Comparative molecular epidemiology, subtype distribution, and zoonotic potential of Blastocystis sp. in Equus animals (horses, donkeys, and mules) in northwestern Iran.

Research was conducted to examine the prevalence and types of Blastocystis sp., a microscopic parasite, found in different Equus animals in northwestern Iran through the analysis of 500 fecal samples. The findings indicate a higher likelihood of infection in horses than in donkeys and mules, especially in non-racing/rural horses, younger animals, and those with diarrhoea. Importantly, various subtypes of Blastocystis were detected, suggesting these animals may play a key role in spreading this parasite to humans, other animals, and water bodies.

Objective and Methodology

• The research carried out aimed to understand the epidemiology, subtype distribution, and the potential for zoonotic transmission of the Blastocystis sp. parasite among Equus animals such as horses, donkeys, and mules in the Ardabil Province of Northwestern Iran.
• 500 fecal samples were collected from these animals across six different cities. The samples were evenly distributed amongst horses and donkeys, with only 100 samples from mules.
• A PCR amplification process of the SSU rRNA gene’s barcode region was employed after DNA extraction from the samples to identify the presence of the Blastocystis sp. parasite.

Key Findings

• Blastocystis was found in 7.6% (38/500) of the samples. Horses were found to be more commonly infected – 11.5% (23/200) as opposed to donkeys – 5.5% (11/200) and mules – 4% (4/100).
• Among the horses, non-racing or rural horses had a substantially higher prevalence of infection (20%) than racing horses (3%).
• Higher rates of Blastocystis were observed in animals showing signs of diarrhoea and in younger animals. However, there was no significant difference between infection rates for male and female animals.

Potential Implications

• The study successfully identified eight different subtypes of Blastocystis in the 38 isolates from the tested animals, indicating the potential diversity of the parasite in this region.
• The results suggest that Equus animals may be acting as reservoirs for various subtypes of the parasite which could subsequently be transmitted to humans, other animals, or water bodies.
• These findings are significant as they contribute to the understanding of the spread, prevalence, and possible control measures of the Blastocystis sp. parasite.