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Identification of Parasitic Infections by Analyzing Honeybees, Honey, and Pollen Using Droplet Digital RT-PCR
Luigi Jacopo D'Auria1, Andrea Mancusi2, Yolande Thérèse Rose Proroga2
1Centro di Referenza Nazionale per L'analisi e lo Studio delle Correlazioni tra Ambiente, Animali e Uomo, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Mezzogiorno, 80055 Portici, Italy.
Microorganisms
|July 30, 2025
Summary
Honeybees, honey, and pollen can detect harmful protozoan parasites like Toxoplasma gondii. This study validated a dd RT-PCR method for accurate identification, highlighting their role in food safety monitoring.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Science
- Food Safety
- Parasitology
Background:
- Protozoan parasites such as *Toxoplasma gondii*, *Giardia intestinalis*, and *Cryptosporidium* spp. are significant water and food contaminants.
- These pathogens pose severe health risks, particularly to immunocompromised individuals, pregnant women, children, and the elderly.
- Effective detection, treatment, and prevention strategies are crucial for minimizing transmission.
Purpose of the Study:
- To validate the efficacy of Droplet Digital Reverse Transcription Polymerase Chain Reaction (dd RT-PCR) for detecting *T. gondii*, *G. intestinalis*, and *Cryptosporidium* spp.
- To assess the potential of honeybees, honey, and pollen as bioindicators for these protozoan infections.
- To evaluate the suitability of pollen and honey as indicators for food safety assessment.
Main Methods:
- Samples of honeybees (n=16), honey (n=12), and pollen (n=8) were collected from Southern Italy (June-September 2023).
- Droplet Digital Reverse Transcription Polymerase Chain Reaction (dd RT-PCR) was employed for pathogen identification.
- Method validation followed ISO 17468 and ISO 16140 standard guidelines.
Main Results:
- The dd RT-PCR method demonstrated high accuracy and speed in identifying *T. gondii*, *G. intestinalis*, and *Cryptosporidium* species in the tested matrices.
- Honeybees, honey, and pollen were confirmed as effective bioindicators for the presence of these protozoan parasites.
- Pollen and, to a lesser extent, honey were identified as significant indicators for evaluating food safety.
Conclusions:
- Honeybees, honey, and pollen serve as valuable bioindicators for protozoan parasite contamination.
- Pollen and honey quality monitoring is essential for ensuring food safety, considering environmental influences.
- The validated dd RT-PCR method provides a reliable tool for detecting these pathogens in apiary products.
