Cryptosporidium Pathogenicity and Virulence

Abstract

SUMMARYCryptosporidiumis a protozoan parasite of medical and veterinary importance that causes gastroenteritis in a variety of vertebrate hosts. Several studies have reported different degrees of pathogenicity and virulence amongCryptosporidiumspecies and isolates of the same species as well as evidence of variation in host susceptibility to infection. The identification and validation ofCryptosporidiumvirulence factors have been hindered by the renowned difficulties pertaining to thein vitroculture and genetic manipulation of this parasite. Nevertheless, substantial progress has been made in identifying putative virulence factors forCryptosporidium. This progress has been accelerated since the publication of theCryptosporidium parvumandC. hominisgenomes, with the characterization of over 25 putative virulence factors identified by using a variety of immunological and molecular techniques and which are proposed to be involved in aspects of host-pathogen interactions from adhesion and locomotion to invasion and proliferation. Progress has also been made in the contribution of host factors that are associated with variations in both the severity and risk of infection. Here we provide a review comprised of the current state of knowledge onCryptosporidiuminfectivity, pathogenesis, and transmissibility in light of our contemporary understanding of microbial virulence.

Occurrence and molecular characterization of Cryptosporidium sp. in sheep

“…Considered a zoonosis of utmost importance, cryptosporidiosis has a worldwide distribution and can infect about 170 species of animals including mammals, birds, reptiles, and amphibians (SANTÍN, 2013;FAYER, 2008;BOUZID et al, 2013). Currently, about 26 species of Cryptosporidium spp.…”

Comparison of ELISA and Microscopy for detection of Cryptosporidium in stool

“…Till now, more than 26 species of Cryptosporidium, are recognized based on host specificity, morphology and molecular biology studies [1].…”

Expression and Purification of gp40/15 Antigen of Cryptosporidium parvum Parasite in Escherichia coli: an Innovative Approach in Vaccine Production

“…Studies have shown some important parasite antigens and proteins such as gp40/15, P23, gp40, gp15, and gp900 that have important roles in invasion and adhesion of the parasite to host cells (5). These proteins can induce production of some specific host immune responses against the infection, which can be detected by antibodies in serum of humans, who are infected with Cryptosporidium parvum (6). Accordingly, production of these immunogenic proteins as recombinant proteins and DNA vaccines provides a valuable strategy for the diagnosis of infection and immunize animals (3,(7)(8)(9).…”