Journal of Kerman University of Medical Sciences

Investigating the Genetic Landscape of Hymenolepis nana in Zabol City: A Study of Mitochondrial DNA Using PCR

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

Abdulrahman Sarani 1
Omid Tadjrobehkar 2
Mansour Dabirzadeh 1

1 Department of Parasitology, Medical Faculty, Zabol University of Medical Sciences, Zabol, Iran

2 Bacteriology & Virology Department, Afzalipour School of Medicine, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran

https://doi.org/10.34172/jkmu.4150
Abstract
 Background: Hymenolepis nana, the dwarf tapeworm, is the most prevalent human cestode, particularly affecting children in developing countries with poor sanitation. This study used mitochondrial DNA sequencing techniques to investigate the molecular characteristics and genetic diversity of H. nana isolates from human fecal samples in Zabol, Iran.
Methods: In this descriptive cross-sectional study, 374 stool samples were examined using microscopy for H. nana infection. DNA was extracted from microscopically positive samples, and the rrnS-mtDNA(rrnS) gene was amplified using specific primers. PCR products were sequenced and compared to reference sequences in GenBank. Phylogenetic analysis was performed to assess genetic relationships among isolates.
Results: The prevalence of H. nana infection was 3.74% (95% CI: 2.07-6.19%). Seven out of 14 positive samples were successfully sequenced. The rrnS-mtDNA sequences from Zabol isolates showed 99% identity to the reference strain. Phylogenetic analysis revealed high similarity ( > 98%) with H. nana sequences from diverse geographical regions. However, distinct nucleotide polymorphisms were observed, indicating regional genetic variations.
Conclusion: This study provides novel insights into the genetic diversity of H. nana in southeast Iran. The observed variations in the mitochondrial genome suggest potential adaptations to local environments or hosts. These findings contribute to our understanding of H. nana epidemiology and may inform the development of targeted molecular diagnostics and control strategies for this widespread cestodiasis.

Highlights

Abdulrahman Sarani (Google Scholar) (PubMed)

Mansour Dabirzadeh (Google Scholar) (PubMed)

Keywords

Hymenolepis nana
Polymerase Chain Reaction
Genetic Variation
Iran
Subjects
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Journal of Kerman University of Medical Sciences
Volume 32
Pages 1-8

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