In one of the first studies to quantitatively compare Blastocystis‘ impact on intestinal epithelial cells to other infections, the Singapore team reports that Blastocystis impact on intestinal permeability is similar to that reported in studies of Giardia intestinalis, but less than that of Entamoeba histolytica. Researchers also report significant differences in adhesiveness between different strains the same subtype (ST7). Metronidazole-resistance appeared to be associated with a performance penalty, as resistant strains exhibited an impaired ability to attach to epithelial cells, and produced less of an increase in intestinal permeability. View study from PLOS-Neglected Topical Diseases
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Mar 2015