Review
Parasitology
Una M. Ryan, Yaoyu Feng, Ronald Fayer, Lihua Xiao
Summary: Protozoan parasites Cryptosporidium and Giardia are significant causes of diarrhoea worldwide, with numerous named species and genotypes recognized. Zoonotic transmission plays an important role in the epidemiology, and the development of sequencing tools provides evidence for this. Comparative whole genome sequencing offers key information on genetic mechanisms and enables future One Health management.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL FOR PARASITOLOGY
(2021)
Article
Parasitology
Jianbo Huang, Ming Chen, Yongli He, Haoyu Chen, Mingming Huang, Na Li, Una Ryan, Martin Kvac, Yaoyu Feng, Lihua Xiao, Yaqiong Guo
Summary: This study conducted biological and whole genome sequence analyses of a Cryptosporidium isolates from hedgehogs and proposed it as a new Cryptosporidium species. The new species, named Cryptosporidium equi, showed genetic distinctiveness and had a wide host range. This is the first use of whole genome sequence data in delineating new Cryptosporidium species.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL FOR PARASITOLOGY
(2023)
Article
Immunology
Ralf Krumkamp, Cassandra Aldrich, Oumou Maiga-Ascofare, Joyce Mbwana, Njari Rakotozandrindrainy, Steffen Borrmann, Simone M. Caccio, Raphael Rakotozandrindrainy, Ayola Akim Adegnika, John P. A. Lusingu, John Amuasi, Juergen May, Daniel Eibach
Summary: Cryptosporidiosis in rural sub-Saharan Africa is characterized by infection clusters among human contacts, to which zoonotic transmission appears to contribute only marginally.
CLINICAL INFECTIOUS DISEASES
(2021)
Article
Infectious Diseases
Zhenjie Zhang, Dongle Su, Xinan Meng, Ruobing Liang, Weijian Wang, Na Li, Yaqiong Guo, Aizhen Guo, Shujing Li, Zengyuan Zhao, Lihua Xiao, Yaoyu Feng
Summary: The study showed a significantly higher infection rate of Cryptosporidium parvum during the outbreak, particularly associated with watery diarrhea in neonatal calves at a large cattle farm in Hebei Province, China. The subtype identified in the C. parvum isolates was IIdA20G1, highlighting the importance of monitoring and controlling the spread of this pathogen in China.
TRANSBOUNDARY AND EMERGING DISEASES
(2022)
Article
Microbiology
Marianne Lebbad, Jadwiga Winiecka-Krusnell, Christen Rune Stensvold, Jessica Beser
Summary: This study aimed to expand the knowledge on human cryptosporidiosis in Sweden by studying Cryptosporidium-positive fecal samples collected from patients infected in Sweden and abroad between 2013-2014. The research revealed a large diversity of species and subtypes, with zoonotic C. parvum subtypes dominating in both local and travel-related cases, while infections by non-hominis and non-parvum species were common in both settings.
Article
Parasitology
Kangli Feng, Na Li, Yujin Huang, Chengyi Chen, Luxing Wen, Weijian Wang, Una M. Ryan, Lihua Xiao, Yaoyu Feng, Yaqiong Guo
Summary: Cryptosporidium bovis and Cryptosporidium ryanae are common species causing cryptosporidiosis in cattle. The infection patterns and shedding intensity of these two species are different between areas with and without Cryptosporidium parvum.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL FOR PARASITOLOGY
(2023)
Article
Parasitology
Chad Schou, Kyriacos Hasapis, Panagiotis Karanis
Summary: In this study, the presence of various Cryptosporidium species in faecal samples of sheep, goats, geckos, and stellagamas in Cyprus was investigated using PCR and sequencing. Different species were identified, with subtyping successfully achieved.
PARASITOLOGY RESEARCH
(2022)
Article
Environmental Sciences
Helen Bagnall, Rachel M. Chalmers, Michelle Henderson, Stewart Sorrell, Guy Robinson, Kristin Elwin, Gayle Dolan
Summary: In October 2016, Public Health England was notified of four cases of cryptosporidiosis among users of two swimming pools. A total of twenty-two cases were identified, with eleven primary cases and eleven secondary cases. A complex outbreak involving two swimming pools with different transmission pathways was uncovered through the investigation integrating epidemiology and microbiology.
Review
Microbiology
Stefania Pane, Lorenza Putignani
Summary: This article provides an overview of the current state of human cryptosporidiosis, including risk factors, advances in drug treatment and epidemiology, and emphasizes the importance of establishing a government system for reporting diagnosed cases.
Article
Veterinary Sciences
Francisco Carlos Rodrigues de Oliveira, Samira Salim Mello Gallo, Taynara Kerolayne Santos Elizeu, Nicole Brand Ederli
Summary: Screening of fecal samples from saffron finches in a commercial establishment identified the potential host role of these birds for C. andersoni, with this being the first reported occurrence in a captive bird. Additionally, parasitism by C. galli was observed, marking the third reported case in Sicalis flaveola.
BMC VETERINARY RESEARCH
(2022)
Review
Agriculture, Dairy & Animal Science
Una Ryan, Alireza Zahedi, Yaoyu Feng, Lihua Xiao
Summary: Cryptosporidium is a parasite that infects both humans and animals, with DNA-based detection and genetic typing methods being crucial for identifying and differentiating between species. Understanding zoonotic transmission is key for controlling the spread of this parasite, and molecular tools have greatly enhanced our knowledge of which Cryptosporidium species and genotypes can infect humans. Further studies and the widespread application of genetic tools are needed to advance our understanding of the zoonotic transmission and develop more effective control measures.
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Miriam Campos-Ruiz, Clara Flamarich, Anabel Fernandez-Navarro, Silvia Roura, Laura Martin, Pablo Pillado, Pere-Joan Cardona, Gema Fernandez-Rivas
Summary: Cryptosporidium spp. is a commonly circulating parasite in Europe, but is not routinely examined despite its growing trend in cases. Accurate diagnosis is crucial for preventing the spread of the illness.
Article
Public, Environmental & Occupational Health
Yanchuan Wang, Baihui Zhang, Jingping Li, Songling Yu, Nan Zhang, Shuting Liu, Yuanyuan Zhang, Jian Li, Ning Ma, Yanan Cai, Quan Zhao
Summary: Parasitic diarrheal disease is a major cause of morbidity and mortality in developing countries. Calves in northeastern China are highly susceptible to Cryptosporidium spp. infection, with C. parvum being the predominant species. A real-time quantitative PCR method was established for more accurate detection of cryptosporidiosis.
VECTOR-BORNE AND ZOONOTIC DISEASES
(2021)
Article
Microbiology
Jiayu Li, Fuxian Yang, Ruobing Liang, Sheng Guo, Yaqiong Guo, Na Li, Yaoyu Feng, Lihua Xiao
Summary: The study investigated the genetic diversity of C. felis in cats in China and found 20 C. felis isolates with high genetic diversity, including 13 novel subtypes and 2 known subtypes of the XIXa subtype family. Some subtypes were shared between humans and cats, suggesting potential cross-species transmission of C. felis.
Article
Multidisciplinary Sciences
Nickolas Stabellini, Apoorva Krishna Chandar, Amitabh Chak, Amie J. Barda, Mantas Dmukauskas, Kristin Waite, Jill S. Barnholtz-Sloan
Summary: Esophageal cancer is the seventh most common type of cancer worldwide and the sixth leading cause of cancer-related death. The incidence of esophageal cancer is higher in males, but there is limited data on prognosis and survival. This study aimed to analyze the differences between sexes and other factors in patients with primary esophageal cancer. The analysis of data from 2005 to 2020 showed differences between males and females in age at diagnosis, histology, smoking status, and prescriptions of NSAIDs. However, there was no significant difference in survival between males and females.
SCIENTIFIC REPORTS
(2022)
Article
Microbiology
Wanyi Huang, Yaqiong Guo, Colleen Lysen, Yuanfei Wang, Kevin Tang, Matthew H. Seabolt, Fengkun Yang, Elizabeth Cebelinski, Olga Gonzalez-Moreno, Tianyi Hou, Chengyi Chen, Ming Chen, Muchun Wan, Na Li, Michele C. Hlavsa, Dawn M. Roellig, Yaoyu Feng, Lihua Xiao
Summary: The newly emerged and hyper transmissible subtype IfA12G1R5 of Cryptosporidium hominis is now dominant in the United States. Comparative analysis of newly sequenced and published C. hominis genomes reveals that this subtype has multiple ancestral origins and has recombined with different subtypes. Selective sweeps in invasion-associated genes have accompanied its emergence, offering insights into the emergence and evolution of hyper-transmissible pathogens.
CELL HOST & MICROBE
(2023)
Article
Parasitology
Mona I. Ali, Wegdan M. Abd El Wahab, Ahmed Hassan, Una Ryan, Lihua Xiao, Waleed M. Arafa, Doaa A. Hamdy
Summary: This study aimed to assess the occurrence and genetic characteristics of Cryptosporidium spp. in patients with gastrointestinal cancer in Egypt. The study found that only 7% of GI cancer patients were positive for Cryptosporidium, and male sex and younger age were major risk factors for infection.
PARASITOLOGY RESEARCH
(2023)
Article
Parasitology
Jianbo Huang, Ming Chen, Yongli He, Haoyu Chen, Mingming Huang, Na Li, Una Ryan, Martin Kvac, Yaoyu Feng, Lihua Xiao, Yaqiong Guo
Summary: This study conducted biological and whole genome sequence analyses of a Cryptosporidium isolates from hedgehogs and proposed it as a new Cryptosporidium species. The new species, named Cryptosporidium equi, showed genetic distinctiveness and had a wide host range. This is the first use of whole genome sequence data in delineating new Cryptosporidium species.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL FOR PARASITOLOGY
(2023)
Article
Parasitology
Kangli Feng, Na Li, Yujin Huang, Chengyi Chen, Luxing Wen, Weijian Wang, Una M. Ryan, Lihua Xiao, Yaoyu Feng, Yaqiong Guo
Summary: Cryptosporidium bovis and Cryptosporidium ryanae are common species causing cryptosporidiosis in cattle. The infection patterns and shedding intensity of these two species are different between areas with and without Cryptosporidium parvum.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL FOR PARASITOLOGY
(2023)
Editorial Material
Public, Environmental & Occupational Health
Tine Graakjaer Larsen, Jonas Kahler, Marianne Lebbad, Huma Aftab, Luise Mueller, Steen Ethelberg, Lihua Xiao, Christen Rune Stensvold
TRAVEL MEDICINE AND INFECTIOUS DISEASE
(2023)
Article
Microbiology
Xianghui Liang, Xiaoyuan Chen, Junqiong Zhai, Xiaobing Li, Xu Zhang, Zhipeng Zhang, Ping Zhang, Xiao Wang, Xinyuan Cui, Hai Wang, Niu Zhou, Zu-Jin Chen, Renwei Su, Fuqing Zhou, Edward C. Holmes, David M. Irwin, Rui-Ai Chen, Qian He, Ya-Jiang Wu, Chen Wang, Xue-Qing Du, Shi-Ming Peng, Wei-Jun Xie, Fen Shan, Wan-Ping Li, Jun-Wei Dai, Xuejuan Shen, Yaoyu Feng, Lihua Xiao, Wu Chen, Yongyi Shen
Summary: Using CT scans, histological examination, blood gas tests, and transcriptome analysis, this study reveals the pathogenicity and tissue tropism of SARSr-CoV-2 in Malayan pangolins. The virus infects multiple organs, with the lungs being the major target. The study also provides initial evidence for vertical transmission of the virus in pangolin fetuses.
Article
Public, Environmental & Occupational Health
Xinan Meng, Wenlun Chu, Yongping Tang, Weijian Wang, Yuxin Chen, Na Li, Yaoyu Feng, Lihua Xiao, Yaqiong Guo
Summary: This study investigated the prevalence and zoonotic potential of Cryptosporidium spp., Enterocytozoon bieneusi, and Giardia duodenalis in farmed and pet African pygmy hedgehogs in southern China. The results showed that Cryptosporidium spp. and E. bieneusi were common in these hedgehogs, indicating a potential risk for zoonotic transmission. The detection rates were influenced by living conditions and hygiene practices. Preventive measures should be taken to reduce the risk of transmission and environmental contamination.
Article
Pharmacology & Pharmacy
Mengling Li, Cen Chen, Xialin Wang, Pengju Guo, Helong Feng, Xueqi Zhang, Wanpo Zhang, Changqin Gu, Jingen Zhu, Guoyuan Wen, Yaoyu Feng, Lihua Xiao, Guiqing Peng, Venigalla B. Rao, Pan Tao
Summary: In this study, the researchers showed that nanoparticle vaccines decorated with antigens can be rapidly developed using CRISPR engineering of T4 bacteriophage. These vaccines, when administered intranasally, can persist in the lungs and be taken up and presented by antigen-presenting cells. The vaccines induce specific secretory IgA antibodies, as well as different types of CD4+ T cells, providing protection against diverse influenza viruses.
ANTIVIRAL RESEARCH
(2023)
Article
Parasitology
Lenka Tumova, Jana Jezkova, Jitka Prediger, Nikola Holubova, Bohumil Sak, Roman Konecny, Dana Kvetonova, Lenka Hlaskova, Michael Rost, John McEvoy, Lihua Xiao, Monica Santin, Martin Kvac
Summary: This study investigated the biology and genetic variability of different isolates of Cryptosporidium chipmunk genotype I. The results showed that chipmunk genotype I is genetically distinct from other Cryptosporidium species. Experimental infections also revealed the fatal infection risk it poses to native European squirrel species. Accordingly, the parasite previously known as Cryptosporidium chipmunk genotype I is proposed to be named Cryptosporidium mortiferum n. sp.
PARASITES & VECTORS
(2023)
Article
Parasitology
Samantha Gunasekera, Peta L. Clode, Brendon King, Paul Monis, Benjamin Thierry, Jillian M. Carr, Abha Chopra, Mark Watson, Mark O'Dea, Nawal Hijjawi, Una Ryan
Summary: This study examines and compares the growth and development of different species and subtypes of Cryptosporidium in vitro. The findings reveal that sexual development is accelerated in C. hominis compared to C. parvum, while asexual development is similar. This provides new insights into the sexual development of these two species.
PARASITOLOGY RESEARCH
(2023)
Article
Microbiology
Catia Salamandane, Maria Luisa Lobo, Sonia Afonso, Lihua Xiao, Olga Matos
Summary: This study assessed the genetic pattern of Giardia duodenalis and Enterocytozoon bieneusi in vegetables and fruits sold in Maputo markets, Mozambique, and determined their public health importance. The results showed that 2.8% and 1.3% of the monitored samples were positive for G. duodenalis and E. bieneusi, respectively. Additionally, these microorganisms were found and characterized for the first time in horticultural products in Maputo markets.
FRONTIERS IN MICROBIOLOGY
(2023)
Article
Biotechnology & Applied Microbiology
Qinghong Guo, Xuefang Guo, Nuo Ji, Bang Shen, Xinhua Zhong, Lihua Xiao, Yaoyu Feng, Ningbo Xia
Summary: Toxoplasma gondii is a widespread pathogen that infects various warm-blooded animals, including humans, leading to significant socioeconomic and healthcare burdens. Despite the lack of an ideal toxoplasmosis vaccine, targeting key pathways in the parasite's metabolism shows promise for new antiparasitic strategies.
MICROBIAL BIOTECHNOLOGY
(2023)
Article
Genetics & Heredity
Jiayu Li, Na Li, Dawn M. Roellig, Wentao Zhao, Yaqiong Guo, Yaoyu Feng, Lihua Xiao
Summary: The genome of Cryptosporidium canis has a higher GC content and this is mainly found in subtelomeric regions. Genes with balanced GC content encode Cryptosporidium-specific proteins that participate in host-parasite interactions. Natural selection plays a significant role in the evolution of codon usage in GC-balanced C. canis. The genome of the fox-derived isolate differs more from the mink and dog-derived isolates, suggesting the presence of a new Cryptosporidium species.
MICROBIAL GENOMICS
(2023)
Article
Veterinary Sciences
Ehab Kotb Elmahallawy, Ahmed Gareh, Akram Abu-Okail, Pamela C. Koster, Alejandro Dashti, Jamal Asseri, Asmaa Aboelabbas Gouda, Murad A. Mubaraki, Sara Abdel-Aal Mohamed, Yasser M. Mohamed, Ehssan Ahmed Hassan, Mohamed Elgendy, Carolina Hernandez-Castro, Begona Bailo, David Gonzalez-Barrio, Lihua Xiao, David Carmena
Summary: This study investigated the occurrence, genetic diversity, and zoonotic potential of common diarrhea-causing enteric protist parasites in household dogs and cats in Egypt. The results showed that the prevalence rates of Cryptosporidium spp. and Giardia duodenalis were high in dogs and cats in Egypt, posing a potential risk to public health.
FRONTIERS IN VETERINARY SCIENCE
(2023)
Article
Veterinary Sciences
Marta Mateo, Ana Montoya, Begona Bailo, Pamela C. Koster, Alejandro Dashti, Carolina Hernandez-Castro, Jose M. Saugar, Pablo Matas, Lihua Xiao, David Carmena
Summary: The study investigated the occurrence, risk factors, genetic variability, and zoonotic potential of intestinal parasites in dogs and cats attended in a clinical veterinary setting in Spain. The results showed that well-cared dogs and cats can carry zoonotic enteric protozoan parasites of public health relevance. Proper hygiene practices and routine veterinary treatment are essential to prevent zoonotic infections.
VETERINARY MEDICINE AND SCIENCE
(2023)