Molecular characterization of local isolates of acanthamoeba spp.

Abstract

The genus of Acanthamoeba comprises several species of amoebae and they are found in various habitats. Although free-living, these amoebae can infect humans and a variety of mammals and may invade brain, eyes, skin, bones and lungs. The taxonomy and classification of Acanthamoeba is still unclear and under review. Although, the genus Acanthamoeba can easily be classified by observing their morphological characteristics, but to differentiate the species of this organism proved to be more difficult. Therefore, other new, refined and reliable techniques such as biochemical and molecular approaches should also be incorporated to resolve its taxonomy and classification problems.