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Potentially Pathogenic Free-Living Amoebae Isolated from Soil Samples from Warsaw Parks and Squares

Edyta Beata Hendiger-Rizo1, Magdalena Chmielewska-Jeznach1, Katarzyna Poreda1

  • 1Parasitology Laboratory, Department of Medical Biology, Medical University of Warsaw, Litewska 14/16, 00-575 Warsaw, Poland.

Pathogens (Basel, Switzerland)
|October 25, 2024
PubMed

Insights

Free-living amoebae (FLA) were detected in Warsaw soil, with Acanthamoeba spp. being the most common. This study highlights the need for FLA detection guidelines near human habitats.

Area of Science:

  • Environmental microbiology
  • Parasitology
  • Molecular biology

Background:

  • Free-living amoebae (FLA) are ubiquitous microorganisms with varying pathogenic potentials.
  • FLA infections pose significant health risks, ranging from fatal encephalitis to keratitis and cutaneous infections.
  • Standardized guidelines for detecting FLA in human-populated environments are lacking.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the presence and diversity of FLA in soil samples from public spaces in Warsaw.
  • To genotype isolated FLA and assess their pathogenic potential.
  • To establish the first report on FLA in the Warsaw environment.

Main Methods:

  • Collection of 23 soil samples from Warsaw parks and squares.
  • Isolation of FLA using non-nutrient agar (NNA) plates at 26°C.
  • Identification and genotyping via PCR, with thermophilicity tests for pathogenic potential assessment.

Main Results:

  • 18 out of 23 samples (78.2%) yielded FLA.
  • Acanthamoeba spp. was the predominant genus (13/18 samples), with genotype T4 being most frequent.
  • Other isolated genera included Platyamoeba placida, Stenamoeba berchidia, and Allovahlkampfia sp.

Conclusions:

  • FLA, including potentially pathogenic species, are present in Warsaw's urban soil.
  • This study provides crucial baseline data on FLA in the region.
  • Emphasizes the need for further research and development of detection strategies for FLA in public areas.
Keywords:
AcanthamoebaT4 genotypeWarsawfree-living amoebaesoil

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