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Bahrami S, Asadi Z, Zarei M, Hamidinejat H, Henriquez FL. Exposure to sublethal concentrations of chlorine enhances the cytotoxicity of Acanthamoeba castellanii. Parasitol Res 2023; 122:1371-1380. [PMID: 37037947 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-023-07837-z] [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: 11/22/2022] [Accepted: 03/30/2023] [Indexed: 04/12/2023]
Abstract
Free-living amoebae belonging to the genus Acanthamoeba are the causative agents of infections in humans and animals. Many studies are being conducted to find effective compounds against amoebae, but their sublethal concentration effects on surviving amoebae seem to have been overlooked. Chlorine is a common disinfection agent commonly added to public water facilities and supplies. In this study, the cytopathic and phagocytic properties of Acanthamoeba castellanii trophozoites following exposure to sublethal concentrations of chlorine were examined. Two hours of exposure to 5 ppm hypochlorite calcium was considered the sublethal concentration for A. castellanii trophozoites. To compare the pathogenic potential of treated and untreated Acanthamoeba trophozoites, cytotoxicity, adhesion assays in RAW 264.7 macrophages, osmo, and thermotolerance tests were carried out. Bacterial uptake was assessed in treated cells to evaluate their phagocytic characteristics. Oxidative stress biomarkers and antioxidant activities were compared in treated and untreated trophozoites. Finally, the mRNA expression of the mannose-binding protein (MBP), cysteine protease 3 (CP3), and serine endopeptidase (SEP) genes was determined in cells. In all the experiments, untreated trophozoites were considered the control. In comparison to untreated trophozoites, in chlorine-treated trophozoites, cytopathic effects were more extensive and resulted in the detachment of macrophage monolayers. Treated trophozoites could not grow at high temperatures (43 °C). Besides, they showed osmotolerance to 0.5 M D-mannitol but not to 1 M. Results demonstrated a higher bacterial uptake rate by chlorine-treated trophozoites than untreated cells. The treated and untreated cells had significantly different glutathione and glutathione/glutathione disulfide ratios. Antioxidant enzyme activities, total antioxidant capacity, and malondialdehyde levels were increased significantly in chlorine-treated cells. Quantifying mRNA expression in chlorine-treated trophozoites revealed that virulence genes were upregulated. Chlorine can form resistance and virulent amoebae if it is not used at a proper concentration and exposure time. Identification of stress responses, their mechanisms in Acanthamoeba, and their relation to amoeba virulence would give us a better perception of their pathophysiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Somayeh Bahrami
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Shahid Chamran University of Ahvaz, Ahvaz, Iran.
| | - Zeinab Asadi
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Shahid Chamran University of Ahvaz, Ahvaz, Iran
| | - Mehdi Zarei
- Department of Food Hygiene, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Shahid Chamran University of Ahvaz, Ahvaz, Iran
| | - Hossein Hamidinejat
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Shahid Chamran University of Ahvaz, Ahvaz, Iran
| | - Fiona L Henriquez
- Institute of Biomedical and Environmental Health Research, School of Health and Life Sciences, University of the West of Scotland (UWS), Paisley, PA1 2BE, Scotland, UK
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2
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El-Wakil ES, El-Kholy HS, El-Araby RE, Ghallab MM. Genotype diversity, phylogenetic analysis and seasonality of isolates of Acanthamoeba spp. in swimming pools in Kafrelsheikh, Egypt. Folia Parasitol (Praha) 2022; 69. [DOI: 10.14411/fp.2022.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2022] [Accepted: 08/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
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3
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Krishnamoorthi S, Sharma C, Mewara A, Khurana S. Environmental water surveillance for free-living amoeba in North India. Indian J Med Microbiol 2022; 40:389-393. [PMID: 35660264 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijmmb.2022.05.002] [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: 02/19/2022] [Revised: 05/09/2022] [Accepted: 05/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Free-living amoebae (FLA) exist in various environmental sources and are the causative agents of many serious human diseases. We surveyed various natural and artificial water bodies in areas of north India to detect the presence of FLA species. MATERIALS AND METHODS Surface water samples were collected from 29 water bodies and subjected to microscopy, non-nutrient agar (NNA) culture, and various polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assays for the detection of FLA. RESULTS FLA were found in 62.1% (18/29) of the natural and artificial water bodies by NNA culture. Based on PCR based detection, Acanthamoeba spp. was identified in 41.4% (12/29), Vannella spp./Vahlkampfia ovis in 17.2% (5/29) and Naegleria spp. in 20.7% (6/29) of the samples from different locations. PCR-sequencing of Naegleria positive samples identified them as Naegleria australiensis and Naegleria species. CONCLUSIONS The present study reports widespread occurrence of medically important FLA species in various natural and artificial water bodies, and highlights the need for regular molecular surveillance of FLA in the environment for better control and prevention of the diseases caused by FLA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sivanantham Krishnamoorthi
- Department of Medical Parasitology, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India
| | - Chayan Sharma
- Department of Medical Parasitology, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India
| | - Abhishek Mewara
- Department of Medical Parasitology, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India.
| | - Sumeeta Khurana
- Department of Medical Parasitology, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India
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4
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Shawkey LA, Elfeky FA, Abou-Elnour BM, El-Wakil ES. Molecular characterization and phylogenetic analysis of FLA from different water sources in Egypt. JOURNAL OF WATER AND HEALTH 2022; 20:450-458. [PMID: 36366997 DOI: 10.2166/wh.2022.289] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Free-living amoebae (FLA) are protozoa ubiquitously found in nature. In addition to their natural distribution, some species have been documented as pathogenic to humans. The main aim of the current study was the molecular identification, sequencing and phylogenetic analysis of morphologically detected FLA in water sources in El-Qalyubia, Egypt. A total of 96 water samples were collected from different water sources. Each water sample was filtrated and cultured on non-nutrient agar (NNA). Morphologically positive FLA were subjected to PCR, PCR products were sequenced and the obtained sequences were phylogenetically analysed. FLA were found in 41 water samples examined (42.7%). Nile water and groundwater were the sources with the highest prevalence rates (83.3 and 62.5%, respectively). Naegleria italica was first identified in Egypt from the waters of the Nile. In addition, Vahlkampfia spp. and Hartmannella spp. were also detected. However, other FLA species, including Acanthamoeba spp. and the pathogenic Naegleria fowleri, previously reported in Egypt, were not included in this study. The recent identification of these FLA in the Egyptian waters related to human populations indicates the need for more phylogenetic studies using larger sample sizes to investigate their potential threat to human health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lamiaa A Shawkey
- Reference Laboratory for Drinking Water, Holding Company of Water and Waste Water, Shopra Elkhiema, Qalyubia 13772, Egypt
| | - Faten A Elfeky
- Zoology Department, Faculty of Science for Girls, Al-Azhar University, 11754 Cairo, Egypt
| | - Basma M Abou-Elnour
- Zoology Department, Faculty of Science for Girls, Al-Azhar University, 11754 Cairo, Egypt
| | - Eman S El-Wakil
- Department of Parasitology, Theodor Bilharz Research Institute, Kornaish El-Nile, Warrak El-Hadar, Imbaba (P.O. 30), Giza 12411, Egypt E-mail:
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5
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Norouzi M, Saberi R, Niyyati M, Lorenzo-Morales J, Mirjalali H, Fatemi M, Javanmard E, Karamati SA. Molecular Identification of Pathogenic Free-Living Amoeba from Household Biofilm Samples in Iran: A Risk Factor for Acanthamoeba Keratitis. Microorganisms 2021; 9:microorganisms9102098. [PMID: 34683419 PMCID: PMC8537737 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms9102098] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2021] [Revised: 09/22/2021] [Accepted: 09/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Free-living amoeba (FLA) are ubiquitously distributed in the environment. However, they are also the causative agents of opportunistic infections in humans and other animals. A biofilm comprises any syntrophic consortium of microorganisms in which cells stick to each other and often also to a surface. Moreover, FLA have been detected in various biofilms around the world. Therefore, the present study aimed to check for presence of FLA in samples from household biofilms in Iran and to characterize them at the molecular level. A total of 69 biofilm samples collected from showerheads, kitchen areas, and bathroom sinks were analyzed. Positive samples for FLA were characterized at the morphological and molecular levels. Furthermore, the results of morphology analysis indicated that 26.08% (18/69) of biofilm samples were positive for Acanthamoeba spp., Vermamoeba genus, and Vahlkampfiids. According to sequence analysis, five strains of Acanthamoeba isolates related to the T4 genotype and two strains belonged to the T2 genotype. In addition, the pathogenic potential of Acanthamoeba-positive isolates was conducted using the tolerance ability test. The results of BLASTn of Vermamoeba sequences were similar to what was expected for Vermamoeba vermiformis. The above-mentioned reasons revealed that the relative high contamination of household biofilm samples with FLA may pose a risk for people using soft contact lenses and for patients with traumatic cataract. Our finding proposes that filtration should be performed in shower heads and indicates the need to monitor people at increased risk of Acanthamoeba keratitis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maryam Norouzi
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran 11369, Iran; (M.N.); (M.F.)
| | - Reza Saberi
- Department of Medical Parasitology, School of Medicine, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari 48175, Iran;
| | - Maryam Niyyati
- Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran 11369, Iran
- Correspondence: or
| | - Jacob Lorenzo-Morales
- Instituto Universitario de Enfermedades Tropicales y Salud Pública de Canarias (IUETSPC), Universidad de La Laguna (ULL), Avda. Astrofísico Fco. Sánchez s/n, 38203 San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Spain;
- Red de Investigación Cooperativa en Enfermedades Tropicales (RICET), 28006 Madrid, Spain
- Departamento de Obstetricia y Ginecología, Pediatría, Medicina Preventiva y Salud Pública, Toxicología, Medicina Legal y Forense y Parasitología, Universidad de La Laguna (ULL), 38200 San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Spain
| | - Hamed Mirjalali
- Foodborne and Waterborne Diseases Research Center, Research Institute for Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran 11369, Iran;
| | - Marziye Fatemi
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran 11369, Iran; (M.N.); (M.F.)
| | - Ehsan Javanmard
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran 14114, Iran;
| | - Seyed Ahmad Karamati
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, Faculty of Medicine, Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran 57169, Iran;
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6
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Berrilli F, Di Cave D, Novelletto A, Montalbano Di Filippo M. PCR-based identification of thermotolerant free-living amoebae in Italian hot springs. Eur J Protistol 2021; 80:125812. [PMID: 34139569 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejop.2021.125812] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2021] [Revised: 05/07/2021] [Accepted: 05/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Several thermal areas, also used for leisure purposes, may represent suitable habitats for free-living amoebae (FLAs), but few studies have been carried out in search for these organisms. The aim of this study was to assess the presence and distribution of FLAs by culture detection and molecular identification, over a one year-round sampling of two sites in Central Italy. Two geothermal springs (Site A and Site B) were investigated for a total of 36 water samples. Four sets of primers were used to amplify FLA DNA from all cultures positive for amoebic growth at both 37 °C and 45 °C. Overall, 33 (91.6%) water samples produced PCR amplification. Eleven taxa were identified. The array of identified species varied over the sampling period, and differed between the two hot springs, Site A harbouring 11 taxa compared to 5 of site B. However, both sites were characterized by the most common species Vermamoeba vermiformis and Naegleria australiensis. Acanthamoeba genotypes T4 and T15 were found at low frequency. Differences in the composition between the two sites could reflect environmental changes in biotic and chemical/physical parameters. From a public health perspective, the detection of potentially pathogenic amoebae could unveil a potential risk for humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Federica Berrilli
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Translational Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Via Montpellier 1, 00133 Rome, Italy.
| | - David Di Cave
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Translational Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Via Montpellier 1, 00133 Rome, Italy
| | - Andrea Novelletto
- Department of Biology, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Via della Ricerca Scientifica 1, 00133 Rome, Italy
| | - Margherita Montalbano Di Filippo
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Translational Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Via Montpellier 1, 00133 Rome, Italy
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7
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Siddiqui R, Makhlouf Z, Khan NA. The Increasing Importance of Vermamoeba vermiformis. J Eukaryot Microbiol 2021; 68:e12857. [PMID: 33987951 DOI: 10.1111/jeu.12857] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Vermamoeba vermiformis are one of the most prevalent free-living amoebae. These amoebae are ubiquitous and also thermotolerant. Of concern, V. vermiformis have been found in hospital water networks. Furthermore, associations between V. vermiformis and pathogenic bacteria have been reported, such as Legionella pneumophila. Moreover, V. vermiformis are well known to host viruses, bacteria, and other microorganisms and cases of keratitis due to V. vermiformis in conjunction with other amoebae have been reported. Despite the preceding, the medical importance of V. vermiformis is still an ongoing discussion and its genome has been only recently sequenced. Herein, we present a review of the current understanding of the biology and pathogenesis pertaining to V. vermiformis, as well as its' role as an etiological agent and trojan horse. An approach known as theranostics which combines both diagnosis and therapy could be utilized to eradicate and diagnose keratitis cases caused by such amoebae. Given the rise in global warming, it is imperative to investigate these rarely studied amoebae and to understand their importance in human health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruqaiyyah Siddiqui
- College of Arts and Sciences, American University of Sharjah, Sharjah, UAE
| | - Zinb Makhlouf
- College of Arts and Sciences, American University of Sharjah, Sharjah, UAE
| | - Naveed Ahmed Khan
- Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, UAE.,Research Institute for Medical and Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, UAE
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8
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Detection and Identification of Acanthamoeba and Other Nonviral Causes of Infectious Keratitis in Corneal Scrapings by Real-Time PCR and Next-Generation Sequencing-Based 16S-18S Gene Analysis. J Clin Microbiol 2021; 59:JCM.02224-20. [PMID: 33239372 PMCID: PMC8111161 DOI: 10.1128/jcm.02224-20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2020] [Accepted: 11/16/2020] [Indexed: 01/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Acanthamoeba is a free-living amoeba of extensive genetic diversity. It may cause infectious keratitis (IK), which can also be caused by bacteria, fungi, and viruses. Acanthamoeba is a free-living amoeba of extensive genetic diversity. It may cause infectious keratitis (IK), which can also be caused by bacteria, fungi, and viruses. High diagnostic sensitivity is essential to establish an early diagnosis of Acanthamoeba-associated keratitis. Here, we investigated the applicability of next-generation sequencing (NGS)-based ribosomal gene detection and differentiation (16S-18S) compared with specific real-time PCR for the detection of Acanthamoeba. Two hundred DNAs extracted from corneal scrapings and screened by Acanthamoeba-specific real-time PCR were analyzed using an in-house 16S-18S NGS assay. Of these, 24 were positive by specific real-time PCR, of which 21 were positive by the NGS assay. Compared with real-time PCR; the specificity and sensitivity of the NGS assay were 100% and 88%, respectively. Genotypes identified by the NGS assay included T4 (n = 19) and T6 (n = 2). Fungal and bacterial species of potential clinical relevance were identified in 31 of the samples negative for Acanthamoeba, exemplified by Pseudomonas aeruginosa (n = 11), Moraxella spp. (n = 6), Staphylococcus aureus (n = 2), Fusarium spp. (n = 4), and Candida albicans (n = 1). In conclusion, the 16S-18S assay was slightly less sensitive than real-time PCR in detecting Acanthamoeba-specific DNA in corneal scrapings. Robust information on genotypes was provided by the NGS assay, and other pathogens of potential clinical relevance were identified in 16% of the samples negative for Acanthamoeba. NGS-based detection of ribosomal genes in corneal scrapings could be an efficient screening method for detecting nonviral causes of IK, including Acanthamoeba.
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9
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Üstüntürk-Onan M. Isolation and identification of free-living amoebae isolated from well water in Istanbul. JOURNAL OF WATER AND HEALTH 2020; 18:1139-1145. [PMID: 33328382 DOI: 10.2166/wh.2020.255] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Free-living amoebae (FLA) are ubiquitous protozoa commonly found in water and soil environments. FLA belonging to various genera, including Acanthamoeba, Balamuthia, Naegleria, and Vermamoeba, can cause opportunistic and non-opportunistic infections in humans and animals such as keratitis or meningoencephalitis. In addition, some of them serve as hosts for a large number of pathogenic bacteria, yeasts, and viruses. The purpose of the present study was to assess the prevalence and molecular characterization of FLA in well water samples in İstanbul. Ten well water samples were collected from the taps and the presence of FLA was monitored both by the culture and polymerase chain reaction methods. FLA were isolated in 8 out of the 10 samples (80%) included in this study. Morphological analysis and partial sequencing of the 18S rDNA revealed the presence of Acanthamoeba genotypes T3 and T4, and Vermamoeba vermiformis in the investigated well water samples. This study reports for the first time the detection of Acanthamoeba genotype T3 in well water samples in İstanbul. The presence of potentially pathogenic amoebae in habitats related to human activities supports the relevance of FLA as a potential public health concern.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miray Üstüntürk-Onan
- Faculty of Science, Department of Biology, Fundamental and Industrial Microbiology Division, Istanbul University, 34134 Vezneciler-Istanbul, Turkey E-mail:
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10
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Moreno-Mesonero L, Ferrús MA, Moreno Y. Determination of the bacterial microbiome of free-living amoebae isolated from wastewater by 16S rRNA amplicon-based sequencing. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2020; 190:109987. [PMID: 32771367 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2020.109987] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2020] [Revised: 07/16/2020] [Accepted: 07/16/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Free-living amoebae (FLA) are ubiquitous protozoa commonly found in water. FLA are well-established hosts for amoeba-resistant bacteria, most of which are pathogenic, and offer them shelter from adverse environmental conditions or water treatments. Since there is very little knowledge about the complete bacterial microbiome of FLA, in this work the bacterial microbiome of FLA isolated from wastewater both after secondary and tertiary treatments was studied by amplicon-based sequencing. FLA were detected in 87.5% and 50.0% of wastewater samples taken after secondary and tertiary disinfection treatments, respectively. The most abundant bacterial phyla were Proteobacteria, Planctomycetes, Bacteroidetes and Firmicutes, which represented 83.77% of the total bacterial FLA microbiome. The most abundant class of bacteria was Gammaproteobacteria, which contains an important number of relevant pathogenic bacteria. The bacteria of public health concern Aeromonas, Arcobacter, Campylobacter, Helicobacter, Klebsiella, Legionella, Mycobacterium, Pseudomonas and Salmonella were detected as part of the FLA microbiome. Although different microbial communities were identified in each sample, there is no correlation between the microbiome of FLA and the extent of wastewater treatment. To our knowledge, this is the first work in which the bacterial microbiome of FLA isolated from wastewater is studied. Obtained results indicate that FLA are hosts of potentially pathogenic bacteria in treated wastewater used for irrigation, which may pose a public health threat.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Moreno-Mesonero
- Research Institute of Water and Environmental Engineering (IIAMA), Universitat Politècnica de València, 46022, Valencia, Spain.
| | - María Antonia Ferrús
- Biotechnology Department, Universitat Politècnica de València, 46022, Valencia, Spain.
| | - Yolanda Moreno
- Research Institute of Water and Environmental Engineering (IIAMA), Universitat Politècnica de València, 46022, Valencia, Spain.
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11
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Ballares LD, Masangkay FR, Dionisio J, Villaflores O, Pineda-Cortel MR, Milanez GD. Molecular detection of Acanthamoeba spp. in Seven Crater Lakes of Laguna, Philippines. JOURNAL OF WATER AND HEALTH 2020; 18:776-784. [PMID: 33095200 DOI: 10.2166/wh.2020.146] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Acanthamoeba spp. are ubiquitous free-living amoeba with genotypes that cause severe pathology of the eyes, central nervous systems, and rare reports of cutaneous infections. The Seven Crater Lakes are freshwater water resources in Laguna, Philippines primarily used for aquaculture and tourism. A total of 16 surface water samples were collected from different sampling areas per Crater Lake and placed in sterile plastic containers. Samples were filtered using 1.2 μm pore size, glass microfiber filter. Filtered sediments were placed on non-nutrient agar lawned with Escherichia coli and incubated aerobically at 35 °C for 14 days. Six out of 16 water samples exhibited amoebic growth. Cystic stages revealed circular to stellate morphology under light microscopy which were initially classified as Acanthamoeba spp. DNA from positive isolates were made to react with polymerase chain reaction using Acanthamoeba specific primers JDP1 5′-GGCCCAGATCGTTTACCGTGAA-3′ and JDP2 5′-TCTCACAAGCTGCTAGGGAGTCA-3′confirmed the presence of several Acanthamoeba species. Phylogenetic analysis revealed the presence of seven isolates belonging to Acanthamoeba genotypes T4, T5, and T9. The presence of potentially pathogenic Acanthamoeba genotypes in the Seven Crater Lakes of Laguna signifies risk to human health which necessitates the development of programs, policies, and guidelines on the understanding, prevention, and management of potential human infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lea D Ballares
- The Graduate School, Royal and Pontifical University of Santo Tomas, Manila 1015, Philippines E-mail: ; Department of Medical Technology, Far Eastern University-Manila, Manila 1015, Philippines
| | - Frederick R Masangkay
- Department of Medical Technology, Far Eastern University-Manila, Manila 1015, Philippines
| | - Joseph Dionisio
- Department of Medical Technology, Far Eastern University-Manila, Manila 1015, Philippines
| | - Oliver Villaflores
- The Graduate School, Royal and Pontifical University of Santo Tomas, Manila 1015, Philippines E-mail:
| | - Maria Ruth Pineda-Cortel
- The Graduate School, Royal and Pontifical University of Santo Tomas, Manila 1015, Philippines E-mail:
| | - Giovanni D Milanez
- Department of Medical Technology, Far Eastern University-Manila, Manila 1015, Philippines
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12
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Khorsandi Rafsanjani M, Hajialilo E, Saraei M, Alizadeh SA, Javadi A. Isolation and Molecular Identification of Acanthamoeba and Naegleria from Agricultural Water Canal in Qazvin, Iran. IRANIAN JOURNAL OF PARASITOLOGY 2020; 15:393-402. [PMID: 33082804 PMCID: PMC7548464 DOI: 10.18502/ijpa.v15i3.4204] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Background: Free-living amoeba (FLA) are widely distributed in different environmental sources. The most genera of the amoeba are Acanthamoeba, Naegleria and Vermamoeba. The most common consequences of the infections in immune-deficient and immuno-competent persons are amoebic encephalitis and keratitis. The aim of this study was to investigate the presence of Acanthamoeba spp. and Naegleria spp., isolated from the main agricultural water canal in Qazvin. Methods: Totally, 120 water specimens were collected and later the specimens were cultured and cloned to identify positive samples. PCR amplification and sequencing were carried out to identify the isolated species as well as the genotypes of amoeba. Results: According to morphological surveys, 41.7% (50/120) of water specimens were positive for FLA. Molecular analysis revealed that 68.6% and 31.4% of Acanthamoeba specimens were identified as T3 and T4 genotypes, respectively. Also, two species of Naegleria named as N. lovaniensis (57.1%) and Naegleria sp. (42.8%) were identified. The results of pathogenicity assays demonstrated that 38.5% of T3 and 61.5% of T4 genotypes of Acanthamoeba were highly pathogenic parasites. Conclusion: The water flowing in the agricultural canal of the area is contaminated with potential pathogenic FLA, therefore, it is recommended that more attention to be paid towards proper treatment of water sources to prevent possible risk of the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Elham Hajialilo
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Research Institute for Prevention of Non-Communicable Diseases, Qazvin University of Medical Sciences, Qazvin, Iran.,Department of Parasitology and Mycology, Qazvin University of Medical Sciences, Qazvin, Iran
| | - Mehrzad Saraei
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Research Institute for Prevention of Non-Communicable Diseases, Qazvin University of Medical Sciences, Qazvin, Iran.,Department of Parasitology and Mycology, Qazvin University of Medical Sciences, Qazvin, Iran
| | - Safar Ali Alizadeh
- Medical Microbiology Research Center, Qazvin University of Medical Sciences, Qazvin, Iran.,Department of Microbiology, Qazvin University of Medical Sciences, Qazvin, Iran
| | - Amir Javadi
- Department of Social Sciences, School of Medicine, Qazvin University of Medical Sciences, Qazvin, Iran
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13
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Attariani H, Turki H, Shoja S, Salahi-Moghaddam A, Ghanbarnejad A, Shamseddin J. Investigating the frequency of free-living amoeba in water resources with emphasis on Acanthamoeba in Bandar Abbas city, Hormozgan province, Iran in 2019-2020. BMC Res Notes 2020; 13:420. [PMID: 32891184 PMCID: PMC7487464 DOI: 10.1186/s13104-020-05267-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2020] [Accepted: 09/01/2020] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective These amoebas can cause dangerous illnesses when they accidentally enter the human body, so it is necessary to determine various forms of organisms in water resources to prevent the danger they can cause and risks to human health. Currently, in Bandar Abbas, there is no sufficient information about the distribution of Acanthamoeba, and we intended to study its frequency and determine the related genotypes. Results Out of 83 water samples collected from different resources in the city, 31 plates (37.3%) were found to be positive for free-living amoebae. Of these, five were identified as Acanthamoeba (6%) by culture method and 8 (9.6%) by molecular method. Positive sample sequence analysis enabled us to distinguish two genotypes of T4 (7 cases) and T15 (1 case) in this study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Homa Attariani
- Molecular Medicine Research Center, Hormozgan Health Institute, Hormozgan University of Medical Sciences, Bandar Abbas, Iran
| | - Habibollah Turki
- Molecular Medicine Research Center, Hormozgan Health Institute, Hormozgan University of Medical Sciences, Bandar Abbas, Iran
| | - Saeed Shoja
- Infectious and Tropical Diseases Research Center, Hormozgan Health Institute, Hormozgan University of Medical Sciences, Bandar Abbas, Iran
| | - Abdoreza Salahi-Moghaddam
- Molecular Medicine Research Center, Hormozgan Health Institute, Hormozgan University of Medical Sciences, Bandar Abbas, Iran
| | - Amin Ghanbarnejad
- Department of Public Health, Social Determinants in Health Promotion Research Center, Hormozgan Health Institute, Hormozgan University of Medical Sciences, Bandar Abbas, Iran
| | - Jebreil Shamseddin
- Molecular Medicine Research Center, Hormozgan Health Institute, Hormozgan University of Medical Sciences, Bandar Abbas, Iran.
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Vermamoeba vermiformis CDC-19 draft genome sequence reveals considerable gene trafficking including with candidate phyla radiation and giant viruses. Sci Rep 2020; 10:5928. [PMID: 32246084 PMCID: PMC7125106 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-62836-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2019] [Accepted: 03/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Vermamoeba vermiformis is a predominant free-living amoeba in human environments and amongst the most common amoebae that can cause severe infections in humans. It is a niche for numerous amoeba-resisting microorganisms such as bacteria and giant viruses. Differences in the susceptibility to these giant viruses have been observed. V. vermiformis and amoeba-resisting microorganisms share a sympatric lifestyle that can promote exchanges of genetic material. This work analyzed the first draft genome sequence of a V. vermiformis strain (CDC-19) through comparative genomic, transcriptomic and phylogenetic analyses. The genome of V. vermiformis is 59.5 megabase pairs in size, and 22,483 genes were predicted. A high proportion (10% (n = 2,295)) of putative genes encoded proteins showed the highest sequence homology with a bacterial sequence. The expression of these genes was demonstrated for some bacterial homologous genes. In addition, for 30 genes, we detected best BLAST hits with members of the Candidate Phyla Radiation. Moreover, 185 genes (0.8%) best matched with giant viruses, mostly those related to the subfamily Klosneuvirinae (101 genes), in particular Bodo saltans virus (69 genes). Lateral sequence transfers between V. vermiformis and amoeba-resisting microorganisms were strengthened by Sanger sequencing, transcriptomic and phylogenetic analyses. This work provides important insights and genetic data for further studies about this amoeba and its interactions with microorganisms.
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Milanez G, Masangkay F, Hapan F, Bencito T, Lopez M, Soriano J, Ascaño A, Lizarondo L, Santiago J, Somsak V, Kotepui M, Tsiami A, Tangpong J, Karanis P. Detection of Acanthamoeba spp. in two major water reservoirs in the Philippines. JOURNAL OF WATER AND HEALTH 2020; 18:118-126. [PMID: 32300086 DOI: 10.2166/wh.2020.190] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Water reservoirs are important manmade structures providing water security to deliver clean and safe water for drinking and other purposes to the community. Eighty water samples were collected from Magat and Ipo water reservoirs using purposive sampling between November 2018 and January 2019. Water samples were collected in sterile containers for testing. The samples were cultured in non-nutrient agar and lawned with Escherichia coli and incubated at 33 °C. Twelve out of the 80 (15%) water samples were positive for amoebic growth. Light and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) revealed double-walled cystic stages and were initially identified as Acanthamoeba spp. based on morphological characteristic in reference to Page's established criteria. Their extracted DNAs were used in polymerase chain reaction using JDP1 and JDP2 primers and confirmed the presence of Acanthamoeba DNA in agarose gel electrophoresis. Aligned sequences from PCR products were deposited in GenBank under accession numbers MK886460, MK909919, MK905437, MK910997, MK911021 and MK886514. The presence of potentially pathogenic Acanthamoeba spp. in water reservoirs is considered a potential risk for public health, requiring appropriate processing of water in treatment plants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giovanni Milanez
- Biomedical Science Program, School of Allied Health Sciences, Walailak University, Nakhon Si Thammarat 8016, Thailand E-mail: ; Department of Medical Technology, Far Eastern University, Manila, Philippines
| | - Frederick Masangkay
- Biomedical Science Program, School of Allied Health Sciences, Walailak University, Nakhon Si Thammarat 8016, Thailand E-mail: ; Department of Medical Technology, Far Eastern University, Manila, Philippines
| | - Frieda Hapan
- Department of Medical Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Royal and Pontifical University of Santo Tomas, Manila, Philippines
| | - Thea Bencito
- Department of Medical Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Royal and Pontifical University of Santo Tomas, Manila, Philippines
| | - Marcus Lopez
- Department of Medical Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Royal and Pontifical University of Santo Tomas, Manila, Philippines
| | - Jeffrey Soriano
- Department of Medical Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Royal and Pontifical University of Santo Tomas, Manila, Philippines
| | - Abdee Ascaño
- Department of Medical Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Royal and Pontifical University of Santo Tomas, Manila, Philippines
| | - Louella Lizarondo
- Department of Medical Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Royal and Pontifical University of Santo Tomas, Manila, Philippines
| | - Joseph Santiago
- Department of Medical Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Royal and Pontifical University of Santo Tomas, Manila, Philippines
| | - Voravuth Somsak
- Biomedical Science Program, School of Allied Health Sciences, Walailak University, Nakhon Si Thammarat 8016, Thailand E-mail:
| | - Manas Kotepui
- Biomedical Science Program, School of Allied Health Sciences, Walailak University, Nakhon Si Thammarat 8016, Thailand E-mail:
| | - Amalia Tsiami
- London Geller College of Hospitality and Tourism, University of West London, London, UK
| | - Jitbanjong Tangpong
- Biomedical Science Program, School of Allied Health Sciences, Walailak University, Nakhon Si Thammarat 8016, Thailand E-mail:
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First identification of Naegleria species and Vahlkampfia ciguana in Nile water, Cairo, Egypt: Seasonal morphology and phylogenetic analysis. JOURNAL OF MICROBIOLOGY, IMMUNOLOGY, AND INFECTION = WEI MIAN YU GAN RAN ZA ZHI 2020; 53:259-265. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jmii.2018.06.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2018] [Revised: 05/25/2018] [Accepted: 06/17/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
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Orosz E, Posta K. Genotyping of Acantamoeba spp. from rhisophere in Hungary. Acta Microbiol Immunol Hung 2019; 67:171-175. [PMID: 31833382 DOI: 10.1556/030.66.2019.041] [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: 06/17/2019] [Accepted: 10/14/2019] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
The protista Acanthamoeba is a free-living amoeba existing in various environments. A number of species among protista are recognized as human pathogens, potentially causing Acanthamoeba keratitis (AK), granulomatous amoebic encephalitis (GAE), and chronic granulomatous lesions. In this study, 10 rhizosphere samples were collected from maize and alfalfa plants in experimental station at Institute of Genetics, Microbiology and Biotechnology, Szent István University. We detected Acanthamoeba based on the quantitative real-time PCR assay and sequence analysis of the 18S rRNA gene. All studied molecular biological methods are suitable for the detection of Acanthamoeba infection in humans. The quantitative real-time PCR-based methods are more sensitive, simple, and easy to perform; moreover, these are opening avenue to detect the effect of number of parasites on human disease. Acanthamoeba species were detected in five (5/10; 50%) samples. All Acanthamoeba strains belonged to T4 genotype, the main AK-related genotype worldwide. Our result confirmed Acanthamoeba strains in rhizosphere that should be considered as a potential health risk associated with human activities in the environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erika Orosz
- 1 Department of Parasitology, National Public Health Center, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Katalin Posta
- 2 Institute of Genetics, Microbiology and Biotechnology, Szent István University, Gödöllo, Hungary
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18
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Mirahmadi H, Nia MM, Ebrahimzadeh A, Mehravaran A, Shafiei R, Rahimi MT, Emameh RZ, Barker HR. Genotyping determination of Acanthamoeba strains: an original study and a systematic review in Iran. JOURNAL OF WATER AND HEALTH 2019; 17:717-727. [PMID: 31638023 DOI: 10.2166/wh.2019.048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
This study aimed to detect the presence of Acanthamoeba spp. in different water resources of Zahedan, southeast of Iran, and also systematically reviewed all publications regarding Acanthamoeba in Iran (2005-2018). Fifty water samples were collected from different water resources in Zahedan. The positive samples were identified morphologically and subjected to polymerase chain reaction (PCR) using fragments of 18S rRNA. In the systematic review, data collection using particular terms was carried out using the following electronic databases including Science Direct, ISI Web of Science, MEDLINE, EBSCO, Scopus, and Google Scholar. A total of 17 (34%) samples were positive for Acanthamoeba spp., and nucleotide sequencing indicated that 15 samples (88.23%) belonged to the T4 genotype and the rest belonged to the T5 genotype. A total of 39 studies reported genotyping of Acanthamoeba spp. from various geographical areas of Iran and revealed that T4 (35 studies), T5 (19 studies), T3 (11 studies), T11 (8 studies), and T2 (6 studies) genotypes were the most prevalent in Iran. The T4 genotype of Acanthamoeba is a prevalent free-living amoeba and widely distributed not only in Zahedan but also in other provinces of Iran. Phylogenetic analysis reveals that A. castellanii and A. griffini predominantly colocalize with the T4 genotype.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hadi Mirahmadi
- Infectious Disease and Tropical Medicine Research Center, Tuberculosis Resistance Institute, Zahedan University of Medical Sciences, Zahedan, IranandDepartment of Parasitology and Mycology, Faculty of Medicine, Zahedan University of Medical Sciences, Zahedan, Iran
| | - Maryam Mansouri Nia
- Infectious Disease and Tropical Medicine Research Center, Tuberculosis Resistance Institute, Zahedan University of Medical Sciences, Zahedan, IranandDepartment of Parasitology and Mycology, Faculty of Medicine, Zahedan University of Medical Sciences, Zahedan, Iran
| | - Adel Ebrahimzadeh
- Infectious Disease and Tropical Medicine Research Center, Tuberculosis Resistance Institute, Zahedan University of Medical Sciences, Zahedan, IranandDepartment of Parasitology and Mycology, Faculty of Medicine, Zahedan University of Medical Sciences, Zahedan, Iran
| | - Ahmad Mehravaran
- Infectious Disease and Tropical Medicine Research Center, Tuberculosis Resistance Institute, Zahedan University of Medical Sciences, Zahedan, IranandDepartment of Parasitology and Mycology, Faculty of Medicine, Zahedan University of Medical Sciences, Zahedan, Iran
| | - Reza Shafiei
- Vector-borne Diseases Research Center, North Khorasan University of Medical Sciences, Bojnurd, Iran E-mail: ;
| | | | - Reza Zolfaghari Emameh
- Department of Energy and Environmental Biotechnology, National Institute of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (NIGEB), 14965/161 Tehran, Iran
| | - Harlan R Barker
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University, Tampere, Finland
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Moreno Y, Moreno-Mesonero L, García-Hernández J. DVC-FISH to identify potentially pathogenic Legionella inside free-living amoebae from water sources. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2019; 176:108521. [PMID: 31195295 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2019.06.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2019] [Revised: 04/11/2019] [Accepted: 06/01/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Despite all safety efforts, drinking and wastewater can still be contaminated by Legionella and free-living amoebae (FLA) since these microorganisms are capable of resisting disinfection treatments. An amoebae cyst harboring pathogenic Legionella spp. can be a transporter of this organism, protecting it and enhancing its infection abilities. Therefore, the aim of this work is to identify by DVC-FISH viable Legionella spp and Legionella pneumophila cells inside FLA from water sources in a specific and rapid way with the aim of assessing the real risk of these waters. A total of 55 water samples were processed, 30 reclaimed wastewater and 25 drinking water. FLA presence was detected in 52.7% of the total processed water samples. When DVC-FISH technique was applied, the presence of viable internalized Legionella spp. cells was identified in 69.0% of the total FLA-positive samples, concretely in 70.0% and 66.7% of wastewater and drinking water samples, respectively. L. pneumophila was simultaneously identified in 48.3% of the total FLA-positive samples, specifically in 50.0% and 44.4% of wastewater and drinking water samples, respectively. By culture, potentially pathogenic Legionella cells were recovered in 27.6% of the total FLA-positive bacteria, particularly in 35.0% and 11.1% of wastewater and drinking water samples, respectively. These findings demonstrate that FLA may promote resistance of bacteria to the performed disinfection treatments for drinking as well as for wastewater. So, in addition to the risk for the presence of pathogenic FLA in water it is necessary to take into account that these can be transporters of the pathogenic bacteria Legionella, which are able to survive inside them. The DVC-FISH method described here has been proved to be a rapid and specific tool to identify pathogenic Legionella spp. and L. penumophila viable cells harboured by FLA in these water sources, posing particular public health concern.
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Affiliation(s)
- Y Moreno
- Research Institute of Water and Environmental Ingeneering (IIAMA), Universitat Politècnica de València, 46022 Valencia, Spain.
| | - L Moreno-Mesonero
- Research Institute of Water and Environmental Ingeneering (IIAMA), Universitat Politècnica de València, 46022 Valencia, Spain
| | - J García-Hernández
- Biotechnology Department, Universitat Politècnica de València, 46022 Valencia, Spain
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20
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Milanez G, Masangkay F, Somsak V, Kotepui M, Tangpong J, Karanis P. Occurrence and the first report of Naegleria australiensis presence in a major lake in the Philippines. JOURNAL OF WATER AND HEALTH 2019; 17:647-653. [PMID: 31314001 DOI: 10.2166/wh.2019.034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Laguna de Bay or Laguna Lake is one of the six major lakes in the Philippines to be in close contact with population activities due to the expansion of urban settlements in the immediate cities surrounding the lake, thus pushing the population to settle upon its shores. To date, there are no data showing the biodiversity of free-living amoebae (FLA) present in this lake. The present study aims to isolate and identify the FLA present in Laguna de Bay, Philippines. Thirty subsurface water samples were taken from Laguna De Bay using random purposive sampling in May 2018 and were examined for amoebic growth under light microscopy (LM). Results show that 8 out of 30 (26.6%) water samples were positive for amoebic growth and were further tested for more advanced data and genetic variation of the species. Initial molecular analysis using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and sequencing showed the presence of potentially pathogenic FLA Naegleria australiensis (MK418954). The detection of potential pathogenic FLA in lakes and dams may prove useful in preventing and controlling possible human infections in the country. More data from this study will aid in public awareness and establishing safety guidelines and control programs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giovanni Milanez
- Biomedical Science Program, School of Allied Health Sciences, Walailak University, Nakhon Si Thammarat 8016, Thailand E-mail: ; Department of Medical Technology, Far Eastern University, Manila 1015, Philippines
| | - Frederick Masangkay
- Biomedical Science Program, School of Allied Health Sciences, Walailak University, Nakhon Si Thammarat 8016, Thailand E-mail: ; Department of Medical Technology, Far Eastern University, Manila 1015, Philippines
| | - Voravuth Somsak
- Biomedical Science Program, School of Allied Health Sciences, Walailak University, Nakhon Si Thammarat 8016, Thailand E-mail:
| | - Manas Kotepui
- Biomedical Science Program, School of Allied Health Sciences, Walailak University, Nakhon Si Thammarat 8016, Thailand E-mail:
| | - Jitbanjong Tangpong
- Biomedical Science Program, School of Allied Health Sciences, Walailak University, Nakhon Si Thammarat 8016, Thailand E-mail:
| | - Panagiotis Karanis
- Medical Faculty, Anatomy Center, University of Cologne, Cologne 50923, Germany
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21
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Spagnolo AM, Sartini M, Cave DD, Casini B, Tuvo B, Cristina ML. Evaluation of Microbiological and Free-Living Protozoa Contamination in Dental Unit Waterlines. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2019; 16:ijerph16152648. [PMID: 31344972 PMCID: PMC6696308 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph16152648] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2019] [Revised: 07/19/2019] [Accepted: 07/22/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Studies conducted over the last 40 years have demonstrated that the water output from dental unit waterlines (DUWLs) is often contaminated with high densities of microorganisms. It has been monitored the microbiological quality of the water in 30 public dental facilities in northern Italy in order to assess the health risk for patients and dental staff. In each facility, samples of water both from taps and from DUWLs were analyzed in order to evaluate heterotrophic plate counts (HPCs) at 22 °C and 36 °C, and to detect coliform bacteria, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Legionella pneumophila and amoebae. In 100% of the samples taken from the DUWLs, the concentration of HPCs was above the threshold as determined by the Ministère de la Santé et des Solidarités (2007). The concentration of P. aeruginosa was greater than the indicated threshold in 16.67% of the hand-pieces analyzed. A total of 78.33% of samples were contaminated by L. pneumophila, while in the samples taken from the DUWLs alone, this percentage rose to 86.67%. Amoebae were detected in 60% of the samples taken from hand-pieces; all belonging to the species V. vermiformis. This study documented the presence of various microorganisms, including Legionella spp., at considerably higher concentrations in water samples from DUWLs than in samples of tap water in the same facilities, confirming the role of the internal DUWLs in increasing microbial contamination, especially in the absence of proper management of waterborne health risks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Maria Spagnolo
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Genova, Via Pastore 1, 16132 Genova, Italy
| | - Marina Sartini
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Genova, Via Pastore 1, 16132 Genova, Italy.
| | - David Di Cave
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Translational Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, 00133 Rome, Italy
| | - Beatrice Casini
- Department of Translational Research and New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy
| | - Benedetta Tuvo
- Department of Translational Research and New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy
| | - Maria Luisa Cristina
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Genova, Via Pastore 1, 16132 Genova, Italy
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Maghsoodloorad S, Maghsoodloorad E, Tavakoli Kareshk A, Motazedian MH, Yusuf MA, Solgi R. Thermotolerant Acanthamoeba spp. isolated from recreational water in Gorgan City, north of Iran. J Parasit Dis 2019; 43:240-245. [PMID: 31263329 PMCID: PMC6570728 DOI: 10.1007/s12639-018-01081-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2018] [Accepted: 12/31/2018] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Acanthamoeba as free-living parasites are scattered ubiquitously, throughout the world. This study was aimed to evaluate the presence of Acanthamoeba spp. genotypes in the recreational water sources in Gorgan County, the capital of Golestan Province using both morphological and molecular approaches. Thirty water samples were collected from different recreational waters in Gorgan, the capital of Golestan Province, northern Iran during 2015-2016. Samples were filtered and followed by culture in non-nutrient agar. Acanthamoeba were identified both by morphological and molecular analysis. The pathogenical potential of positive cloned samples were also determined using tolerance test. Twenty-six percent of recreational water were identified as Acanthamoeba spp. based on the morphological analysis and from these positive samples, five samples were successfully sequenced after molecular studies. Phylogenetic analysis showed the clustering of four samples in T4 genotype group and only one sample as T15 genotype. Thermotolerance test revealed that all cloned samples were highly positive. Since the attractiveness of recreational places for people is increasing, the potential risk of this water should be monitored routinely in each region. More studies are needed to better evaluate the risk of this ubiquitous parasite for the human.
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Affiliation(s)
- Somayeh Maghsoodloorad
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Golestan University of Medical Science, Gorgān, Iran
| | | | - Amir Tavakoli Kareshk
- Infectious Disease Research Center, Birjand University of Medical Sciences, Birjand, Iran
| | - Mohammad Hossein Motazedian
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Mustapha Ahmed Yusuf
- Department of Medical Entomology and Vector Control, School of Public Health, International Campus, Tehran University of Medical Science, Tehran, Iran
| | - Rahmat Solgi
- Infectious Disease Research Center, Birjand University of Medical Sciences, Birjand, Iran
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23
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Scheid PL. Vermamoeba vermiformis - A Free-Living Amoeba with Public Health and Environmental Health Significance. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2019. [DOI: 10.2174/1874421401907010040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Many case reports emphasize the fact that Free-Living Amoebae (FLA) can relatively easily get in contact with humans or animals. The presence of several facultative parasitic FLA in habitats related to human activities supports their public health relevance. While some strains of Acanthamoeba,Naegleria fowleri,Balamuthia mandrillarisand several other FLA have been described as facultative human pathogens, it remains controversial whetherVermamoeba vermiformisstrains may have a pathogenic potential, or whether this FLA is just an incidental contaminant in a range of human cases. However, several cases support its role as a human parasite, either as the only etiological agent, or in combination with other pathogens. Additionally, a wide range of FLA is known as vectors of microorganisms (endocytobionts), hereby emphasizing their environmental significance. Among those FLA serving as hosts for and vectors of (pathogenic) endocytobionts, there are also descriptions ofV. vermiformisas a vehicle and a reservoir of those endocytobionts. The involvement in animal and human health, the role as vector of pathogenic microorganisms and the pathogenicity in cell cultures, led to the assumption thatV. vermiformisshould be considered relevant in terms of public health and environmental health.
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Montalbano Di Filippo M, Berrilli F, Di Cave D, Novelletto A. Novel data from Italian Vermamoeba vermiformis isolates from multiple sources add to genetic diversity within the genus. Parasitol Res 2019; 118:1751-1759. [DOI: 10.1007/s00436-019-06294-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2018] [Accepted: 03/14/2019] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
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25
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Delafont V, Rodier MH, Maisonneuve E, Cateau E. Vermamoeba vermiformis: a Free-Living Amoeba of Interest. MICROBIAL ECOLOGY 2018; 76:991-1001. [PMID: 29737382 DOI: 10.1007/s00248-018-1199-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2017] [Accepted: 04/30/2018] [Indexed: 05/22/2023]
Abstract
Free-living amoebae are protists that are widely distributed in the environment including water, soil, and air. Although the amoebae of the genus Acanthamoeba are still the most studied, other species, such as Vermamoeba vermiformis (formerly Hartmannella vermiformis), are the subject of increased interest. Found in natural or man-made aquatic environments, V. vermiformis can support the multiplication of other microorganisms and is able to harbor and potentially protect pathogenic bacteria or viruses. This feature is to be noted because of the presence of this thermotolerant amoeba in hospital water networks. As a consequence, this protist could be implicated in health concerns and be indirectly responsible for healthcare-related infections. This review highlights, among others, the consequences of V. vermiformis relationships with other microorganisms and shows that this free-living amoeba species is therefore of interest for public health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vincent Delafont
- Ecologie et Biologie des Interactions, UMR CNRS 7267, Equipe Microbiologie de l'Eau, Université de Poitiers, 1 rue Georges Bonnet, 86022, Poitiers Cedex, France
| | - Marie-Helene Rodier
- Ecologie et Biologie des Interactions, UMR CNRS 7267, Equipe Microbiologie de l'Eau, Université de Poitiers, 1 rue Georges Bonnet, 86022, Poitiers Cedex, France
- Laboratoire de parasitologie et mycologie, CHU La Milètrie, 86021, Poitiers Cedex, France
| | - Elodie Maisonneuve
- Ecologie et Biologie des Interactions, UMR CNRS 7267, Equipe Microbiologie de l'Eau, Université de Poitiers, 1 rue Georges Bonnet, 86022, Poitiers Cedex, France
| | - Estelle Cateau
- Ecologie et Biologie des Interactions, UMR CNRS 7267, Equipe Microbiologie de l'Eau, Université de Poitiers, 1 rue Georges Bonnet, 86022, Poitiers Cedex, France.
- Laboratoire de parasitologie et mycologie, CHU La Milètrie, 86021, Poitiers Cedex, France.
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Najafpoor AA, Zarrinfar H, Ghaderifar S, Alidadi H, Esmaily H, Hajialilo E, Hosseini Farash BR, Ahmadi E. Naegleria species population found in pond water of parks in Mashhad city, Can the physicochemical factors affect it? MethodsX 2018; 5:1427-1430. [PMID: 30456177 PMCID: PMC6232641 DOI: 10.1016/j.mex.2018.10.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2018] [Accepted: 10/06/2018] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Naegleria species are the ubiquitous free-living amoebas that are found worldwide in soil and water. Among Naegleria spp., N. fowleri can cause primary amebic meningoencephalitis (PAM). Ninety water samples were collected from the pond of parks. Also, the water quality parameters were measured at the sampling site (such as temperature, pH, total dissolved solids (TDS), electrical conductivity (EC) and Turbidity). After filtering, the samples were cultured on Bacto-agar enriched with Escherichia coli. A PCR assay was conducted on the culture-positive samples in the ITS1, 5.8SrDNA and ITS2 regions, and then the PCR products were sequenced. The pond water of parks was contaminated with some Naegleria spp. (except N. fowleri) and a Vahlkampfia avara. There was no significant relationship between water quality parameters and the presence of Naegleria (p > 0.05). Our protocol investigates to detect Naegleria spp. from ponds water of parks in Mashhad city and the relations between the water quality parameters and its presence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali Asghar Najafpoor
- Social Determinatns of Health Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Hossein Zarrinfar
- Allergy Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Shiva Ghaderifar
- Department of Environmental Health, Faculty of Health, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Hossein Alidadi
- Department of Environmental Health, Faculty of Health, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Habibolah Esmaily
- Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, Research Health Center, Faculty of Health, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Elham Hajialilo
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, Faculty of Medicine, Qazvin University of Medical Sciences, Qazvin, Iran
| | - Bibi Razieh Hosseini Farash
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Elahe Ahmadi
- Department of Environmental Health, Faculty of Health, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
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Ghaderifar S, Najafpoor AA, Zarrinfar H, Esmaily H, Hajialilo E. Isolation and identification of Acanthamoeba from pond water of parks in a tropical and subtropical region in the Middle East, and its relation with physicochemical parameters. BMC Microbiol 2018; 18:139. [PMID: 30340522 PMCID: PMC6195741 DOI: 10.1186/s12866-018-1301-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2017] [Accepted: 10/04/2018] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Free-living amoeba (FLA) are wide-spread protozoa that are found in different environmental sources including water, soil, dust, hospital units and ventilation areas. These amoebas can act as opportunistic or non-opportunistic pathogens. Among FLAs, some genera such as Acanthamoeba are important because of their potential pathogenic ability in humans. The purpose of this study is to identify of Acanthamoeba isolated from pond water of parks in a tropical and subtropical region in the Middle East, and its relation with physicochemical parameters.From August to December 2015, 90 samples were collected from pond water of parks of 13 regions of Mashhad City. Physicochemical parameters were measured in situ. After filtering, the samples were cultured on Bacto-agar enriched with Escherichia coli. PCR analysis was conducted on the culture-positive samples, and then the PCR products were sequenced. Statistical analysis was performed by SPSS software and Fisher’s Exact and Mann-Whitney test. Results Among the samples that were examined, 19 samples (21.1%) were positive for Acanthamoeba. The sequencing revealed that Acanthamoeba isolates belonged to T4 genotype of Acanthamoeba. There was no significant relationship between physicochemical parameters and the presence of Acanthamoeba. Conclusion The prevalence of Acanthamoeba in pond water of parks was relatively high, but there was no significant relationship between physicochemical parameters and the presence of Acanthamoeba.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shiva Ghaderifar
- Student Research Committee, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Ali Asghar Najafpoor
- Social Determinants of Health Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran. .,Global Center for Environmental Remediation, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, 2308, Iran.
| | - Hossein Zarrinfar
- Allergy Research Center Mashhad, University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Habibollah Esmaily
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Elham Hajialilo
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Qazvin University of Medical Sciences, Qazvin, Iran
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Xue J, Lamar FG, Zhang B, Lin S, Lamori JG, Sherchan SP. Quantitative assessment of Naegleria fowleri and fecal indicator bacteria in brackish water of Lake Pontchartrain, Louisiana. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2018; 622-623:8-16. [PMID: 29220778 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2017.11.308] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2017] [Revised: 11/15/2017] [Accepted: 11/27/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Brackish water samples from Lake Pontchartrain in Louisiana were assessed for the presence of pathogenic amoeba Naegleria fowleri, which causes primary amoebic meningoencephalitis (PAM). In our study, quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) methods were used to determine N. fowleri, E. coli, and enterococci in water collected from Lake Pontchartrain. N. fowleri target sequence was detected in 35.4% (56/158) of the water samples from ten sites around the lake. Statistically significant positive correlations between N. fowleri concentration and water temperature as well as E. coli (qPCR) were observed. Multiple linear regression (MLR) model shows seasonal factor (summer or winter) has significant effect on the concentration of N. fowleri, E. coli and enterococci (qPCR) concentration. Significant positive relationships between E. coli and enterococci was observed from both qPCR (r=0.25) and culture based method (r=0.54). Meanwhile, significant positive correlation between qPCR and culture based methods for enterococci concentration was observed (r=0.33). In our study, water temperature and E. coli concentration were indicative of N. fowleri concentrations in brackish water environment. Future research is needed to determine whether sediment is a source of N. fowleri found in the water column.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jia Xue
- Department of Global Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA 70112, USA
| | - Frederica G Lamar
- Department of Global Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA 70112, USA
| | - Bowen Zhang
- International Center for Climate and Global Change Research, Auburn University, Auburn, AL 36849, USA
| | - Siyu Lin
- Department of Global Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA 70112, USA
| | - Jennifer G Lamori
- Department of Global Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA 70112, USA
| | - Samendra P Sherchan
- Department of Global Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA 70112, USA.
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Haniloo A, Pezeshki A, Mahmmodzadeh A, Kadkhodamohammadi E. Genotyping of Acanthamoeba spp. from water sources from Northwestern Iran. Acta Parasitol 2017; 62:790-795. [PMID: 29035854 DOI: 10.1515/ap-2017-0095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2017] [Accepted: 08/08/2017] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Acanthamoeba spp. are free-living amoebae which are ubiquitously distributed worldwide and can be found in the wide range of environments, particularly in various types of water sources, where they able to cause important health problems. In the present study, cultures containing Acanthamoeba from water samples were obtained from our earlier survey. For an analysis of the genetic pattern of Acanthamoeba isolates, DNA sequencing of nuclear small-subunit rRNA gene (18S rRNA or Rns) was applied. A phylogenetic analyses of the isolates displayed that all of them were belonged to the potentially pathogenic T4 genotype. This investigation provides further evidence that the T4 genotype is the most prevalent in water samples and demonstrates that there is a need for taking more consideration to water sources in order to prevent complications associated with pathogenic Acanthamoeba spp.
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Milanez GD, Masangkay FR, Thomas RC, Ordona MOGO, Bernales GQ, Corpuz VCM, Fortes HSV, Garcia CMS, Nicolas LC, Nissapatorn V. Molecular identification of Vermamoeba vermiformis from freshwater fish in lake Taal, Philippines. Exp Parasitol 2017; 183:201-206. [DOI: 10.1016/j.exppara.2017.09.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2017] [Revised: 09/06/2017] [Accepted: 09/11/2017] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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Alipour N, Gaeini N. Helicobacter is preserved in yeast vacuoles! Does Koch's postulates confirm it? World J Gastroenterol 2017; 23:2266-2268. [PMID: 28405156 PMCID: PMC5374140 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v23.i12.2266] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2016] [Revised: 01/10/2017] [Accepted: 02/17/2017] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The manuscript titled “Vacuoles of Candida yeast behave as a specialized niche for Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori)” not only has not been prepared in a scientific manner but the methodology used was not adequate, and therefore the conclusion reached was not correct. First of all, “yeast” is a broad terminology covering a great number of genera and species of unicellular micro-organisms. The authors should have defined the organism with its binary scientific name. This measure would allow experiment reproduction by the scientific community. Moreover, the criteria established by Robert Koch to identify a specific microorganism or pathogen was not adopted in the methodology used. Regarding the methodology applied, use of the chicken egg-yolk (IgY) antibody and PCR of the apparently tainted yeast population to prove H. pylori existence in the yeast vacuoles might be main factors for their wrong conclusions. Bacterial tropism toward yeast extract is a known phenomenon, and yeast extract is one of the main ingredients in culture media. Their internalization through phagocytosis or similar pathways does not seem possible or practical because of the thick and cellulosic yeast wall. While the small size of yeast cells does not support their ability in harboring several H. pylori, other observations such as inefficiency of anti-fungal therapy as anti-Helicobacter therapy strongly reject the conclusion reached by the above-mentioned article.
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Update on Acanthamoeba jacobsi genotype T15, including full-length 18S rDNA molecular phylogeny. Parasitol Res 2017; 116:1273-1284. [DOI: 10.1007/s00436-017-5406-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2017] [Accepted: 02/03/2017] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
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Plutzer J, Karanis P. Neglected waterborne parasitic protozoa and their detection in water. WATER RESEARCH 2016; 101:318-332. [PMID: 27281375 DOI: 10.1016/j.watres.2016.05.085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2015] [Revised: 05/25/2016] [Accepted: 05/26/2016] [Indexed: 05/08/2023]
Abstract
Outbreak incidents raise the question of whether the less frequent aetiological agents of outbreaks are really less frequent in water. Alternatively, waterborne transmission could be relevant, but the lack of attention and rapid, sensitive methods to recover and detect the exogenous stages in water may keep them under-recognized. High quality information on the prevalence and detection of less frequent waterborne protozoa, such as Cyclospora cayetanensis, Toxoplasma gondii, Isospora belli, Balantidium coli, Blastocystis hominis, Entamoeba histolytica and other free-living amoebae (FLA), are not available. This present paper discusses the detection tools applied for the water surveillance of the neglected waterborne protozoa mentioned above and provides future perspectives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Judit Plutzer
- Qinghai Academy of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Qinghai University, Xining, China; National Public Health Center, National Directorate of Environmental Health, Environmental Health Testing Laboratory, Budapest, Hungary.
| | - Panagiotis Karanis
- Qinghai Academy of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Qinghai University, Xining, China
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Blandenier Q, Seppey CVW, Singer D, Vlimant M, Simon A, Duckert C, Lara E. Mycamoeba gemmipara nov. gen., nov. sp., the First Cultured Member of the Environmental Dermamoebidae Clade LKM74 and its Unusual Life Cycle. J Eukaryot Microbiol 2016; 64:257-265. [PMID: 27543384 DOI: 10.1111/jeu.12357] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2016] [Revised: 07/04/2016] [Accepted: 08/08/2016] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Since the first environmental DNA surveys, entire groups of sequences called "environmental clades" did not have any cultured representative. LKM74 is an amoebozoan clade affiliated to Dermamoebidae, whose presence is pervasively reported in soil and freshwater. We obtained an isolate from soil that we assigned to LKM74 by molecular phylogeny, close related to freshwater clones. We described Mycamoeba gemmipara based on observations made with light- and transmission electron microscopy. It is an extremely small amoeba with typical lingulate shape. Unlike other Dermamoebidae, it lacked ornamentation on its cell membrane, and condensed chromatin formed characteristic patterns in the nucleus. M. gemmipara displayed a unique life cycle: trophozoites formed walled coccoid stages which grew through successive buddings and developed into branched structures holding cysts. These structures, measuring hundreds of micrometres, are built as the exclusive product of osmotrophic feeding. To demonstrate that M. gemmipara is a genuine soil inhabitant, we screened its presence in an environmental soil DNA diversity survey performed on an experimental setup where pig cadavers were left to decompose in soils to follow changes in eukaryotic communities. Mycamoeba gemmipara was present in all samples, although related reads were uncommon underneath the cadaver.
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Affiliation(s)
- Quentin Blandenier
- Laboratory of Soil Biodiversity, Institute of Biology, University of Neuchâtel, Emile Argand 11, Neuchâtel, 2000, Switzerland
| | - Christophe V W Seppey
- Laboratory of Soil Biodiversity, Institute of Biology, University of Neuchâtel, Emile Argand 11, Neuchâtel, 2000, Switzerland
| | - David Singer
- Laboratory of Soil Biodiversity, Institute of Biology, University of Neuchâtel, Emile Argand 11, Neuchâtel, 2000, Switzerland
| | - Michèle Vlimant
- Laboratory of Ecology and Evolution of Parasites, Institute of Biology, University of Neuchâtel, Emile Argand 11, Neuchâtel, 2000, Switzerland
| | - Anaële Simon
- Laboratory of Microbiology, Institute of Biology, University of Neuchâtel, Emile Argand 11, Neuchâtel, 2000, Switzerland
| | - Clément Duckert
- Laboratory of Soil Biodiversity, Institute of Biology, University of Neuchâtel, Emile Argand 11, Neuchâtel, 2000, Switzerland
| | - Enrique Lara
- Laboratory of Soil Biodiversity, Institute of Biology, University of Neuchâtel, Emile Argand 11, Neuchâtel, 2000, Switzerland
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Vermamoeba vermiformis-Aspergillus fumigatus relationships and comparison with other phagocytic cells. Parasitol Res 2016; 115:4097-4105. [PMID: 27381330 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-016-5182-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2016] [Accepted: 06/23/2016] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Free living amoebae (FLA) are protists ubiquitously present in the environment. Aspergillus fumigatus is a mould responsible for severe deep-seated infections, and that can be recovered in the same habitats as the FLA. By conducting coculture experiments and fungal incubation with amoebal supernatants, we report herein that Vermamoeba vermiformis, a FLA present in hospital water systems, promotes filamentation and growth of A. fumigatus. This finding is of particular importance to institutions whose water systems might harbor FLA and could potentially be used by immunocompromised patients. Also, the relationships between V. vermiformis and A. fumigatus were compared to those between this fungus and two other phagocytic cells: Acanthamoeba castellanii, another FLA, and macrophage-like THP-1 cells. After 4 h of coincubation, the percentages of the three phagocytic cell types with adhered conidia were similar, even though the types of receptors between FLA and macrophagic cell seemed different. However, the percentage of THP-1 with internalized conidia was considerably lower (40 %) in comparison with the two other cell types (100 %). Thus, this study revealed that interactions between A. fumigatus and these three phagocytic cell types show similarities, even though it is premature to extrapolate these results to interpret relationships between A. fumigatus and macrophages.
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Scientific Symposium “Small Solution for Big Water-Related Problems: Innovative Microarrays and Small Sensors to Cope with Water Quality and Food Security”. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2015. [PMCID: PMC4690928 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph121214992] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
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