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Updated: Jul 15, 2026
12:09
Protocol for Human Blastoids Modeling Blastocyst Development and Implantation
Published on: August 10, 2022
[Is Blastocystis hominis an opportunist agent?]
Funda Doğruman Al1, Murat Hökelek
1Gazi Universitesi Tip Fakültesi, Tibbi Mikrobiyoloji Anabilim Dali, Ankara, Turkey. alfunda@gazi.edu.tr
Turkiye Parazitolojii Dergisi
|May 2, 2007
Summary
Blastocystis hominis is a common, globally prevalent parasite with unresolved taxonomy and pathogenicity. Its diverse forms and genetic variations suggest multiple species, impacting human and animal health with uncertain significance.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Parasitology
- Molecular Biology
Context:
- Blastocystis hominis is a globally prevalent intestinal parasite.
- Its taxonomy, pathogenicity, and clinical significance remain poorly understood.
- Morphological and genetic diversity complicates its classification.
Purpose:
- To review current knowledge on Blastocystis hominis.
- To highlight unresolved issues regarding its taxonomy and pathogenicity.
- To discuss its prevalence, morphology, and potential impact.
Summary:
- Blastocystis hominis exhibits significant genetic and morphological variability, with SSUrRNA and EF1-alpha gene analyses yielding conflicting phylogenetic placements.
- Three predominant forms (vacuolar, granular, ameboid) exist in culture, with the vacuolated form most common in stool.
- Prevalence varies globally, higher in developing countries, and it infects various animals, but its pathogenic role in humans is uncertain.
Impact:
- Clarifies the complex nature of Blastocystis hominis, emphasizing the need for further research.
- Provides a foundation for future studies on its classification and clinical relevance.
- Highlights the global health implications of this common, yet enigmatic, parasite.
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