Genetic Diversity and Zoonotic Potential of Blastocystis in Korean Water Deer, Hydropotes inermis argyropus

• DOI: 10.3390/pathogens9110955
• Publication Date: 2020-11-17T12:23:28Z
• Authors: Kyoo-Tae Kim; Gyeonguk Noh; Haeseung Lee; Seon-Hee Kim; Hyesung Jeong; Yongkwan Kim; Weon-Hwa Jheong; Jae-Ku Oem; Tae-Hwan Kim; Oh-Deog Kwon; Dongmi Kwak
• Keywords: Blastocystis; Zoonosis; Diversity index

Blastocystis is a protozoan parasite commonly detected in the intestinal tract of humans and animals. It has been actively studied worldwide; however, information on limited Korea. Because there an increasing concern about contact between wildlife domestic animals or humans, we assessed infection status zoonotic potential Korean water deer (KWD, Hydropotes inermis argyropus) using genotyping phylogenetic analysis. A total 125 fresh fecal samples were collected from KWD which killed by vehicles highways roadsides this study. Among samples, 51 (40.8%) PCR positive. We performed nucleotide sequencing analysis 26 PCR-positive samples. By analyzing 18S rRNA, two subtypes (ST4 ST14) identified Of analyzed, 25 as ST14 one ST4. Infection not reported. Although only ST4 sample was study, without showing ruminant specificity. Thus, continuous attention should be provided to transmission humans.