Molecular characterization and phylogeny of Enterobius vermicularis in Wasit Province, Iraq | ||
| Microbes and Infectious Diseases | ||
| Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript, Available Online from 23 September 2025 | ||
| Document Type: Original Article | ||
| DOI: 10.21608/mid.2025.413256.3106 | ||
| Authors | ||
| Muthanna N. K. Altaee* 1; Simaa Hasoob Mohammed1; Sura Emad Jassim2 | ||
| 1Department of Biology, College of Science, University of Wasit, Wasit, Iraq | ||
| 2Department of Forensic Science, College of Science, University of Wasit, Wasit, Iraq | ||
| Abstract | ||
| Background: Enterobius vermicularis causes enterobiasis with high prevalence worldwide, especially in children. Despite its endemic status in Iraq, molecular data on its genetic diversity are limited. This study aimed to characterize E. vermicularis isolates from Wasit Province using the mitochondrial cox1 gene. The study was approved by the Ethics Committee of the University of wasit Approval No. 3/7/1263, Jan. 24, 2023. Written informed consent was obtained from all participants or their legal guardians. Methods: A cross-sectional study Jan-Mar 2023 collected 85 stools from children aged 1–18 in five Wasit districts. After microscopic detection of eggs, DNA was extracted and PCR-amplified for a 407-bp cox1 gene segment, followed by Sanger sequencing. Sequences were analyzed by BLASTn, ClustalW, and MEGA-X. Results: vermicularis DNA was confirmed in 35 samples 41.2%. Sequence identity ranged from 88% to 100% compared to known strains. Isolates from Al-Hai district showed the greatest divergence 88%. Phylogenetic analysis revealed four distinct clades with geographic clustering. Eighteen nucleotide variable sites were identified 11 unique variants singletons and 7 shared variants doubletons, dominated by transitions A↔G, C↔T. Protein translation revealed four amino acid substitutions e.g., Thr→Ala, Val→Leu. One isolate’s sequence Sample 17, Al-Suwaira was deposited in GenBank PQ634874. Conclusion: This study supports Sustainable Development Goal 3 Good Health and Well-Being by advancing the molecular surveillance of neglected parasitic diseases in vulnerable pediatric populations in Iraq. One isolate’s sequence Sample 17, Al-Suwaira was deposited in GenBank PQ634874, contributing the first E. vermicularis sequence from central-southern Iraq to global databases. These findings support the integration of molecular tools into national enterobiasis control programs in Iraq and the Middle East, enabling genotype tracking and targeted interventions in high-risk districts. The study reveals notable genetic heterogeneity and regional structuring of E. vermicularis in Wasit. The cox1 gene is effective for comparative and phylogenetic analysis. Molecular surveillance is recommended to guide public health control of enterobiasis in Iraq. | ||
| Keywords | ||
| Enterobius vermicularis; cox1 gene; genetic diversity; molecular phylogeny; mitochondrial DNA | ||
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