Multilocus Microsatellite Analysis of the Molecular Epidemiology of <i>Microsporum canis</i> Isolated in Japan

Abstract

Microsporum canis, a major causative agent of zoonotic dermatophytosis, has become prevalent in Japan. Molecular epidemiological surveys using multilocus microsatellite typing (MLMT), a sensitive genotyping tool for fungi, have been conducted to reveal intraspecies polymorphisms of M. canis. The present study utilized MLMT optimized for Japanese strains of M. canis to analyze epidemic trends of fungal infection. Six individual loci were targeted; namely, MS1, 2, 4, 5, 6, and 7. Analysis of data from 1974 through 2022 identified 416 strains, which were sorted into 60 genotypes by MLMT. The major genotypes showed changes in dominance during this period-changes that may reflect historical increases and decreases in the numbers of patients infected with M. canis patients. The main origins of infection included animal breeders and pet stores, as well as stray cat communities. Forty-nine episodes of familial outbreaks and cohabitant animal infections were recorded, and genotypes responsible for each episode were determined. MLMT analysis is not only a robust tool to understand population structures, but likely the most suitable method for tracking M. canis infections.