/22/2014] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
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17
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[Intestinal parasitoses in Argentina: major causal agents found in the population and in the environment]. Rev Argent Microbiol 2013; 45:191-204. [PMID: 24165144 DOI: 10.1016/s0325-7541(13)70024-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Intestinal parasitic diseases are widely spread in the world, with the highest prevalence in developing countries. Children are mainly affected, showing a decrease in physical and mental development, as well as the expected manifestations of the disease. This situation can be greatly enhanced in children with poor nutritional status. The World Health Organization considers intestinal parasitic diseases a major cause of morbidity, closely linked to poverty and poor personal hygiene, inappropriate handling of raw food, lack of sanitation, lack of potable water supply, and environmental fecal contamination. Some parasitic diseases are cosmopolitan while others have variable geographic distribution, due to different factors such as the presence of exclusive intermediate hosts. In the past few years, globalization allowed the spread of certain parasites from endemic to non-endemic regions. Even though people's customs influence on the frequency of certain parasites, environmental conditions are a determinant factor for parasite survival. In our country, due to the variety of soils and climatic conditions, several causative agents of these parasitoses can be found. The aim of this work was to review the literature on the intestinal parasitic agents found in Argentina in human fecal samples and its environment, as parasitic contamination constitutes a direct indicator of the infection risk by intestinal parasites.
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