First Molecular Detection and Genetic Characterization of Tetratrichomonas buttreyi and Pentatrichomonas hominis in Donkeys in Shanxi Province, China

Two species of trichomonads, <i>Tetratrichomonas buttreyi</i> and <i>Pentatrichomonas hominis</i>, are common intestinal parasites that can impact animal health and productivity. Severe infection by these parasites can lead to diarrhea and wasting in affected animals. Notably, <i>P. hominis</i> is known to cause diarrhea and has the potential to be transmitted between animals and humans. Donkeys hold significant economic importance in China's agricultural sector. However, whether donkeys are infected with <i>T. buttreyi</i> and <i>P. hominis</i> remains unknown globally. To address this gap in knowledge, 815 fecal samples were collected from donkeys in three representative regions in Shanxi Province, North China. Then, the presence and genetic characteristics of <i>T. buttreyi</i> and <i>P. hominis</i> were examined using species-specific PCR primers amplifying the small subunit ribosomal RNA genes. The overall prevalence was detected to be 25.4% (207/815) for <i>T. buttreyi</i> and 0.7% (6/815) for <i>P. hominis</i> in donkeys in Shanxi Province. All obtained <i>P. hominis</i> sequences were identified as genotype CC1. Genetic analysis revealed that all <i>P. hominis</i> isolates from donkeys were clustered into the same branch with isolates detected in humans, suggesting possible zoonotic transmission. This study is the first to report the occurrence and prevalence of <i>T. buttreyi</i> and <i>P. hominis</i> in donkeys globally. These findings expand the host range of trichomonads and improve our understanding of their genetic diversity and zoonotic potential, providing essential baseline data for the prevention and control of these parasites in donkeys in the region.