Publications by authors named "Kasandra Ascuna-Durand"
Despite the species' wide distribution, studies of the genetic diversity within Entamoeba coli and Entamoeba hartmanni remain limited. In the present study, we provide further insight into the genetic diversity of both species based on analysis of partial nuclear small subunit ribosomal DNA sequences generated from human fecal DNAs from samples collected in Africa, South America, and Europe. Reinforcing the previous recognition that E.
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- Common protozoa in the human gut are genetically diverse, leading to inconsistent symptoms and a controversial clinical significance.
- The study analyzed 116 stool samples using PCR techniques to find prevalence rates of subtypes 1, 2, and 3 in South America, identifying subtype 3 as the most common.
- While no direct associations were found between gastrointestinal symptoms and the protozoan subtypes, subtype 2 showed a statistically significant relationship with irritable bowel syndrome, although the sample size for IBS was small.
Blastocystis is one of the most common protozoa in the human gut and a zoonotic organism related to unsanitary living conditions. This protozoon shows a broad distribution, unclear symptomatology, and undefined pathogenicity. In Peru, studies report the presence of Blastocystis in many regions, but the highest prevalence levels are reported in Arequipa.
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