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Adao DEV, Rivera WL. Subtype-host patterns and genetic differentiation of Blastocystis sp. in the Philippines. Heliyon 2024; 10:e29019. [PMID: 38601700 PMCID: PMC11004820 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e29019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2023] [Revised: 03/27/2024] [Accepted: 03/28/2024] [Indexed: 04/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Blastocystis sp. is a gastrointestinal protozoan commonly encountered in humans and animals. Specificity to certain hosts may be associated with 38 known subtypes (STs) and 8 nonmammalian and avian STs (NMASTs). This can be determined by analyzing ST-host associations, ST-allele data, genetic variability analyses, and fixation index (FST) with sufficient data present. Thus, newly acquired and previously published data on Blastocystis sp. STs and NMASTs from the Philippines were compiled to determine the following: (1) ST-host associations, (2) ST-allele diversity per ST in certain hosts/sources, (3) intrasubtype diversity of certain STs found in different hosts using genetic variability analysis, and (4) comparison of similarities between specific ST populations to determine if these are the same circulating populations using FST. A total of 448 samples subtyped using both sequence-tagged site primers and the 600-bp barcoding region of the Blastocystis sp. SSU rRNA gene were analyzed in this study. Patterns of association for the Philippine samples were similar to those from neighboring Southeast Asian countries and around the world: ST1-ST4 were found in humans but ST3 was the most common, ST5 were found in pigs, and ST6 and ST7 were found in poultry. Blastocystis sp. from humans are mostly the same ST alleles (ST3 allele 34 and ST1 allele 4) while 3-5 ST alleles were found in the most common STs in pigs, macaques, and poultry. Also, ST1, ST3, ST5, and NMAST I are undergoing population expansion according to genetic variability analyses through possible addition of new alleles based on ST-allele diversity. Moreover, FST shows the same circulating population of ST1 in humans, pigs, and water indicating a possible waterborne route of cross-transmission. In contrast, ST3 found in humans possibly come from the same circulating population and is genetically distinct from those in nonhuman sources.
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Affiliation(s)
- Davin Edric V. Adao
- Pathogen–Host–Environment Interactions Research Laboratory, Institute of Biology, College of Science, University of the Philippines Diliman, Quezon City, 1101, Philippines
| | - Windell L. Rivera
- Pathogen–Host–Environment Interactions Research Laboratory, Institute of Biology, College of Science, University of the Philippines Diliman, Quezon City, 1101, Philippines
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Kumarasamy V, Rajamanikam A, Anbazhagan D, Atroosh WM, Azzani M, Subramaniyan V, Abdullah SR. Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis: Epidemiology of Human Blastocystis spp. Infection in Malaysia. Trop Med Infect Dis 2023; 8:415. [PMID: 37624353 PMCID: PMC10457748 DOI: 10.3390/tropicalmed8080415] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2023] [Revised: 07/29/2023] [Accepted: 07/31/2023] [Indexed: 08/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Blastocystis spp. is a unicellular enteric protozoan parasite in humans with a controversial role in disease etiology. It is common in developing countries among immunocompromised patients and people who have close contact with animals. In this study, we have systematically reviewed previous studies on the distribution and genotypes of human Blastocystis infection in Peninsular Malaysia. Studies examining the prevalence of Blastocystis in diverse demographics, including rural, urban, comorbid conditions, and high-risk populations, were taken into consideration. The infection has been reported in nine states; the total percentage of infection was 17.8% (1671/9397), with the most cases in Pahang (27.3%) and the least in Johor (3.4%). Molecular studies revealed the presence of six subtypes: ST1, ST2, ST3, ST4, ST5, and ST6. ST3 was reported as the predominant subtype in all the states, with a prevalence of 54.7% (338/618). The findings provide greater clarity on the epidemiology of Blastocystis in Malaysia, which will help in policy making towards planning and strategizing control measures against the parasite.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vinoth Kumarasamy
- Department of Parasitology & Medical Entomology, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Jalan Yaacob Latif, Cheras, Kuala Lumpur 56000, Malaysia;
| | - Arutchelvan Rajamanikam
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur 50603, Malaysia
| | - Deepa Anbazhagan
- Department of Medical Microbiology, International Medical School (IMS), Management & Science University (MSU), Shah Alam 40100, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Wahib Mohammed Atroosh
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur 50603, Malaysia
| | - Meram Azzani
- Department of Public Health Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Sungai Buloh 47000, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Vetriselvan Subramaniyan
- Pharmacology Unit, Jeffrey Cheah School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Monash University, Jalan Lagoon Selatan, Bandar Sunway 47500, Selangor, Malaysia
- Center for Transdisciplinary Research, Department of Pharmacology, Saveetha Dental College, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Saveetha University, Chennai 600077, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Syamsa Rizal Abdullah
- Department of Parasitology & Medical Entomology, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Jalan Yaacob Latif, Cheras, Kuala Lumpur 56000, Malaysia;
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Aykur M, Calıskan Kurt C, Dirim Erdogan D, Biray Avcı C, Vardar R, Aydemir S, Girginkardesler N, Gunduz C, Dagci H. Distribution and Phylogenetic Analysis of Subtypes and Alleles of Blastocystis sp. in the Stool Samples Collected from Patients with Gastrointestinal Complaints in İzmir, Turkey. Acta Parasitol 2023. [PMID: 36806111 DOI: 10.1007/s11686-023-00665-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2022] [Accepted: 01/19/2023] [Indexed: 02/23/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Blastocystis sp. is one of the most prevalent intestinal protozoa found in humans and many other animals. The present study aimed to examine the distribution and genetic diversity of Blastocystis sp. in stool samples from patients with gastrointestinal complaints in İzmir, Turkey. METHODS All stool samples of 439 patients with gastrointestinal complaints were examined by native-Lugol and trichrome staining. To investigate the presence of Blastocystis sp. in stool samples, DNA was isolated, and PCR was performed with the barcode region in the SSU rRNA gene. PCR positive samples were sequenced to identify subtypes and alleles of Blastocystis sp. RESULTS The prevalence of Blastocystis sp. was found to be 16.6% (73/439) in patients with gastrointestinal complaints in İzmir, Turkey. Three different Blastocystis sp. subtypes were identified. ST3 (28/55; 51.0%) was the most common subtype followed by ST2 (19/55; 34.5%) and ST1 (8/55; 14.5%). Itching and diarrhea were the most prominent clinical symptoms in Blastocystis sp. positive patients. When clinical symptoms and subtypes were compared, diarrhea was found in 62.5%, 47.4%, and 46.4% of patients with ST1, ST2, and ST3 subtypes, respectively. In addition, itching was found in 37.5%, 32.1%, and 21.1% of patients with ST1, ST3, and ST2, respectively. Six distinct alleles were identified by allele analysis of Blastocystis 18S rRNA gene: allele 4 for ST1, alleles 9, 11, and 12 for ST2, and alleles 34 and 36 for ST3. In this study, Blastocystis sp. was detected in 16 of 21 districts, including the central and rural districts of İzmir. Although ST1 was detected in central districts, it was not found in rural districts. CONCLUSION This study provides comprehensive data on the prevalence and molecular epidemiology of the genetic diversity at the level of subtypes and alleles of Blastocystis sp. in different districts of İzmir province in Turkey. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study which evaluates the distribution of subtypes and alleles of Blastocystis sp. according to PCR and SSU rRNA gene sequencing in patients with gastrointestinal complaints in different districts of İzmir province in Turkey.
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Martín-Escolano R, Ng GC, Tan KSW, Stensvold CR, Gentekaki E, Tsaousis AD. Resistance of Blastocystis to chlorine and hydrogen peroxide. Parasitol Res 2023; 122:167-176. [PMID: 36378332 PMCID: PMC9816239 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-022-07713-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2022] [Accepted: 10/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Blastocystis is a ubiquitous, widely distributed protist inhabiting the gastrointestinal tract of humans and other animals. The organism is genetically diverse, and so far, at least 28 subtypes (STs) have been identified with ST1-ST9 being the most common in humans. The pathogenicity of Blastocystis is controversial. Several routes of transmission have been proposed including fecal-oral (e.g., zoonotic, anthroponotic) and waterborne. Research on the latter has gained traction in the last few years with the organism having been identified in various bodies of water, tap water, and rainwater collection containers including water that has been previously filtered and/or chlorinated. Herein, we assessed the resistance of 11 strains maintained in culture, spanning ST1-ST9 to various chlorine and hydrogen peroxide concentrations for 24 h, and performed recovery assays along with re-exposure. Following the treatment with both compounds, all subtypes showed increased resistance, and viability could be visualized at the cellular level. These results are hinting at the presence of mechanism of resistance to both chlorine and hydrogen peroxide. As such, this pilot study can be the platform for developing guidelines for water treatment processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rubén Martín-Escolano
- Laboratory of Molecular and Evolutionary Parasitology, RAPID Group, School of Biosciences, University of Kent, Canterbury, CT2 7NJ, UK
| | - Geok Choo Ng
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, 5 Science Drive 2, Singapore, 117545, Singapore
| | - Kevin S W Tan
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, 5 Science Drive 2, Singapore, 117545, Singapore
| | - C Rune Stensvold
- Department of Bacteria, Parasites and Fungi, Statens Serum Institut, Artillerivej 5, 2300, Copenhagen S, Denmark
| | - Eleni Gentekaki
- Gut Microbiome Research Group, Mae Fah Luang University, Chiang Rai, 57100, Thailand. .,School of Science, Mae Fah Luang University, Chiang Rai, 57100, Thailand.
| | - Anastasios D Tsaousis
- Laboratory of Molecular and Evolutionary Parasitology, RAPID Group, School of Biosciences, University of Kent, Canterbury, CT2 7NJ, UK.
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Abu A, Sutthikornchai C, Mahittikorn A, Koompapong K, Chiabchalard R, Arthan D, Soonthornworasiri N, Popruk S. Prevalence and Subtype Distribution of Blastocystis Isolated from School-Aged Children in the Thai-Myanmar Border, Ratchaburi Province, Thailand. Int J Environ Res Public Health 2022; 20:204. [PMID: 36612533 PMCID: PMC9819352 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20010204] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2022] [Revised: 12/19/2022] [Accepted: 12/20/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Blastocystis is one of the most common enteric protozoa that inhabits the intestinal tract of humans and different animals. Moreover, it has a worldwide geographic distribution. Its main mode of transmission is via the fecal-oral route. At present, 26 subtypes are widely distributed across both humans and animals. The current study aimed to determine the prevalence and subtype distribution of Blastocystis among school-aged children living on the Thai-Myanmar border, Ratchaburi province, Thailand. In total, 508 samples were collected from children at six schools. The prevalence of Blastocystis infection was amplified and sequenced in the 600 bp barcode region of the small-subunit ribosomal RNA (SSU rRNA). The overall prevalence of Blastocystis infection was 3.35% (17/508). ST3 (11/17) was the most predominant subtype, followed by ST1 (5/17) and ST2 (1/17). A phylogenetic tree was constructed based on the Tamura92+G+I model using the maximum-likelihood algorithm. Surprisingly, all sequences of the ST3-positive samples were closely correlated with the cattle-derived sequence. Meanwhile, all sequences of the Blastocystis ST1-positive samples were closely correlated with the human-derived sequence. Nevertheless, further studies should be conducted to validate the zoonotic transmission of Blastocystis. Based on our findings, personal hygiene and sanitation should be improved to promote better health in children in this area.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanee Abu
- Department of Protozoology, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, 420/6 Ratchawithi Road, Bangkok 10400, Thailand
| | - Chantira Sutthikornchai
- Department of Protozoology, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, 420/6 Ratchawithi Road, Bangkok 10400, Thailand
| | - Aongart Mahittikorn
- Department of Protozoology, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, 420/6 Ratchawithi Road, Bangkok 10400, Thailand
| | - Khuanchai Koompapong
- Department of Protozoology, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, 420/6 Ratchawithi Road, Bangkok 10400, Thailand
| | - Rachatawan Chiabchalard
- Department of Protozoology, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, 420/6 Ratchawithi Road, Bangkok 10400, Thailand
| | - Dumrongkiet Arthan
- Department of Tropical Nutrition and Food Science, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, 420/6 Ratchawithi Road, Bangkok 10400, Thailand
| | - Ngamphol Soonthornworasiri
- Department of Tropical Hygiene, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, 420/6 Ratchawithi Road, Bangkok 10400, Thailand
| | - Supaluk Popruk
- Department of Protozoology, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, 420/6 Ratchawithi Road, Bangkok 10400, Thailand
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Jinatham V, Maxamhud S, Popluechai S, Tsaousis AD, Gentekaki E. Blastocystis One Health Approach in a Rural Community of Northern Thailand: Prevalence, Subtypes and Novel Transmission Routes. Front Microbiol 2021; 12:746340. [PMID: 34956115 PMCID: PMC8696170 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2021.746340] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2021] [Accepted: 11/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Blastocystis is the most commonly found eukaryote in the gut of humans and other animals. This protist is extremely heterogeneous genetically and is classified into 28 subtypes (STs) based on the small subunit ribosomal RNA (SSU rRNA) gene. Numerous studies exist on prevalence of the organism, which usually focus on either humans or animals or the environment, while only a handful investigates all three sources simultaneously. Consequently, understanding of Blastocystis transmission dynamics remains inadequate. Our aim was to explore Blastocystis under the One Health perspective using a rural community in northern Thailand as our study area. We surveyed human, other animal and environmental samples using both morphological and molecular approaches. Prevalence rates of Blastocystis were 73% in human hosts (n = 45), 100% in non-human hosts (n = 44) and 91% in environmental samples (n = 35). Overall, ten subtypes were identified (ST1, ST2, ST3, ST4 ST5, ST6, ST7, ST10, ST23, and ST26), eight of which were detected in humans (ST1, ST2, ST3, ST4, ST5, ST7, ST10, and ST23), three in other animals (ST6, ST7, and ST23), while seven (ST1, ST3, ST6, ST7, ST10, ST23, and ST26) were found in the environment. In our investigation of transmission dynamics, we assessed various groupings both at the household and community level. Given the overall high prevalence rate, transmission amongst humans and between animals and humans are not as frequent as expected with only two subtypes being shared. This raises questions on the role of the environment on transmission of Blastocystis. Water and soil comprise the main reservoirs of the various subtypes in this community. Five subtypes are shared between humans and the environment, while three overlap between the latter and animal hosts. We propose soil as a novel route of transmission, which should be considered in future investigations. This study provides a thorough One Health perspective on Blastocystis. Using this type of approach advances our understanding on occurrence, diversity, ecology and transmission dynamics of this poorly understood, yet frequent gut resident.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vasana Jinatham
- School of Science, Mae Fah Luang University, Chiang Rai, Thailand
| | - Sadiya Maxamhud
- Laboratory of Molecular and Evolutionary Parasitology, RAPID Group, School of Biosciences, University of Kent, Canterbury, United Kingdom
| | - Siam Popluechai
- School of Science, Mae Fah Luang University, Chiang Rai, Thailand.,Gut Microbiome Research Group, Mae Fah Luang University, Chiang Rai, Thailand
| | - Anastasios D Tsaousis
- Laboratory of Molecular and Evolutionary Parasitology, RAPID Group, School of Biosciences, University of Kent, Canterbury, United Kingdom
| | - Eleni Gentekaki
- School of Science, Mae Fah Luang University, Chiang Rai, Thailand.,Gut Microbiome Research Group, Mae Fah Luang University, Chiang Rai, Thailand
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Betts EL, Newton JM, Thompson GS, Sarzhanov F, Jinatham V, Kim MJ, Popluechai S, Dogruman-Al F, Won EJ, Gentekaki E, Tsaousis AD. Metabolic Fluctuations in the Human Stool Obtained from Blastocystis Carriers and Non-Carriers. Metabolites 2021; 11:883. [PMID: 34940641 DOI: 10.3390/metabo11120883] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2021] [Revised: 11/26/2021] [Accepted: 12/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Blastocystis is an obligate anaerobic microbial eukaryote that frequently inhabits the gastrointestinal tract. Despite this prevalence, very little is known about the extent of its genetic diversity, pathogenicity, and interaction with the rest of the microbiome and its host. Although the organism is morphologically static, it has no less than 28 genetically distinct subtypes (STs). Reports on the pathogenicity of Blastocystis are conflicting. The association between Blastocystis and intestinal bacterial communities is being increasingly explored. Nonetheless, similar investigations extending to the metabolome are non-existent.Using established NMR metabolomics protocols in 149 faecal samples from individuals from South Korea (n = 38), Thailand (n = 44) and Turkey (n = 69), we have provided a snapshot of the core metabolic compounds present in human stools with (B+) and without (B−) Blastocystis. Samples included hosts with gastrointestinal symptoms and asymptomatics. A total of nine, 62 and 98 significant metabolites were associated with Blastocystis carriage in the South Korean, Thai and Turkish sample sets respectively, with a number of metabolites increased in colonised groups. The metabolic profiles of B+ and B− samples from all countries were distinct and grouped separately in the partial least squares-discriminant analysis (PLS-DA). Typical inflammation-related metabolites negatively associated with Blastocystis positive samples. This data will assist in directing future studies underlying the involvement of Blastocystis in physiological processes of both the gut microbiome and the host. Future studies using metabolome and microbiome data along with host physiology and immune responses information will contribute significantly towards elucidating the role of Blastocystis in health and disease.
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Ruang-Areerate T, Piyaraj P, Suwannahitatorn P, Ruang-Areerate P, Thita T, Naaglor T, Witee U, Sakboonyarat B, Leelayoova S, Mungthin M. Zoonotic Transmission of Blastocystis Subtype 1 among People in Eastern Communities of Thailand: Organic Fertilizer from Pig Feces as a Potential Source. Microbiol Spectr 2021; 9:e0036221. [PMID: 34585984 DOI: 10.1128/Spectrum.00362-21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Blastocystis sp., the most common intestinal protozoa, remains a public health problem among people in many countries, particularly in rural areas of developing countries. The infection usually reflects poor sanitation in communities by waterborne, zoonotic, and person-to-person transmission. Interestingly, at least 17 subtypes (STs) have been reported and are associated with a broad range of animal hosts, including humans. In this study, we reported potential evidence of zoonotic transmission of Blastocystis ST1 in rural communities of eastern Thailand where the overall prevalence of Blastocystis infection was 15.7%. Two major and three minor subtypes were found to be distributed unequally in this region. Of 5 STs, only ST1 was found to be associated with pig feces in an open farm system that produced organic fertilizer for agriculture uses in the community. This finding suggests that properly protective contact and standard production of organic fertilizer from pig feces by-products could be key factors for reducing the prevalence of Blastocystis infection and prevent Blastocystis reinfection among people in the community. IMPORTANCEBlastocystis sp. remains a public health problem among people, particularly in rural areas of many developing countries. The infection usually reflects poor sanitation in communities by waterborne, zoonotic, and person-to-person transmission. In this study, we reported potential evidence of zoonotic transmission of Blastocystis subtype 1 (ST1) in rural communities of eastern Thailand. Two major and three minor subtypes were found to be unequally distributed in this region. Interestingly, only ST1 was found to be associated with pig feces in an open farm system that produced organic fertilizer for agriculture uses in the community. The finding makes significant contributions to genetic and molecular investigations of microbial topics of practical value and suggest that properly protective contact and standard production of organic fertilizer from pig feces by-products could be key factors for reducing the prevalence of Blastocystis infection and prevent Blastocystis reinfection among people in the community.
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Nemati S, Zali MR, Johnson P, Mirjalali H, Karanis P. Molecular prevalence and subtype distribution of Blastocystis sp. in Asia and in Australia. J Water Health 2021; 19:687-704. [PMID: 34665764 DOI: 10.2166/wh.2021.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Blastocystis is a prevalent protozoan parasite reported in humans, animals, and environmental samples. Over the past decade, numerous studies have investigated the prevalence and subtype distribution of Blastocystis sp. alongside with its genetic and biochemical features. However, studies on subtype distribution of this protozoan in humans, animals, and environmental samples represent the potential transmission routes. In this review, we evaluated studies performed in Asian countries and in Australia to provide an overview of environmental factors on the prevalence and subtype distribution of Blastocystis sp. among humans, animals, and the environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Nemati
- Foodborne and Waterborne Diseases Research Center, Research Institute for Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran E-mail:
| | - Mohammad Reza Zali
- Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases Research Center, Research Institute for Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Paul Johnson
- Department of Basic and Clinical Sciences, Nicosia University Medical School, Nicosia 2408, Cyprus
| | - Hamed Mirjalali
- Foodborne and Waterborne Diseases Research Center, Research Institute for Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran E-mail:
| | - Panagiotis Karanis
- Department of Basic and Clinical Sciences, Nicosia University Medical School, Nicosia 2408, Cyprus; Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
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Rauff-Adedotun AA, Meor Termizi FH, Shaari N, Lee IL. The Coexistence of Blastocystis spp. in Humans, Animals and Environmental Sources from 2010-2021 in Asia. Biology (Basel) 2021; 10:990. [PMID: 34681089 PMCID: PMC8533399 DOI: 10.3390/biology10100990] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2021] [Revised: 09/22/2021] [Accepted: 09/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Blastocystis spp. are controversial unicellular protists that inhabit the gastrointestinal tract of humans and a wide range of animals worldwide. This review provides an overview of the prevalence and distribution of Blastocystis spp. and their subtypes throughout Asia. Research articles reporting on the presence of Blastocystis spp. in locations within Asia, between 1 January 2010, and 10 May 2021, were obtained from Scopus, PubMed, and Google Scholar. In 427 articles, the prevalence of Blastocystis spp. in 31 countries within the last decade was revealed. Isolates were found in humans, various mammals, birds, reptiles, insects, water sources, vegetables, and ambient air. Prevalence of Blastocystis spp. varied widely across host categories. Subtypes identified throughout Asia were STs 1-14, and ST18-22 (novel subtypes). ST1, ST2, ST3, ST4 were the most frequently isolated in humans; ST5 in pigs; ST10 and ST14 in goats, sheep, and cattle; and ST6 and ST7 in chickens. ST1 and ST3 were most common in water samples. ST1, ST2, ST3, ST4, ST5 and ST6 were shared by humans, animals, and water sources. There is a growing interest in the study of Blastocystis spp. and their subtypes in Asia. Due to the isolation of Blastocystis spp. from biotic and abiotic sources in Asia, the application of the One Health (OH) approach to the study of Blastocystis spp. is proposed for improved perception of this organism.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Farah Haziqah Meor Termizi
- School of Biological Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur 11800, Malaysia; (A.A.R.-A.); (F.H.M.T.)
| | - Nurshafarina Shaari
- Kulliyyah of Medicine & Health Sciences, Universiti Islam Antarabangsa Sultan Abdul Halim Mu’adzam Shah, Kuala Ketil 09300, Malaysia;
| | - Ii Li Lee
- Kulliyyah of Medicine & Health Sciences, Universiti Islam Antarabangsa Sultan Abdul Halim Mu’adzam Shah, Kuala Ketil 09300, Malaysia;
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Popruk S, Adao DEV, Rivera WL. Epidemiology and subtype distribution of Blastocystis in humans: A review. Infect Genet Evol 2021; 95:105085. [PMID: 34530156 DOI: 10.1016/j.meegid.2021.105085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2021] [Revised: 09/08/2021] [Accepted: 09/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Blastocystis is a commonly encountered gastrointestinal protozoan in humans and animals with uncertain pathogenicity. Despite its potential public health impact, epidemiological data regarding the prevalence and molecular subtype (ST) distribution of Blastocystis have been rarely reported. Among Blastocystis STs, ST1-ST4 are common in humans, including healthy and immunodeficient populations. According to the Chi-squared (χ2) association based on the data compiled for this cross-sectional study, the presence of ST1 is associated with asymptomatic infection, whereas the presence of ST4 is associated with symptomatic infection. However, cross-sectional studies cannot clarify the potential pathogenicity of Blastocystis, unlike in vivo and in vitro studies. Poor hygiene, poor sanitation and zoonotic transmission are possible factors associated with high Blastocystis prevalence, although this protozoan may be part of the normal healthy human gastrointestinal microbiota. This review covers the prevalence, STs and distribution of Blastocystis infection in humans. Thus, future epidemiological and subtyping studies could reveal new STs in humans as well as possible associations of STs with disease, drug resistance and related mechanisms such as protease activity. These associations with proper ST identification may facilitate the control of potential threats to host health, including the direct pathogenic effects of Blastocystis or alterations of the gastrointestinal microbiome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Supaluk Popruk
- Department of Protozoology, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, 420/6 Ratchawithi Road, Bangkok 10400, Thailand
| | - Davin Edric V Adao
- Pathogen-Host-Environment Interactions Research Laboratory, Institute of Biology, College of Science, University of the Philippines Diliman, Quezon City 1101, Philippines
| | - Windell L Rivera
- Pathogen-Host-Environment Interactions Research Laboratory, Institute of Biology, College of Science, University of the Philippines Diliman, Quezon City 1101, Philippines.
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12
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Jinatham V, Cantoni DM, Brown IR, Vichaslip T, Suwannahitatorn P, Popluechai S, Tsaousis AD, Gentekaki E. Prototheca bovis, a unicellular achlorophyllous trebouxiophyte green alga in the healthy human intestine. J Med Microbiol 2021; 70. [PMID: 34486973 DOI: 10.1099/jmm.0.001415] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction. Prototheca species are non-photosynthetic trebouxiophyte algae ubiquitously distributed in nature and can be found in sewage and soil. This microbial eukaryote causes human protothecosis in immunocompromised individuals. Thus, Prototheca presence in the stool of individuals without gastrointestinal symptoms has been reported only rarely.Hypothesis/Gap statement. There is an absence of detailed characterization of human Prototheca isolates.Aim. The aim of this study was to perform morphological and molecular characterization of Prototheca isolates obtained from human stool.Methodology. Prototheca was isolated from faecal samples of four individuals living in a rural area in Thailand. A combination of bioimaging along with molecular and bioinformatics tools was used to characterize the four strains. The growth rate was tested using four media and three temperature conditions. Phylogenetic analysis using the small subunit ribosomal RNA (SSU rRNA) and cytochrome b (cytb) was also performed.Results. Static and live microscopy demonstrated the various life stages of Prototheca and its major defining cellular characteristics. An optimized DNA extraction methodology that improves DNA yield is provided. Partial fragments of the SSU rRNA and cytb genes were obtained. Phylogenetic analysis placed all four strains in the clade with Prototheca bovis. More broadly, Prototheca was not monophyletic but split into at least two distinct clades instead.Conclusion. The results represent the first molecular characterization of Prototheca in Thailand. The study provides insight into transmission dynamics of the organism and potential caveats in estimating the global prevalence of Prototheca. These will spearhead further investigations on Prototheca occurrence in rural areas of both industrialized and developing nations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vasana Jinatham
- School of Science, Mae Fah Luang University, Chiang Rai 57100, Thailand
| | - Diego M Cantoni
- Laboratory of Molecular and Evolutionary Parasitology, RAPID group, School of Biosciences, University of Kent, Canterbury, UK
| | - Ian R Brown
- Bioimaging Facility, School of Biosciences, University of Kent, Canterbury, UK
| | | | | | - Siam Popluechai
- School of Science, Mae Fah Luang University, Chiang Rai 57100, Thailand.,Gut Microbiome Research Group, Mae Fah Luang University, Chiang Rai 57100, Thailand
| | - Anastasios D Tsaousis
- Laboratory of Molecular and Evolutionary Parasitology, RAPID group, School of Biosciences, University of Kent, Canterbury, UK
| | - Eleni Gentekaki
- School of Science, Mae Fah Luang University, Chiang Rai 57100, Thailand.,Gut Microbiome Research Group, Mae Fah Luang University, Chiang Rai 57100, Thailand
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13
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Fahim SM, Gazi MA, Hasan MM, Alam MA, Das S, Mahfuz M, Rahman MM, Haque R, Sarker SA, Ahmed T. Infection with Blastocystis spp. and its association with enteric infections and environmental enteric dysfunction among slum-dwelling malnourished adults in Bangladesh. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2021; 15:e0009684. [PMID: 34407080 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0009684] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2021] [Revised: 08/30/2021] [Accepted: 07/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Blastocystis spp. (Blastocystis) is a widely distributed gastrointestinal protist frequently reported in countries with tropical and sub-tropical climate. We sought to determine the factors associated with Blastocystis infection and investigate its role on biomarkers of intestinal health among slum-dwelling malnourished adults in Bangladesh. Methodology Total 524 malnourished adults with a body mass index ≤18.5 kg/m2 were included in this analysis. Presence of Blastocystis in feces was evaluated by TaqMan Array Card assays. Principal findings Blastocystis was tested positive in 78.6% of the participants. Prevalence of infection with atypical strains of enteropathogenic Escherichia coli (aEPEC) (56% vs. 38%, p<0.001), and Trichuris trichiura (28% vs. 15%, p-value = 0.02) was significantly greater in adults with Blastocystis, while Giardia intestinalis was significantly lower (8% vs. 14%, p-value = 0.04) in Blastocystis positive adults. Malnourished adults who were living in households with high crowding index (aOR = 2.18; 95% CI = 1.11, 4.65; p-value = 0.03), and infected with aEPEC (aOR = 2.14; 95% CI = 1.35, 3.44; p-value = 0.001) and Trichuris trichiura (aOR = 1.97; 95% CI = 1.08, 3.77; p = 0.03) were more likely to be infected with Blastocystis. A significant negative relationship was observed between Blastocystis and fecal concentrations of alpha-1 antitrypsin (β = -0.1; 95% CI = -1.7, -0.1; p-value<0.001) and Reg1B (β = -3.6; 95% CI = -6.9, -3.0; p-value = 0.03). Conclusions The study findings suggest that the presence of Blastocystis in human intestine influences gut health and may have potential pathogenic role in presence of other pathogens. Infection with Blastocystis, a neglected enteric pathogen, is frequently reported in tropical and sub-tropical countries. However, the epidemiology, pathogenicity and associated outcomes of Blastocystis in relation to enteric infections and Environmental Enteric Dysfunction (EED) remain inconclusive. In this study, the authors investigated the factors associated with Blastocystis infection and examined its association with enteric infections as well as fecal biomarkers of environmental enteric dysfunction among slum-dwelling malnourished adults in Bangladesh. The study findings exhibited that nearly 80% of the participants were infected with Blastocystis demonstrating a positive association with crowded living conditions. The authors observed a positive association of Blastocystis with atypical strain of Enteropathogenic Escherichia coli and Trichuris trichiura. The study results also corroborate that infection with Blastocystis had significant negative association with alpha-1 antitrypsin and Reg1B concentrations measured in the stool samples of the study participants. The findings of this study would help to reveal the pathogenic potential of Blastocystis and determine its role in contributing to altered gut health as well as EED in malnourished adults living in resource limited environments.
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14
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Popruk N, Prasongwattana S, Mahittikorn A, Palasuwan A, Popruk S, Palasuwan D. Prevalence and Subtype Distribution of Blastocystis Infection in Patients with Diabetes Mellitus in Thailand. Int J Environ Res Public Health 2020; 17:ijerph17238877. [PMID: 33260351 PMCID: PMC7730192 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17238877] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2020] [Revised: 11/25/2020] [Accepted: 11/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a major global public health problem with an increasing prevalence. DM increases the risk of infections caused by bacteria, fungi, viruses, and parasites. We examined the prevalence, subtypes, and risk factors of Blastocystis infection in patients with and without DM in central Thailand. Stool samples and questionnaires were obtained from 130 people in the DM group and 100 people in the non-DM group. Blastocystis infection was identified via a nested polymerase chain reaction and subtyped via sequencing of the partial small-subunit ribosomal RNA (SSU rRNA) gene. Analysis of potential risk factors was conducted via binary logistic regression. The overall prevalence of Blastocystis infection was 10.8%, including rates of 9% and 12.3% in the non-DM and DM groups, respectively. The most prevalent subtype was ST3, followed by ST1, and ST4. Factors that potentially increased the risk of Blastocystis infection include patients being >65 years old, the presence of DM, a DM duration of ≥10 years, a low level of education, and animal ownership. In conclusion, this is the first study of Blastocystis infection in DM, and a high prevalence was found among this population. Therefore, health education promoting sanitation and hygiene is necessary to reduce and prevent infection in the community.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noppon Popruk
- Department of Transfusion Medicine and Clinical Microbiology, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand;
| | - Satakamol Prasongwattana
- Department of Nursing, Bang Pa-in Hospital, Bang Pa-in District, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya 13160, Thailand;
| | - Aongart Mahittikorn
- Department of Protozoology, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok 10400, Thailand;
| | - Attakorn Palasuwan
- Oxidation in Red Cell Disorders Research Unit, Department of Clinical Microscopy, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand;
| | - Supaluk Popruk
- Department of Protozoology, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok 10400, Thailand;
- Correspondence: (S.P.); (D.P.); Tel.: +662-3549-100 (S.P.); +662-2181-541 (D.P.)
| | - Duangdao Palasuwan
- Oxidation in Red Cell Disorders Research Unit, Department of Clinical Microscopy, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand;
- Correspondence: (S.P.); (D.P.); Tel.: +662-3549-100 (S.P.); +662-2181-541 (D.P.)
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15
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Angelici MC, Walochnik J, Calderaro A, Saxinger L, Dacks JB. Free-living amoebae and other neglected protistan pathogens: Health emergency signals? Eur J Protistol 2020; 77:125760. [PMID: 33340850 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejop.2020.125760] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2020] [Revised: 10/25/2020] [Accepted: 11/13/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Protistan parasites have an undisputed global health impact. However, outside of a few key exceptions, e.g. the agent of malaria, most of these infectious agents are neglected as important health threats. The Symposium entitled "Free-living amoebae and neglected pathogenic protozoa: health emergency signals?" held at the European Congress of Protistology in Rome, July 2019, brought together researchers addressing scientific and clinical questions about some of these fascinating organisms. Topics presented included the molecular basis of pathogenicity in Acanthamoeba; genomics of Naegleria fowleri; and epidemiology of poorly diagnosed enteric protistan species, including Giardia, Cryptosporidium, Blastocystis, Dientamoeba. The Symposium aim was to excite the audience about the opportunities and challenges of research in these underexplored organisms and to underline the public health implications of currently under-appreciated protistan infections. The major take home message is that any knowledge that we gain about these organisms will allow us to better address them, in terms of monitoring and treatment, as sources of future health emergencies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Julia Walochnik
- Center for Pathophysiology, Infectiology and Immunology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Adriana Calderaro
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Lynora Saxinger
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of Alberta, Alberta, Canada
| | - Joel B Dacks
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of Alberta, Alberta, Canada; Institute of Parasitology, Biology Centre, Czech Academy of Sciences České Budějovice, Czech Republic.
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16
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Betts EL, Gentekaki E, Tsaousis AD. Exploring Micro-Eukaryotic Diversity in the Gut: Co-occurrence of Blastocystis Subtypes and Other Protists in Zoo Animals. Front Microbiol 2020; 11:288. [PMID: 32161577 PMCID: PMC7052370 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2020.00288] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2019] [Accepted: 02/10/2020] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Blastocystis is a genetically diverse microbial eukaryote thriving in the gut of humans and other animals. While Blastocystis has been linked with gastrointestinal disorders, its pathogenicity remains controversial. Previous reports have suggested that one out of six humans could be carrying Blastocystis in their gut, while the numbers could be even higher in animals. Most studies on Blastocystis are either exclusively targeting the organism itself and/or the associated prokaryotic microbiome, while co-occurrence of other microbial eukaryotes has been mainly ignored. Herein, we aimed to explore presence and genetic diversity of Blastocystis along with the commonly occurring eukaryotes Cryptosporidium, Eimeria, Entamoeba and Giardia in the gut of asymptomatic animals from two conservation parks in the United Kingdom. Building upon a previous study, a total of 231 fecal samples were collected from 38 vertebrates, which included 12 carnivorous and 26 non-carnivorous species. None of the animals examined herein showed gastrointestinal symptoms. The barcoding region of the small subunit ribosomal RNA was used for subtyping of Blastocystis. Overall, 47% of animal species were positive for Blastocystis. Twenty six percent of samples carried more than one subtypes, including the newly identified hosts Scottish wildcat, bongo and lynx. Fifty three percent of samples carried at least another microbial eukaryote. Herewith, we discuss potential implications of these findings and the increasingly blurred definition of microbial parasites.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma L Betts
- Laboratory of Molecular and Evolutionary Parasitology, RAPID Group, School of Biosciences, University of Kent, Canterbury, United Kingdom
| | - Eleni Gentekaki
- School of Science, Mae Fah Luang University, Chiang Rai, Thailand.,Gut Microbiome Research Group, Mae Fah Luang University, Chiang Rai, Thailand
| | - Anastasios D Tsaousis
- Laboratory of Molecular and Evolutionary Parasitology, RAPID Group, School of Biosciences, University of Kent, Canterbury, United Kingdom
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17
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Calero-Bernal R, Santín M, Maloney JG, Martín-Pérez M, Habela MA, Fernández-García JL, Figueiredo A, Nájera F, Palacios MJ, Mateo M, Balseiro A, Barral M, Lima-Barberoi JF, Köster PC, Carmena D. Blastocystis sp. Subtype Diversity in Wild Carnivore Species from Spain. J Eukaryot Microbiol 2019; 67:273-278. [PMID: 31691450 DOI: 10.1111/jeu.12772] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2019] [Revised: 10/14/2019] [Accepted: 10/26/2019] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
The occurrence and molecular diversity of the stramenopile eukaryote Blastocystis sp. was investigated by PCR and sequencing (Sanger and NGS) methods in 380 faecal specimens of free-living carnivores in Spain. Blastocystis sp. was confirmed in 1.6% (6/380) of the specimens analysed. Two samples from a common genet and a fox were successfully subtyped as ST7 by Sanger. Using NGS, ST14 was found in a fox and a European polecat, ST7 in a fox, and two additional foxes presented mixed infections of ST1/ST2/ST4 and ST1/ST2/ST7, respectively. Wild carnivore species could act as carriers of zoonotic Blastocystis subtypes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rafael Calero-Bernal
- SALUVET, Department of Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary, Complutense University of Madrid, Av. Puerta de Hierro s/n, 28040, Madrid, Spain
| | - Mónica Santín
- Environmental Microbial and Food Safety Laboratory, Beltsville Agricultural Research Center, Agricultural Research Service, United States Department of Agriculture, Beltsville, Maryland, 20705, USA
| | - Jenny G Maloney
- Environmental Microbial and Food Safety Laboratory, Beltsville Agricultural Research Center, Agricultural Research Service, United States Department of Agriculture, Beltsville, Maryland, 20705, USA
| | - Manuel Martín-Pérez
- Department of Animal Health, Veterinary Sciences Faculty, Extremadura University, Av. de la Universidad s/n, 10003, Cáceres, Spain
| | - Miguel A Habela
- Department of Animal Health, Veterinary Sciences Faculty, Extremadura University, Av. de la Universidad s/n, 10003, Cáceres, Spain
| | - José L Fernández-García
- Department of Animal Health, Veterinary Sciences Faculty, Extremadura University, Av. de la Universidad s/n, 10003, Cáceres, Spain
| | - Ana Figueiredo
- Department of Biology & CESAM, University of Aveiro, Campus Universitário de Santiago, 3810-193, Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Fernando Nájera
- Directorate-General for Environment, Regional Government of Extremadura, Luis Jacinto Ramallo García s/n, 06800, Mérida, Badajoz, Spain
| | - María J Palacios
- Directorate-General for Environment, Regional Government of Extremadura, Luis Jacinto Ramallo García s/n, 06800, Mérida, Badajoz, Spain
| | - Marta Mateo
- Veterinary Faculty, Alfonso X El Sabio University, Avenida Universidad 1, 28691, Villanueva de la Cañada, Madrid, Spain
| | - Ana Balseiro
- Animal Health Department, Veterinary School, University of León, Campus de Vegazana s/n, 24007, León, Spain
| | - Marta Barral
- Department of Animal Health, Basque Institute of Agricultural Research and Development (NEIKER), Berreaga 1, 48160, Derio, Bizkaia, Spain
| | - José F Lima-Barberoi
- SaBio Working Group, Institute for Game and Wildlife Research IREC (CSIC-UCLM-JCCM), Ronda de Toledo 12, 13005, Ciudad Real, Spain.,SABIOTec Spin Off, Camino de Moledores s/n, 13005, Ciudad Real, 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
| | - David Carmena
- 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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18
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Gong B, Liu X, Wu Y, Xu N, Xu M, Yang F, Tong L, Zhou K, Cao J, Liu A, Shen Y. Prevalence and subtype distribution of Blastocystis in ethnic minority groups on both sides of the China-Myanmar border, and assessment of risk factors. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2019; 26:46. [PMID: 31343971 PMCID: PMC6658150 DOI: 10.1051/parasite/2019046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2019] [Accepted: 07/16/2019] [Indexed: 11/14/2022]
Abstract
Blastocystis is one of the most common intestinal parasites in humans worldwide. To understand its prevalence and to explore the risk factors for Blastocystis in humans in developing countries, a molecular epidemiological investigation of Blastocystis was conducted in ethnic minority groups on both sides of the China-Myanmar border. A total of 461 fecal specimens were collected from 289 Yao people in China and 172 Wa people in Myanmar, together with a questionnaire for each participant. Based on sequence analysis of the partial small subunit of ribosomal RNA (SSU rRNA) gene (barcode region or 260 bp region), an average prevalence of 6.29% (29/461) was observed, with 4.50% (13/289) in Yao people and 9.30% (16/172) in Wa people. Twenty-two Blastocystis isolates were successfully subtyped by sequence analysis of the barcode region. Three subtypes were identified: ST1 (n = 7), ST3 (n = 13) and ST4 (n = 2). A statistical difference in the prevalence of Blastocystis was only observed between children (12.37%, 12/97) and adults (4.95%, 16/323), and between not washing hands (11.02%, 14/127) and washing hands (4.76%, 15/315) after using toilets, emphasizing the importance and necessity of health education in people in the investigated areas, especially in children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Baiyan Gong
- Department of Parasitology, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, 150081 Heilongjiang, PR China
| | - Xiaohua Liu
- Department of Parasitology, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, 150081 Heilongjiang, PR China
| | - Yanchen Wu
- Department of Parasitology, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, 150081 Heilongjiang, PR China
| | - Ning Xu
- National Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Chinese Center for Tropical Diseases Research, WHO Collaborating Centre for Tropical Diseases, National Center for International Research on Tropical Diseases, Ministry of Science and Technology, Key Laboratory of Parasite and Vector Biology, MOH, Shanghai 200025, PR China
| | - Meng Xu
- National Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Chinese Center for Tropical Diseases Research, WHO Collaborating Centre for Tropical Diseases, National Center for International Research on Tropical Diseases, Ministry of Science and Technology, Key Laboratory of Parasite and Vector Biology, MOH, Shanghai 200025, PR China
| | - Fengkun Yang
- Department of Parasitology, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, 150081 Heilongjiang, PR China
| | - Lei Tong
- Department of Parasitology, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, 150081 Heilongjiang, PR China
| | - Kexin Zhou
- Department of Parasitology, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, 150081 Heilongjiang, PR China
| | - Jianping Cao
- National Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Chinese Center for Tropical Diseases Research, WHO Collaborating Centre for Tropical Diseases, National Center for International Research on Tropical Diseases, Ministry of Science and Technology, Key Laboratory of Parasite and Vector Biology, MOH, Shanghai 200025, PR China
| | - Aiqin Liu
- Department of Parasitology, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, 150081 Heilongjiang, PR China
| | - Yujuan Shen
- National Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Chinese Center for Tropical Diseases Research, WHO Collaborating Centre for Tropical Diseases, National Center for International Research on Tropical Diseases, Ministry of Science and Technology, Key Laboratory of Parasite and Vector Biology, MOH, Shanghai 200025, PR China
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19
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Mardani Kataki M, Tavalla M, Beiromvand M. Higher prevalence of Blastocystis hominis in healthy individuals than patients with gastrointestinal symptoms from Ahvaz, southwestern Iran. Comp Immunol Microbiol Infect Dis 2019; 65:160-164. [PMID: 31300108 DOI: 10.1016/j.cimid.2019.05.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2019] [Revised: 05/17/2019] [Accepted: 05/21/2019] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Blastocystis, a common intestinal protozoan of humans and animals, infected more than 1 billion people around the world. This enteric protozoan is frequently reported in both healthy individuals and patients with gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms. METHODS Three hundred and forty-five fecal samples including 151 GI patients and 194 healthy individuals were examined by microscopy, culture and PCR-sequencing techniques to determine Blastocystis frequency and subtype (ST) variation. RESULTS The occurrence of Blastocystis was detected 56 (16.2%) and 85 (24.6%) by microscopy, culture and PCR methods, respectively. Out of the 85 positive patients, 60 (70.6%) were asymptomatic and 25 (29.4%) were symptomatic. The results of 41 successfully sequenced isolates identified 8 (19.5%), 8 (19.5%), and 25 (61.0%) ST1, ST2, and ST3, respectively. CONCLUSION This study has found that Blastocystis was more common in healthy individuals than GI patients. Another finding was that no correlation was found between clinical symptoms and Blastocystis STs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masoumeh Mardani Kataki
- Student Research Committee, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran; Department of Parasitology, School of Medicine, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
| | - Mehdi Tavalla
- Department of Parasitology, School of Medicine, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran; Infectious and Tropical Diseases Research Center, Health Research Institute; Department of Parasitology, School of Medicine, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of MedicalSciences, Ahvaz, Iran
| | - Molouk Beiromvand
- Department of Parasitology, School of Medicine, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran; Infectious and Tropical Diseases Research Center, Health Research Institute; Department of Parasitology, School of Medicine, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of MedicalSciences, Ahvaz, Iran.
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20
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Srichaipon N, Nuchprayoon S, Charuchaibovorn S, Sukkapan P, Sanprasert V. A Simple Genotyping Method for Rapid Differentiation of Blastocystis Subtypes and Subtype Distribution of Blastocystis spp. in Thailand. Pathogens 2019; 8:pathogens8010038. [PMID: 30901902 PMCID: PMC6471993 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens8010038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2019] [Revised: 03/19/2019] [Accepted: 03/20/2019] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Blastocystis spp. is one of the most common protozoa of humans and animals worldwide. The genetic diversity of Blastocystis spp. might be associated with a wide range of symptoms. However, the prevalence of each subtype is different in each country. Until now, there is no standard method for subtyping of Blastocystis spp. We developed a sequential restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) analysis for the rapid differentiation of human Blastocystis subtypes. A large-scale study was also conducted to determine the subtype distribution of Blastocystis spp. in Thailand. Stool samples were collected from 1025 school-age students in four regions of Thailand. Blastocystis infections were identified by direct smear, formalin ethyl-acetate concentration technique (FECT), Boeck and Drbohlav’s Locke-Egg-Serum (LES) medium culture, and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) of small-subunit ribosomal DNA (SSU rDNA). Subtypes of Blastocystis spp. were determined by RFLP. Phylogenetic tree of partial SSU rDNA sequences of Blastocystis spp. was constructed using the Maximum Likelihood (ML) method. Out of 1025 students, 416 (40.6%) were positive for Blastocystis spp. Using two steps of RFLP reactions, we could determine subtype one–three among these students. Subtype 3 was the most common subtype (58.72%) in Thai students, followed by subtype 1 (31.2%), and subtype 2 (10.1%). Blastocystis subtype 3 was the most prevalent in all regions of Thailand. The subtype distribution of Blastocystis spp. in Thailand was different from other countries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nittaya Srichaipon
- Lymphatic Filariasis and Tropical Medicine Research Unit, Chulalongkorn Medical Research Center, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand.
| | - Surang Nuchprayoon
- Lymphatic Filariasis and Tropical Medicine Research Unit, Chulalongkorn Medical Research Center, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand.
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand.
| | - Sarit Charuchaibovorn
- Lymphatic Filariasis and Tropical Medicine Research Unit, Chulalongkorn Medical Research Center, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand.
| | - Pattadon Sukkapan
- Program of Biology, Faculty of Science, Chandrakasem Rajabhat University, Bangkok 10900, Thailand.
| | - Vivornpun Sanprasert
- Lymphatic Filariasis and Tropical Medicine Research Unit, Chulalongkorn Medical Research Center, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand.
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand.
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