Molecular detection and genotyping of Toxoplasma gondii in stray cat feces from Khorramabad, West Iran

Cats, being the definitive host of <i>Toxoplasma gondii</i>, have a significant impact on the spread and outbreaks of the parasite. An essential factor in comprehending the transmission pattern of this parasite is an analysis of the genetic diversity distribution in cats infected with <i>T. gondii</i>. This study was aimed at determining the prevalence rate and genotyping of <i>T. gondii</i> in stray cat feces from Khorramabad, West Iran. In the years 2016-2017, 200 cats were sampled to get fresh feces specimens. Parasitological methods were utilized for the identification of oocysts. The DNA was isolated from the feces using a commercially available Genomic Mini Kit. In order to identify the genetic composition of <i>T. gondii</i>, we employed PCR-RFLP, sequencing, and phylogenetic analysis of the GRA6 target gene. No one of the samples tested positive for parasitology techniques. A total of 6.5 % (13/200) samples were positive when using the GRA6-PCR method. Based on PCR-RFLP results, all 13 samples were of <i>T. gondii</i> type III genotype. The nucleotide sequences of two samples from this study were found to be 5 % different from those of 12 references of <i>T. gondii</i> and one strain of <i>Hammondia hamondi</i> that was used as an external control. Based on the findings, molecular tests are more sensitive than parasitological methods. The RFLP approach revealed that type III of <i>T. gondii</i> is the prevailing and important genotype in Khorramabad, West Iran.