Natural infection with two genotypes of Cryptosporidium in red squirrels (Sciurus vulgaris) in Italy
Language English Country Czech Republic Media print
Document type Journal Article, Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
PubMed
18666411
Knihovny.cz E-resources
- MeSH
- Cryptosporidium classification cytology genetics isolation & purification MeSH
- Feces parasitology MeSH
- Genotype MeSH
- Cryptosporidiosis epidemiology parasitology veterinary MeSH
- Molecular Sequence Data MeSH
- Mice, Inbred BALB C MeSH
- Mice MeSH
- Rodent Diseases epidemiology parasitology MeSH
- DNA, Protozoan chemistry genetics MeSH
- DNA, Ribosomal chemistry genetics MeSH
- RNA, Ribosomal, 18S genetics MeSH
- Sciuridae parasitology MeSH
- Sequence Analysis, DNA MeSH
- Sex Factors MeSH
- Age Factors MeSH
- Geography MeSH
- Animals MeSH
- Check Tag
- Mice MeSH
- Animals MeSH
- Publication type
- Journal Article MeSH
- Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't MeSH
- Geographicals
- Italy MeSH
- Names of Substances
- DNA, Protozoan MeSH
- DNA, Ribosomal MeSH
- RNA, Ribosomal, 18S MeSH
We investigated the genotypes of Cryptosporidium infecting red squirrels (Sciurus vulgaris L.) in two areas of the Western Alps in Italy. Examination of 141 faecal samples from 70 red squirrels revealed oocysts of Cryptosporidium in 17 animals (24.3%). Based on 18S rRNA gene sequencing, two genotypes of Cryptosporidium species were found: 15 squirrels were positive for the Cryptosporidium ferret genotype and 2 for the Cryptosporidium chipmunk genotype I. The occurrence and intensity of Cryptosporidium infection did not differ between the study areas or sex. More than 85% of the positive animals were adults; however no difference was found between Cryptosporidium infection in the juvenile and adult age groups. Oocysts of the Cryptosporidium ferret genotype measured 5.5 +/- 0.3 x 5.2 +/- 0.2 microm (shape index 1.06) and the Cryptosporidium chipmunk genotype I 5.8 +/- 0.3 x 5.4 +/- 0.3 microm (shape index 1.07). Neonatal and adult CD1 and BABL/c mice inoculated with 1 x 10(3) fresh oocysts of both genotypes did not produce detectable infection.
GENBANK
EU250844
