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Guilane A, Haleche I, Tazerouti F, Ziam H, Kernif T, Boutellis A. New Haplotypes of Blastocystis sp. Identified in Faeces from Various Animal Groups in Algeria. Acta Parasitol 2024:10.1007/s11686-024-00857-4. [PMID: 38829474 DOI: 10.1007/s11686-024-00857-4] [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: 01/08/2024] [Accepted: 05/13/2024] [Indexed: 06/05/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE Blastocystis sp. is a single-celled, anaerobic, parasitic protozoan commonly found in the intestinal tract of animals and humans globally. Genetic analysis has revealed significant diversity within its species, leading to the identification of at least 40 subtypes (ST1-ST40). This study aimed to identify and differentiate Blastocystis in faeces samples from various animal hosts in Algeria. METHODS A total of 403 fecal samples, collected from both domestic and zoo animals, were subjected to PCR amplification and sequencing of Blastocystis-specific small subunit ribosomal RNA (SSU-RNA) gene. RESULTS The overall prevalence of Blastocystis in animals was found to be 38.9%. Through comprehensive phylogenetic and phylogeographic analyses, we identified four distinct subtypes (ST1 in both domestic and zoo animals, and ST3, ST4, and ST5 exclusively in zoo animals), encompassing nine different haplotypes, including five that appear original to Algeria. CONCLUSION This study represents the first epidemiological molecular investigation of Blastocystis sp. in animals in Algeria.
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Affiliation(s)
- Asma Guilane
- Laboratory of Biodiversity and Environment: Interactions, Genome, Biology Faculty, University of Science and Technology Houari Boumediene, Algiers, Algeria
- Laboratory of Parasitic Eco-Epidemiology and Population Genetics, Pasteur Institute of Algeria, Dely-Brahim, 16000, Algiers, Algeria
| | - Ikram Haleche
- Laboratory of Parasitic Eco-Epidemiology and Population Genetics, Pasteur Institute of Algeria, Dely-Brahim, 16000, Algiers, Algeria
- Laboratory of Biotechnology, Environment and Health, University of Blida 1, Blida, Algeria
| | - Fadila Tazerouti
- Laboratory of Biodiversity and Environment: Interactions, Genome, Biology Faculty, University of Science and Technology Houari Boumediene, Algiers, Algeria
| | - Hocine Ziam
- Laboratory of Biotechnology, Environment and Health, University of Blida 1, Blida, Algeria
| | - Tahar Kernif
- Laboratory of Parasitic Eco-Epidemiology and Population Genetics, Pasteur Institute of Algeria, Dely-Brahim, 16000, Algiers, Algeria
| | - Amina Boutellis
- Laboratory of Biodiversity and Environment: Interactions, Genome, Biology Faculty, University of Science and Technology Houari Boumediene, Algiers, Algeria.
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Shan F, Wang F, Chang S, Wang N, Liu Y, Chen X, Zhao G, Zhang L. Predominance of the Blastocystis subtype ST5 among free-living sympatric rodents within pig farms in China suggests a novel transmission route from farms. One Health 2024; 18:100723. [PMID: 38623498 PMCID: PMC11017045 DOI: 10.1016/j.onehlt.2024.100723] [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: 12/22/2023] [Accepted: 04/03/2024] [Indexed: 04/17/2024] Open
Abstract
Blastocystis is a parasitic protist that can infect humans and various domestic and wild animals. However, there is limited research on the prevalence of this parasite among rodents, particularly those living in pig farm settings. Therefore, to investigate the occurrence, molecular characterization, and zoonotic potential of Blastocystis among rodents within pig farm environments, we conducted an investigation of 227 rodents and shrews from 34 pig farms located in Henan, Shaanxi, and Shanxi provinces of China using nested PCR of the SSU rRNA gene of Blastocystis. The potential transmission and public health implications were also assessed from a One Health perspective. Blastocystis was detected in 86 (37.9%) fecal samples. The highest infection rate was observed among Ruttus norvegicus (73.7%, 42/58), followed by Ruttus tanezumi (30.1%, 41/136), and Mus musculus (12.0%, 3/25). However, it was not detected among individuals with Apodemus agrarius (n = 1) and Crocidura shantungensis (n = 7). Five known zoonotic Blastocystis subtypes (ST1-ST5) were identified, with ST4 (51.2%, 44/86) and ST5 (40.7%, 35/86) being the predominant ones, followed by ST1 (3.5%, 3/86), ST3 (3.5%, 3/86), and ST2 (1.2%, 1/86). ST4 was prevalent among R. norvegicus (83.3%, 35/42), while ST5 dominated R. tanezumi (70.7%, 29/41). Furthermore, ST5 exhibited the widest distribution at pig farm level, accounting for 65.0% (13/20) of Blastocystis-positive pig farms. This investigation presents the first documented Blastocystis infection in R. tanezumi and M. musculus, highlighting the predominant presence of the zoonotic ST5 subtype in rodents for the first time. The results demonstrate that sympatric rodents can serve as natural reservoirs for Blastocystis and play a role in its transmission. These findings provide information on the dynamics of rodent transmission and emphasize the potential public health threat posed by zoonotic Blastocystis subtypes spillover from pig farms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fa Shan
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling 712100, China
| | - Fang Wang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou 450046, China
- Key Laboratory of Quality and Safety Control of Poultry Products (Zhengzhou), Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Zhengzhou 450046, China
- International Joint Research Laboratory for Zoonotic Diseases of Henan, Zhengzhou 450046, China
| | - Shengke Chang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou 450046, China
- Key Laboratory of Quality and Safety Control of Poultry Products (Zhengzhou), Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Zhengzhou 450046, China
- International Joint Research Laboratory for Zoonotic Diseases of Henan, Zhengzhou 450046, China
| | - Nanhao Wang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou 450046, China
- Key Laboratory of Quality and Safety Control of Poultry Products (Zhengzhou), Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Zhengzhou 450046, China
- International Joint Research Laboratory for Zoonotic Diseases of Henan, Zhengzhou 450046, China
| | - Yufeng Liu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou 450046, China
- Key Laboratory of Quality and Safety Control of Poultry Products (Zhengzhou), Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Zhengzhou 450046, China
- International Joint Research Laboratory for Zoonotic Diseases of Henan, Zhengzhou 450046, China
| | - Xi Chen
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling 712100, China
| | - Guanghui Zhao
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling 712100, China
| | - Longxian Zhang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou 450046, China
- Key Laboratory of Quality and Safety Control of Poultry Products (Zhengzhou), Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Zhengzhou 450046, China
- International Joint Research Laboratory for Zoonotic Diseases of Henan, Zhengzhou 450046, China
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Adao DEV, Rivera WL. Subtype-host patterns and genetic differentiation of Blastocystis sp. in the Philippines. Heliyon 2024; 10:e29019. [PMID: 38601700 PMCID: PMC11004820 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e29019] [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: 09/20/2023] [Revised: 03/27/2024] [Accepted: 03/28/2024] [Indexed: 04/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Blastocystis sp. is a gastrointestinal protozoan commonly encountered in humans and animals. Specificity to certain hosts may be associated with 38 known subtypes (STs) and 8 nonmammalian and avian STs (NMASTs). This can be determined by analyzing ST-host associations, ST-allele data, genetic variability analyses, and fixation index (FST) with sufficient data present. Thus, newly acquired and previously published data on Blastocystis sp. STs and NMASTs from the Philippines were compiled to determine the following: (1) ST-host associations, (2) ST-allele diversity per ST in certain hosts/sources, (3) intrasubtype diversity of certain STs found in different hosts using genetic variability analysis, and (4) comparison of similarities between specific ST populations to determine if these are the same circulating populations using FST. A total of 448 samples subtyped using both sequence-tagged site primers and the 600-bp barcoding region of the Blastocystis sp. SSU rRNA gene were analyzed in this study. Patterns of association for the Philippine samples were similar to those from neighboring Southeast Asian countries and around the world: ST1-ST4 were found in humans but ST3 was the most common, ST5 were found in pigs, and ST6 and ST7 were found in poultry. Blastocystis sp. from humans are mostly the same ST alleles (ST3 allele 34 and ST1 allele 4) while 3-5 ST alleles were found in the most common STs in pigs, macaques, and poultry. Also, ST1, ST3, ST5, and NMAST I are undergoing population expansion according to genetic variability analyses through possible addition of new alleles based on ST-allele diversity. Moreover, FST shows the same circulating population of ST1 in humans, pigs, and water indicating a possible waterborne route of cross-transmission. In contrast, ST3 found in humans possibly come from the same circulating population and is genetically distinct from those in nonhuman sources.
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Affiliation(s)
- Davin Edric V. Adao
- Pathogen–Host–Environment Interactions Research Laboratory, Institute of Biology, College of Science, University of the Philippines Diliman, Quezon City, 1101, Philippines
| | - Windell L. Rivera
- Pathogen–Host–Environment Interactions Research Laboratory, Institute of Biology, College of Science, University of the Philippines Diliman, Quezon City, 1101, Philippines
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Feng X, Xin L, Zhang B, Wang Z, Meng Z, Yu F, Qi M. Molecular characterization of Blastocystis spp. in Hotan Black chickens in southern Xinjiang. J Eukaryot Microbiol 2024; 71:e13012. [PMID: 37975433 DOI: 10.1111/jeu.13012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2023] [Revised: 11/07/2023] [Accepted: 11/07/2023] [Indexed: 11/19/2023]
Abstract
To determine the infection status and assess the zoonotic potential of Blastocystis spp. in Hotan Black chickens in southern Xinjiang, China, fecal samples were collected from 617 chickens on 18 large-scale farms. The presence of Blastocystis spp. was determined using polymerase chain reaction based on the small subunit rRNA (SSU rRNA) locus. The results revealed an overall infection rate of 26.3% (162/617). Samples from Farm 1 in Luopu County showed the highest infection rate (76.3%, 29/38). The highest and lowest infection rates were detected in the <30-day (34.4%, 43/125) and > 90-day age groups (12.4%, 11/89), respectively. The infection rate decreased with increasing age. Statistical analysis showed significant differences in the infection rates of Blastocystis spp. among the different sampling sites (p < 0.05) and age groups (p < 0.05). Four Blastocystis spp. subtypes (ST6, ST7, ST10, and ST23) were identified. The infection rates of the zoonotic subtypes, ST6 and ST7, were 3.2% (20/617) and 22.2% (137/617), respectively. The presence of Blastocystis spp. and zoonotic subtypes provided evidence for the potential transmission of this pathogen between Hotan Black chickens and humans, especially in animal handlers in this area.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinwei Feng
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Tarim University, Xinjiang, China
- Tarim Animal Disease Diagnosis and Control Engineering Laboratory of Xinjiang Production and Construction Corps, Xinjiang, China
| | - Luyao Xin
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Tarim University, Xinjiang, China
- Tarim Animal Disease Diagnosis and Control Engineering Laboratory of Xinjiang Production and Construction Corps, Xinjiang, China
| | - Bowen Zhang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Tarim University, Xinjiang, China
- Tarim Animal Disease Diagnosis and Control Engineering Laboratory of Xinjiang Production and Construction Corps, Xinjiang, China
| | - Zhichao Wang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Tarim University, Xinjiang, China
- Tarim Animal Disease Diagnosis and Control Engineering Laboratory of Xinjiang Production and Construction Corps, Xinjiang, China
| | - Zhu Meng
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Tarim University, Xinjiang, China
- Tarim Animal Disease Diagnosis and Control Engineering Laboratory of Xinjiang Production and Construction Corps, Xinjiang, China
| | - Fuchang Yu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Tarim University, Xinjiang, China
- Tarim Animal Disease Diagnosis and Control Engineering Laboratory of Xinjiang Production and Construction Corps, Xinjiang, China
| | - Meng Qi
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Tarim University, Xinjiang, China
- Tarim Animal Disease Diagnosis and Control Engineering Laboratory of Xinjiang Production and Construction Corps, Xinjiang, China
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Fusaro C, Bernal JE, Baldiris-Ávila R, González-Cuello R, Cisneros-Lorduy J, Reales-Ruiz A, Castro-Orozco R, Sarria-Guzmán Y. Molecular Prevalence and Subtypes Distribution of Blastocystis spp. in Humans of Latin America: A Systematic Review. Trop Med Infect Dis 2024; 9:38. [PMID: 38393127 PMCID: PMC10893338 DOI: 10.3390/tropicalmed9020038] [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: 12/19/2023] [Revised: 01/21/2024] [Accepted: 01/24/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Blastocystis spp. are among the few enteric parasites with a prevalence that can reach up to approximately 80% in communities of developing countries. This systematic review updates and summarizes available literature on the molecular prevalence and subtype distribution of Blastocystis spp. in Latin American people. This work follows the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines. The literature revised covers from 1 January 2015 to 6 October 2023 in seven different scientific databases, and the material was selected through inclusion and exclusion criteria. According to data found in the 36 selected articles, the prevalence of Blastocystis spp. in Latin America ranged between 5.8% (Bolivian rural communities) and 94.0% (Colombian general public). Generally, genomic DNA was extracted from approximately 200 mg fecal sediments using commercial kits, such as the QIAamp Stool Mini Kit (QIAGEN, Hilden, Germany) or the Norgen Stool DNA Isolation Kit (Norgen Biotek Corporation, Thorold, ON, Canada). Subtype-specific primers (such as the couple of primers BhRDr-RD5) developed from unique sequences of the SSU rRNA gene were applied to Blastocystis subtyping. Ten specific subtypes (STs) were found as well as various mixed infections, and the most circulating Blastocystis STs were in the order ST3, ST1, ST2, and ST4. The most recent data about Blastocystis spp. molecular epidemiology and the STs in communities of Latin America are limited to studies from specific countries. Novel scientific data from the other countries are required to obtain a complete picture and truly understand the distribution and prevalence of Blastocystis spp. and the STs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carmine Fusaro
- Facultad de Ingenierías, Universidad de San Buenaventura, Cartagena de Indias, Bolivar 130010, Colombia; (C.F.); (J.C.-L.); (A.R.-R.)
| | - Jaime E. Bernal
- Facultad de Medicina, Universidad del Sinú, Cartagena de Indias, Bolivar 130001, Colombia;
| | - Rosa Baldiris-Ávila
- Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Universidad de Cartagena, Cartagena de Indias, Bolivar 13001, Colombia;
| | - Rafael González-Cuello
- Facultad de Ingeniería, Universidad de Cartagena, Cartagena de Indias, Bolivar 130015, Colombia;
| | - Julio Cisneros-Lorduy
- Facultad de Ingenierías, Universidad de San Buenaventura, Cartagena de Indias, Bolivar 130010, Colombia; (C.F.); (J.C.-L.); (A.R.-R.)
| | - Arley Reales-Ruiz
- Facultad de Ingenierías, Universidad de San Buenaventura, Cartagena de Indias, Bolivar 130010, Colombia; (C.F.); (J.C.-L.); (A.R.-R.)
| | - Raimundo Castro-Orozco
- Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad de San Buenaventura, Cartagena de Indias, Bolivar 130010, Colombia;
| | - Yohanna Sarria-Guzmán
- Facultad de Ingeniería, Universidad de Cartagena, Cartagena de Indias, Bolivar 130015, Colombia;
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Rudzińska M, Sikorska K. Epidemiology of Blastocystis Infection: A Review of Data from Poland in Relation to Other Reports. Pathogens 2023; 12:1050. [PMID: 37624010 PMCID: PMC10458783 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens12081050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2023] [Revised: 08/10/2023] [Accepted: 08/12/2023] [Indexed: 08/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Blastocystis is a common gut protist of humans and various animals worldwide, with a high level of genetic diversity. Neither its zoonotic potential and transmission routes nor its pathogenicity are fully known. This fact, and the fact that Blastocystis is the most abundant eukaryote in human faeces, raises the question of its relevance to public health. Here, we summarise (in relation to other reports) the results of studies on the prevalence and genotypic variation of Blastocystis, which were carried out in animals, humans, and in water environments in Poland. In humans, the prevalence ranged between 0.14 and 23.6%, in some animals reached 58.97%, and in water environments was 5.1%. Seven subtypes were identified in humans (ST1-ST4, ST6, ST7, and ST9), of which ST3 was the most common. Among animals (wild, livestock, and pet animals), eleven STs were identified, with differential host specificity. Humans and animals shared ST1, ST2, ST3, ST6, and ST7, while ST1 and ST3 were present in humans, animals, and water sources. These observations indicate the possibility of Blastocystis transmission between animals and humans. Further studies should be continued in search of the sources and transmission routes of Blastocystis in order to prevent the spread of infections among humans and animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monika Rudzińska
- Department of Tropical Medicine and Epidemiology, Faculty of Health Sciences, Medical University of Gdańsk, 80-210 Gdańsk, Poland;
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Rondón S, Cavallero S, Link A, González C, D'Amelio S. Prevalence and Molecular Characterisation of Blastocystis sp. Infecting Free-Ranging Primates in Colombia. Pathogens 2023; 12:pathogens12040569. [PMID: 37111455 PMCID: PMC10143058 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens12040569] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2023] [Revised: 04/04/2023] [Accepted: 04/05/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Infection with Blastocystis sp. has been reported in free-living and captive non-human primates (NHPs); however, surveys on Blastocystis sp. from north-western South America are scarce. This study aimed to identify Blastocystis sp. in free-ranging NHPs living in Colombia. A total of 212 faecal samples were collected from Ateles hybridus, Cebus versicolor, Alouatta seniculus, Aotus griseimembra, Sapajus apella, and Saimiri cassiquiarensis. Smears and flotation were used for morphological identification. For samples microscopically classified as positive for Blastocystis sp., we used conventional PCR to amplify and sequence two regions of the SSU rRNA gene and used Maximum Likelihood methods and Median Joining Network analyses for phylogenetic analyses. Via microscopy, 64 samples were Blastocystis sp. positive. Through molecular analyses, 18 sequences of Blastocystis sp. subtype 8 (ST8) were obtained. Strain and allele assignment together with a comparative phylogenetic approach confirmed that the sequences were ST8. Alleles 21, 156, and 157 were detected. Median Joining network analyses showed one highly frequent haplotype shared by specimens from Colombia and Peru and close relationships between haplotypes circulating in NHPs from Colombia, Ecuador, Brazil, and Mexico. This survey could support the elaboration of a more accurate epidemiological picture of the Blastocystis sp. infecting NHPs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Rondón
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, Piazzale Aldo Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Serena Cavallero
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, Piazzale Aldo Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Andrés Link
- Laboratorio de Ecología de Bosques Tropicales y Primatología (LEBTYP), Departamento de Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad de los Andes, Cra. 1 N° 18a-12, Bogotá 111711, Colombia
| | - Camila González
- Centro de Investigaciones en Microbiología y Parasitología Tropical (CIMPAT), Departamento de Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad de los Andes, Cra. 1 N° 18a-12, Bogotá 111711, Colombia
| | - Stefano D'Amelio
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, Piazzale Aldo Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy
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Jiménez P, Muñoz M, Ramírez JD. An update on the distribution of Blastocystis subtypes in the Americas. Heliyon 2022; 8:e12592. [PMID: 36619449 PMCID: PMC9816782 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2022.e12592] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2022] [Revised: 07/07/2022] [Accepted: 12/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Blastocystis is an intestinal protist that presents worldwide distribution, colonizes animal and human hosts, and is classified into at least 34 ribosomal subtypes (STs). Herein, we conducted an update based on studies reporting Blastocystis-positive samples obtained from diverse hosts in the Americas. We described the distribution throughout the continent by assembling maps representing the distribution of STs and the most important 18S-rRNA alleles. Thirty-nine articles from the previous study, "A summary of Blastocystis subtypes in North and South America," and forty-one additional articles from March 2019 to March 2022 were considered. The most common subtype described was ST3, representing the highest percentage of positive samples. Other recently identified STs include ST12, ST13, and ST16 in humans, and ST10, ST14, and ST17 in animals. Novel subtypes have also been described in this continent. We assembled and updated the distribution of Blastocystis in the Americas. We hope this delivers new understandings and knowledge of this microorganism's prevalence and genetic diversity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paula Jiménez
- Centro de Investigaciones en Microbiología y Biotecnología-UR (CIMBIUR), Facultad de Ciencias Naturales, Universidad del Rosario, Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Marina Muñoz
- Centro de Investigaciones en Microbiología y Biotecnología-UR (CIMBIUR), Facultad de Ciencias Naturales, Universidad del Rosario, Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Juan David Ramírez
- Centro de Investigaciones en Microbiología y Biotecnología-UR (CIMBIUR), Facultad de Ciencias Naturales, Universidad del Rosario, Bogotá, Colombia,Molecular Microbiology Laboratory, Department of Pathology, Molecular and Cell-based Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York City, NY, USA,Corresponding author.,
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Abu A, Sutthikornchai C, Mahittikorn A, Koompapong K, Chiabchalard R, Arthan D, Soonthornworasiri N, Popruk S. Prevalence and Subtype Distribution of Blastocystis Isolated from School-Aged Children in the Thai-Myanmar Border, Ratchaburi Province, Thailand. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 20:204. [PMID: 36612533 PMCID: PMC9819352 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20010204] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2022] [Revised: 12/19/2022] [Accepted: 12/20/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Blastocystis is one of the most common enteric protozoa that inhabits the intestinal tract of humans and different animals. Moreover, it has a worldwide geographic distribution. Its main mode of transmission is via the fecal-oral route. At present, 26 subtypes are widely distributed across both humans and animals. The current study aimed to determine the prevalence and subtype distribution of Blastocystis among school-aged children living on the Thai-Myanmar border, Ratchaburi province, Thailand. In total, 508 samples were collected from children at six schools. The prevalence of Blastocystis infection was amplified and sequenced in the 600 bp barcode region of the small-subunit ribosomal RNA (SSU rRNA). The overall prevalence of Blastocystis infection was 3.35% (17/508). ST3 (11/17) was the most predominant subtype, followed by ST1 (5/17) and ST2 (1/17). A phylogenetic tree was constructed based on the Tamura92+G+I model using the maximum-likelihood algorithm. Surprisingly, all sequences of the ST3-positive samples were closely correlated with the cattle-derived sequence. Meanwhile, all sequences of the Blastocystis ST1-positive samples were closely correlated with the human-derived sequence. Nevertheless, further studies should be conducted to validate the zoonotic transmission of Blastocystis. Based on our findings, personal hygiene and sanitation should be improved to promote better health in children in this area.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanee Abu
- Department of Protozoology, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, 420/6 Ratchawithi Road, Bangkok 10400, Thailand
| | - Chantira Sutthikornchai
- Department of Protozoology, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, 420/6 Ratchawithi Road, Bangkok 10400, Thailand
| | - Aongart Mahittikorn
- Department of Protozoology, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, 420/6 Ratchawithi Road, Bangkok 10400, Thailand
| | - Khuanchai Koompapong
- Department of Protozoology, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, 420/6 Ratchawithi Road, Bangkok 10400, Thailand
| | - Rachatawan Chiabchalard
- Department of Protozoology, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, 420/6 Ratchawithi Road, Bangkok 10400, Thailand
| | - Dumrongkiet Arthan
- Department of Tropical Nutrition and Food Science, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, 420/6 Ratchawithi Road, Bangkok 10400, Thailand
| | - Ngamphol Soonthornworasiri
- Department of Tropical Hygiene, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, 420/6 Ratchawithi Road, Bangkok 10400, Thailand
| | - Supaluk Popruk
- Department of Protozoology, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, 420/6 Ratchawithi Road, Bangkok 10400, Thailand
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Barati M, KarimiPourSaryazdi A, Rahmanian V, Bahadory S, Abdoli A, Rezanezhad H, Solhjoo K, Taghipour A. Global prevalence and subtype distribution of Blastocystis sp. in rodents, birds, and water supplies: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Prev Vet Med 2022; 208:105770. [PMID: 36181747 DOI: 10.1016/j.prevetmed.2022.105770] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2022] [Revised: 09/21/2022] [Accepted: 09/23/2022] [Indexed: 10/31/2022]
Abstract
Animals such as rodents and birds may play a key role in the distribution of Blastocystis sp., either as introducers of the parasite into the water or as receptors of an infection already established in the water. Hence, we aimed to evaluate the prevalence and subtype distributions of Blastocystis sp. in rodents, birds, and water supplies at a global scale through a systematic review and meta-analysis approach. The standard protocol of preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses (PRISMA) statements were applied. Eligible prevalence studies on Blastocystis sp. in rodents, birds, and water supplies, published between 1 January 2000 and 20 January 2022 were collected using a systematic literature search in online databases (Scopus and Web of Science) and search engines (PubMed and Google Scholar). Inclusion and exclusion criteria were followed. The point estimates and 95% confidence intervals (CI) were calculated using a random-effects model. The variances between studies (heterogeneity) were computed by I2 index. In total, 20 articles (24 datasets) for birds, 18 articles (18 datasets) for rodents, and 10 articles (12 datasets) for water supply were included for the final meta-analysis. The pooled prevalence of Blastocystis sp. in birds, rodents, and water was estimated to be 29% (95% CI 12-47%), 18% (95% CI 12-23%), and 10% (95% CI 6%-15%), respectively. Considering the subtypes, Blastocystis sp. with subtypes ST7 in birds, ST4 in rodents, and ST1 in water supplies were the highest reported subtypes. The present results highlight the role of birds, rodents, and water as a reservoir for human-infected Blastocystis sp. Therefore, this global estimate could be beneficial for preventive and control measures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Barati
- Infectious Diseases Research Center, AJA University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Amir KarimiPourSaryazdi
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Vahid Rahmanian
- Research Center for Social Determinants of Health, Jahrom University of Medical Sciences, Jahrom, Iran
| | - Saeed Bahadory
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Amir Abdoli
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, Jahrom University of Medical Sciences, Jahrom, Iran; Zoonoses Research Center, Jahrom University of Medical Sciences, Jahrom, Iran.
| | - Hassan Rezanezhad
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, Jahrom University of Medical Sciences, Jahrom, Iran; Zoonoses Research Center, Jahrom University of Medical Sciences, Jahrom, Iran
| | - Kavous Solhjoo
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, Jahrom University of Medical Sciences, Jahrom, Iran; Zoonoses Research Center, Jahrom University of Medical Sciences, Jahrom, Iran
| | - Ali Taghipour
- Zoonoses Research Center, Jahrom University of Medical Sciences, Jahrom, Iran.
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Ni Q, Dong S, Fan Y, Wan W, Teng P, Zhu S, Liang X, Xu H, Yao Y, Zhang M, Xie M. Molecular Epidemiology of Blastocystis in Confined Slow Lorises, Macaques, and Gibbons. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:2992. [PMID: 36359116 PMCID: PMC9656527 DOI: 10.3390/ani12212992] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2022] [Revised: 10/19/2022] [Accepted: 10/25/2022] [Indexed: 09/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Blastocystis sp. is a common intestinal anaerobic parasite infecting non-human primates and many other animals. This taxon threatens the health of NHPs due to its high genetic diversity, impeding efforts to improve confined management and subsequent conservation practices. This study collected 100 and 154 fecal samples from captive macaques, gibbons, and slow lorises in the summer and winter, respectively. The Blastocystis infection, its gene subtypes, and its zoonotic potential based on small subunit ribosomal RNA (SSU rRNA) were analyzed. The prevalence of Blastocystis in the three primate genera was 57.79% (89/154) in the summer (2021) and 29.00% (29/100) in the winter (2020). Four zoonotic subtypes-ST1, ST2, ST3, and ST4-were identified. ST2 was the most prevalent subtype, suggesting that these animals may serve as reservoirs for pathogens of human Blastocystis infections. The macaques showed a more significant variation in Blastocystis infection between seasons than gibbons and slow lorises. The slow lorises in small cages and enclosure areas were potentially more infected by Blastocystis in the summer, indicating that inappropriate captive management may have detrimental effects on their health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qingyong Ni
- Farm Animal Genetic Resources Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611134, China
- Key Laboratory of Livestock and Poultry Multi-Omics, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, College of Animal Science and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611134, China
| | - Shasha Dong
- Farm Animal Genetic Resources Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611134, China
- Key Laboratory of Livestock and Poultry Multi-Omics, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, College of Animal Science and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611134, China
| | - Yumai Fan
- Dehong Wildlife Rescue Center, Forestry Bureau of Dehong Prefecture, Mangshi 678499, China
| | - Wen Wan
- Dehong Wildlife Rescue Center, Forestry Bureau of Dehong Prefecture, Mangshi 678499, China
| | - Ping Teng
- Dehong Wildlife Rescue Center, Forestry Bureau of Dehong Prefecture, Mangshi 678499, China
| | - Shaobo Zhu
- Dehong Wildlife Rescue Center, Forestry Bureau of Dehong Prefecture, Mangshi 678499, China
| | - Xiaobi Liang
- Dehong Wildlife Rescue Center, Forestry Bureau of Dehong Prefecture, Mangshi 678499, China
| | - Huailiang Xu
- College of Life Science, Sichuan Agricultural University, Ya’an 625099, China
| | - Yongfang Yao
- College of Life Science, Sichuan Agricultural University, Ya’an 625099, China
| | - Mingwang Zhang
- Farm Animal Genetic Resources Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611134, China
- Key Laboratory of Livestock and Poultry Multi-Omics, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, College of Animal Science and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611134, China
| | - Meng Xie
- College of Life Science, Sichuan Agricultural University, Ya’an 625099, China
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12
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Diversity of Blastocystis Subtypes in Horses in Colombia and Identification of Two New Subtypes. Microorganisms 2022; 10:microorganisms10091693. [PMID: 36144295 PMCID: PMC9505074 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms10091693] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2022] [Revised: 08/16/2022] [Accepted: 08/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Blastocystis is a common intestinal protist in humans and animals worldwide. Wild and domestic animals are thought to be reservoirs of Blastocystis subtypes that also infect humans. There are limited studies on the prevalence and subtype distribution of Blastocystis in horses. In this study, 185 fecal samples were collected from horses (1 month to 17 years of age) in four regions of Colombia (Sabana de Bogotá, Costa Atlántica, Llanos Orientales, and Bogotá D.C.). Blastocystis presence and subtypes were determined by PCR and next generation amplicon sequencing. Eighty-one (43.8%) horses were positive for Blastocystis, with positive horses in all four regions. Molecular characterization identified 12 Blastocystis subtypes, 10 known subtypes (ST1, ST3–ST6, ST10, ST14, ST25, ST26), and 2 novel subtypes (ST33 and ST34). The validity of the novel subtypes was confirmed via phylogenetic and pairwise distance analyses of the full-length SSU rRNA gene sequences. Mixed subtype infections were common (55.6% of Blastocystis-positive horses). ST10 was the most prevalent subtype, present in 82.8% of Blastocystis-positive horses. Potentially zoonotic subtypes were identified in 88.9% of the Blastocystis-positive horses. This constitutes the most comprehensive study of Blastocystis in horses. Our findings indicate that horses harbor potentially zoonotic subtypes and could contribute to the transmission of Blastocystis to humans.
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Falkowski P, Gaweł A, Bobrek K. Prevalence of Blastocystis in Geese Reproductive Flocks. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:ani12030291. [PMID: 35158615 PMCID: PMC8833460 DOI: 10.3390/ani12030291] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2021] [Revised: 01/10/2022] [Accepted: 01/18/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Some diseases may be transmitted from animals to humans, and to prevent this, more studies on controlling infectious agents in animals are needed. We conducted an investigation among reproductive geese flocks to determine the presence of Blastocystis—a protozoan that may infect people and animals. The parasite was present in 46.5% of tested flocks, and there was no correlation between the bird’s age and flock size. Our conclusion is that geese could be the source of infections in humans who have contact with infected birds. Abstract Blastocystis is a unicellular, anaerobic protozoan that has a low specificity for the hosts, and it could be a zoonosis. There are not many data about the occurrence of Blastocystis in bird species, and this study aimed to check the prevalence of Blastocystis infection in reproductive geese flocks. The result obtained showed that a parasite was present in 46.5% of tested flocks. The extensiveness of the Blastocystis invasion in reproductive geese flocks was low because the genetic material of parasites was found only in 7.48% of samples. There was no correlation between the infection and the bird’s age or the flock size. The data obtained showed that geese could be the source of infections in humans who have contact with carriers of the infection.
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Köster PC, Martínez-Nevado E, González A, Abelló-Poveda MT, Fernández-Bellon H, de la Riva-Fraga M, Marquet B, Guéry JP, Knauf-Witzens T, Weigold A, Dashti A, Bailo B, Imaña E, Muadica AS, González-Barrio D, Ponce-Gordo F, Calero-Bernal R, Carmena D. Intestinal Protists in Captive Non-human Primates and Their Handlers in Six European Zoological Gardens. Molecular Evidence of Zoonotic Transmission. Front Vet Sci 2022; 8:819887. [PMID: 35059456 PMCID: PMC8763706 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2021.819887] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2021] [Accepted: 12/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
We assessed the occurrence, genetic diversity, and zoonotic potential of four protozoan (Cryptosporidium spp., Entamoeba histolytica, Entamoeba dispar, Giardia duodenalis), one stramenopile (Blastocystis sp.), one microsporidia (Enterocytozoon bieneusi), and two ciliate (Balantioides coli, Troglodytella abrassarti) intestinal parasite or commensal protist species in captive non-human primates (NHP) and their zookeepers from six European zoological gardens in France (n = 1), Germany (n = 1), and Spain (n = 4). Faecal samples from NHP (n = 454) belonging to 63 species within 35 genera and humans (n = 70) were collected at two sampling periods in each participating institution between October 2018-August 2021. Detection and species identification was accomplished by PCR and Sanger sequencing of the ssu rRNA and/or ITS genes. Sub-genotyping analyses using specific markers were conducted on isolates positive for G. duodenalis (gdh, bg, tpi) and Cryptosporidium spp. (gp60). Overall, 41.0% (186/454) and 30.0% (21/70) of the faecal samples of NHP and human origin tested positive for at least one intestinal protist species, respectively. In NHP, Blastocystis sp. was the most prevalent protist species found (20.3%), followed by G. duodenalis (18.1%), E. dispar (7.9%), B. coli and T. abrassarti (1.5% each), and Cryptosporidium spp. and E. bieneusi (0.9% each). Occurrence rates varied largely among NHP host species, sampling periods, and zoological institutions. The predominant protist species found in humans was Blastocystis sp. (25.7%), followed by Cryptosporidium spp. (2.9%), E. dispar (1.4%), and G. duodenalis (1.4%). Sequencing of PCR-positive amplicons in human and/or NHP confirmed the presence of Cryptosporidium in six isolates (C. hominis: 66.7%, C. parvum: 33.3%), G. duodenalis in 18 isolates (assemblage A: 16.7%, assemblage B: 83.3%), Blastocystis in 110 isolates (ST1:38.2%, ST2:11.8%, ST3: 18.2%, ST4: 9.1%, ST5: 17.3%, ST8: 2.7%, ST13: 0.9%), and E. bieneusi in four isolates (CM18: 75.0%, Type IV: 25.0%). Zoonotic transmission events involving Blastocystis ST1-ST4 were identified in four zoological institutions. Zoonotic transmission of C. hominis was highly suspected, but not fully demonstrated, in one of them. Monitoring of intestinal protist species might be useful for assessing health status of captive NHP and their zookeepers, and to identify transmission pathways of faecal-orally transmitted pathogens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pamela C. Köster
- Parasitology Reference and Research Laboratory, Spanish National Centre for Microbiology, Madrid, Spain
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Annika Weigold
- Wilhelma Zoological-Botanical Garden, Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Alejandro Dashti
- Parasitology Reference and Research Laboratory, Spanish National Centre for Microbiology, Madrid, Spain
| | - Begoña Bailo
- Parasitology Reference and Research Laboratory, Spanish National Centre for Microbiology, Madrid, Spain
| | - Elena Imaña
- Parasitology Reference and Research Laboratory, Spanish National Centre for Microbiology, Madrid, Spain
| | - Aly S. Muadica
- Parasitology Reference and Research Laboratory, Spanish National Centre for Microbiology, Madrid, Spain
- Departamento de Ciências e Tecnologia, Universidade Licungo, Zambézia, Mozambique
| | - David González-Barrio
- Parasitology Reference and Research Laboratory, Spanish National Centre for Microbiology, Madrid, Spain
| | - Francisco Ponce-Gordo
- Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Complutense University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Rafael Calero-Bernal
- Salud Veterinaria y Zoonosis (SALUVET), Department of Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary, Complutense University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - David Carmena
- Parasitology Reference and Research Laboratory, Spanish National Centre for Microbiology, Madrid, Spain
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15
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Helenbrook WD, Whipps CM. Molecular Characterization of Blastocystis in Captive and Free-Ranging New World Primates, Platyrrhini. Acta Parasitol 2021; 66:1267-1273. [PMID: 33914238 DOI: 10.1007/s11686-021-00397-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2020] [Accepted: 04/19/2021] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Blastocystis species are widely distributed micro-eukaryote parasites found in both human and nonhuman primates. Despite having a global distribution, descriptions of Blastocystis subtype diversity in neotropical primates is largely limited to captive animals. The aim of this study was to molecularly characterize the presence of Blastocystis in free-ranging black-headed night monkeys, Aotus nigriceps, and to analyze Blastocystis heterogeneity in primates of the Parvorder Platyrrhini. METHODS We analyzed Blastocystis small sub-unit ribosomal DNA (SSUrDNA) from both A. nigriceps and Azara's night monkey, A. azarae boliviensis, in Southeastern Peru. We also included additional Blastocystis sequence from other neotropical primate studies to explore the distribution and host specificity of Blastocystis subtypes (ST) throughout the neotropics. RESULTS Thirteen percent of A. nigriceps samples were Blastocystis positive. Only ST8 was amplified in A. nigriceps and this partial DNA sequence was highly similar to ST8 sequence previously obtained from a human in Brazil. In our analysis of all available Blastocystis SSU sequences from primates of the Parvorder Platyrrhini, we found 15 monophyletic lineages corresponding to previously described subtypes ST1-ST10, ST12-15, and ST17. CONCLUSIONS Blastocystis SSU sequences amplified from A. nigriceps fecal samples shared high sequence similarity to isolates found in several other neotropical primates, Alouatta palliata, A. caraya, Ateles fusciceps, and Lagothrix. Similar subtypes have been found in human and captive primates which supports the possibility of transmission when in close contact. Expanded sampling of sympatric neotropical primates in the wild will establish whether subtypes and clades are limited to taxonomic group or whether transmission occurs between overlapping species.
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16
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Masuda A, Matsuda Y, Horikita T, Matsumoto J. Subtype analysis and prevalence of mixed subtype infection of Blastocystis in farmed pigs from Chiba Prefecture, Japan. Parasitol Int 2021; 87:102490. [PMID: 34737074 DOI: 10.1016/j.parint.2021.102490] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2021] [Revised: 10/01/2021] [Accepted: 10/27/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Blastocystis is an intestinal eukaryotes found in a wide range of animals and in the human population globally. Blastocystis is reported in domestic pigs, with subtype (ST) 5 being the dominant ST, followed by ST1 and ST3. The common method used for ST identification in pigs is PCR-sequencing, which often results in underestimation of the prevalence of mixed infections. Here, we aimed to investigate the ST distribution and the prevalence of mixed ST infection of Blastocystis in pigs from Chiba Prefecture in eastern Japan. A total of 82 fecal samples positive for Blastocystis were collected from two different farms, A and B. PCR was performed with subtype-specific primers, ST1, ST2, ST3, and ST5. The prevalence of single ST5 infection was 37.8% (31/82), whereas mixed infection with ST5 and other STs was 57.3% (47/82). A high percentage of single ST5 infection was observed in sows, piglets, and weaners from farm A (13/15, 86.7%), whereas mixed infection of ST5 and other STs, ST1 and ST3, was observed in 3-5-month-old grower pigs (15/18, 83.3%). Similarly, in farm B, the majority of sows and piglets under 1 month of age showed a single ST5 infection (12/17, 70.6%), whereas weaner, grower, and finisher pigs showed mixed infections with ST5 and other STs, ST1, ST2 and ST3 (27/28, 96.4%). In domestic pigs, diet and rearing environment changes dramatically over the course of animal's lifetime, which may have caused this difference in the prevalence of mixed ST infection among different age groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aya Masuda
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, College of Bioresource Sciences, Nihon University, 1866 Kameino, Fujisawa, Kanagawa 252-0880, Japan.
| | - Yukino Matsuda
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, College of Bioresource Sciences, Nihon University, 1866 Kameino, Fujisawa, Kanagawa 252-0880, Japan.
| | - Tetsuya Horikita
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, College of Bioresource Sciences, Nihon University, 1866 Kameino, Fujisawa, Kanagawa 252-0880, Japan.
| | - Jun Matsumoto
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, College of Bioresource Sciences, Nihon University, 1866 Kameino, Fujisawa, Kanagawa 252-0880, Japan.
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Chen S, Meng W, Zhou Z, Deng L, Shi X, Chai Y, Liu H, Cheng Y, Zhong Z, Fu H, Shen L, Zhang K, He T, Peng G. Genetic characterization and zoonotic potential of Blastocystis from wild animals in Sichuan Wolong National Natural Reserve, Southwest China. Parasite 2021; 28:73. [PMID: 34706216 PMCID: PMC8550814 DOI: 10.1051/parasite/2021071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2021] [Accepted: 10/13/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Blastocystis is a prevalent eukaryotic parasite that has been identified in a wide range of hosts. Several species are considered potential sources of Blastocystis infection in humans, but little is known about the prevalence of Blastocystis in wild animals. In this study, the prevalence and subtypes of Blastocystis were investigated to assess the zoonotic potential of wild animals in Sichuan Wolong National Natural Reserve. A total of 300 fecal samples were collected from 27 wildlife species in three areas of the Reserve. The subtype (ST), genetic characteristics, and prevalence of Blastocystis were determined by PCR amplification of part (~600 bp) of the SSU rRNA gene. Thirty fecal samples (10.0%) were Blastocystis-positive. The highest prevalence of Blastocystis was found in Yinchanggou (18.3%), with significantly less found in Niutoushan (7.5%) and Genda (5.5%) (p < 0.05). No significant differences were associated with different orders of animals in prevalence, which may be because of the small number of positive samples obtained. Sequence analysis showed five subtypes (ST1, ST3, ST5, ST13, and ST14), with ST13 and ST14 being predominant (33% each), followed by ST1 (20%). This is the first molecular investigation of Blastocystis infection in the wild animals of southwestern China. Subtypes ST1, ST3, ST5, and ST14 have previously been identified in humans, suggesting that wild animals may be potential reservoirs of Blastocystis for humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shanyu Chen
- Key Laboratory of Animal Disease and Human Health of Sichuan Province, College of Veterinary Medicine, Sichuan Agricultural University Chengdu 611130 Sichuan PR China
| | - Wanyu Meng
- Key Laboratory of Animal Disease and Human Health of Sichuan Province, College of Veterinary Medicine, Sichuan Agricultural University Chengdu 611130 Sichuan PR China
| | - Ziyao Zhou
- Key Laboratory of Animal Disease and Human Health of Sichuan Province, College of Veterinary Medicine, Sichuan Agricultural University Chengdu 611130 Sichuan PR China
| | - Lei Deng
- Key Laboratory of Animal Disease and Human Health of Sichuan Province, College of Veterinary Medicine, Sichuan Agricultural University Chengdu 611130 Sichuan PR China
| | - Xiaogang Shi
- Sichuan Wolong National Natural Reserve Administration Aba 623006 Sichuan PR China
| | - Yijun Chai
- Key Laboratory of Animal Disease and Human Health of Sichuan Province, College of Veterinary Medicine, Sichuan Agricultural University Chengdu 611130 Sichuan PR China
| | - Haifeng Liu
- Key Laboratory of Animal Disease and Human Health of Sichuan Province, College of Veterinary Medicine, Sichuan Agricultural University Chengdu 611130 Sichuan PR China
| | - Yuehong Cheng
- Sichuan Wolong National Natural Reserve Administration Aba 623006 Sichuan PR China
| | - Zhijun Zhong
- Key Laboratory of Animal Disease and Human Health of Sichuan Province, College of Veterinary Medicine, Sichuan Agricultural University Chengdu 611130 Sichuan PR China
| | - Hualin Fu
- Key Laboratory of Animal Disease and Human Health of Sichuan Province, College of Veterinary Medicine, Sichuan Agricultural University Chengdu 611130 Sichuan PR China
| | - Liuhong Shen
- Key Laboratory of Animal Disease and Human Health of Sichuan Province, College of Veterinary Medicine, Sichuan Agricultural University Chengdu 611130 Sichuan PR China
| | - Kun Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Animal Disease and Human Health of Sichuan Province, College of Veterinary Medicine, Sichuan Agricultural University Chengdu 611130 Sichuan PR China
| | - Tingmei He
- Sichuan Wolong National Natural Reserve Administration Aba 623006 Sichuan PR China
| | - Guangneng Peng
- Key Laboratory of Animal Disease and Human Health of Sichuan Province, College of Veterinary Medicine, Sichuan Agricultural University Chengdu 611130 Sichuan PR China
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Rudzińska M, Kowalewska B, Waleron M, Kalicki M, Sikorska K, Szostakowska B. Molecular Characterization of Blastocystis from Animals and Their Caregivers at the Gdańsk Zoo (Poland) and the Assessment of Zoonotic Transmission. BIOLOGY 2021; 10:biology10100984. [PMID: 34681082 PMCID: PMC8533498 DOI: 10.3390/biology10100984] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2021] [Revised: 09/22/2021] [Accepted: 09/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Blastocystis is a highly genetically diverse gut protist commonly found in humans and various animals. The role of animals in human infection is only partly understood. The aim of this study was to determine the host specificity and possibility of zoonotic transmission of this microorganism. Subtypes of Blastocystis isolated from 201 zoo animals and their 35 caregivers were identified by sequencing of the SSU rRNA gene. Blastocystis was found in 26.86% of animal and 17.14% of human samples. Both mammalian (ST1-ST3, ST5, ST8, ST10, ST13, ST14) and non-mammalian subtypes were detected. Of the subtypes found in non-human primates (ST1, ST2, ST3, and ST13), two subtypes (ST1 and ST3) were also detected in humans. The presence of identical ST1 sequences in three monkeys and their caregiver indicates the possibility of direct transmission of Blastocystis between these animals and humans. Detection of ST5 only in wild boars and peccaries, ST8 only in Marsupial, ST10 and ST14 only in Bovidae, and non-mammalian subtypes in reptiles suggests higher host specificity for these subtypes, and indicates that their transmission between animals and humans is unlikely. Additionally, this was probably the first time that ST5 was found in peccaries, ST2 in patas monkeys, and ST8 in red kangaroos.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monika Rudzińska
- Department of Tropical Medicine and Epidemiology, Faculty of Health Sciences, Medical University of Gdańsk, 80-210 Gdańsk, Poland; (B.K.); (K.S.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +48-583-491-762
| | - Beata Kowalewska
- Department of Tropical Medicine and Epidemiology, Faculty of Health Sciences, Medical University of Gdańsk, 80-210 Gdańsk, Poland; (B.K.); (K.S.)
| | - Małgorzata Waleron
- Laboratory of Plant Protection and Biotechnology, Intercollegiate Faculty of Biotechnology, University of Gdańsk and Medical University of Gdańsk, Abrahama 58, 80-307 Gdańsk, Poland;
| | - Mirosław Kalicki
- Zoological Garden of Gdańsk, Karwieńska 3, 80-328 Gdańsk, Poland;
| | - Katarzyna Sikorska
- Department of Tropical Medicine and Epidemiology, Faculty of Health Sciences, Medical University of Gdańsk, 80-210 Gdańsk, Poland; (B.K.); (K.S.)
| | - Beata Szostakowska
- Department of Tropical Parasitology, Faculty of Health Sciences, Medical University of Gdańsk, 80-210 Gdańsk, Poland;
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Asghari A, Sadrebazzaz A, Shamsi L, Shams M. Global prevalence, subtypes distribution, zoonotic potential, and associated risk factors of Blastocystis sp. in domestic pigs (Sus domesticus) and wild boars (Sus scrofa): A systematic review and meta-analysis. Microb Pathog 2021; 160:105183. [PMID: 34517066 DOI: 10.1016/j.micpath.2021.105183] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2021] [Revised: 09/02/2021] [Accepted: 09/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
The intestinal parasite Blastocystis sp. is a widely distributed protist among humans and various animal hosts, with significant prevalence in developing countries. Due to the zoonotic nature of its subtypes (STs), we aimed at global estimation of the prevalence, STs distribution, zoonotic potential, and associated risk factors of Blastocystis sp. infection in domestic pigs (Sus domesticus) and wild pigs/wild boars (Sus scrofa). The study was designed and conducted in 2021 via searching articles in PubMed, Scopus, Google Scholar, and Web of Science databases, based on the PRISMA checklist, and meta-analysis was done using a random-effects model to calculate the weighted estimates and 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs). Totally, 43 papers (47 datasets) reported data on 7977 examined pigs in 24 countries with a total prevalence of 50.9% (95% CI: 42.8-59%). In details, prevalence was higher among domestic pigs [52.4% (95% CI: 43.9-60.7%)] than wild boars [31.2% (95% CI: 11.2-62%)], but is poorly statistically supported as far as the CIs largely overlap. Out of 28 reported STs, nine (ST1-ST7, ST10, and ST15) were reported from domestic pigs, while six (ST1, ST3-ST5, ST8, and ST15) had been isolated from wild boars. Among nine zoonotic STs (ST1-ST8, and ST12), all were identified in examined swine populations, except for ST12. As well, ST1 and ST5 were probably the most frequently circulating STs among these animals. In addition, male and older pigs showed higher Blastocystis sp. infection. Altogether, Blastocystis epidemiology and the distribution of its related STs in pigs is still open to question and requires more extensive studies, especially in the neglected regions of the world.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali Asghari
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran.
| | - Alireza Sadrebazzaz
- Razi Vaccine & Serum Research Institute, Agricultural Research, Education and Extension Organization, Mashhad, Iran.
| | - Laya Shamsi
- Department of Pathobiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Urmia University, Urmia, Iran.
| | - Morteza Shams
- Zoonotic Diseases Research Center, Ilam University of Medical Sciences, Ilam, Iran.
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Epidemiological and Molecular Characterization of Blastocystis Infection in Children Attending Daycare Centers in Medellín, Colombia. BIOLOGY 2021; 10:biology10070669. [PMID: 34356524 PMCID: PMC8301444 DOI: 10.3390/biology10070669] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2021] [Revised: 06/24/2021] [Accepted: 07/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Simple Summary Blastocystis infection affects more than 1000 million people globally. Its frequency varies depending on sociodemographic conditions, hygienic habits, provision of public services, and predisposing factors for contracting the infection, considering the child population as the most affected in developing countries. The lack of studies on this protozoan prevents the understanding of its transmission dynamics and its implications for the population’s health. For this protozoan, the diagnosis is based on microscopic reporting by conventional techniques; and subtype identification, which vary depending on the epidemiological distribution, host, and symptoms. In our study, we describe its epidemiological and molecular characterization in a child population. Additionally, we compare the diagnosis methods of Blastocystis; our research identified a better sensitivity with molecular methods and a great diversity of alleles and subtypes in this population. Abstract Background: The present study aims to perform an epidemiological and molecular characterization of Blastocystis infection in a child population attending daycare centers of Medellín, Colombia. Methods: A total of 265 children aged 0–5 years were enrolled in five children’s centers in urban sectors of Medellín, northwestern Colombia. Stool samples were taken to identify intestinal parasites by direct examination, Ritchie–Frick concentration, and molecular identification of Blastocystis by conventional PCR and subtype (ST) identification by PCR barcoding with subsequent phylogenetic reconstruction. Kappa index was calculated to evaluate the agreement between microscopy and PCR for the diagnosis of Blastocystis. Results: The prevalence of intestinal protozoa was 36.6% (97/265), with Blastocystis as the most frequent parasitic protozoan at 15.8% (42/265), followed by Giardia intestinalis at 15.5% (41/265) and Endolimax nana at 15.1% (40/265). The prevalence of Blastocystis by PCR was 53.2% (141/265), the subtypes identified were ST3 at 30.5% (18/59), ST2 at 23.7% (14/59), ST1 at 20.3% (12/59), and with less frequency, ST4 at 5.1% (3/59), ST6 at 1.7% (1/59) and ST16 at 15.3% (9/59) allele 162. Conclusion: This study provides the first genetic characterization of Blastocystis subtypes circulating in a population of Medellín, Colombia, and also updates the epidemiology of Blastocystis subtypes in the world with the first identification of ST16 in humans.
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21
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Maloney JG, da Cunha MJR, Molokin A, Cury MC, Santin M. Next-generation sequencing reveals wide genetic diversity of Blastocystis subtypes in chickens including potentially zoonotic subtypes. Parasitol Res 2021; 120:2219-2231. [PMID: 33904983 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-021-07170-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2021] [Accepted: 04/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Blastocystis sp. is an intestinal protist parasite commonly found in the feces of humans and animals worldwide. Blastocystis exhibits extensive genetic diversity and has been identified in humans and a variety of animals including other mammals and birds. Blastocystis subtypes do not exhibit strict host specificity which raises the possibility of zoonotic transmission through either direct contact or fecal contamination of food or water. However, reports detailing the subtypes and prevalence of Blastocystis in avian species are limited. Therefore, this study investigated the presence of Blastocystis in chickens by molecular characterization of the small subunit rRNA (SSU rRNA) gene. Fecal samples from 130 chickens were collected from local markets in Uberlândia and Belo Horizonte in the state of Minas Gerais, Brazil. To detect and identify subtypes of Blastocystis, a next-generation amplicon sequencing protocol was used. Forty-four of the 130 (33.8%) chickens examined were positive for Blastocystis. Blastocystis subtypes ST6 (23/130; 17.7%), ST7 (43/130; 33.1%), ST10 (1/130; 0.8%), ST14 (5/130; 3.8%), ST25 (1/130; 0.8%), and a novel subtype (ST29) (2/130; 1.5%) were observed. A nanopore sequencing strategy was used to obtain the near full-length SSU rRNA gene nucleotide sequence and validate novel subtype ST29. Mixed infections containing multiple subtypes were common and identified in 63.6% of Blastocystis-positive chickens. All positive samples contained one or both potentially zoonotic subtypes ST6 and ST7. The prevalence of Blastocystis in chickens was high, and molecular characterization mostly identified subtypes previously found in humans. Thus, chickens may be a source of human infection and environmental contamination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jenny G Maloney
- Environmental Microbial and Food Safety Laboratory, Agricultural Research Service, United States Department of Agriculture, Beltsville, MD, USA
| | - Maria J R da Cunha
- Environmental Microbial and Food Safety Laboratory, Agricultural Research Service, United States Department of Agriculture, Beltsville, MD, USA.,Laboratório de Parasitologia, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas, Universidade Federal de Uberlândia, Av. Pará, 1720, Campus Umuarama, Uberlândia, Minas Gerais, 38400-902, Brazil.,CAPES Foundation, Ministry of Education of Brazil, Caixa Postal 250, Brasília, DF, 70040-020, Brazil
| | - Aleksey Molokin
- Environmental Microbial and Food Safety Laboratory, Agricultural Research Service, United States Department of Agriculture, Beltsville, MD, USA
| | - Márcia C Cury
- Laboratório de Parasitologia, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas, Universidade Federal de Uberlândia, Av. Pará, 1720, Campus Umuarama, Uberlândia, Minas Gerais, 38400-902, Brazil
| | - Monica Santin
- Environmental Microbial and Food Safety Laboratory, Agricultural Research Service, United States Department of Agriculture, Beltsville, MD, USA.
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22
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Pérez MR, Yáñez CM, Hernández AM, Sustaita JJD, Jiménez EG, Andrade MR, Vargas GGG, Gómez JOG. Blastocystis infection frequency and subtype distribution in university students. Heliyon 2020; 6:e05729. [PMID: 33385079 PMCID: PMC7770537 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2020.e05729] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2019] [Revised: 08/26/2020] [Accepted: 12/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Blastocystis is a parasite commonly found in the gut of humans and animals; there are 22 known subtypes (STs). STs 1-9 and 12 have been found in humans. This parasite has a faecal-oral route of transmission; its high infection prevalence in developing countries is due to poor hygiene practices, exposure to infected animals, and intake of contaminated water or food. Its pathogenicity has not been established, because it has been found in symptomatic and asymptomatic patients. The goal of this study was to analyze the frequency of Blastocystis and its subtypes (1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and 7), and assess the relationship between these subtypes and abdominal pain and distension. 202 university students participated in this study. A questionnaire was applied to assess the gastrointestinal symptoms, and subsequently the students were asked to provide faecal samples. The presence of parasites was determined by optical microscopy. Blastocystis-positive samples had their DNA extracted and end-point PCR was performed to corroborate the presence of Blastocystis and determine its subtypes. Among the samples, 47.03% were positive according to PCR analysis. The most prevalent subtypes were ST3 (29.79%), ST4 (16.84%), and ST1 (14.89%). We found a relationship between ST1 and abdominal pain (OR = 0.196; CI = 0.0533-0.7318; p = 0.015), and between ST4 and abdominal distension (OR = 0.2928; CI = 0.1017-0.8429; p = 0.023). However, the presence of this parasite and the probable relationship with gastrointestinal symptoms suggest the need to determine its role within intestinal microbiota in order to confirm whether its eradication is really necessary or not.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcela Ramírez Pérez
- Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, UJED, Calz. Palmas 1, Revolución, 35050 Gómez Palacio, Durango, Mexico
| | - Claudia Muñoz Yáñez
- Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, UJED, Calz. Palmas 1, Revolución, 35050 Gómez Palacio, Durango, Mexico
| | - Alejandra Méndez Hernández
- Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, UJED, Calz. Palmas 1, Revolución, 35050 Gómez Palacio, Durango, Mexico
| | | | - Efraín Gaytan Jiménez
- Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, UJED, Calz. Palmas 1, Revolución, 35050 Gómez Palacio, Durango, Mexico
| | - Marisela Rubio Andrade
- Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, UJED, Calz. Palmas 1, Revolución, 35050 Gómez Palacio, Durango, Mexico
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23
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Lhotská Z, Jirků M, Hložková O, Brožová K, Jirsová D, Stensvold CR, Kolísko M, Jirků Pomajbíková K. A Study on the Prevalence and Subtype Diversity of the Intestinal Protist Blastocystis sp. in a Gut-Healthy Human Population in the Czech Republic. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2020; 10:544335. [PMID: 33123491 PMCID: PMC7573152 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2020.544335] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2020] [Accepted: 09/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Blastocystis sp. is a common intestinal protist colonizing the human intestine the prevalence of which varies across non-industrialized and industrialized countries. Its role in the human gut ecosystem remains unclear due to persisting gaps in knowledge of epidemiology and factors affecting gut colonization. Here, we aimed to expand the knowledge of the epidemiology of Blastocystis sp. in the gut-healthy humans in one of the industrialized European countries, including the distribution of its subtypes, the correlation between its occurrence and several factors such as lifestyle, contact with animals, age, and sex. A total of 288 stool samples were obtained from asymptomatic individuals over the entire age-range and 136 samples from animals with which the volunteers were in frequent contact. All samples were examined in parallel by PCR and xenic in vitro culture. Blastocystis sp. was detected in samples from both human and non-human hosts. In humans, the overall prevalence was 24% and eight subtypes were found; in animals, the prevalence was 10%, and only five subtypes were detected. A higher incidence of Blastocystis sp. was observed in individuals (i) traveling outside Europe, (ii) in frequent contact with livestock, and (iii) over 50 years of age. We found no effect on gender on Blastocystis sp. colonization. Summary This study provides data on the prevalence and diversity of the gut protist Blastocystis sp. and its subtypes in a gut-healthy human population with emphasis on several factors such as contact with animals, lifestyle, age, and gender.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zuzana Lhotská
- Biology Center, Institute of Parasitology, The Czech Academy of Sciences, České Budějovice, Czechia.,Faculty of Science, University of South Bohemia, České Budějovice, Czechia
| | - Milan Jirků
- Biology Center, Institute of Parasitology, The Czech Academy of Sciences, České Budějovice, Czechia
| | - Oldřiška Hložková
- Biology Center, Institute of Parasitology, The Czech Academy of Sciences, České Budějovice, Czechia
| | - Kristýna Brožová
- Biology Center, Institute of Parasitology, The Czech Academy of Sciences, České Budějovice, Czechia.,Faculty of Science, University of South Bohemia, České Budějovice, Czechia
| | - Dagmar Jirsová
- Biology Center, Institute of Parasitology, The Czech Academy of Sciences, České Budějovice, Czechia
| | | | - Martin Kolísko
- Biology Center, Institute of Parasitology, The Czech Academy of Sciences, České Budějovice, Czechia.,Faculty of Science, University of South Bohemia, České Budějovice, Czechia
| | - Kateřina Jirků Pomajbíková
- Biology Center, Institute of Parasitology, The Czech Academy of Sciences, České Budějovice, Czechia.,Faculty of Science, University of South Bohemia, České Budějovice, Czechia
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24
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Hublin JSY, Maloney JG, Santin M. Blastocystis in domesticated and wild mammals and birds. Res Vet Sci 2020; 135:260-282. [PMID: 33046256 DOI: 10.1016/j.rvsc.2020.09.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 81] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2020] [Revised: 09/22/2020] [Accepted: 09/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Blastocystis is a ubiquitous parasite that infects a broad range of vertebrate hosts including humans and domestic and wild animals. While human infections have been occasionally associated with gastrointestinal illnesses and/or urticaria, animal infections are not usually associated with disease. However, from a public health perspective, most subtypes isolated in humans have also been isolated from animals raising the question of the importance of animal reservoirs in the epidemiology of this parasite. The identification of Blastocystis in water supplies suggests water can be a potential vehicle in the transmission of this parasite not only for humans but also for animals. In addition, Blastocystis has been detected in retail fresh produce. Knowledge of this parasite has greatly expanded in the last two decades from simple microscopic observations to the application of molecular tools to explore Blastocystis taxonomy and epidemiology. This review provides a comprehensive overview of Blastocystis in animals highlighting the subtype diversity of this widespread and genetically diverse parasite in different animal groups. This information will be useful in understanding the current status of taxonomy, epidemiology, zoonotic potential, and public health importance of Blastocystis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Josephine S Y Hublin
- Environmental Microbial and Food Safety Laboratory, Agricultural Research Service, United States Department of Agriculture, 10300 Baltimore Ave, Beltsville, MD 20705, United States
| | - Jenny G Maloney
- Environmental Microbial and Food Safety Laboratory, Agricultural Research Service, United States Department of Agriculture, 10300 Baltimore Ave, Beltsville, MD 20705, United States
| | - Monica Santin
- Environmental Microbial and Food Safety Laboratory, Agricultural Research Service, United States Department of Agriculture, 10300 Baltimore Ave, Beltsville, MD 20705, United States.
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25
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Current status of Blastocystis sp. in animals from Southeast Asia: a review. Parasitol Res 2020; 119:3559-3570. [PMID: 32951145 PMCID: PMC7502158 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-020-06828-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2020] [Accepted: 07/21/2020] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
Blastocystis is the most frequently observed eukaryotic gastrointestinal symbiont in humans and animals. Its low host specificity and zoonotic potential suggest that animals might serve as possible reservoirs for transmission. The prevalence and subtype distributions of Blastocystis sp. in animal populations in Southeast Asia, a hotspot for zoonotic diseases, are reviewed. Recommendations for future research aimed at understanding the zoonotic role of Blastocystis are also included. Seven countries have, so far, reported Blastocystis infection in various animals, such as livestock, poultry, companion animals, and non-human primates. Pigs were the most studied animals, and there were records of 100% prevalence in pigs, cattle, and ostriches. Using polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-based approaches, twelve Blastocystis sp. subtypes (STs), namely ST1, ST2, ST3, ST4, ST5, ST6, ST7, ST8, ST9, ST10, ST12, and ST14 have been recognised infecting animals of Southeast Asia. ST1 and ST5 were the most frequently identified, and Malaysia observed the most diverse distribution of subtypes. Further investigations on Blastocystis sp. in various animal hosts, using adequate sample sizes and uniform detection methods, are essential for a better understanding of the distribution of this organism. Detailed genome studies, especially on STs shared by humans and animals, are also recommended.
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26
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Mohammadpour I, Bozorg-Ghalati F, Gazzonis AL, Manfredi MT, Motazedian MH, Mohammadpour N. First molecular subtyping and phylogeny of Blastocystis sp. isolated from domestic and synanthropic animals (dogs, cats and brown rats) in southern Iran. Parasit Vectors 2020; 13:365. [PMID: 32698882 PMCID: PMC7374852 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-020-04225-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2020] [Accepted: 07/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Blastocystis sp. is a common intestinal protist that infects humans and many animals globally. Thus far, 22 subtypes (STs) have been identified in mammalian and avian hosts. Since various STs are common to humans and animals, it was suggested that some human infections might arise from zoonotic transmission. Therefore, the aim of this study was to assess the presence of Blastocystis sp. in domestic (dogs and cats) and synanthropic animals (rats) of Fars Province, Iran, and to genetically characterize the samples. METHODS A total of 400 fresh faecal samples from 154 dogs, 119 cats, and 127 rats were inspected by direct microscopy, Wheatley's trichrome staining, in vitro culture, and 18S rRNA gene nested-PCR. Finally, sequencing and phylogenetic analyses were performed. RESULTS Out of 400 samples, 47 (11.8%) and 61 (15.3%) samples were detected as positive by direct wet mount and culture, respectively. Molecular analysis detected a larger number of positive samples (n = 70, 17.5%): nested-PCR showed that 29 (18.8%) dogs, 21 (17.7%) cats, and 20 (15.8%) rats were infected by Blastocystis sp. Sequence analysis of positive samples indicated the presence of zoonotic STs in all investigated host species. Specifically, ST2 (allele 9), ST3 (allele 34), ST4 (allele 94), ST7 (allele 99), ST8 (allele 21), and ST10 (allele 152) were detected in dogs; ST1 (allele 2), ST3 (allele 34), ST4 (allele 94), ST10 (allele 152), and ST14 (allele 159) were detected in cats; and ST1 (allele 2), ST3 (allele 34), and ST4 (allele 92) were detected in rats. CONCLUSIONS Our data suggest that domestic dogs and cats can serve as possible reservoirs for in-contact humans, especially those who handle shelter-resident and client-owned animals. Moreover, rats as synanthropic animals can function as a potential source of human infections. Conversely, humans can act as a source of infections to animals. These results should be reinforced in future molecular epidemiological studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iraj Mohammadpour
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran.
| | - Farzaneh Bozorg-Ghalati
- Department of Molecular Medicine, School of Advanced Medical Sciences and Technologies, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | | | | | - Mohammad Hossein Motazedian
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Niloofar Mohammadpour
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, Zeinab Hospital, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
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27
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Rudzińska M, Kowalewska B, Szostakowska B, Grzybek M, Sikorska K, Świątalska A. First Report on the Occurrence and Subtypes of Blastocystis in Pigs in Poland Using Sequence-Tagged-Site PCR and Barcode Region Sequencing. Pathogens 2020; 9:E595. [PMID: 32708299 PMCID: PMC7400023 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens9070595] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2020] [Revised: 07/13/2020] [Accepted: 07/14/2020] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Blastocystis is an enteric microorganism commonly found in humans and animals worldwide. Its pathogenic role in humans and transmission patterns has not been fully explained. However, nine subtypes (ST1-8, ST12) are considered as potentially zoonotic. Studies from various regions of the world show that pigs are mainly infected with ST5. Although pigs are important farmed animals in Poland, the question of Blastocystis infection in these animals has not yet been investigated. Herein, 149 pig stool samples from 10 Polish pig farms were analyzed using sequence-tagged-site PCR and barcode region sequencing. The percentage of samples in which Blastocystis was identified using each method separately was similar: 38.25% and 37.58%, respectively. However, the percentage of positive results obtained by combining both methods was 46.97%, which means that, depending on the method used, the number of undetected samples varied between 8.72% and 9.39%. This shows the methodological limitations of up-to-date molecular approaches commonly used in Blastocystis research. A moderate infection rate (44.4-50%) observed in different pig age groups with a vital predominance of ST5 (94.28%) in every age group shows that pigs are a likely natural host of ST5. A small percentage of mixed infections, namely ST5/ST1 (5.26%), ST5/ST3 (1.75%), and ST3/ST1 (1.75%), was observed only in animals of older age, suggesting that ST3 and ST1 can be acquired by pigs during contact with humans. This study provides the first data on the prevalence and Blastocystis subtypes (STs) distribution in pigs in Poland. The results also highlight the need for the development of new methods capable of detecting highly genetically diverse Blastocystis isolates and mixed infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monika Rudzińska
- Department of Tropical Medicine and Epidemiology, Institute of Maritime and Tropical Medicine, Medical University of Gdańsk, 81-519 Gdynia, Poland; (B.K.); (K.S.)
| | - Beata Kowalewska
- Department of Tropical Medicine and Epidemiology, Institute of Maritime and Tropical Medicine, Medical University of Gdańsk, 81-519 Gdynia, Poland; (B.K.); (K.S.)
| | - Beata Szostakowska
- Department of Tropical Parasitology, Institute of Maritime and Tropical Medicine, Medical University of Gdańsk, 81-519 Gdynia, Poland; (B.S.); (M.G.)
| | - Maciej Grzybek
- Department of Tropical Parasitology, Institute of Maritime and Tropical Medicine, Medical University of Gdańsk, 81-519 Gdynia, Poland; (B.S.); (M.G.)
| | - Katarzyna Sikorska
- Department of Tropical Medicine and Epidemiology, Institute of Maritime and Tropical Medicine, Medical University of Gdańsk, 81-519 Gdynia, Poland; (B.K.); (K.S.)
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Ma L, Qiao H, Wang H, Li S, Zhai P, Huang J, Guo Y. Molecular prevalence and subtypes of Blastocystis sp. in primates in northern China. Transbound Emerg Dis 2020; 67:2789-2796. [PMID: 32445593 DOI: 10.1111/tbed.13644] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2020] [Revised: 05/07/2020] [Accepted: 05/18/2020] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Blastocystis sp. is a common enteric protist that colonizes humans and a wide range of animals. Although some studies have reported incidences of Blastocystis sp. in humans and animals in China, there are limited data available concerning the prevalence among people and non-human primates. The aims of the present study were to determine the prevalence, subtype distribution and genetic characteristics of Blastocystis sp. in primates, and to investigate the potential for zoonotic transmission between human and non-human primates. A total of 185 faecal samples from non-human primates and 1,118 samples from human volunteers were collected in Hebei province. The overall prevalence of Blastocystis sp. in non-human primates was 32.97% (61/185) based on polymerase chain reaction (PCR) amplification of the barcode region of the SSU rRNA gene. Rates of prevalence were highest among Cercopithecus neglectus (100%, 5/5) and were absent in Cebus apella and Colobus guereza. The prevalence of Blastocystis sp. in humans was 34.88% (390/1,118), and the highest rates were 41.24% in children three years of age. There was a higher detection rate in humans with diarrhoea (53.68%). Five potentially zoonotic subtypes (ST1, ST2, ST3, ST5 and ST9) were identified; among these, ST1 and ST2 were more prevalent than others in non-human primates. Similarly, two subtypes (ST2 and ST5) were detected in humans and ST2 was also the most prevalent. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of the prevalence and subtype composition of Blastocystis sp. in Hebei province, and the first study concerning the relationship of Blastocystis sp. among primates in China. The findings of the study will improve our understanding of the genetic diversity and public health potential of Blastocystis sp. enteric infections in addition to providing a profile of subtype characteristics of Blastocystis sp. in primates of northern China.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lei Ma
- College of Life Science, Hebei Normal University, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Haixiav Qiao
- College of Life Science, Hebei Normal University, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Heqin Wang
- College of Life Science, Hebei Normal University, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Shuai Li
- College of Life Science, Hebei Normal University, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Pupu Zhai
- College of Life Science, Hebei Normal University, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Jing Huang
- Hebei Children's Hospital, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Yinghui Guo
- Hebei Children's Hospital, Shijiazhuang, China
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29
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Maloney JG, Molokin A, da Cunha MJR, Cury MC, Santin M. Blastocystis subtype distribution in domestic and captive wild bird species from Brazil using next generation amplicon sequencing. Parasite Epidemiol Control 2020; 9:e00138. [PMID: 32021915 PMCID: PMC6995250 DOI: 10.1016/j.parepi.2020.e00138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2019] [Revised: 01/13/2020] [Accepted: 01/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Blastocystis is a food and water borne intestinal parasite commonly identified in humans and many other animals worldwide. Of the nine potentially zoonotic subtypes of Blastocystis, seven have been reported in bird species. However molecular studies of Blastocystis subtype diversity in birds are limited. In this study, fecal samples from 109 domestic and captive wild birds from Minas Gerais, Brazil were tested for the presence of Blastocystis subtypes using PCR and next generation amplicon sequencing of a fragment of the small subunit ribosomal RNA (SSU rRNA) gene. Birds from 11 orders and 38 species from both local markets and bird conservation facilities were sampled. Blastocystis was present in 14.7% of samples, and eight subtypes, six previously reported (ST5, ST6, ST7, ST10, ST14, ST24) and two novel subtypes (named ST27 and ST28), were identified. The most commonly identified subtypes were ST7 and ST6 identified in 10 (62.5%) and 6 (37.5%) of 16 Blastocystis positive samples. At least one of the three zoonotic subtypes identified (ST5, ST6, and ST7) was found in 81.3% of Blastocystis positive samples. Infection with multiple Blastocystis subtypes was common and identified in 62.5% of positive samples. This study is the first to use next generation amplicon sequencing to characterize Blastocystis subtype diversity in birds. The findings presented here confirm that birds may serve as reservoirs of zoonotic subtypes of Blastocystis and that the role of birds in transmission of Blastocystis to humans requires further study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jenny G. Maloney
- Environmental Microbial and Food Safety Laboratory, Agricultural Research Service, United States Department of Agriculture, Beltsville, MD, USA
| | - Aleksey Molokin
- Environmental Microbial and Food Safety Laboratory, Agricultural Research Service, United States Department of Agriculture, Beltsville, MD, USA
| | - Maria Júlia Rodrigues da Cunha
- Environmental Microbial and Food Safety Laboratory, Agricultural Research Service, United States Department of Agriculture, Beltsville, MD, USA
- Universidade Federal de Uberlândia, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas, Laboratório de Parasitologia, Av. Pará, 1720, Campus Umuarama, 38400-902 Uberlândia, Minas Gerais, Brazil
- CAPES Foundation, Ministry of Education of Brazil, Caixa Postal 250, 70040-020 Brasília, DF, Brazil
| | - Márcia Cristina Cury
- Universidade Federal de Uberlândia, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas, Laboratório de Parasitologia, Av. Pará, 1720, Campus Umuarama, 38400-902 Uberlândia, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Monica Santin
- Environmental Microbial and Food Safety Laboratory, Agricultural Research Service, United States Department of Agriculture, Beltsville, MD, USA
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Molecular Diversity of Giardia duodenalis, Cryptosporidium spp. and Blastocystis sp. in Asymptomatic School Children in Leganés, Madrid (Spain). Microorganisms 2020; 8:microorganisms8040466. [PMID: 32218318 PMCID: PMC7232429 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms8040466] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2020] [Revised: 03/22/2020] [Accepted: 03/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Enteric parasites including Giardia duodenalis, Cryptosporidium spp., and to a lesser extent, Blastocystis sp. and Enterocytozoon bieneusi, are major worldwide contributors to diarrhoeal disease. Assessing their molecular frequency and diversity is important to ascertain the sources of infection, transmission dynamics, and zoonotic potential. Little molecular information is available on the genotypes of these pathogens circulating in apparently healthy children. Here, we show that asymptomatic carriage of G. duodenalis (17.4%, 95% CI: 15.5‒19.4%), Blastocystis sp. (13.0%, 95% CI: 11.4‒14.8%), and Cryptosporidium spp. (0.9%, 95% CI: 0.5‒1.5%) is common in children (1‒16 years; n = 1512) from Madrid, Spain. Our genotyping data indicate that; (i) the observed frequency and diversity of parasite genetic variants are very similar to those previously identified in Spanish clinical samples, so that the genotype alone does not predict the clinical outcome of the infection, (ii) anthroponotic transmission accounts for a large proportion of the detected cases, highlighting that good personal hygiene practices are important to minimizing the risk of infection, (iii) Blastocystis ST4 may represent a subtype of the parasite with higher pathogenic potential, and (iv) Enterocytozoon bieneusi does not represent a public health concern in healthy children.
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Gantois N, Lamot A, Seesao Y, Creusy C, Li LL, Monchy S, Benamrouz-Vanneste S, Karpouzopoulos J, Bourgain JL, Rault C, Demaret F, Baydoun M, Chabé M, Fréalle E, Aliouat-Denis CM, Gay M, Certad G, Viscogliosi E. First Report on the Prevalence and Subtype Distribution of Blastocystis sp. in Edible Marine Fish and Marine Mammals: A Large Scale-Study Conducted in Atlantic Northeast and on the Coasts of Northern France. Microorganisms 2020; 8:microorganisms8030460. [PMID: 32213897 PMCID: PMC7144014 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms8030460] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2020] [Revised: 03/03/2020] [Accepted: 03/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Blastocystis is frequently identified in humans and animal hosts and exhibits a large genetic diversity with the identification of 17 subtypes (STs). Despite its zoonotic potential, its prevalence and ST distribution in edible marine fish and marine mammals remain unknown. A large-scale survey was thus conducted by screening 345 fish caught in Atlantic Northeast and 29 marine mammals stranded on the coasts of northern France for the presence of the parasite using real-time Polymerase Chain Reaction PCR. The prevalence of the parasite was about 3.5% in marine fish. These animals were mostly colonized by poikilotherm-derived isolates not identified in humans and corresponding to potential new STs, indicating that fish are natural hosts of Blastocystis. Marine fishes are also carriers of human STs and represent a likely limited source of zoonotic transmission. 13.8% of the marine mammals tested were colonized and 6 different STs were identified including 3 potential new STs. The risk of zoonotic transmission through marine mammals is insignificant due to the lack of repeated contact with humans. The present survey represents the first data regarding the prevalence and ST distribution of Blastocystis in marine fish and marine mammals and provides new insights into its genetic diversity, host range and transmission.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nausicaa Gantois
- Univ. Lille, CNRS, Inserm, CHU Lille, Institut Pasteur de Lille, U1019 – UMR 9017 – CIIL – Centre d’Infection et d’Immunité de Lille, F-59000 Lille, France; (N.G.); (A.L.); (S.B.-V.); (M.B.); (M.C.); (E.F.); (C.-M.A.-D.); (G.C.)
| | - Angélique Lamot
- Univ. Lille, CNRS, Inserm, CHU Lille, Institut Pasteur de Lille, U1019 – UMR 9017 – CIIL – Centre d’Infection et d’Immunité de Lille, F-59000 Lille, France; (N.G.); (A.L.); (S.B.-V.); (M.B.); (M.C.); (E.F.); (C.-M.A.-D.); (G.C.)
| | - Yuwalee Seesao
- French Agency for Food, Environmental and Occupational Health and Safety (Anses), Laboratory for Food Safety, F-62200 Boulogne-sur-mer, France; (Y.S.); (L.-L.L.); (M.G.)
| | - Colette Creusy
- Service d’Anatomie et de Cytologie Pathologiques, Groupement des Hôpitaux de l’Institut Catholique de Lille (GHICL), F-59000 Lille, France;
| | - Luen-Luen Li
- French Agency for Food, Environmental and Occupational Health and Safety (Anses), Laboratory for Food Safety, F-62200 Boulogne-sur-mer, France; (Y.S.); (L.-L.L.); (M.G.)
- Univ. Littoral Côte d’Opale, CNRS, Univ. Lille, UMR 8187, LOG, Laboratoire d’Océanologie et de Géosciences, F-62930 Wimereux, France;
| | - Sébastien Monchy
- Univ. Littoral Côte d’Opale, CNRS, Univ. Lille, UMR 8187, LOG, Laboratoire d’Océanologie et de Géosciences, F-62930 Wimereux, France;
| | - Sadia Benamrouz-Vanneste
- Univ. Lille, CNRS, Inserm, CHU Lille, Institut Pasteur de Lille, U1019 – UMR 9017 – CIIL – Centre d’Infection et d’Immunité de Lille, F-59000 Lille, France; (N.G.); (A.L.); (S.B.-V.); (M.B.); (M.C.); (E.F.); (C.-M.A.-D.); (G.C.)
- Laboratoire Ecologie et Biodiversité, Faculté de Gestion Economie et Sciences, Institut Catholique de Lille, F-59000 Lille, France
| | - Jacky Karpouzopoulos
- Coordination Mammalogique du Nord de la France, Groupe Mammifères Marins, F-62850 Alembon, France; (J.K.); (J.-L.B.); (C.R.)
| | - Jean-Luc Bourgain
- Coordination Mammalogique du Nord de la France, Groupe Mammifères Marins, F-62850 Alembon, France; (J.K.); (J.-L.B.); (C.R.)
| | - Célia Rault
- Coordination Mammalogique du Nord de la France, Groupe Mammifères Marins, F-62850 Alembon, France; (J.K.); (J.-L.B.); (C.R.)
| | - Fabien Demaret
- Observatoire PELAGIS - UMS 3462, La Rochelle Université/CNRS, F-17000 La Rochelle, France;
| | - Martha Baydoun
- Univ. Lille, CNRS, Inserm, CHU Lille, Institut Pasteur de Lille, U1019 – UMR 9017 – CIIL – Centre d’Infection et d’Immunité de Lille, F-59000 Lille, France; (N.G.); (A.L.); (S.B.-V.); (M.B.); (M.C.); (E.F.); (C.-M.A.-D.); (G.C.)
| | - Magali Chabé
- Univ. Lille, CNRS, Inserm, CHU Lille, Institut Pasteur de Lille, U1019 – UMR 9017 – CIIL – Centre d’Infection et d’Immunité de Lille, F-59000 Lille, France; (N.G.); (A.L.); (S.B.-V.); (M.B.); (M.C.); (E.F.); (C.-M.A.-D.); (G.C.)
| | - Emilie Fréalle
- Univ. Lille, CNRS, Inserm, CHU Lille, Institut Pasteur de Lille, U1019 – UMR 9017 – CIIL – Centre d’Infection et d’Immunité de Lille, F-59000 Lille, France; (N.G.); (A.L.); (S.B.-V.); (M.B.); (M.C.); (E.F.); (C.-M.A.-D.); (G.C.)
| | - Cécile-Marie Aliouat-Denis
- Univ. Lille, CNRS, Inserm, CHU Lille, Institut Pasteur de Lille, U1019 – UMR 9017 – CIIL – Centre d’Infection et d’Immunité de Lille, F-59000 Lille, France; (N.G.); (A.L.); (S.B.-V.); (M.B.); (M.C.); (E.F.); (C.-M.A.-D.); (G.C.)
| | - Mélanie Gay
- French Agency for Food, Environmental and Occupational Health and Safety (Anses), Laboratory for Food Safety, F-62200 Boulogne-sur-mer, France; (Y.S.); (L.-L.L.); (M.G.)
| | - Gabriela Certad
- Univ. Lille, CNRS, Inserm, CHU Lille, Institut Pasteur de Lille, U1019 – UMR 9017 – CIIL – Centre d’Infection et d’Immunité de Lille, F-59000 Lille, France; (N.G.); (A.L.); (S.B.-V.); (M.B.); (M.C.); (E.F.); (C.-M.A.-D.); (G.C.)
- Délégation à la Recherche Clinique et à l’Innovation, Groupement des Hôpitaux de l’Institut Catholique de Lille, F-59000 Lille, France
| | - Eric Viscogliosi
- Univ. Lille, CNRS, Inserm, CHU Lille, Institut Pasteur de Lille, U1019 – UMR 9017 – CIIL – Centre d’Infection et d’Immunité de Lille, F-59000 Lille, France; (N.G.); (A.L.); (S.B.-V.); (M.B.); (M.C.); (E.F.); (C.-M.A.-D.); (G.C.)
- Correspondence:
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Higuera A, Villamizar X, Herrera G, Giraldo JC, Vasquez-A LR, Urbano P, Villalobos O, Tovar C, Ramírez JD. Molecular detection and genotyping of intestinal protozoa from different biogeographical regions of Colombia. PeerJ 2020; 8:e8554. [PMID: 32195042 PMCID: PMC7067185 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.8554] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2019] [Accepted: 01/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Intestinal parasitic protozoa represent a serious problem of public health particularly in developing countries. Protozoa such as Blastocystis, Giardia intestinalis, Entamoeba histolytica and Cryptosporidium spp. are associated with diarrheal symptoms. In Colombia, there is little region-specific data on the frequency and circulating genotypes/species of these microorganisms. Therefore, the main objective of our study was to employ molecular detection and genotyping of G. intestinalis and Blastocystis, Cryptosporidium and Entamoeba spp. in samples from different biogeographical regions of Colombia. Methods We collected 649 human fecal samples from five biogeographical regions of Colombia: the Amazon, Andean, Caribbean, Orinoco and Pacific regions. Blastocystis, G. intestinalis, Cryptosporidium spp. and Entamoeba complex were detected by microscopy and conventional PCR. Molecular genotyping was conducted to identify Blastocystis subtypes (STs) (18s), G. intestinalis assemblages (triose phosphate isomerase and glutamate dehydrogenase) and Cryptosporidium species (18s). Genetic diversity indices were determined using dnasp.5. Results We detected G. intestinalis in 45.4% (n = 280) of samples, Blastocystis in 54.5% (n = 336) of samples, Cryptosporidium spp. in 7.3% (n = 45) of samples, Entamoeba dispar in 1.5% (n = 9) of samples, and Entamoeba moshkovskii in 0.32% (n = 2) of samples. Blastocystis STs 1–4, 8 and 9 and G. intestinalis assemblages AII, BIII, BIV, D and G were identified. The following Cryptosporidium species were identified: C. hominis, C. parvum, C. bovis, C. andersoni, C. muris, C. ubiquitum and C. felis. The Caribbean region had the highest frequency for each of the microorganisms evaluated (91.9% for G. duodenalis, 97.3% for Blastocystis, 10.8% for Cryptosporidium spp., 13.5% for E. dispar and 2.7% for E. moshkovskii). The Orinoco region had a high frequency of Blastocystis (97.2%) and the Andean region had a high frequency of G. intestinalis (69.4%). High and active transmission was apparent in several regions of the country, implying that mechanisms for prevention and control of intestinal parasitosis in different parts of the country must be improved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adriana Higuera
- Grupo de Investigaciones Microbiológicas-UR (GIMUR), Departamento de Biología, Facultad de Ciencias Naturales, Universidad del Rosario, Bogota, Colombia
| | - Ximena Villamizar
- Grupo de Investigaciones Microbiológicas-UR (GIMUR), Departamento de Biología, Facultad de Ciencias Naturales, Universidad del Rosario, Bogota, Colombia
| | - Giovanny Herrera
- Grupo de Investigaciones Microbiológicas-UR (GIMUR), Departamento de Biología, Facultad de Ciencias Naturales, Universidad del Rosario, Bogota, Colombia
| | | | - Luis Reinel Vasquez-A
- Centro de Estudios en Microbiología y Parasitología (CEMPA), Departamento de Medicina Interna, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad del Cauca, Popayan, Colombia
| | - Plutarco Urbano
- Grupo de Investigaciones Biológicas de la Orinoquia, Unitrópico, Yopal, Colombia
| | - Oswaldo Villalobos
- Hospital Local Santa María de Mompox, Programas Especiales (Lepra y TB), Mompox, Bolivar, Colombia
| | - Catalina Tovar
- Grupo de Enfermedades Tropicales y Resistencia Bacteriana, Universidad del Sinú, Monteria, Colombia
| | - Juan David Ramírez
- Grupo de Investigaciones Microbiológicas-UR (GIMUR), Departamento de Biología, Facultad de Ciencias Naturales, Universidad del Rosario, Bogota, Colombia
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Suwanti LT, Susana Y, Hastutiek P, Suprihati E, Lastuti NDR. Blastocystis spp. subtype 10 infected beef cattle in Kamal and Socah, Bangkalan, Madura, Indonesia. Vet World 2020; 13:231-237. [PMID: 32255963 PMCID: PMC7096301 DOI: 10.14202/vetworld.2020.231-237] [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] [Received: 07/08/2019] [Accepted: 12/26/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and Aim: Blastocystis spp. is a gastrointestinal parasite that can infect both humans and animals and has the potential to become a zoonotic parasite. This study analyzed a subtype (ST) of Blastocystis spp. that had infected beef cattle in Kamal and Socah, Bangkalan, Madura, Indonesia. Materials and Methods: Fresh stool samples were collected from 108 beef cattle at Kamal and Socah, Bangkalan, Madura, Indonesia. Blastocystis spp. were detected both morphologically and genetically based on the 18S rRNA gene. The morphology of Blastocystis spp. from the stool samples and cultured samples were observed under a light microscope. Blastocystis spp. from 20 positive cultures were amplified through polymerase chain reaction, and the resultant sequences were identified by ST. Results: One hundred and eight (100%) fecal samples from the fresh or cultured stools were positive morphologically for Blastocystis spp. Molecularly, all 20 of the samples selected for DNA analysis were found to be Blastocystis spp. ST 10. Conclusion: Based on morphological and molecular detection, the prevalence of Blastocystis spp. infection in beef cattle within Kamal and Socah, Bangkalan, Madura, Indonesia, was high. About 100% were non-zoonotic parasites. This was the first report of Blastocystis spp. ST 10 found in infected beef cattle in Kamal and Socah, Bangkalan, Madura, Indonesia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucia Tri Suwanti
- Department of Veterinary Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universitas Airlangga, Jl. Mulyorejo, Kampus C Unair, Surabaya, 60115, Indonesia.,Toxoplasmosis Study Group, Institute of Tropical Diseases, Universitas Airlangga, Jl. Mulyorejo, Campus C Unair, Surabaya 60115, Indonesia
| | - Yuli Susana
- Magister Student, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universitas Airlangga, Jl. Mulyorejo, Campus C Unair, Surabaya 60115, Indonesia
| | - Poedji Hastutiek
- Department of Veterinary Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universitas Airlangga, Jl. Mulyorejo, Kampus C Unair, Surabaya, 60115, Indonesia
| | - Endang Suprihati
- Department of Veterinary Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universitas Airlangga, Jl. Mulyorejo, Kampus C Unair, Surabaya, 60115, Indonesia
| | - Nunuk Dyah Retno Lastuti
- Department of Veterinary Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universitas Airlangga, Jl. Mulyorejo, Kampus C Unair, Surabaya, 60115, Indonesia
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Chai Y, Deng L, Liu H, Yao J, Zhong Z, Fu H, Shen L, Zhou Z, Deng J, Hu Y, Peng G. First subtyping of Blastocystis sp. from pet rodents in southwestern China. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL FOR PARASITOLOGY-PARASITES AND WILDLIFE 2020; 11:143-148. [PMID: 32071861 PMCID: PMC7011001 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijppaw.2020.01.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2019] [Revised: 01/24/2020] [Accepted: 01/25/2020] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
Blastocystis sp. is a common eukaryotic parasite, which infects humans as well as various other animals. To date, epidemiological data regarding the detection rate and distribution of Blastocystis sp. subtypes in pet rodents are lacking in China; the present study aims to fill this gap. A total of 503 fecal samples collected from pets in different locations in southwestern China were screened for the presence of Blastocystis sp. using a nested PCR amplification of SSU rRNA method. Forty-two samples (8.35%) tested positive for Blastocystis sp. colonization. Two subtypes of Blastocystis sp. were identified based on nucleotide sequence homology and phylogenetic analysis: Blastocystis ST4 was present in 41 samples, and Blastocystis ST17 was found in 1 sample. Our results revealed robust host preference of Blastocystis ST4 and confirmed that Blastocystis ST17 can also parasitize rodents. This is the first survey of Blastocystis sp. from pet rodent in southwestern of China and that 503 rodents were surveyed. Forty-two samples (8.35%) tested positive for Blastocystis sp. colonization. Forty-one isolates were identified as subtype ST4 and one as ST17. Subtype ST4 shows a robust host preference for rodents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yijun Chai
- The Key Laboratory of Animal Disease and Human Health of Sichuan Province, College of Veterinary Medicine, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, Sichuan, 611130, China
| | - Lei Deng
- The Key Laboratory of Animal Disease and Human Health of Sichuan Province, College of Veterinary Medicine, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, Sichuan, 611130, China
| | - Haifeng Liu
- The Key Laboratory of Animal Disease and Human Health of Sichuan Province, College of Veterinary Medicine, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, Sichuan, 611130, China
| | - Jingxin Yao
- The Key Laboratory of Animal Disease and Human Health of Sichuan Province, College of Veterinary Medicine, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, Sichuan, 611130, China
| | - Zhijun Zhong
- The Key Laboratory of Animal Disease and Human Health of Sichuan Province, College of Veterinary Medicine, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, Sichuan, 611130, China
| | - Hualin Fu
- The Key Laboratory of Animal Disease and Human Health of Sichuan Province, College of Veterinary Medicine, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, Sichuan, 611130, China
| | - Liuhong Shen
- The Key Laboratory of Animal Disease and Human Health of Sichuan Province, College of Veterinary Medicine, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, Sichuan, 611130, China
| | - Ziyao Zhou
- The Key Laboratory of Animal Disease and Human Health of Sichuan Province, College of Veterinary Medicine, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, Sichuan, 611130, China
| | - Junliang Deng
- The Key Laboratory of Animal Disease and Human Health of Sichuan Province, College of Veterinary Medicine, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, Sichuan, 611130, China
| | - Yanchun Hu
- The Key Laboratory of Animal Disease and Human Health of Sichuan Province, College of Veterinary Medicine, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, Sichuan, 611130, China
| | - Guangneng Peng
- The Key Laboratory of Animal Disease and Human Health of Sichuan Province, College of Veterinary Medicine, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, Sichuan, 611130, China
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Zanetti ADS, Malheiros AF, de Matos TA, Longhi FG, Moreira LM, Silva SL, Castrillon SKI, Ferreira SMB, Ignotti E, Espinosa OA. Prevalence of Blastocystis sp. infection in several hosts in Brazil: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Parasit Vectors 2020; 13:30. [PMID: 31937366 PMCID: PMC6961275 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-020-3900-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2019] [Accepted: 01/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Blastocystis sp. affects a wide variety of animals and is the most common protozoan in human fecal samples with potential pandemic distribution. In the present study, a systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted to determine the prevalence and distribution of Blastocystis sp. in different classes of hosts in Brazil. METHODS Studies that analyzed hosts of various classes, including humans, domestic animals, wild animals or captive animals, were considered. The pooled prevalence of Blastocystis sp. infection was estimated by random effects models. RESULTS For humans, similar prevalence rates were found for males (31.0%, 95% CI: 17.0-45.0%; weight 10%) and females (28.0%, 95% CI: 16.0-41.0%; weight 10%); the state of Mato Grosso do Sul showed the highest prevalence, with 41.0% positivity (95% CI: 36.0-46.0%; weight 2.9%). The prevalence among immunocompromised patients was 5.0% (95% CI: 3.0-7.0%; weight 10%), and the most common cause of immunosuppression was hemodialysis, with 23.0% (95% CI: 17.0-29.0%; weight 12.4%). Among classifications according to interaction with humans, wild and domestic animals presented values of 19.0% (95% CI: 7.0-31.0%; weight 42.6%) and 17.0% (95% CI: 13.0-21.0%; weight 29.6%), respectively. Among these animals, mammals (39.0%, 95% CI: 21.0-56.0%; weight 47.3%) and birds (18.0%, 95% CI: 10.0-27.0%; weight 39.3%) exhibited the highest prevalence. Phylogenetic analysis of Blastocystis sp. revealed greater genetic diversity for clades of subtypes (STs) ST1, ST2 and ST3. CONCLUSIONS The overall prevalence of Blastocystis sp. in the Brazilian human population was 24%, which reflects the reality in the South, Southeast and Midwest regions, where prevalence rates of up to 40% were found. Among animals, mammals and birds exhibited the highest prevalence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andernice Dos Santos Zanetti
- Post-Graduation Program in Environmental Science, Faculty of Agricultural and Biological Sciences, State University of Mato Grosso (UNEMAT), Cáceres, Mato Grosso, Brazil
| | - Antonio Francisco Malheiros
- Post-Graduation Program in Environmental Science, Faculty of Agricultural and Biological Sciences, State University of Mato Grosso (UNEMAT), Cáceres, Mato Grosso, Brazil
| | - Tatiane Amorim de Matos
- Post-Graduation Program in Environmental Science, Faculty of Agricultural and Biological Sciences, State University of Mato Grosso (UNEMAT), Cáceres, Mato Grosso, Brazil
| | - Fabiana Gulin Longhi
- The Brazilian Centre for Evidence-based Healthcare: A Joanna Briggs Institute Centre of Excellence, São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Luciana Melhorança Moreira
- Faculty of Agricultural and Biological Sciences, State University of Mato Grosso (UNEMAT), Cáceres, Mato Grosso, Brazil
| | - Samuel Laudelino Silva
- Faculty of Agricultural and Biological Sciences, State University of Mato Grosso (UNEMAT), Cáceres, Mato Grosso, Brazil
| | - Solange Kimie Ikeda Castrillon
- Post-Graduation Program in Environmental Science, Faculty of Agricultural and Biological Sciences, State University of Mato Grosso (UNEMAT), Cáceres, Mato Grosso, Brazil
| | - Silvana Margarida Benevides Ferreira
- The Brazilian Centre for Evidence-based Healthcare: A Joanna Briggs Institute Centre of Excellence, São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil.,Post-Graduation Program in Nursing, Federal University of Mato Grosso (UFMT), Cuiabá, Mato Grosso, Brazil
| | - Eliane Ignotti
- Post-Graduation Program in Environmental Science, Faculty of Agricultural and Biological Sciences, State University of Mato Grosso (UNEMAT), Cáceres, Mato Grosso, Brazil.,Department of Nursing, Faculty of Health Sciences, State University of Mato Grosso (UNEMAT), Cáceres, Mato Grosso, Brazil
| | - Omar Ariel Espinosa
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, State University of Mato Grosso (UNEMAT), Cáceres, Mato Grosso, Brazil.
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Li J, Karim MR, Li D, Rahaman Sumon SM, Siddiki SF, Rume FI, Sun R, Jia Y, Zhang L. Molecular characterization of Blastocystis sp. in captive wildlife in Bangladesh National Zoo: Non-human primates with high prevalence and zoonotic significance. Int J Parasitol Parasites Wildl 2019; 10:314-320. [PMID: 31867211 PMCID: PMC6906819 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijppaw.2019.11.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2019] [Revised: 11/10/2019] [Accepted: 11/10/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Blastocystis sp. is a protozoan parasite, commonly found in the gastrointestinal tracts of animals and humans globally. The parasitic species has wide genetic diversity. Currently the mammalian and avian isolates of the parasite are grouped into 17 well known subtypes (STs), of which ten (ST1-ST9, ST12) are reported in humans. To assess the genetic diversity of Blastocystis sp. in wildlife, a total of 200 fresh fecal samples were collected from 32 mammalian wildlife species in Bangladesh National Zoo. Blastocystis sp. was screened and subtyped by PCR amplification and sequencing of the small subunit ribosomal RNA (SSU rRNA) gene. The minimum prevalence of Blastocystis sp. infection was 15.5% (31/200) in zoo animals. Eight out of 32 wildlife animal species (25.0%) were infected with Blastocystis sp. Among them, the occurrence of Blastocystis sp. was higher in non-human primates (NHPs) (31.8%) than that in herbivores (4.9%) and carnivores (0). Nucleotide sequence analysis of the SSU rRNA gene revealed seven different Blastocystis sp. subtypes, such as ST1, ST2, ST3, ST10, ST11, ST13 and ST14 in the wild animals. ST3 was the dominant subtype (41.9%, 13/31) being detected in NHPs. Of the 31 Blastocystis sp. isolates from the wild animals, 24 (77.4%) isolates belonged to the most common subtypes (ST1 to ST3) found in humans. This is the first molecular study of Blastocystis sp. in wild animals in Bangladesh. This study highlights the remarkable genetic diversity in Blastocystis sp. isolates from zoo animals and provides the first molecular evidence from spotted deer, gayal and grey langur. Due to circulation of large percentage of potentially zoonotic subtypes in the wild animals, there is a higher risk of zoonotic transmission of Blastocystis sp. in the zoo keepers and visitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junqiang Li
- Academy of Chinese Medicine, Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, 450046, China
- College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, 450046, China
| | - Md. Robiul Karim
- Department of Medicine, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman Agricultural University, Gazipur, 1706, Bangladesh
| | - Dongfang Li
- College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, 450046, China
| | | | - S.H.M. Faruk Siddiki
- Department of Medicine, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman Agricultural University, Gazipur, 1706, Bangladesh
| | - Farzana Islam Rume
- Department of Microbiology and Public Health, Patuakhali Science and Technology University, Barishal, 8210, Bangladesh
| | - Ruiqin Sun
- Academy of Chinese Medicine, Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, 450046, China
| | - Yaquan Jia
- Academy of Chinese Medicine, Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, 450046, China
| | - Longxian Zhang
- College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, 450046, China
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Oliveira-Arbex AP, David ÉB, Tenório MDS, Cicchi PJP, Patti M, Coradi ST, Lucheis SB, Jim J, Guimarães S. Diversity of Blastocystis subtypes in wild mammals from a zoo and two conservation units in southeastern Brazil. INFECTION GENETICS AND EVOLUTION 2019; 78:104053. [PMID: 31683006 DOI: 10.1016/j.meegid.2019.104053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2019] [Revised: 09/23/2019] [Accepted: 09/26/2019] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
The enteric protist Blastocystis is one of the most commonly parasite reported in humans and a variety of animal hosts worldwide. Regarding genetic diversity, at least 17 subtypes (STs) have been identified in mammals and birds, with eight of them (ST1-8) infecting both humans and animals. Recently, isolates from wild mammalian species have been genetically characterized, however data is still scarce, mainly in Latin America. Here, we aimed to verify the occurrence and genetic diversity of Blastocystis in captive wild mammals kept in one zoo and in two units of protection and conservation in southeastern Brazil. A total of 78 fecal samples (14 pooled and 64 individual samples) were recovered from 102 wild mammals of 35 species included in the following orders: Primates, Carnivora, Artiodactyla, Pilosa, Rodentia and Marsupialia. Zoo and units staff were invited to participated but only 16 fecal samples could be screened. Based on the sequence analyses of SSUrDNA gene, out of 29 PCR products from animal samples, 51.7% (15/29) were successfully sequenced and five Blastocystis subtypes were identified as follows: ST1 (2/15; 13.3%), ST2 (2/15; 13.3%), ST3 (4/15; 26.6%), ST5 (2/15; 13.3%) and ST8 (5/14; 33.3%). Only four isolates from humans were sequenced and identified as ST1 (2 isolates), ST2 and ST3. It was observed that Blastocystis infecting non-human primates belong to ST1 and ST2 and mainly to ST3 and ST8, artiodactyls ST5, carnivores ST1 and ST5 and rodents ST1. In addition, this present study reports some interesting findings: (1) 63% (12/19) of Blastocystis isolates from animals and employees belonged to the potentially zoonotic subtypes ST1-ST3; (2) most of these isolates displayed high identity with publicly available DNA sequences from non-human primates and humans, including primate handlers; (3) Blastocystis ST5 was found infecting the northern tiger cat, a native South American felid and one of the species facing a high risk of extinction in Brazil.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Paula Oliveira-Arbex
- Department of Parasitology, Institute of Bioscience, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Botucatu, SP, Brazil; Integrated Faculties of Bauru (FIB), Bauru, SP, Brazil
| | - Érica Boarato David
- Department of Parasitology, Institute of Bioscience, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Botucatu, SP, Brazil; Sagrado Coração University (USC), Department of Health Sciences, Bauru, SP, Brazil
| | - Michely da Silva Tenório
- Tropical Diseases Postgraduate Program, Medical School, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Botucatu, SP, Brazil
| | - Paulo José Pyles Cicchi
- Department of Zoology, Institute of Bioscience, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Botucatu, SP, Brazil
| | - Mariella Patti
- Sagrado Coração University (USC), Department of Health Sciences, Bauru, SP, Brazil
| | | | | | - Jorge Jim
- Department of Zoology, Institute of Bioscience, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Botucatu, SP, Brazil
| | - Semíramis Guimarães
- Department of Parasitology, Institute of Bioscience, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Botucatu, SP, Brazil.
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