Molecular Characterization and Physiological Tolerances of Acanthamoeba Isolated from Recreational River Water in Templer Forest Eco Park, Selangor: A Preliminary Study
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Abstract
Introduction: Acanthamoeba species are ubiquitous free-living protozoa that can be found worldwide. Acanthamoeba in recreational waters is concerning because it can cause serious human health issues, particularly Acanthamoeba keratitis and granulomatous amoebic encephalitis. Currently, this amoeba can be classified into 23 different genotypes, labeled T1 to T23. This study targets the identification of Acanthamoeba genotypes and their pathogenic characteristics within Templer Forest Eco Park, Selangor. Materials and Methods: To conduct this research, purposive sampling was performed, resulting in the collection of ten water samples from March to April 2023. Each sample underwent filtration using a nitrocellulose membrane, followed by analysis for Acanthamoeba presence through cultivation and PCR utilizing specific primers. Physiological tolerance assessments were executed on all samples that tested positive for Acanthamoeba. Results: PCR testing confirmed the presence of Acanthamoeba in 8 out of the 10 sampled water sources. Phylogenetic analysis classified six of these samples as genotype T18, while remaining samples were identified as genotypes T4 and T17. Tolerance assessments revealed one Acanthamoeba strain (genotype T4) exhibited significant pathogenicity. Conclusion: This is the first time that Acanthamoeba genotypes have been reported in recreational waters in Selangor. The findings suggest that Acanthamoeba strains present in the river water of Selangor may pose a potential health risk to humans. Therefore, it is recommended that health authorities implement regular monitoring of river water and install warning signage to mitigate the risk of diseases linked to pathogenic Acanthamoeba.
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