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Updated: Apr 17, 2026
Multicolor Flow Cytometry Analyses of Cellular Immune Response in Rhesus Macaques
Published on: April 22, 2010
Identification and morphologic and molecular characterization of Cyclospora macacae n. sp. from rhesus monkeys in
Na Li1, Jianbin Ye, Michael J Arrowood
1State Key Laboratory of Bioreactor Engineering, School of Resources and Environmental Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai, China.
Abstract:
Cyclospora spp. in nonhuman primates are most closely related to Cyclospora cayetanensis, an emerging human pathogen causing outbreaks of cyclosporiasis in North America. Studies thus far indicate the possible existence of host specificity in Cyclospora spp. In this study, 411 fecal specimens from free-range rhesus monkeys (Macaca mulatta) were collected and examined for Cyclospora by sequence analysis of the small subunit rRNA gene. A novel Cyclospora species was identified in 28 (6.8%) specimens and named Cyclospora macacae based on morphologic and molecular characterizations. The oocyst of C. macacae is spherical and measures 8.49 ± 0.55 × 8.49 ± 0.49 microm in diameter. Phylogenetic analysis grouped this species together with the other four Cyclospora species infecting primates, including C. cayetanensis in humans, forming a monophyletic group closely related to avian Eimeria species. In addition, C. cayetanensis was detected in one specimen, although whether rhesus monkeys can serve as a natural reservoir host of C. cayetanensis needs further investigation.
Insights
A new Cyclospora species, Cyclospora macacae, was identified in rhesus monkeys. This finding contributes to understanding Cyclospora evolution and potential transmission to humans.
Area of Science:
- Parasitology
- Molecular Biology
- Primate Health
Background:
- Cyclospora cayetanensis is an emerging human pathogen.
- Cyclospora species in nonhuman primates may exhibit host specificity.
- Understanding primate Cyclospora is crucial for public health.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the presence and diversity of Cyclospora in free-range rhesus monkeys.
- To characterize a novel Cyclospora species found in this primate population.
- To determine the phylogenetic relationship of primate Cyclospora to human and avian species.
Main Methods:
- Collection and analysis of 411 fecal specimens from rhesus monkeys.
- Sequence analysis of the small subunit rRNA gene for Cyclospora identification.
- Morphologic and molecular characterization of identified Cyclospora species.
Main Results:
- A novel Cyclospora species, named Cyclospora macacae, was identified in 6.8% of specimens.
- C. macacae oocysts are spherical, measuring approximately 8.5 micrometers.
- Phylogenetic analysis placed C. macacae with other primate Cyclospora, forming a monophyletic group near avian Eimeria.
- Cyclospora cayetanensis was detected in one specimen.
Conclusions:
- Cyclospora macacae represents a newly identified species in rhesus monkeys.
- Primate-infecting Cyclospora species form a distinct phylogenetic cluster.
- Further research is needed to ascertain if rhesus monkeys act as a reservoir for human-pathogenic C. cayetanensis.
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