:: Volume 4, Issue 3 (6-2017) ::
2017, 4(3): 42-47 Back to browse issues page
Detection and enumeration of Cryptosporidium oocysts in environmental water samples by Real-time PCR assay
Mohammad-Reza Mahmoudi , Mojgan Bandepour , Bahram Kazemi , Asad Mirzaei
Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Allied Medical Sciences, Ilam University of Medical Sciences, Ilam, Iran , amirzaeii@yahoo.com
Abstract:   (4285 Views)

Introduction: The protozoan parasite, Cryptosporidium Spp., widely spreads in both raw and drinking waters. It is the causative agents of waterborne diarrhea and gastroenteritis in the world. In the present study, a molecular assay was used for the detection and quantification of Cryptosporidium oocysts in environmental water samples.

Materials and methods: Thirty surface water samples were collected from Rasht City rivers and lagoons during 2009-2010. The samples were analysed for Cryptosporidium oocysts using Real Time PCR method. Samples were filtrated through a 1.2µm pore size cellulose nitrate membrane filter and then purified and quantified by Real-time PCR technique.

Results: Cryptosporidium oocysts were found in 19 of 30 the samples. Oocyst concentration was ranging from 0.007 to 27 oocysts per liter of the examined waters.

Conclusion: The present study showed that the investigated water supplies were contaminated by Cryptosporidium oocyst. This study indicated that in this level of oocysts there is a potential risk of waterborne cryptosporidiosis due to direct or indirect consumption of these waters by humans and animals. Real-time PCR is a technique that provides high sensitivity for detection quantitative purposes.

Keywords: Cryptosporidium spp., Water, Iran, Real-time PCR
Full-Text [PDF 549 kb]   (1487 Downloads)    
Type of Study: Research | Subject: Parasitologiy
Received: 2016/12/14 | Accepted: 2017/01/28 | Published: 2017/03/18



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Volume 4, Issue 3 (6-2017) Back to browse issues page