Work

Molecular detection and phylogenetic analysis of microsporidia in stool specimens isolated from multiple sclerosis patients in the west of Iran

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Intestinal microsporidiosis is an emerging opportunistic infection that primarily affects individuals with compromised immune systems. This study investigated intestinal microsporidia infections in individuals diagnosed with multiple sclerosis (MS) and elucidated the genetic diversity and evolutionary relationships of microsporidia. A total of 116 stool samples were collected from individuals diagnosed with MS, including 54 men and 63 women, during 2022–2023 in Kurdistan Province, western Iran. The mean age of the participants was 38.28 ± 7.8 years. RNA extraction was performed, followed by amplification of the small subunit ribosomal RNA (SSU rRNA) to identify and characterize microsporidia and their associated genetic markers. A phylogenetic tree was constructed using MEGA X software to explore the evolutionary relationships among the isolates. PCR revealed Enterocytozoon bieneusi in 5 of 116 samples (4.3 %), whereas no positive cases of Encephalitozoon species were detected. Additionally, no statistically significant associations were observed between the presence of microsporidia and variables such as age, sex, or geographic region. This study highlights the clinical significance of Enterocytozoon bieneusi in immunocompromised populations, particularly in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS). The findings underscore the potential role of zoonotic transmission and highlight the urgent need for enhanced diagnostic capabilities and preventive strategies to combat intestinal microsporidiosis in vulnerable groups, particularly in regions such as western Iran. • Prevalence of Enterocytozoon bieneusi : E. bieneusi was detected in 4.3% of MS patients' stool samples in Kurdistan, Iran, with no Encephalitozoon spp. cases found. • Phylogenetic Analysis: SSU rRNA phylogenetic analysis showed E. bieneusi isolates closely related to known human and animal strains in Iran. • Animal Contact as a Risk Factor: A significant link was found between animal contact and E. bieneusi infection, highlighting zoonotic transmission risks. • Unique Population Focus: This is the first study on microsporidia detection and phylogeny in MS patients in this region, providing novel epidemiological data. • Implications for Public Health: Findings emphasize awareness of microsporidiosis in immunocompromised individuals, especially in animal-exposed regions like Kurdistan, Iran.

Source: Infection Genetics and Evolution

DOI: 10.1016/j.meegid.2025.105720

Authors: Hadi Abbasnia, Taher Mohammadian, Mohammadbagher Khademerfan, Fares Bahrami, Mansoureh Paknejadi

Institutions: Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Islamic Azad University, Shahr-e-Qods Branch, Kurdistan University of Medical Sciences

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: $2,730