Identification of Acantamoeba Isolated From Water Resources Located in the Northwest of Iran by Using the High-Resolution Melting Analysis Assay Publisher



Hajialilo E ; Shabani S ; Rahmani B ; Saraei M ; Hosseini M A ; Ghalandari M ; Elekaei A ; Heydarian P
Source: International Microbiology Published:2026

Abstract

Background: Free-living amoebae (FLA), such as Acanthamoeba, are protozoan parasites that take advantage of opportunities with a widespread distribution in various environmental sources, such as a wide range of water sources. The amoeba can accidentally infect individuals and cause a variety of diseases, including amoebic encephalitis and keratitis, in both immunocompetent and immune-deficient individuals. The amoeba can act as reservoirs and carriers for pathogenic microorganisms, increasing the risk of pathogenicity in humans. The objective of this research was to identify the genotypes, besides in addition to the species of the FLA, in water sources in Qazvin province using high-resolution melting analysis (HRM). Methods: A total of 44 DNA isolates from FLA, including samples from swimming pools irrigation canals, and drinking water, were analyzed for the 18SrDNA gene using HRM. The data was evaluated using Chi-square test and Fisher’s exact tests. Results: The Molecular analysis revealed that 79.5% of the isolates were of the T3 genotype, 6.9% were of the T4 genotype of Acanthamoeba, and 13.6% were identified as Protoacantamoeba bohemica species. The statistical analysis exhibited a significant difference among the contamination and water source. Conclusion: As water sources directly related to the public health, this study recommends paying close attention to treating water sources and utilizing new and accurate molecular methods to identify the potential pathogenic amoeba. © The Author(s) 2026.