Genotyping of Echinococcus granulosus isolated from canine in Northwest Iran

Echinococcus granulosus is a parasitic tapeworm that causes cystic echinococcosis, a potentially life-threatening zoonotic infection affecting humans and animals across the globe. In Iran, the prevalence of this parasite remains a significant public health concern, particularly in the northwest region. This study aimed to investigate the genotypes of E. granulosus isolated from canines in the northwest of Iran. A total of 87 samples were collected from the Mughan plain area in Ardabil province, including 47 stray dogs (Canis familiaris), 25 golden jackals (Canis aureus), and 15 red foxes (Vulpes vulpes), and molecular analysis was performed for partial cytochrome c oxidase subunit 1 and nad1 genes. Phylogenetic analyses were carried out on the obtained sequence. The findings revealed that 9 out of 87 (10.3%) samples were infected with Echinococcus parasites, with a frequency of 1 (4%) and 8 (17%) among golden jackals and stray dogs, respectively. Overall, all (100%) E. granulosus adult samples were related to the G1 genotypes. This study provides comprehensive data regarding the epidemiological and molecular characteristics of echinococcosis in canines in northwest Iran.