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High Genetic Diversity of Histoplasma in the Amazon Basin, 2006-2017

Tani Ly, Marcus de Melo Teixeira, Gaston I Jofre

    Emerging Infectious Diseases
    |May 29, 2025
    PubMed

    Insights

    Researchers discovered a new clade of Histoplasma, the fungus causing histoplasmosis, in the Amazon basin. This finding reveals significant genetic diversity and distinct lineages impacting disease epidemiology.

    Area of Science:

    • Medical Mycology
    • Genomics
    • Population Genetics

    Background:

    • Histoplasmosis is a prevalent global pulmonary fungal infection.
    • The causative agent, Histoplasma, comprises multiple phylogenetic species.
    • Genetic diversity of Histoplasma, particularly in tropical regions, is poorly understood.

    Purpose of the Study:

    • To investigate the genetic diversity of Histoplasma in South America.
    • To identify novel lineages and understand their geographic distribution.
    • To explore potential epidemiological differences among Histoplasma species.

    Main Methods:

    • Genome sequencing of 91 Histoplasma isolates from the Amazon basin.
    • Phylogenomic analysis to determine evolutionary relationships.
    • Population genetic methods to assess genetic variation.

    Main Results:

    • Identification of a previously unknown Histoplasma clade endemic to the Amazon.
    • Discovery of 5 distinct lineages within this clade, classified as phylogenetic species.
    • Largely overlapping, but not entirely congruent, geographic ranges for these lineages.
    • Differences in median patient age and sex ratio among species, suggesting varied disease epidemiology.

    Conclusions:

    • The Amazon basin harbors significant, previously unrecognized Histoplasma genetic diversity.
    • These newly identified lineages represent distinct phylogenetic species with potential epidemiological implications.
    • Further research is needed to fully elucidate the clinical and public health impact of these findings.
    Keywords:
    Amazon basinBrazilCentral AmericaFrench GuianaHistoplasmaSouth Americafungal infectionsfungigenetic diversity

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