Biofilms for Monitoring Presence of Microsporidia in Environmental Water

Abstract

The development of molecular methodologies for targeting pathogens such as the Microsporidia has greatly improved our monitoring capabilities and initiatives. This study analyzed samples collected from five locations in Pensacola, Florida, USA for the presence of Microsporidian pathogens. To circumvent various impediments associated with water collection and filtration, we utilized biofilms as sentinels for detection of Microsporidia. We implemented membrane-dissolution and sample purification in a single confined step followed by real-time PCR to confirm pathogen presence. The results of this study demonstrate that microsporidia are present in environmental water sites in the Florida panhandle and that biofilms may serve as another alternative mode to circumvent filtration methods for their detection.

Surveillance of Microsporidia and Protozoan Pathogens in Pensacola Florida: A One‐year Study

“…Our results show seasonal variation in concentrations of Microsporidia spores in the Pensacola Bayou Texar water‐way, emphasizing a higher public health risk in recreational waters during summer months. Consistent with the pilot study (Moss and Snyder ), the highest occurrences of E . bieneusi were at sampling points near the Bayou Texar Dog Park.…”

“…As with the previous pilot study, E. bieneusi and Encephalitozoon spp. were detected in biofilms grown on periphytometers deployed at various locations within the Bayou Texar water system (Moss and Snyder 2017). Though, the spectrum of pathogens may vary due to fluctuations the environment and in host presence.…”

“…Biofilms were grown using periphytometers (Lewis et al. ; Moss and Snyder ) at five locations within Pensacola, Florida including Bayou Texar Dog Park (Bayview Park Pier) and Sanders Beach (mouth of Bayou Chico) where water quality tests for Enterococcus sp. (Environmental Protection Agency, Method 1600 ) are routinely (weekly; monthly) administered.…”

“…For the sake of consistency, with the exception of deployment periods (see below) methods and locations are identical to the previous pilot study (Moss and Snyder 2017). Biofilms were grown using periphytometers (Lewis et al 2000;Moss and Snyder 2017)…”

“…Herein, we present a continuation to a pilot study (Moss and Snyder 2017) to determine whether Microsporidia pathogens are routinely present in the Bayous of the Pensacola Bay system, Pensacola, Florida. Point and non-point source pollution and development have impaired the health of the waters in the region as evidenced by elevated levels of fecal coliform and enterococcus (Mohrherr et al 2008;Snyder 2006).…”