Subtype distribution of Blastocystis spp. in patients with gastrointestinal symptoms in northern Spain

Matovelle, C. ; Quílez, J. (Universidad de Zaragoza) ; Tejedor, M. T. (Universidad de Zaragoza) ; Beltrán, A. (Universidad de Zaragoza) ; Chueca, P. (Universidad de Zaragoza) ; Monteagudo, L.V (Universidad de Zaragoza)

Resumen: Limited molecular data exist on the prevalence and subtype distribution of Blastocystis spp., the most prevalent parasite in human and animal feces worldwide. A total of 44 different subtypes (STs) of Blastocystis are currently recognized based on the sequence of the small subunit ribosomal RNA (SSU-rRNA) gene. This is a molecular study of Blastocystis spp. in hospitalized patients with gastrointestinal symptoms in northern Spain. We analyzed 173 Blastocystis-positive patients with gastrointestinal symptoms by using nested PCR for molecular detection, subtype identification, phylogenetic analyses, and genetic diversity assessment. ST2 (34.1%) and ST3 (34.7%) predominated, followed by ST1 (15.6%) and ST4 (15.6%). Mixed infections with different subtypes were observed in some patients. Sequence analysis revealed for the first time in European humans the allele 88 (a variant of ST1). In other cases, alleles commonly found in animal samples were detected (allele 9 in ST2, allele 34 in ST3, and allele 42 in ST4). Phylogenetic analysis showed high variability in ST1 and ST2, suggesting a polyphyletic origin, while both ST3 and ST4 exhibited higher genetic homogeneity, indicating a possible monophyletic origin and recent transmission to humans. These data confirm Blastocystis spp. subtype diversity and may help in understanding the evolutionary processes and potential zoonotic transmission of this parasite.

Idioma: Inglés

DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms12061084

Año: 2024

Publicado en: Microorganisms 12, 1084 (2024), 15
ISSN: 2076-2607

Financiación: info:eu-repo/grantAgreement/ES/DGA/A16-23R
Financiación: info:eu-repo/grantAgreement/ES/DGA/B43-23R

Tipo y forma: Article (Published version)

Área (Departamento): Área Genética (Dpto. Anatom.,Embri.Genét.Ani.)
Área (Departamento): Área Sanidad Animal (Dpto. Patología Animal)
Área (Departamento): Área Técnica. Lab. y Talleres (Dpto. Anatom.,Embri.Genét.Ani.)
Área (Departamento): Área Tecnología de Alimentos (Dpto. Produc.Animal Cienc.Ali.)