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Toxocara canis-induced changes in host intestinal microbial communities
Soben Sieng1,2, Ping Chen1,2, Na Wang1,2
1Laboratory of Tropical Veterinary Medicine and Vector Biology, School of Life and Health Sciences, Hainan University, Haikou, 570228, Hainan, People's Republic of China.
Parasites & Vectors
|December 20, 2023
Summary
Toxocara canis infection significantly reduces the diversity of a dog's gut bacteria, altering its microbial composition. This parasite impacts the intestinal flora, potentially aiding its survival and offering new targets for anthelmintic drug development.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Parasitology
- Microbiome Research
- Canine Health
Background:
- Toxocara canis, a common roundworm, infects dogs, causing gastrointestinal pathology.
- The canine gut harbors a complex bacterial community influencing host physiology and immunity.
- Parasitic infections inevitably involve interactions between the pathogen and host's intestinal flora.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the impact of Toxocara canis infection on the composition and diversity of the canine intestinal microbiota.
- To understand the relationship between T. canis and the host's gut bacterial community.
Main Methods:
- High-throughput sequencing of the 16S ribosomal RNA gene was employed.
- Comprehensive bioinformatics analyses were conducted to assess microbial changes.
- Alpha- and beta-diversity analyses were performed to evaluate microbial abundance, diversity, and community structure.
Main Results:
- Toxocara canis infection led to a significant decrease in the abundance and diversity of the host's intestinal flora.
- The gut microbiota of infected dogs showed similarities to the bacterial community associated with T. canis.
- An increased ratio of Firmicutes to Bacteroidetes (F/B ratio) was observed post-infection.
- Proportions of pathogenic bacteria, including Clostridium sensu stricto and Staphylococcus, increased.
Conclusions:
- Toxocara canis infection significantly alters the composition and diversity of the canine intestinal flora.
- These findings provide insights into the mechanisms of T. canis invasion and survival.
- The study offers a new foundation for developing novel anthelmintic therapies.
