Molecular characterization and genotyping of human related microsporidia in free-ranging and captive pigeons of Tehran, Iran

- The current molecular epidemiology of microsporidia was described in pigeons of Tehran.
- We investigated the genetic characteristics of human related microsporidia from pigeons of Tehran, Iran.
- Genotypes D, M and J of E. bieneusi were isolated from pigeons of Tehran.
- Genotypes 1A and 3 of E. hellem and I and II of E. cuniculi were characterized in pigeons.
- The excreta of pigeons of Tehran can be an important source of human infection with microsporidia.