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Biomedical Journal Sep 2023Intestinal parasitic infections are the most common infectious diseases among Southeast Asian migrant workers in Taiwan, especially for infections with Blastocystis...
BACKGROUND
Intestinal parasitic infections are the most common infectious diseases among Southeast Asian migrant workers in Taiwan, especially for infections with Blastocystis hominis. However, little is known about the impact of Blastocystis subtypes (STs) on the gut microbiota.
MATERIAL AND METHODS
We retrospectively evaluated the prevalence of intestinal parasites in a teaching hospital in Northern Taiwan in the period of 2015 to 2019. Blastocystis-positive stool specimens were collected for ST analysis by polymerase chain reaction in 2020. Intestinal microbiota analyses of different Blastocystis STs and Blastocystis-free individuals were conducted by 16S rRNA sequencing.
RESULTS
A total of 13,859 subjects were analyzed, of which 1,802 cases (13%) were diagnosed with intestinal parasitic infections. B. hominis infections were the most prevalent (n = 1546, 85.7%). ST analysis of Blastocystis-positive samples (n=150) indicated that ST1 was the most common type, followed by ST3, ST4, ST2, ST7, and ST5. Different Blastocystis STs (ST1, ST3, and ST4) were associated with distinct richness and diversity of the microbiota. Taxonomic profiles revealed that Akkermansia muciniphila was significantly enriched for all analyzed Blastocystis STs, whereas Holdemanella biformis was more abundant in the Blastocystis-free group. Additionally, Succinivibrio dextrinosolvens and Coprococcus eutactus were specifically more abundant in ST3 carriers than in non-infected individuals.
CONCLUSIONS
This study demonstrates that A. muciniphila is positively associated with all Blastocystis STs, while H. biformis was negatively associated with them. Several bacteria were enriched in specific STs, highlighting the need for further microbiota analysis at the ST level to elucidate the pathogenicity of Blastocystis.
PubMed: 37774792
DOI: 10.1016/j.bj.2023.100661 -
Pharmaceutics Jun 2023Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) are ultra-small silver particles with a size from 1 to 100 nanometers. Unlike bulk silver, they have unique physical and chemical... (Review)
Review
Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) are ultra-small silver particles with a size from 1 to 100 nanometers. Unlike bulk silver, they have unique physical and chemical properties. Numerous studies have shown that AgNPs have beneficial biological effects on various diseases, including antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antiparasitic, and antiviruses. One of the most well-known applications is in the field of antibacterial applications, where AgNPs have strong abilities to kill multi-drug resistant bacteria, making them a potential candidate as an antibacterial drug. Recently, AgNPs synthesized from plant extracts have exhibited outstanding antiparasitic effects, with a shorter duration of use and enhanced ability to inhibit parasite multiplication compared to traditional antiparasitic drugs. This review summarizes the types, characteristics, and the mechanism of action of AgNPs in anti-parasitism, mainly focusing on their effects in leishmaniasis, flukes, cryptosporidiosis, toxoplasmosis, , , and . The aim is to provide a reference for the application of AgNPs in the prevention and control of parasitic diseases.
PubMed: 37513969
DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics15071783 -
Journal of Water and Health Oct 2023The current study presents a comprehensive review of worldwide waterborne parasitic protozoan outbreaks reported between 2017 and 2022. In total, 416 outbreaks were... (Review)
Review
The current study presents a comprehensive review of worldwide waterborne parasitic protozoan outbreaks reported between 2017 and 2022. In total, 416 outbreaks were attributed to the waterborne transmission of parasitic protozoa. Cryptosporidium accounted for 77.4% (322) of outbreaks, while Giardia was identified as the etiological agent in 17.1% (71). Toxoplasma gondii and Naegleria fowleri were the primary causes in 1.4% (6) and 1% (4) of outbreaks, respectively. Blastocystis hominis, Cyclospora cayetanensis, and Dientamoeba fragilis were independently identified in 0.72% (3) of outbreaks. Moreover, Acanthamoeba spp., Entamoeba histolytica, Vittaforma corneae, and Enterocytozoon bieneusi were independently the causal agents in 0.24% (1) of the total outbreaks. The majority of the outbreaks (195, 47%) were reported in North America. The suspected sources for 313 (75.2%) waterborne parasitic outbreaks were recreational water and/or swimming pools, accounting for 92% of the total Cryptosporidium outbreaks. Furthermore, 25.3% of the outbreaks caused by Giardia were associated with recreational water and/or swimming pools. Developing countries are most likely to be impacted by such outbreaks due to the lack of reliable monitoring strategies and water treatment processes. There is still a need for international surveillance and reporting systems concerning both waterborne diseases and water contamination with parasitic protozoa.
Topics: Animals; Humans; Parasites; Cryptosporidiosis; Cryptosporidium; Disease Outbreaks; Giardiasis; Giardia
PubMed: 37902200
DOI: 10.2166/wh.2023.094 -
Microorganisms Jun 2023is an intestinal protozoan that is often neglected, despite causing abdominal pain and diarrhea. Previous research has demonstrated that lipids can be synthesized by...
is an intestinal protozoan that is often neglected, despite causing abdominal pain and diarrhea. Previous research has demonstrated that lipids can be synthesized by or can accumulate in growth medium, but their function and mechanisms in the pathogenesis of remain unclear. Our study found that lipid-rich ST7-B can increase inflammation and disrupt Caco-2 cells more than the same parasite without the lipovenoes supplement. Additionally, the cysteine protease of , a virulence factor, is upregulated and has higher activity in lipid-rich . In order to better understand the effects of lipids on pathogenesis, we treated lipid-lowering pravastatin during ST7-B culturing with a lipovenoes supplement, which decreased the lipid levels of the and reduced the -induced inflammation and cell disruption of Caco-2 cells. We also analyzed the fatty acid composition and possible synthesis pathway in ST7-B, finding significantly higher ratios of arachidonic acid, oleic acid, and palmitic acid than in the other lipid components in lipid-rich ST7-B. These results suggest that lipids play a significant role in the pathogenesis of and provide important information on the molecular mechanisms of and potential treatments for infection.
PubMed: 37375084
DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms11061582 -
Food and Waterborne Parasitology Mar 2024and are foodborne parasites known for causing diarrhea. They accumulate in mussels grown on contaminated water bodies, due to the discharge of treated sewage from...
and are foodborne parasites known for causing diarrhea. They accumulate in mussels grown on contaminated water bodies, due to the discharge of treated sewage from sewage treatment plants (STP). Despite this, some countries like Chile do not include these parasites in the control or monitoring of sewage water. The objective of this research was to evaluate the contamination of . and from treated sewage (disinfected by chlorination) and Cholga mussels in a touristic rural cove from the bay of Concepción. Cholga mussels from commercial stores and a treated sewage sample were analyzed. spp. was identified by Ziehl-Neelsen-Staining (ZNS) and by direct-immunofluorescence assay (IFA) from ZNS-positive samples. was identified by PCR using locus SSU rDNA. and subtype ST3 were found in 40% and 45% of Cholga mussel samples, respectively, and both parasites were identified in the treated sewage. SSU rDNA gene alignment from Cholga mussels and treated sewage showed 89% of similarity, indicating that could be the same parasite in both samples. We describe the first evidence of possible contamination with these parasites from treated sewage to Cholga mussel suggesting an environmental contamination with high human risk. Based on these results, further studies will consider all the rural coves and STP from the bay to prevent possible contamination of these parasites.
PubMed: 38188968
DOI: 10.1016/j.fawpar.2023.e00214 -
Scientific Reports Jun 2023In developing countries, the prevalence of intestinal parasitic infection is still significant, particularly due to geographical and socioeconomic variables. The...
In developing countries, the prevalence of intestinal parasitic infection is still significant, particularly due to geographical and socioeconomic variables. The objective of this study was to map the distribution pattern of intestinal parasitic infection in a cohort of the Egyptian population, as well as to assess associated risk factors. A cross-sectional hospital-based study was conducted on 386 patients. A single fecal specimen was collected from the study individual and examined microscopically for the detection of parasitic infection. DNA was extracted from all samples and utilized to amplify Entamoeba histolytica complex species, Cryptosporidium species, Giardia intestinalis assemblages, and Blastocystis species using PCRs. Typing of Cryptosporidium species and Giardia intestinalis assemblages was performed using restriction enzymes RasI and HaeIII respectively. While Blastocystis spp. subtypes (ST) were identified through sequencing of PCR products and phylogenetic analysis. 59.6% (230/386) of the study patients were infected with one or more intestinal parasites, 87.4%; 201/230 of patients had mono-parasitic infections, and 12.6%; 29/230 had multiple-parasitic infections (P < 0.0001). The predominant protozoa were Blastocystis, followed by Entamoeba histolytica complex, and Giardia intestinalis both as mono-parasites and as part of multiple parasites. Molecular assays showed that Blastocystis ST3, Entamoeba dispar, Giardia intestinalis assemblage B, and Cryptosporidium hominis were the most prevalent species. Intestinal parasitic infection was significantly associated with age, gender, residence, and water source. Multi-parasitism showed that residency in a rural area was a risk factor (OR 4.49; 95% CI 1.51-13.37; P = 0.007). Egyptians residing in rural areas have a high prevalence of intestinal multi-parasitism. Therefore, to lessen the prevalence and effects of these infections in this group, effective and sustainable control methods, providing health education focusing on good personal hygiene habits, and providing a safe drinking water supply should be implemented.
Topics: Humans; Cryptosporidiosis; Cross-Sectional Studies; Phylogeny; Egypt; Cryptosporidium; Intestinal Diseases, Parasitic; Giardia lamblia; Blastocystis; Entamoeba histolytica
PubMed: 37340037
DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-36320-z -
Zhongguo Xue Xi Chong Bing Fang Zhi Za... Sep 2023is a common unicellular intestinal protozoa in humans and animals, and the most common clinical manifestations of infections include abdominal pain and diarrhea. Based... (Review)
Review
is a common unicellular intestinal protozoa in humans and animals, and the most common clinical manifestations of infections include abdominal pain and diarrhea. Based on the sequence of the small-subunit ribosomal RNA () gene, 28 subtypes of (ST1 to ST17, ST21 and ST23 to ST32) have been characterized. Previous studies have demonstrated that infection is strongly associated with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and other intestinal diseases, which threatens the health and quality of life among patients with infection and is considered as an important public health problem. This review summarizes the progress of researches on infection among IBD and IBS patients during the past 20 years, so as to provide insights into management of blastocystosis in China.
Topics: Animals; Humans; Irritable Bowel Syndrome; Blastocystis Infections; Quality of Life; Blastocystis hominis; Feces; Inflammatory Bowel Diseases
PubMed: 37926479
DOI: 10.16250/j.32.1374.2022261 -
Infectious Diseases of Poverty Sep 2023Blastocystis hominis (Bh) is zoonotic parasitic pathogen with a high prevalent globally, causing opportunistic infections and diarrhea disease. Human immunodeficiency... (Observational Study)
Observational Study
BACKGROUND
Blastocystis hominis (Bh) is zoonotic parasitic pathogen with a high prevalent globally, causing opportunistic infections and diarrhea disease. Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection disrupts the immune system by depleting CD4 T lymphocyte (CD4 T) cell counts, thereby increasing Bh infection risk among persons living with HIV (PLWH). However, the precise association between Bh infection risk and HIV-related biological markers and treatment processes remains poorly understood. Hence, the purpose of the study was to explore the association between Bh infection risk and CD4 T cell counts, HIV viral load (VL), and duration of interruption in antiviral therapy among PLWH.
METHODS
A large-scale multi-center cross-sectional study was conducted in China from June 2020 to December 2022. The genetic presence of Bh in fecal samples was detected by real-time fluorescence quantitative polymerase chain reaction, the CD4 T cell counts in venous blood was measured using flowcytometry, and the HIV VL in serum was quantified using fluorescence-based instruments. Restricted cubic spline (RCS) was applied to assess the non-linear association between Bh infection risk and CD4 T cell counts, HIV VL, and duration of interruption in highly active antiretroviral therapy (HARRT).
RESULTS
A total of 1245 PLWH were enrolled in the study, the average age of PLWH was 43 years [interquartile range (IQR): 33, 52], with 452 (36.3%) being female, 50.4% (n = 628) had no immunosuppression (CD4 T cell counts > 500 cells/μl), and 78.1% (n = 972) achieved full virological suppression (HIV VL < 50 copies/ml). Approximately 10.5% (n = 131) of PLWH had interruption. The prevalence of Bh was found to be 4.9% [95% confidence interval (CI): 3.8-6.4%] among PLWH. Significant nonlinear associations were observed between the Bh infection risk and CD4 T cell counts (P < 0.001, L-shaped), HIV VL (P < 0.001, inverted U-shaped), and duration of interruption in HARRT (P < 0.001, inverted U-shaped).
CONCLUSIONS
The study revealed that VL was a better predictor of Bh infection than CD4 T cell counts. It is crucial to consider the simultaneous surveillance of HIV VL and CD4 T cell counts in PLWH in the regions with high level of socioeconomic development. The integrated approach can offer more comprehensive and accurate understanding in the aspects of Bh infection and other opportunistic infections, the efficacy of therapeutic drugs, and the assessment of preventive and control strategies.
Topics: Humans; Female; Adult; Male; HIV; Blastocystis Infections; Cross-Sectional Studies; China; Antiretroviral Therapy, Highly Active
PubMed: 37697423
DOI: 10.1186/s40249-023-01137-5 -
Acta Parasitologica Mar 2024Blastocystis hominis (B. hominis) is a protozoan parasite that has a worldwide distribution. Some studies have suggested a link between B. hominis and the development of... (Review)
Review
BACKGROUND
Blastocystis hominis (B. hominis) is a protozoan parasite that has a worldwide distribution. Some studies have suggested a link between B. hominis and the development of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). The objective of this study was to determine the prevalence of B. hominis in patients with IBS compared to healthy individuals.
MATERIAL AND METHODS
A total of 65 stool samples from patients with IBS and 65 samples from healthy individuals in northern Iran were examined. The samples were tested using various methods including direct smear, formalin ether sedimentation and culture to detect the presence of B. hominis. Additionally, polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was performed on all culture-positive isolates to confirm the results and identify the genotype.
RESULTS
B. hominis was detected in 15.38% of IBS patients and 9.2% of the healthy group. The culture in RPMI1640 was found to be better than the formalin ether and direct smear methods. Positive samples were confirmed using the molecular method. No significant difference was observed in the order of B. hominis infection between the two groups.
CONCLUSIONS
The results of our study indicate that no significant difference was observed in the order of B. hominis infection between IBS patients and healthy groups. Therefore, further study is necessary to determine the potential pathogenic effects of this parasite and its role in causing IBS.
Topics: Adolescent; Adult; Female; Humans; Male; Middle Aged; Young Adult; Blastocystis hominis; Blastocystis Infections; Case-Control Studies; Feces; Iran; Irritable Bowel Syndrome; Polymerase Chain Reaction; Prevalence
PubMed: 38300499
DOI: 10.1007/s11686-023-00787-7 -
International Journal of Dermatology Feb 2024Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is a painful skin condition that significantly affects patients' quality of life. Biologic agents, including anti-TNF agents and IL-17... (Meta-Analysis)
Meta-Analysis Review
Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is a painful skin condition that significantly affects patients' quality of life. Biologic agents, including anti-TNF agents and IL-17 inhibitors, have shown promise as treatment options for HS. However, there is concern about the increased risk of infections associated with these therapies. We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis following PRISMA and MOOSE guidelines. We searched PubMed and Embase until February 1, 2023. The primary outcome of interest was the incidence of any infectious complications. Secondary outcomes included serious and opportunistic infections in HS patients treated with biologics or other immunomodulators. Twenty-four studies met our inclusion criteria, comprising 1,696 patients. The pooled incidence rate for any infection was 24.2%, primarily consisting of mild respiratory and skin infections. Subgroup analysis based on the mechanism of action (MOA) showed a pooled incidence of 7.77% for anti-IL1, 14.24% for anti-PDE4, and 21.96% for anti-TNF. Notably, patients receiving anti-IL17 had the highest incidence rate of infection at 33.6%, but the relative risk compared to placebo was not significantly elevated (0.99, 95% CI: 0.86-1.14). Serious infections were rare, with pooled incidences of 0.39% for anti-IL17 and 0.03% for anti-TNF. Opportunistic infections were infrequent, with 10 reported cases, including eight oral candidiasis, one cryptosporidiosis, and one Blastocystis hominis infection. The use of biologic therapies in HS patients does not significantly increase the risk of infectious complications. Additionally, the occurrence of serious or opportunistic infections in HS patients treated with biologics appears to be minimal.
Topics: Humans; Hidradenitis Suppurativa; Biological Products; Quality of Life; Tumor Necrosis Factor Inhibitors; Opportunistic Infections; Immunologic Factors
PubMed: 37888493
DOI: 10.1111/ijd.16885