Identification and validation of novel Blastocystis subtype ST41 in a Colombian patient undergoing colorectal cancer screening

Blastocystis sp. is among the most frequent intestinal protists identified in humans globally. However, characterization of Blastocystis subtype diversity in humans is ongoing. We report here the identification of novel Blastocystis subtype ST41 in a Colombian patient undergoing colorectal cancer screening involving colonoscopy and fecal testing (microscopy, culture, PCR). The full-length ssu rRNA gene sequence of the protist was generated using MinION long-read sequencing technology. The validity of the novel subtype was confirmed via phylogenetic and pairwise distance analyses of the full-length ST41 sequence and all other valid subtypes. The study provides reference material essential for conducting subsequent experimental studies.

Automated summary

Blastocystis sp. is a common intestinal protist in humans worldwide. The diversity of Blastocystis subtypes in humans is still being studied. In this research, a novel Blastocystis subtype ST41 was identified in a Colombian patient undergoing colorectal cancer screening. The full-length ssu rRNA gene sequence of the protist was determined using MinION long-read sequencing technology. The validity of the novel subtype was confirmed through phylogenetic and pairwise distance analyses. This study provides essential reference material for future experimental studies.