Molecular epidemiology of Giardia infections in the genomic era

Capewell, P. , Krumrie, S. , Katzer, F., Alexander, C. L. and Weir, W. (2021) Molecular epidemiology of Giardia infections in the genomic era. Trends in Parasitology, 37(2), pp. 142-153. (doi: 10.1016/j.pt.2020.09.013) (PMID:33067130)

Abstract

Giardia duodenalis is a major gastrointestinal parasite of humans and animals across the globe. It is also of interest from an evolutionary perspective as it possesses many features that are unique among the eukaryotes, including its distinctive binucleate cell structure. While genomic analysis of a small number of isolates has provided valuable insights, efforts to understand the epidemiology of the disease and the population biology of the parasite have been limited by the molecular tools currently available. We review these tools and assess the impact of affordable and rapid genome sequencing systems increasingly being deployed in diagnostic settings. While these technologies have direct implications for public and veterinary health, they will also improve our understanding of the unique biology of this fascinating parasite.

• Item Type: Articles
• Status: Published
• Refereed: Yes
• Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID: Alexander, Miss Claire and Weir, Professor Willie and Krumrie, Sarah and Capewell, Dr Paul
• Authors: Capewell, P., Krumrie, S., Katzer, F., Alexander, C. L., and Weir, W.
• College/School: College of Medical Veterinary and Life Sciences > School of Infection & Immunity; College of Medical Veterinary and Life Sciences > School of Biodiversity, One Health & Veterinary Medicine
• Journal Name: Trends in Parasitology
• Publisher: Elsevier (Cell Press)
• ISSN: 1471-4922
• ISSN (Online): 1471-5007
• Published Online: 13 October 2020
• Copyright Holders: Copyright © 2020 Elsevier Ltd.
• First Published: First published in Trends in Parasitology 37(2): 142-153
• Publisher Policy: Reproduced in accordance with the publisher copyright policy