Related Experiment Video
Updated: Mar 22, 2026
Author Spotlight: Leptospira DNA Detection in Water for Environmental Analysis and Disease Surveillance
Published on: June 14, 2024
Molecular Characterization of Leptospira spp. in Environmental Samples from North-Eastern Malaysia Revealed a
Muhammad Azharuddin Azali1, Chan Yean Yean2, Azian Harun2
1School of Agriculture Science and Biotechnology, Faculty of Bioresources and Food Industry, Universiti Sultan Zainal Abidin, Tembila Campus, 22200 Besut, Terengganu, Malaysia.
Abstract:
The presence of pathogenic Leptospira spp. in the environment poses threats to human health. The aim of this study was to detect and characterize Leptospira spp. from environmental samples. A total of 144 samples comprised of 72 soil and 72 water samples were collected from markets and recreational areas in a north-eastern state in Malaysia. Samples were cultured on Ellinghausen and McCullough modified by Johnson and Harris media. Leptospires were positive in 22.9% (n = 33) of the isolates. Based on partial sequences of 16S rRNA, a pathogenic leptospire, Leptospira alstonii (n = 1/33), was identified in 3% of the isolates followed by intermediate leptospire (L. wolffii, n = 1/33, and L. licerasiae, n = 7/33) and nonpathogenic leptospire, L. meyeri (n = 22/33) in 24.2% and 66.7%, respectively. This study demonstrates the presence of a clinically significant pathogenic L. alstonii in the environments which could pose health risks to the occupants and visitors.
Insights
Pathogenic Leptospira bacteria were detected in Malaysian environmental samples, including the clinically significant Leptospira alstonii. This finding highlights potential health risks in markets and recreational areas.
Area of Science:
- Environmental microbiology
- Public health microbiology
Background:
- Pathogenic Leptospira species are a significant threat to human health.
- Environmental contamination with Leptospira poses risks in public areas.
Purpose of the Study:
- To detect and characterize Leptospira species in environmental samples from Malaysia.
- To assess the public health implications of environmental Leptospira presence.
Main Methods:
- Collected 144 environmental samples (72 soil, 72 water) from markets and recreational areas.
- Utilized Ellinghausen and McCullough modified by Johnson and Harris media for culturing.
- Identified Leptospira isolates using partial 16S rRNA gene sequencing.
Main Results:
- Leptospires were detected in 22.9% (33/144) of the environmental samples.
- Leptospira alstonii, a pathogenic species, was identified in 3% (1/33) of isolates.
- Intermediate (L. wolffii, L. licerasiae) and nonpathogenic (L. meyeri) leptospires were also identified.
Conclusions:
- The study confirmed the presence of pathogenic Leptospira alstonii in Malaysian environments.
- This finding indicates a potential health risk to humans in contact with these environments.
- Environmental surveillance for Leptospira is crucial for public health protection.
Related Concept Videos
01:30Bacterial Phylum Spirochaetes
01:29Modern Molecular Taxonomy