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The course of infection caused by Encephalitozoon cuniculi genotype III in immunocompetent and immunodeficient mice
Michaela Kotková1, Bohumil Sak2, Lenka Hlásková2
1Institute of Parasitology, Biology Centre, Czech Academy of Sciences, České Budějovice, Czech Republic; Faculty of Agriculture, University of South Bohemia in České Budějovice, České Budějovice, Czech Republic.
Abstract:
Encephalitozoon cuniculi is probably the most common microsporidia which infects a wide range of vertebrates, including human. So far, four genotypes of this parasite have been identified based on the rRNA internal transcribed spacer variations. The course of infection caused by E. cuniculi III had very massive onset in immunocompetent host characterized by the presence of this parasite in all organs and tissues within one week after peroral infection. Encephalitozoonosis caused by E. cuniculi III had very progressive spreading into all organs within first week post inoculation in immunocompromised SCID mice and led to the death of the host. The experimental treatment with albendazole of immunocompetent BALB/c mice infected with E. cuniculi III have shown very weak effect. Our findings clearly showed that the different course of infection and response to treatment depends not only on the immunological status of the host, but also on the genotype of microsporidia. It could be very important especially for individuals under chemotherapy and transplant recipients of organs originating from infected donors.
Insights
Encephalitozoon cuniculi genotype III causes severe infections in both healthy and immunocompromised hosts. Treatment with albendazole showed limited effectiveness, highlighting the importance of host immunity and parasite genotype in disease progression.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Parasitology
- Immunology
- Microbiology
Background:
- Encephalitozoon cuniculi is a common microsporidian parasite infecting diverse vertebrates, including humans.
- Four genotypes of E. cuniculi have been identified based on rRNA internal transcribed spacer variations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the course of infection and treatment response of Encephalitozoon cuniculi genotype III in different host models.
- To understand the influence of host immunological status and parasite genotype on encephalitozoonosis.
Main Methods:
- Experimental infection of immunocompetent BALB/c mice and immunocompromised SCID mice with E. cuniculi III.
- Assessment of parasite dissemination in organs and tissues.
- Evaluation of the therapeutic effect of albendazole.
Main Results:
- E. cuniculi III caused rapid and widespread infection in all organs within one week in immunocompetent hosts.
- In immunocompromised SCID mice, infection with E. cuniculi III led to rapid dissemination and host death.
- Experimental treatment with albendazole demonstrated minimal efficacy in immunocompetent mice.
Conclusions:
- The course of E. cuniculi infection and response to albendazole are significantly influenced by both the host's immunological status and the parasite's genotype.
- Findings are critical for managing infections in immunocompromised individuals, such as chemotherapy patients and organ transplant recipients.
