Blastocystis: view from atop the gut–brain iceberg

Leonardi, Steven Santino; Tan, Kevin Shyong-Wei

doi:10.1016/j.pt.2023.10.002

Cited by 4 publications

(6 citation statements)

References 15 publications

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“…The relationship between Blastocystis subtypes, chronic stress, and IBS may need to be balanced by the CNS and gut microbiome [ 137 ]. A recent study suggests that Blastocystis may have the ability to influence the host’s behavior and mood through the tryptophan synthesis pathway [ 138 ].…”

Section: Blastocystis and The Gut–brain Axismentioning

confidence: 99%

“…The gastrointestinal system is a complex and dynamic environment. Blastocystis exhibits broad genetic diversity, and the mechanisms and relationships between various subspecies and eubiosis/dysbiosis are being investigated [ 138 , 139 , 140 , 141 ]. Changes in gut microbiota species and critical metabolite levels in Blastocystis -colonized individuals may produce various potent signaling molecules in tryptophan metabolism [ 138 , 142 ].…”

Section: Blastocystis and The Gut–brain Axismentioning

confidence: 99%

“…Blastocystis exhibits broad genetic diversity, and the mechanisms and relationships between various subspecies and eubiosis/dysbiosis are being investigated [ 138 , 139 , 140 , 141 ]. Changes in gut microbiota species and critical metabolite levels in Blastocystis -colonized individuals may produce various potent signaling molecules in tryptophan metabolism [ 138 , 142 ]. These molecules may influence the gut microbiome–brain axis by altering tryptophan levels in gastrointestinal and neurological signaling pathways [ 138 , 143 ].…”

Section: Blastocystis and The Gut–brain Axismentioning

confidence: 99%

“…Changes in gut microbiota species and critical metabolite levels in Blastocystis -colonized individuals may produce various potent signaling molecules in tryptophan metabolism [ 138 , 142 ]. These molecules may influence the gut microbiome–brain axis by altering tryptophan levels in gastrointestinal and neurological signaling pathways [ 138 , 143 ]. Blastocystis may also contribute to the balance of the bidirectional gut–brain axis ( Figure 3 ).…”

Section: Blastocystis and The Gut–brain Axismentioning

confidence: 99%

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Blastocystis: A Mysterious Member of the Gut Microbiome

Aykur,

Malatyalı,

Demirel

et al. 2024

Microorganisms

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Blastocystis is the most common gastrointestinal protist found in humans and animals. Although the clinical significance of Blastocystis remains unclear, the organism is increasingly being viewed as a commensal member of the gut microbiome. However, its impact on the microbiome is still being debated. It is unclear whether Blastocystis promotes a healthy gut and microbiome directly or whether it is more likely to colonize and persist in a healthy gut environment. In healthy people, Blastocystis is frequently associated with increased bacterial diversity and significant differences in the gut microbiome. Based on current knowledge, it is not possible to determine whether differences in the gut microbiome are the cause or result of Blastocystis colonization. Although it is possible that some aspects of this eukaryote’s role in the intestinal microbiome remain unknown and that its effects vary, possibly due to subtype and intra-subtype variations and immune modulation, more research is needed to characterize these mechanisms in greater detail. This review covers recent findings on the effects of Blastocystis in the gut microbiome and immune modulation, its impact on the microbiome in autoimmune diseases, whether Blastocystis has a role like bacteria in the gut–brain axis, and its relationship with probiotics.

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Section: Blastocystis and The Gut–brain Axismentioning

confidence: 99%

Section: Blastocystis and The Gut–brain Axismentioning

confidence: 99%

Section: Blastocystis and The Gut–brain Axismentioning

confidence: 99%

Section: Blastocystis and The Gut–brain Axismentioning

confidence: 99%

See 2 more Smart Citations

Blastocystis: A Mysterious Member of the Gut Microbiome

Aykur,

Malatyalı,

Demirel

et al. 2024

Microorganisms

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“…It is also responsible for over 90% of documented cases of human microsporidiosis with varying clinical symptoms, typically diarrhea and wasting [ 22 , 25 ]. Blastocystis can parasitize the colon and caecum of reptiles, birds, and mammals [ 26 ]. Furthermore, it exhibits global infections in humans, with infection rates exceeding 45% in certain countries [ 27 ].…”

Section: Introductionmentioning

confidence: 99%

Molecular characterization and zoonotic potential of Entamoeba spp., Enterocytozoon bieneusi and Blastocystis from captive wild animals in northwest China

Wang,

Zeng,

et al. 2024

BMC Vet Res

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Background Parasites Entamoeba spp., Enterocytozoon bieneusi and Blastocystis are prevalent pathogens causing gastrointestinal illnesses in animals and humans. Consequently, researches on their occurrence, distribution and hosts are crucial for the well-being of both animals and humans. Due to the confined spaces and frequent interaction between animals and humans, animal sanctuaries have emerged as potential reservoirs for these parasites. In this study, the wildlife sanctuary near the Huang Gorge of the Qinling Mountains in northwest China is chosen as an ideal site for parasite distribution research, considering its expansive stocking area and high biodiversity. Results We collected 191 fecal specimens from 37 distinct wildlife species and extracted genomic DNA. We identified these three parasites by amplifying specific gene regions and analyzed their characteristics and evolutionary relationships. All the parasites exhibited a high overall infection rate, reaching 90.05%. Among them, seven Entamoeba species were identified, accounting for a prevalence of 54.97%, with the highest infection observed in Entamoeba bovis. In total, 11 Enterocytozoon bieneusi genotypes were discovered, representing a prevalence of 35.08%, including three genotypes of human-pathogenic Group 1 and two novel genotypes (SXWZ and SXLG). Additionally, 13 Blastocystis subtypes were detected, showing a prevalence of 74.87% and encompassing eight zoonotic subtypes. All of the above suggests significant possibilities of parasite transmission between animals and humans. Conclusions This study investigated the occurrence and prevalence of three intestinal parasites, enhancing our understanding of their genetic diversity and host ranges in northwest China. Furthermore, the distribution of these parasites implies significant potential of zoonotic transmission, underscoring the imperative for ongoing surveillance and implementation of control measures. These efforts are essential to mitigate the risk of zoonotic disease outbreaks originating from wildlife sanctuary.

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