Genetic polymorphism and population structure of Echinococcus ortleppi.

Area of Science:

• Parasitology
• Molecular Epidemiology
• Population Genetics

Background:

• The zoonotic cestode Echinococcus ortleppi is transmitted between dogs and cattle globally.
• Its epidemiology and intraspecific variability remain poorly understood.
• Sporadic occurrence worldwide, with notable exceptions in southern Africa and South America.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze the genetic diversity of Echinococcus ortleppi isolates.
• To understand the population genetics and biogeography of this cattle-adapted parasite.
• To establish baseline data for tracing translocation paths.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of 178 E. ortleppi isolates from sub-Saharan Africa, Europe, and South America.
• Sequencing of complete mitochondrial cox1 and nad1 DNA.
• Identification of genetic polymorphism and haplotypes.

Main Results:

• 15 cox1, six nad1, and 20 concatenated gene haplotypes were identified.
• Haplotype distribution correlated with geographical regions, with one common haplotype in eastern and southern Africa.
• Low intraspecific microvariance observed compared to Echinococcus granulosus sensu stricto.
• Sub-populations showed subtle deviation from neutrality and genetic differentiation.

Conclusions:

• This study provides the first insight into the population genetics of Echinococcus ortleppi.
• Genetic diversity is low despite a wide geographic range.
• Data supports biogeographical comparisons and tracing parasite translocation paths.