BACKGROUND

Toxoplasmosis is a parasitic disease caused by compilation protozoan agent , leading to significant financial and quality-adjusted life-year losses. Overcooked or raw meat consumption has been a considerable transmission route. The present study was conducted to determine the seropositivity rate of in sheep and goats by serological and molecular tests and genotyping of obtained isolates in northeast Iran.

METHODS

Blood and tissue samples (diaphragm, heart) of 296 animals (including 168 sheep and 128 goats) were collected from the slaughterhouse in Quchan Country from august 2016 to April 2017. Modified agglutination test (MAT) and the PCR method performed to detect parasite DNA on tissues.PCR-RFLP method of gene was used to determine the genotype of . In addition, sequencing analysis was performed to evaluate the type strains.

RESULTS

Serum positive for MAT results were found in 27.4% of sheep and 23.4% of goats. Positive PCR of gene results in diaphragm and heart tissues of sheep and goats was 47.8% and 26.1%, 40% and 23.3%, respectively. PCR of gene results were positive in 10 samples that RFLP technique results using enzyme revealed genotype I. Sequencing and phylogenetic analysis revealed DNA of all samples was closely related to type I.

CONCLUSION

Concerning the high seropositivity rate of toxoplasmosis, undertaking an appropriate preventive program for reducing the prevalence of infection by raw or undercooked meat consumption of livestock is recommended. Our study supports the notion that these animals' consumption of raw and undercooked meat can be a probable source of human toxoplasmosis.