Analysis of the mitochondrial genome to determine the origins and pathways of entry of <i>Angiostrongylus cantonensis</i> in continental Europe (Valencia, Spain).

ABSTRACT: Angiostrongylus cantonensis, the rat lungworm, is a zoonotic parasite mainly of rats which act as definitive hosts. If humans become accidentally infected, the nematode is capable of migrating to the brain causing meningoencephalitis. Intermediate hosts are snails and slugs. Although originating from mainland China, A. cantonensis has now spread to various countries and continents. The precise timing of its departure from mainland China remains uncertain although it is often associated with significant historical events or migratory movements. The exit of A. cantonensis from mainland China is believed to have occurred in a singular event, followed by its divergence into 2 distinct clades: clade I, originating from mainland China, and clade II, representing global sprea

SUBMITTER: Gomez-Samblas M 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11893999 | biostudies-literature | 2024 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature