<i>Pentatrichomonas hominis</i> Infection Induces Chronic Intestinal Inflammation in Immunocompetent Mice.

ABSTRACT: Pentatrichomonas hominis (P. hominis) has traditionally been regarded as a commensal or opportunistic inhabitant of the intestine. However, a growing number of studies have identified this protozoan as the sole pathogen in cases of intestinal disorders, including diarrhea, in both humans and animals, suggesting it may be a neglected zoonotic pathogen. To investigate the pathogenicity of P. hominis, we here systematically evaluated its effects on healthy immunocompetent BALB/c mice. Our findings revealed that infection with P. hominis induced injury in the large intestine, marked by inflammatory cell infiltration, epithelial cell necrosis, and intestinal mucosal sloughing. These pathological changes persisted and worsened throughout the 90-day observation period.

SUBMITTER: Rong Y 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12701619 | biostudies-literature | 2025

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature