Considerable genetic diversity within Paragonimus heterotremus in Luang Prabang, northern Lao People's Democratic Republic

• DOI: 10.1016/j.meegid.2025.105718
• Publication Date: 2025-01-15T21:31:00Z
• Authors: Alongkorn Nonthapa; Rutchanee Rodpai; Tongjit Thanchomnang; Patcharaporn Boon...; Lakkhana Sadaow; David Blair; Pewpan M. Intapan; Wanchai Maleewong; Virasack Banouvong; Sakhone Laymanivong; Oranuch Sanpool

Paragonimiasis, caused by infection with lung flukes of the genus Paragonimus, remains a significant public health concern in Southeast Asia. In Lao People's Democratic Republic (Lao PDR), information on distribution and genetic diversity Paragonimus species is limited. This study investigated metacercariae freshwater (mountain) crabs analyzed their phylogenetic relationships. Thirty-six (Indochinamon sp.) were received from Xiang Ngeun Pak Ou Luang Prabang Province, northern PDR. Partial mitochondrial 16S rRNA sequences obtained four indicated moderately close relationship Indochinamon ou. A total 81 identified morphologically as heterotremus found among 13 out 32 dissected (40.6 %). Molecular analyses targeting ribosomal ITS2 region cytochrome c oxidase subunit 1 (cox1) gene conducted these metacercariae. Phylogenetic revealed that P. PDR clustered those neighboring countries-China, Myanmar, Vietnam Thailand-suggesting potential connectivity eastern Asian populations. Haplotype-network analysis demonstrated within populations PDR, separating into two distinct haplotype groups, one which was unique to this study. first report sp. serve key intermediate host for member complex Province highlights parasite's region.