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Subspecific Nomenclature of Giardia duodenalis in the Light of a Compared Population Genomics of Pathogens. Pathogens 2023; 12:pathogens12020249. [PMID: 36839521 PMCID: PMC9960469 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens12020249] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2022] [Revised: 01/30/2023] [Accepted: 01/30/2023] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Genetic and genomic data have long recognized that the species Giardia duodenalis is subdivided into at least eight genetic clusters that have been named "assemblages" by specialists in the field. Some of these assemblages have been given the status of species, with Linnean binames. In the framework of the predominant clonal evolution model (PCE), we have shown that, from an evolutionary point of view, G. duodenalis assemblages are equatable to "near-clades", that is to say: clades whose discreteness is somewhat clouded by occasional genetic exchange, but remain discrete and stable in space and time. The implications of this evolutionary status for the species described within G. duodenalis are discussed in light of the most recent genetic and genomic studies. The pattern of this species' subspecific genetic variability and genetic clustering appears to be very similar to the ones of various parasitic, fungal and bacteria species. This underlines the relevance of a compared population genomics of pathogenic species allowed by the broad framework of the PCE model.
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2
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da Silva VS, Machado CR. Sex in protists: A new perspective on the reproduction mechanisms of trypanosomatids. Genet Mol Biol 2022; 45:e20220065. [PMID: 36218381 PMCID: PMC9552303 DOI: 10.1590/1678-4685-gmb-2022-0065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2022] [Accepted: 08/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
The Protist kingdom individuals are the most ancestral representatives of
eukaryotes. They have inhabited Earth since ancient times and are currently
found in the most diverse environments presenting a great heterogeneity of life
forms. The unicellular and multicellular algae, photosynthetic and heterotrophic
organisms, as well as free-living and pathogenic protozoa represents the protist
group. The evolution of sex is directly associated with the origin of eukaryotes
being protists the earliest protagonists of sexual reproduction on earth. In
eukaryotes, the recombination through genetic exchange is a ubiquitous mechanism
that can be stimulated by DNA damage. Scientific evidences support the
hypothesis that reactive oxygen species (ROS) induced DNA damage can promote
sexual recombination in eukaryotes which might have been a decisive factor for
the origin of sex. The fact that some recombination enzymes also participate in
meiotic sex in modern eukaryotes reinforces the idea that sexual reproduction
emerged as consequence of specific mechanisms to cope with mutations and
alterations in genetic material. In this review we will discuss about origin of
sex and different strategies of evolve sexual reproduction in some protists such
that cause human diseases like malaria, toxoplasmosis, sleeping sickness, Chagas
disease, and leishmaniasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Verônica Santana da Silva
- Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Departamento de Genética,
Ecologia e Evolução, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Carlos Renato Machado
- Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Departamento de Bioquímica e
Imunologia, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
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Horáčková V, Voleman L, Hagen KD, Petrů M, Vinopalová M, Weisz F, Janowicz N, Marková L, Motyčková A, Najdrová V, Tůmová P, Dawson SC, Doležal P. Efficient CRISPR/Cas9-mediated gene disruption in the tetraploid protist Giardia intestinalis. Open Biol 2022; 12:210361. [PMID: 35472287 PMCID: PMC9042576 DOI: 10.1098/rsob.210361] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2021] [Accepted: 03/14/2022] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
CRISPR/Cas9-mediated genome editing has become an extremely powerful technique used to modify gene expression in many organisms, including parasitic protists. Giardia intestinalis, a protist parasite that infects approximately 280 million people around the world each year, has been eluding the use of CRISPR/Cas9 to generate knockout cell lines due to its tetraploid genome. In this work, we show the ability of the in vitro assembled CRISPR/Cas9 components to successfully edit the genome of G. intestinalis. The cell line that stably expresses Cas9 in both nuclei of G. intestinalis showed effective recombination of the cassette containing the transcription units for the gRNA and the resistance marker. This highly efficient process led to the removal of all gene copies at once for three independent experimental genes, mem, cwp1 and mlf1. The method was also applicable to incomplete disruption of the essential gene, as evidenced by significantly reduced expression of tom40. Finally, testing the efficiency of Cas9-induced recombination revealed that homologous arms as short as 150 bp can be sufficient to establish a complete knockout cell line in G. intestinalis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vendula Horáčková
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Science, Charles University, BIOCEV, Praha, Czech Republic
| | - Luboš Voleman
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Science, Charles University, BIOCEV, Praha, Czech Republic
| | - Kari D. Hagen
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, College of Biological Sciences, UC Davis, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Markéta Petrů
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Science, Charles University, BIOCEV, Praha, Czech Republic
| | - Martina Vinopalová
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Science, Charles University, BIOCEV, Praha, Czech Republic
| | - Filip Weisz
- Institute of Immunology and Microbiology, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Natalia Janowicz
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Science, Charles University, BIOCEV, Praha, Czech Republic
| | - Lenka Marková
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Science, Charles University, BIOCEV, Praha, Czech Republic
| | - Alžběta Motyčková
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Science, Charles University, BIOCEV, Praha, Czech Republic
| | - Vladimíra Najdrová
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Science, Charles University, BIOCEV, Praha, Czech Republic
| | - Pavla Tůmová
- Institute of Immunology and Microbiology, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Scott C. Dawson
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, College of Biological Sciences, UC Davis, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Pavel Doležal
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Science, Charles University, BIOCEV, Praha, Czech Republic
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4
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Zajaczkowski P, Lee R, Fletcher-Lartey SM, Alexander K, Mahimbo A, Stark D, Ellis JT. The controversies surrounding Giardia intestinalis assemblages A and B. CURRENT RESEARCH IN PARASITOLOGY & VECTOR-BORNE DISEASES 2022; 1:100055. [PMID: 35284870 PMCID: PMC8906113 DOI: 10.1016/j.crpvbd.2021.100055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2021] [Accepted: 10/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Giardia intestinalis continues to be one of the most encountered parasitic diseases around the world. Although more frequently detected in developing countries, Giardia infections nonetheless pose significant public health problems in developed countries as well. Molecular characterisation of Giardia isolates from humans and animals reveals that there are two genetically different assemblages (known as assemblage A and B) that cause human infections. However, the current molecular assays used to genotype G. intestinalis isolates are quite controversial. This is in part due to a complex phenomenon where assemblages are incorrectly typed and underreported depending on which targeted locus is sequenced. In this review, we outline current knowledge based on molecular epidemiological studies and raise questions as to the reliability of current genotyping assays and a lack of a globally accepted method. Additionally, we discuss the clinical symptoms caused by G. intestinalis infection and how these symptoms vary depending on the assemblage infecting an individual. We also introduce the host-parasite factors that play a role in the subsequent clinical presentation of an infected person, and explore which assemblages are most seen globally.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patricia Zajaczkowski
- Faculty of Science, School of Life Sciences, University of Technology Sydney, Australia
| | - Rogan Lee
- Centre for Infectious Diseases and Microbiology Laboratory Services, ICPMR, Westmead Hospital, Westmead, New South Wales, Australia.,Westmead Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Westmead Hospital, Westmead, NSW, Australia
| | | | - Kate Alexander
- Public Health Unit, South Western Sydney Local Health District, Liverpool, Australia
| | - Abela Mahimbo
- Faculty of Health, School of Public Health, University of Technology Sydney, Australia
| | - Damien Stark
- Department of Microbiology, St Vincent's Hospital Sydney, Darlinghurst, New South Wales, Australia
| | - John T Ellis
- Faculty of Science, School of Life Sciences, University of Technology Sydney, Australia
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5
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Salas KM, Barrios AP, Gonzalez CM, Macias JR, Zapata CV. GIARDIA DUODENALIS GENOTYPING NOT LINKED TO CLINICAL SYMPTOMATOLOGY AND NUTRITIONAL STATUS OF SCHOOL-AGED CHILDREN OF SOLEDAD AND GALAPA MUNICIPALITY SCHOOLS, ATLÁNTICO, COLOMBIA. J Parasitol 2022; 108:1-9. [PMID: 34995352 DOI: 10.1645/21-26] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Giardia duodenalis genotypes A and B have been reported in Colombia. The population consisted of 235 schoolchildren whose ages ranged from 2 to 10 yr of age from the municipalities of Soledad and Galapa in the department of Atlántico, Colombia. Fecal samples were obtained and then analyzed in triplicate using the sedimentation in formalin-ether (Ritchie's method) and direct examination techniques. Of the 235 fecal samples, 35 samples were positive for G. duodenalis; positive samples were concentrated in a sucrose gradient and sonicated for 3 cycles of 20 sec. DNA extraction was performed, and the parasites were genotyped by conventional PCR amplifying a region of the β-giardin gene. A general prevalence of G. duodenalis of 13.2% was found, and of these genotyped samples, 13 (56.7%) and 7 (20%) corresponded to genotype A, 1 (4.3%), and 3 (25%) corresponded to genotype B, and 9 (39.1%) and 2 (16.7%) were not defined, in the municipalities Soledad and Galapa, respectively. Additionally, 23 children were diagnosed with symptomatologic giardiasis, and 12 were asymptomatic; the most relevant symptoms were abdominal pain (7, 20%) and diarrhea (13, 56.7%). The nutritional status of children with Giardia genotypes A and B were as follows: 3 in a state of malnutrition (10%), 10 normal (33.3%), and 6 overweight and obese (20%) with genotype A, and 1 in a state of malnutrition (3.3%) and 3 normal (10%) with genotype B. The genotypes found in G. duodenalis did not show an association with nutritional status or with the clinical manifestations evaluated in schoolchildren.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karen Muñoz Salas
- Research Group on Environmental Management and Sustainability (GESSA), Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of the Coast, Calle 58 #55-66, Barranquilla, Colombia.,Nutrient Biology Research Group, University of the Atlantic, 7 Antigua Vía Puerto Colombia, Barranquilla, Colombia
| | - Alma Polo Barrios
- Chemistry and Biology Research Group, Northern University, Kilometer 5, Antigua Via Puerto Colombia, Barranquilla, Colombia
| | - Carolina Maestre Gonzalez
- Hospital Foundation University of the North, Calle 30, Aeropuerto Ernesto Cortissoz Soledad, Colombia
| | | | - Carmiña Vargas Zapata
- Nutrient Biology Research Group, University of the Atlantic, 7 Antigua Vía Puerto Colombia, Barranquilla, Colombia
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6
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Cai W, Ryan U, Xiao L, Feng Y. Zoonotic giardiasis: an update. Parasitol Res 2021; 120:4199-4218. [PMID: 34623485 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-021-07325-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2021] [Accepted: 09/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Giardia duodenalis is a common intestinal parasite in various hosts, with the disease giardiasis being a zoonosis. The use of molecular typing tools has improved our understanding of the distribution and zoonotic potential of G. duodenalis genotypes in different animals. The present review summarizes recent data on the distribution of G. duodenalis genotypes in humans and animals in different areas. The dominance of G. duodenalis assemblages A and B in humans and common occurrence of host-adapted assemblages in most domesticated animals suggests that zoonotic giardiasis is probably less common than believed and could be attributed mainly to contact with or contamination from just a few species of animals such as nonhuman primates, equines, rabbits, guinea pigs, chinchillas, and beavers. Future studies should be directed to advanced genetic characterization of isolates from well-designed epidemiological investigations, especially comparative analyses of isolates from humans and animals living in the same household or community. This will likely lead to better understanding of zoonotic transmission of G. duodenalis in different environmental and socioeconomic settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weilong Cai
- Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Diseases, College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, 510642, China
| | - Una Ryan
- Vector- and Water-Borne Pathogen Research Group, Harry Butler Institute, Murdoch University, Murdoch, WA, 6150, Australia
| | - Lihua Xiao
- Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Diseases, College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, 510642, China. .,Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Guangzhou, 510642, China.
| | - Yaoyu Feng
- Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Diseases, College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, 510642, China. .,Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Guangzhou, 510642, China.
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7
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Abstract
Giardia duodenalis captured the attention of Leeuwenhoek in 1681 while he was examining his own diarrheal stool, but, ironically, it did not really gain attention as a human pathogen until the 1960s, when outbreaks were reported. Key technological advances, including in vitro cultivation, genomic and proteomic databases, and advances in microscopic and molecular approaches, have led to an understanding that this is a eukaryotic organism with a reduced genome rather than a truly premitochondriate eukaryote. This has included the discovery of mitosomes (vestiges of mitochondria), a transport system with many of the features of the Golgi apparatus, and even evidence for a sexual or parasexual cycle. Cell biology approaches have led to a better understanding of how Giardia survives with two nuclei and how it goes through its life cycle as a noninvasive organism in the hostile environment of the lumen of the host intestine. Studies of its immunology and pathogenesis have moved past the general understanding of the importance of the antibody response in controlling infection to determining the key role of the Th17 response. This work has led to understanding of the requirement for a balanced host immune response that avoids the extremes of an excessive response with collateral damage or one that is unable to clear the organism. This understanding is especially important in view of the remarkable ranges of early manifestations, which range from asymptomatic to persistent diarrhea and weight loss, and longer-term sequelae that include growth stunting in children who had no obvious symptoms and a high frequency of postinfectious irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
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8
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Messa A, Köster PC, Garrine M, Gilchrist C, Bartelt LA, Nhampossa T, Massora S, Kotloff K, Levine MM, Alonso PL, Carmena D, Mandomando I. Molecular diversity of Giardia duodenalis in children under 5 years from the Manhiça district, Southern Mozambique enrolled in a matched case-control study on the aetiology of diarrhoea. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2021; 15:e0008987. [PMID: 33465074 PMCID: PMC7846004 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0008987] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2020] [Revised: 01/29/2021] [Accepted: 11/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Giardia duodenalis is an enteric parasite commonly detected in children. Exposure to this organism may lead to asymptomatic or symptomatic infection. Additionally, early-life infections by this protozoan have been associated with impaired growth and cognitive function in poor resource settings. The Global Enteric Multicenter Study (GEMS) in Mozambique demonstrated that G. duodenalis was more frequent among controls than in diarrhoeal cases (≥3 loosing stools in the previous 24 hours). However, no molecular investigation was conducted to ascertain the molecular variability of the parasite. Therefore, we describe here the frequency and genetic diversity of G. duodenalis infections in children younger than five years of age with and without diarrhoea from the Manhiça district in southern Mozambique enrolled in the context of GEMS. Genomic DNA from 757 G. duodenalis-positive stool samples by immunoassay collected between 2007-2012, were reanalysed by multiplex PCR targeting the E1-HP and C1-P21 genes for the differentiation of assemblages A and B. Overall, 47% (353) of the samples were successfully amplified in at least one locus. Assemblage B accounted for 90% (319/353) of all positives, followed by assemblage A (8%, 29/353) and mixed A+B infections (1%, 5/353). No association between the presence of a given assemblage and the occurrence of diarrhoea could be demonstrated. A total of 351 samples were further analysed by a multi-locus sequence genotyping (MLSG) approach at the glutamate dehydrogenase (gdh), ß-giardin (bg) and triose phosphate isomerase (tpi) genes. Overall, 63% (222/351) of samples were genotyped and/or sub-genotyped in at least one of the three markers. Sequence analysis revealed the presence of assemblages A (10%; 23/222) and B (90%; 199/222) with high molecular diversity at the nucleotide level within the latter; no mixed infections were identified under the MLSG scheme. Assemblage A sequences were assigned to sub-assemblages AI (0.5%, 1/222), AII (7%, 15/222) or ambiguous AII/AIII (3%, 7/222). Within assemblage B, sequences were assigned to sub-assemblages BIII (13%, 28/222), BIV (14%, 31/222) and ambiguous BIII/BIV (59%, 132/222). BIII/BIV sequences accumulated the majority of the single nucleotide polymorphisms detected, particularly in the form of double peaks at chromatogram inspection. This study demonstrated that the occurrence of gastrointestinal illness (diarrhoea) was not associated to a given genotype of G. duodenalis in Mozambican children younger than five years of age. The assemblage B of the parasite was responsible for nine out of ten infections detected in this paediatric population. The extremely high genetic diversity observed within assemblage B isolates was compatible with an hyperendemic epidemiological scenario where infections and reinfections were common. The obtained molecular data may be indicative of high coinfection rates by different G. duodenalis assemblages/sub-assemblages and/or genetic recombination events, although the exact contribution of both mechanisms to the genetic diversity of the parasite remains unknown.
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Affiliation(s)
- Augusto Messa
- Centro de Investigação em Saúde de Manhiça (CISM), Maputo, Mozambique
| | - Pamela C. Köster
- Parasitology Reference and Research Laboratory, National Centre for Microbiology, Health Institute Carlos III, Majadahonda, Madrid, Spain
| | - Marcelino Garrine
- Centro de Investigação em Saúde de Manhiça (CISM), Maputo, Mozambique
- Global Health and Tropical Medicine (GHTM), Instituto de Higiene e Medicina Tropical (IHMT), Universidade Nova de Lisboa (UNL), Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Carol Gilchrist
- University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, United States of America
| | - Luther A. Bartelt
- Division of Infectious Diseases, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, United States of America
| | - Tacilta Nhampossa
- Centro de Investigação em Saúde de Manhiça (CISM), Maputo, Mozambique
- Instituto Nacional de Saúde (INS), Ministério da Saúde, Maputo, Mozambique
| | - Sérgio Massora
- Centro de Investigação em Saúde de Manhiça (CISM), Maputo, Mozambique
| | - Karen Kotloff
- Center for Vaccine Development (CVD), University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Myron M. Levine
- Center for Vaccine Development (CVD), University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Pedro L. Alonso
- Centro de Investigação em Saúde de Manhiça (CISM), Maputo, Mozambique
- ISGlobal, Hospital Clínic-Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - David Carmena
- Parasitology Reference and Research Laboratory, National Centre for Microbiology, Health Institute Carlos III, Majadahonda, Madrid, Spain
| | - Inácio Mandomando
- Centro de Investigação em Saúde de Manhiça (CISM), Maputo, Mozambique
- Instituto Nacional de Saúde (INS), Ministério da Saúde, Maputo, Mozambique
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9
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Succinate dehydrogenase gene as a marker for studying Blastocystis genetic diversity. Heliyon 2020; 6:e05387. [PMID: 33163680 PMCID: PMC7609450 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2020.e05387] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2020] [Revised: 10/01/2020] [Accepted: 10/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Blastocystis has been reported as the most common eukaryotic microorganism residing in the intestines of both humans and animals, with a prevalence of up to 100% in some populations. Since this is a cryptic species, sequence polymorphism are the single strategy to analyses its genetic diversity, being traditionally used the analysis of ssu rRNA gene sequence to determine alleles and subtypes (STs) for this species. This multicopy gene has shown high diversity among different STs, making necessary to explore other genes to assess intraspecific diversity. This study evaluated the use of a novel genetic marker, succinate dehydrogenase (SDHA), for the typing and evaluation of the genetic diversity and genetic population structure of Blastocystis. In total, 375 human fecal samples were collected and subjected to PCR, subtyped using the ssu rRNA marker, and then the SDHA gene was amplified via PCR for 117 samples. We found some incongruences between tree topologies for both molecular markers. However, the clustering by ST previously established for Blastocystis was congruent in the concatenated sequence. SDHA showed lower reticulation (The origination of a lineage through the partial merging of two ancestor lineages) signals and better intra ST clustering ability. Clusters with geographical associations were observed intra ST. The genetic diversity was lower in the marker evaluated compared to that of the ssu rRNA gene (nucleotide diversity = 0.03344 and 0.16986, respectively) and the sequences analyzed showed population expansion with genetic differentiation principally among STs. The ssu rRNA gene was useful to explore interspecific diversity but together with the SDHA gene the resolution power to evaluate intra ST diversity was higher. These results showed the potential of the SDHA marker for studying the intra ST genetic diversity of Blastocystis related with geographical location and the inter ST diversity using the concatenated sequences.
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Capewell P, Krumrie S, Katzer F, Alexander CL, Weir W. Molecular Epidemiology of Giardia Infections in the Genomic Era. Trends Parasitol 2020; 37:142-153. [PMID: 33067130 DOI: 10.1016/j.pt.2020.09.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2020] [Revised: 09/22/2020] [Accepted: 09/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Giardia duodenalis is a major gastrointestinal parasite of humans and animals across the globe. It is also of interest from an evolutionary perspective as it possesses many features that are unique among the eukaryotes, including its distinctive binucleate cell structure. While genomic analysis of a small number of isolates has provided valuable insights, efforts to understand the epidemiology of the disease and the population biology of the parasite have been limited by the molecular tools currently available. We review these tools and assess the impact of affordable and rapid genome sequencing systems increasingly being deployed in diagnostic settings. While these technologies have direct implications for public and veterinary health, they will also improve our understanding of the unique biology of this fascinating parasite.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul Capewell
- Institute of Biodiversity, Animal Health and Comparative Medicine, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, G61 1QH, UK
| | - Sarah Krumrie
- School of Veterinary Medicine, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, G61 1QH, UK
| | - Frank Katzer
- Moredun Research Institute, Pentlands Science Park, Edinburgh, EH26 0PZ, UK
| | - Claire L Alexander
- Scottish Parasitology Diagnostic and Reference Laboratories, Glasgow, G31 2ER, UK
| | - William Weir
- School of Veterinary Medicine, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, G61 1QH, UK.
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11
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Development of a Multilocus Sequence Typing Scheme for Giardia intestinalis. Genes (Basel) 2020; 11:genes11070764. [PMID: 32650382 PMCID: PMC7397270 DOI: 10.3390/genes11070764] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2020] [Revised: 06/27/2020] [Accepted: 06/28/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Giardia intestinalis is an intestinal protozoan most commonly found in humans. It has been grouped into 8 assemblages (A-H). Markers such as the glutamate dehydrogenase gene, triose phosphate isomerase and beta-giardin (β-giardin) have been widely used for genotyping. In addition, different genetic targets have been proposed as a valuable alternative to assess diversity and genetics of this microorganism. Thus, our objective was to evaluate new markers for the study of the diversity and intra-taxa genetic structure of G. intestinalis in silico and in DNA obtained from stool samples. We analysed nine constitutive genes in 80 complete genome sequences and in a group of 24 stool samples from Colombia. Allelic diversity was evaluated by locus and for the concatenated sequence of nine loci that could discriminate up to 53 alleles. Phylogenetic reconstructions allowed us to identify AI, AII and B assemblages. We found evidence of intra- and inter-assemblage recombination events. Population structure analysis showed genetic differentiation among the assemblages analysed.
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12
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Pollo SMJ, Reiling SJ, Wit J, Workentine ML, Guy RA, Batoff GW, Yee J, Dixon BR, Wasmuth JD. Benchmarking hybrid assemblies of Giardia and prediction of widespread intra-isolate structural variation. Parasit Vectors 2020; 13:108. [PMID: 32111234 PMCID: PMC7048089 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-020-3968-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2019] [Accepted: 02/13/2020] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Currently available short read genome assemblies of the tetraploid protozoan parasite Giardia intestinalis are highly fragmented, highlighting the need for improved genome assemblies at a reasonable cost. Long nanopore reads are well suited to resolve repetitive genomic regions resulting in better quality assemblies of eukaryotic genomes. Subsequent addition of highly accurate short reads to long-read assemblies further improves assembly quality. Using this hybrid approach, we assembled genomes for three Giardia isolates, two with published assemblies and one novel, to evaluate the improvement in genome quality gained from long reads. We then used the long reads to predict structural variants to examine this previously unexplored source of genetic variation in Giardia. Methods With MinION reads for each isolate, we assembled genomes using several assemblers specializing in long reads. Assembly metrics, gene finding, and whole genome alignments to the reference genomes enabled direct comparison to evaluate the performance of the nanopore reads. Further improvements from adding Illumina reads to the long-read assemblies were evaluated using gene finding. Structural variants were predicted from alignments of the long reads to the best hybrid genome for each isolate and enrichment of key genes was analyzed using random genome sampling and calculation of percentiles to find thresholds of significance. Results Our hybrid assembly method generated reference quality genomes for each isolate. Consistent with previous findings based on SNPs, examination of heterozygosity using the structural variants found that Giardia BGS was considerably more heterozygous than the other isolates that are from Assemblage A. Further, each isolate was shown to contain structural variant regions enriched for variant-specific surface proteins, a key class of virulence factor in Giardia. Conclusions The ability to generate reference quality genomes from a single MinION run and a multiplexed MiSeq run enables future large-scale comparative genomic studies within the genus Giardia. Further, prediction of structural variants from long reads allows for more in-depth analyses of major sources of genetic variation within and between Giardia isolates that could have effects on both pathogenicity and host range.![]()
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephen M J Pollo
- Department of Ecosystem and Public Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada.,Host-Parasite Interactions Training Program, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Sarah J Reiling
- Bureau of Microbial Hazards, Food Directorate, Health Canada, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Janneke Wit
- Host-Parasite Interactions Training Program, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada.,Department of Comparative Biology and Experimental Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Matthew L Workentine
- Department of Ecosystem and Public Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Rebecca A Guy
- Division of Enteric Diseases, National Microbiology Laboratory, Public Health Agency of Canada, Guelph, ON, Canada
| | - G William Batoff
- Department of Biology, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Program, Trent University, Peterborough, ON, Canada
| | - Janet Yee
- Department of Biology, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Program, Trent University, Peterborough, ON, Canada
| | - Brent R Dixon
- Bureau of Microbial Hazards, Food Directorate, Health Canada, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - James D Wasmuth
- Department of Ecosystem and Public Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada. .,Host-Parasite Interactions Training Program, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada.
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Samie A, Tanih NF, Seisa I, Seheri M, Mphahlele J, ElBakri A, Mbati P. Prevalence and genetic characterization of Giardia lamblia in relation to diarrhea in Limpopo and Gauteng provinces, South Africa. Parasite Epidemiol Control 2020; 9:e00140. [PMID: 32083192 PMCID: PMC7016452 DOI: 10.1016/j.parepi.2020.e00140] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2019] [Revised: 01/28/2020] [Accepted: 01/28/2020] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Very few studies have determined the prevalence and assemblage distribution of Giardia lamblia in South Africa. The present study aimed to ascertain the prevalence of G. lamblia infection and the spread of the various assemblages in two communities in South Africa - Giyani, Limpopo province (rural community) and Pretoria Guateng province (urban community). Methods Prevalence was determined by immunological and molecular methods analyzing a total of 516 stool samples collected from patients visiting different health centres in Giyani and Pretoria. For immunological assays, samples were screened by ELISA to detect G. lamblia antigen. Furthermore, a semi nested PCR amplifying the triose phosphate isomerase (tpi) gene was used to differentiate between the two most common human assemblages (A and B). Findings Of the 516 participants, 40 (7.75%) were identified as positive by ELISA. A statistically significant correlation was observed between the stool texture and Giardia infection (ᵡ2 = 10.533; p = .005). G. lamblia was significantly associated with watery stool types in females p = .008. Furthermore, a significant association was also noticed between the origin of samples (ᵡ2 = 9.725; p = .002). No significant correlation between age and gender was noted. Regarding the age groups, most people who were infected were between 3 and 20 years. A statistically significant association was seen (p = .001) with the distribution of the pathogen with the stool type. The prevalence of Giardia infection was higher in watery stool samples (71.4%) in Giyani region (rural) whereas in Pretoria, high prevalence was found in loose stool samples (6.2%). Generally, the distribution was statistically significant in the stool type collected for the study (p = .005). Genotyping revealed more G. lamblia assemblage B (17.8%) than assemblage A (1.7%). Furthermore, 21.0% of the samples exhibited single infection while 4.2% had mixed infections. Assemblage B was more common in Giyani than in urban Pretoria. Conclusions The study confirms Giardia as an important cause of diarrhea in the concerned communities with people in rural areas more at risk compared to those in urban areas with higher prevalence among younger patients. Therefore, health education campaigns should target young age groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amidou Samie
- Molecular Parasitology and opportunistic infections program, Department of Microbiology, University of Venda, Private Bag X5050, Thohoyandou, Limpopo, South Africa
| | | | - Itumeleng Seisa
- Molecular Parasitology and opportunistic infections program, Department of Microbiology, University of Venda, Private Bag X5050, Thohoyandou, Limpopo, South Africa
| | - Mapaseka Seheri
- South African Medical Research Council Diarrhoeal Pathogens Research Unit, Department of Medical Virology, Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University, Medunsa, 0204, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Jeffrey Mphahlele
- South African Medical Research Council, 1 Soutpansberg Road, Pretoria, Gauteng, South Africa
| | - Ali ElBakri
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences,College of Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, PO Box 27272, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
| | - Peter Mbati
- Deputy Pro Vice Chancellor Academics and Quality, Botho University, Botho Education Park, Kgale, Gaborone, Botswana
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Mizuno T, Matey EJ, Bi X, Songok EM, Ichimura H, Tokoro M. Extremely diversified haplotypes observed among assemblage B population of Giardia intestinalis in Kenya. Parasitol Int 2019; 75:102038. [PMID: 31837398 DOI: 10.1016/j.parint.2019.102038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2019] [Revised: 12/09/2019] [Accepted: 12/10/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
In molecular epidemiological studies of Giardia intestinalis, an pathogenic intestinal flagellate, due to the presence of allelic sequence heterogeneity (ASH) on the tetraploid genome, the image of haplotype diversity in the field remains uncertain. Here we employed the nine assemblage B positive stool samples, which had previously reported from Kenyan children, for the clonal sequence analysis of multiple gene loci (glutamate dehydrogenase (GDH), triosephosphate isomerase (TPI), and beta-giardin (BG)). The diversified unique assemblage B haplotypes as GDH (n = 67), TPI (n = 84), and BG (n = 62), and the assemblage A haplotypes as GDH (n = 7), TPI (n = 14), and BG (n = 15), which were hidden in the previous direct-sequence results, were detected. Among the assemblage B haplotypes, Bayesian phylogeny revealed multiple statistically significant clusters (9, 7, and 7 clusters for GDH, TPI, and BG, respectively). A part of the clusters (2 for GDH and 1 for BG), which included >4 haplotypes from an individual sample, indicated the presence of co-transmission with multiple strains sharing a recent ancestor. Locus-dependent discrepancies, such as different compositions of derived samples in clusters and different genotyping results for the assemblages, were also observed and considered to be the traces of both intra- and inter-assemblage genetic recombination respectively. Our clonal sequence analysis for giardial population, which applied firstly in Kenya, could reveal the higher rates of ASH far beyond the levels reported in other areas and address the complex population structure. The clonal analysis is indispensable for the molecular field study of G. intestinalis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tetsushi Mizuno
- Department of Parasitology, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa, Japan
| | | | - Xiuqiong Bi
- Department of Viral Infection and International Health, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa, Japan
| | | | - Hiroshi Ichimura
- Department of Viral Infection and International Health, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa, Japan
| | - Masaharu Tokoro
- Department of Parasitology, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa, Japan.
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Maciver SK, Koutsogiannis Z, de Obeso Fernández Del Valle A. 'Meiotic genes' are constitutively expressed in an asexual amoeba and are not necessarily involved in sexual reproduction. Biol Lett 2019; 15:20180871. [PMID: 30836881 DOI: 10.1098/rsbl.2018.0871] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The amoebae (and many other protists) have traditionally been considered as asexual organisms, but suspicion has been growing that these organisms are cryptically sexual or are at least related to sexual lineages. This contention is mainly based on genome studies in which the presence of 'meiotic genes' has been discovered. Using RNA-seq (next-generation shotgun sequencing, identifying and quantifying the RNA species in a sample), we have found that the entire repertoire of meiotic genes is expressed in exponentially growing Acanthamoeba and we argue that these so-called meiotic genes are involved in the related process of homologous recombination in this amoeba. We contend that they are only involved in meiosis in other organisms that indulge in sexual reproduction and that homologous recombination is important in asexual protists as a guard against the accumulation of mutations. We also suggest that asexual reproduction is the ancestral state.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sutherland K Maciver
- Centre for Discovery Brain Sciences, Edinburgh Medical School, Biomedical Sciences, University of Edinburgh , Hugh Robson Building, George Square, Edinburgh EH8 9XD , UK
| | - Zisis Koutsogiannis
- Centre for Discovery Brain Sciences, Edinburgh Medical School, Biomedical Sciences, University of Edinburgh , Hugh Robson Building, George Square, Edinburgh EH8 9XD , UK
| | - Alvaro de Obeso Fernández Del Valle
- Centre for Discovery Brain Sciences, Edinburgh Medical School, Biomedical Sciences, University of Edinburgh , Hugh Robson Building, George Square, Edinburgh EH8 9XD , UK
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16
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Maciver SK. Ancestral Eukaryotes Reproduced Asexually, Facilitated by Polyploidy: A Hypothesis. Bioessays 2019; 41:e1900152. [DOI: 10.1002/bies.201900152] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2019] [Revised: 10/10/2019] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Sutherland K. Maciver
- Centre for Discovery Brain Sciences, Edinburgh Medical SchoolBiomedical SciencesUniversity of Edinburgh Hugh Robson Building, George Square Edinburgh EH8 9XD Scotland UK
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17
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Wang Y, Gonzalez-Moreno O, Roellig DM, Oliver L, Huguet J, Guo Y, Feng Y, Xiao L. Epidemiological distribution of genotypes of Giardia duodenalis in humans in Spain. Parasit Vectors 2019; 12:432. [PMID: 31492183 PMCID: PMC6728964 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-019-3692-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2019] [Accepted: 08/28/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although the distribution of Giardia duodenalis genotypes in humans has been increasingly reported in recent years, data on possible differences in pathogen transmission between age groups and virulence between genotypes are scarce. The purpose of this study is to investigate the genetic diversity of G. duodenalis in humans in Spain and compare the distribution of G. duodenalis assemblages A and B between children and adults and clinical presentations between the two genotypes. METHODS In the present study, 125 microscopy-positive fecal samples were collected from humans in Spain over a 7-year period. PCR and sequence analyses of the triosephosphate isomerase, β-giardin and glutamate dehydrogenase genes were used to identify the multilocus genotypes of G. duodenalis. RESULTS Sequence analysis of three genetic loci identified both G. duodenalis assemblages A (29) and B (66), with co-infections of the two in two patients. Among the sequences obtained in this study, four multilocus genotypes (MLGs) of the sub-assemblage AII were observed within assemblage A. In contrast, 19 MLGs were detected within assemblage B due to the high sequence diversity at each locus. One MLG, however, was found in 51.9% (27/52) of assemblage B samples. Children were more commonly infected by assemblage B (44/53 or 83%) than adults (22/42 or 52.4%; χ2 = 10.371, df = 1, P = 0.001). Asymptomatic infection was more common in patients with assemblage A (4/29 or 13.8%) than in those with assemblage B (1/66 or 1.5%; χ2 = 6.091, df = 1, P = 0.029), and the frequency of abdominal pain occurrence was higher in assemblage B patients (65/66 or 98.5%) than assemblage A patients (25/29 or 86.2%; χ2 = 6.091, df = 1, P = 0.029). CONCLUSIONS These results illustrate the existence of differences in genotype distribution between children and adults and clinical presentations between G. duodenalis genotypes. They are useful in understanding the transmission of G. duodenalis in humans in Spain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuanfei Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Bioreactor Engineering, School of Resources and Environmental Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai, 200237 China
| | - Olga Gonzalez-Moreno
- Laboratory of Microbiology and Parasitology, SYNLAB, 08950 Barcelona, Spain
- Laboratory of Parasitology, Department of Biology, Healthcare and Environment, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Barcelona, 08028 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Dawn M. Roellig
- Division of Foodborne, Waterborne, and Environmental Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia 30333 USA
| | - Laura Oliver
- Laboratory of Microbiology and Parasitology, SYNLAB, 08950 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Jordi Huguet
- Laboratory of Microbiology and Parasitology, SYNLAB, 08950 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Yaqiong Guo
- Key Laboratory of Zoonosis of Ministry of Agriculture, College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, 510642 China
| | - Yaoyu Feng
- State Key Laboratory of Bioreactor Engineering, School of Resources and Environmental Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai, 200237 China
- Key Laboratory of Zoonosis of Ministry of Agriculture, College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, 510642 China
| | - Lihua Xiao
- Key Laboratory of Zoonosis of Ministry of Agriculture, College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, 510642 China
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Hofstatter PG, Brown MW, Lahr DJG. Comparative Genomics Supports Sex and Meiosis in Diverse Amoebozoa. Genome Biol Evol 2018; 10:3118-3128. [PMID: 30380054 PMCID: PMC6263441 DOI: 10.1093/gbe/evy241] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/30/2018] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Sex and reproduction are often treated as a single phenomenon in animals and plants, as in these organisms reproduction implies mixis and meiosis. In contrast, sex and reproduction are independent biological phenomena that may or may not be linked in the majority of other eukaryotes. Current evidence supports a eukaryotic ancestor bearing a mating type system and meiosis, which is a process exclusive to eukaryotes. Even though sex is ancestral, the literature regarding life cycles of amoeboid lineages depicts them as asexual organisms. Why would loss of sex be common in amoebae, if it is rarely lost, if ever, in plants and animals, as well as in fungi? One way to approach the question of meiosis in the "asexuals" is to evaluate the patterns of occurrence of genes for the proteins involved in syngamy and meiosis. We have applied a comparative genomic approach to study the occurrence of the machinery for plasmogamy, karyogamy, and meiosis in Amoebozoa, a major amoeboid supergroup. Our results support a putative occurrence of syngamy and meiotic processes in all major amoebozoan lineages. We conclude that most amoebozoans may perform mixis, recombination, and ploidy reduction through canonical meiotic processes. The present evidence indicates the possibility of sexual cycles in many lineages traditionally held as asexual.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paulo G Hofstatter
- Departamento de Zoologia, Instituto de Biociências, Universidade de São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Matthew W Brown
- Department of Biological Sciences, Mississippi State University
| | - Daniel J G Lahr
- Departamento de Zoologia, Instituto de Biociências, Universidade de São Paulo, Brazil
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Seguí R, Muñoz-Antoli C, Klisiowicz DR, Oishi CY, Köster PC, de Lucio A, Hernández-de-Mingo M, Puente P, Toledo R, Esteban JG, Carmena D. Prevalence of intestinal parasites, with emphasis on the molecular epidemiology of Giardia duodenalis and Blastocystis sp., in the Paranaguá Bay, Brazil: a community survey. Parasit Vectors 2018; 11:490. [PMID: 30165880 PMCID: PMC6117969 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-018-3054-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2018] [Accepted: 08/10/2018] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Intestinal protozoan parasites are major contributors to the global burden of gastrointestinal disease causing significant socioeconomic consequences. Children living in resource-poor settings with restricted access to water and sanitary services are particularly at risk of these infections. Methods A prospective, community-based, cross-sectional survey was conducted in Paraná (southern Brazil) between May 2015 and May 2016. A total of 766 stool samples were individually collected from volunteers (male/female ratio: 0.99; age range: 0–76 years) and used for investigating the presence of intestinal helminth and protozoan species by routine microscopic procedures including the Kato-Katz and modified Ritchie concentration methods and the Ziehl-Neelsen stain technique. Quantitative real-time PCR confirmed microscopy-positive samples for Giardia duodenalis and the assemblages and sub-assemblages determined by multilocus sequence-based genotyping of the glutamate dehydrogenase (gdh) and β-giardin (bg) genes of the parasite. Identification of Blastocystis subtypes was carried out by amplification and sequencing of a partial fragment of the small-subunit ribosomal RNA gene (SSU rDNA) of this heterokont microorganism. Results Overall, 46.1% (353/766) of the participants were infected/colonised by at least one intestinal parasite/commensal species. Protozoan and helminth species were detected in 42.7% and 10.1% of the surveyed population, respectively. Blastocystis sp. (28.2%), Endolimax nana (14.9%), and Giardia duodenalis (11.0%) were the most prevalent species found among protozoans and Ascaris lumbricoides (5.0%), Trichuris trichiura (4.6%) and hookworms (1.0%) among helminths. A total of 38 G. duodenalis-positive samples were genotyped at gdh and bg markers, revealing the presence of the sub-assemblages AII (47.4%), AII/AIII (2.6%), BIII (5.3%), BIV (26.3%) and BIII/BIV (13.1%). Two samples (5.3%) were only identified as assemblage B. AII was predominantly found in females aged 5–9 years and was associated with a higher likelihood of reporting gastrointestinal symptoms. A total of 102 Blastocystis-positive samples were successfully subtyped at the SSU rRNA gene revealing the presence of ST1 (36.3%), ST2 (15.7%), ST3 (41.2%), ST4 (2.9%), ST6 (1.0%) and ST8 (2.9%). Conclusions Data presented here indicate that enteric parasites still represent a pressing health concern in Paraná, Brazil, probably due to sub-optimal water, sanitation and hygiene conditions. A mostly anthroponotic origin is suspected for G. duodenalis and Blastocystis sp. infections. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s13071-018-3054-7) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raimundo Seguí
- Department of Pharmacy, Pharmaceutical Technology and Parasitology, Parasitology Area, Faculty of Pharmacy, Valencia University, Avda. Vicent Andrés Estellés s/n, 46100, Burjassot, Valencia, Spain
| | - Carla Muñoz-Antoli
- Department of Pharmacy, Pharmaceutical Technology and Parasitology, Parasitology Area, Faculty of Pharmacy, Valencia University, Avda. Vicent Andrés Estellés s/n, 46100, Burjassot, Valencia, Spain.
| | - Debora R Klisiowicz
- Department of Basic Pathology, Biological Sciences Area, Paraná Federal University, Av. Cel. Francisco H. dos Santos 100, Curitiba, 19031, Brazil
| | - Camila Y Oishi
- Department of Basic Pathology, Biological Sciences Area, Paraná Federal University, Av. Cel. Francisco H. dos Santos 100, Curitiba, 19031, Brazil
| | - Pamela C Köster
- Parasitology Reference and Research Laboratory, National Centre for Microbiology, Ctra. Majadahonda-Pozuelo Km 2, 28220 Majadahonda, Madrid, Spain
| | - Aida de Lucio
- Parasitology Reference and Research Laboratory, National Centre for Microbiology, Ctra. Majadahonda-Pozuelo Km 2, 28220 Majadahonda, Madrid, Spain
| | - Marta Hernández-de-Mingo
- Parasitology Reference and Research Laboratory, National Centre for Microbiology, Ctra. Majadahonda-Pozuelo Km 2, 28220 Majadahonda, Madrid, Spain
| | - Paula Puente
- Parasitology Reference and Research Laboratory, National Centre for Microbiology, Ctra. Majadahonda-Pozuelo Km 2, 28220 Majadahonda, Madrid, Spain
| | - Rafael Toledo
- Department of Pharmacy, Pharmaceutical Technology and Parasitology, Parasitology Area, Faculty of Pharmacy, Valencia University, Avda. Vicent Andrés Estellés s/n, 46100, Burjassot, Valencia, Spain
| | - José G Esteban
- Department of Pharmacy, Pharmaceutical Technology and Parasitology, Parasitology Area, Faculty of Pharmacy, Valencia University, Avda. Vicent Andrés Estellés s/n, 46100, Burjassot, Valencia, Spain
| | - David Carmena
- Parasitology Reference and Research Laboratory, National Centre for Microbiology, Ctra. Majadahonda-Pozuelo Km 2, 28220 Majadahonda, Madrid, Spain.
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Ankarklev J, Lebbad M, Einarsson E, Franzén O, Ahola H, Troell K, Svärd SG. A novel high-resolution multilocus sequence typing of Giardia intestinalis Assemblage A isolates reveals zoonotic transmission, clonal outbreaks and recombination. INFECTION GENETICS AND EVOLUTION 2018; 60:7-16. [DOI: 10.1016/j.meegid.2018.02.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2017] [Revised: 01/30/2018] [Accepted: 02/09/2018] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
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Dacal E, Saugar JM, de Lucio A, Hernández-de-Mingo M, Robinson E, Köster PC, Aznar-Ruiz-de-Alegría ML, Espasa M, Ninda A, Gandasegui J, Sulleiro E, Moreno M, Salvador F, Molina I, Rodríguez E, Carmena D. Prevalence and molecular characterization of Strongyloides stercoralis, Giardia duodenalis, Cryptosporidium spp., and Blastocystis spp. isolates in school children in Cubal, Western Angola. Parasit Vectors 2018; 11:67. [PMID: 29378626 PMCID: PMC5789528 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-018-2640-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2017] [Accepted: 01/11/2018] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Human infections by the gastrointestinal helminth Strongyloides stercoralis and the enteric protozoans Giardia duodenalis, Cryptosporidium spp. and Blastocystis spp. are not formally included in the list of 20 neglected tropical diseases prioritised by the World Health Organization. Although largely underdiagnosed and considered of lower public health relevance, these infections have been increasingly demonstrated to cause significant morbidity and even mortality globally, particularly among children living in resource-poor settings. METHODS In this cross-sectional survey the prevalence, frequency and molecular diversity of S. stercoralis, G. duodenalis, Cryptosporidium spp. and Blastocystis spp. were investigated in a school children population in the province of Benguela (Angola). A total of 351 stool samples were collected during January to June 2015. The presence of S. stercoralis and G. duodenalis was confirmed by qPCR methods. Giardia duodenalis assemblages and sub-assemblages were determined by multilocus sequence-based genotyping of the glutamate dehydrogenase and β-giardin genes of the parasite. Detection and identification of Cryptosporidium and Blastocystis species and subtypes was carried out by amplification and sequencing of a partial fragment of the small-subunit ribosomal RNA gene of both protozoan. Analyses of risk factors potentially associated with the transmission of these pathogens were also conducted. RESULTS Prevalences of S. stercoralis, G. duodenalis, Cryptosporidium spp., and Blastocystis spp. were estimated at 21.4% (95% CI: 17.1-25.7%), 37.9% (95% CI: 32.8-43.0%), 2.9% (95% CI: 1.1-4.5%) and 25.6% (95% CI: 21.18-30.2%), respectively. Overall, 64.1% (225/351) of the children were infected by at least one of the pathogens investigated. Sequence analyses of the 28 G. duodenalis isolates that were successfully genotyped allowed the identification of sub-assemblages AI (14.3%), AII (14.3%), BIII (7.1%) and BIV (25.0%). Discordant typing results AII/AIII and BIII/BIV were identified in 7.1% and 14.3% of the isolates, respectively. A total of five additional isolates (17.9%) were identified as assemblage B. Three Cryptosporidium species including C. hominis (70%), C. parvum (20%) and C. canis (10%) were found circulating in the children population under study. A total of 75 Blastocystis isolates were assigned to the subtypes ST1 (30.7%), ST2 (30.7%), ST3 (36.0%), ST5 (1.3%) and ST7 (1.3%), respectively. Children younger than seven years of age had significantly higher risk of infections by protozoan enteropathogens (PRR: 1.35, P < 0.01), whereas being underweight seemed to have a protective effect against these infections (PRR: 0.74, P = 0.005). CONCLUSIONS The burden of disease attributable to human strongyloidiasis, giardiosis, cryptosporidiosis and blastocystosis in Angola is considerably higher than initially estimated in previous surveys. Surveillance and control of these infections should be jointly tackled with formally considered neglected tropical diseases in order to maximize effort and available resources. Our data also demonstrate the added value of using molecular diagnostic methods in high transmission areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Dacal
- 0000 0000 9314 1427grid.413448.eParasitology Reference and Research Laboratory, National Centre for Microbiology, Health Institute Carlos III, Ctra. Majadahonda-Pozuelo Km 2, 28220 Majadahonda, Madrid Spain
| | - José M. Saugar
- 0000 0000 9314 1427grid.413448.eParasitology Reference and Research Laboratory, National Centre for Microbiology, Health Institute Carlos III, Ctra. Majadahonda-Pozuelo Km 2, 28220 Majadahonda, Madrid Spain
| | - Aida de Lucio
- 0000 0000 9314 1427grid.413448.eParasitology Reference and Research Laboratory, National Centre for Microbiology, Health Institute Carlos III, Ctra. Majadahonda-Pozuelo Km 2, 28220 Majadahonda, Madrid Spain
| | - Marta Hernández-de-Mingo
- 0000 0000 9314 1427grid.413448.eParasitology Reference and Research Laboratory, National Centre for Microbiology, Health Institute Carlos III, Ctra. Majadahonda-Pozuelo Km 2, 28220 Majadahonda, Madrid Spain
| | - Elena Robinson
- 0000 0000 9314 1427grid.413448.eParasitology Reference and Research Laboratory, National Centre for Microbiology, Health Institute Carlos III, Ctra. Majadahonda-Pozuelo Km 2, 28220 Majadahonda, Madrid Spain
| | - Pamela C. Köster
- 0000 0000 9314 1427grid.413448.eParasitology Reference and Research Laboratory, National Centre for Microbiology, Health Institute Carlos III, Ctra. Majadahonda-Pozuelo Km 2, 28220 Majadahonda, Madrid Spain
| | | | - Mateu Espasa
- 0000 0001 0675 8654grid.411083.fMicrobiology Department, Vall d’Hebron University Hospital, PROSICS Barcelona, Passeig de la Vall d’Hebron 119-129, 08035 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Arlette Ninda
- Hospital Nossa Senhora da Paz, Cubal, Benguela, Angola
| | - Javier Gandasegui
- 0000 0001 2180 1817grid.11762.33Biomedical Research Institute of Salamanca - Research Center for Tropical Diseases at the University of Salamanca (IBSAL-CIETUS), Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Salamanca, Paseo de San Vicente 58-182, 37007 Salamanca, Spain
| | - Elena Sulleiro
- 0000 0001 0675 8654grid.411083.fMicrobiology Department, Vall d’Hebron University Hospital, PROSICS Barcelona, Passeig de la Vall d’Hebron 119-129, 08035 Barcelona, Spain
| | | | - Fernando Salvador
- 0000 0001 0675 8654grid.411083.fInfectious Diseases Department, Vall d’Hebron University Hospital, PROSICS Barcelona, Passeig de la Vall d’Hebron 119-129, 08035 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Israel Molina
- 0000 0001 0675 8654grid.411083.fInfectious Diseases Department, Vall d’Hebron University Hospital, PROSICS Barcelona, Passeig de la Vall d’Hebron 119-129, 08035 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Esperanza Rodríguez
- 0000 0000 9314 1427grid.413448.eParasitology Reference and Research Laboratory, National Centre for Microbiology, Health Institute Carlos III, Ctra. Majadahonda-Pozuelo Km 2, 28220 Majadahonda, Madrid Spain
| | - David Carmena
- 0000 0000 9314 1427grid.413448.eParasitology Reference and Research Laboratory, National Centre for Microbiology, Health Institute Carlos III, Ctra. Majadahonda-Pozuelo Km 2, 28220 Majadahonda, Madrid Spain
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Adell-Aledón M, Köster PC, de Lucio A, Puente P, Hernández-de-Mingo M, Sánchez-Thevenet P, Dea-Ayuela MA, Carmena D. Occurrence and molecular epidemiology of Giardia duodenalis infection in dog populations in eastern Spain. BMC Vet Res 2018; 14:26. [PMID: 29357850 PMCID: PMC5778629 DOI: 10.1186/s12917-018-1353-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2017] [Accepted: 01/16/2018] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Giardia duodenalis is one of the most common enteric parasites in domestic animals including dogs. Young animals are more prone to the infection, with clinical manifestations ranging from asymptomatic to acute or chronic diarrhoea. Dogs are primarily infected by canine-specific (C-D) assemblages of G. duodenalis. However, zoonotic assemblages A and B have been increasingly documented in canine isolates, raising the question of whether and to which extent dogs can act as natural reservoirs of human giardiosis. Methods In this cross-sectional epidemiological survey we assessed the molecular diversity of G. duodenalis in dogs in the province of Castellón, Eastern Spain. A total of 348 individual faecal samples from sheltered (n = 218), breeding (n = 24), hunting (n = 68), shepherd (n = 24), and pet (n = 14) dogs were collected between 2014 and 2016. Detection of G. duodenalis cysts in faecal material was carried out by direct fluorescence microscopy as a screening test, whereas a qPCR targeting the small subunit ribosomal RNA gene of the parasite was subsequently used as a confirmatory method. Results Giardia duodenalis was detected in 36.5% (95% CI: 31.6–41.7%) of dogs. No significant differences in prevalence rates could be demonstrated among dogs according to their sex and geographical origin, but breeding (45.8%; 95% CI: 27.9–64.9%) and sheltered (40.4%; 95% CI: 34.1–47.0%) dogs harboured significantly higher proportions of G. duodenalis. Multi-locus sequence-based genotyping of the glutamate dehydrogenase and β-giardin genes of G. duodenalis allowed the characterization of 35 canine isolates that were unambiguously assigned to assemblages A (14.3%), B (22.9%), C (5.7%), and D (37.1%). A number of inter-assemblage mixed infections including A + B (11.4%), A + D (2.9%), and A + B + D (5.7%) were also identified. Conclusions Data presented here are strongly indicative of high infection pressures in kennelled animals. Zoonotic sub-assemblages AII, BIII, and BIV were responsible for a considerable proportion of the G. duodenalis infections detected, but very few of the genotypes identified have been previously documented in Spanish human populations. Although possible, zoonotic transmission between dogs and humans seems an infrequent event in this Spanish region. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s12917-018-1353-z) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manuel Adell-Aledón
- CEU Cardenal Herrera University, C/ Grecia, 31, 12006, Castellón de la Plana, Castellón, Spain
| | - Pamela C Köster
- Parasitology Reference and Research Laboratory, National Centre for Microbiology, Health Institute Carlos III, Ctra. Majadahonda-Pozuelo Km 2, 28220, Majadahonda, Madrid, Spain
| | - Aida de Lucio
- Parasitology Reference and Research Laboratory, National Centre for Microbiology, Health Institute Carlos III, Ctra. Majadahonda-Pozuelo Km 2, 28220, Majadahonda, Madrid, Spain
| | - Paula Puente
- Parasitology Reference and Research Laboratory, National Centre for Microbiology, Health Institute Carlos III, Ctra. Majadahonda-Pozuelo Km 2, 28220, Majadahonda, Madrid, Spain
| | - Marta Hernández-de-Mingo
- Parasitology Reference and Research Laboratory, National Centre for Microbiology, Health Institute Carlos III, Ctra. Majadahonda-Pozuelo Km 2, 28220, Majadahonda, Madrid, Spain
| | - Paula Sánchez-Thevenet
- CEU Cardenal Herrera University, C/ Grecia, 31, 12006, Castellón de la Plana, Castellón, Spain
| | | | - David Carmena
- CEU Cardenal Herrera University, C/ Grecia, 31, 12006, Castellón de la Plana, Castellón, Spain. .,Parasitology Reference and Research Laboratory, National Centre for Microbiology, Health Institute Carlos III, Ctra. Majadahonda-Pozuelo Km 2, 28220, Majadahonda, Madrid, Spain.
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Genetic variability and transcontinental sharing of Giardia duodenalis infrapopulations determined by glutamate dehydrogenase gene. Acta Trop 2018; 177:146-156. [PMID: 29030042 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2017.10.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2017] [Revised: 09/18/2017] [Accepted: 10/02/2017] [Indexed: 12/07/2022]
Abstract
Microevolutionary data of Giardia duodenalis sub-assemblages is a prerequisite for determining the invasion zoonotic patterns of the parasite. To infer transmission patterns that could not be differentiated by the phenotypic features, a population genetic investigation is crucial for the elucidation of the genetic structure of G. duodenalis among the continents. Forty G. duodenalis positive fecal samples were collected from different foci of Northwest Iran. The specimens were subjected to Trichrome staining and sucrose gradient flotation. DNA samples were extracted, amplified, and sequenced by targeting glutamate dehydrogenase (gdh) gene. The global gdh sequences of sub-assemblages AII and BIV retrieved from NCBI GenBank were analyzed to estimate diversity indices, neutrality indices, and gene migration tests. Sequencing analyses indicated various levels of genetic variability of sub-assemblages AII and BIV among the five continents. Sub-assemblage BIV had greater genetic variability (haplotype diversity: 0.975; nucleotide diversity: 0.04246) than sub-assemblage AII. The statistical Fst value demonstrated that the genetic structure of sub-assemblages AII and BIV are moderately differentiated between European-American populations (Fst: 0.05352-0.15182), whereas a significant differentiation was not seen among other geographical population pairs. We conclude that a high gene flow of G. duodenalis sub-assemblages AII and BIV is unequivocally sharing among the continents. The current findings strengthen our knowledge to assess the evolutionary patterns of G. duodenalis in endemic foci of the world and it will become the basis of public health policy to control human giardiasis.
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Bernstein H, Bernstein C, Michod RE. Sex in microbial pathogens. INFECTION GENETICS AND EVOLUTION 2018; 57:8-25. [DOI: 10.1016/j.meegid.2017.10.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2017] [Revised: 10/25/2017] [Accepted: 10/26/2017] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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Lee SC, Ngui R, Tan TK, Roslan MA, Ithoi I, Mahdy MAK, Hakim S L, Lim YAL. Understanding Giardia infections among rural communities using the one health approach. Acta Trop 2017; 176:349-354. [PMID: 28859958 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2017.08.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2017] [Revised: 08/19/2017] [Accepted: 08/26/2017] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
The epidemiology of giardiasis in rural villages in Peninsular Malaysia was examined in the context of the One Health triad that encompasses humans, animals and environment (i.e. river water). A cross-sectional study was carried out among five rural communities in Malaysia to determine the prevalence of Giardia duodenalis in humans, animals and river water. Fecal samples collected from humans and animals were examined by light microscopy. Water was sampled from the rivers adjacent to the target communities and investigated for the occurrence of Giardia cysts. The isolated cysts were further genotyped targeting the glutamate dehydrogenase and triosephosphate isomerase genes. The overall prevalence of G. duodenalis was 6.7% (18/269) and 4.7% (8/169) among humans and animals, respectively. Giardia cysts (mean concentration range: 0.10-5.97 cysts/L) were also found in adjacent rivers at four out of the five villages examined. At Kemensah and Kuala Pangsun, Giardia cysts were isolated from humans [rate: 3.7% each (of 54 each)], animals [rates: 6.3% (of 62) and 11.3% (of 16), respectively] and river water [average concentration of 9 samples each: 0.83±0.81 and 5.97±7.00, respectively]. For both villages at Pos Piah and Paya Lebar, 12.2% (of 98) and 6.1% (of 33) of collected human samples were infected, respectively whilst none of the collected animals samples in these villages were found to be positive. The river water samples of these two villages were also contaminated (average concentration: 0.20±0.35 (of 9) and 0.10±0.19 (of 3), respectively). In conclusion, Giardia cysts were simultaneously observed in the human-animal-environment (i.e., river water) interfaces in at least two of five studied communities highlighting a vital need to improve understanding on the interplay of transmission dynamics, the role of infected humans and animals in contaminating the water sources and the role of water as a vehicle of disease transmission in these communities. Indeed, this study illustrates the One Health approach which is to recognize that the optimal health of humans are interconnected with the well-being of animals and their environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soo Ching Lee
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, 50603 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia; Centre of Excellence for Research in AIDS (CERIA), University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
| | - Romano Ngui
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, 50603 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Tiong Kai Tan
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, 50603 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia; Biodiversity Research Center, Academia Sinica, 115 Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Muhammad Aidil Roslan
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, 50603 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Init Ithoi
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, 50603 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Mohammed A K Mahdy
- Tropical Disease Research Center, University of Science and Technology, Sana'a, Yemen
| | - Lokman Hakim S
- Ministry of Health, Block E7, Parcel E, Federal Government Administration Centre, 62590 Putrajaya, Malaysia; Department of Community Medicine, School of Medicine, International Medical University, Bukit Jalil, 57000 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Yvonne A L Lim
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, 50603 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia; Centre of Excellence for Research in AIDS (CERIA), University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
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Li J, Wang H, Wang R, Zhang L. Giardia duodenalis Infections in Humans and Other Animals in China. Front Microbiol 2017; 8:2004. [PMID: 29081771 PMCID: PMC5645521 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2017.02004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2017] [Accepted: 09/29/2017] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Giardia duodenalis is an important zoonotic pathogen in both public and veterinary health, and has been genotyped into at least eight assemblages (A-H), each with a distinct host range. In recent years, this intestinal protozoan parasite has been identified widely in humans and various other animals, and has even been recorded in environmental contaminants. Along with whole genome sequencing of G. duodenalis, multilocus sequence typing is increasingly being used to characterize G. duodenalis isolates. Here, we review the epidemiology, genotyping, and subtyping of G. duodenalis from humans and a wide range of other animals, as well as from wastewater, in China.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Longxian Zhang
- College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, China
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27
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Azcona-Gutiérrez JM, de Lucio A, Hernández-de-Mingo M, García-García C, Soria-Blanco LM, Morales L, Aguilera M, Fuentes I, Carmena D. Molecular diversity and frequency of the diarrheagenic enteric protozoan Giardia duodenalis and Cryptosporidium spp. in a hospital setting in Northern Spain. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0178575. [PMID: 28617836 PMCID: PMC5472271 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0178575] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2017] [Accepted: 05/15/2017] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Human giardiosis and cryptosporidiosis are caused by the enteric protozoan parasites Giardia duodenalis and Cryptosporidium spp. Both pathogens are major contributors to the global burden of diarrhoeal disease, affecting primarily children and immunodebilitated individuals in resource-poor settings. Giardiosis and cryptosporidiosis also represent an important, often underestimate, public health threat in developed countries. In Spain only limited information is currently available on the epidemiology of these infections. Molecular data on the diversity, frequency, geographical distribution, and seasonality of G. duodenalis assemblages/sub-assemblages and Cryptosporidium species/sub-genotypes are particularly scarce. Methods A longitudinal molecular epidemiological survey was conducted between July 2015 to September 2016 in patients referred to or attended at the Hospital San Pedro (La Rioja, Northern Spain) that tested positive for G. duodenalis (N = 106) or Cryptosporidium spp. (N = 103) by direct microscopy and/or a rapid lateral flow immunochromatographic assay. G. duodenalis infections were subsequently confirmed by real-time PCR and positive isolates assessed by multi-locus sequence genotyping of the glutamate dehydrogenase and β-giardin genes of the parasite. Cryptosporidium species and sub-genotypes were investigated at the 60 kDa glycoprotein or the small subunit ribosomal RNA genes of the parasite. Sociodemographic and clinical parameters of infected patients were also gathered and analysed. Principal findings Out of 90 G. duodenalis-positive isolates by real-time PCR a total of 16 isolates were successfully typed. AII (44%, 7/16) was the most prevalent sub-assemblage found, followed by BIV (31%, 5/16) and BIII (19%, 3/16). A discordant genotype result AII/AIII was identified in an additional (6%, 1/16) isolate. No mixed infections A+B were detected. Similarly, a total of 81 Cryptosporidium spp. isolates were successfully typed, revealing the presence of C. hominis (81%, 66/81) and C. parvum (19%, 15/81). Obtained GP60 sequences were assigned to sub-type families Ib (73%, 59/81) within C. hominis, and IIa (7%, 6/81) and IId (2%, 2/81) within C. parvum. A marked inter-annual variation in Cryptosporidium cases was observed. Conclusions Human giardiasis and cryptosporidiosis are commonly identified in patients seeking medical care in Northern Spain and represent a more important health concern than initially thought. Assemblage A within G. duodenalis and sub-genotype IbA10G2 within C. hominis were the genetic variants of these parasite species more frequently found circulating in the population under study. Molecular data presented here seem to suggest that G. duodenalis and Cryptosporidium infections arise through anthroponotic rather than zoonotic transmission in this Spanish region.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Aida de Lucio
- Parasitology Service, National Centre for Microbiology, Majadahonda, Madrid, Spain
| | | | | | | | - Lucía Morales
- Parasitology Service, National Centre for Microbiology, Majadahonda, Madrid, Spain
| | - María Aguilera
- Parasitology Service, National Centre for Microbiology, Majadahonda, Madrid, Spain
| | - Isabel Fuentes
- Parasitology Service, National Centre for Microbiology, Majadahonda, Madrid, Spain
| | - David Carmena
- Parasitology Service, National Centre for Microbiology, Majadahonda, Madrid, Spain
- * E-mail:
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28
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph Heitman
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina 27710
| | - Sheng Sun
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina 27710
| | - Timothy Y. James
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina 27710
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109
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29
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Durigan M, Ciampi-Guillardi M, Rodrigues RCA, Greinert-Goulart JA, Siqueira-Castro ICV, Leal DAG, Yamashiro S, Bonatti TR, Zucchi MI, Franco RMB, de Souza AP. Population genetic analysis of Giardia duodenalis: genetic diversity and haplotype sharing between clinical and environmental sources. Microbiologyopen 2017; 6. [PMID: 28074554 PMCID: PMC5387310 DOI: 10.1002/mbo3.424] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2016] [Revised: 09/27/2016] [Accepted: 10/06/2016] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Giardia duodenalis is a flagellated intestinal protozoan responsible for infections in various hosts including humans and several wild and domestic animals. Few studies have correlated environmental contamination and clinical infections in the same region. The aim of this study was to compare groups of Giardia duodenalis from clinical and environmental sources through population genetic analyses to verify haplotype sharing and the degree of genetic similarity among populations from clinical and environmental sources in the metropolitan region of Campinas. The results showed high diversity of haplotypes and substantial genetic similarity between clinical and environmental groups of G. duodenalis. We demonstrated sharing of Giardia genotypes among the different populations studied. The comparison between veterinary and human sequences led us to identify new zoonotic genotypes, including human isolates from genetic assemblage C. The application of a population genetic analysis in epidemiological studies allows quantification of the degree of genetic similarity among populations of Giardia duodenalis from different sources of contamination. The genetic similarity of Giardia isolates among human, veterinary, and environmental groups reinforced the correlation between clinical and environmental isolates in this region, which is of great importance for public health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mauricio Durigan
- Centro de Biologia Molecular e Engenharia Genética (CBMEG), Universidade Estadual de Campinas (UNICAMP), Campinas, Brazil
| | - Maisa Ciampi-Guillardi
- Departamento de Fitopatologia e Nematologia - ESALQ - Universidade de São Paulo, Piracicaba, Brazil
| | - Ricardo C A Rodrigues
- Departamento de Biologia Animal, Instituto de Biologia, Universidade Estadual de Campinas (UNICAMP), Campinas, Brazil
| | - Juliane A Greinert-Goulart
- Departamento de Biologia Animal, Instituto de Biologia, Universidade Estadual de Campinas (UNICAMP), Campinas, Brazil
| | - Isabel C V Siqueira-Castro
- Departamento de Biologia Animal, Instituto de Biologia, Universidade Estadual de Campinas (UNICAMP), Campinas, Brazil
| | - Diego A G Leal
- Departamento de Patologia Básica, Setor de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal do Paraná (UFPR), Curitiba, Brazil
| | - Sandra Yamashiro
- Departamento de Biologia Animal, Instituto de Biologia, Universidade Estadual de Campinas (UNICAMP), Campinas, Brazil
| | - Taís R Bonatti
- Departamento de Biologia Animal, Instituto de Biologia, Universidade Estadual de Campinas (UNICAMP), Campinas, Brazil
| | - Maria I Zucchi
- APTA - Agência Paulista de Tecnologia dos Agronegócios, Pólo Regional Centro Sul, Piracicaba, Brazil
| | - Regina M B Franco
- Departamento de Biologia Animal, Instituto de Biologia, Universidade Estadual de Campinas (UNICAMP), Campinas, Brazil
| | - Anete P de Souza
- Centro de Biologia Molecular e Engenharia Genética (CBMEG), Universidade Estadual de Campinas (UNICAMP), Campinas, Brazil.,Departamento de Biologia Vegetal, Instituto de Biologia, Universidade Estadual de Campinas (UNICAMP), Campinas, Brazil
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Gabín-García LB, Bartolomé C, Abal-Fabeiro JL, Méndez S, Llovo J, Maside X. Strong genetic structure revealed by multilocus patterns of variation in Giardia duodenalis isolates of patients from Galicia (NW-Iberian Peninsula). INFECTION GENETICS AND EVOLUTION 2016; 48:131-141. [PMID: 27993728 DOI: 10.1016/j.meegid.2016.12.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2016] [Revised: 11/28/2016] [Accepted: 12/13/2016] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
We report a survey of genetic variation at three coding loci in Giardia duodenalis of assemblages A and B obtained from stool samples of patients from Santiago de Compostela (Galicia, NW-Iberian Peninsula). The mean pooled synonymous diversity for assemblage A was nearly five times lower than for assemblage B (0.77%±0.30% and 4.14%±1.65%, respectively). Synonymous variation in both assemblages was in mutation-drift equilibrium and an excess of low-frequency nonsynonymous variants suggested the action of purifying selection at the three loci. Differences between isolates contributed to 40% and 60% of total genetic variance in assemblages A and B, respectively, which revealed a significant genetic structure. These results, together with the lack of evidence for recombination, support that (i) Giardia assemblages A and B are in demographic equilibrium and behave as two genetically isolated populations, (ii) infections are initiated by a reduced number of individuals, which may be genetically diverse and even belong to different assemblages, and (iii) parasites reproduce clonally within the host. However, the observation of invariant loci in some isolates means that mechanisms for the homogenization of the genetic content of the two diploid nuclei in each individual must exist.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luis B Gabín-García
- Grupo de Medicina Xenómica, Centro de Investigación en Medicina Molecular e Enfermidades Crónicas da Universidade de Santiago de Compostela (CIMUS), Avda. Barcelona s/n, 15782 Santiago, Galicia, Spain; Xenómica Comparada de Parasitos Humanos, Instituto de Investigacións Sanitarias de Santiago (IDIS), Travesia da Choupana s/n, 15706 Santiago, Galicia, Spain.
| | - Carolina Bartolomé
- Grupo de Medicina Xenómica, Centro de Investigación en Medicina Molecular e Enfermidades Crónicas da Universidade de Santiago de Compostela (CIMUS), Avda. Barcelona s/n, 15782 Santiago, Galicia, Spain; Xenómica Comparada de Parasitos Humanos, Instituto de Investigacións Sanitarias de Santiago (IDIS), Travesia da Choupana s/n, 15706 Santiago, Galicia, Spain
| | - José L Abal-Fabeiro
- Grupo de Medicina Xenómica, Centro de Investigación en Medicina Molecular e Enfermidades Crónicas da Universidade de Santiago de Compostela (CIMUS), Avda. Barcelona s/n, 15782 Santiago, Galicia, Spain; Xenómica Comparada de Parasitos Humanos, Instituto de Investigacións Sanitarias de Santiago (IDIS), Travesia da Choupana s/n, 15706 Santiago, Galicia, Spain
| | - Santiago Méndez
- Xenómica Comparada de Parasitos Humanos, Instituto de Investigacións Sanitarias de Santiago (IDIS), Travesia da Choupana s/n, 15706 Santiago, Galicia, Spain; Servizo de Microbioloxía e Parasitoloxía, Complexo Hospitalario Universitario de Santiago, Travesia da Choupana s/n, 15706 Santiago, Galicia, Spain
| | - José Llovo
- Xenómica Comparada de Parasitos Humanos, Instituto de Investigacións Sanitarias de Santiago (IDIS), Travesia da Choupana s/n, 15706 Santiago, Galicia, Spain; Servizo de Microbioloxía e Parasitoloxía, Complexo Hospitalario Universitario de Santiago, Travesia da Choupana s/n, 15706 Santiago, Galicia, Spain
| | - Xulio Maside
- Grupo de Medicina Xenómica, Centro de Investigación en Medicina Molecular e Enfermidades Crónicas da Universidade de Santiago de Compostela (CIMUS), Avda. Barcelona s/n, 15782 Santiago, Galicia, Spain; Xenómica Comparada de Parasitos Humanos, Instituto de Investigacións Sanitarias de Santiago (IDIS), Travesia da Choupana s/n, 15706 Santiago, Galicia, Spain
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Tibayrenc M, Ayala FJ. Is Predominant Clonal Evolution a Common Evolutionary Adaptation to Parasitism in Pathogenic Parasitic Protozoa, Fungi, Bacteria, and Viruses? ADVANCES IN PARASITOLOGY 2016; 97:243-325. [PMID: 28325372 DOI: 10.1016/bs.apar.2016.08.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
We propose that predominant clonal evolution (PCE) in microbial pathogens be defined as restrained recombination on an evolutionary scale, with genetic exchange scarce enough to not break the prevalent pattern of clonal population structure. The main features of PCE are (1) strong linkage disequilibrium, (2) the widespread occurrence of stable genetic clusters blurred by occasional bouts of genetic exchange ('near-clades'), (3) the existence of a "clonality threshold", beyond which recombination is efficiently countered by PCE, and near-clades irreversibly diverge. We hypothesize that the PCE features are not mainly due to natural selection but also chiefly originate from in-built genetic properties of pathogens. We show that the PCE model obtains even in microbes that have been considered as 'highly recombining', such as Neisseria meningitidis, and that some clonality features are observed even in Plasmodium, which has been long described as panmictic. Lastly, we provide evidence that PCE features are also observed in viruses, taking into account their extremely fast genetic turnover. The PCE model provides a convenient population genetic framework for any kind of micropathogen. It makes it possible to describe convenient units of analysis (clones and near-clades) for all applied studies. Due to PCE features, these units of analysis are stable in space and time, and clearly delimited. The PCE model opens up the possibility of revisiting the problem of species definition in these organisms. We hypothesize that PCE constitutes a major evolutionary strategy for protozoa, fungi, bacteria, and viruses to adapt to parasitism.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Tibayrenc
- Institut de Recherche pour le Développement, Montpellier, France
| | - F J Ayala
- University of California at Irvine, United States
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Asexual Amoebae Escape Muller's Ratchet through Polyploidy. Trends Parasitol 2016; 32:855-862. [PMID: 27599632 DOI: 10.1016/j.pt.2016.08.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2016] [Revised: 08/05/2016] [Accepted: 08/08/2016] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
While some amoebae reproduce sexually, many amoebae (e.g., Acanthamoeba, Naegleria) reproduce asexually and therefore, according to popular doctrine, are likely to have been genetically disadvantaged as a consequence. In the absence of sex, mutations are proposed to accumulate by a mechanism known as Muller's ratchet. I hypothesise that amoebae can escape the ravages of accumulated mutation by virtue of their being polyploid. The polyploid state reduces spontaneous mutation accumulation by gene conversion, the freshly mutated copy being corrected by the presence of the many other wild-type copies. In this manner these amoebae reap the benefits of an asexual reproductive existence: principally, that it is rapid and convenient. Evidence for this mechanism comes from polyploid plants, bacteria, and archaea.
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Fantinatti M, Bello AR, Fernandes O, Da-Cruz AM. Identification of Giardia lamblia Assemblage E in Humans Points to a New Anthropozoonotic Cycle. J Infect Dis 2016; 214:1256-9. [PMID: 27511898 DOI: 10.1093/infdis/jiw361] [Citation(s) in RCA: 112] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2016] [Accepted: 08/03/2016] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Giardia lamblia is a pathogen transmitted by water and food that causes infection worldwide. Giardia genotypes are classified into 8 assemblages (A-H). Assemblages A and B are detected in humans, but they are potentially zoonotic because they infect other mammalian hosts. Giardia in samples from 44 children was genotyped. Conserved fragments of the genes encoding β-giardin and glutamate dehydrogenase were sequenced and their alignment were carried out with sequences deposited in GenBank. As expected for Rio de Janeiro, the majority of samples were related to assemblage A. Surprisingly, assemblage E was detected in 15 samples. Detection of assemblage E in humans suggests a new zoonotic route of Giardia transmission.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Fantinatti
- Laboratório Interdisciplinar de Pesquisas Médicas, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz
| | - Alexandre R Bello
- Disciplina de Parasitologia, DMIP, Faculdade de Ciências Médicas, Universidade do Estado do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Octavio Fernandes
- Laboratório Interdisciplinar de Pesquisas Médicas, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz
| | - Alda M Da-Cruz
- Laboratório Interdisciplinar de Pesquisas Médicas, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz Disciplina de Parasitologia, DMIP, Faculdade de Ciências Médicas, Universidade do Estado do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
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Torres-Huerta AL, Martínez-Miguel RM, Bazán-Tejeda ML, Bermúdez-Cruz RM. Characterization of recombinase DMC1B and its functional role as Rad51 in DNA damage repair in Giardia duodenalis trophozoites. Biochimie 2016; 127:173-86. [DOI: 10.1016/j.biochi.2016.05.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2015] [Accepted: 05/22/2016] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
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de Lucio A, Amor-Aramendía A, Bailo B, Saugar JM, Anegagrie M, Arroyo A, López-Quintana B, Zewdie D, Ayehubizu Z, Yizengaw E, Abera B, Yimer M, Mulu W, Hailu T, Herrador Z, Fuentes I, Carmena D. Prevalence and Genetic Diversity of Giardia duodenalis and Cryptosporidium spp. among School Children in a Rural Area of the Amhara Region, North-West Ethiopia. PLoS One 2016; 11:e0159992. [PMID: 27466809 PMCID: PMC4965151 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0159992] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2016] [Accepted: 06/22/2016] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Backgroud Giardia duodenalis and Cryptosporidium spp. are enteric protozoan causing gastrointestinal illness in humans and animals. Giardiasis and cryptosporidiosis are not formally considered as neglected tropical diseases, but belong to the group of poverty-related infectious diseases that impair the development and socio-economic potential of infected individuals in developing countries. Methods We report here the prevalence and genetic diversity of G. duodenalis and Cryptosporidium spp. in children attending rural primary schools in the Bahir Dar district of the Amhara Region, Ethiopia. Stool samples were collected from 393 children and analysed by molecular methods. G. duodenalis was detected by real-time PCR, and the assemblages and sub-assemblages were determined by multilocus sequence-based genotyping of the glutamate dehydrogenase and β-giardin genes of the parasite. Detection and identification of Cryptosporidium species was carried out by sequencing of a partial fragment of the small-subunit ribosomal RNA gene. Principal Findings The PCR-based prevalences of G. duodenalis and Cryptosporidium spp. were 55.0% (216/393) and 4.6% (18/393), respectively. A total of 78 G. duodenalis isolates were successfully characterized, revealing the presence of sub-assemblages AII (10.3%), BIII (28.2%), and BIV (32.0%). Discordant typing results AII/AIII and BIII/BIV were identified in 7.7% and 15.4% of the isolates, respectively. An additional five (6.4%) isolates were assigned to assemblage B. No mixed infections of assemblages A+B were found. Extensive genetic variation at the nucleotide level was observed within assemblage B (but no within assemblage A), resulting in the identification of a large number of sub-types. Cryptosporidium diversity was demonstrated by the occurrence of C. hominis, C. parvum, and C. viatorum in the population under study. Conclusions Our data suggest an epidemiological scenario with an elevated transmission intensity of a wide range of G. duodenalis genetic variants. Importantly, the elevated degree of genetic diversity observed within assemblage B is consistent with the occurrence of intra-assemblage recombination in G. duodenalis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aida de Lucio
- Parasitology Service, National Centre for Microbiology, Majadahonda, Madrid, Spain
| | | | - Begoña Bailo
- Parasitology Service, National Centre for Microbiology, Majadahonda, Madrid, Spain
| | - José M. Saugar
- Parasitology Service, National Centre for Microbiology, Majadahonda, Madrid, Spain
| | - Melaku Anegagrie
- National Centre of Tropical Medicine, Madrid, Spain
- Mundo Sano Foundation, Madrid, Spain
| | - Ana Arroyo
- Microbiology and Parasitology Service, La Paz-Carlos III Hospital, Madrid, Spain
| | | | - Derjew Zewdie
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Parasitology, College of Medicine and Health Science, Bahir Dar, Ethiopia
| | - Zimmam Ayehubizu
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Parasitology, College of Medicine and Health Science, Bahir Dar, Ethiopia
| | - Endalew Yizengaw
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Parasitology, College of Medicine and Health Science, Bahir Dar, Ethiopia
| | - Bayeh Abera
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Parasitology, College of Medicine and Health Science, Bahir Dar, Ethiopia
| | - Mulat Yimer
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Parasitology, College of Medicine and Health Science, Bahir Dar, Ethiopia
| | - Wondemagen Mulu
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Parasitology, College of Medicine and Health Science, Bahir Dar, Ethiopia
| | - Tadesse Hailu
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Parasitology, College of Medicine and Health Science, Bahir Dar, Ethiopia
| | | | - Isabel Fuentes
- Parasitology Service, National Centre for Microbiology, Majadahonda, Madrid, Spain
| | - David Carmena
- Parasitology Service, National Centre for Microbiology, Majadahonda, Madrid, Spain
- * E-mail: ;
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Wegayehu T, Karim MR, Li J, Adamu H, Erko B, Zhang L, Tilahun G. Multilocus genotyping of Giardia duodenalis isolates from children in Oromia Special Zone, central Ethiopia. BMC Microbiol 2016; 16:89. [PMID: 27209324 PMCID: PMC4875739 DOI: 10.1186/s12866-016-0706-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2016] [Accepted: 05/12/2016] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Giardia duodenalis is the etiologic agent of giardiasis in humans and other mammals worldwide. The burden of disease is high among children in developing countries where sanitation is inadequate. However, the epidemiology and genetic diversity of this parasite is poorly understood in Ethiopia. This study aimed to determine the prevalence and genetic diversity of G. duodenalis in asymptomatic children in Oromia Special Zone, central Ethiopia. RESULTS A total of 286 fresh fecal specimens were collected from children and screened using microscopy and PCR. The prevalence of Giardia duodenalis was 10.8 % (31/286) and 16.8 % (48/286) as detected by microscopy and nested PCR, respectively. The infection rate by the study area, sex and age group difference was not significant (P > 0.05). Genotyping results showed that 22.9 % (11/48) of the isolates belonged to assemblage A while 77.1 % (37/48) belonged to assemblage B. Although double peaks were observed at the chromatogram level, no mixed assemblage or sub-assemblage infections were demonstrated. Isolates of assemblage A mostly belonged to the sub-assemblage AII and showed similarity with previously described isolates. However, there was great genetic variability within assemblage B that showed heterogeneous nucleotide positions. Fifteen of them were new genotypes: 5 at the triose phosphate isomerase (tpi), 2 at the β-giardin (bg), and 8 at the glutamate dehydrogenase (gdh) genes. CONCLUSIONS Giardia duodenalis mainly assemblage B infection was predominant among the asymptomatic children in the study area. The high polymorphism found in isolates of assemblage B warrants a more defining tool to discriminate assemblage B at the sub-assemblage level. The findings of the present study indicate that there is a need to carry out national screening programs aiming to detect asymptomatic infections to minimize the reservoir of the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Teklu Wegayehu
- Aklilu Lemma Institute of Pathobiology, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. .,College of Natural Sciences, Arba Minch University, Arba Minch, Ethiopia.
| | - Md Robiul Karim
- Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China.,College of Animal Sciences and Veterinary Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Junqiang Li
- College of Animal Sciences and Veterinary Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Haileeyesus Adamu
- Institute of Biotechnology, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Berhanu Erko
- Aklilu Lemma Institute of Pathobiology, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Longxian Zhang
- College of Animal Sciences and Veterinary Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Getachew Tilahun
- Aklilu Lemma Institute of Pathobiology, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
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Oldman J, Wu T, van Iersel L, Moulton V. TriLoNet: Piecing Together Small Networks to Reconstruct Reticulate Evolutionary Histories. Mol Biol Evol 2016; 33:2151-62. [PMID: 27189565 DOI: 10.1093/molbev/msw068] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Phylogenetic networks are a generalization of evolutionary trees that can be used to represent reticulate processes such as hybridization and recombination. Here, we introduce a new approach called TriLoNet (Trinet Level- one Network algorithm) to construct such networks directly from sequence alignments which works by piecing together smaller phylogenetic networks. More specifically, using a bottom up approach similar to Neighbor-Joining, TriLoNet constructs level-1 networks (networks that are somewhat more general than trees) from smaller level-1 networks on three taxa. In simulations, we show that TriLoNet compares well with Lev1athan, a method for reconstructing level-1 networks from three-leaved trees. In particular, in simulations we find that Lev1athan tends to generate networks that overestimate the number of reticulate events as compared with those generated by TriLoNet. We also illustrate TriLoNet's applicability using simulated and real sequence data involving recombination, demonstrating that it has the potential to reconstruct informative reticulate evolutionary histories. TriLoNet has been implemented in JAVA and is freely available at https://www.uea.ac.uk/computing/TriLoNet.
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Affiliation(s)
- James Oldman
- School of Computing Sciences, University of East Anglia, Norwich, United Kingdom
| | - Taoyang Wu
- School of Computing Sciences, University of East Anglia, Norwich, United Kingdom
| | - Leo van Iersel
- Delft Institute of Applied Mathematics, Delft University of Technology, Delft, The Netherlands
| | - Vincent Moulton
- School of Computing Sciences, University of East Anglia, Norwich, United Kingdom
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El Basha NR, Zaki MM, Hassanin OM, Rehan MK, Omran D. GiardiaAssemblagesAandBin Diarrheic Patients: A Comparative Study in Egyptian Children and Adults. J Parasitol 2016; 102:69-74. [DOI: 10.1645/14-676] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
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Bloomfield G. Atypical ploidy cycles, Spo11, and the evolution of meiosis. Semin Cell Dev Biol 2016; 54:158-64. [PMID: 26811992 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcdb.2016.01.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2015] [Accepted: 01/20/2016] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The Spo11 protein induces DNA double strand breaks before the first division of meiosis, enabling the formation of the chiasmata that physically link homologous chromosomes as they align. Spo11 is an ancient and well conserved protein, related in sequence and structure to a DNA topoisomerase subunit found in Archaea as well as a subset of eukaryotes. However the origins of its meiotic function are unclear. This review examines some apparent exceptions to the rule that Spo11 activity is specific to, and required for meiosis. Spo11 appears to function in the context of unusual forms of ploidy reduction in some protists and fungi. One lineage of amoebae, the dictyostelids, is thought to undergo meiosis during its sexual cycle despite having lost Spo11 entirely. Further experimental characterisation of these and other non-canonical ploidy cycling mechanisms may cast light of the evolution of meiosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gareth Bloomfield
- MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Francis Crick Avenue, Cambridge Biomedical Campus, Cambridge, CB2 0QH, United Kingdom.
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de Lucio A, Martínez-Ruiz R, Merino FJ, Bailo B, Aguilera M, Fuentes I, Carmena D. Molecular Genotyping of Giardia duodenalis Isolates from Symptomatic Individuals Attending Two Major Public Hospitals in Madrid, Spain. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0143981. [PMID: 26641082 PMCID: PMC4671680 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0143981] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2015] [Accepted: 11/11/2015] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The flagellate protozoan Giardia duodenalis is an enteric parasite causing human giardiasis, a major gastrointestinal disease of global distribution affecting both developing and industrialised countries. In Spain, sporadic cases of giardiasis have been regularly identified, particularly in pediatric and immigrant populations. However, there is limited information on the genetic variability of circulating G. duodenalis isolates in the country. METHODS In this longitudinal molecular epidemiological study we report the diversity and frequency of the G. duodenalis assemblages and sub-assemblages identified in 199 stool samples collected from 184 individual with symptoms compatible with giardiasis presenting to two major public hospitals in Madrid for the period December 2013-January 2015. G. duodenalis cysts were initially detected by conventional microscopy and/or immunochomatography on stool samples. Confirmation of the infection was performed by direct immunofluorescence and real-time PCR methods. G. duodenalis assemblages and sub-assemblages were determined by multi-locus genotyping of the glutamate dehydrogenase (GDH) and β-giardin (BG) genes of the parasite. Sociodemographic and clinical features of patients infected with G. duodenalis were also analysed. PRINCIPAL FINDINGS Of 188 confirmed positive samples from 178 giardiasis cases a total of 124 G. duodenalis isolates were successfully typed at the GDH and/or the BG loci, revealing the presence of sub-assemblages BIV (62.1%), AII (15.3%), BIII (4.0%), AI (0.8%), and AIII (0.8%). Additionally, 6.5% of the isolates were only characterised at the assemblage level, being all of them assigned to assemblage B. Discordant genotype results AII/AIII or BIII/BIV were also observed in 10.5% of DNA isolates. A large number of multi-locus genotypes were identified in G. duodenalis assemblage B, but not assemblage A, isolates at both the GDH and BG loci, confirming the high degree of genetic variability observed in other molecular surveys. BIV was the most prevalent genetic variant of G. duodenalis found in individuals with symptomatic giardiasis in the population under study. CONCLUSIONS Human giardiasis is an ongoing public health problem in Spain affecting primarily young children under four years of age but also individuals of all age groups. Our typing and sub-typing results demonstrate that assemblage B is the most prevalent G. duodenalis assemblage circulating in patients with clinical giardiasis in Central Spain. Our analyses also revealed a large genetic variability in assemblage B (but not assemblage A) isolates of the parasite, corroborating the information obtained in similar studies in other geographical regions. We believe that molecular data presented here provide epidemiological evidence at the population level in support of the existence of genetic exchange within assemblages of G. duodenalis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aida de Lucio
- Parasitology Service, National Centre for Microbiology, Carlos III Health Institute, Majadahonda, Madrid, Spain
| | - Rocío Martínez-Ruiz
- Microbiology and Clinical Parasitology Service, University Hospital Puerta de Hierro Majadahonda, Majadahonda, Madrid, Spain
| | - Francisco J. Merino
- Microbiology Service, University Hospital Severo Ochoa, Leganés, Madrid, Spain
| | - Begoña Bailo
- Parasitology Service, National Centre for Microbiology, Carlos III Health Institute, Majadahonda, Madrid, Spain
| | - María Aguilera
- Parasitology Service, National Centre for Microbiology, Carlos III Health Institute, Majadahonda, Madrid, Spain
| | - Isabel Fuentes
- Parasitology Service, National Centre for Microbiology, Carlos III Health Institute, Majadahonda, Madrid, Spain
| | - David Carmena
- Parasitology Service, National Centre for Microbiology, Carlos III Health Institute, Majadahonda, Madrid, Spain
- * E-mail:
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Tibayrenc M, Ayala FJ. Reproductive clonality in protozoan pathogens-truth or artifact? A comment on Ramírez and Llewellyn. Mol Ecol 2015; 24:5778-81. [DOI: 10.1111/mec.13443] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2015] [Revised: 07/07/2015] [Accepted: 07/20/2015] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Michel Tibayrenc
- Maladies Infectieuses et Vecteurs Ecologie, Génétique, Evolution et Contrôle; MIVEGEC (IRD 224-CNRS 5290-UM1-UM2); IRD Center, BP 64501; 34394 Montpellier Cedex 5 France
| | - Francisco J. Ayala
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology; University of California Irvine; 321 Steinhaus Hall Irvine CA 92697-2525 USA
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Ankarklev J, Franzén O, Peirasmaki D, Jerlström-Hultqvist J, Lebbad M, Andersson J, Andersson B, Svärd SG. Comparative genomic analyses of freshly isolated Giardia intestinalis assemblage A isolates. BMC Genomics 2015; 16:697. [PMID: 26370391 PMCID: PMC4570179 DOI: 10.1186/s12864-015-1893-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2015] [Accepted: 09/01/2015] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The diarrhea-causing protozoan Giardia intestinalis makes up a species complex of eight different assemblages (A-H), where assemblage A and B infect humans. Comparative whole-genome analyses of three of these assemblages have shown that there is significant divergence at the inter-assemblage level, however little is currently known regarding variation at the intra-assemblage level. We have performed whole genome sequencing of two sub-assemblage AII isolates, recently axenized from symptomatic human patients, to study the biological and genetic diversity within assemblage A isolates. Results Several biological differences between the new and earlier characterized assemblage A isolates were identified, including a difference in growth medium preference. The two AII isolates were of different sub-assemblage types (AII-1 [AS175] and AII-2 [AS98]) and showed size differences in the smallest chromosomes. The amount of genetic diversity was characterized in relation to the genome of the Giardia reference isolate WB, an assemblage AI isolate. Our analyses indicate that the divergence between AI and AII is approximately 1 %, represented by ~100,000 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP) distributed over the chromosomes with enrichment in variable genomic regions containing surface antigens. The level of allelic sequence heterozygosity (ASH) in the two AII isolates was found to be 0.25–0.35 %, which is 25–30 fold higher than in the WB isolate and 10 fold higher than the assemblage AII isolate DH (0.037 %). 35 protein-encoding genes, not found in the WB genome, were identified in the two AII genomes. The large gene families of variant-specific surface proteins (VSPs) and high cysteine membrane proteins (HCMPs) showed isolate-specific divergences of the gene repertoires. Certain genes, often in small gene families with 2 to 8 members, localize to the variable regions of the genomes and show high sequence diversity between the assemblage A isolates. One of the families, Bactericidal/Permeability Increasing-like protein (BPIL), with eight members was characterized further and the proteins were shown to localize to the ER in trophozoites. Conclusions Giardia genomes are modular with highly conserved core regions mixed up by variable regions containing high levels of ASH, SNPs and variable surface antigens. There are significant genomic variations in assemblage A isolates, in terms of chromosome size, gene content, surface protein repertoire and gene polymorphisms and these differences mainly localize to the variable regions of the genomes. The large genetic differences within one assemblage of G. intestinalis strengthen the argument that the assemblages represent different Giardia species. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s12864-015-1893-6) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johan Ankarklev
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Science for Life Laboratory, BMC, Uppsala University, Box 596, SE-751 24, Uppsala, Sweden.
| | - Oscar Franzén
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Karolinska Institutet, Box 285, SE-171 77, Stockholm, Sweden. .,Science for Life Laboratory, KISP, Tomtebodavägen 23A, 171 65, Solna, Sweden.
| | - Dimitra Peirasmaki
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Science for Life Laboratory, BMC, Uppsala University, Box 596, SE-751 24, Uppsala, Sweden.
| | - Jon Jerlström-Hultqvist
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Science for Life Laboratory, BMC, Uppsala University, Box 596, SE-751 24, Uppsala, Sweden.
| | - Marianne Lebbad
- Department of Microbiology, Public Health Agency of Sweden, SE-171 82, Solna, Sweden.
| | - Jan Andersson
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Science for Life Laboratory, BMC, Uppsala University, Box 596, SE-751 24, Uppsala, Sweden.
| | - Björn Andersson
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Karolinska Institutet, Box 285, SE-171 77, Stockholm, Sweden. .,Science for Life Laboratory, KISP, Tomtebodavägen 23A, 171 65, Solna, Sweden.
| | - Staffan G Svärd
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Science for Life Laboratory, BMC, Uppsala University, Box 596, SE-751 24, Uppsala, Sweden.
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Choy SH, Mahdy MAK, Al-Mekhlafi HM, Low VL, Surin J. Population expansion and gene flow in Giardia duodenalis as revealed by triosephosphate isomerase gene. Parasit Vectors 2015; 8:454. [PMID: 26373536 PMCID: PMC4572684 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-015-1084-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2015] [Accepted: 09/10/2015] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Giardia duodenalis is a protozoan parasite that can cause significant diarrhoeal diseases. Knowledge of population genetics is a prerequisite for ascertaining the invasion patterns of this parasite. In order to infer evolutionary patterns that could not be uncovered based on the morphological features, a population genetic study with the incorporation of molecular marker was carried out to access the genetic structure of G. duodenalis isolated from the Malaysian population and the global populations. Methods A total of 154 samples positive for Giardia, collected from different Malaysian communities, were subjected to DNA amplification and sequencing targeting three genetic loci (tpi, gdh, and bg). The tpi sequences together with sequences from the global data obtained from the NCBI GenBank were used for genetic diversity analyses including identification of haplotypes, haplotype diversity, nucleotide diversity, Tajima’s D and Fu and Li’s D, gene flow and genetic differentiation tests. Results Analysis of the Malaysian and global data showed that assemblages A, B, and E (the most prevalent assemblages in humans and animals), have different levels of genetic diversity. Assemblage B had the highest level of both haplotype diversity and nucleotide diversity, followed by assemblage E. The analysis also revealed population expansion and high gene flow in all assemblages. No clear genetic structure was observed across five continents (i.e., the Americas, Europe, Asia, Australia and Africa). However, median joining network of assemblage B formed a cluster that was exclusively isolated from Asia while other haplotypes were well dispersed across the continents. Conclusions This study provides new insight into the genetic diversity of Giardia assemblages in different geographical regions. The significant result shown by gene flow and genetic differentiation analyses as well as test of neutrality among the populations should have brought a clearer picture to the dynamics and distribution of Giardia infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seow Huey Choy
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, 50603, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
| | - Mohammed A K Mahdy
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Science, Sana'a University, Sana'a, Yemen. .,Tropical Disease Research Center, University of Science and Technology, Sana'a, Yemen.
| | - Hesham M Al-Mekhlafi
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, 50603, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. .,Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Science, Sana'a University, Sana'a, Yemen.
| | - Van Lun Low
- Institute of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Malaya, 50603, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
| | - Johari Surin
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, 50603, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
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Havird JC, Hall MD, Dowling DK. The evolution of sex: A new hypothesis based on mitochondrial mutational erosion: Mitochondrial mutational erosion in ancestral eukaryotes would favor the evolution of sex, harnessing nuclear recombination to optimize compensatory nuclear coadaptation. Bioessays 2015. [PMID: 26201475 DOI: 10.1002/bies.201500057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
The evolution of sex in eukaryotes represents a paradox, given the "twofold" fitness cost it incurs. We hypothesize that the mutational dynamics of the mitochondrial genome would have favored the evolution of sexual reproduction. Mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) exhibits a high-mutation rate across most eukaryote taxa, and several lines of evidence suggest that this high rate is an ancestral character. This seems inexplicable given that mtDNA-encoded genes underlie the expression of life's most salient functions, including energy conversion. We propose that negative metabolic effects linked to mitochondrial mutation accumulation would have invoked selection for sexual recombination between divergent host nuclear genomes in early eukaryote lineages. This would provide a mechanism by which recombinant host genotypes could be rapidly shuffled and screened for the presence of compensatory modifiers that offset mtDNA-induced harm. Under this hypothesis, recombination provides the genetic variation necessary for compensatory nuclear coadaptation to keep pace with mitochondrial mutation accumulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Justin C Havird
- Deptartment of Biological Sciences, Auburn University, Auburn, AL, USA.,Department of Biology, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, USA
| | - Matthew D Hall
- School of Biological Sciences, Monash University, Victoria, Australia
| | - Damian K Dowling
- School of Biological Sciences, Monash University, Victoria, Australia
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Speijer D, Lukeš J, Eliáš M. Sex is a ubiquitous, ancient, and inherent attribute of eukaryotic life. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2015; 112:8827-34. [PMID: 26195746 PMCID: PMC4517231 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1501725112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 198] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Sexual reproduction and clonality in eukaryotes are mostly seen as exclusive, the latter being rather exceptional. This view might be biased by focusing almost exclusively on metazoans. We analyze and discuss reproduction in the context of extant eukaryotic diversity, paying special attention to protists. We present results of phylogenetically extended searches for homologs of two proteins functioning in cell and nuclear fusion, respectively (HAP2 and GEX1), providing indirect evidence for these processes in several eukaryotic lineages where sex has not been observed yet. We argue that (i) the debate on the relative significance of sex and clonality in eukaryotes is confounded by not appropriately distinguishing multicellular and unicellular organisms; (ii) eukaryotic sex is extremely widespread and already present in the last eukaryotic common ancestor; and (iii) the general mode of existence of eukaryotes is best described by clonally propagating cell lines with episodic sex triggered by external or internal clues. However, important questions concern the relative longevity of true clonal species (i.e., species not able to return to sexual procreation anymore). Long-lived clonal species seem strikingly rare. We analyze their properties in the light of meiotic sex development from existing prokaryotic repair mechanisms. Based on these considerations, we speculate that eukaryotic sex likely developed as a cellular survival strategy, possibly in the context of internal reactive oxygen species stress generated by a (proto) mitochondrion. Thus, in the context of the symbiogenic model of eukaryotic origin, sex might directly result from the very evolutionary mode by which eukaryotic cells arose.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dave Speijer
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, 1105 AZ, Amsterdam, The Netherlands;
| | - Julius Lukeš
- Institute of Parasitology, Biology Centre, Czech Academy of Sciences, and Faculty of Sciences, University of South Bohemia, 370 05 České Budějovice, Czech Republic; Canadian Institute for Advanced Research, Toronto, ON, Canada M5G 1Z8
| | - Marek Eliáš
- Department of Biology and Ecology, University of Ostrava, 710 00 Ostrava, Czech Republic
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Flecha MJ, Benavides CM, Tissiano G, Tesfamariam A, Cuadros J, de Lucio A, Bailo B, Cano L, Fuentes I, Carmena D. Detection and molecular characterisation of Giardia duodenalis, Cryptosporidium spp. and Entamoeba spp. among patients with gastrointestinal symptoms in Gambo Hospital, Oromia Region, southern Ethiopia. Trop Med Int Health 2015; 20:1213-1222. [PMID: 25939247 DOI: 10.1111/tmi.12535] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To assess the prevalence and genetic diversity of the enteric protozoa species G. duodenalis, Cryptosporidium spp. and Entamoeba histolytica in individuals with gastrointestinal symptoms compatible with infections by these pathogens seeking medical attention in a rural area in southern Ethiopia. METHODS A total of 92 stool samples were initially screened by direct microscopy and immunochromatography and further confirmed by molecular methods. G. duodenalis-positive samples were molecularly characterised by multilocus genotyping of the glutamate dehydrogenase and β-giardin genes of the parasite. PCR and DNA sequence analysis of the gene encoding the 60-kDa glycoprotein was used for the subtyping of Cryptosporidium isolates. Detection and differential diagnosis of E. histolytica/dispar were conducted by real-time PCR. RESULTS PCR-based prevalences were 10.9% for G. duodenalis, 1.1% for Cryptosporidium spp. and 3.3% for Entamoeba spp. Seven (four novel and three known) subtypes of G. duodenalis assemblage B were identified at the GDH locus and 5 (one novel and four known) at the BG locus. A novel variant of C. hominis subtype IbA9G3 was also identified. Two Entamoeba isolates were assigned to E. dispar and an additional one to E. histolytica. CONCLUSION Although preliminary, our results strongly suggest that giardiasis, cryptosporidiosis and amoebiasis represent a significant burden in Ethiopian rural population.
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Affiliation(s)
- María J Flecha
- Hospital Príncipe de Asturias, Alcalá de Henares, Madrid, Spain
| | | | | | | | - Juan Cuadros
- Hospital Príncipe de Asturias, Alcalá de Henares, Madrid, Spain
| | - Aida de Lucio
- Centro Nacional de Microbiología, Majadahonda, Madrid, Spain
| | - Begoña Bailo
- Centro Nacional de Microbiología, Majadahonda, Madrid, Spain
| | - Lourdes Cano
- Centro Nacional de Microbiología, Majadahonda, Madrid, Spain
| | - Isabel Fuentes
- Centro Nacional de Microbiología, Majadahonda, Madrid, Spain
| | - David Carmena
- Centro Nacional de Microbiología, Majadahonda, Madrid, Spain
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MR (Mre11-Rad50) complex in Giardia duodenalis: In vitro characterization and its response upon DNA damage. Biochimie 2015; 111:45-57. [DOI: 10.1016/j.biochi.2015.01.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2014] [Accepted: 01/17/2015] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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Sommer MF, Beck R, Ionita M, Stefanovska J, Vasić A, Zdravković N, Hamel D, Rehbein S, Knaus M, Mitrea IL, Shukullari E, Kirkova Z, Rapti D, Capári B, Silaghi C. Multilocus sequence typing of canine Giardia duodenalis from South Eastern European countries. Parasitol Res 2015; 114:2165-74. [PMID: 25804971 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-015-4405-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2015] [Accepted: 02/27/2015] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Giardia duodenalis is a worldwide occurring protozoan that can infect various mammalian hosts. While living conditions are getting closer between pet animals and owners, there is discussion whether dogs may contribute to the transmission of these pathogens to humans. The present study was conducted in order to identify the Giardia assemblages in dogs from South Eastern Europe. For this purpose, 1645 faecal samples of household and shelter dogs from Albania, Bulgaria, Hungary, Macedonia, Romania and Serbia were tested for Giardia coproantigen by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). A subset of 107 faecal samples demonstrating Giardia cysts by direct immunofluorescence assay (IFA) or microscopy (15-22 per country) plus 26 IFA-positive canine faecal samples from Croatia were used for DNA extraction and multilocus sequence typing with nested PCRs targeting five different gene loci: SSU rRNA, ITS1-5.8S-ITS2, beta giardin (bg), glutamate dehydrogenase (gdh) and triosephosphate isomerase (tpi). One third (33.7%) of the samples tested positive for Giardia antigen in the coproantigen ELISA. Shelter dogs were infected more frequently than household dogs (57.2 vs. 29.7%, p < 0.01). Amplification was obtained in 82.0, 12.8, 11.3, 1.5, and 31.6%, of the investigated samples at the SSU rRNA, bg, gdh and tpi loci and the ITS1-5.8S-ITS2 region, respectively. The dog-specific assemblages C and D were identified in 50 and 68 samples, respectively. The results demonstrate that G. duodenalis should be considered as a common parasite in dogs from South Eastern Europe. However, there was no evidence for zoonotic Giardia assemblages in the investigated canine subpopulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- M F Sommer
- Institute of Comparative Tropical Medicine and Parasitology, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität, Munich, Leopoldstr. 5 80802, München, Germany,
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Abstract
A key part of the life cycle of an organism is reproduction. For a number of important protist parasites that cause human and animal disease, their sexuality has been a topic of debate for many years. Traditionally, protists were considered to be primitive relatives of the ‘higher’ eukaryotes, which may have diverged prior to the evolution of sex and to reproduce by binary fission. More recent views of eukaryotic evolution suggest that sex, and meiosis, evolved early, possibly in the common ancestor of all eukaryotes. However, detecting sex in these parasites is not straightforward. Recent advances, particularly in genome sequencing technology, have allowed new insights into parasite reproduction. Here, we review the evidence on reproduction in parasitic protists. We discuss protist reproduction in the light of parasitic life cycles and routes of transmission among hosts.
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Hupalo DN, Bradic M, Carlton JM. The impact of genomics on population genetics of parasitic diseases. Curr Opin Microbiol 2014; 23:49-54. [PMID: 25461572 DOI: 10.1016/j.mib.2014.11.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2014] [Revised: 10/30/2014] [Accepted: 11/03/2014] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
Parasites, defined as eukaryotic microbes and parasitic worms that cause global diseases of human and veterinary importance, span many lineages in the eukaryotic Tree of Life. Historically challenging to study due to their complicated life-cycles and association with impoverished settings, their inherent complexities are now being elucidated by genome sequencing. Over the course of the last decade, projects in large sequencing centers, and increasingly frequently in individual research labs, have sequenced dozens of parasite reference genomes and field isolates from patient populations. This 'tsunami' of genomic data is answering questions about parasite genetic diversity, signatures of evolution orchestrated through anti-parasitic drug and host immune pressure, and the characteristics of populations. This brief review focuses on the state of the art of parasitic protist genomics, how the peculiar genomes of parasites are driving creative methods for their sequencing, and the impact that next-generation sequencing is having on our understanding of parasite population genomics and control of the diseases they cause.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel N Hupalo
- Center for Genomics and Systems Biology, Department of Biology, New York University, 12 Waverly Place, New York, NY 10003, United States
| | - Martina Bradic
- Center for Genomics and Systems Biology, Department of Biology, New York University, 12 Waverly Place, New York, NY 10003, United States
| | - Jane M Carlton
- Center for Genomics and Systems Biology, Department of Biology, New York University, 12 Waverly Place, New York, NY 10003, United States.
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