Exploring Pathogenicity in Blastocystis ST7 and ST4: A comparative analysis of virulence factors from known intestinal parasites for pathogenicity assessment in Blastocystis spp.

Abstract

Blastocystis, a unicellular parasite found in the human gastrointestinal tract, has been a topic of study due to its potential pathogenicity. This study identified potential virulence factors within Blastocystis subtypes ST7 and ST4 from the established virulence factors of Giardia intestinalis, Entamoeba histolytica, and Cryptosporidium pavrum. Bioinformatics tools have been applied to analyze structural and characteristic differences. Certain motifs were found in Blastocystis which could impact its pathogenicity, as well as many conserved regions like in the known virulence factors. These include the motifs QxVxG, CxxC, RGD, ERFNIN, and GNFD, as well as a possible occluding loop. In terms of the active sites found, Blastocystis ST7 has all three active sites forming a catalytic dyad, while Blastocystis ST4 only had two active sites. This could indicate that Blastocystis ST7 has a higher enzymatic activity. The findings could have an impact on the regulation of the protease activity, modulating protein function, regulation of biological processes, and stability and folding of proteins. The project also includes a molecular approach, where Blastocystis ST7 was meant to be cloned and determine the expression of genes 60SRPL32 and PC1A. Despite the challenges faced during the laboratory work of the project, not all experiments were completed. Therefore, a methodology of how it can be performed is explained. By completing this research, it could lead us to an improved understanding of Blastocystis and its behavior. The findings suggest similarities in the mechanisms and functions of these virulence factors, indicating the potential pathogenic nature of Blastocystis. This study contributes to the growing field of knowledge in parasitology by giving important insights into the complicated world of parasitic infections. As scientists continue to examine the complexities of Blastocystis, this study provides the framework for eventually improving global health outcomes in the challenge of parasitic illnesses.