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Subtype analysis of zoonotic pathogen Cryptosporidium skunk genotype
Wenchao Yan1, Kerri Alderisio2, Dawn M Roellig3
1Division of Foodborne, Waterborne, and Environmental Diseases, National Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Infectious Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA 30329, USA; College of Animal Science and Technology, Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang, Henan 471023, China.
Summary
A new subtyping tool for Cryptosporidium skunk genotype was developed. This tool helps characterize its transmission in humans and animals and environmental spread, aiding public health efforts.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Parasitology
- Environmental Microbiology
- Molecular Epidemiology
Background:
- Cryptosporidium skunk genotype is a zoonotic pathogen found in surface waters.
- A lack of subtyping tools hinders understanding of its transmission and environmental fate.
Purpose of the Study:
- To characterize Cryptosporidium skunk genotype using a 60kDa glycoprotein (gp60) gene-based subtyping tool.
- To investigate the transmission pathways and environmental transport of this pathogen.
Main Methods:
- Applied a gp60 subtyping tool, previously developed for Cryptosporidium chipmunk genotype I.
- Analyzed 17 environmental samples from a New York watershed and 5 human/animal specimens.
- Conducted phylogenetic analysis of identified subtypes.
Main Results:
- Identified 14 Cryptosporidium skunk genotype subtypes, with 11 found in the watershed.
- Subtypes clustered into four families (XVIa, XVIb, XVIc, XVId).
- Human subtypes were genetically similar to raccoon, otter, and storm runoff samples, suggesting no host adaptation.
Conclusions:
- The gp60-based subtyping tool is effective for Cryptosporidium skunk genotype.
- Findings suggest potential transmission between animals, humans, and the environment.
- Further research into the gp60 protein characteristics, including the furin cleavage site in subtype XVIb, is warranted.
