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Gao ZQ, Wang HT, Hou QY, Qin Y, Yang X, Zhao Q, Ma H. Prevalence and subtypes of Blastocystis in wild rodents from three provinces in China. Front Vet Sci 2024; 11:1432741. [PMID: 39071781 PMCID: PMC11274486 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2024.1432741] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2024] [Accepted: 07/01/2024] [Indexed: 07/30/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Blastocystis is one of the most critical intestinal protozoans in various hosts, including humans and mice. To determine the status of Blastocystis infection in wild rodents in China. Methods A total of 344 faecal samples were collected from seven wild rodent species from three provinces, and the small subunit ribosomal RNA (SSU rRNA) genes of Blastocystis were amplified to determine their prevalence and subtypes. Results Of the 344 samples, 54 (15.70%) were detected as Blastocystis-positive. The prevalence of Blastocystis was 26.14% (40/153), 7.95% (7/88), and 6.80% (7/103) in wild rodents from Hunan Province, Yunnan Province, and Guangxi Province, respectively. The prevalence of Blastocystis in different wild rodent species varied from 0.00% (0/13) in Mus musculus to 40.00% (2/5) in Rattus rattus sladeni. The prevalence of Blastocystis in samples from the lake beach area (27.40%, 40/146) was significantly higher than in those from the mountain (6.80%, 7/103) and field regions (7.37%, 7/95). The prevalence in different seasons was 26.14% in summer (40/153), 7.95% in autumn (7/88), and 6.80% in winter (7/103). Moreover, a total of two Blastocystis subtypes were identified in the investigated wild rodents, including ST4 and ST5. Discussion The present study discovered the existence of Blastocystis infection in Rattus favipectus, Microtus fortis, Apodemus agrarius, Bandicota indica, Rattus rattus sladeni, and Rattus losea, expanding the host range of this parasite. The findings also demonstrate that wild rodents may be an important potential infection source for Blastocystis infection in humans and other animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhen-Qiu Gao
- School of Pharmacy, Yancheng Teachers University, Yancheng, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Hai-Tao Wang
- College of Life Sciences, Changchun Sci-Tech University, Shuangyang, Jilin Province, China
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, Shandong Province, China
| | - Qing-Yu Hou
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, Shandong Province, China
| | - Ya Qin
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, Shandong Province, China
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun, Jilin Province, China
| | - Xing Yang
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, School of Basic Medicine, Dali University, Dali, Yunnan Province, China
| | - Quan Zhao
- College of Life Sciences, Changchun Sci-Tech University, Shuangyang, Jilin Province, China
| | - He Ma
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, Shandong Province, 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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Marangi M, Boughattas S, De Nittis R, Pisanelli D, Delli Carri V, Lipsi MR, La Bella G, Serviddio G, Niglio M, Lo Caputo S, Margaglione M, Arena F. Prevalence and genetic diversity of Blastocystis sp. among autochthonous and immigrant patients in Italy. Microb Pathog 2023; 185:106377. [PMID: 37839760 DOI: 10.1016/j.micpath.2023.106377] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2023] [Revised: 10/01/2023] [Accepted: 10/02/2023] [Indexed: 10/17/2023]
Abstract
The prevalence of Blastocystis sp., its genetic diversity and the distribution of circulating subtypes (STs) were molecularly investigated in a cohort of autochthonous and immigrant patients with gastrointestinal symptoms hospitalized over the period February 2022-June 2023 at the Policlinico Ospedaliero-Universitario "Riuniti", Foggia, in Southern Italy. The population variables, including patient geographical origin, gender and age classes were reported. Out of the 927 investigated patients, 36 (3.9%) were positive for Blastocystis sp. A statistically significant association with African origin and age classes >18 years old was found. ST1 (allele 4), ST2 (alleles 9, 13), ST3 (alleles 34, 36) and ST4 (allele 92) were the subtypes detected with a different distribution between autochthonous and immigrant patients. Co-infections with enteric protozoa such as Giardia duodenalis and Dientamoeba fragilis, pathogenic bacteria as Clostridioides difficile, Campylobacter jejuni and Aeromonas sp. and viral infections such as Norovirus were found in 33% of cases. This is the first study of Blastocystis sp., its circulating subtypes and allele variability among patients with different geographical origin in an area of Southern Italy, in the Central Mediterranean, characterized by high immigrant pressure. These results provide baseline data to better investigate a potential interaction between Blastocystis sp. and other risk factors in patients with gastrointestinal symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marianna Marangi
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Foggia, Viale Luigi Pinto, 71122, Foggia, Italy.
| | | | - Rosella De Nittis
- Microbiology and Virology Unit, Ospedali Riuniti, Viale Luigi Pinto, 71122, Foggia, Italy.
| | - Daniela Pisanelli
- Microbiology and Virology Unit, Ospedali Riuniti, Viale Luigi Pinto, 71122, Foggia, Italy.
| | - Valeria Delli Carri
- Microbiology and Virology Unit, Ospedali Riuniti, Viale Luigi Pinto, 71122, Foggia, Italy.
| | - Maria Rosaria Lipsi
- Microbiology and Virology Unit, Ospedali Riuniti, Viale Luigi Pinto, 71122, Foggia, Italy.
| | - Gianfranco La Bella
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Foggia, Viale Luigi Pinto, 71122, Foggia, Italy; Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Puglia e della Basilicata, Via Manfredonia 20, Foggia, Italy.
| | - Gaetano Serviddio
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Foggia, Viale Luigi Pinto, 71122, Foggia, Italy.
| | - Mariangela Niglio
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Foggia, Viale Luigi Pinto, 71122, Foggia, Italy.
| | - Sergio Lo Caputo
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Foggia, Viale Luigi Pinto, 71122, Foggia, Italy.
| | - Maurizio Margaglione
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Foggia, Viale Luigi Pinto, 71122, Foggia, Italy.
| | - Fabio Arena
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Foggia, Viale Luigi Pinto, 71122, Foggia, Italy; Microbiology and Virology Unit, Ospedali Riuniti, Viale Luigi Pinto, 71122, Foggia, Italy.
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Rauff-Adedotun AA, Lee IL, Abd Talib N, Shaari N, Yahaya ZS, Meor Termizi FH. Prevalence, potential risk factors and genetic diversity of Blastocystis in ruminant livestock animals from Penang, Malaysia. Parasitol Res 2023; 122:2193-2205. [PMID: 37462745 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-023-07920-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2023] [Accepted: 07/02/2023] [Indexed: 08/17/2023]
Abstract
Blastocystis is a unicellular, anaerobic protist inhabiting the intestinal tract of diverse animal hosts, including human. Information regarding Blastocystis in small ruminants, namely goats and sheep, is limited globally; thus, this study was carried out to investigate the distribution and determinants of Blastocystis in ruminant livestock animals from Penang, Malaysia. Fecal samples from 127 cattle, 149 goats, and 100 sheep were examined for Blastocystis by in vitro cultivation using modified Jones' medium, while DNA barcoding was used for subtyping. Overall, 23.1% (87/376) of animals screened were positive for Blastocystis sp. The prevalence of infection was significantly higher in goats than in cattle and sheep, while the female gender, semi-intensive farming system, and the Northeast Penang Island district were identified as potential risk factors for Blastocystis infection. Blastocystis sp. ST5, ST14, and ST25 were identified in cattle; ST5, ST10, ST13, and ST14 in goats; and ST4, ST5, ST14, and ST15 in sheep. ST5 and ST14 were found to be the most abundant and widespread subtypes in the study area. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of ST4 from sheep and ST13 from goats, thus serving as an update to the host range of Blastocystis sp. ST4 and ST13. The isolation of ST4 and ST5 in this study suggests that ruminant livestock animals could serve as reservoirs of human infection.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ii Li Lee
- Kulliyyah of Medicine & Health Sciences, Universiti Islam Antarabangsa Sultan Abdul Halim Mu'adzam Shah, 09300, Kuala Ketil, Kedah, Malaysia
| | - Nabilah Abd Talib
- Department of Veterinary Services, 14000, Bukit Mertajam, Penang, Malaysia
| | - Nurshafarina Shaari
- Kulliyyah of Medicine & Health Sciences, Universiti Islam Antarabangsa Sultan Abdul Halim Mu'adzam Shah, 09300, Kuala Ketil, Kedah, Malaysia
| | - Zary Shariman Yahaya
- School of Biological Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, 11800, Penang, Malaysia
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Martín-Escolano R, Ng GC, Tan KSW, Stensvold CR, Gentekaki E, Tsaousis AD. Resistance of Blastocystis to chlorine and hydrogen peroxide. Parasitol Res 2023; 122:167-176. [PMID: 36378332 PMCID: PMC9816239 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-022-07713-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2022] [Accepted: 10/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Blastocystis is a ubiquitous, widely distributed protist inhabiting the gastrointestinal tract of humans and other animals. The organism is genetically diverse, and so far, at least 28 subtypes (STs) have been identified with ST1-ST9 being the most common in humans. The pathogenicity of Blastocystis is controversial. Several routes of transmission have been proposed including fecal-oral (e.g., zoonotic, anthroponotic) and waterborne. Research on the latter has gained traction in the last few years with the organism having been identified in various bodies of water, tap water, and rainwater collection containers including water that has been previously filtered and/or chlorinated. Herein, we assessed the resistance of 11 strains maintained in culture, spanning ST1-ST9 to various chlorine and hydrogen peroxide concentrations for 24 h, and performed recovery assays along with re-exposure. Following the treatment with both compounds, all subtypes showed increased resistance, and viability could be visualized at the cellular level. These results are hinting at the presence of mechanism of resistance to both chlorine and hydrogen peroxide. As such, this pilot study can be the platform for developing guidelines for water treatment processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rubén Martín-Escolano
- Laboratory of Molecular and Evolutionary Parasitology, RAPID Group, School of Biosciences, University of Kent, Canterbury, CT2 7NJ, UK
| | - Geok Choo Ng
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, 5 Science Drive 2, Singapore, 117545, Singapore
| | - Kevin S W Tan
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, 5 Science Drive 2, Singapore, 117545, Singapore
| | - C Rune Stensvold
- Department of Bacteria, Parasites and Fungi, Statens Serum Institut, Artillerivej 5, 2300, Copenhagen S, Denmark
| | - Eleni Gentekaki
- Gut Microbiome Research Group, Mae Fah Luang University, Chiang Rai, 57100, Thailand. .,School of Science, Mae Fah Luang University, Chiang Rai, 57100, Thailand.
| | - Anastasios D Tsaousis
- Laboratory of Molecular and Evolutionary Parasitology, RAPID Group, School of Biosciences, University of Kent, Canterbury, CT2 7NJ, UK.
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Darwish B, Aboualchamat G, Al Nahhas S. Molecular characterization of Blastocystis subtypes in symptomatic patients from the southern region of Syria. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0283291. [PMID: 36928869 PMCID: PMC10019620 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0283291] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2022] [Accepted: 03/03/2023] [Indexed: 03/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Blastocystis sp. is an enteric protist found in humans and a wide range of animal hosts. Genetic variations were established among the 38 different subtypes detected so far, 14 of which are commonly found in human and animal hosts. The aim of the present study is to estimate the prevalence of the common Blastocystis subtypes and evaluate the possible correlation with several variables (gender, age, symptoms, domestic animals…), among patients from the southern region of Syria. Fecal samples were collected from individuals suffering from gastrointestinal complaints. Microscopic examination along with genotype analyses using seven pairs of subtype-specific primers was performed. Our results revealed the presence of Blastocystis sp. in 46 isolates out of the 60 samples microscopically studied (76.7%); single infection was detected in 24 isolates whereas co-infection with other protozoa was identified in 22 ones. Molecular detection targeting the SSU rRNA gene revealed a 100% positive presence of Blastocystis sp. in all the samples. Genotyping results detected the presence of five different subtypes (ST1-ST5) with varying proportions. However, ST1 was the dominant subtype observed (66.7%). Mixed subtype infections were found in 9 isolates (15%). Three samples remained undefined, nonetheless. Our statistical results showed no significant correlation between Blastocystis STs infection and the different studied variables. In conclusion, this study provides the first genetic characterization of Blastocystis subtypes prevalence in patients from the southern region of Syria. ST1 distribution was highly predominant. Further molecular studies are needed to estimate the prevalence of Blastocystis sp. infection in other regions in Syria and to understand the epidemiology and sources of transmission to humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Buthaina Darwish
- Department of Animal Biology, Faculty of Science, Damascus University, Damascus, Syria
| | - Ghalia Aboualchamat
- Department of Animal Biology, Faculty of Science, Damascus University, Damascus, Syria
| | - Samar Al Nahhas
- Department of Animal Biology, Faculty of Science, Damascus University, Damascus, Syria
- * E-mail: ,
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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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Prevalence and Associated Factors of Blastocystis sp. Infection in Patients with Gastrointestinal Symptoms in Spain: A Case-Control Study. Trop Med Infect Dis 2022; 7:tropicalmed7090226. [PMID: 36136637 PMCID: PMC9503631 DOI: 10.3390/tropicalmed7090226] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2022] [Revised: 08/29/2022] [Accepted: 09/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Blastocystis sp. is known to be the most prevalent parasite in fecal samples of humans worldwide. In the present report, a case–control study (1:9.89 (≈10)) was performed, by analyzing data from 3682 patients who attended a public hospital in the northern area of Spain showing gastrointestinal symptoms. Diagnosis was performed in human fecal samples by means of optical microscopy. The prevalence of Blastocystis sp. in patients with gastrointestinal symptoms was 9.18% (338/3682). Most of the Blastocystis sp.-infected patients tested negative for protozoa and helminths, and were underweight and foreign-born (26.4%), mainly from Africa and Central/South America. Gastrointestinal symptoms, such as abdominal pain, anorexia, halitosis, plus relative eosinophilia, as well as co-infections with pathogenic bacteria were associated with Blastocystis sp. infection. Both type 2 diabetes and treatment with immunosuppressive medicines at the time of Blastocystis sp. detection were associated with a higher proportion of infected patients. This is the first case–control study of Blastocystis sp. in humans in northern Spain and may contribute to surveillance and intervention strategies by public health authorities.
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Nasim N, El-Zein A, Thomas J. A review of rural and peri-urban sanitation infrastructure in South-East Asia and the Western Pacific: Highlighting regional inequalities and limited data. Int J Hyg Environ Health 2022; 244:113992. [PMID: 35752101 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijheh.2022.113992] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2021] [Revised: 05/22/2022] [Accepted: 06/03/2022] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Rural and peri-urban communities in developing countries rely on sanitation systems which are often unsafely managed. One of the major barriers to assess safely managed sanitation is a lack of data about the existing sanitation infrastructure and levels of containment safety. The aim was to review rural and peri-urban on-site sanitation studies in order to understand different infrastructure types, associated management practices and any impacts on human health. The scope was limited to South-East Asia and Western Pacific regions in order to better identify regional inequalities. Among the 155 reviewed articles, 73 studies (47%) linked sanitation infrastructure to poor human health. Nearly all articles reported latrine ownership (n = 149, 96%) while sanitation infrastructure types were covered less frequently (n = 104, 67%). In particular, there was a lack of published literature describing back-end characteristics (dimension and materials) (n = 12, 8%) and/or management practices (n = 4, 3%). This stems from a limited application of research methodologies that characterise sanitation infrastructure and faecal sludge management (containment, emptying and on-site treatment). Inequality between regions was prevalent with three quarters of the studies on latrine back-end infrastructure from Bangladesh and India in South-East Asia. A strategic research approach is needed to address the current knowledge gaps regarding sanitation infrastructure and safe faecal sludge management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nabeela Nasim
- School of Civil Engineering, The University of Sydney, Australia.
| | - Abbas El-Zein
- School of Civil Engineering, The University of Sydney, Australia.
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Liu X, Ni F, Wang R, Li J, Ge Y, Yang X, Qi M, Zhang L. Occurrence and subtyping of Blastocystis in coypus (Myocastor coypus) in China. Parasit Vectors 2022; 15:14. [PMID: 34991712 PMCID: PMC8734224 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-021-05126-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2021] [Accepted: 12/11/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Blastocystis is an anaerobic unicellular protist frequently detected in the gastrointestinal tracts of humans and animals worldwide. However, the prevalence and subtype distribution of Blastocystis in the coypu (Myocastor coypus) population have not been reported so far. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence, genetic characteristics, and zoonotic potential of Blastocystis isolates detected in coypus in China. RESULTS A total of 308 fecal samples were collected from coypus in seven regions across China and subsequently examined. Blastocystis was detected in 44 (14.3%) specimens by nested PCR amplification of the small subunit ribosomal rRNA (SSU rRNA) gene. Further DNA sequencing and phylogenetic analyses resulted in the identification of two zoonotic known subtypes, ST4 and ST5, and an unknown subtype. ST4 was the most predominant subtype observed in the samples. ST5 infections were only observed in three coypus. Factors that were associated with prevalence of Blastocystis included age, geographical region and subtype. Interestingly, this is the first report about a potentially novel subtype infecting coypus. CONCLUSIONS This is the first comprehensive report of Blastocystis in M. coypus across a wide geographic range of China. A moderate degree of genetic divergence was observed. The presence of zoonotic subtypes in farmed M. coypus suggests that these animals have the potential to transmit blastocystosis to both humans and domestic animals. These findings provide a better understanding of the genetic diversity of Blastocystis in rodents and contribute towards the establishment of efficient blastocystosis control strategies in the investigated areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuehan Liu
- College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Henan Institute of Science and Technology, Xinxiang, 453003 Henan Province China
- Postdoctoral Research Base, College of Veterinary Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, 450046 Henan Province China
| | - Fuzhen Ni
- College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Henan Institute of Science and Technology, Xinxiang, 453003 Henan Province China
| | - Rongjun Wang
- Postdoctoral Research Base, College of Veterinary Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, 450046 Henan Province China
| | - Junqiang Li
- Postdoctoral Research Base, College of Veterinary Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, 450046 Henan Province China
| | - Yaming Ge
- College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Henan Institute of Science and Technology, Xinxiang, 453003 Henan Province China
| | - Xuefeng Yang
- College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Henan Institute of Science and Technology, Xinxiang, 453003 Henan Province China
| | - Meng Qi
- College of Animal Science, Tarim University, Alar, 843300 Xinjiang Province China
| | - Longxian Zhang
- Postdoctoral Research Base, College of Veterinary Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, 450046 Henan Province China
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Liu X, Ge Y, Wang R, Dong H, Yang X, Zhang L. First report of Blastocystis infection in Pallas's squirrels (Callosciurus erythraeus) in China. Vet Res Commun 2021; 45:441-445. [PMID: 33987777 DOI: 10.1007/s11259-021-09797-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2021] [Accepted: 05/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Blastocystis, an intestinal anaerobic protist with high genetic diversity, inhabits a variety of hosts worldwide, including rodents. However, there have been few studies on squirrel Blastocystis infections in China to date. Herein, 171 fecal samples from Pallas's squirrels (Callosciurus erythraeus) sold as pets were collected to investigate the prevalence and genetic characteristics of Blastocystis. A total of 10 Blastocystis-positive samples (10/171, 5.9%) were obtained by PCR amplification and DNA sequencing of the barcode region of the SSU rRNA gene. Blastocystis subtype analysis revealed four known subtypes, namely, ST1, ST3, ST5 and ST6, with ST5 and ST6 being predominant. Phylogenetic analysis was performed to identify each subtype. To our knowledge, this study is the first to explore Blastocystis infection in Pallas's squirrels, expanding the host range of this parasite. Moreover, multiple zoonotic subtypes were found in Pallas's squirrels, suggesting that these animals may serve as reservoirs for pathogens of human Blastocystis infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuehan Liu
- Postdoctoral Research Base, College of Veterinary Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, 450046, China.
- College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Henan Institute of Science and Technology, Xinxiang, 453003, China.
| | - Yaming Ge
- College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Henan Institute of Science and Technology, Xinxiang, 453003, China
| | - Rongjun Wang
- Postdoctoral Research Base, College of Veterinary Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, 450046, China
| | - Haiju Dong
- Postdoctoral Research Base, College of Veterinary Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, 450046, China
| | - Xuefeng Yang
- College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Henan Institute of Science and Technology, Xinxiang, 453003, China
| | - Longxian Zhang
- Postdoctoral Research Base, College of Veterinary Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, 450046, China.
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Rauff-Adedotun AA, Meor Termizi FH, Shaari N, Lee IL. The Coexistence of Blastocystis spp. in Humans, Animals and Environmental Sources from 2010-2021 in Asia. BIOLOGY 2021; 10:990. [PMID: 34681089 PMCID: PMC8533399 DOI: 10.3390/biology10100990] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2021] [Revised: 09/22/2021] [Accepted: 09/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Blastocystis spp. are controversial unicellular protists that inhabit the gastrointestinal tract of humans and a wide range of animals worldwide. This review provides an overview of the prevalence and distribution of Blastocystis spp. and their subtypes throughout Asia. Research articles reporting on the presence of Blastocystis spp. in locations within Asia, between 1 January 2010, and 10 May 2021, were obtained from Scopus, PubMed, and Google Scholar. In 427 articles, the prevalence of Blastocystis spp. in 31 countries within the last decade was revealed. Isolates were found in humans, various mammals, birds, reptiles, insects, water sources, vegetables, and ambient air. Prevalence of Blastocystis spp. varied widely across host categories. Subtypes identified throughout Asia were STs 1-14, and ST18-22 (novel subtypes). ST1, ST2, ST3, ST4 were the most frequently isolated in humans; ST5 in pigs; ST10 and ST14 in goats, sheep, and cattle; and ST6 and ST7 in chickens. ST1 and ST3 were most common in water samples. ST1, ST2, ST3, ST4, ST5 and ST6 were shared by humans, animals, and water sources. There is a growing interest in the study of Blastocystis spp. and their subtypes in Asia. Due to the isolation of Blastocystis spp. from biotic and abiotic sources in Asia, the application of the One Health (OH) approach to the study of Blastocystis spp. is proposed for improved perception of this organism.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Farah Haziqah Meor Termizi
- School of Biological Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur 11800, Malaysia; (A.A.R.-A.); (F.H.M.T.)
| | - Nurshafarina Shaari
- Kulliyyah of Medicine & Health Sciences, Universiti Islam Antarabangsa Sultan Abdul Halim Mu’adzam Shah, Kuala Ketil 09300, Malaysia;
| | - Ii Li Lee
- Kulliyyah of Medicine & Health Sciences, Universiti Islam Antarabangsa Sultan Abdul Halim Mu’adzam Shah, Kuala Ketil 09300, Malaysia;
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Symptomatic and Asymptomatic Protist Infections in Hospital Inpatients in Southwestern China. Pathogens 2021; 10:pathogens10060684. [PMID: 34072858 PMCID: PMC8226927 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens10060684] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2021] [Revised: 05/11/2021] [Accepted: 05/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Cryptosporidium spp., Entamoeba histolytica, Giardia duodenalis, and Blastocystis sp. infections have been frequently reported as etiological agents for gastroenteritis, but also as common gut inhabitants in apparently healthy individuals. Between July 2016 and March 2017, stool samples (n = 507) were collected from randomly selected individuals (male/female ratio: 1.1, age range: 38–63 years) from two sentinel hospitals in Tengchong City Yunnan Province, China. Molecular (PCR and Sanger sequencing) methods were used to detect and genotype the investigated protist species. Carriage/infection rates were: Blastocystis sp. 9.5% (95% CI: 7.1–12.4%), G. duodenalis 2.2% (95% CI: 1.1–3.8%); and E. histolytica 2.0% (95% CI: 0.9–3.6%). Cryptosporidium spp. was not detected at all. Overall, 12.4% (95% CI: 9.7–15.6) of the participants harbored at least one enteric protist species. The most common coinfection was E. histolytica and Blastocystis sp. (1.0%; 95% CI: 0.3–2.2). Sequence analyses revealed that 90.9% (10/11) of the genotyped G. duodenalis isolates corresponded to the sub-assemblage AI. The remaining sequence (9.1%, 1/11) was identified as sub-assemblage BIV. Five different Blastocystis subtypes, including ST3 (43.7%, 21/48), ST1 (27.1%, 13/48), ST7 (18.8%, 9/48), ST4 (8.3%, 4/48), and ST2 (2.1%, 1/48) were identified. Statistical analyses confirmed that (i) the co-occurrence of protist infections was purely random, (ii) no associations were observed among the four protist species found, and (iii) neither their presence, individually or jointly, nor the patient’s age was predictors for developing clinical symptoms associated with these infections. Overall, these protist mono- or coinfections are asymptomatic and do not follow any pattern.
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Robles-Cabrera MX, Maguiña JL, Gonzales-Huerta L, Panduro-Correa V, Dámaso-Mata B, Pecho-Silva S, Navarro-Solsol AC, Rabaan AA, Rodríguez-Morales AJ, Arteaga-Livias K. Blastocystis species and Gastrointestinal Symptoms in Peruvian Adults Attended in a Public Hospital. Infect Chemother 2021; 53:374-380. [PMID: 34216131 PMCID: PMC8258296 DOI: 10.3947/ic.2021.0004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2021] [Accepted: 04/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The objective of this study was to evaluate the role of Blastocystis sp. in gastrointestinal symptoms reported by adult patients in a Peruvian hospital. A case-control 3:1 study was performed at the outpatient clinic. Direct stool examinations were done. One hundred sixty patients were included, 40 cases and 120 controls. Positivity to Blastocystis sp. was associated with dyspepsia (P <0.001), bloating (P <0.001) and abdominal pain (P = 0.03) in patients attending our hospital outpatient clinic.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jorge L Maguiña
- Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Científica del Sur, Lima, Perú
| | - Luis Gonzales-Huerta
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Vicky Panduro-Correa
- Faculty of Medicine, Universidad Nacional Hermilio Valdizán, Huánuco, Perú.,Hospital Regional Hermilio Valdizán Medrano, Huánuco, Perú
| | - Bernardo Dámaso-Mata
- Faculty of Medicine, Universidad Nacional Hermilio Valdizán, Huánuco, Perú.,Hospital II Huánuco, EsSalud. Huánuco, Perú
| | - Samuel Pecho-Silva
- Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Científica del Sur, Lima, Perú
| | | | - Ali A Rabaan
- Molecular Diagnostic laboratory, Johns Hopkins Aramco Healthcare, Dhahran, Saudi Arabia
| | - Alfonso J Rodríguez-Morales
- Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Científica del Sur, Lima, Perú.,Grupo de Investigacion Biomedicina, Faculty of Medicine, Fundacion Universitaria Autónoma de las Americas, Pereira, Risaralda, Colombia
| | - Kovy Arteaga-Livias
- Faculty of Medicine, Universidad Nacional Hermilio Valdizán, Huánuco, Perú.,Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Científica del Sur, Lima, Perú.,Hospital II Huánuco, EsSalud. Huánuco, Perú.
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