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Isozyme variation of Microsporum canis and M. cookei from New Zealand

M F Simpanya1, B D Jarvis, M Baxter

  • 1Department of Microbiology & Genetics, Massey University, Palmerston North, New Zealand. Simpanya@NOKA.ub.bw

Medical Mycology
|March 13, 1999
PubMed

Insights

Isozyme analysis revealed genetic variation within Microsporum canis, M. cookei, and Diheterospora species. Despite different sources, isolates showed common lineage, suggesting shared ancestry in these fungal species.

Area of Science:

  • Mycology
  • Genetics
  • Veterinary Dermatology

Background:

  • Microsporum canis (Arthroderma otae) is a significant dermatophyte affecting humans, cats, and dogs.
  • Understanding the genetic diversity of dermatophytes is crucial for effective disease management and public health.
  • Isozyme analysis provides a valuable tool for assessing genetic variation within fungal populations.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the genetic variation among Microsporum canis, Microsporum cookei, and Diheterospora species using isozyme electrophoresis.
  • To determine the phylogenetic relationships and population structure of these fungal isolates from various sources in New Zealand.
  • To assess if the host (human, cat, dog) or geographic origin influences the genetic makeup of Microsporum canis.

Main Methods:

  • Isozyme electrophoresis was performed on 54 Microsporum canis isolates (from humans, cats, dogs) and 18 M. cookei and 2 Diheterospora isolates (from soil).
  • Eight isozyme loci were analyzed to differentiate fungal isolates.
  • Clustering analysis using the normalized percentage disagreement (PTC) with average linkage was employed to visualize genetic relationships.

Main Results:

  • Isozyme analysis successfully differentiated the three fungal species into distinct electrophoretic types (ETs).
  • Microsporum cookei formed two clusters, with one cluster containing two subclusters.
  • Microsporum canis exhibited three main genetic divisions, while Diheterospora formed a separate division. Notably, isolates from different hosts and locations were found within the same clusters.
  • Lack of statistical significance in confidence intervals suggests common lineage among isolates from diverse sources.

Conclusions:

  • Isozyme analysis is effective in delineating species and genetic diversity within Microsporum and Diheterospora.
  • The genetic data suggest a common lineage among Microsporum canis isolates, irrespective of their host or geographic origin in New Zealand.
  • Further research is warranted to explore the implications of this genetic homogeneity for disease transmission and control strategies.

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