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Asghari A, Yousefi A, Badali R, Mohammadi MR, Shamsi L, Maleki F, Bahrami AM. First molecular subtyping and zoonotic significance of Blastocystis sp. in Dromedary (C. dromedarius) and Bactrian (C. bactrianus) camels in Iran: A molecular epidemiology and review of available literature. Vet Med Sci 2024; 10:e1442. [PMID: 38578271 PMCID: PMC10996919 DOI: 10.1002/vms3.1442] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2023] [Revised: 02/23/2024] [Accepted: 03/24/2024] [Indexed: 04/06/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Blastocystis sp. is a zoonotic protozoan parasite, and there is limited information about its molecular prevalence and subtypes (STs) distribution in camels globally, especially in Iran. OBJECTIVES This study aimed to examine the prevalence, STs distribution, and zoonotic potential of Blastocystis sp. in one-humped and two-humped camels in Ardabil province, northwestern Iran. METHODS A PCR-sequencing tool using the SSU rRNA gene was employed to examine the occurrence and genetic variation of Blastocystis sp. in 150 faecal samples from Bactrian (Camelus bactrianus, 50 samples) and Dromedary (Camelus dromedarius, 100 samples) camels in Ardabil province. RESULTS The overall prevalence of Blastocystis sp. in camels was determined to be 12% (18/150) through microscopy and PCR analyses. Phylogenetically, this study identified three distinct zoonotic STs: ST7, ST10, and ST14. ST10 was the most prevalent, comprising 50% (9/18) of the isolated STs from camels. ST14 closely followed with 38.9% (7/18), while ST7 made up 11.1% (2/18) of the total STs. In brief, ST10, ST14, and ST7 represented 50% (7/14), 35.7% (5/14), and 14.3% (2/14) of the Blastocystis-positive cases in one-humped camels, respectively. Further, each of the ST10 and ST14 accounted for 50% (2/4) of the Blastocystis-positive samples in two-humped camels. An analysis of the available data reveals that out of the 37-44 identified Blastocystis STs, 15 (ST1-ST7, ST10, ST14, ST15, ST21, ST24, ST25, ST26, and ST30) have been reported in camels. The predominant STs observed are ST10 and ST14. Furthermore, among the 15 zoonotic STs (ST1-ST10, ST12-ST14, ST16, and ST23) of Blastocystis reported thus far, nine zoonotic STs (ST1-ST7, ST10, and ST14) have been found in camels. CONCLUSIONS These findings indicate that camels serve as a proper reservoir for a diverse array of Blastocystis STs and thereby can play a significant role in the transmission of this protozoan infection to humans, animals, and water reservoirs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali Asghari
- Zoonoses Research CenterArdabil University of Medical SciencesArdabilIran
| | | | - Roya Badali
- Department of Pharmaceutical BiotechnologyUniversity of PaviaPaviaItaly
| | | | - Laya Shamsi
- Faculty of Veterinary MedicineDepartment of Pathobiology, Urmia UniversityUrmiaIran
| | - Farajolah Maleki
- Clinical Research Development UnitShahid Mostafa Khomeini Hospital, Ilam University of Medical SciencesIlamIran
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Ercan N, Yildirim A, Duzlu O. Molecular detection and genotyping of Dientamoeba fragilis and Blastocystis sp. in housefly Musca domestica (Diptera: Muscidae): first report for Dientamoeba fragilis. Parasitol Res 2024; 123:183. [PMID: 38622363 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-024-08202-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2024] [Accepted: 04/02/2024] [Indexed: 04/17/2024]
Abstract
Dientamoeba fragilis and Blastocystis sp. are single-celled protozoan parasites of humans and animals. Although they are found in the intestines of healthy hosts, the pathogenicity of them is still unclear. To date, there is no report on D. fragilis and only two studies (without subtyping) on the occurrence of Blastocystis sp. in Musca domestica. In this study, fly samples were collected from livestock farms and their surroundings in the Kirsehir province (Central Anatolia Region) of Türkiye from May to August 2023. A total of 150 microscopically identified M. domestica samples were analyzed for the detection of D. fragilis and Blastocystis sp. molecularly. The overall prevalence of Blastocystis sp. and D. fragilis in M. domestica was determined to be 3.3% (5/150) and 8.0% (12/150), respectively. The SSU rRNA gene sequences of the isolates indicated genotype 1 of D. fragilis. Eleven isolates were identical and represented a single isolate (KAU-Dfrag1). BLAST analysis of KAU-Dfrag1 indicated identity with the isolates reported from humans, cattle, sheep, and budgerigars. The other isolate (KAU-Dfrag2) was polymorphic at two nucleotides from KAU-Dfrag1 and three nucleotides from known genotypes from GenBank and represented a variant of genotype 1. The Blastocystis sp. isolates were found to be identical and represent a single genotype (KAU-Blast1). BLAST analysis revealed that the KAU-Blast1 genotype belonged to the potentially zoonotic subtype 5 (ST5) and exhibited the highest genetic identity (ranging from 99.4 to 99.6%) with pigs, cattle, and sheep from different countries. Our study provides the first data on the molecular prevalence, epidemiology, and genotypic characterization of D. fragilis and Blastocystis sp. in M. domestica.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nuri Ercan
- Faculty of Agriculture, Kirsehir Ahi Evran University, Kirsehir, Turkey.
| | - Alparslan Yildirim
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Erciyes University, Kayseri, Turkey
| | - Onder Duzlu
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Erciyes University, Kayseri, Turkey
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Leonardi SS, Tan KSW. Blastocystis: view from atop the gut-brain iceberg. Trends Parasitol 2024; 40:1-4. [PMID: 37980258 DOI: 10.1016/j.pt.2023.10.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2023] [Revised: 10/19/2023] [Accepted: 10/19/2023] [Indexed: 11/20/2023]
Abstract
Blastocystis is a common intestinal parasite that has been linked to gut pathology in humans. In this article, we highlight recent publications that offer insight into how these organisms can influence human cognition and the gut microbiome. We also suggest a potential mechanism of action by which this might occur.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steven Santino Leonardi
- Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Parasitology, Healthy Longevity Translational Research Programme and Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, 5 Science Drive 2, Singapore 117545, Singapore
| | - Kevin Shyong-Wei Tan
- Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Parasitology, Healthy Longevity Translational Research Programme and Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, 5 Science Drive 2, Singapore 117545, Singapore.
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Gezici A, Taş Cengiz Z, Yılmaz H, Aydemir S. The Significance of Opportunistic Parasitosis and Blastocystosis in Patients with Gastric Cancer: a Study with Control Group. Turkiye Parazitol Derg 2023; 47:220-223. [PMID: 38149442 DOI: 10.4274/tpd.galenos.2023.33042] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2023]
Abstract
Objective The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of opportunistic parasites and Blastocystis spp. in patients with gastric cancer (CA) and to determine the significance of these parasite. Methods The patient group and the control group were composed of 100 people each. The stool samples were examined under the microscope for intestinal parasites with the native-Lugol method. Then, samples were multiplied by formol-ethyl acetate method and stained with modified acid-fast method. Results Intestinal parasite positivity was indicated in 14% of the gastric CA, and 2% of the healthy individuals (p=0.001). Blastocystis spp. (p=0.009) was identified in 11%, Cryptosporidium spp. was identified in 4%, G. intestinalis was identified in 2%, and C. cayetanensis was identified in 1% of the patient group. There were significant differences between the intestinal parasite positivity (p=0.012), abundant Blastocystis spp. positivity (p=0.041) and all Blastocystis spp. positivity (p=0.037) in patient and control groups. Most of the patients who were positive for parasites had diarrhea. Conclusion Based findings, it was concluded that it would be beneficial to evaluate gastric CA patients, especially those with diarrhea, for intestinal parasites.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anıl Gezici
- Erzincan Binali Yıldırım University, Vocational School of Kemaliye Hacı Ali Akın, Division of Veterinary, Erzincan, Türkiye
| | - Zeynep Taş Cengiz
- Van Yüzüncü Yıl University Faculty of Medicine, Department of Parasitology, Van, Türkiye
| | - Hasan Yılmaz
- Van Yüzüncü Yıl University Faculty of Medicine, Department of Parasitology, Van, Türkiye
| | - Selahattin Aydemir
- Van Yüzüncü Yıl University Faculty of Medicine, Department of Parasitology, Van, Türkiye
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Gureser AS, Karasartova D, Sarzhanov F, Kosar N, Taylan-Ozkan A, Dogruman-Al F. Prevalence of Blastocystis and Dientamoeba fragilis in diarrheal patients in Corum, Türkiye. Parasitol Res 2023; 122:2977-2987. [PMID: 37779160 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-023-07987-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2023] [Accepted: 09/24/2023] [Indexed: 10/03/2023]
Abstract
To investigate the prevalence of Blastocystis and Dientamoeba fragilis in diarrhea patients and healthy individuals in Corum, Türkiye, fecal samples from 92 diarrhea patients and 50 healthy individuals were collected and evaluated using direct microscopy and molecular methods to screen for bacteria, protozoa, and viruses. The prevalence of Blastocystis was 24.6% in total and more frequent in the healthy group (30.0%). The commonly detected STs (subtypes) were ST3 (40.0%) and ST2 (34.2%). The distribution of Blastocystis STs in the healthy and diarrheal groups did not show any difference in sex and age, but ST3 was detected more frequently in patients aged from 40 to 59 years (p < 0.05). Alleles 4 (8/12) and 2 (4/12) were present in ST1; 9 (3/5) and 12 (2/5) in ST2; 34 (9/14), 36 (3/14), and 38 (2/14) in ST3; and only allele 42 (2/2) in ST4. D. fragilis was present in 8.4% of the population. However, there was no statistically significant difference between the healthy and diarrheic groups (12.0% and 6.5%, respectively), neither with respect to age nor sex. Co-infection was 58.3% and was more frequent in healthy individuals (33.3%) than in diarrhea patients (25.0%). Blastocystis ST3 was the most common subtype detected, with D. fragilis at 33.3%. Salmonella, Shigella, or helminth eggs were not observed in all groups, but Entamoeba histolytica, Giardia intestinalis, Cryptosporidium, Rotavirus, Adenovirus, and Clostridium difficile toxin were found only in diarrhea patients. These findings support the hypothesis that Blastocystis and D. fragilis may be part of the healthy human gut microbiome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayşe Semra Gureser
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Abdurrahman Yurtaslan Ankara Oncology Training and Research Hospital, Ministry of Health, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Djursun Karasartova
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Hitit University, Corum, Turkey
| | - Fakhiriddin Sarzhanov
- Faculty of Medicine, Khoja Akhmet Yassawi International Kazakh-Turkish University, Turkistan, Kazakhstan
- Division of Medical Parasitology, Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Gazi University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Nezahat Kosar
- Microbiology Laboratory, Erbaa Governmental Hospital, Tokat, Turkey
| | - Aysegul Taylan-Ozkan
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, TOBB-University of Economics and Technology, Ankara, Turkey.
| | - Funda Dogruman-Al
- Division of Medical Parasitology, Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Gazi University, Ankara, Turkey
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Marangi M, Boughattas S, De Nittis R, Pisanelli D, Delli Carri V, Lipsi MR, La Bella G, Serviddio G, Niglio M, Lo Caputo S, Margaglione M, Arena F. Prevalence and genetic diversity of Blastocystis sp. among autochthonous and immigrant patients in Italy. Microb Pathog 2023; 185:106377. [PMID: 37839760 DOI: 10.1016/j.micpath.2023.106377] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2023] [Revised: 10/01/2023] [Accepted: 10/02/2023] [Indexed: 10/17/2023]
Abstract
The prevalence of Blastocystis sp., its genetic diversity and the distribution of circulating subtypes (STs) were molecularly investigated in a cohort of autochthonous and immigrant patients with gastrointestinal symptoms hospitalized over the period February 2022-June 2023 at the Policlinico Ospedaliero-Universitario "Riuniti", Foggia, in Southern Italy. The population variables, including patient geographical origin, gender and age classes were reported. Out of the 927 investigated patients, 36 (3.9%) were positive for Blastocystis sp. A statistically significant association with African origin and age classes >18 years old was found. ST1 (allele 4), ST2 (alleles 9, 13), ST3 (alleles 34, 36) and ST4 (allele 92) were the subtypes detected with a different distribution between autochthonous and immigrant patients. Co-infections with enteric protozoa such as Giardia duodenalis and Dientamoeba fragilis, pathogenic bacteria as Clostridioides difficile, Campylobacter jejuni and Aeromonas sp. and viral infections such as Norovirus were found in 33% of cases. This is the first study of Blastocystis sp., its circulating subtypes and allele variability among patients with different geographical origin in an area of Southern Italy, in the Central Mediterranean, characterized by high immigrant pressure. These results provide baseline data to better investigate a potential interaction between Blastocystis sp. and other risk factors in patients with gastrointestinal symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marianna Marangi
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Foggia, Viale Luigi Pinto, 71122, Foggia, Italy.
| | | | - Rosella De Nittis
- Microbiology and Virology Unit, Ospedali Riuniti, Viale Luigi Pinto, 71122, Foggia, Italy.
| | - Daniela Pisanelli
- Microbiology and Virology Unit, Ospedali Riuniti, Viale Luigi Pinto, 71122, Foggia, Italy.
| | - Valeria Delli Carri
- Microbiology and Virology Unit, Ospedali Riuniti, Viale Luigi Pinto, 71122, Foggia, Italy.
| | - Maria Rosaria Lipsi
- Microbiology and Virology Unit, Ospedali Riuniti, Viale Luigi Pinto, 71122, Foggia, Italy.
| | - Gianfranco La Bella
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Foggia, Viale Luigi Pinto, 71122, Foggia, Italy; Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Puglia e della Basilicata, Via Manfredonia 20, Foggia, Italy.
| | - Gaetano Serviddio
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Foggia, Viale Luigi Pinto, 71122, Foggia, Italy.
| | - Mariangela Niglio
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Foggia, Viale Luigi Pinto, 71122, Foggia, Italy.
| | - Sergio Lo Caputo
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Foggia, Viale Luigi Pinto, 71122, Foggia, Italy.
| | - Maurizio Margaglione
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Foggia, Viale Luigi Pinto, 71122, Foggia, Italy.
| | - Fabio Arena
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Foggia, Viale Luigi Pinto, 71122, Foggia, Italy; Microbiology and Virology Unit, Ospedali Riuniti, Viale Luigi Pinto, 71122, Foggia, Italy.
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7
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Han N, Peng X, Qiang Y, Zhang T, Li X, Zhang W. Genetic characteristics of Blastocystis sp. ST3 at the genome level in the Chinese population. Parasitol Res 2023; 122:2719-2727. [PMID: 37715083 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-023-07973-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2023] [Accepted: 09/07/2023] [Indexed: 09/17/2023]
Abstract
The gut microbiota comprises the collective genomes of microbial symbionts and is composed of bacteria, fungi, viruses, and protists within the gastrointestinal tract of a host. Although the literature associated with gut microbiota is increasing, studies on eukaryotes in the human gut are just beginning to surface. Blastocystis is one of the most common intestinal parasites of humans and animals and is estimated to colonise more than 1 billion people on a global scale. However, the understanding of the genetic characteristics of Blastocystis subtype (ST) at the genome level and its relationship with other members of the gut microbiota is still limited. In this study, by surveying the prevalence and genome characteristics of Blastocystis sp. ST3 in a Chinese population (prevalence % = 6.09%), the association of Blastocystis sp. ST3 with region and time and the structure of the resident gut bacterial population was clarified. We identified novel sequences (50 mitochondrial and 41 genome sequences) and determined their genetic diversity amongst strains within Blastocystis sp. ST3 (4.14 SNPs/kb). Furthermore, we found that colonisation of Blastocystis was strongly associated with increased bacterial richness and higher abundance of several anaerobes. Finally, we performed time series sampling on two Blastocystis-positive individuals and confirmed that Blastocystis could exist continually in the human gut microbiota and persist for a long time, even for 4 years.
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Affiliation(s)
- Na Han
- National Key Laboratory of Intelligent Tracking and Forecasting for Infectious Diseases, National Institute for Communicable Disease Control and Prevention, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Beijing, 102206, China
| | - Xianhui Peng
- National Key Laboratory of Intelligent Tracking and Forecasting for Infectious Diseases, National Institute for Communicable Disease Control and Prevention, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Beijing, 102206, China
| | - Yujun Qiang
- National Key Laboratory of Intelligent Tracking and Forecasting for Infectious Diseases, National Institute for Communicable Disease Control and Prevention, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Beijing, 102206, China
| | - Tingting Zhang
- National Key Laboratory of Intelligent Tracking and Forecasting for Infectious Diseases, National Institute for Communicable Disease Control and Prevention, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Beijing, 102206, China
| | - Xiuwen Li
- National Key Laboratory of Intelligent Tracking and Forecasting for Infectious Diseases, National Institute for Communicable Disease Control and Prevention, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Beijing, 102206, China
| | - Wen Zhang
- National Key Laboratory of Intelligent Tracking and Forecasting for Infectious Diseases, National Institute for Communicable Disease Control and Prevention, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Beijing, 102206, China.
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Garcia-Montoya GM, Galvan-Diaz AL, Alzate JF. Metataxomics reveals Blastocystis subtypes mixed infections in Colombian children. Infect Genet Evol 2023; 113:105478. [PMID: 37406785 DOI: 10.1016/j.meegid.2023.105478] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2023] [Revised: 06/29/2023] [Accepted: 07/01/2023] [Indexed: 07/07/2023]
Abstract
Blastocystis sp., is an intestinal protist with a broad host range and a high prevalence in human populations worldwide, even in developed Western countries. The publication of conflicting evidence has divided the scientific community about the pathogenic role of this parasite. Even though, genetic studies on Blastocystis sp. revealed associations between genotypes and different pathogenic profiles. Conventionally, the detection of this parasite is based on microscopic or PCR methods, which offer meager or null performance in detecting mixed infections. In this work, we applied a metataxonomic NGS approach targeting the V4 region of the eukaryotic SSU-rRNA gene and classical phylogenetic methods. This approach allowed us to detect Blastocystis sp. in stool samples from infected children living in an urban setting in the city of Medellin attending the same daycare center. Phylogenetic analysis identified the subtypes present in the children as ST1, ST2, and ST3. Besides, mixed infections of subtypes ST1 + ST3 were spotted in 16% of the analyzed stool samples.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gisela M Garcia-Montoya
- Centro Nacional de Secuenciación Genómica CNSG, Sede de Investigación Universitaria-SIU, Medellín, Colombia; Departamento de Microbiología y Parasitología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Antioquia, Medellín, Colombia; Grupo Pediaciencias, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Antioquia, Medellín, Colombia
| | - Ana L Galvan-Diaz
- Grupo de Microbiología ambiental, Escuela de Microbiología, Universidad de Antioquia, Colombia
| | - Juan F Alzate
- Centro Nacional de Secuenciación Genómica CNSG, Sede de Investigación Universitaria-SIU, Medellín, Colombia; Departamento de Microbiología y Parasitología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Antioquia, Medellín, Colombia; Grupo Pediaciencias, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Antioquia, Medellín, Colombia.
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Tantrawatpan C, Vaisusuk K, Thanchomnang T, Pilap W, Sankamethawee W, Suksavate W, Chatan W, Bunchom N, Kaewkla O, Stensvold CR, Saijuntha W. Distribution of Blastocystis subtypes isolated from various animal hosts in Thailand. Res Vet Sci 2023; 162:104939. [PMID: 37453229 DOI: 10.1016/j.rvsc.2023.06.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2022] [Revised: 05/15/2023] [Accepted: 06/16/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023]
Abstract
Blastocystis is a parasitic protist of a variety of hosts, including humans. Mapping the distribution of Blastocystis and its genetic variants across different host species can help us understand the epidemiology of this organism and its role in health and disease. This study aimed to identify subtypes of Blastocystis detected in different animal hosts in Thailand. A total of 825 fecal samples belonging to 18 vertebrate orders, 36 families, 68 genera, and 80 species were collected. Of these, 111 specimens were Blastocystis-positive by culture. Seventy-nine samples were subjected to small subunit (SSU) ribosomal DNA amplification by PCR, and reliable subtype data were obtained for 61 specimens. At least 14 subtypes (ST), namely ST1 to ST10, ST14/ST24/ST25 complex, ST23, ST26, and ST29 were detected. In addition, Blastocystis was found in tortoises. ST1 (3.2%) and ST5 (11.5%) were found in pigs, ST2 (1.6%) and ST3 (3.2%) in non-human primates, ST4 (14.7%) in rodents and ruminants, ST6 (4.9%), ST7 (30%), ST9 (1.6%), and ST29 (1.6%) in birds, ST8 (6.6%) in Green peafowl and East Asian Porcupine, and ST10 (4.9%), ST14/ST24/ST25 (9.8%), ST23 (1.6%) and ST26 (1.6%) in ruminants. The sequence recovered from the elongated tortoises (Indotestudo elongata) (3.2%) was phylogenetically placed within the reptilian cluster of Blastocystis, for which no subtype system is available yet. Of note, we did not obtain Blastocystis sequences from any of the many canids and felids sampled in the study, and our data are in support of host specificity of Blastocystis, according to both colonization and subtype distribution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chairat Tantrawatpan
- Division of Cell Biology, Department of Preclinical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, and Center of Excellence in Stem Cell Research, Thammasat University, Rangsit Campus, Pathum Thani 12120, Thailand
| | - Kotchaphon Vaisusuk
- Department of Veterinary Technology and Veterinary Nursing, Faculty of Agricultural Technology, Rajabhat Maha Sarakham University, Maha Sarakham 44000, Thailand
| | | | - Warayutt Pilap
- Walai Rukhavej Botanical Research Institute, Mahasarakham University, Maha Sarakham 44150, Thailand; Center of Excellence in Biodiversity Research, Mahasarakham University, Maha Sarakham 44150, Thailand
| | - Wangworn Sankamethawee
- Department of Environmental Science, Faculty of Science, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen 40002, Thailand
| | - Warong Suksavate
- Department of Forest Biology, Faculty of Forestry, Kasetsart University, Bangkok 10900, Thailand
| | - Wasupon Chatan
- Department of Veterinary Clinic, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, Mahasarakham University, Maha Sarakham 44000, Thailand; Center of Excellence in Biodiversity Research, Mahasarakham University, Maha Sarakham 44150, Thailand
| | - Naruemon Bunchom
- Walai Rukhavej Botanical Research Institute, Mahasarakham University, Maha Sarakham 44150, Thailand
| | - Onuma Kaewkla
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Mahasarakham University, Maha Sarakham 44150, Thailand; Center of Excellence in Biodiversity Research, Mahasarakham University, Maha Sarakham 44150, Thailand
| | - Christen Rune Stensvold
- Laboratory of Parasitology, Department of Bacteria, Parasites and Fungi, Statens Serum Institut, Artillerivej 5, Copenhagen S DK-2300, Denmark
| | - Weerachai Saijuntha
- Walai Rukhavej Botanical Research Institute, Mahasarakham University, Maha Sarakham 44150, Thailand; Center of Excellence in Biodiversity Research, Mahasarakham University, Maha Sarakham 44150, Thailand.
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Santin M, Molokin A, Maloney JG. A longitudinal study of Blastocystis in dairy calves from birth through 24 months demonstrates dynamic shifts in infection rates and subtype prevalence and diversity by age. Parasit Vectors 2023; 16:177. [PMID: 37264466 PMCID: PMC10236725 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-023-05795-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2023] [Accepted: 05/02/2023] [Indexed: 06/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Blastocystis is a common microeukaryotic intestinal parasite in humans and other animal hosts globally. However, no large-scale longitudinal study has ever been conducted for Blastocystis. To understand patterns of infection prevalence and subtype diversity and their relationship with host age, we have conducted the most comprehensive longitudinal study of Blastocystis infection ever performed. Dairy calves from a herd located in Maryland, USA, were followed from birth through 24 months of age, and 990 individual fecal samples from 30 calves were collected over the study period, representing three age groups (pre-weaned, post-weaned, and heifer). All samples were screened for Blastocystis via PCR, and subtype determination was performed using next-generation amplicon sequencing. Associations between age group and infection status were assessed using logistic regression analyses. Blastocystis infection prevalence increased with time, significant associations were observed between age groups and infection risk, and a cumulative prevalence of 100% was observed among the study population during the 24-month period. Thirteen previously reported subtypes (ST1-6, ST10, ST14, ST21, ST23-26) and one potentially novel subtype were observed. Diversity within ST10 supports the need for division of the subtype into new subtype designations. Associations between subtype and age group were explored, and relationships between subtypes and infection chronicity are described. While subtype diversity increased with age in the study population, distinct patterns of individual subtype prevalence and chronicity were observed, supporting the importance of subtype discrimination in studies of host infection and disease. The data from this study represent a significant advance in our understanding of Blastocystis infection dynamics within a single host population over time and can be used to inform future studies of Blastocystis epidemiology in both humans and other animal hosts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monica Santin
- Environmental Microbial and Food Safety Laboratory, Agricultural Research Service, United States Department of Agriculture, Beltsville, MD USA
| | - Aleksey Molokin
- Environmental Microbial and Food Safety Laboratory, Agricultural Research Service, United States Department of Agriculture, Beltsville, MD USA
| | - Jenny G. Maloney
- Environmental Microbial and Food Safety Laboratory, Agricultural Research Service, United States Department of Agriculture, Beltsville, MD USA
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Cobuccio LG, Laurent M, Gardiol C, Wampfler R, Poppert S, Senn N, Eperon G, Genton B, Locatelli I, de Vallière S. Should we treat Blastocystis sp.? A double-blind placebo-controlled randomized pilot trial. J Travel Med 2023; 30:6849435. [PMID: 36440639 DOI: 10.1093/jtm/taac143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2022] [Revised: 11/22/2022] [Accepted: 11/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Blastocystis sp. is a worldwide-distributed protist colonizing the guts of humans and a great variety of animals. It is unclear whether it is just a commensal or an infectious parasite that prompts eradication.The main objective of this study was to evaluate the usefulness of metronidazole in patients with gastrointestinal symptoms harbouring only Blastocystis sp. In addition, we explored whether Blastocystis subtype or concomitant parasitic infection detected by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) may influence treatment outcome. METHODS We included adults with persistent gastrointestinal symptoms (>14 days) visiting a primary care physician and in whom stool microscopy revealed only Blastocystis sp. Eligible patients were randomized to receive 10 days of metronidazole or placebo, followed by a crossover if still symptomatic. The primary outcome was normal stool consistency. Secondary outcomes were the changes in other abdominal symptoms (bloating, flatulence, abdominal pain, number of daily bowel movements) and general wellbeing. After the clinical phase of the study, Blastocystis subtypes were determined by PCR sequencing and stool samples were tested for 11 other protozoa with an in-house PCR. RESULTS We screened 581 outpatients for inclusion, of which 50 met the eligibility criteria. There was no difference in the primary outcome, nor any of the secondary outcomes between the subjects treated with metronidazole and placebo.The most frequent Blastocystis subtypes were ST4 (11/36) and ST2 (10/36). The in-house PCR was positive for other protozoa in 25% (10/40) of the patients. We identified Dientamoeba fragilis in 5, Entamoeba dispar in 3 and Cyclospora cayetanensis in 2 patients. Stratified analysis according to Blastocystis subtype or the presence of other protozoa showed no significant difference in treatment outcome with metronidazole or placebo. CONCLUSIONS Among patients infected with Blastocystis sp., metronidazole, compared with placebo, was not better in improving gastrointestinal symptoms, irrespective of subtype or microscopically undetected coinfection with other protozoa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ludovico Gennaro Cobuccio
- Travel Clinic, Centre for Primary Care and Public Health (Unisanté), Lausanne, Switzerland
- Faculty of Biology and Medicine, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Marie Laurent
- Faculty of Biology and Medicine, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Celine Gardiol
- Travel Clinic, Centre for Primary Care and Public Health (Unisanté), Lausanne, Switzerland
- Faculty of Biology and Medicine, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Rahel Wampfler
- Diagnostic Center, Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Basel, Switzerland
- University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Sven Poppert
- Diagnostic Center, Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Basel, Switzerland
- University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Nicolas Senn
- Travel Clinic, Centre for Primary Care and Public Health (Unisanté), Lausanne, Switzerland
- Faculty of Biology and Medicine, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Gilles Eperon
- Division of Tropical and Humanitarian Medicine, Geneva University Hospitals, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Blaise Genton
- Travel Clinic, Centre for Primary Care and Public Health (Unisanté), Lausanne, Switzerland
- Faculty of Biology and Medicine, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
- Department of Research and Innovation, Centre for Primary Care and Public Health (Unisanté), Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Isabella Locatelli
- Department of Research and Innovation, Centre for Primary Care and Public Health (Unisanté), Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Serge de Vallière
- Travel Clinic, Centre for Primary Care and Public Health (Unisanté), Lausanne, Switzerland
- Faculty of Biology and Medicine, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
- Infectious Diseases Service, University Hospital, Lausanne, Switzerland
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Attah AO, Sanggari A, Li LI, Nik Him NAII, Ismail AH, Meor Termizi FH. Blastocystis occurrence in water sources worldwide from 2005 to 2022: a review. Parasitol Res 2023; 122:1-10. [PMID: 36434314 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-022-07731-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2022] [Accepted: 11/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
There has been increasing interest in the study of Blastocystis in the last two decades. Many studies have been carried out in human and animal hosts including environmental sources, but there is little or no information on the occurrence of Blastocystis in water sources worldwide. Therefore, this study aimed at assessing the occurrence of Blastocystis in water sources across the world from 2005 to 2022, noting the method of detection and the distribution of the subtypes from various water sources. A literature search was performed on internet-based databases including Google search, PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science. Upon application of the criteria for inclusion, 25 articles revealing the occurrence of Blastocystis in water sources in 15 countries were included in the review. Blastocystis occurrence varies across water sources ranging from 0% in a drinking water source in Venezuela to 100% in rivers; well water, stored water, and fishpond in Nepal and Malaysia; and fountain water, irrigation water, and rainwater in Italy, Spain, and Thailand. The occurrence of the parasite was significantly associated with the coliform count, temperature, conductivity, dissolved oxygen, turbidity, total dissolved solids, and chemical oxygen demand. A total of 11 Blastocystis subtypes were identified in water sources worldwide, namely, ST1-ST8, ST10, ST23, and ST26 in which ST1 and ST3 were the most prevalent subtypes. Considering the importance of Blastocystis as a waterborne parasite, the subtype distribution and morphological distinction in water sources need to be carried out using molecular and electron microscopic techniques. Existing studies have covered only about 10% of the world's countries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Achigili Okau Attah
- School of Biological Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, 11800, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
- Waziri Umaru Federal Polytechnic, Birnin Kebbi, P. M. B. 1034, Kebbi State, Nigeria
| | - Anamalai Sanggari
- School of Biological Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, 11800, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
| | - Lee Ii Li
- Kulliyyah of Medicine & Health Sciences, Universiti Islam Antarabangsa Sultan Abdul Halim Mu'adzam Shah, Kuala Ketil, 09300, Kedah, Malaysia
| | | | - Azma Hanim Ismail
- School of Biological Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, 11800, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
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Darwish B, Aboualchamat G, Al Nahhas S. Molecular characterization of Blastocystis subtypes in symptomatic patients from the southern region of Syria. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0283291. [PMID: 36928869 PMCID: PMC10019620 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0283291] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2022] [Accepted: 03/03/2023] [Indexed: 03/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Blastocystis sp. is an enteric protist found in humans and a wide range of animal hosts. Genetic variations were established among the 38 different subtypes detected so far, 14 of which are commonly found in human and animal hosts. The aim of the present study is to estimate the prevalence of the common Blastocystis subtypes and evaluate the possible correlation with several variables (gender, age, symptoms, domestic animals…), among patients from the southern region of Syria. Fecal samples were collected from individuals suffering from gastrointestinal complaints. Microscopic examination along with genotype analyses using seven pairs of subtype-specific primers was performed. Our results revealed the presence of Blastocystis sp. in 46 isolates out of the 60 samples microscopically studied (76.7%); single infection was detected in 24 isolates whereas co-infection with other protozoa was identified in 22 ones. Molecular detection targeting the SSU rRNA gene revealed a 100% positive presence of Blastocystis sp. in all the samples. Genotyping results detected the presence of five different subtypes (ST1-ST5) with varying proportions. However, ST1 was the dominant subtype observed (66.7%). Mixed subtype infections were found in 9 isolates (15%). Three samples remained undefined, nonetheless. Our statistical results showed no significant correlation between Blastocystis STs infection and the different studied variables. In conclusion, this study provides the first genetic characterization of Blastocystis subtypes prevalence in patients from the southern region of Syria. ST1 distribution was highly predominant. Further molecular studies are needed to estimate the prevalence of Blastocystis sp. infection in other regions in Syria and to understand the epidemiology and sources of transmission to humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Buthaina Darwish
- Department of Animal Biology, Faculty of Science, Damascus University, Damascus, Syria
| | - Ghalia Aboualchamat
- Department of Animal Biology, Faculty of Science, Damascus University, Damascus, Syria
| | - Samar Al Nahhas
- Department of Animal Biology, Faculty of Science, Damascus University, Damascus, Syria
- * E-mail: ,
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14
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Barati M, KarimiPourSaryazdi A, Rahmanian V, Bahadory S, Abdoli A, Rezanezhad H, Solhjoo K, Taghipour A. Global prevalence and subtype distribution of Blastocystis sp. in rodents, birds, and water supplies: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Prev Vet Med 2022; 208:105770. [PMID: 36181747 DOI: 10.1016/j.prevetmed.2022.105770] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2022] [Revised: 09/21/2022] [Accepted: 09/23/2022] [Indexed: 10/31/2022]
Abstract
Animals such as rodents and birds may play a key role in the distribution of Blastocystis sp., either as introducers of the parasite into the water or as receptors of an infection already established in the water. Hence, we aimed to evaluate the prevalence and subtype distributions of Blastocystis sp. in rodents, birds, and water supplies at a global scale through a systematic review and meta-analysis approach. The standard protocol of preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses (PRISMA) statements were applied. Eligible prevalence studies on Blastocystis sp. in rodents, birds, and water supplies, published between 1 January 2000 and 20 January 2022 were collected using a systematic literature search in online databases (Scopus and Web of Science) and search engines (PubMed and Google Scholar). Inclusion and exclusion criteria were followed. The point estimates and 95% confidence intervals (CI) were calculated using a random-effects model. The variances between studies (heterogeneity) were computed by I2 index. In total, 20 articles (24 datasets) for birds, 18 articles (18 datasets) for rodents, and 10 articles (12 datasets) for water supply were included for the final meta-analysis. The pooled prevalence of Blastocystis sp. in birds, rodents, and water was estimated to be 29% (95% CI 12-47%), 18% (95% CI 12-23%), and 10% (95% CI 6%-15%), respectively. Considering the subtypes, Blastocystis sp. with subtypes ST7 in birds, ST4 in rodents, and ST1 in water supplies were the highest reported subtypes. The present results highlight the role of birds, rodents, and water as a reservoir for human-infected Blastocystis sp. Therefore, this global estimate could be beneficial for preventive and control measures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Barati
- Infectious Diseases Research Center, AJA University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Amir KarimiPourSaryazdi
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Vahid Rahmanian
- Research Center for Social Determinants of Health, Jahrom University of Medical Sciences, Jahrom, Iran
| | - Saeed Bahadory
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Amir Abdoli
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, Jahrom University of Medical Sciences, Jahrom, Iran; Zoonoses Research Center, Jahrom University of Medical Sciences, Jahrom, Iran.
| | - Hassan Rezanezhad
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, Jahrom University of Medical Sciences, Jahrom, Iran; Zoonoses Research Center, Jahrom University of Medical Sciences, Jahrom, Iran
| | - Kavous Solhjoo
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, Jahrom University of Medical Sciences, Jahrom, Iran; Zoonoses Research Center, Jahrom University of Medical Sciences, Jahrom, Iran
| | - Ali Taghipour
- Zoonoses Research Center, Jahrom University of Medical Sciences, Jahrom, Iran.
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15
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Mayneris-Perxachs J, Arnoriaga-Rodríguez M, Garre-Olmo J, Puig J, Ramos R, Trelis M, Burokas A, Coll C, Zapata-Tona C, Pedraza S, Pérez-Brocal V, Ramió L, Ricart W, Moya A, Jové M, Sol J, Portero-Otin M, Pamplona R, Maldonado R, Fernández-Real JM. Presence of Blastocystis in gut microbiota is associated with cognitive traits and decreased executive function. ISME J 2022; 16:2181-2197. [PMID: 35729225 PMCID: PMC9381544 DOI: 10.1038/s41396-022-01262-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2021] [Revised: 05/17/2022] [Accepted: 05/31/2022] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
Growing evidence implicates the gut microbiome in cognition. Blastocystis is a common gut single-cell eukaryote parasite frequently detected in humans but its potential involvement in human pathophysiology has been poorly characterized. Here we describe how the presence of Blastocystis in the gut microbiome was associated with deficits in executive function and altered gut bacterial composition in a discovery (n = 114) and replication cohorts (n = 942). We also found that Blastocystis was linked to bacterial functions related to aromatic amino acids metabolism and folate-mediated pyrimidine and one-carbon metabolism. Blastocystis-associated shifts in bacterial functionality translated into the circulating metabolome. Finally, we evaluated the effects of microbiota transplantation. Donor's Blastocystis subtypes led to altered recipient's mice cognitive function and prefrontal cortex gene expression. In summary, Blastocystis warrant further consideration as a novel actor in the gut microbiome-brain axis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jordi Mayneris-Perxachs
- Department of Diabetes, Endocrinology and Nutrition, Dr. Josep Trueta University Hospital, Girona, Spain.
- Nutrition, Eumetabolism and Health Group, Girona Biomedical Research Institute (IdibGi), Girona, Spain.
- CIBER Fisiopatología de la Obesidad y Nutrición (CIBEROBN), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain.
| | - María Arnoriaga-Rodríguez
- Department of Diabetes, Endocrinology and Nutrition, Dr. Josep Trueta University Hospital, Girona, Spain
- Nutrition, Eumetabolism and Health Group, Girona Biomedical Research Institute (IdibGi), Girona, Spain
- CIBER Fisiopatología de la Obesidad y Nutrición (CIBEROBN), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
- Serra-Hunter Fellow, Department of Nursing, University of Girona, Girona, Spain
| | - Josep Garre-Olmo
- Serra-Hunter Fellow, Department of Nursing, University of Girona, Girona, Spain
- Research Group on Aging, Disability and Health, Girona Biomedical Research Institute (IdibGi), Girona, Spain
| | - Josep Puig
- Serra-Hunter Fellow, Department of Nursing, University of Girona, Girona, Spain
- Institut Investigació Germans Trias i Pujol (IGTP), Comparative Medicine and Bioimage of Catalonia, Barcelona, Spain
- Medical Imaging, Girona Biomedical Research Institute (IdibGi), Girona, Spain
- Department of Radiology (IDI), Dr. Josep Trueta University Hospital, Girona, Spain
| | - Rafael Ramos
- Serra-Hunter Fellow, Department of Nursing, University of Girona, Girona, Spain
- Vascular Health Research Group of Girona (ISV-Girona). Jordi Gol Institute for Primary Care Research (Institut Universitari per a la Recerca en Atenció Primària Jordi Gol I Gurina -IDIAPJGol), Girona Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBGI), Dr. Josep Trueta University Hospital, Catalonia, Spain
- Girona Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBGI), Dr. Josep Trueta University Hospital, Catalonia, Spain
| | - Maria Trelis
- Parasite & Health Research Group, Department of Pharmacy, Pharmaceutical Technology and Parasitology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Valencia, Burjassot, 46100, Valencia, Spain
- Joint Research Unit on Endocrinology, Nutrition and Clinical Dietetics, University of Valencia-Health Research Institute La Fe, Valencia, Spain
| | - Aurelijus Burokas
- Laboratory of Neuropharmacology, Department of Experimental and Health Sciences, Universitat Pompeu Fabra, Barcelona, Spain
- Institute of Biochemistry, Life Sciences Center, Vilnius University, Vilnius, Lithuania
| | - Clàudia Coll
- Neuroimmunology and Multiple Sclerosis Unit, Department of Neurology, Dr. Josep Trueta University Hospital, Girona, Spain
| | - Cristina Zapata-Tona
- Department of Diabetes, Endocrinology and Nutrition, Dr. Josep Trueta University Hospital, Girona, Spain
- Nutrition, Eumetabolism and Health Group, Girona Biomedical Research Institute (IdibGi), Girona, Spain
- CIBER Fisiopatología de la Obesidad y Nutrición (CIBEROBN), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
- Serra-Hunter Fellow, Department of Nursing, University of Girona, Girona, Spain
| | - Salvador Pedraza
- Serra-Hunter Fellow, Department of Nursing, University of Girona, Girona, Spain
- Medical Imaging, Girona Biomedical Research Institute (IdibGi), Girona, Spain
- Department of Radiology (IDI), Dr. Josep Trueta University Hospital, Girona, Spain
| | - Vicente Pérez-Brocal
- Area of Genomics and Health, Foundation for the Promotion of Sanitary and Biomedical Research of Valencia Region (FISABIO-Public Health), Valencia, Spain
- Biomedical Research Networking Center for Epidemiology and Public Health (CIBERESP), Madrid, Spain
| | - Lluís Ramió
- Neuroimmunology and Multiple Sclerosis Unit, Department of Neurology, Dr. Josep Trueta University Hospital, Girona, Spain
| | - Wifredo Ricart
- Department of Diabetes, Endocrinology and Nutrition, Dr. Josep Trueta University Hospital, Girona, Spain
- Nutrition, Eumetabolism and Health Group, Girona Biomedical Research Institute (IdibGi), Girona, Spain
- CIBER Fisiopatología de la Obesidad y Nutrición (CIBEROBN), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
- Serra-Hunter Fellow, Department of Nursing, University of Girona, Girona, Spain
| | - Andrés Moya
- Area of Genomics and Health, Foundation for the Promotion of Sanitary and Biomedical Research of Valencia Region (FISABIO-Public Health), Valencia, Spain
- Biomedical Research Networking Center for Epidemiology and Public Health (CIBERESP), Madrid, Spain
- Institute for Integrative Systems Biology (I2SysBio), University of Valencia and Spanish National Research Council (CSIC), Valencia, Spain
| | - Mariona Jové
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Lleida-Lleida Biomedical Research Institute (UdL-IRBLleida), E-25198, Lleida, Spain
| | - Joaquim Sol
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Lleida-Lleida Biomedical Research Institute (UdL-IRBLleida), E-25198, Lleida, Spain
- Institut Català de la Salut, Atenció Primària, Lleida, Spain
- Research Support Unit Lleida, Fundació Institut Universitari per a la recerca a l'Atenció Primària de Salut Jordi Gol i Gurina (IDIAPJGol), Lleida, Spain
| | - Manuel Portero-Otin
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Lleida-Lleida Biomedical Research Institute (UdL-IRBLleida), E-25198, Lleida, Spain
| | - Reinald Pamplona
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Lleida-Lleida Biomedical Research Institute (UdL-IRBLleida), E-25198, Lleida, Spain
| | - Rafael Maldonado
- Laboratory of Neuropharmacology, Department of Experimental and Health Sciences, Universitat Pompeu Fabra, Barcelona, Spain.
- Hospital del Mar Medical Research Institute (IMIM), Barcelona, Spain.
| | - José Manuel Fernández-Real
- Department of Diabetes, Endocrinology and Nutrition, Dr. Josep Trueta University Hospital, Girona, Spain.
- Nutrition, Eumetabolism and Health Group, Girona Biomedical Research Institute (IdibGi), Girona, Spain.
- CIBER Fisiopatología de la Obesidad y Nutrición (CIBEROBN), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain.
- Serra-Hunter Fellow, Department of Nursing, University of Girona, Girona, Spain.
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Suh S, Lee H, Seo MG, Kim KT, Eo KY, Kwon YS, Park SJ, Kwon OD, Kim TH, Kwak D. Molecular Detection and Genetic Diversity of Blastocystis in Korean Dogs. Korean J Parasitol 2022; 60:289-293. [PMID: 36041491 PMCID: PMC9441454 DOI: 10.3347/kjp.2022.60.4.289] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2022] [Revised: 08/03/2022] [Accepted: 08/03/2022] [Indexed: 05/22/2023]
Abstract
Blastocystis is a genus of unicellular heterokont parasites belonging to a group of organisms known as Stramenopiles, which includes algae, diatoms, and water molds. Blastocystis includes several species that habitat in the gastrointestinal tracts of organisms as diverse as humans, farm animals, birds, rodents, reptiles, amphibians, fish, and cockroaches. It is important to public health and distributed globally, but its prevalence in dogs in Korea has not been reported to date. Here, we collected 787 canine fecal samples and assessed Blastocystis infection by age, sex, region, season, and diarrhea symptoms. We determined Blastocystis subtypes using phylogenetic analyses based on 18S rRNA gene sequences. We identified, 10 Blastocystis positive samples (1.3%). A higher proportion of infected dogs was asymptomatic; however, infection rates did not significantly differ according to region, age, sex, and season. Phylogenetic analysis showed that the Blastocystis sp. identified belonged to 4 subtypes (STs), ST1, ST5, ST10, and ST14, thus revealed the genetic diversity of Blastocystis sp. in dogs Korean. This is first report on the presence of Blastocystis sp. in dogs Korean. This study revealed a lower infection rate than expected and differed from previous studies in STs. Further studies are warranted to observe the national infection status of Blastocystis in dogs and the genetic characteristics of this genus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sangsu Suh
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Kyungpook National University, Daegu 41566, Korea
| | - Haeseung Lee
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Kyungpook National University, Daegu 41566, Korea
| | - Min-Goo Seo
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Kyungpook National University, Daegu 41566, Korea
| | - Kyoo-Tae Kim
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Kyungpook National University, Daegu 41566, Korea
| | - Kyung-Yeon Eo
- Department of Animal Health and Welfare, College of Healthcare and Biotechnology, Semyung University, Jecheon 27136, Korea
| | - Young-Sam Kwon
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Kyungpook National University, Daegu 41566, Korea
| | - Sang-Joon Park
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Kyungpook National University, Daegu 41566, Korea
| | - Oh-Deog Kwon
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Kyungpook National University, Daegu 41566, Korea
| | - Tae-Hwan Kim
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Kyungpook National University, Daegu 41566, Korea
| | - Dongmi Kwak
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Kyungpook National University, Daegu 41566, Korea
- Corresponding author ()
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17
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Bodnia I, Pokhil S, Bodnia K, Pavliy V, Skoryk L. DISTRIBUTION AND FREQUENCY OF BLASTOCYSTIS SP. BY METHODS OF MICROSCOPY AND CULTIVATION IN FAECES OF RESIDENTS OF KHARKOV REGION. Georgian Med News 2022:85-89. [PMID: 36318848] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Blastocystis sp. - is the most prevalent anaerobic intestinal protozoan parasite in humans and many animals; from 1 to 2 billion people in the world are colonized by this pathogen. Blastocystis sp. is found both in faecal samples (FS) of healthy people (asymptomatic persons) and - patients (symptomatic persons) with nonspecific symptoms of gastrointestinal tract, skin, joints and other organs lesions. The prevalence of people affected by Blastocystis sp. of both cohorts in the world vary widely (from 0.08% to about 90%) depending on the degree of the country's economic development, sanitary and hygienic conditions, cultural values, etc. Currently, microscopic, cultural, immunological and molecular genetic methods are used for Blastocystis sp. detection in stool samples. Each group of methods of Blastocystis sp. detection/identification in FS has its advantages and disadvantages. The goal of this study was to determine the prevalence of Blastocystis sp. in faecal samples in different cohorts of people (clinically healthy and symptomatic people with symptoms of gastrointestinal lesions) in Kharkiv by microscopic and cultural methods. Cohort of surveyed residents of Kharkiv (n=169) included 72 clinically healthy individuals and 97 symptomatic individuals with gastrointestinal tract diseases. All 169 FSs (their precipitates) were subjected to microscopic examination after the formalin-phosphate-salt buffer (FPBSCS) enrichment (concentration) procedure (pH=7.4) at 500 g for 10 minutes. Blastocystis sp. identification was carried out by means of microscopy of the faecal smears, which were stained by Wheatley's modification trichrome stain (mWTS) and by Heidenhain's iron-hematoxylin stain (HIHS). The inoculated material was a filtered suspension of native FS (200 μl) which was inoculated in 5 ml of liquid media RPMI/IMDMEM (mixture of equal volumes of RPMI and IMDMEM media) with antibiotics and serum. Blastocystis sp. culture growth was carried out under anaerobic conditions at 37 oC for 5 days. The blastocysts final identification was carried out by means of light microscopy of suspensions smears stably stained with mWTS HIHS. It was carried out a comparative evaluation of the effectiveness Blastocystis sp. detection methods as microscopy (smears of enriched faecal material stained with mWTS or HIHS) and cultivation (on RPMI/IMDMEM medium) based on the results of parallel studies of 169 FS from different groups of people by both methods. An insignificant increase (4.1%) of the Blastocystis sp. frequency detection/identification by means of cultural method in comparison with the frequency of microscopic parasites detection in all FS was determined: in FS from asymptomatic individuals (n=72) only by 2.7%, and in FS from symptomatic individuals (n=97) - by 5.2% (p>0.05). From all FS in which Blastocystis sp. was detected microscopically, the growth of these parasite primary cultures was obtained. Among the total results (negative + positive) Blastocystis sp. detection / identification by microscopic and cultural methods in all FS from humans rf reaches +0.92, and for groups FS from asymptomatic and symptomatic individuals - rf=+0.94 and rf=+0.90, respectively. In the sample of only positive results detection / identification of Blastocystis sp. by microscopic and cultural methods, the value of rf is: + 0.59 for all studied FS from humans, + 0.20 - for FS from asymptomatic individuals and + 0.66 - for FS from symptomatic individuals. According to the results of a parallel study of microscopic and cultural methods of 169 FS from different groups of people it was found that the cultural method dominates over microscopic in sensitivity of Blastocystis sp. detection in FS (20.6%) and is characterized by a much higher level of specificity (accuracy of parasite identification), which reaches 100%. The method of in vitro diagnostics helps to increase the efficiency of parasites detection in human FS, can be used for epidemiological studies to establish the population prevalence of protozoa, to determine the sensitivity of Blastocystis sp. cultures to drugs, control of the etiotropic blastocystosis therapy effectiveness, obtaining parasites antigens, study the disease pathogenesis and the virulence potential of pathogen strains of different origin, etc.
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Affiliation(s)
- I Bodnia
- 1Kharkiv National Medical University of the Ministry of Health of Ukraine
| | - S Pokhil
- 3Institute of Microbiology and Immunology, I.I. Mechnikov, Ukraine
| | - K Bodnia
- 2Kharkov Medical Academy of Postgraduate Education of the Ministry of Health of Ukraine
| | - V Pavliy
- 2Kharkov Medical Academy of Postgraduate Education of the Ministry of Health of Ukraine
| | - L Skoryk
- 2Kharkov Medical Academy of Postgraduate Education of the Ministry of Health of Ukraine
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Kaczmarek A, Gołąb E, Sałamatin R. Improved Blastocystis spp. detection method using swabs with Amies transport medium and charcoal. Ann Agric Environ Med 2022; 29:303-305. [PMID: 35767768 DOI: 10.26444/aaem/142705] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Blastocystis is one of the most frequently detected protozoa in the human large intestine. One of the most effective and cheap methods for detecting Blastocystis in faeces is culture on a special medium in anaerobic conditions. Sampling faeces using traditional containers and their transport to the laboratory has certain limitations: a sample taken in this way should reach the laboratory relatively quickly, moreover, some patients are uncomfortable during sampling and protection of material in this way. We propose utilizing a swab for sampling and transportation of the faeces samples to be examined for Blastocystis instead of using traditional containers. We believe this is an excellent method allowing the material to be transported over longer distances without additional, and sometimes expensive, safety measures, and at the same time permitting the possibility of obtaining living cells after a relatively long period of storage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adam Kaczmarek
- Faculty of Medical Science. Collegium Medicum, Cardinal Stefan Wyszyński University in Warsaw, Poland
| | | | - Rusłan Sałamatin
- Faculty of Medical Science. Collegium Medicum, Cardinal Stefan Wyszyński University in Warsaw, Poland
- Department of General Biology and Parasitology, Medical University of Warsaw, Poland
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Ali SH, Ismail MAM, El-Badry AA, Abu-Sarea EY, Dewidar AM, Hamdy DA. An Association Between Blastocystis Subtypes and Colorectal Cancer Patients: A Significant Different Profile from Non-cancer Individuals. Acta Parasitol 2022; 67:752-763. [PMID: 35067864 PMCID: PMC8784229 DOI: 10.1007/s11686-021-00508-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2021] [Accepted: 12/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Blastocystis is a common enteric human parasite of non-conclusive pathogenicity which may be determined by subtype (ST) variation. Colorectal cancer (CRC) is considered one of the primary causes of cancer mortality. Blastocystis ST7 has been shown to reduce beneficial intestinal microbiota and may exacerbate CRC. This study assessed the possible association between Blastocystis STs and CRC in comparison to non-cancer patients. MATERIAL AND METHODS A total of 200 fecal samples were obtained from CRC (100) and non-CRC (100) individuals attending Beni-Suef University Hospital, Egypt. Blastocystis was searched for in all samples using microscopy and culturing. Positive subculture samples were genetically sequenced and subtyped using conventional polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Blastocystis STs were determined by sequencing and a phylogenetic tree was created. Related patient characteristics and tumor stages were analyzed for association with presence of Blastocystis. RESULTS Blastocystis was identified in 52% and 42% of CRC and non-cancer individuals, respectively. ST1, 2, and 3 were isolated from both cancer and non-cancer individuals; however, for the first time, ST7 was only isolated from CRC stool samples with significant association. Associated patient characteristics were evaluated as predictors. CONCLUSION Blastocystosis is highly prevalent in CRC patients, predominantly in the latest CRC grades and stages. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study to report the identification of Blastocystis ST7 in CRC patients. To determine whether certain STs of Blastocystis are associated with CRC would require further research, including the role played by gut microbiota.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shaimaa H. Ali
- Department of Medical Parasitology, College of Medicine, Beni-Suef University, Beni Suef, Egypt
| | - Mousa A. M. Ismail
- Department of Medical Parasitology, College of Medicine, Cairo University, Giza, Egypt
| | - Ayman A. El-Badry
- Department of Microbiology-Medical Parasitology Section, College of Medicine, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, Dammam, Saudi Arabia
| | - Enas Y. Abu-Sarea
- Department of Medical Parasitology, College of Medicine, Beni-Suef University, Beni Suef, Egypt
| | - Ahmad M. Dewidar
- Department of Oncology, College of Medicine, Beni-Suef University, Beni Suef, Egypt
| | - Doaa A. Hamdy
- Department of Medical Parasitology, College of Medicine, Beni-Suef University, Beni Suef, Egypt
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Liu X, Ni F, Wang R, Li J, Ge Y, Yang X, Qi M, Zhang L. Occurrence and subtyping of Blastocystis in coypus (Myocastor coypus) in China. Parasit Vectors 2022; 15:14. [PMID: 34991712 PMCID: PMC8734224 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-021-05126-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2021] [Accepted: 12/11/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Blastocystis is an anaerobic unicellular protist frequently detected in the gastrointestinal tracts of humans and animals worldwide. However, the prevalence and subtype distribution of Blastocystis in the coypu (Myocastor coypus) population have not been reported so far. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence, genetic characteristics, and zoonotic potential of Blastocystis isolates detected in coypus in China. RESULTS A total of 308 fecal samples were collected from coypus in seven regions across China and subsequently examined. Blastocystis was detected in 44 (14.3%) specimens by nested PCR amplification of the small subunit ribosomal rRNA (SSU rRNA) gene. Further DNA sequencing and phylogenetic analyses resulted in the identification of two zoonotic known subtypes, ST4 and ST5, and an unknown subtype. ST4 was the most predominant subtype observed in the samples. ST5 infections were only observed in three coypus. Factors that were associated with prevalence of Blastocystis included age, geographical region and subtype. Interestingly, this is the first report about a potentially novel subtype infecting coypus. CONCLUSIONS This is the first comprehensive report of Blastocystis in M. coypus across a wide geographic range of China. A moderate degree of genetic divergence was observed. The presence of zoonotic subtypes in farmed M. coypus suggests that these animals have the potential to transmit blastocystosis to both humans and domestic animals. These findings provide a better understanding of the genetic diversity of Blastocystis in rodents and contribute towards the establishment of efficient blastocystosis control strategies in the investigated areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuehan Liu
- College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Henan Institute of Science and Technology, Xinxiang, 453003 Henan Province China
- Postdoctoral Research Base, College of Veterinary Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, 450046 Henan Province China
| | - Fuzhen Ni
- College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Henan Institute of Science and Technology, Xinxiang, 453003 Henan Province China
| | - Rongjun Wang
- Postdoctoral Research Base, College of Veterinary Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, 450046 Henan Province China
| | - Junqiang Li
- Postdoctoral Research Base, College of Veterinary Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, 450046 Henan Province China
| | - Yaming Ge
- College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Henan Institute of Science and Technology, Xinxiang, 453003 Henan Province China
| | - Xuefeng Yang
- College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Henan Institute of Science and Technology, Xinxiang, 453003 Henan Province China
| | - Meng Qi
- College of Animal Science, Tarim University, Alar, 843300 Xinjiang Province China
| | - Longxian Zhang
- Postdoctoral Research Base, College of Veterinary Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, 450046 Henan Province China
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Ismail MH, Abbas SK, Molan AL. Prevalence and subtype diversity of Blastocystis sp. in an Iraqi population with and without irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Ann Parasitol 2022; 68:275-286. [PMID: 35809577 DOI: 10.17420/ap6802.433] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
The parasites that belong to the genus Blastocystis are the most common intestinal parasite detected in a wide range of hosts including humans. Although the pathogenicity of these parasites remains controversial, many studies confirmed their pathogenicity and some researchers strongly believe that the pathogenicity may be linked with specific subtypes of these parasites. The current study investigated the Blastocystis sp. subtypes recovered from individuals suffering from the irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) in comparison with those recovered from non-IBS subjects. Fresh stool samples were collected from each participant and processed during the same day of collection. Iodine wet mounts and trichrome stained smears prepared from fresh stool and sediment concentrates were microscopically examined for Blastocystis parasites. In addition, Jones's medium has been used in order to confirm the identification and also to get the genomic DNA from positive samples for PCR and sequencing. The culture was significantly more sensitive (P=0.0035) than the other identification methods, especially in IBS patients. Blastocystis was detected in 60.0% of patients with IBS and in 22.0% of non-IBS individuals and the difference between two groups was statistically significant (P=0.0001). Regarding the impact of age and gender on the prevalence of infection with Blastocystis, no significant differences were observed between IBS patients and non-IBS subjects except for the age group (10-30 years) where the non-IBS subjects were significantly more prone (P=0.0223) to the infection with this parasite than IBS patients. The abdominal pain and bloating were the leading symptoms. DNA sequencing and phylogenetic analysis of Iraqi Blastocystis isolates identified three subtypes (ST1, ST2 and ST3). Among these three subtypes, ST3 was significantly more prevalent (OR=8.5; P=0.0058) among IBS patients (60%) than non-IBS subjects (25%). In contrast, the dominance of ST1 was significantly higher (OR=7.0; P=0.0062) in the non-IBS subjects (70%) than their IBS patients counterparts (15%). As far as we know, this study is the first to deal with the genetic characterization of Blastocystis subtypes in an Iraqi population with and without IBS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masar Hadi Ismail
- Department of Biology, College of Sciences, Mustansiriyah University, Baghdad, Iraq
- Department of Biotechnology, College of Sciences, Diyala University, Diyala, Iraq
| | | | - Abdul-Lateef Molan
- Department of Biotechnology, College of Sciences, Diyala University, Diyala, Iraq
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Liu X, Ge Y, Wang R, Dong H, Yang X, Zhang L. First report of Blastocystis infection in Pallas's squirrels (Callosciurus erythraeus) in China. Vet Res Commun 2021; 45:441-445. [PMID: 33987777 DOI: 10.1007/s11259-021-09797-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2021] [Accepted: 05/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Blastocystis, an intestinal anaerobic protist with high genetic diversity, inhabits a variety of hosts worldwide, including rodents. However, there have been few studies on squirrel Blastocystis infections in China to date. Herein, 171 fecal samples from Pallas's squirrels (Callosciurus erythraeus) sold as pets were collected to investigate the prevalence and genetic characteristics of Blastocystis. A total of 10 Blastocystis-positive samples (10/171, 5.9%) were obtained by PCR amplification and DNA sequencing of the barcode region of the SSU rRNA gene. Blastocystis subtype analysis revealed four known subtypes, namely, ST1, ST3, ST5 and ST6, with ST5 and ST6 being predominant. Phylogenetic analysis was performed to identify each subtype. To our knowledge, this study is the first to explore Blastocystis infection in Pallas's squirrels, expanding the host range of this parasite. Moreover, multiple zoonotic subtypes were found in Pallas's squirrels, suggesting that these animals may serve as reservoirs for pathogens of human Blastocystis infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuehan Liu
- Postdoctoral Research Base, College of Veterinary Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, 450046, China.
- College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Henan Institute of Science and Technology, Xinxiang, 453003, China.
| | - Yaming Ge
- College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Henan Institute of Science and Technology, Xinxiang, 453003, China
| | - Rongjun Wang
- Postdoctoral Research Base, College of Veterinary Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, 450046, China
| | - Haiju Dong
- Postdoctoral Research Base, College of Veterinary Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, 450046, China
| | - Xuefeng Yang
- College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Henan Institute of Science and Technology, Xinxiang, 453003, China
| | - Longxian Zhang
- Postdoctoral Research Base, College of Veterinary Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, 450046, China.
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Karamati SA, Mirjalali H, Niyyati M, Yadegar A, Asadzadeh Aghdaei H, Haghighi A, Seyyed Tabaei SJ. Association of Blastocystis ST6 with higher protease activity among symptomatic subjects. BMC Microbiol 2021; 21:285. [PMID: 34666703 PMCID: PMC8524833 DOI: 10.1186/s12866-021-02341-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2021] [Accepted: 10/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Blastocystis sp. is an anaerobic intestinal protozoan parasite of humans and a wide range of animals worldwide. In the current study the correlation between the cysteine protease activity of clinical samples of Blastocystis sp. ST1-3 and 6 with the levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines was evaluated. METHODS Stool samples were collected from subjects with or without clinical symptoms. All samples were cultivated in DMEM medium. The bacteria were eliminated or reduced in Blastocystis sp. positive samples subtypes 1-3 and 6 by a variety of antibiotics and consecutive sub-cultures. To prepare parasite lysate, 1 × 105 Blastocystis sp. from each isolate were harvested and lysed using freeze-thaw. Protease activity of each isolate was measured and the gene expression of pro-inflammatory biomarkers in HT-29 cell line sensed by isolates was investigated using quantitative Real-time PCR. RESULTS Protease activity assay showed inter- and intra-subtype variations among subtypes regarding the presence of symptoms, while the protease activity of symptomatic isolates was higher than asymptomatic isolates. The highest and lowest levels of protease activity were seen in ST6 and ST2, respectively. However, patterns of the expression of pro-inflammatory biomarkers in HT-29 cell line was different regarding the presence of symptoms and time points. There was no significant correlation between protease activity of different subtypes with the expression levels of pro-inflammatory biomarkers. CONCLUSIONS Our study indicated a higher protease activity among isolates from symptomatic compared to asymptomatic subjects, suggesting functional role for proteases in clinical symptoms due to Blastocystis sp. The lack of correlation between the levels of expression of pro-inflammatory biomarkers with subtypes regarding the presence of clinical symptoms proposes the importance of host-related factors in presentation of clinical symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seyed Ahmad Karamati
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, Faculty of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, Faculty of Medicine, Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hamed Mirjalali
- Foodborne and Waterborne Diseases Research Center, Research Institute for Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Maryam Niyyati
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, Faculty of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Abbas Yadegar
- Foodborne and Waterborne Diseases Research Center, Research Institute for Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hamid Asadzadeh Aghdaei
- Basic and Molecular Epidemiology of Gastrointestinal Disorders Research Center, Research Institute for Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ali Haghighi
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, Faculty of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Seyyed Javad Seyyed Tabaei
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, Faculty of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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Wilcox JJS, Lopez-Cotto JJ, Hollocher H. Historical contingency, geography and anthropogenic patterns of exposure drive the evolution of host switching in the Blastocystis species-complex. Parasitology 2021; 148:985-993. [PMID: 33775262 PMCID: PMC11010051 DOI: 10.1017/s003118202100055x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
Parasites have the power to impose significant regulatory pressures on host populations, making evolutionary patterns of host switching by parasites salient to a range of contemporary ecological issues. However, relatively little is known about the colonization of new hosts by parasitic, commensal and mutualistic eukaryotes of metazoans. As ubiquitous symbionts of coelomate animals, Blastocystis spp. represent excellent candidate organisms for the study of evolutionary patterns of host switching by protists. Here, we apply a big-data phylogenetic approach using archival sequence data to assess the relative roles of several host-associated traits in shaping the evolutionary history of the Blastocystis species-complex within an ecological framework. Patterns of host usage were principally determined by geographic location and shared environments of hosts, suggesting that weight of exposure (i.e. propagule pressure) represents the primary force for colonization of new hosts within the Blastocystis species-complex. While Blastocystis lineages showed a propensity to recolonize the same host taxa, these taxa were often evolutionarily unrelated, suggesting that historical contingency and retention of previous adaptions by the parasite were more important to host switching than host phylogeny. Ultimately, our findings highlight the ability of ecological theory (i.e. ‘ecological fitting’) to explain host switching and host specificity within the Blastocystis species-complex.
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Affiliation(s)
- Justin J S Wilcox
- Department of Biological Sciences, Galvin Life Sciences, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, Indiana 46556, USA
- Center for Genomics and Systems Biology, New York University Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | - John J Lopez-Cotto
- Department of Biological Sciences, Galvin Life Sciences, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, Indiana 46556, USA
| | - Hope Hollocher
- Department of Biological Sciences, Galvin Life Sciences, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, Indiana 46556, USA
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Sarzhanov F, Köster PC, Dogruman-Al F, Bailo B, Dashti A, Demirel-Kaya F, Carmena D. Detection of enteric parasites and molecular characterization of Giardia duodenalis and Blastocystis sp. in patients admitted to hospital in Ankara, Turkey. Parasitology 2021; 148:550-561. [PMID: 32981546 PMCID: PMC10950376 DOI: 10.1017/s0031182020001821] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2020] [Revised: 07/10/2020] [Accepted: 09/18/2020] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
This epidemiological study assesses the occurrence of enteric parasites in 4303 patients attended at two public hospitals in Ankara (Turkey) during 2018-2019. Microscopy was used as a screening test. Giardia duodenalis was also identified using a commercial ELISA for the detection of parasite-specific coproantigens. Giardia-positive samples by microscopy/ELISA were confirmed by real-time PCR and characterized using a multilocus genotyping scheme. Blastocystis sp. was genotyped in a sample subset. Blastocystis sp. (11.1%, 95% CI 11.4‒14.8%) and G. duodenalis (1.56%, 95% CI 1.22‒1.96) were the most prevalent pathogens found. Cryptosporidium spp., Entamoeba histolytica and intestinal helminths were only sporadically (<0.5%) found. For G. duodenalis, sequence (n = 30) analyses revealed the presence of sub-assemblages AII (23.3%), discordant AII/AIII (23.3%) and mixed AII + AIII (6.7%) within assemblage A, and BIII (10.0%), BIV (3.3%) and discordant BIII/BIV (23.3%) within assemblage B. Two additional sequences (6.7%) were assigned to the latter assemblage but sub-assemblage information was unknown. No associations between G. duodenalis assemblages/sub-assemblages and sociodemographic and clinical variables could be demonstrated. For Blastocystis sp., sequence (n = 6) analyses identified subtypes ST1, ST2 and ST3 at equal proportions. This is the first molecular characterization of G. duodenalis based on MLG conducted in Turkey to date.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fakhriddin Sarzhanov
- Department of Medical Microbiology, School of Medicine, Gazi University, 06490Ankara, Turkey
- Faculty of Medicine, Akhmet Yassawi International Kazakh-Turkish University, 161200Turkestan, Kazakhstan
| | - Pamela Carolina Köster
- Parasitology Reference and Research Laboratory, National Centre for Microbiology, Health Institute Carlos III, Ctra. Majadahonda-Pozuelo Km 2, 28220 Majadahonda, Madrid, Spain
| | - Funda Dogruman-Al
- Section of Medical Parasitology, Department of Medical Microbiology, School of Medicine, Gazi University, 06490Ankara, Turkey
| | - Begoña Bailo
- Parasitology Reference and Research Laboratory, National Centre for Microbiology, Health Institute Carlos III, Ctra. Majadahonda-Pozuelo Km 2, 28220 Majadahonda, Madrid, Spain
| | - Alejandro Dashti
- Parasitology Reference and Research Laboratory, National Centre for Microbiology, Health Institute Carlos III, Ctra. Majadahonda-Pozuelo Km 2, 28220 Majadahonda, Madrid, Spain
| | - Filiz Demirel-Kaya
- Medical Microbiology Laboratory, Ankara Education and Research Hospital, Health Science University, 06230Ankara, Turkey
| | - 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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Abstract
The human gut microbiota is a diverse and complex ecosystem that is involved in beneficial physiological functions as well as disease pathogenesis. Blastocystis is a common protistan parasite and is increasingly recognized as an important component of the gut microbiota. The correlations between Blastocystis and other communities of intestinal microbiota have been investigated, and, to a lesser extent, the role of this parasite in maintaining the host immunological homeostasis. Despite recent studies suggesting that Blastocystis decreases the abundance of beneficial bacteria, most reports indicate that Blastocystis is a common component of the healthy gut microbiome. This review covers recent finding on the potential interactions between Blastocystis and the gut microbiota communities and its roles in regulating host immune responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lei Deng
- Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Parasitology, Healthy Aging Programme and Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore
- The Key Laboratory of Animal Disease and Human Health of Sichuan Province, College of Veterinary Medicine, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Lukasz Wojciech
- Immunology Programme and Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore
| | - Nicholas R. J. Gascoigne
- Immunology Programme and Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore
| | - Guangneng Peng
- The Key Laboratory of Animal Disease and Human Health of Sichuan Province, College of Veterinary Medicine, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Kevin S. W. Tan
- Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Parasitology, Healthy Aging Programme and Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore
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Zamani R, Khademvatan S, Tappeh KH, Diba K, Abasi E. Comparison of diagnostic methods (wet mount, trichrome staining, formol-ether, PCR, and xenic in vitro culture) for the detection of Blastocystis in stool samples in Urmia educational hospitals, the Northwest of Iran. Ann Parasitol 2021; 67:795-803. [PMID: 35339119 DOI: 10.17420/ap6704.398] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Blastocystis spp. is known as a common intestinal protozoan parasite in human and animals. The parasite has a worldwide distribution and is frequently detected in faecal samples in clinical parasitology laboratories. The goal of the study was to compare the sensitivity and specificity of formol-ether technique (FECT), trichrome staining, xenic in vitro culture (XIVC), microscopy of faecal smears, and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) methods for detecting Blastocystis spp. in human stool samples. The prevalence of the parasite in the stool samples referred to educational hospitals was also determined. A total of 575 cases were assessed to detect the parasite. After collecting from patients referring to Urmia educational hospitals, the samples were examined by microscopy of faecal smears, trichrome staining, FECT, XIVC using Jones' medium, and PCR, to evaluate the presence of Blastocystis spp. Microscopy of faecal smears, trichrome staining, FECT, and PCR technique detected 94, 100, 96, and 44 positive cases, with the sensitivity of 71.3%, 74.4%, 74.4%, and 80.4% and the specificity of 99.6%, 99.1%, 100%, and 93.1%, respectively. XIVC method identified the highest number of positive cases (129 cases) among the other methods. Our findings indicates that XIVC technique is more sensitive method for the detection of Blastocystis spp. in human stool, as compared to direct smear, trichrome staining, FECT, and PCR methods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rouhangiz Zamani
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Faculty of Medicine, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran
| | - Shahram Khademvatan
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Faculty of Medicine, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran
| | - Khosrow H Tappeh
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Faculty of Medicine, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran
| | - Kambiz Diba
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Faculty of Medicine, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran
| | - Esmaeil Abasi
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Faculty of Medicine, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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Abstract
Acute gastroenteritis with persistent vomiting, high degree fever and blood streaking stools often suggests bacterial aetiology in children. Authors report a 13-year-old boy presenting with acute watery diarrhoea with persistent vomiting, fever of 103°F, abdominal cramps and blood streaking stools who failed to show any response to parenteral third-generation cephalosporin for 72 hours. The stool examination revealed numerous cystic and amoeboid forms of Blastocystis hominis Metronidazole was started and the boy promptly responded within 24 hours. There was no recurrence of symptoms then onwards. The case highlights the crucial stool examination in case of acute diarrhoeal disease for rare aetiology.
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Castañeda S, Muñoz M, Villamizar X, Hernández PC, Vásquez LR, Tito RY, Ramírez JD. Microbiota characterization in Blastocystis-colonized and Blastocystis-free school-age children from Colombia. Parasit Vectors 2020; 13:521. [PMID: 33066814 PMCID: PMC7565366 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-020-04392-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2020] [Accepted: 10/07/2020] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Blastocystis is a protist that lives in the intestinal tract of a variety of hosts, including humans. It is still unclear how Blastocystis causes disease, which presents an ongoing challenge for researchers. Despite the controversial findings on the association between Blastocystis and clinical digestive manifestations, there is currently no consensus as to whether this protozoan actually behaves as a pathogen in humans. Furthermore, the relationship between Blastocystis and the intestinal microbiota composition is not yet clear. For that reason, the aim of this study was to identify if colonization by Blastocystis is related to changes in the diversity and relative abundance of bacterial communities, compared with those of Blastocystis-free individuals in a group of Colombian children. METHODS We took stool samples from 57 school-aged children attending a daycare institution in Popayán (Southwest Colombia). Whole DNA was extracted and examined by 16S-rRNA amplicon-based sequencing. Blastocystis was detected by real time PCR and other intestinal parasites were detected by microscopy. We evaluated if Blastocystis was associated with host variables and the diversity and abundance of microbial communities. RESULTS The composition of the intestinal bacterial community was not significantly different between Blastocystis-free and Blastocystis-colonized children. Despite this, we observed a higher microbial richness in the intestines of children colonized by Blastocystis, which could, therefore, be considered a benefit to intestinal health. The phylum Firmicutes was the predominant taxonomic unit in both groups analyzed. In Blastocystis-free individuals, there was a higher proportion of Bacteroidetes; similarly, in children colonized by Blastocystis, there was a higher relative abundance of the phylum Proteobacteria; however, no statistically significant differences were found between the comparison groups. CONCLUSIONS The presence of Blastocystis showed a decrease in Bacteroides, and an increase in the relative abundance of the genus Faecalibacterium. It was also evident that the presence of Blastocystis was unrelated to dysbiosis at the intestinal level; on the contrary, its presence did not show statistically differences in the intestinal microbiota composition. Nevertheless, we believe that Blastocystis plays a role in the ecology of the intestinal microbiota through its interaction with other microbial components.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sergio Castañeda
- Grupo de Investigaciones Microbiológicas-UR (GIMUR), Departamento de Biología, Facultad de Ciencias Naturales, Universidad del Rosario, Bogotá, Colombia
- Maestría en Informática Biomédica, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad El Bosque, Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Marina Muñoz
- Grupo de Investigaciones Microbiológicas-UR (GIMUR), Departamento de Biología, Facultad de Ciencias Naturales, Universidad del Rosario, Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Ximena Villamizar
- Grupo de Investigaciones Microbiológicas-UR (GIMUR), Departamento de Biología, Facultad de Ciencias Naturales, Universidad del Rosario, Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Paula C Hernández
- Laboratorio de Parasitología Molecular, Vicerrectoría de Investigaciones, Universidad El Bosque, Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Luis Reinel Vásquez
- Centro de Estudios en Microbiología y Parasitología (CEMPA), Departamento de Medicina Interna, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad del Cauca, Popayán, Colombia
| | - Raúl Yhossef Tito
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Rega Institute, KU Leuven, University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Juan David Ramírez
- Grupo de Investigaciones Microbiológicas-UR (GIMUR), Departamento de Biología, Facultad de Ciencias Naturales, Universidad del Rosario, Bogotá, Colombia.
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Ma L, Zhang Y, Qiao H, Li S, Wang H, Zhang N, Zhang X. Cockroach as a Vector of Blastocystis sp. is Risk for Golden Monkeys in Zoo. Korean J Parasitol 2020; 58:583-587. [PMID: 33202512 PMCID: PMC7672233 DOI: 10.3347/kjp.2020.58.5.583] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2020] [Revised: 09/23/2020] [Accepted: 09/24/2020] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Blastocystis sp. is a kind of protozoa living in the intestinal tract of human and animals, which will cause intestinal diseases such as diarrhea, abdominal distension and vomiting. This paper was aimed to understand the infection of Blastocystis sp. In golden monkeys and the transmission path in North China. Thirty-seven feces samples from golden monkeys and 116 cockroach samples from Shijiazhuang Zoo were collected from July to October 2019 for PCR analysis of Blastocystis sp. Genetic diversity analysis was further conducted on the samples with positive PCR results. The results showed that the infection rate was 48.7% (18/37) in golden monkeys and 82.8% (96/116) in cockroaches, respectively. The genetic evolution analysis based on small subunit ribosomal RNA demonstrated that three subtypes (ST) of Blastocystis sp. including ST1, ST2, and ST3 existed in the intestinal tract of golden monkeys, while only ST2 was detected in the intestinal tract of cockroaches. This paper may provide supports for the quarantine and control of Blastocystis sp. for the zoo in Northern China.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lei Ma
- College of Life Science, Hebei Normal University, Shijiazhuang 050024, Hebei Province, China
| | - Yongbin Zhang
- Shijiazhuang Municipal Administration Center of Zoo, Shijiazhuang 050200, Hebei Province, China
| | - Haixia Qiao
- College of Life Science, Hebei Normal University, Shijiazhuang 050024, Hebei Province, China
| | - Shuai Li
- College of Life Science, Hebei Normal University, Shijiazhuang 050024, Hebei Province, China
| | - Heqin Wang
- College of Life Science, Hebei Normal University, Shijiazhuang 050024, Hebei Province, China
| | - Ningning Zhang
- College of Life Science, Hebei Normal University, Shijiazhuang 050024, Hebei Province, China
| | - Xiao Zhang
- Department of Preventive Veterinary Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Shandong Agricultural University, Taian City 271000, Shandong Province, China
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Delshad A, Saraei M, Alizadeh SA, Niaraki SR, Alipour M, Hosseinbigi B, Bozorgomid A, Hajialilo E. Distribution and molecular analysis of Blastocystis subtypes from gastrointestinal symptomatic and asymptomatic patients in Iran. Afr Health Sci 2020; 20:1179-1189. [PMID: 33402964 PMCID: PMC7751524 DOI: 10.4314/ahs.v20i3.21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Blastocystis is a common intestinal parasite of human and animal hosts. The parasite has 17 subtypes, and among those at least nine subtypes (ST1-ST9) are found in human hosts. OBJECTIVE The aim of the present study was to investigate the presence of different subtypes of Blastocystis spp. among the patients referred to Velayat hospital of Qazvin province, Iran. METHODS Overall, 864 stool samples were examined by using formalin-ethyl acetate concentration method and Trichrome staining. All specimens were cultured in clotted fetal bovine medium. Later, DNA extraction and PCR amplification of 18S ribosomal RNA gene region was conducted and phylogenetic tree constructed. RESULTS The results revealed 7.9% (68/864) of the study population were infected with Blastocystis. Intestinal symptoms were observed in 61% (36/59) of individuals positive for Blastocystis, with abdominal pain in 58% (21/36) of cases which was more frequent than other intestinal signs. No significant relationship was observed among the study variables. By molecular and phylogenetic analysis, three subtypes ST1 (45%), ST2 (30%) and ST3 (23%) of parasite were identified. CONCLUSION This study showed ST1 subtype was the predominant subtype among the positive specimens, meanwhile the highest haplotype and nucleotide diversity were clarified in ST3 subtype.
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Affiliation(s)
- Asma Delshad
- Student Research Committee, Qazvin University of Medical Sciences, Qazvin, Iran
| | - Mehrzad Saraei
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Research Institute for Prevention of Non- Communicable Disease, Qazvin University of Medical Sciences, Qazvin, Iran
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, Qazvin University of Medical Sciences, Qazvin, Iran
| | - Safar Ali Alizadeh
- Medical Microbiology Research Center, Qazvin University of Medical Sciences, Qazvin, Iran
- Department of Microbiology, Qazvin University of Medical Sciences, Qazvin, Iran
| | | | - Mahmood Alipour
- Department of Social Medicine, Qazvin University of Medical Sciences, Qazvin, Iran
| | - Bahram Hosseinbigi
- Medical Microbiology Research Center, Qazvin University of Medical Sciences, Qazvin, Iran
| | - Arezoo Bozorgomid
- Infectious Diseases Research Center, Health Institute, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
| | - Elham Hajialilo
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Research Institute for Prevention of Non- Communicable Disease, Qazvin University of Medical Sciences, Qazvin, Iran
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, Qazvin University of Medical Sciences, Qazvin, Iran
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Mohammad Rahimi H, Nemati S, Mirjalali H, Sharifdini M, Zali MR. Molecular characterization and identification of Blastocystis and its subtypes from raccoon (Procyon lotor) in north of Iran. Parasitol Res 2020; 119:2741-2745. [PMID: 32577820 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-020-06770-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2020] [Accepted: 06/10/2020] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Blastocystis is a zoonotic protozoan parasite frequently identified in the intestinal tract of humans and a vast variety of animals, worldwide. Here, we assessed the prevalence of Blastocystis and its subtypes in stool samples of raccoons. Stool samples from 30 raccoons were collected. Total DNA was extracted, and the barcoding region of the small subunit ribosomal rRNA (SSU rRNA) gene was amplified and sequenced. Specific fragment for Blastocystis was successfully amplified in five samples (16.66%). Sequencing analysis revealed ST1, ST2, and ST3 among 1, 2, and 2 Blastocystis-positive samples. Our results documented the presence of Blastocystis subtypes 1-3 in raccoons. Subtype 1 showed higher similarity to the human isolates of Blastocystis. However, it seems that raccoons may emerge as reservoirs for Blastocystis and may be linked to zoonotic transmission of the protist.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hanieh Mohammad Rahimi
- Foodborne and Waterborne Diseases Research Center, Research Institute for Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Sara Nemati
- Foodborne and Waterborne Diseases Research Center, Research Institute for Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hamed Mirjalali
- Foodborne and Waterborne Diseases Research Center, Research Institute for Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Meysam Sharifdini
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Guilan University of Medical Sciences, Rasht, Iran.
| | - Mohammad Reza Zali
- Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases Research Center, Research Institute for Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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Zhu W, Wei Z, Li Q, Lin Y, Yang H, Li W. Prevalence and subtype diversity of Blastocystis in human and nonhuman primates in North China. Parasitol Res 2020; 119:2719-2725. [PMID: 32524268 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-020-06761-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2020] [Accepted: 06/04/2020] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Blastocystis is of public health concern due to its global distribution in diverse animals including humans. Here, fecal specimens sampled from human and nonhuman primates were examined for Blastocystis by PCR and sequence analysis of the small subunit ribosomal RNA gene. Among age cohorts, the parasite was positive only for three of 126 (2.4%) adults admitted to a hospital in Harbin, Heilongjiang province, with a less common human subtype (ST), ST5, determined. Blastocystis was identified in 7.0% of nonhuman primates (NHPs), giving an infection rate of 6.8% (4/59) to zoo NHPs in Harbin and 7.1% (9/126) to lab NHPs in Beijing. No significant prevalence differences by macaque species, age, gender, and sample source were observed. Among the subtypes found in NHPs, seven belonged to ST1, three to ST2, one to ST3, and the remaining two to mixed ST1/ST3 and ST2/ST3. Although the data here showed no direct evidence linking human infections to Blastocystis of NHP origin, individuals might acquire colonization of ST5 from livestock sources judged by occurrence of this subtype also in cattle in Harbin and pigs and sheep in unspecified cities of Heilongjiang as noted in previous reports. In addition, given the nonrigid (but sometimes, perhaps cryptic) host specificity of ST1, ST2, and ST3 and their dominant role in human affections globally as discussed in a previous NHP report by Alfellani et al. (Parasitology 140:966-971, 2013a), precautions should be taken to minimize the possible transmission of those subtypes from NHPs to humans in North China.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weining Zhu
- Heilongjiang Key Laboratory for Zoonosis, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, 600 Changjiang Road, Harbin, 150030, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Ziyan Wei
- Heilongjiang Key Laboratory for Zoonosis, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, 600 Changjiang Road, Harbin, 150030, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Qiao Li
- Heilongjiang Key Laboratory for Zoonosis, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, 600 Changjiang Road, Harbin, 150030, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Yongchao Lin
- Heilongjiang Key Laboratory for Zoonosis, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, 600 Changjiang Road, Harbin, 150030, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Hang Yang
- Heilongjiang Key Laboratory for Zoonosis, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, 600 Changjiang Road, Harbin, 150030, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Wei Li
- Heilongjiang Key Laboratory for Zoonosis, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, 600 Changjiang Road, Harbin, 150030, Heilongjiang, China.
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Sheela DS, Chandramathi S, Suresh K. Epitope variances demonstrated by Blastocystis sp. ST3 symptomatic and asymptomatic isolates. Trop Biomed 2020; 37:210-217. [PMID: 33612732] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Blastocystis sp. is an enteric protozoan parasite of humans and many animals. Blastocystis sp. subtype 3 (ST3) proves to be the highest frequency case in most populations around the world and it is further distinguished into symptomatic and asymptomatic isolates based on the clinical symptoms exhibited by infected individuals. Phenotypic and genotypic studies implicate the distinctiveness of this parasite which may describe its pathogenesis. However, the antigenic distinctiveness which describes the antibody mediated cell lysis of this parasite has not been explored. This study was aimed to identify the cross-reactivity and cytotoxicity effect between three isolates of symptomatic and asymptomatic Blastocystis sp. ST3 respectively. Antigen specificity and diversity of this parasite was performed by coculturing sera (10-fold dilution) obtained from mice immunised with Blastocystis sp. symptomatic and asymptomatic antigens and the respective Blastocystis sp. ST3 live cells through complement dependant cell cytotoxicity (CDC) assay. The results obtained has shown that, the sera (at 10-fold diluted concentration) from symptomatic and asymptomatic solubilised antigen immunised mice were able to specifically lyse the respective live parasites with an average percentage of 82% and 86% respectively. There were almost 50% crossreactivity observed between the three isolates of Blastocystis sp. ST3 from symptomatic and asymptomatic group proving high antigen diversity or rather low antigen specificity within the same group. However, there was only 17% cross-reactivity observed between the mice sera and parasitic cells of different groups (symptomatic vs asymptomatic isolates) suggesting high specificity between these two groups. We, for the first time have proven that through CDC analysis there were epitopes dissimilarities between Blastocystis sp. ST3 symptomatic and asymptomatic isolates which may allow the parasite to set up diverse immune modulations such as imbalanced Th1/Th2 responses in an infected host.
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Affiliation(s)
- D S Sheela
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - S Chandramathi
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - K Suresh
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
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Kamaruddin SK, Mat Yusof A, Mohammad M. Prevalence and subtype distribution of Blastocystis sp. in cattle from Pahang, Malaysia. Trop Biomed 2020; 37:127-141. [PMID: 33612724] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Blastocystis sp. is a common enteric protozoan parasite found in humans and various type of animal worldwide. Recently, genotypic distribution of Blastocystis sp. was revealed in insects, rodents, avian and mammals, which exposed its potential of transmiting the infections to human. However, very little information on current level of Blastocystis sp. infection were reported in cattle from Malaysia. Herein, a total of 120 stool samples of cattles were collected. While the potential risk of infection such as age, gender, body score, diarrheic condition of the cattle were noted, the management of the farms was also recorded. All stool sample were cultured, but 80 samples were selected for PCR sequencing analysis. The cultivation and microscopic examination revealed only 25% of the cattle (30/120) were infected with Blastocystis sp.. But, 43.8% of the cattle (35/80) were found positive upon PCR sequencing. The study also found that age, body score condition, diarrheic condition and certain farm were associated with the infection (p<0.05). Six subtypes (STs) that were discovered during the study were ST10 (21.3%;17/35), ST5 (8.8%;7/35), ST3 (7.5%;6/35), ST1 (2.5%;2/35), ST4 (2.5%;2/35) and ST14 (1.3%;1/35). Thus, moderate infections of Blastocystis sp. and variants in the genotypic distributions of the cattle suggest its potential for zoonotic transmission. Therefore, this findings could be helpful for further understanding the parasite, which assist studies of its pathogenicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- S K Kamaruddin
- Department of Biomedical Science, Kuliyyah of Allied Health Sciences, International Islamic University Malaysia, 25200, Bandar Indera Mahkota, Kuantan, Pahang Malaysia
| | - A Mat Yusof
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences for Nursing, Kuliyyah of Nursing, International Islamic University Malaysia, 25200, Bandar Indera Mahkota, Kuantan, Pahang Malaysia
| | - M Mohammad
- Department of Biomedical Science, Kuliyyah of Allied Health Sciences, International Islamic University Malaysia, 25200, Bandar Indera Mahkota, Kuantan, Pahang Malaysia
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - C Graham Clark
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
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Greige S, El Safadi D, Khaled S, Gantois N, Baydoun M, Chemaly M, Benamrouz-Vanneste S, Chabé M, Osman M, Certad G, Hamze M, Viscogliosi E. First report on the prevalence and subtype distribution of Blastocystis sp. in dairy cattle in Lebanon and assessment of zoonotic transmission. Acta Trop 2019; 194:23-29. [PMID: 30878470 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2019.02.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2018] [Revised: 02/06/2019] [Accepted: 02/12/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Blastocystis sp. is frequently identified in a wide range of animal hosts, including bovids. Because of its burden and zoonotic potential, this parasite has been sought in domestic cattle from various countries, since this livestock may also represent a possible reservoir of human infection. However, epidemiological data regarding the prevalence and ST distribution of Blastocystis sp. in this animal group is lacking in Lebanon. Therefore, faecal samples were collected from a total of 254 dairy cattle raised on 55 farms located in the North Lebanon region and screened for the presence of the parasite by quantitative real-time PCR. The overall prevalence of Blastocystis sp. was shown to reach 63.4% in cattle livestock. Sequence analysis of positive samples indicated the presence of seven STs, with predominance of ST10 (44.0%) and ST14 (36.8%) and lower proportions of ST2 (8.0%), ST1 (7.2%), ST5 (2.4%), ST3 and ST7 (0.8% each). This survey was the first conducted worldwide reporting ST2 and ST7 in domestic cattle and confirmed that ST10 and ST14 represent cattle-adapted STs in view of their high prevalence. Faecal samples from in-contact dairy farmers and patients hospitalised in the same Lebanese governorate who reported no contact with cattle livestock were also analysed for the presence of Blastocystis sp. The same three STs were identified in both human cohorts, with predominance of ST3, followed either by ST1 or ST2 depending of the group. No other STs, including ST10 or ST14, have been reported. Moreover, even though ST1, ST2 and ST3 were found to be common to dairy cattle and farmers cohorts, only one ST3 isolate showed 100% sequence identity between both hosts. Consequently, the presence and low prevalence of ST1, ST2, ST3, ST5 and ST7 identified herein in domestic cattle, most of which exhibit low host specificity, could be derived from occasional direct exposure to faecal material from human and non-human hosts or by ingestion of contaminated drinking water or food in the enclosure of the farms. Together with the absence of ST10 and ST14 in the human population, these data suggest that cattle play a negligible role as zoonotic reservoirs of Blastocystis sp.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stéphanie Greige
- Université de Lille, CNRS, Inserm, CHU Lille, Institut Pasteur de Lille, U1019 - UMR 8204 - CIIL - Centre d'Infection et d'Immunité de Lille, 1 rue du Professeur Calmette, BP 245, 59019 Lille Cedex, France; Laboratoire Microbiologie Santé et Environnement (LMSE), Ecole Doctorale des Sciences et de Technologie, Faculté de Santé Publique, Université Libanaise, Rue Mitein, Tripoli, Lebanon
| | - Dima El Safadi
- Université de Lille, CNRS, Inserm, CHU Lille, Institut Pasteur de Lille, U1019 - UMR 8204 - CIIL - Centre d'Infection et d'Immunité de Lille, 1 rue du Professeur Calmette, BP 245, 59019 Lille Cedex, France; Laboratoire Microbiologie Santé et Environnement (LMSE), Ecole Doctorale des Sciences et de Technologie, Faculté de Santé Publique, Université Libanaise, Rue Mitein, Tripoli, Lebanon
| | - Salma Khaled
- Université de Lille, CNRS, Inserm, CHU Lille, Institut Pasteur de Lille, U1019 - UMR 8204 - CIIL - Centre d'Infection et d'Immunité de Lille, 1 rue du Professeur Calmette, BP 245, 59019 Lille Cedex, France; Laboratoire Microbiologie Santé et Environnement (LMSE), Ecole Doctorale des Sciences et de Technologie, Faculté de Santé Publique, Université Libanaise, Rue Mitein, Tripoli, Lebanon
| | - Nausicaa Gantois
- Université de Lille, CNRS, Inserm, CHU Lille, Institut Pasteur de Lille, U1019 - UMR 8204 - CIIL - Centre d'Infection et d'Immunité de Lille, 1 rue du Professeur Calmette, BP 245, 59019 Lille Cedex, France
| | - Martha Baydoun
- Université de Lille, CNRS, Inserm, CHU Lille, Institut Pasteur de Lille, U1019 - UMR 8204 - CIIL - Centre d'Infection et d'Immunité de Lille, 1 rue du Professeur Calmette, BP 245, 59019 Lille Cedex, France
| | - Marianne Chemaly
- ANSES, Ploufragan-Plouzané Laboratory, Hygiene and Quality of Poultry and Pig Products Unit, Bretagne-Loire University, Ploufragan, France
| | - Sadia Benamrouz-Vanneste
- Université de Lille, CNRS, Inserm, CHU Lille, Institut Pasteur de Lille, U1019 - UMR 8204 - CIIL - Centre d'Infection et d'Immunité de Lille, 1 rue du Professeur Calmette, BP 245, 59019 Lille Cedex, France
| | - Magali Chabé
- Université de Lille, CNRS, Inserm, CHU Lille, Institut Pasteur de Lille, U1019 - UMR 8204 - CIIL - Centre d'Infection et d'Immunité de Lille, 1 rue du Professeur Calmette, BP 245, 59019 Lille Cedex, France
| | - Marwan Osman
- Laboratoire Microbiologie Santé et Environnement (LMSE), Ecole Doctorale des Sciences et de Technologie, Faculté de Santé Publique, Université Libanaise, Rue Mitein, Tripoli, Lebanon
| | - Gabriela Certad
- Université de Lille, CNRS, Inserm, CHU Lille, Institut Pasteur de Lille, U1019 - UMR 8204 - CIIL - Centre d'Infection et d'Immunité de Lille, 1 rue du Professeur Calmette, BP 245, 59019 Lille Cedex, France; Département de la Recherche Médicale, Groupement des Hôpitaux de l'Institut Catholique de Lille, Faculté de Médecine et Maïeutique, Université Catholique de Lille, 51 Boulevard de Belfort, 59000 Lille, France
| | - Monzer Hamze
- Laboratoire Microbiologie Santé et Environnement (LMSE), Ecole Doctorale des Sciences et de Technologie, Faculté de Santé Publique, Université Libanaise, Rue Mitein, Tripoli, Lebanon
| | - Eric Viscogliosi
- Université de Lille, CNRS, Inserm, CHU Lille, Institut Pasteur de Lille, U1019 - UMR 8204 - CIIL - Centre d'Infection et d'Immunité de Lille, 1 rue du Professeur Calmette, BP 245, 59019 Lille Cedex, France.
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Piubelli C, Soleymanpoor H, Giorli G, Formenti F, Buonfrate D, Bisoffi Z, Perandin F. Blastocystis prevalence and subtypes in autochthonous and immigrant patients in a referral centre for parasitic infections in Italy. PLoS One 2019; 14:e0210171. [PMID: 30615638 PMCID: PMC6322732 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0210171] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2018] [Accepted: 12/18/2018] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
In this study we characterized the presence and subtype (ST1-ST4) of Blastocystis in patients attended at a referral center for tropical diseases in Northern Italy. We also, evaluated the organism's association with other intestinal parasites. Parasite screening was performed on 756 patients, from different geographical origins (namely, Italians, Africans, South Americans, Asian and non-Italian Europeans) in which Italians represented the largest group. Blastocystis was seen to be the most prevalent parasite in the study. Subtype 3 and 1 were the most frequently found in the Italians and Africans. Our data confirmed previous studies performed in Italy, in which ST3 proved to be the most prevalent subtype, but we highlighted also a high frequency of mixed subtypes, which were probably underestimated in former analyses. Interestingly, the mixed subtypes group was the most prevalent in all the analysed geographical areas. About half of our cases showed other co-infecting parasites and the most frequent was Dientamoeba fragilis. Our study confirms that, in Blastocystis infection, multiple subtypes and co-infecting parasites are very frequently present, in particular Dientamoeba fragilis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiara Piubelli
- Department of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, IRCCS Sacro Cuore Don Calabria Hospital, Negrar (Vr), Italy
- * E-mail:
| | - Hossein Soleymanpoor
- Department of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, IRCCS Sacro Cuore Don Calabria Hospital, Negrar (Vr), Italy
- Institute of Infectious Diseases and Public Health, Università Politecnica delle Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - Giovanni Giorli
- Department of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, IRCCS Sacro Cuore Don Calabria Hospital, Negrar (Vr), Italy
| | - Fabio Formenti
- Department of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, IRCCS Sacro Cuore Don Calabria Hospital, Negrar (Vr), Italy
| | - Dora Buonfrate
- Department of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, IRCCS Sacro Cuore Don Calabria Hospital, Negrar (Vr), Italy
| | - Zeno Bisoffi
- Department of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, IRCCS Sacro Cuore Don Calabria Hospital, Negrar (Vr), Italy
| | - Francesca Perandin
- Department of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, IRCCS Sacro Cuore Don Calabria Hospital, Negrar (Vr), Italy
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Dudlová A, Jarčuška P, Jurišová S, Vasilková Z, Krčméry V, Juriš P. Prevalence of non-pathogenic types of gastrointestinal protozoa in population in Slovakia and their potential importance in the aspect of public health. Acta Parasitol 2018; 63:819-825. [PMID: 30367755 DOI: 10.1515/ap-2018-0100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2017] [Accepted: 08/28/2018] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
The aim of the research was to determine the prevalence of non-pathogenic protozoa circulating in the human population of Slovakia. We particularly focused on the socially deprived areas with poor sanitation conditions, as they are one of the factors affecting the transmission of these infections. Within this study, 2760 people were coprologically screened for the presence of protozoan cysts. The analyzed group comprised 1173 men and 1587 women from different regions of Slovakia. The total prevalence (2.03%) of non-pathogenic protozoa species was determined. The prevalence of Entamoeba coli was 0.80%, the prevalence of Endolimax nana 0.58%, and the prevalence of Blastocystis hominis was 0.65%. The presence of non-pathogenic protozoa was more frequent in women than that in men, in all age groups. The highest incidence of Entamoeba coli was found in children aged one month - seven years (0.79%), the lowest in the age group of 19-88 years (0.66%). Endolimax nana was most frequent in 8-18 year-olds (0.95%), where the statistical significance was found (p<0.05). The prevalence of Blastocystis hominis by the age group ranged from 0.39 to 0.95%. We did not find any statistical significance (p>0.05) for Entamoeba coli, and similarly for Blastocystis hominis associated with the sex and age. Although the circulation of non-pathogenic protozoa in the human population is far from being limited to the developing countries, their occurrence is also frequent in the population of developed countries. Despite their controversial pathogenicity, they should not be neglected, particularly in the patients with gastrointestinal symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adriána Dudlová
- St Elisabeth University of Health Care and Social Work, Námestie 1. mája, 080 00 Bratislava, Slovak Republic
| | - Pavol Jarčuška
- Department of Infectology and Travel Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of P. J. Šafárik, Rastislavova 43, 041 90 Košice, Slovak Republic
| | - Silvia Jurišová
- National Cancer Institute, Klenova 3019/1, 833 10 Bratislava, Slovak Republic
| | - Zuzana Vasilková
- Institute of Parasitology, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Hlinkova 3, 040 01 Košice, Slovak Republic
| | - Vladimír Krčméry
- St Elisabeth University of Health Care and Social Work, Námestie 1. mája, 080 00 Bratislava, Slovak Republic
| | - Peter Juriš
- Department of Epidemiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of P. J. Šafárik, Šrobárova 2, 041 80 Košice, Slovak Republic
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Tsaousis AD, Hamblin KA, Elliott CR, Young L, Rosell-Hidalgo A, Gourlay CW, Moore AL, van der Giezen M. The Human Gut Colonizer Blastocystis Respires Using Complex II and Alternative Oxidase to Buffer Transient Oxygen Fluctuations in the Gut. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2018; 8:371. [PMID: 30406045 PMCID: PMC6204527 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2018.00371] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2018] [Accepted: 10/03/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Blastocystis is the most common eukaryotic microbe in the human gut. It is linked to irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), but its role in disease has been contested considering its widespread nature. This organism is well-adapted to its anoxic niche and lacks typical eukaryotic features, such as a cytochrome-driven mitochondrial electron transport. Although generally considered a strict or obligate anaerobe, its genome encodes an alternative oxidase. Alternative oxidases are energetically wasteful enzymes as they are non-protonmotive and energy is liberated in heat, but they are considered to be involved in oxidative stress protective mechanisms. Our results demonstrate that the Blastocystis cells themselves respire oxygen via this alternative oxidase thereby casting doubt on its strict anaerobic nature. Inhibition experiments using alternative oxidase and Complex II specific inhibitors clearly demonstrate their role in cellular respiration. We postulate that the alternative oxidase in Blastocystis is used to buffer transient oxygen fluctuations in the gut and that it likely is a common colonizer of the human gut and not causally involved in IBS. Additionally the alternative oxidase could act as a protective mechanism in a dysbiotic gut and thereby explain the absence of Blastocystis in established IBS environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anastasios D. Tsaousis
- RAPID Group, Laboratory of Molecular & Evolutionary Parasitology, School of Biosciences, University of Kent, Canterbury, United Kingdom
| | - Karleigh A. Hamblin
- School of Biological and Chemical Sciences, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom
- Biosciences, University of Exeter, Exeter, United Kingdom
| | - Catherine R. Elliott
- Department of Biochemistry and Biomedicine, School of Life Sciences, University of Sussex, Brighton, United Kingdom
| | - Luke Young
- Department of Biochemistry and Biomedicine, School of Life Sciences, University of Sussex, Brighton, United Kingdom
| | - Alicia Rosell-Hidalgo
- Department of Biochemistry and Biomedicine, School of Life Sciences, University of Sussex, Brighton, United Kingdom
| | - Campbell W. Gourlay
- Kent Fungal Group, School of Biosciences, University of Kent, Canterbury, United Kingdom
| | - Anthony L. Moore
- Department of Biochemistry and Biomedicine, School of Life Sciences, University of Sussex, Brighton, United Kingdom
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Abstract
Blastocystis is a unicellular, anaerobic protist which lives in the intestinal tract of diverse animals, including humans. It was found that the host specificity and the pathogenic potential of different isolates are correlated with sequence variations in the SSU-rRNA gene. Identification of the organism to the species level is still an unresolved challenge. Genetic diversity revisions have led to the identification of 17 subtypes (STs) within the Blastocystis genus, and 9 (ST1 to ST9) have been reported in humans with varying prevalence. Since the members of the genus revealed a large genetic diversity, several molecular modalities of subtyping methods have been developed. Numerous studies on conveying the pathogenic potential to the molecular subtypes are available, but they could not be compared or analysed with the different molecular techniques employed. The use of different approaches may give false positives during diagnosis and the possibility of missed infections. A review of recent scientific literature indicates that the development of PCR assays is needed for molecular epidemiology and for mixed infections in health and disease cohorts, and also to help identify sources of Blastocystis transmission to humans, as well as to identify potential animal and environmental reservoirs. This review summarizes some of the recent progress and improvements in Blastocystis research on genetic diversity, taxonomy, molecular epidemiology, pathogenicity and subtyping methods.
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Angelici MC, Nardis C, Scarpelli R, Ade P. Blastocystis hominis transmission by non-potable water: a case report in Italy. New Microbiol 2018; 41:173-177. [PMID: 29498738] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2018] [Accepted: 05/28/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
In the reported case, a 41-year-old Italian man came to the clinician's observation reporting cramps, bloating and watery diarrhoea a few days after drinking water indicated as unpotable from a fountain in a farm area. The medical suspicion was directed at both gluten intolerance and enteric infection, eventually of waterborne origin. Gluten intolerance was investigated by intestinal biopsy and excluded, while stool analyses ruled out infective bacteriological or viral agents and parasites. Subsequently, a persistent eosinophilia was revealed and a parasitological analysis was again suggested, planning for a more sensitive molecular method. Therefore, a multiplex-PCR of enteric protozoa species DNA was performed on an intestinal biopsy and faecal samples revealing only Blastocystis hominis protozoa, subsequently typed as subtype 1 by RFLP-PCR method. B. hominis is an anaerobic protozoa found in the human and animal intestinal tract, recently associated with a pathogenic role characterized by chronic development. Since blastocystosis has been demonstrated as a waterborne infection, a sample of water matrix was analysed, revealing the B. hominis subtype 1 DNA inside. A probable water transmission of Blastocystis infection has been demonstrated in this case report. Only a probiotic treatment based on Saccharomyces boulardii was administered to the patient and this apparently resolved the infection. In summary, the case described here is a chronic blastocystosis of possible waterborne origin, controlled by assuming a yeast treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Cristina Angelici
- Department of Environment and Health, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena, n. 299, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - Chiara Nardis
- Department of Environment and Health, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena, n. 299, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - Riccardo Scarpelli
- Department of Environment and Health, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena, n. 299, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - Paola Ade
- Department of Environment and Health, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena, n. 299, 00161, Rome, Italy
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Méabed EMH, El-Sayed NM, Abou-Sreea AIB, Roby MHH. Chemical analysis of aqueous extracts of Origanum majorana and Foeniculum vulgare and their efficacy on Blastocystis spp. cysts. Phytomedicine 2018; 43:158-163. [PMID: 29747749 DOI: 10.1016/j.phymed.2018.04.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2017] [Revised: 02/02/2018] [Accepted: 04/08/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Origanum majorana (O. majorana) and Foeniculum vulgare (F. vulgare) are traditionally used herbs in Egypt for treatment of several diseases including parasitic diseases. The Purpose was to determine the efficacy of O. majorana and F. vulgare aqueous extracts (AEs) on Blastocystis spp. in vitro, and to reveal their phenolic, flavonoids components and antioxidant activities through chemical analysis. METHODS The Efficacy of both plant AEs on human Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cells (PBMCs) viability was assessed using MTT assay. Isolated Blastocystis spp. cysts from patients' diarrhea samples were incubated with different concentrations of O. majorana and F. vulgare AEs for different incubation periods (24, 48 and 72 h) in comparison with nitazoxanide (NTZ) as a drug control. The total contents of phenolic and flavonoid compounds in the AEs and their ability to reduce DPPH were assessed. High performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) analysis for quantitative and qualitative determination of the phenolic and flavonoid contents was performed. RESULTS O. majorana AE at a dose of 400 µg /ml showed efficacy rates of 96% and 100% against Blastocystis parasite after 48 and 72 h, respectively, which nearly equivalent to NTZ at a dose of 500 µg/ml. F. vulgare at a dose of 250 µg/ml showed less efficacy rate of 56.4% after 48 h and increased to 70.7% after 72 h. Both extracts contain high phenolic and flavonoid compounds that possess antioxidant and free radical scavenging activities. CONCLUSION O. majorana and F. vulgare AEs showed dose and time dependent anti-Blastocystis activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eman M H Méabed
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Fayoum University, Al Gamaa Street, Fayoum City 63513, Egypt.
| | - Nagwa M El-Sayed
- Department of Parasitology, Research Institute of Ophthalmology, Giza, Egypt
| | - Alaa I B Abou-Sreea
- Department of Horticulture, Faculty of Agriculture, Fayoum University, Egypt.
| | - Mohamed H H Roby
- Department of Food Science and Technology, Faculty of Agriculture, Fayoum University, Egypt.
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Rojas-Velázquez L, Morán P, Serrano-Vázquez A, Fernández LD, Pérez-Juárez H, Poot-Hernández AC, Portillo T, González E, Hernández E, Partida-Rodríguez O, Nieves-Ramírez ME, Magaña U, Torres J, Eguiarte LE, Piñero D, Ximénez C. Genetic Diversity and Distribution of Blastocystis Subtype 3 in Human Populations, with Special Reference to a Rural Population in Central Mexico. Biomed Res Int 2018; 2018:3916263. [PMID: 29744356 PMCID: PMC5878905 DOI: 10.1155/2018/3916263] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2017] [Accepted: 02/11/2018] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
Blastocystis subtype 3 (ST3) is a parasitic protist found in the digestive tract of symptomatic and asymptomatic humans around the world. While this parasite exhibits a high prevalence in the human population, its true geographic distribution and global genetic diversity are still unknown. This gap in knowledge limits the understanding of the spread mechanisms, epidemiology, and impact that this parasite has on human populations. Herein, we provided new data on the geographical distribution and genetic diversity of Blastocystis ST3 from a rural human population in Mexico. To do so, we collected and targeted the SSU-rDNA region in fecal samples from this population and further compared its genetic diversity and structure with that previously observed in populations of Blastocystis ST3 from other regions of the planet. Our analyses reveled that diversity of Blastocystis ST3 showed a high haplotype diversity and genetic structure to the world level; however, they were low in the Morelos population. The haplotype network revealed a common widespread haplotype from which the others were generated recently. Finally, our results suggested a recent expansion of the diversity of Blastocystis ST3 worldwide.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liliana Rojas-Velázquez
- Unidad de Investigación en Medicina Experimental, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), Dr. Balmis 148, Doctores, Cuauhtémoc, 06726 Ciudad de México, Mexico
- Unidad de Posgrado, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), Circuito de Posgrado S/N, Coyoacán, Cd. Universitaria, 04510 Ciudad de México, Mexico
| | - Patricia Morán
- Unidad de Investigación en Medicina Experimental, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), Dr. Balmis 148, Doctores, Cuauhtémoc, 06726 Ciudad de México, Mexico
| | - Angélica Serrano-Vázquez
- Unidad de Investigación en Medicina Experimental, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), Dr. Balmis 148, Doctores, Cuauhtémoc, 06726 Ciudad de México, Mexico
| | - Leonardo D. Fernández
- Centro de Investigación en Recursos Naturales y Sustentabilidad (CIRENYS), Universidad Bernardo O'Higgins, Avenida Viel 1497, Santiago, Chile
| | - Horacio Pérez-Juárez
- Unidad de Investigación en Medicina Experimental, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), Dr. Balmis 148, Doctores, Cuauhtémoc, 06726 Ciudad de México, Mexico
- Unidad de Posgrado, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), Circuito de Posgrado S/N, Coyoacán, Cd. Universitaria, 04510 Ciudad de México, Mexico
| | - Augusto C. Poot-Hernández
- Departamento de Ingeniería de Sistemas Computacionales y Automatización, Sección de Ingeniería de Sistemas Computacionales, Instituto de Investigaciones en Matemáticas Aplicadas y en Sistemas, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), Circuito Escolar 3000, Cd. Universitaria, Coyoacán, 04510 Ciudad de México, Mexico
| | - Tobías Portillo
- Unidad de Bioinformática, Bioestadística y Biología Computacional, Red de Apoyo a la Investigación, Coordinación de la Investigación Científica, UNAM, Instituto Nacional de Ciencias Médicas y Nutrición, Vasco de Quiroga 15, Tlalpan, 14080 Ciudad de México, Mexico
| | - Enrique González
- Unidad de Investigación en Medicina Experimental, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), Dr. Balmis 148, Doctores, Cuauhtémoc, 06726 Ciudad de México, Mexico
| | - Eric Hernández
- Unidad de Investigación en Medicina Experimental, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), Dr. Balmis 148, Doctores, Cuauhtémoc, 06726 Ciudad de México, Mexico
| | - Oswaldo Partida-Rodríguez
- Unidad de Investigación en Medicina Experimental, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), Dr. Balmis 148, Doctores, Cuauhtémoc, 06726 Ciudad de México, Mexico
| | - Miriam E. Nieves-Ramírez
- Unidad de Investigación en Medicina Experimental, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), Dr. Balmis 148, Doctores, Cuauhtémoc, 06726 Ciudad de México, Mexico
| | - Ulises Magaña
- Unidad de Investigación en Medicina Experimental, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), Dr. Balmis 148, Doctores, Cuauhtémoc, 06726 Ciudad de México, Mexico
- Unidad de Posgrado, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), Circuito de Posgrado S/N, Coyoacán, Cd. Universitaria, 04510 Ciudad de México, Mexico
| | - Javier Torres
- Unidad de Investigación Médica en Enfermedades Infecciosas y Parasitarias, Hospital de Pediatría, Centro Médico Siglo XXI, Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social (IMSS), Avenida Cuauhtémoc 330, Doctores, Cuauhtémoc, 06720 Ciudad de México, Mexico
| | - Luis E. Eguiarte
- Departamento de Ecología Evolutiva, Instituto de Ecología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), Circuito Exterior S/N, Junto al Jardín Botánico, Cd. Universitaria, Coyoacán, 04510 Ciudad de México, Mexico
| | - Daniel Piñero
- Departamento de Ecología Evolutiva, Instituto de Ecología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), Circuito Exterior S/N, Junto al Jardín Botánico, Cd. Universitaria, Coyoacán, 04510 Ciudad de México, Mexico
| | - Cecilia Ximénez
- Unidad de Investigación en Medicina Experimental, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), Dr. Balmis 148, Doctores, Cuauhtémoc, 06726 Ciudad de México, Mexico
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Barbosa CV, Barreto MM, Andrade RDJ, Sodré F, d’Avila-Levy CM, Peralta JM, Igreja RP, de Macedo HW, Santos HLC. Intestinal parasite infections in a rural community of Rio de Janeiro (Brazil): Prevalence and genetic diversity of Blastocystis subtypes. PLoS One 2018. [PMID: 29522552 PMCID: PMC5844535 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0193860] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Intestinal parasitic infections are considered a serious public health problem and widely distributed worldwide, mainly in urban and rural environments of tropical and subtropical countries. Globally, soil-transmitted helminths and protozoa are the most common intestinal parasites. Blastocystis sp. is a highly prevalent suspected pathogenic protozoan, and considered an unusual protist due to its significant genetic diversity and host plasticity. Methodology/main findings A total of 294 stool samples were collected from inhabitants of three rural valleys in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. The stool samples were evaluated by parasitological methods, fecal culture, nested PCR and PCR/Sequencing. Overall prevalence by parasitological analyses was 64.3% (189 out of 294 cases). Blastocystis sp. (55.8%) was the most prevalent, followed by Endolimax nana (18.7%), Entamoeba histolytica complex (7.1%), hookworm infection (7.1%), Entomoeba coli (5.8%), Giardia intestinalis (4.1%), Iodamoeba butchilii (1.0%), Trichuris trichiura (1.0%), Pentatrichomonas hominis (0.7%), Enterobius vermicularis (0.7%), Ascaris lumbricoides (0.7%) and Strongyloides stercoralis (0.7%). Prevalence of IPIs was significantly different by gender. Phylogenetic analysis of Blastocystis sp. and BLAST search revealed five different subtypes: ST3 (34.0%), ST1 (27.0%), ST2 (27.0%), ST4 (3.5%), ST8 (7.0%) and a non-identified subtype. Conclusions/significance Our findings demonstrate that intestinal parasite infection rates in rural areas of the Sumidouro municipality of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil are still high and remain a challenge to public health. Moreover, our data reveals significant genetic heterogeneity of Blastocystis sp. subtypes and a possible novel subtype, whose confirmation will require additional data. Our study contributes to the understanding of potential routes of transmission, epidemiology, and genetic diversity of Blastocystis sp. in rural areas both at a regional and global scale.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carolina Valença Barbosa
- Laboratório de Estudos Integrados em Protozoologia, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz/Fundação Oswaldo Cruz (FIOCRUZ), Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Magali Muniz Barreto
- Laboratório de Avaliação e Promoção da Saúde Ambiental, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz/FIOCRUZ, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Rosemary de Jesus Andrade
- Departamento de Ginecologia e Obstetrícia, Instituto Fernandes Figueira/FIOCRUZ, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Fernando Sodré
- Laboratório de Parasitologia, Departamento de Patologia, Hospital Universitário Antônio Pedro, Universidade Federal Fluminense, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Claudia Masini d’Avila-Levy
- Laboratório de Estudos Integrados em Protozoologia, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz/Fundação Oswaldo Cruz (FIOCRUZ), Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | | | - Ricardo Pereira Igreja
- Departamento de Medicina Preventiva da Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ), Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Heloisa Werneck de Macedo
- Laboratório de Parasitologia, Departamento de Patologia, Hospital Universitário Antônio Pedro, Universidade Federal Fluminense, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Helena Lucia Carneiro Santos
- Laboratório de Estudos Integrados em Protozoologia, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz/Fundação Oswaldo Cruz (FIOCRUZ), Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
- * E-mail:
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Kaczmarek A, Gołąb E, Żarnowska-Prymek H, Rawska A, Jańczak D, Lewicki A, Wesołowska M, Rożej-Bielicka W, Cielecka D, Sałamatin R. Genetic diversity of Blastocystis hominis sensu lato isolated from humans in Poland. Przegl Epidemiol 2018; 71:539-546. [PMID: 29415532] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES Blastocystis hominis s. l. is one of the most commonly detected protozoa in the human large intestine. The aim of the study was to determine the genetic subtypes of Blastocystis hominis s. l. occurring in humans in Poland. MATERIALS AND METHODS Stool samples from patients diagnosed in the Laboratory of the Department of Parasitology, National Institute of Public Health – National Institute of Hygiene (NIZP-PZH) and in the Parasitology Laboratory of the Hospital for Infectious Diseases in Warsaw were examined. Blastocystis subtypes were assayed based on the fragment of small-subunit ribosomal RNA gene sequences (SSU rDNA). RESULTS The examined isolates were classified into five Blastocystis subtypes (STs), fifteen of which belonged to ST3, three to ST1, two to ST2, two to ST6, and one isolate belonged to ST7. In three cases the subtype of isolate was not identified. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS In Poland, the subtypes ST1, ST2, ST3, ST4, ST6 and ST7 have been reported in humans so far. The ST6 and ST7 subtypes are rarely detected in humans in Europe. In Poland, the ST6 subtype was previously described in chickens. On the basis of the studies, it was found that Blastocystis isolated from humans in Warsaw show high genetic diversity. In order to determine the possible pathogenic potential of individual Blastocystis subtypes, special epidemiological studies are required.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adam Kaczmarek
- National Institute of Public Health – National Institute of Hygiene, Warsaw, Poland, Department of Parasitology
| | - Elżbieta Gołąb
- National Institute of Public Health – National Institute of Hygiene, Warsaw, Poland, Department of Parasitology
| | | | - Anna Rawska
- Hospital of Infectious Diseases in Warsaw, Poland, Parasitology Laboratory
| | - Dawid Jańczak
- National Institute of Public Health – National Institute of Hygiene, Warsaw, Poland, Department of Parasitology
| | - Artur Lewicki
- Medical University of Warsaw, Poland, Department of General Biology and Parasitology
| | - Maria Wesołowska
- Wrocław Medical University, Poland, Department of Biology and Medical Parasitology
| | - Wioletta Rożej-Bielicka
- National Institute of Public Health – National Institute of Hygiene, Warsaw, Poland, Department of Parasitology
| | - Danuta Cielecka
- Medical University of Warsaw, Poland, Department of General Biology and Parasitology
| | - Rusłan Sałamatin
- National Institute of Public Health – National Institute of Hygiene, Warsaw, Poland, Department of Parasitology
- Medical University of Warsaw, Poland, Department of General Biology and Parasitology
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Dacal E, Saugar JM, de Lucio A, Hernández-de-Mingo M, Robinson E, Köster PC, Aznar-Ruiz-de-Alegría ML, Espasa M, Ninda A, Gandasegui J, Sulleiro E, Moreno M, Salvador F, Molina I, Rodríguez E, Carmena D. Prevalence and molecular characterization of Strongyloides stercoralis, Giardia duodenalis, Cryptosporidium spp., and Blastocystis spp. isolates in school children in Cubal, Western Angola. Parasit Vectors 2018; 11:67. [PMID: 29378626 PMCID: PMC5789528 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-018-2640-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2017] [Accepted: 01/11/2018] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Human infections by the gastrointestinal helminth Strongyloides stercoralis and the enteric protozoans Giardia duodenalis, Cryptosporidium spp. and Blastocystis spp. are not formally included in the list of 20 neglected tropical diseases prioritised by the World Health Organization. Although largely underdiagnosed and considered of lower public health relevance, these infections have been increasingly demonstrated to cause significant morbidity and even mortality globally, particularly among children living in resource-poor settings. METHODS In this cross-sectional survey the prevalence, frequency and molecular diversity of S. stercoralis, G. duodenalis, Cryptosporidium spp. and Blastocystis spp. were investigated in a school children population in the province of Benguela (Angola). A total of 351 stool samples were collected during January to June 2015. The presence of S. stercoralis and G. duodenalis was confirmed by qPCR methods. Giardia duodenalis assemblages and sub-assemblages were determined by multilocus sequence-based genotyping of the glutamate dehydrogenase and β-giardin genes of the parasite. Detection and identification of Cryptosporidium and Blastocystis species and subtypes was carried out by amplification and sequencing of a partial fragment of the small-subunit ribosomal RNA gene of both protozoan. Analyses of risk factors potentially associated with the transmission of these pathogens were also conducted. RESULTS Prevalences of S. stercoralis, G. duodenalis, Cryptosporidium spp., and Blastocystis spp. were estimated at 21.4% (95% CI: 17.1-25.7%), 37.9% (95% CI: 32.8-43.0%), 2.9% (95% CI: 1.1-4.5%) and 25.6% (95% CI: 21.18-30.2%), respectively. Overall, 64.1% (225/351) of the children were infected by at least one of the pathogens investigated. Sequence analyses of the 28 G. duodenalis isolates that were successfully genotyped allowed the identification of sub-assemblages AI (14.3%), AII (14.3%), BIII (7.1%) and BIV (25.0%). Discordant typing results AII/AIII and BIII/BIV were identified in 7.1% and 14.3% of the isolates, respectively. A total of five additional isolates (17.9%) were identified as assemblage B. Three Cryptosporidium species including C. hominis (70%), C. parvum (20%) and C. canis (10%) were found circulating in the children population under study. A total of 75 Blastocystis isolates were assigned to the subtypes ST1 (30.7%), ST2 (30.7%), ST3 (36.0%), ST5 (1.3%) and ST7 (1.3%), respectively. Children younger than seven years of age had significantly higher risk of infections by protozoan enteropathogens (PRR: 1.35, P < 0.01), whereas being underweight seemed to have a protective effect against these infections (PRR: 0.74, P = 0.005). CONCLUSIONS The burden of disease attributable to human strongyloidiasis, giardiosis, cryptosporidiosis and blastocystosis in Angola is considerably higher than initially estimated in previous surveys. Surveillance and control of these infections should be jointly tackled with formally considered neglected tropical diseases in order to maximize effort and available resources. Our data also demonstrate the added value of using molecular diagnostic methods in high transmission areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Dacal
- 0000 0000 9314 1427grid.413448.eParasitology Reference and Research Laboratory, National Centre for Microbiology, Health Institute Carlos III, Ctra. Majadahonda-Pozuelo Km 2, 28220 Majadahonda, Madrid Spain
| | - José M. Saugar
- 0000 0000 9314 1427grid.413448.eParasitology Reference and Research Laboratory, National Centre for Microbiology, Health Institute Carlos III, Ctra. Majadahonda-Pozuelo Km 2, 28220 Majadahonda, Madrid Spain
| | - Aida de Lucio
- 0000 0000 9314 1427grid.413448.eParasitology Reference and Research Laboratory, National Centre for Microbiology, Health Institute Carlos III, Ctra. Majadahonda-Pozuelo Km 2, 28220 Majadahonda, Madrid Spain
| | - Marta Hernández-de-Mingo
- 0000 0000 9314 1427grid.413448.eParasitology Reference and Research Laboratory, National Centre for Microbiology, Health Institute Carlos III, Ctra. Majadahonda-Pozuelo Km 2, 28220 Majadahonda, Madrid Spain
| | - Elena Robinson
- 0000 0000 9314 1427grid.413448.eParasitology Reference and Research Laboratory, National Centre for Microbiology, Health Institute Carlos III, Ctra. Majadahonda-Pozuelo Km 2, 28220 Majadahonda, Madrid Spain
| | - Pamela C. Köster
- 0000 0000 9314 1427grid.413448.eParasitology Reference and Research Laboratory, National Centre for Microbiology, Health Institute Carlos III, Ctra. Majadahonda-Pozuelo Km 2, 28220 Majadahonda, Madrid Spain
| | | | - Mateu Espasa
- 0000 0001 0675 8654grid.411083.fMicrobiology Department, Vall d’Hebron University Hospital, PROSICS Barcelona, Passeig de la Vall d’Hebron 119-129, 08035 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Arlette Ninda
- Hospital Nossa Senhora da Paz, Cubal, Benguela, Angola
| | - Javier Gandasegui
- 0000 0001 2180 1817grid.11762.33Biomedical Research Institute of Salamanca - Research Center for Tropical Diseases at the University of Salamanca (IBSAL-CIETUS), Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Salamanca, Paseo de San Vicente 58-182, 37007 Salamanca, Spain
| | - Elena Sulleiro
- 0000 0001 0675 8654grid.411083.fMicrobiology Department, Vall d’Hebron University Hospital, PROSICS Barcelona, Passeig de la Vall d’Hebron 119-129, 08035 Barcelona, Spain
| | | | - Fernando Salvador
- 0000 0001 0675 8654grid.411083.fInfectious Diseases Department, Vall d’Hebron University Hospital, PROSICS Barcelona, Passeig de la Vall d’Hebron 119-129, 08035 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Israel Molina
- 0000 0001 0675 8654grid.411083.fInfectious Diseases Department, Vall d’Hebron University Hospital, PROSICS Barcelona, Passeig de la Vall d’Hebron 119-129, 08035 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Esperanza Rodríguez
- 0000 0000 9314 1427grid.413448.eParasitology Reference and Research Laboratory, National Centre for Microbiology, Health Institute Carlos III, Ctra. Majadahonda-Pozuelo Km 2, 28220 Majadahonda, Madrid Spain
| | - David Carmena
- 0000 0000 9314 1427grid.413448.eParasitology Reference and Research Laboratory, National Centre for Microbiology, Health Institute Carlos III, Ctra. Majadahonda-Pozuelo Km 2, 28220 Majadahonda, Madrid Spain
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Lepczyńska M, Białkowska J, Dzika E, Piskorz-Ogórek K, Korycińska J. Blastocystis: how do specific diets and human gut microbiota affect its development and pathogenicity? Eur J Clin Microbiol Infect Dis 2017; 36:1531-1540. [PMID: 28326446 PMCID: PMC5554277 DOI: 10.1007/s10096-017-2965-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2017] [Accepted: 03/08/2017] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Blastocystis is an enteric parasite that inhabits the gastrointestinal tract of humans and many animals. This emerging parasite has a worldwide distribution. It is often identified as the most common eukaryotic organism reported in human fecal samples. This parasite is recognized and diagnosed more often than ever before. Furthermore, some strains develop resistance against currently recommended drugs, such as metronidazole; therefore, the use of natural remedies or special diets has many positive aspects that may address this problem. The goal of this review is to compare natural treatments and various diets against the efficacy of drugs, and describe their influence on the composition of the gut microbiota, which affects Blastocystis growth and the occurrence of symptoms. This article reviews important work in the literature, including the classification, life cycle, epidemiology, pathogenesis, pathogenicity, genetics, biology, and treatment of Blastocystis. It also includes a review of the current knowledge about human gut microbiota and various diets proposed for Blastocystis eradication. The literature has revealed that garlic, ginger, some medical plants, and many spices contain the most effective organic compounds for parasite eradication. They work by inhibiting parasitic enzymes and nucleic acids, as well as by inhibiting protein synthesis. The efficacy of any specific organic compound depends on the Blastocystis subtype, and, consequently, on its immunity to treatment. In conclusion, the article discusses the findings that human gut microbiota composition triggers important mechanisms at the molecular level, and, thus, has a crucial influence on the parasitic pathogenicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Lepczyńska
- Department of Medical Biology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of Warmia and Mazury, Żołnierska 14 C, Olsztyn, 10-561, Poland.
| | - J Białkowska
- Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of Warmia and Mazury, Warszawska 30, Olsztyn, Poland
| | - E Dzika
- Department of Medical Biology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of Warmia and Mazury, Żołnierska 14 C, Olsztyn, 10-561, Poland
| | - K Piskorz-Ogórek
- Department of Nursing, Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of Warmia and Mazury, Żołnierska 14 C, Olsztyn, Poland
- Regional Specialized Children's Hospital in Olsztyn, Żołnierska 18A, Olsztyn, Poland
| | - J Korycińska
- Department of Medical Biology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of Warmia and Mazury, Żołnierska 14 C, Olsztyn, 10-561, Poland
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49
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Ramírez JD, Flórez C, Olivera M, Bernal MC, Giraldo JC. Blastocystis subtyping and its association with intestinal parasites in children from different geographical regions of Colombia. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0172586. [PMID: 28222192 PMCID: PMC5319748 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0172586] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2016] [Accepted: 02/07/2017] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Blastocystis is a common enteric protist colonizing probably more than 1 billion people with a large variety of non-human hosts. Remarkable genetic diversity has been observed, leading to the subdivision of the genus into multiple subtypes (ST), some of which are exclusively found in non-human hosts. The aim of this study was to determine the distribution of Blastocystis STs/18S alleles in symptomatic (abdominal pain, anal pruritus, diarrhea, headache, nauseas and/or vomit) and asymptomatic children from nine geographical regions of Colombia. A total of 2026 fecal samples were collected as part of a national survey to estimate the frequency of intestinal parasites in children. A set of 256 samples that were Blastocystis positive was finally selected. The samples were submitted to DNA extraction, Real Time PCR and sequencing using Blastocystis-specific primers targeting the small subunit rRNA gene for ST identification. DNA of Ascaris lumbricoides (16.4%), Trichuris trichiura (8.2%), hookworms (Necator americanus/Ancylostoma duodenale) (7.3%), Giardia duodenalis (23.1%), Entamoeba complex (82%), Entamoeba coli (55%), Hymenolepis nana (0.8%), Endolimax nana (33.2%) and Neobalantidium coli (2.7%) was detected in the Blastocystis-positive samples. We detected ST1 (21.4%), ST2 (19.5%), ST3 (55.5%), ST4 (0.8%), ST6 (2%) and ST7 (0.8%); alleles 1, 2, 4, 81, 82 and 83 for ST1; alleles 9, 11, 12, 15, 67, 71 and 73 for ST2; alleles 34, 36, 38, 45, 49, 55, 134 and 128 for ST3; allele 42 for ST4; allele 122 for ST6, and allele 142 for ST7. Further studies implementing high-resolution molecular markers are necessary to understand the dynamics of Blastocystis transmission and the role of this Stramenopila in health and disease.
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MESH Headings
- Adolescent
- Alleles
- Asymptomatic Diseases
- Blastocystis/classification
- Blastocystis/genetics
- Blastocystis Infections/epidemiology
- Blastocystis Infections/parasitology
- Child
- Child, Preschool
- Coinfection
- Colombia/epidemiology
- DNA Barcoding, Taxonomic
- DNA, Protozoan/analysis
- DNA, Protozoan/isolation & purification
- DNA, Ribosomal/analysis
- DNA, Ribosomal/isolation & purification
- Feces/parasitology
- Female
- Genetic Variation
- Geography, Medical
- Health Surveys
- Humans
- Intestinal Diseases, Parasitic/parasitology
- Male
- RNA, Protozoan/genetics
- RNA, Ribosomal, 18S/genetics
- Real-Time Polymerase Chain Reaction
- Ribotyping
- Species Specificity
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan David Ramírez
- Grupo de Investigaciones Microbiológicas – UR (GIMUR), Programa de Biología, Facultad de Ciencias Naturales y Matemáticas, Universidad del Rosario, Bogotá – Colombia
- * E-mail:
| | - Carolina Flórez
- Grupo de Parasitología, Instituto Nacional de Salud, Bogotá – Colombia
| | - Mario Olivera
- Grupo de Parasitología, Instituto Nacional de Salud, Bogotá – Colombia
| | - María Consuelo Bernal
- Programa profesional de Biología, Grupo de Investigación en Parasitología y Microbiología tropical – GIPAMT, Universidad Incca de Colombia, Bogotá – Colombia
| | - Julio Cesar Giraldo
- Programa profesional de Biología, Grupo de Investigación en Parasitología y Microbiología tropical – GIPAMT, Universidad Incca de Colombia, Bogotá – Colombia
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50
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Abstract
Objectives: To determine the associated clinical symptoms and prevalence of Blastocystis hominis (B. hominis). Methods: Stool samples of 50,185 patients (26,784 males and 23,401 females) who were received at the Parasitology Laboratory of Yuzuncu Yil University Faculty of Medicine, Van, Turkey in the last 5 years were inspected microscopically using saline and iodine-stained wet-mount preparations. Age, gender, and symptoms of patients were recorded and their significance was evaluated. Results: The prevalence of B. hominis in the total sample was 0.54% (275/50185). Out of 275 infected patients, 143 (52%) were males, and 132 (48%) were female (χ2=0.884; p=0.348). The distribution of B. hominis infection was high in 7-13 aged children (34.9%) (χ2=306.8; p=0.001). Blastocystis was higher among symptomatic patients (70.2%) compared with asymptomatic patients (29.8%) (χ2=107.13; p=0.001). The most frequent clinical symptoms associated with the disease were abdominal pain (27.3%) and diarrhea (19.6%) followed by anorexia, fever, saliva, anal itching, and nausea. Conclusion: Blastocystis hominis is considered a causative agent of human disease in patients with recurrent symptoms. Due to the significant risk for zoonotic transmission, molecular techniques must be used to determine the route and source of infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yunus E Beyhan
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Yuzuncu Yil University, Zeve Campus, Van, Turkey. E-mail.
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