Ricerca e caratterizzazione di protozoi zoonosici in mitili allevati e commercializzati nella Regione Sardegna

The aim of our research was to acquire epidemiological data on the occurrence, distribution and parasitic burden of zoonotic protozoa (Giardia,Cryptosporidium and Toxoplasma) in mussels from Sardinia, 85 samples were examined. From each sample we obtained 2 pools: the first one with digestive gland and the second with gills of shellfish. Every pool were processed for the research and genetic characterization of protozoans, using molecular biology techniques: PCR, Nested PCR and Real Time ofCryptosporidium(COWP/gp60),Giardia(gdh/Tpi/βgiardina), andToxoplasma(B1). The commercially available direct immunofluorescence antibody test used for the research ofCryptosporidiumandGiardiagave negative results for all samples tested and for both protozoa. PCR and Nested PCR, gave negative results for each protozoa in all pools. The RealTime PCR tecniques has highlighted the following results out of 170 pool sample tested: 11(6.4%) were positive forC. parvum, 8(4.7%) forG. duodenalisand 17 forT. gondii. The analyzed sequence of all these amplicons revealedG. duodenalisassemblage A,C. parvumandT. gondiitype1. The results of this study represent the first data collected in Sardinia about the presence of zoonotic protozoa in specimens ofMytilus galloprovincialis. The demonstration of a real risk for the consumer should be considered in order to integrate the existing legislation.