Variation in haplotypes in single cysts of assemblages C and D, but not of assemblage E of Giardia duodenalis.

Background: Giardia duodenalis, a single-celled intestinal parasite, is divided into eight assemblages (A-H), with differences in host specificity. Giardia duodenalis reproduces asexually and cycles between the binucleated trophozoite (4 N) and the infectious cyst with four nuclei (16 N). Interaction between the nuclei is limited.

Monitoring of ticks and their pathogens from companion animals obtained by the "tekenscanner" application in The Netherlands.

Ticks are vectors for many pathogens of veterinary and medical interest. In order to monitor ticks and tick-borne pathogens, the "Tekenscanner" (Dutch for Tick scanner), a citizen science project, was launched in The Netherlands. It is a smartphone application for pet-owners to get ticks from their dog or cat, identified and checked for pathogens for free.

Giardia duodenalis multi-locus genotypes in dogs with different levels of synanthropism and clinical signs.

Background: In dogs, infections with Giardia duodenalis are mainly caused by assemblages C and D, but also by the potentially zoonotic assemblages A and B. The aims of this study were to assess differences in assemblages (i) between dogs living mainly in close proximity to humans (synanthropic dogs) versus dogs living mainly among other dogs, (ii) between samples of dogs with or without loose stool, and (iii) related to the amount of cysts shedding.

Methods: One hundred eighty-nine qPCR Giardia positive fecal samples of dogs originating from four groups (household, sheltered, hunting, and dogs for which a veterinarian sent a fecal sample to a diagnostic laboratory) were used for genotyping.

Whole-genome sequencing of dog-specific assemblages C and D of from single and pooled cysts indicates host-associated genes.

(syn. or ) infSAects over 280 million people each year and numerous animals. can be subdivided into eight assemblages with different host specificity.

Host factors associated with Giardia duodenalis infection in dogs across multiple diagnostic tests.

Background: The aim of this study was to assess potential associations between Giardia duodenalis infection in dogs, as determined by three diagnostic tests, and dog's group of origin, fecal consistency, age, sex, neuter status, and co-infections with other gastrointestinal parasites.

Methods: Fecal samples from 1291 dogs from four groups (household, shelter, hunting and clinical dogs) were tested with qPCR, rapid enzyme immunochromatographic assay (IDEXX SNAP Giardia), and direct immunofluorescence (DFA, Merifluor) for presence of G. duodenalis.