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Bulumulla S, Xiao L, Feng Y, Ash A, Ryan U, Barbosa AD. Update on transmission of zoonotic Giardia in cattle. Trends Parasitol 2025; 41:210-221. [PMID: 39893145 DOI: 10.1016/j.pt.2025.01.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2024] [Revised: 01/07/2025] [Accepted: 01/08/2025] [Indexed: 02/04/2025]
Abstract
Giardia is the most common protozoan cause of diarrhoeal illness in humans worldwide. Despite this, our understanding of the zoonotic transmission of Giardia, and in particular the role of cattle as a zoonotic reservoir, is not well understood, due to the limitations of current typing systems and a recent taxonomic revision of the genus. Newly improved multilocus sequencing typing tools are not yet widely used and are not applicable to all species. However, data generated to date suggest that zoonotic transmission of Giardia of bovine origin is limited. Carefully designed epidemiological investigations using improved typing tools are essential to understand the extent of zoonotic transmission from cattle. Improved on-farm biosecurity measures are also needed to control the transmission of zoonotic Giardia in cattle.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sugandika Bulumulla
- Harry Butler Institute, College of Environmental and Life Sciences, Murdoch University, Murdoch, Western Australia 6150, Australia.
| | - Lihua Xiao
- Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Diseases, College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Yaoyu Feng
- Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Diseases, College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Amanda Ash
- Harry Butler Institute, College of Environmental and Life Sciences, Murdoch University, Murdoch, Western Australia 6150, Australia
| | - Una Ryan
- Harry Butler Institute, College of Environmental and Life Sciences, Murdoch University, Murdoch, Western Australia 6150, Australia
| | - Amanda D Barbosa
- Harry Butler Institute, College of Environmental and Life Sciences, Murdoch University, Murdoch, Western Australia 6150, Australia; CAPES Foundation, Ministry of Education of Brazil, Brasilia, DF 70040-020, Brazil
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Zhao L, Fan W, Yi C, Liu HX, Ding Y, Wang M, Wang Y, Zhang S, Su X, Liu Y. Prevalence and Molecular Characterization of Cryptosporidium spp., Giardia duodenalis and Enterocytozoon bieneusi in Donkeys of Inner Mongolia, Northern China. Acta Parasitol 2025; 70:20. [PMID: 39838230 DOI: 10.1007/s11686-024-00965-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2024] [Accepted: 11/13/2024] [Indexed: 01/23/2025]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cryptosporidium spp., Giardia duodenalis, and Enterocytozoon bieneusi are important zoonotic pathogens. In Inner Mongolia, a single pathogen molecular epidemiological survey of these three protozoa was previously conducted on only 176 fecal samples donkeys. In this study, the purpose is to simultaneously evaluate the zoonotic potential of three protozoa. METHODS Small subunit ribosomal RNA (SSU rRNA) and gp60 from Cryptosporidium; SSU rRNA, gdh, tpi, and bg from G. duodenalis; and ITS of E. bieneusi were analyzed in 300 fecal samples collected from donkeys from two intensive farms in Inner Mongolia in 2022. Sample processing, nucleic acid extraction, polymerase chain reaction, sequencing, and sequence analysis were performed to determine the prevalence and genetic characteristics of the protozoans. RESULTS Our results revealed that 75.33% (226/300) of the samples were infected with at least one protozoan, whereas 2.33% (7/300) were simultaneously infected with all three genera. Mixed infection was observed in 20.67% (62/300; Cryptosporidium + G. duodenalis), 5.33% (16/300; Cryptosporidium + E. bieneusis), and 5.67% (17/300; G. duodenalis + E. bieneusis) of the samples. Overall prevalence of Cryptosporidium, G. duodenalis, and E. bieneusi was 56.33% (169/300), 36.33% (109/300), and 13.33% (40/300), respectively. Five Cryptosporidium species were identified, with C. andersoni being the predominant species. The C. parvum subtypes identified were IIdA20G1 (66.67%) and IIdA19G1 (33.33%). Three G. duodenalis assemblages were identified, with assemblage B being predominant. Seven isolates formed two different assemblage B MLGs, two different assemblage A MLGs, and two different assemblage B + E MLGs. Three known and eight novel sequences of E. bieneusis were identified in group 1 (including horse1 and NMG6-NMG8) and group 2 (including J, BEB6, and NMG1-NMG5), with horse1 being the predominant genotype. CONCLUSIONS To our knowledge, this is the first study to demonstrate that donkeys can be infected with a combination of two or three protozoa, with C. andersoni being the most detected Cryptosporidium species. Meanwhile, assemblage B was predominant among G. duodenalis, whereas horse1 was the dominant genotype for E. bieneusi. Moreover, the prevalence of C. bovis, C. ryanae, C. suis, C. parvum subtype IIdA20G1 and eight novel sequences of E. bieneusis and new features of G. duodenalis assemblages were identified in donkeys for the first time. These findings reconfirmed that donkeys in Inner Mongolia are infected with these three protozoa, emphasizing the risk of disease transmission by these protozoans to humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Zhao
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot, China
- Key Laboratory of Clinical Diagnosis and Treatment Technology in Animal Disease, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Hohhot, China
| | - Wenjun Fan
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot, China
| | - Chao Yi
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot, China
| | - Hai-Xia Liu
- Inner Mongolia Huazhiding Testing Technology Co. Ltd., Baotou, China
| | - Yulin Ding
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot, China
- Key Laboratory of Clinical Diagnosis and Treatment Technology in Animal Disease, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Hohhot, China
- Inner Mongolia National Center of Technology Innovation for Dairy Co. Ltd., Hohhot, China
| | - Mingyuan Wang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot, China
| | - Yan Wang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot, China
| | - Shan Zhang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot, China
| | - Xuewen Su
- Department of Pediatrics, People's Hospital of Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, Hohhot, China.
| | - Yonghong Liu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot, China.
- Key Laboratory of Clinical Diagnosis and Treatment Technology in Animal Disease, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Hohhot, China.
- Inner Mongolia National Center of Technology Innovation for Dairy Co. Ltd., Hohhot, China.
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Kanski S, Busch K, Hailmann R, Weber K. Performance of the Vetscan Imagyst in point-of-care detection of Giardia duodenalis in canine fecal samples. J Vet Diagn Invest 2025; 37:63-70. [PMID: 39267440 PMCID: PMC11559838 DOI: 10.1177/10406387241279177] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/17/2024] Open
Abstract
Giardia duodenalis is a common parasite of the gastrointestinal tract of dogs, with an especially high prevalence in dogs <1-y-old. Methods for detecting G. duodenalis are point-of-care (POC) tests such as lateral-flow tests or fecal flotation. The Vetscan Imagyst (Zoetis) is a new POC device for the detection of G. duodenalis in fecal samples using zinc sulfate flotation, automated slide scanning, and image recognition with artificial intelligence. Vetscan results are the number of Giardia cysts per coverslip. We compared the performance of the Vetscan and another POC test (SNAP Giardia test; Idexx) with a direct immunofluorescence assay (IFA) performed in a specialized parasitology laboratory as the reference test. We included 164 dogs <19-mo-old. We used pooled fecal samples from 3 defecations gained within 2-3 d and tested the repeatability of the Vetscan by triplicate measurement. Compared to IFA, Vetscan had a diagnostic sensitivity of 88.4% and specificity of 98.1%; SNAP had a diagnostic sensitivity of 74.4% and specificity of 98.1%. A variation coefficient of 67.0% was determined for the Vetscan results. The performance of the Vetscan is acceptable for the qualitative evaluation of fecal samples (Giardia positive or negative), and the device can be used by untrained personnel. Given its high variation coefficient, we do not recommend the Vetscan for monitoring the number of cysts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sabrina Kanski
- Small Animal Clinic, Centre for Clinical Veterinary Medicine, Ludwig-Maximilians-University, Munich, Germany
| | - Kathrin Busch
- Small Animal Clinic, Centre for Clinical Veterinary Medicine, Ludwig-Maximilians-University, Munich, Germany
| | - Regina Hailmann
- Small Animal Clinic, Centre for Clinical Veterinary Medicine, Ludwig-Maximilians-University, Munich, Germany
| | - Karin Weber
- Small Animal Clinic, Centre for Clinical Veterinary Medicine, Ludwig-Maximilians-University, Munich, Germany
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Seabolt MH, Alderisio KA, Xiao L, Roellig DM. Enumerating genotypic diversity and host specificity of G iardia in wild rodents around a New York watershed. Int J Parasitol Parasites Wildl 2024; 25:100995. [PMID: 39385812 PMCID: PMC11462367 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijppaw.2024.100995] [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: 06/12/2024] [Revised: 09/15/2024] [Accepted: 09/18/2024] [Indexed: 10/12/2024]
Abstract
Giardia is a genus of flagellated protozoans that parasitize the gastrointestinal tract of humans and wildlife worldwide. While G. duodenalis is well-studied due to its potential to cause outbreaks of diarrheal illness in humans, other Giardia species from wildlife have been largely understudied. This study examines the occurrence, host specificity, and genotypic diversity of Giardia in wild rodents living within the New York City water supply watershed. A novel nested PCR assay targeting the 18S ssu-rDNA gene is introduced, which captures nearly the entire gene for improved species-level determination versus existing molecular typing methods. Molecular characterization of 55 Giardia specimens reveals at least seven novel lineages. Phylogenetic analysis indicates a close relationship between the newly characterized Giardia lineages and rodent hosts, suggesting rodents as important reservoirs of Giardia and its close relatives. These findings provide insights into the diversity of Giardia species and their public health potential in localities with human-wildlife interaction and further emphasizes the need for continued efforts to improve the molecular tools used to study microbial eukaryotes, especially those with zoonotic potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew H. Seabolt
- Division of Foodborne, Waterborne, and Environmental Diseases, National Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Infectious Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, 30329, USA
| | - Kerri A. Alderisio
- Water Quality and Innovation, Bureau of Water Supply, New York City Department of Environmental Protection, Valhalla, NY, 10595, USA
| | - Lihua Xiao
- Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Diseases, College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, 510642, Guangdong, China
- Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510642, China
| | - Dawn M. Roellig
- Division of Foodborne, Waterborne, and Environmental Diseases, National Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Infectious Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, 30329, USA
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Wang T, Zhang Z, Qiao F, Yu F, Jing B, Li J, Qi M. Prevalence and genetic diversity of Giardia duodenalis in sheep from large-scale farms in Southern Xinjiang, China. Acta Trop 2024; 260:107428. [PMID: 39393478 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2024.107428] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2024] [Revised: 10/07/2024] [Accepted: 10/08/2024] [Indexed: 10/13/2024]
Abstract
Giardia duodenalis is a significant zoonotic parasite. In this study, 767 fresh fecal samples were collected randomly from six large-scale sheep farms in Southern Xinjiang, China. Initially, G. duodenalis was screened using PCR at the SSU rRNA gene. Positive samples then underwent PCR amplification at the bg, gdh, and tpi genes. The prevalence of G. duodenalis in sheep was 17.5% (134/767), with the highest prevalence observed in the 3-6 months age group at 26.8% (56/209) and the lowest in the over 12 months age group at 6.8% (14/205). Among the 134 positive samples, only Assemblage E was identified. A total of 106, 92, and 98 sequences of G. duodenalis were obtained at the gdh, tpi, and bg genes, respectively. Fourteen isolates of G. duodenalis were successfully amplified at all three genes, resulting in nine G. duodenalis multilocus genotypes (MLG) named MLG E1-MLG E14, indicating high genetic diversity. In conclusion, G. duodenalis infection in sheep from large-scale farms is common in Southern Xinjiang, China, showing geographical regional distributions and genetic diversity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tian Wang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Tarim University, Alar, Xinjiang 843300, China; Engineering Laboratory of Tarim Animal Diseases Diagnosis and Control, Xinjiang Production & Construction Corps, Alar, Xinjiang 843300, China; Key Laboratory of Livestock and Forage Resources Utilization around Tarim, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Alar, Xinjiang 843300, China
| | - Zhenjie Zhang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Tarim University, Alar, Xinjiang 843300, China; Engineering Laboratory of Tarim Animal Diseases Diagnosis and Control, Xinjiang Production & Construction Corps, Alar, Xinjiang 843300, China; Key Laboratory of Livestock and Forage Resources Utilization around Tarim, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Alar, Xinjiang 843300, China
| | - Fei Qiao
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Tarim University, Alar, Xinjiang 843300, China; Engineering Laboratory of Tarim Animal Diseases Diagnosis and Control, Xinjiang Production & Construction Corps, Alar, Xinjiang 843300, China
| | - Fuchang Yu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Tarim University, Alar, Xinjiang 843300, China; Engineering Laboratory of Tarim Animal Diseases Diagnosis and Control, Xinjiang Production & Construction Corps, Alar, Xinjiang 843300, China; Key Laboratory of Livestock and Forage Resources Utilization around Tarim, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Alar, Xinjiang 843300, China
| | - Bo Jing
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Tarim University, Alar, Xinjiang 843300, China; Engineering Laboratory of Tarim Animal Diseases Diagnosis and Control, Xinjiang Production & Construction Corps, Alar, Xinjiang 843300, China; Key Laboratory of Livestock and Forage Resources Utilization around Tarim, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Alar, Xinjiang 843300, China
| | - Junqiang Li
- Engineering Laboratory of Tarim Animal Diseases Diagnosis and Control, Xinjiang Production & Construction Corps, Alar, Xinjiang 843300, China; College of Veterinary Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, Henan 450046, China.
| | - Meng Qi
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Tarim University, Alar, Xinjiang 843300, China; Engineering Laboratory of Tarim Animal Diseases Diagnosis and Control, Xinjiang Production & Construction Corps, Alar, Xinjiang 843300, China; Key Laboratory of Livestock and Forage Resources Utilization around Tarim, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Alar, Xinjiang 843300, China.
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Mu X, Guo J, Wang H, Li Y, Yuan K, Xu H, Zeng W, Li Q, Yu X, Hong Y. Establishment and preliminary application of PCR-RFLP genotyping method for Giardia duodenalis in goats. BMC Vet Res 2024; 20:527. [PMID: 39593122 PMCID: PMC11590275 DOI: 10.1186/s12917-024-04386-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2024] [Accepted: 11/15/2024] [Indexed: 11/28/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Giardia duodenalis (G. duodenalis) is a globally distributed zoonotic protozoan that parasitizes the small intestines of humans and various mammals, such as goats and sheep. The objective of this study was to establish a convenient, accurate, and specific method based on restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) for genotyping assemblages A, B and E of G. duodenalis in goats. The β-giardin gene was amplified using primer pairs bgF1, bgR1, bgF2 and bgR2 by nested PCR. The PCR products were digested with the restriction enzymes Hinf I and Bgl I. The established PCR-RFLP method was used to detect and analyze the genetic subtypes of G. duodenalis in 130 fecal samples from goats and compared simultaneously with microscopic examination and nucleic acid sequencing for G. duodenalis. RESULTS Genetic sequencing confirmed that the PCR-RFLP method accurately distinguished G. duodenalis assemblages A, B and E, as well as different combinations of mixed infections of these three assemblages. Among the 130 samples tested by PCR-RFLP, a total of 26 samples (20.00%) tested positive for G. duodenalis, a higher sensitivity than microscopic examination at 13.85% (18/130). Sequence alignment analysis revealed that among the 26 PCR-positive samples, two were identified as assemblage AI, while the remaining 24 were identified as assemblage E or E12. CONCLUSIONS This study established an accurate, efficient and rapid PCR-RFLP genotyping method using the bg sequence of G. duodenalis, enabling accurate identification and effective differentiation of goat-derived G. duodenalis assemblages without requiring sequencing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuanru Mu
- School of Animal Science and Technology, Foshan University, Foshan, 528231, China
| | - Jianchao Guo
- Agro-Tech Extension Center of Guangdong Province, Guangzhou, 510500, China
| | - Hongcai Wang
- School of Animal Science and Technology, Foshan University, Foshan, 528231, China
| | - Yilong Li
- School of Animal Science and Technology, Foshan University, Foshan, 528231, China
| | - Kaijian Yuan
- School of Animal Science and Technology, Foshan University, Foshan, 528231, China
| | - Hui Xu
- School of Animal Science and Technology, Foshan University, Foshan, 528231, China
| | - Wenjing Zeng
- School of Animal Science and Technology, Foshan University, Foshan, 528231, China
| | - Qiaoyu Li
- School of Animal Science and Technology, Foshan University, Foshan, 528231, China
| | - Xingang Yu
- School of Animal Science and Technology, Foshan University, Foshan, 528231, China.
| | - Yang Hong
- National Key Laboratory of Intelligent Tracking and Forecasting for Infectious Diseases, Key Laboratory of Parasite and Vector Biology, Collaborating Center for Tropical Diseases, National Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Chinese Center for Diseases Control and Prevention (Chinese Center for Tropical Diseases Research), National Health Commission of the People's Republic of China (NHC), World Health Organization (WHO), National Center for International Research on Tropical Diseases, Shanghai, 200025, China.
- Hainan Tropical Diseases Research Center (Hainan Sub-Center, Chinese Center for Tropical Diseases Research), Haikou, 571199, China.
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Castañeda S, Acosta CP, Vasquez-A LR, Patiño LH, Mejía R, Ramírez JD. Molecular detection of intestinal parasites in a rural community of Colombia: A one health approach to explore potential environmental-zoonotic transmission. Zoonoses Public Health 2024; 71:723-735. [PMID: 38688683 DOI: 10.1111/zph.13138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2024] [Revised: 04/10/2024] [Accepted: 04/18/2024] [Indexed: 05/02/2024]
Abstract
AIMS Protozoan and helminth parasitic infections pose significant public health challenges, especially in developing countries with rural populations marked by suboptimal hygiene practices and socio-economic constraints. The parasites are the etiological agents of these infections and have a notably elevated global prevalence. Therefore, this study focuses on estimating the frequency and transmission dynamics of several parasitic species, including Blastocystis, Giardia, Cryptosporidium spp., Entamoeba histolytica, Ascaris lumbricoides, Trichuris trichiura, Taenia spp. and hookworms, within a rural community in southwest Colombia with a particular emphasis on the One Health framework, considering environmental and zoonotic transmission potentials. METHODS AND RESULTS This study involved the analysis of 125 samples, encompassing human participants (n = 99), their domestic pets (dogs) (n = 24) and water sources (n = 2). Parasite detection was carried out utilizing a combination of microscopy and molecular techniques. Furthermore, the characterization of Blastocystis subtypes (STs) was achieved through Oxford Nanopore sequencing of the rRNA-18S gene. The investigation also entailed the examination of potential associations between intestinal parasitism and various sociodemographic factors. Results revealed a high frequency of parasitic infections when employing molecular methods, with Blastocystis (n = 109/87%), Giardia (n = 20/16%), Ancylostoma duodenale (n = 28/22%), Ancylostoma ceylanicum (n = 7/5.6%), E. histolytica (n = 6/4.8%), Cryptosporidium spp. (n = 12/9.6%) and even Taenia (n = 1/0.8%) detected. Cryptosporidium spp. was also identified in water samples. Coinfections were prevalent, with 57% (n = 70) of samples exhibiting single-parasite infections and 43% (n = 53) showing various degrees of polyparasitism, emphasizing the complexity of transmission dynamics. Blastocystis subtyping, conducted via Oxford Nanopore sequencing, revealed a diversity of subtypes and coexistence patterns, with ST2 being the most prevalent. CONCLUSIONS This research underscores the importance of using molecular techniques for frequency estimation, particularly emphasizing the relevance of zoonotic transmission in parasitic infections. It highlights the significance of the One Health approach in comprehending the circulation of parasites among animals, humans and environmental sources, thereby directly impacting public health and epidemiological surveillance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sergio Castañeda
- Centro de Investigaciones en Microbiología y Biotecnología-UR (CIMBIUR), Facultad de Ciencias Naturales, Universidad del Rosario, Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Claudia Patricia Acosta
- Grupo de investigación en Genética Humana, Departamento de Ciencias Fisiológicas, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad del Cauca, Popayán, Colombia
| | - Luis Reinel Vasquez-A
- Centro de Estudios en Microbiología y Parasitología, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad del Cauca, Popayán, Colombia
| | - Luz H Patiño
- Centro de Investigaciones en Microbiología y Biotecnología-UR (CIMBIUR), Facultad de Ciencias Naturales, Universidad del Rosario, Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Rojelio Mejía
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Tropical Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Juan David Ramírez
- Centro de Investigaciones en Microbiología y Biotecnología-UR (CIMBIUR), Facultad de Ciencias Naturales, Universidad del Rosario, Bogotá, Colombia
- Molecular Microbiology Laboratory, Department of Pathology, Molecular and Cell-Based Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York city, New York, USA
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Korenková V, Weisz F, Perglerová A, Cacciò SM, Nohýnková E, Tůmová P. Comprehensive analysis of flavohemoprotein copy number variation in Giardia intestinalis: exploring links to metronidazole resistance. Parasit Vectors 2024; 17:336. [PMID: 39127700 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-024-06392-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2024] [Accepted: 07/03/2024] [Indexed: 08/12/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Giardiasis, caused by the protozoan parasite Giardia intestinalis, often presents a treatment challenge, particularly in terms of resistance to metronidazole. Despite extensive research, markers for metronidazole resistance have not yet been identified. METHODS This study analysed 28 clinical samples of G. intestinalis from sub-assemblage AII, characterised by varying responses to metronidazole treatment. We focussed on copy number variation (CNV) of the multi-copy flavohemoprotein gene, analysed using digital polymerase chain reaction (dPCR) and next generation sequencing (NGS). Additionally, chromosomal ploidy was tested in 18 of these samples. Flavohemoprotein CNV was also assessed in 17 samples from other sub-assemblages. RESULTS Analyses revealed variable CNVs of the flavohemoprotein gene among the isolates, with no correlation to clinical metronidazole resistance. Discrepancies in CNVs detected from NGS data were attributed to biases linked to the whole genome amplification. However, dPCR helped to clarify these discrepancies by providing more consistent CNV data. Significant differences in flavohemoprotein CNVs were observed across different G. intestinalis sub-assemblages. Notably, Giardia exhibits a propensity for aneuploidy, contributing to genomic variability within and between sub-assemblages. CONCLUSIONS The complexity of the clinical metronidazole resistance in Giardia is influenced by multiple genetic factors, including CNVs and aneuploidy. No significant differences in the CNV of the flavohemoprotein gene between isolates from metronidazole-resistant and metronidazole-sensitive cases of giardiasis were found, underscoring the need for further research to identify reliable genetic markers for resistance. We demonstrate that dPCR and NGS are robust methods for analysing CNVs and provide cross-validating results, highlighting their utility in the genetic analyses of this parasite.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vlasta Korenková
- Institute of Immunology and Microbiology, 1st Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic.
| | - Filip Weisz
- Institute of Immunology and Microbiology, 1st Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Aneta Perglerová
- Institute of Immunology and Microbiology, 1st Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Simone M Cacciò
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Istituto Superiore Di Sanita, Rome, Italy
| | - Eva Nohýnková
- Institute of Immunology and Microbiology, 1st Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Pavla Tůmová
- Institute of Immunology and Microbiology, 1st Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic
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Esteban-Sánchez L, García-Rodríguez JJ, García-García J, Martínez-Nevado E, de la Riva-Fraga MA, Ponce-Gordo F. Wild Animals in Captivity: An Analysis of Parasite Biodiversity and Transmission among Animals at Two Zoological Institutions with Different Typologies. Animals (Basel) 2024; 14:813. [PMID: 38473198 DOI: 10.3390/ani14050813] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2024] [Revised: 03/01/2024] [Accepted: 03/04/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
We have conducted a 10-year-long coprological study of the animals housed in two zoological institutions (ZooAquarium and Faunia, Madrid, Spain) to assess the parasite biodiversity, prevalence, and their relation with host class, diet, and enclosure type (soil type and level of isolation from wild fauna). A total of 4476 faecal samples from 132 mammal species and 951 samples from 86 avian species were examined. The results indicated that only 12.8% of avian species had parasites at least once during the study period, whereas 62.1% of mammal species tested positive. Predominantly, protists (Entamoeba, flagellates, and ciliates) and nematodes (mainly Trichuris) were identified in the findings. Carnivorous species were primarily infected by nematodes, while herbivorous and omnivorous species were mainly infected by protists. The number of infected herbivorous and omnivorous species was significantly greater than carnivorous species. Differences were observed based on soil type (artificial, natural, mixed) and isolation level (isolated/accessible), but these differences were not statistically significant. Several parasites (Entamoeba spp., Giardia spp., Balantidoides coli, Trichuris spp.) could potentially be transmitted between humans and some mammals and birds. Regular animal analyses and a personnel health program in the institutions would minimise transmission risks between zoo animals, wildlife, and humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lorena Esteban-Sánchez
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Complutense University, Plaza Ramón y Cajal s/n, 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - Juan José García-Rodríguez
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Complutense University, Plaza Ramón y Cajal s/n, 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - Juncal García-García
- Veterinary Department, ZooAquarium de Madrid, Casa de Campo s/n, 28011 Madrid, Spain
| | - Eva Martínez-Nevado
- Veterinary Department, ZooAquarium de Madrid, Casa de Campo s/n, 28011 Madrid, Spain
| | | | - Francisco Ponce-Gordo
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Complutense University, Plaza Ramón y Cajal s/n, 28040 Madrid, Spain
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Pipaliya SV, Dacks JB, Croxen MA. Genomic survey maps differences in the molecular complement of vesicle formation machinery between Giardia intestinalis assemblages. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2023; 17:e0011837. [PMID: 38109380 PMCID: PMC10758263 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0011837] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2023] [Revised: 01/01/2024] [Accepted: 12/04/2023] [Indexed: 12/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Giardia intestinalis is a globally important microbial pathogen with considerable public health, agricultural, and economic burden. Genome sequencing and comparative analyses have elucidated G. intestinalis to be a taxonomically diverse species consisting of at least eight different sub-types (assemblages A-H) that can infect a great variety of animal hosts, including humans. The best studied of these are assemblages A and B which have a broad host range and have zoonotic transmissibility towards humans where clinical Giardiasis can range from asymptomatic to diarrheal disease. Epidemiological surveys as well as previous molecular investigations have pointed towards critical genomic level differences within numerous molecular pathways and families of parasite virulence factors within assemblage A and B isolates. In this study, we explored the necessary machinery for the formation of vesicles and cargo transport in 89 Canadian isolates of assemblage A and B G. intestinalis. Considerable variability within the molecular complement of the endolysosomal ESCRT protein machinery, adaptor coat protein complexes, and ARF regulatory system have previously been reported. Here, we confirm inter-assemblage, but find no intra-assemblage variation within the trafficking systems examined. This variation includes losses of subunits belonging to the ESCRTIII as well as novel lineage specific duplications in components of the COPII machinery, ARF1, and ARFGEF families (BIG and CYTH). Since differences in disease manifestation between assemblages A and B have been controversially reported, our findings may well have clinical implications and even taxonomic, as the membrane trafficking system underpin parasite survival, pathogenesis, and propagation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shweta V. Pipaliya
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
| | - Joel B. Dacks
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
- Institute of Parasitology, Biology Centre, Czech Academy of Sciences, České Budějovice [Budweis], Czech Republic
| | - Matthew A. Croxen
- Division of Diagnostic and Applied Microbiology, Department of Lab Medicine and Pathology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
- Li Ka Shing Institute of Virology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
- Women and Children’s Health Research Institute, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
- Alberta Precision Laboratories, Alberta Public Health Laboratory, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
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Brožová K, Jirků M, Lhotská Z, Květoňová D, Kadlecová O, Stensvold CR, Samaš P, Petrželková KJ, Jirků K. The opportunistic protist, Giardia intestinalis, occurs in gut-healthy humans in a high-income country. Emerg Microbes Infect 2023; 12:2270077. [PMID: 37815802 PMCID: PMC10614719 DOI: 10.1080/22221751.2023.2270077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2023] [Accepted: 10/05/2023] [Indexed: 10/11/2023]
Abstract
Giardia intestinalis, a cosmopolitan gastrointestinal protist, is detected mainly in patients with clinical giardiasis in high-income countries. In contrast, there is very little information on the presence of Giardia in asymptomatic individuals. Therefore, the aim of this study was to determine the presence and prevalence of Giardia in gut-healthy volunteers in the Czech Republic and to perform a comparative evaluation of different diagnostic methods, since Giardia diagnostics is complicated. Our results confirmed that the qPCR method is the most sensitive method for detecting Giardia and revealed a prevalence of 7% (22/296) in asymptomatic individuals. In most cases, the colonization intensity ranged from 10-1-101. A conventional PCR protocol targeting the TPI gene was used to identify the assemblages. However, this protocol had limited sensitivity for Giardia amplification, effectively detecting colonization above an intensity of 104. In addition, Giardia was detected in 19% of the animals, which were closely associated with the study participants. However, due to methodological limitations, zoonotic transmission could not be clearly confirmed. Notably, contact with animals proved to be the only factor that had a significant impact on the incidence of Giardia in gut-healthy humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristýna Brožová
- Institute of Parasitology, Biology Centre, Czech Academy of Sciences, České Budějovice, Czech Republic
- Department of Medical Biology, Faculty of Science, University of South Bohemia, České Budějovice, Czech Republic
| | - Milan Jirků
- Institute of Parasitology, Biology Centre, Czech Academy of Sciences, České Budějovice, Czech Republic
| | - Zuzana Lhotská
- Institute of Parasitology, Biology Centre, Czech Academy of Sciences, České Budějovice, Czech Republic
- Department of Medical Biology, Faculty of Science, University of South Bohemia, České Budějovice, Czech Republic
| | - Dana Květoňová
- Institute of Parasitology, Biology Centre, Czech Academy of Sciences, České Budějovice, Czech Republic
| | - Oldřiška Kadlecová
- Institute of Parasitology, Biology Centre, Czech Academy of Sciences, České Budějovice, Czech Republic
| | | | - Peter Samaš
- Institute of Vertebrate Biology, Czech Academy of Sciences, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Klára J. Petrželková
- Institute of Parasitology, Biology Centre, Czech Academy of Sciences, České Budějovice, Czech Republic
- Institute of Vertebrate Biology, Czech Academy of Sciences, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Kateřina Jirků
- Institute of Parasitology, Biology Centre, Czech Academy of Sciences, České Budějovice, Czech Republic
- Department of Medical Biology, Faculty of Science, University of South Bohemia, České Budějovice, Czech Republic
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12
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Chang Y, Li J, Zhang L. Genetic diversity and molecular diagnosis of Giardia. INFECTION, GENETICS AND EVOLUTION : JOURNAL OF MOLECULAR EPIDEMIOLOGY AND EVOLUTIONARY GENETICS IN INFECTIOUS DISEASES 2023; 113:105482. [PMID: 37451417 DOI: 10.1016/j.meegid.2023.105482] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2023] [Revised: 07/03/2023] [Accepted: 07/11/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023]
Abstract
Giardia is a genus of flagellated protozoan parasites that infect the small intestine of humans and animals, causing the diarrheal illness known as giardiasis. Giardia exhibits significant genetic diversity among its isolates, which can have important implications for disease transmission and clinical presentation. This diversity is influenced by the coevolution of Giardia with its host, resulting in the development of unique genetic assemblages with distinct phenotypic characteristics. Although panmixia has not been observed, some assemblages appear to have a broader host range and exhibit higher transmission rates. Molecular diagnostic methods enable researchers to examine the genetic diversity of Giardia populations, enhancing our understanding of the genetic diversity, population structure, and transmission patterns of this pathogen and providing insights into clinical presentations of giardiasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yankai Chang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, Henan 450046, China; International Joint Research Laboratory for Zoonotic Diseases of Henan, Zhengzhou, Henan 450046, China; Key Laboratory of Quality and Safety Control of Poultry Products (Zhengzhou), Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Zhengzhou, Henan 450046, China
| | - Junqiang Li
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, Henan 450046, China; International Joint Research Laboratory for Zoonotic Diseases of Henan, Zhengzhou, Henan 450046, China; Key Laboratory of Quality and Safety Control of Poultry Products (Zhengzhou), Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Zhengzhou, Henan 450046, China
| | - Longxian Zhang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, Henan 450046, China; International Joint Research Laboratory for Zoonotic Diseases of Henan, Zhengzhou, Henan 450046, China; Key Laboratory of Quality and Safety Control of Poultry Products (Zhengzhou), Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Zhengzhou, Henan 450046, China.
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13
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Mitchell PD, Wang T, Billig Y, Gadot Y, Warnock P, Langgut D. Giardia duodenalis and dysentery in Iron Age Jerusalem (7th-6th century BCE). Parasitology 2023; 150:693-699. [PMID: 37231841 PMCID: PMC10410378 DOI: 10.1017/s0031182023000410] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2023] [Revised: 04/16/2023] [Accepted: 04/17/2023] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to determine if the protozoa that cause dysentery might have been present in Jerusalem, the capital of the Kingdom of Judah, during the Iron Age. Sediments from 2 latrines pertaining to this time period were obtained, 1 dating from the 7th century BCE and another from the 7th to early 6th century BCE. Microscopic investigations have previously shown that the users were infected by whipworm (Trichuris trichiura), roundworm (Ascaris lumbricoides), Taenia sp. tapeworm and pinworm (Enterobius vermicularis). However, the protozoa that cause dysentery are fragile and do not survive well in ancient samples in a form recognizable using light microscopy. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay kits designed to detect the antigens of Entamoeba histolytica, Cryptosporidium sp. and Giardia duodenalis were used. Results for Entamoeba and Cryptosporidium were negative, while Giardia was positive for both latrine sediments when the analysis was repeated three times. This provides our first microbiological evidence for infective diarrhoeal illnesses that would have affected the populations of the ancient near east. When we integrate descriptions from 2nd and 1st millennium BCE Mesopotamian medical texts, it seems likely that outbreaks of dysentery due to giardiasis may have caused ill health throughout early towns across the region.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Tianyi Wang
- Department of Archaeology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | | | - Yuval Gadot
- Department of Archaeology and Ancient Near Eastern Cultures, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Peter Warnock
- Social Sciences Division, Muskegon Community College, Muskegon, MI, USA
| | - Dafna Langgut
- Laboratory of Archaeobotany and Ancient Environments, Institute of Archaeology & The Steinhardt Museum of Natural History, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
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