Molecular characterization of Cryptosporidium spp. from foals in Italy
Monica Caffara1, Silvia Piva, Federica Pallaver
1Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum, Bologna University, Via Tolara di Sopra 50, 40064 Ozzano Emilia (BO), Italy.
Abstract:
Fourteen Cryptosporidium isolates from hospitalized foals were genotyped and subtyped using PCR-RFLP analysis of the 18S rDNA. Cryptosporidium parvum and Cryptosporidium horse genotype were detected in 3 and 11 stool specimens, respectively. Sequences of the gp60 gene of Cryptosporidium horse genotype allowed identification of the subtype family VIaA15G4, defining a novel microsatellite pattern within horse subtype VIa. Cryptosporidium horse genotype has only been described occasionally worldwide and this is the first time it has been identified in foals from Italy.
Insights
This study identified Cryptosporidium horse genotype in hospitalized foals in Italy, a novel finding for the region. The research also detailed a new subtype family, VIaA15G4, within the Cryptosporidium horse genotype.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Parasitology
- Molecular Biology
- Equine Health
Background:
- Cryptosporidium is a significant cause of diarrhea in foals.
- Cryptosporidium horse genotype is rarely reported globally.
- Previous studies have not identified this genotype in Italian foals.
Purpose of the Study:
- To genotype and subtype Cryptosporidium isolates from hospitalized foals in Italy.
- To investigate the prevalence of different Cryptosporidium species and genotypes in foals.
- To characterize novel subtypes of Cryptosporidium horse genotype.
Main Methods:
- Genotyping and subtyping of 14 Cryptosporidium isolates using PCR-RFLP analysis of the 18S rDNA gene.
- Sequencing of the gp60 gene for detailed subtype identification.
- Analysis of microsatellite patterns.
Main Results:
- Cryptosporidium parvum was detected in 3 isolates.
- Cryptosporidium horse genotype was identified in 11 isolates.
- The subtype family VIaA15G4 was identified within the Cryptosporidium horse genotype, revealing a novel microsatellite pattern.
Conclusions:
- This is the first report of Cryptosporidium horse genotype in foals from Italy.
- The findings highlight the presence of a specific subtype family (VIaA15G4) within the Cryptosporidium horse genotype.
- Further research is needed to understand the epidemiology and clinical significance of this genotype in foals.
