Direct genotypic characterization of Toxoplasma gondii strains associated with congenital toxoplasmosis in Tunisia (North Africa)
2011

Genotyping Toxoplasma gondii Strains in Tunisia

Sample size: 17 publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Boughattas Sonia, Ben-Abdallah Rym, Siala Emna, Ben-Abda Imen, Souissi Olfa, Aoun Karim, Bouratbine Aida

Primary Institution: Institut Pasteur de Tunis

Hypothesis

The study investigates the performance of the AK69 marker for genotyping Toxoplasma gondii strains in Tunisia.

Conclusion

The AK69 marker is highly effective for directly identifying Toxoplasma gondii strains, especially mixed or recombinant types in Tunisia.

Supporting Evidence

  • The AK69 marker was able to discriminate between different congenital toxoplasmosis strains.
  • The study confirmed the presence of mixed/recombinant genotypes in the samples.
  • The detection limit of the AK69 marker was established at 100 fg of T. gondii DNA.

Takeaway

This study shows a new way to tell different types of a tiny germ that can make people sick, using a special marker that works really well.

Methodology

The study used PCR amplification and sequencing of the AK69 gene marker to identify Toxoplasma gondii strains from clinical samples.

Limitations

The study had a small sample size due to the low detection rate of the parasite during pregnancy.

Participant Demographics

The study included 3 reference strains and 14 clinical specimens from confirmed congenital toxoplasmosis cases.

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1186/1756-3305-4-167

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