الفهرس 
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Abstract
Background: Cystic Echinococcosis (CE), caused by the larval stage of the dog tapeworm Echinococcus granulosus sensu lato (E. granulosus s. l.), is a widespread neglected zoonotic disease that occurs in many parts of the world. Egypt is considered one of the countries where CE represents a public health concern and so far few studies were done for molecular characterization of the parasite.
Aim of the work: Aim of the present study was to use the PCR-RFLP technique for genotyping of E. granulosus isolates targeting the NADH dehydrogenase subunit 1 gene (nad1) and interpretation of results based on in silico PCR-RFLP analysis of reference strains retrieved from GenBank.
Subjects and methods: a pilot study was first done where reference strains retrieved from GenBank were analyzed by in silico RFLP analysis using two enzymes HinfI and HaeIII. Virtual graphs and algorithms for interpretation of the results were constructed. Fifty hydatid cyst fluid (HCF) and/or germinal layer samples (19 humans, 23 camels, and 8 pigs) were collected. DNA was extracted and used as a template to amplify the nad1 gene (1069-1078 bp). The amplified PCR products were digested individually with the two restriction endonucleases to generate RFLP patterns. Samples representing the different genotypes inferred from the RFLP patterns as well as those not determined were subjected to automated DNA sequencing based on Sagner’s technique.
Results: PCR-RFLP and sequencing showed that, except for two cases (12.5 %) which were typed as G1 among humans and one case as G5 in pigs (12.5 %), E. canadenesis G6/7 was the predominant strain among human, camel and pig samples examined.
Conclusion: Camel strain (G6) is the predominant genotype in Egypt. Camels and pigs are crucial in the life cycle of the parasite in Egypt, although other animals may play a role. Control strategies should be implemented to prevent infection of dogs by consuming cysts in tissues of infected animals.