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[Encephalitozoon cuniculi and Encephalitozoon intestinalis--causes of opportunistic infections]
1Parazitologický ústav AV CR, Biologická fakulta, Jihoceská univerzita, Ceské Budĕjovice. george@paru.cas.cz
Abstract:
Microsporidia (phylum Microsporidia) are intracellular parasites that infect a wide range of protozoa, invertebrates and vertebrate hosts. Over a 1000 species have been classified into approximately 100 genera. Historically, microsporidial infections in silkworms, honey bees, and salmonid fish have been responsible for significant economic losses. More recently, microsporidiosis has been recognized as an important opportunistic infection in immunologically compromised patients. In this review there is information on the immunobiology of microsporidia Encephalitozoon cuniculi and Encephalitozoon intestinalis which were identified as the most common causative agents of microsporidiosis in mammals. Most of what is known about the immunology of microsporidiosis is based on experiments with the microsporidian Encephalitozoon cuniculi.
Insights
Microsporidia are intracellular parasites causing economic losses and opportunistic infections in immunocompromised patients. This review focuses on the immunobiology of Encephalitozoon cuniculi and Encephalitozoon intestinalis, common causes of microsporidiosis.
Area of Science:
- Parasitology
- Immunology
- Microbiology
Background:
- Microsporidia are obligate intracellular parasites with over 1000 classified species.
- Historically significant in agriculture (silkworms, bees, fish), now recognized as opportunistic pathogens in humans.
- Encephalitozoon cuniculi and Encephalitozoon intestinalis are key mammalian pathogens.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the immunobiology of microsporidia, focusing on Encephalitozoon species.
- To consolidate current knowledge on host-parasite interactions in microsporidiosis.
- To highlight the significance of microsporidiosis in both veterinary and human health.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of existing studies on microsporidiosis.
- Focus on immunological responses to Encephalitozoon cuniculi infections.
- Synthesis of data on host-parasite interactions.
Main Results:
- Encephalitozoon species are the most frequent agents of microsporidiosis in mammals.
- Immunological studies predominantly utilize Encephalitozoon cuniculi as a model organism.
- Understanding host immunity is crucial for managing microsporidial infections.
Conclusions:
- Microsporidia pose a dual threat: economic losses and opportunistic infections.
- Encephalitozoon species are critical targets for immunological research.
- Further investigation into microsporidial immunobiology is warranted for effective control strategies.