Molecular characterization and new genotypes of Enterocytozoon bieneusi in pet chipmunks (Eutamias asiaticus) in Sichuan province, China

• DOI: 10.1186/s12866-018-1175-y
• Publication Date: 2018-04-18T07:25:48Z
• Authors: Lei Deng; Wei Li; Zhijun Zhong; Yijun Chai; Leli Yang; Hang Zheng; Wuyou Wang; Hualin Fu; Min He; Xiangming Huang; Zhicai Zuo; Ya Wang; Suizhong Cao; Haifeng Liu; Xiaoping Ma; Kongju Wu; Guangneng Peng
• Keywords: Enterocytozoon bieneusi; Zoonosis

Enterocytozoon bieneusi, the most commonly identified microsporidian species in humans, is also livestock, birds, rodents, reptiles, companion animals, even wastewater. However, there no information available on occurrence of E. bieneusi pet chipmunks. The aim present study was to determine genotypes, molecular characterization chipmunks, and assess zoonotic potential. A total 279 fecal specimens were collected from chipmunks seven shops one breeding facility Sichuan province, China. prevalence for 17.6% (49/279) based nested PCR targeting internal transcribed spacer (ITS) region. < 90 days age significantly higher than that older chipmunks; however, differences among different sources between genders not significant. Eight genotypes identified, including four known (D, Nig7, CHG9, CHY1) novel (SCC-1 4). Phylogenetic analysis classified these into distinct groups as follows: D CHG9 clustered group 1 potential; Nig7 CHY1 6 a new group, respectively; 4) formed separate named 10. To best our knowledge, this first reporting Genotypes found study, have been previously which suggests might play role transmission pathogen humans.