Phylogenetic analysis based on full-length large subunit ribosomal RNA gene sequence comparison reveals that Neospora caninum is more closely related to Hammondia heydorni than to Toxoplasma gondii

摘要: Since its first description in the late 1980s, Neospora caninum has been recognised as a prominent tissue cyst-forming parasite due to ability induce congenital disease and abortion animals, especially cattle. It is found worldwide cause of significant economic losses for livestock industry. However, place within family Sarcocystidae, like that several other taxa, remains unresolved. shares morphological life cycle characters with Hammondia heydorni, although it most commonly thought being close relative Toxoplasma gondii. This study presents information regarding phylogenetic relationship N. species currently classified into genus Hammondia, well two strains (RH ME49) T. gondii based on full-length large subunit ribosomal RNA gene. Phylogenetic analyses using alignment strategies three different tree-building methods showed are paraphyletic. was shown form monophyletic clade H. heydorni instead gondii, which turn be closely related hammondi. The finding phylogenetically may aid elucidation unknown aspects their biology epidemiology, suggests should considered differential diagnosis from apicomplexan parasites.