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Comparison between human and armadillo Paracoccidioides brasiliensis isolates by random amplified polymorphic DNA
1Research Center for Pathogenic Fungi and Microbial Toxicoses, Chiba University, Japan.
Mycopathologia
|June 3, 1999
Summary
Paracoccidioides brasiliensis isolates from humans and armadillos show genetic similarities, suggesting humans may contract the infection from armadillo environments. Some genetic types of P. brasiliensis appear unique to armadillos.
Area of Science:
- Mycology
- Genetics
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Paracoccidioides brasiliensis is a fungus causing paracoccidioidomycosis, a significant human mycosis in Latin America.
- The ecological niche and transmission routes of P. brasiliensis remain incompletely understood, with potential animal reservoirs being investigated.
Purpose of the Study:
- To genetically characterize Paracoccidioides brasiliensis isolates from both clinical (human) and animal (armadillo) sources.
- To investigate potential links between environmental reservoirs, specifically armadillos, and human infections.
Main Methods:
- Random Amplified Polymorphic DNA (RAPD) analysis was employed using the primer OPG-19.
- Sixty-three P. brasiliensis isolates were analyzed: 19 from human patients and 44 from armadillos (Dasypus novemcinctus and Amazonian armadillos).
Main Results:
- The P. brasiliensis isolates clustered into three main genetic groups (I, II, and III) based on RAPD profiles.
- Genetic overlap was observed between human and armadillo isolates in clusters I and II.
- Cluster III comprised exclusively armadillo isolates, indicating potential animal-specific genotypes.
Conclusions:
- Human infection with P. brasiliensis may be acquired through contact with the armadillo's environment.
- Distinct P. brasiliensis genotypes may be specific to armadillos.
- Individual armadillos can harbor P. brasiliensis strains with diverse genetic profiles.