Molecular detection of Enterocytozoon bieneusi and identification of a potentially human-pathogenic genotype in milk
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1College of Veterinary Medicine and Bio-Safety Research Institute, Chonbuk National University, Jeonju 561-756, Republic of Korea. johnhlee@chonbuk.ac.kr
Abstract:
Milk specimens from 180 dairy cows were examined for the presence of Enterocytozoon bieneusi, using molecular assays. Fifteen specimens were found to be positive, of which 3 were identical to the human E. bieneusi types, which suggests that some E. bieneusi isolates from milk can infect humans. Overall, dairy cows' milk may play a significant role in the transmission of E. bieneusi infections to humans.
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Dairy cows
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Medicine
- Microbiology
- Public Health
Background:
- Enterocytozoon bieneusi is an opportunistic pathogen that causes gastrointestinal disease in humans and animals.
- Dairy cows are a potential reservoir for E. bieneusi, but the role of milk in transmission is unclear.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the prevalence of E. bieneusi in dairy cow milk.
- To determine if milk-borne E. bieneusi can infect humans.
Main Methods:
- Milk specimens from 180 dairy cows were collected.
- Molecular assays were used to detect E. bieneusi DNA.
- E. bieneusi isolates were compared to human types.
Main Results:
- Fifteen of 180 milk specimens (8.3%) tested positive for E. bieneusi.
- Three of the positive isolates were identical to human E. bieneusi types.
- This suggests zoonotic transmission is possible.
Conclusions:
- Dairy cows' milk can harbor E. bieneusi.
- Milk-borne E. bieneusi may pose a risk of human infection.
- Dairy cows' milk may be a significant source of E. bieneusi transmission to humans.
