Al-Qadisiyah Journal of Veterinary Medicine Sciences

Biomarker-Based Evaluation and Molecular Identification with Phylogenetic Analysis of Echinococcus granulosus from Liver Samples of Sheep and Goats in Al-Qadisiyah Province, Iraq

Document Type : Research Paper

Authors

Department of Veterinary Microbiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Al-Qadisiyah, Al-Diwaniyah City, Iraq

10.29079/qjvms.2025.156653.1062

Abstract

Hydatid disease caused by Echinococcus granulosus is an important zoonotic disease for livestock health and economy in endemic areas such as Iraq. The study aimed at molecularly isolating E. granulosus from sheep and goats and use cytokine biomarkers to determine patterns of immune responses in infected hosts. There were 150 liver samples from sheep (n=75) and goats (n=75) from an abattoir located in Al-Diwaniyah city, Iraq. The 18S rRNA gene was amplified by PCR. PCR products were sequenced, and the phylogenetic analyses were done to establish genetic variation and evolutionary relationships. For biomarker analysis, the cytokines IL-4 and IL-10 were measured with ELISA. The results verified the presence of E. granulosus in all the infected samples. Phylogenetic analysis identified genetic sub-groups within local isolates and regional genetic diversity. Cytokine measurements indicated significantly high IL-10 levels in the animals, especially those with more severe infections, which indicates an anti-inflammatory response. IL-4, by contrast, was variable based on host immune modulation. It explains in detail the molecular and immunological nature of E. granulosus disease in sheep and goats. This combination of phylogenetic and biomarker profiling makes region-specific diagnosis and immune test critical. These discoveries will lead to better diagnostic and management methods for hydatid disease in endemic areas for improved veterinary medicine and economic sustainability.

Keywords

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Al-Qadisiyah Journal of Veterinary Medicine Sciences
Volume 24, Issue 1
January 2025
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