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Updated: Jan 1, 2026
Author Spotlight: Studying Behavior of Acanthamoeba to Develop Targeted Strategies for Preventing Acanthamoeba Keratitis
Published on: September 20, 2024
Isolation and Genotyping of Acanthamoeba spp. as Neglected Parasites in North of Iran
Azar Shokri1, Shahabeddin Sarvi2, Ahmad Daryani2
1Molecular and Cell Biology Research Center, Sari Medical School, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Mazandaran Province, 48175-1683, Iran.
Abstract:
Acanthamoeba, a free-living amoeba, is widely distributed in the environment, water sources, soil, dust, and air. It can cause keratitis in contact lens wearers with poor hygiene and also fatal granulomatous amebic encephalitis (GAE) in immunocompromised hosts. The aim of this study was to gain some insights into the distribution and genotypes of the potentially pathogenic species of Acanthamoeba present in water sources in north of Iran. Total 43 Acanthamoeba species were isolated from 77 water samples taken from different water sources within the Mazandaran province in Northern Iran (Sari city and suburbs). Isolates were identified based on cyst and trophozoite morphological characteristics as well genetics. PCR fragments corresponding to the small-subunit 18S rRNA gene were sequenced for 20 of 43 positive isolates. The results revealed that 83.3% of sequenced isolates belonged to the T4 genotype and the rest belonged to the T2 genotype. Our results indicated that Acanthamoeba is widely distributed in Sari city. As the incidence in Iran of amoebic keratitis has increased in recent years, the exact estimation of the prevalence of this amoeba and its predominant genotype may play a crucial role in prevention of the disease. Sari city has several rivers, seashores, and natural recreational amenities, which attract visitors during the year. This is the first report of Acanthamoeba genotypes from water sources in Sari city, Mazandaran province of Iran, and the results suggest that more attention is needed to protect the visiting population and immunocompromised individuals.
Insights
Acanthamoeba, a pathogen causing serious eye and brain infections, is widespread in water sources in Sari city, Iran. The T4 genotype, linked to disease, is predominant, highlighting a public health risk.
Area of Science:
- Environmental microbiology
- Parasitology
- Molecular biology
Background:
- Acanthamoeba is a ubiquitous protozoan found in diverse environments.
- It poses significant health risks, causing keratitis and granulomatous amebic encephalitis (GAE).
- Understanding Acanthamoeba distribution and genotypes is crucial for public health, especially in regions with increasing incidence of amoebic keratitis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the distribution and genotypes of potentially pathogenic Acanthamoeba species in water sources in Northern Iran.
- To provide insights into the prevalence of specific Acanthamoeba genotypes in Sari city.
Main Methods:
- Isolation of Acanthamoeba from 77 water samples collected in Mazandaran province, Iran.
- Identification of isolates using cyst and trophozoite morphology.
- Molecular identification and genotyping of 20 isolates by sequencing PCR fragments of the small-subunit 18S rRNA gene.
Main Results:
- Acanthamoeba was widely distributed in water sources in Sari city.
- Of the 20 sequenced isolates, 83.3% belonged to the T4 genotype, and 16.7% belonged to the T2 genotype.
- This study is the first to report Acanthamoeba genotypes from water sources in Sari city.
Conclusions:
- Acanthamoeba, particularly the T4 genotype, is prevalent in water sources in Sari city, Iran.
- The findings underscore a potential public health concern for the local population and visitors.
- Increased attention to environmental monitoring and public awareness is recommended to prevent Acanthamoeba-related infections.
