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Henedi A, Chan AHE, Youssef W, Taha HA, Thaenkham U, Ashour AA. Phylogenetic evidence of a possible Trichuris globulosa species complex in Arabian camels from Kuwait. Parasitology 2024:1-28. [PMID: 38523531 DOI: 10.1017/s0031182024000374] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/26/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Adawia Henedi
- Parasitology Lab, Veterinary Laboratories, Public Authority of Agriculture Affairs and Fish Resources, Rabia, Kuwait
| | - Abigail Hui En Chan
- Department of Helminthology, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Wessam Youssef
- Department of Biotechnology, Animal Health Research Institute, Dokki, Egypt
- Molecular Biology Lab, Veterinary Laboratories, PAAFR, Rabia, Kuwait
| | - Hoda A Taha
- Zoology department, Faculty of Science, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Urusa Thaenkham
- Department of Helminthology, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Ameen A Ashour
- Zoology department, Faculty of Science, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt
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Kaenkaew C, Chan AHE, Saralamba N, Ruangsittichai J, Chaisiri K, Charoennitiwat V, Thaenkham U. Molecular insights versus morphological traits: rethinking identification of the closely related Angiostrongylus cantonensis and Angiostrongylus malaysiensis. Parasit Vectors 2024; 17:56. [PMID: 38326886 PMCID: PMC10851580 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-024-06140-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2023] [Accepted: 01/17/2024] [Indexed: 02/09/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The closely related Angiostrongylus cantonensis and Angiostrongylus malaysiensis have been reported to coexist in Thailand and share similar hosts and life cycles. Recently, in an angiostrongyliasis outbreak in Thailand, both A. cantonensis and A. malaysiensis were found in the cerebrospinal fluid of affected patients. Morphological similarities, overlapping distribution, shared hosts and habitats, and the close genetics of the two Angiostrongylus species can complicate accurate species identification. Addressing these challenges, this study aims to evaluate whether a correlation between the morphological and genetic identities of A. cantonensis and A. malaysiensis can improve species identification accuracy. METHODS Angiostrongylus spp. specimens from five zoogeographical regions in Thailand were subjected to morphological and molecular identification using the mitochondrial cytochrome b gene and the nuclear internal transcribed spacer 2 region (ITS2). The morphological characters for males and females were then validated using the species identity obtained from the nuclear ITS2 region. RESULTS The results revealed that morphological misidentifications between these two closely related species are common due to overlapping morphological characters. Although certain male traits such as body length and width aided species differentiation, female traits were found to be less reliable. Furthermore, hybrid forms (8.2%) were revealed through the ITS2 results, which can further complicate morphological identification. Mito-nuclear discordance was also present in 1.9% of the Angiostrongylus specimens from Thailand, suggesting a complex historical interbreeding between the species. CONCLUSIONS Based on our findings, we suggest that nuclear ITS2 is a reliable marker for species identification of A. cantonensis and A. malaysiensis, especially in regions where both species coexist. Additionally, the scope and consequences of hybridization between the two closely related Angiostrongylus species should be further investigated in Thailand.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chanisara Kaenkaew
- Department of Helminthology, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Abigail Hui En Chan
- Department of Helminthology, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Naowarat Saralamba
- Department of Molecular Tropical Medicine and Molecular Genetics, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Jiraporn Ruangsittichai
- Department of Medical Entomology, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Kittipong Chaisiri
- Department of Helminthology, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | | | - Urusa Thaenkham
- Department of Helminthology, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand.
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Chan AHE, Thaenkham U, Poodeepiyasawat A, Boonserm S, Namjad P, Laoungbua P, Tawan T, Bun NP, Ratnarathorn N, Charoennitiwat V. Discovery of Encyclometra bungara (Digenea: Encyclometridae) in a new host ( Enhydris enhydris) from Thailand and Cambodia through morphological and molecular identification. Parasitology 2024; 151:77-83. [PMID: 38229575 PMCID: PMC10941033 DOI: 10.1017/s0031182023001166] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2023] [Revised: 11/18/2023] [Accepted: 11/20/2023] [Indexed: 01/18/2024]
Abstract
The genus Encyclometra is one of the two genera in family Encyclometridae, known for parasitising the oesophagus, stomach and intestine of snakes. Among Encyclometra, the species present are: Encyclometra colubrimurorum, Encyclometra japonica, Encyclometra asymmetrica and Encyclometra bungara. Species discrimination within Encyclometra has predominantly relied on morphological differences, such as the length of the caeca and the position of the testes. Morphological overlaps exist among these species making species discrimination challenging. Additionally, the use of molecular information has been limited for Encyclometra. To determine the Encyclometra species infecting Enhydris enhydris from Thailand and Cambodia, morphological and molecular identification was conducted. Morphological characters and measurements were obtained from 30 Encyclometra adults, and they were compared with previous studies of other Encyclometra species. Novel sequences of E. bungara were generated using the nuclear 18S and 28S ribosomal RNA genes, and the mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit 1 gene. Our results revealed that the specimens could be morphologically identified as E. bungara, with support from molecular information obtained from the phylogenies of the 3 genetic markers employed. Molecular analysis showed that the Encyclometra specimens were distinct from E. colubrimurorum and E. japonica. Through morphological and molecular identification of the Encyclometra specimens found in E. enhydris from Thailand and Cambodia, we describe and provide a record of E. bungara in a new host and new locality. Additionally, novel molecular sequences were generated, revealing the phylogenetic position of E. bungara within the superfamily Gorgoderoidea.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abigail Hui En Chan
- Department of Helminthology, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Urusa Thaenkham
- Department of Helminthology, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Akkarin Poodeepiyasawat
- Department of Helminthology, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Somusa Boonserm
- Department of Helminthology, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Pakteema Namjad
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Panithi Laoungbua
- Snake Farm, Queen Saovabha Memorial Institute, The Thai Red Cross Society, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Tanapong Tawan
- Snake Farm, Queen Saovabha Memorial Institute, The Thai Red Cross Society, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Ngor Peng Bun
- Faculty of Fisheries, Royal University of Agriculture, Phnom Penh, Cambodia
| | - Napat Ratnarathorn
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
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Chan AHE, Chaisiri K, Dusitsittipon S, Jakkul W, Charoennitiwat V, Komalamisra C, Thaenkham U. Corrigendum to 'Mitochondrial ribosomal genes as novel genetic markers for discrimination of closely related species in the Angiostrongylus cantonensis lineage' [Acta Tropica, Volume 211, November 2020, 105645]. Acta Trop 2023; 246:106997. [PMID: 37567842 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2023.106997] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/13/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Abigail Hui En Chan
- Department of Helminthology, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand.
| | - Kittipong Chaisiri
- Department of Helminthology, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Sirilak Dusitsittipon
- Department of Parasitology and Entomology, Faculty of Public Health, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Wallop Jakkul
- Department of Helminthology, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | | | - Chalit Komalamisra
- Mahidol Bangkok School of Tropical Medicine (Mahidol-BSTM), Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Thailand
| | - Urusa Thaenkham
- Department of Helminthology, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand.
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Chan AHE, Kusolsuk T, Watthanakulpanich D, Pakdee W, Doanh PN, Yasin AM, Dekumyoy P, Thaenkham U. Prevalence of Strongyloides in Southeast Asia: a systematic review and meta-analysis with implications for public health and sustainable control strategies. Infect Dis Poverty 2023; 12:83. [PMID: 37705080 PMCID: PMC10498648 DOI: 10.1186/s40249-023-01138-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2023] [Accepted: 09/03/2023] [Indexed: 09/15/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Strongyloidiasis, caused by the nematodes Strongyloides stercoralis and Strongyloides fuelleborni, is estimated to affect over 600 million individuals worldwide. The disease is endemic in Southeast Asia, where a warm-humid climate and socio-economic conditions maintain the parasite's life cycle and transmission. However, the current diagnostic methods may not be sufficiently sensitive, suggesting that the true prevalence of strongyloidiasis could be seriously underestimated in this. This study aims to determine the prevalence of strongyloidiasis in Southeast Asia through a systematic review and meta-analysis and to discuss the implications of the estimated prevalence on diagnostic approaches and control strategies. METHODS Following PRISMA guidelines, we conducted a systematic literature search in PubMed and Google Scholar databases to identify studies reporting Strongyloides prevalence data in the 11 Southeast Asian countries up to December 2022. A random effects model was employed to estimate the pooled prevalence of S. stercoralis at both regional and country levels. RESULTS Out of 3722 articles identified, 224 met our inclusion criteria. For S. stercoralis specifically, we found 187 articles, of which 52.4% were from Thailand. All Southeast Asian countries, except Brunei, had at least one study on Strongyloides prevalence. The estimated pooled prevalence of S. stercoralis regionally was 12.7% (95% CI 10.70-14.80%), ranging from 0.4 to 24.9% at the country level. Cambodia had the highest pooled prevalence (24.9%, 95% CI 15.65-35.38%), followed by Lao PDR (16.5%, 95% CI 9.50-24.95%). Moreover, we obtained a pooled prevalence of 10% (95% CI 7.06-13.52%) in a group comprising immigrants, workers, and veterans from Southeast Asian countries. S. stercoralis infects various host types, including nonhuman primates, domestic dogs and cats, rodents, and transport carriers such as cockroaches and vegetables. CONCLUSIONS A high prevalence of strongyloidiasis in Southeast Asia was revealed, highlighting the importance of the region's ongoing research, surveillance, and control efforts. Factors contributing to the strongyloidiasis transmission include the role of animal hosts, the impact of global connectivity, and the significance of the co-endemicity of other Strongyloides species. Based on these findings, a multi-pronged One-Health approach is essential for sustainable intervention and control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abigail Hui En Chan
- Department of Helminthology, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Teera Kusolsuk
- Department of Helminthology, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Dorn Watthanakulpanich
- Department of Helminthology, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Wallop Pakdee
- Department of Helminthology, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Pham Ngoc Doanh
- Institute of Ecology and Biological Resources, Graduate University of Science and Technology, Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Azlin Mohd Yasin
- Department of Parasitology and Medical Entomology, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Paron Dekumyoy
- Department of Helminthology, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Urusa Thaenkham
- Department of Helminthology, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand.
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Chan AHE, Thaenkham U. From past to present: opportunities and trends in the molecular detection and diagnosis of Strongyloides stercoralis. Parasit Vectors 2023; 16:123. [PMID: 37041645 PMCID: PMC10088203 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-023-05763-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2022] [Accepted: 03/30/2023] [Indexed: 04/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Strongyloides stercoralis is a soil-transmitted helminth that is mainly found in the tropical and subtropical regions and affects approximately 600 million people globally. The medical importance of strongyloidiasis lies in its capacity to remain asymptomatic and chronically unnoticed until the host is immunocompromised. Additionally, in severe strongyloidiasis, hyperinfection syndrome and larva dissemination to various organs can occur. Parasitological techniques such as Baermann-Moraes and agar plate culture to detect larvae in stool samples are the current gold standard. However, the sensitivity might be inadequate, especially with reduced worm burden. Complementing parasitological techniques, immunological techniques including immunoblot and immunosorbent assays are employed, with higher sensitivity. However, cross-reactivity to other parasites may occur, hampering the assay's specificity. Recently, advances in molecular techniques such as polymerase chain reaction and next-generation sequencing technology have provided the opportunity to detect parasite DNA in stool, blood, and environmental samples. Molecular techniques, known for their high sensitivity and specificity, have the potential to circumvent some of the challenges associated with chronicity and intermittent larval output for increased detection. Here, as S. stercoralis was recently included by the World Health Organization as another soil-transmitted helminth targeted for control from 2021 to 2030, we aimed to present a review of the current molecular techniques for detecting and diagnosing S. stercoralis in a bid to consolidate the molecular studies that have been performed. Upcoming molecular trends, especially next-generation sequencing technologies, are also discussed to increase the awareness of its potential for diagnosis and detection. Improved and novel detection methods can aid in making accurate and informed choices, especially in this era where infectious and non-infectious diseases are increasingly commonplace.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Urusa Thaenkham
- Department of Helminthology, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
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Chan AHE, Saralamba N, Saralamba S, Ruangsittichai J, Chaisiri K, Limpanont Y, Charoennitiwat V, Thaenkham U. Sensitive and accurate DNA metabarcoding of parasitic helminth mock communities using the mitochondrial rRNA genes. Sci Rep 2022; 12:9947. [PMID: 35705676 PMCID: PMC9200835 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-14176-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2022] [Accepted: 06/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Next-generation sequencing technologies have accelerated the pace of helminth DNA metabarcoding research, enabling species detection in bulk community samples. However, finding suitable genetic markers with robust species-level resolution and primers targeting a broad species range among parasitic helminths are some of the challenges faced. This study aimed to demonstrate the potential use of the mitochondrial 12S and 16S rRNA genes for parasitic helminth (nematodes, trematodes, cestodes) DNA metabarcoding. To demonstrate the robustness of the 12S and 16S rRNA genes for DNA metabarcoding, we determined the proportion of species successfully recovered using mock helminth communities without environment matrix and mock helminth communities artificially spiked with environmental matrices. The environmental matrices are human fecal material, garden soil, tissue, and pond water. Our results revealed the robustness of the mitochondrial rRNA genes, through the high sensitivity of the 12S rRNA gene, and the effectiveness of the 12S and 16S primers targeting platyhelminths. With the mitochondrial rRNA genes, a broad range of parasitc helminths were successfully detected to the species level. The potential of the mitochondrial rRNA genes for helminth DNA metabarcoding was demonstrated, providing a valuable gateway for future helminth DNA metabarcoding applications like helminth detection and biodiversity studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abigail Hui En Chan
- Department of Helminthology, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Naowarat Saralamba
- Department of Molecular Tropical Medicine and Genetics, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Sompob Saralamba
- Mathematical and Economic Modelling (MAEMOD), Mahidol Oxford Tropical Medicine Research Unit, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Jiraporn Ruangsittichai
- Department of Medical Entomology, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Kittipong Chaisiri
- Department of Helminthology, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Yanin Limpanont
- Department of Social and Environmental Medicine, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | | | - Urusa Thaenkham
- Department of Helminthology, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand.
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Chan AHE, Saralamba N, Saralamba S, Ruangsittichai J, Thaenkham U. The potential use of mitochondrial ribosomal genes (12S and 16S) in DNA barcoding and phylogenetic analysis of trematodes. BMC Genomics 2022; 23:104. [PMID: 35130837 PMCID: PMC8822746 DOI: 10.1186/s12864-022-08302-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2021] [Accepted: 01/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Genetic markers like the nuclear ribosomal RNA (rRNA) genes, internal transcribed spacer regions, mitochondrial protein-coding genes, and genomes have been utilized for molecular identification of parasitic trematodes. However, challenges such as the design of broadly applicable primers for the vast number of species within Digenea and the genetic markers’ ability to provide sufficient species-level resolution limited their utility. This study presented novel and broadly applicable primers using the mitochondrial 12S and 16S rRNA genes for Digenea and aimed to show their suitability as alternative genetic markers for molecular identification of orders Plagiorchiida, Echinostomida, and Strigeida. Results Our results revealed that the mitochondrial 12S and 16S rRNA genes are suitable for trematode molecular identification, with sufficient resolution to discriminate closely related species and achieve accurate species identification through phylogenetic placements. Moreover, the robustness of our newly designed primers to amplify medically important parasitic trematodes encompassing three orders was demonstrated through successful amplification. The convenience and applicability of the newly designed primers and adequate genetic variation of the mitochondrial rRNA genes can be useful as complementary markers for trematode molecular-based studies. Conclusions We demonstrated that the mitochondrial rRNA genes could be alternative genetic markers robust for trematode molecular identification and potentially helpful for DNA barcoding where our primers can be widely applied across the major Digenea orders. Furthermore, the potential of the mitochondrial rRNA genes for molecular systematics can be explored, enhancing their appeal for trematode molecular-based studies. The novelty of utilizing the mitochondrial rRNA genes and the designed primers in this study can potentially open avenues for species identification, discovery, and systematics in the future. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12864-022-08302-4.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abigail Hui En Chan
- Department of Helminthology, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Naowarat Saralamba
- Department of Molecular Tropical Medicine and Genetics, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Sompob Saralamba
- Mathematical and Economic Modelling (MAEMOD), Mahidol Oxford Tropical Medicine Research Unit, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Jiraporn Ruangsittichai
- Department of Medical Entomology, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Urusa Thaenkham
- Department of Helminthology, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand.
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Watthanakulpanich D, Jakkul W, Chanapromma C, Ketboonlue T, Dekumyoy P, Lv Z, Chan AHE, Thaenkham U, Chaisiri K. Co-occurrence of Angiostrongylus malaysiensis and Angiostrongylus cantonensis DNA in cerebrospinal fluid: Evidence from human eosinophilic meningitis after ingestion of raw snail dish in Thailand. Food Waterborne Parasitol 2021; 24:e00128. [PMID: 34458598 PMCID: PMC8379478 DOI: 10.1016/j.fawpar.2021.e00128] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2021] [Revised: 07/23/2021] [Accepted: 07/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Angiostrongylus cantonensis, the main causative agent of human neuroangiostrongyliasis, is a food-borne parasitic zoonosis, particularly in Southeast Asia and Mainland China. Angiostrongylus malaysiensis, a cryptic species, has not been unequivocally identified as a causative agent for human angiostrongyliasis. Here, we investigated a local incidence of human angiostrongyliasis in Kalasin Province, northeastern part of Thailand. Field and laboratory investigations, clinical symptoms, and treatment of the disease are also discussed. Five sera and three cerebrospinal fluid samples were taken from each patient who displayed clinical symptoms of mild or severe headache without neck stiffness after ingesting a local dish containing Pila virescens. With molecular evidence using PCR and DNA sequencing approaches, we confirmed the presence of A. malaysiensis and A. cantonensis DNA in the patient samples. In addition, P. virescens and Pomacea canaliculata collected in the vicinity were also examined for the existence of angistrongylid larvae. The rate of infection in the snail population was 33.3% (18 infection out of 54 examined), with A. cantonensis as the predominant species. Notably, two snails were found to be co-infected with both A. malaysiensis and A. cantonensis. This discovery comes after several years of suspicion that it could be a zoonotic pathogen. Therefore, our findings are important for public health and clinical diagnosis since clinicians are not aware of the zoonotic potential of A. malaysiensis in humans. A. malaysiensis as a potential zoonotic pathogen of human angiostrongyliasis. A. cantonensis and A. malaysiensis coexist in snails where human cases detected. Discussions on related clinical manifestations and patient profiles of Angiostrongylus spp. co-infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dorn Watthanakulpanich
- Department of Helminthology, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok 10400, Thailand
| | - Wallop Jakkul
- Department of Helminthology, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok 10400, Thailand
| | - Chaichana Chanapromma
- Crown Prince Kuchinarai Hospital, Kuchinarai District, Kalasin Province 46110, Thailand
| | - Thawatchai Ketboonlue
- Department of Helminthology, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok 10400, Thailand
| | - Paron Dekumyoy
- Department of Helminthology, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok 10400, Thailand
| | - Zhiyue Lv
- Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510080, PR China
| | - Abigail Hui En Chan
- Department of Helminthology, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok 10400, Thailand
| | - Urusa Thaenkham
- Department of Helminthology, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok 10400, Thailand
| | - Kittipong Chaisiri
- Department of Helminthology, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok 10400, Thailand
- Corresponding author at: Department of Helminthology, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, 420/6 Ratchavithi Rd., Ratchathewi, Bangkok 10400, Thailand.
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Chan AHE, Chaisiri K, Dusitsittipon S, Jakkul W, Charoennitiwat V, Komalamisra C, Thaenkham U. Mitochondrial ribosomal genes as novel genetic markers for discrimination of closely related species in the Angiostrongylus cantonensis lineage. Acta Trop 2020; 211:105645. [PMID: 32702297 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2020.105645] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2020] [Revised: 07/17/2020] [Accepted: 07/19/2020] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
The Angiostrongylus cantonensis lineage (Nematoda: Metastrongyloidea) consists of the closely related species A. cantonensis, Angiostrongylus malaysiensis, and Angiostrongylus mackerrasae. Various genetic markers have been used for species discrimination in molecular phylogenetic studies of this lineage. However, despite showing potential in other organisms, mitochondrial 12S and 16S ribosomal RNA (rRNA) genes have not been used for Angiostrongylus species discrimination. Therefore, this study assessed these genes' suitability for inter- and intraspecies discrimination in the A. cantonensis lineage. The ultimate aim was to provide a novel genetic marker to support existing phylogenies. Sixty adult Angiostrongylus spp. worms from four geographic locations in Thailand were identified morphologically before molecular identification with 12S and 16S rRNA genes. Neighbor-joining and maximum likelihood algorithms were used for phylogenetic analyzes, and sequence variation was calculated to determine whether the genes could be used to discriminate among species. Furthermore, sequence variation was compared among previously used genetic markers to evaluate the robustness of the 12S and 16S rRNA genes as markers. Using both markers, the A. cantonensis lineage formed a monophyletic clade with a clear separation between A. cantonensis, A. malaysiensis, and A. mackerrasae. From our representative A. cantonensis and A. malaysiensis specimens, the genetic distance between the two clades was 6.8% -7.9% and 7.9% -10.0% for 12S and 16S rRNA genes, respectively, which is sufficient interspecific genetic variation for species discrimination. Higher levels of genetic variation were observed for the 16S rRNA gene, with 12 haplotypes and an intraspecific variation ≤2.2%. Thus, as a genetic marker, the 16S rRNA gene is comparable to mitochondrial protein-coding genes, which are commonly used in intra-level Angiostrongylus spp. studies. In conclusion, mitochondrial 12S and 16S rRNA genes can discriminate among closely related species in the A. cantonensis lineage, and they represent novel genetic markers for supporting existing phylogenies and verifying the phylogenetic position of A. mackerrasae.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abigail Hui En Chan
- Department of Helminthology, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand.
| | - Kittipong Chaisiri
- Department of Helminthology, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand.
| | - Sirilak Dusitsittipon
- Department of Parasitology and Entomology, Faculty of Public Health, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand.
| | - Wallop Jakkul
- Department of Helminthology, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | | | - Chalit Komalamisra
- Mahidol Bangkok School of Tropical Medicine (Mahidol-BSTM), Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Thailand.
| | - Urusa Thaenkham
- Department of Helminthology, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand.
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Chan AHE, Chaisiri K, Morand S, Saralamba N, Thaenkham U. Evaluation and utility of mitochondrial ribosomal genes for molecular systematics of parasitic nematodes. Parasit Vectors 2020; 13:364. [PMID: 32690073 PMCID: PMC7372814 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-020-04242-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2020] [Accepted: 07/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Molecular advances have accelerated our understanding of nematode systematics and taxonomy. However, comparative analyzes between various genetic markers have led to discrepancies in nematode phylogenies. This study aimed to evaluate the suitability of using mitochondrial 12S and 16S ribosomal RNA genes for nematode molecular systematics. METHODS To study the suitability of mitochondrial 12S and 16S ribosomal RNA genes as genetic markers for nematode molecular systematics, we compared them with the other commonly used genetic markers, nuclear internal transcribed spacer 1 and 2 regions, nuclear 18S and 28S ribosomal RNA genes, and mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit 1 gene. After that, phylum-wide primers for mitochondrial 12S and 16S ribosomal RNA genes were designed, and parasitic nematodes of humans and animals from 75 taxa with 21 representative species were inferred through phylogenetic analyzes. Phylogenetic analyzes were carried out using maximum likelihood and Bayesian inference algorithms. RESULTS The phylogenetic relationships of nematodes based on the mitochondrial 12S rRNA gene supported the monophyly of nematodes in clades I, IV, and V, reinforcing the potential of this gene as a genetic marker for nematode systematics. In contrast, the mitochondrial 16S rRNA gene only supported the monophyly of clades I and V, providing evidence that the 12S rRNA gene is more suitable for nematode molecular systematics. In this study, subclades of clade III containing various nematode families were not monophyletic when the 16S or 12S rRNA gene was used as the genetic marker. This is similar to the phylogenetic relationship revealed by previous studies using whole mitochondrial genomes as genetic markers. CONCLUSIONS This study supports the use of the 12S rRNA gene as a genetic marker for studying the molecular systematics of nematodes to understand intra-phyla relationships. Phylum-wide primers for nematodes using mitochondrial ribosomal genes were prepared, which may enhance future studies. Furthermore, sufficient genetic variation in the mitochondrial 12S and 16S rRNA genes between species also allowed for accurate taxonomy to species level, revealing the potential of these two genes as genetic markers for DNA barcoding.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abigail Hui En Chan
- Department of Helminthology, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Kittipong Chaisiri
- Department of Helminthology, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Serge Morand
- Department of Helminthology, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
- CNRS ISEM-CIRAD ASTRE, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kasetsart University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Naowarat Saralamba
- Department of Molecular Tropical Medicine and Genetics, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Urusa Thaenkham
- Department of Helminthology, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
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