Molecular and Morphological Characterization ofFasciolaspp. Isolated from Different Host Species in a Newly Emerging Focus of Human Fascioliasis in Iran

Abstract

The current study aimed to find out the morphometric and genotypic divergences of the flukes isolated from different hosts in a newly emerging focus of human fascioliasis in Iran. Adult Fasciola spp. were collected from 34 cattle, 13 sheep, and 11 goats from Kohgiluyeh and Boyer-Ahmad province, southwest of Iran. Genomic DNA was extracted from the flukes and PCR-RFLP was used to characterize the isolates. The ITS1, ITS2, and mitochondrial genes (mtDNA) of NDI and COI from individual liver flukes were amplified and the amplicons were sequenced. Genetic variation within and between the species was evaluated by comparing the sequences. Moreover, morphometric characteristics of flukes were measured through a computer image analysis system. Based on RFLP profile, from the total of 58 isolates, 41 isolates (from cattle, sheep, and goat) were identified as Fasciola hepatica, while 17 isolates from cattle were identified as Fasciola gigantica. Comparison of the ITS1 and ITS2 sequences showed six and seven single-base substitutions, resulting in segregation of the specimens into two different genotypes. The sequences of COI markers showed seven DNA polymorphic sites for F. hepatica and 35 DNA polymorphic sites for F. gigantica. Morphological diversity of the two species was observed in linear, ratios, and areas measurements. The findings have implications for studying the population genetics, epidemiology, and control of the disease.

Study on Prevalence of Fascioliasis in Ruminants in Dasht Room County in Spring and Summer of 2013

“…The prevalence rate of infection in sheep (17.71%) was higher than the one in cattle (16.71%) and in goats (11.69%)), this study showed high prevalence of Fasciola spp in ruminants, in Dasht Room area (29%), due to high human population and proximity to the city of Yasuj and slaughterhouse is very important [19]. as a result of positive human serum against F. hepatica parasites in the area of Sarkari et al and the contamination of livestock in the study should Dasht Room one of the areas at risk and to prevent the high incidence knew Fasciolosis Awareness of the disease is serious action [20].…”

Detection of Fasciola hepatica and Fasciola gigantica common and uncommon antigens, using rabbit hyper immune serum raised against their excretory–secretory and somatic antigens

“…Molecular identification of Fasciola species was performed as previously described (Shafiei et al 2014). Briefly, a part of the apical and lateral zone of the adult flukes were removed and homogenized.…”

“…Fasciola gigantica is present mainly in tropical and F. hepatica in temperate areas, while both species overlapped in subtropical areas including Egypt and Iran (Soliman 2008;Mas-Coma et al 2009;Moghaddam et al 2004;Shafiei et al 2014).…”

“…However, because of variations in size of these two species and the presence of intermediate forms, morphometric features are not appropriate characters for distinguishing of these two species of Fasciola. Nowadays, molecular approaches have been considered as suitable method for discrimination of the Fasciola species (Shafiei et al 2013;Shafiei et al 2014).…”

Identification of Fasciola spp. in the East of Iran, Based on the Spermatogenesis and Nuclear Ribosomal DNA (ITS1) and Mitochondrial (ND1) Genes

“…This province experienced 2 outbreaks of human fascioliasis in 1987 and 1997, affecting more than several thousands of people (3). Moreover, many cases of human fascioliasis were reported from other provinces of Iran (4). Animal fascioliasis is quite frequent in grazing animals generally in most areas of the state and the prevalence reaches about 50% in certain provinces (5).…”