Abstract
The apicomplexan intestinal parasites of the genusCryptosporidiumtake a major toll on human and animal health and are frequent causes of waterborne outbreaks. Several species and genotypes can infect humans, includingCryptosporidium viatorum, which, to date, has only been found in humans. Molecular characterization ofCryptosporidiumspp., critical to epidemiological analyses, is commonly based on gp60 gene analysis, which appears to require bespoke species- or group-specific PCR primers due to extensive genetic diversity across the genus. In this study, we amplified, sequenced, and characterized the gp60 gene ofC. viatorumfor the first time. Moreover, we developed and validated a gp60 typing assay for this species and applied it to 27 isolates originating from Asia, Africa, and Central America. A single subtype family, XVa, was identified containing multiple alleles.
Publisher
American Society for Microbiology