Work

Spatial and Genetic Diversity of Clinical Isolates of Blastocystis in Italy: A Network Analysis

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Blastocystis is a common intestinal protist with global distribution, frequently found in humans and various animals. Despite its prevalence, its role in human health remains debated, oscillating between being a harmless commensal and a potential pathogen, also linked to gastrointestinal disorders, such as irritable bowel syn-drome (IBS) and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). In Italy, the genetic and spatial diversity of Blastocystis remains understudied, despite the country's diverse urbanized and environmental landscapes. This study focuses on the haplotypic and spatial diversity of clinical isolates of Blastocystis across two different Italian regions, with an emphasis on subtype distribution and genetic variation. Using a network-based haplotype analysis, the study reveals a heterogeneous subtype distribution, with subtype ST4 being the most prevalent, followed by ST3, ST1, and ST2. Notably, ST4 shows limited haplotypic variation, suggesting a more stable population structure potentially linked to a human-adapted lineage. In contrast, ST1 and ST2 exhibit greater genetic diversity, likely due to ongoing zoonotic transmission. These findings contribute to understanding the epidemiology of Blastocystis in Italy and highlight the need for further research on its pathogenic potential and transmission dynamics.

Source: Pathogens

DOI: 10.3390/pathogens14020139

Authors: Isabel Guadano-Procesi, Federica Berrilli, David Di Cave

Institution: University of Rome Tor Vergata

Language: English

Topic: Parasitic Infections and Diagnostics

Subfield: Parasitology

Field: Immunology and Microbiology

Domain: Life Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,654