Molecular detection and characterization of Trichomonas gallinae isolated from ornamental birds in Tehran, Iran

Trichomonas gallinae is a widespread protozoan parasite that primarily affects birds, causing a disease known as avian trichomonosis. The present study aimed to investigate the prevalence and genetic diversity of T. gallinae, a parasite causing avian trichomoniasis in feral pigeons, budgerigars, and finches in Tehran, Iran. The 5.8S ribosomal RNA locus, along with the internal transcribed spacer 2 (ITS2) region, has been extensively utilized for genotype identification and for determining inter- and intra-specific diversity. More recently, the Fe-hydrogenase (Fe-Hyd) gene has been suggested as an additional genetic marker to enhance the accuracy of strain subtyping discrimination. In the present study, a total of 12% (12/100) birds examined were infected with T. gallinae using microscopy and PCR methods. Infection was found in seven of 30 (23.3%) feral pigeons, three of 40 (7.5%) budgerigars, and two of 30 (6.66%) finches. Analysis of the ITS2 region of T. gallinae isolates revealed two highly similar sequences. The first sequence (GenBank: OQ689964-OQ689970) was found in five feral pigeons and two budgerigars, whereas the second sequence (GenBank: OQ689971-OQ689975) was identified in two feral pigeons, one budgerigar, and two finches. Phylogenetic analysis confirmed the presence of two distinct clusters (cluster I and cluster II) within the trichomonads based on the ITS2 region. However, further analysis using Fe-Hyd revealed greater diversity, with three subtypes identified (A1, A2, and C1). One isolate identified in the present study (GenBank accession number: OQ694508.1) belonged to subtype A1. Combining ITS2 and Fe-Hyd markers holds promise for a more comprehensive understanding of the population structure of T. gallinae and the potential role of ITS2 in host adaptation.