A new set of primers directed to 18S rRNA gene for molecular identification of Cryptosporidium spp. and their performance in the detection and differentiation of oocysts shed by synanthropic rodents

- A new set of primers for the detection of Cryptosporidium spp. was designed.
- Cryptosporidium rat genotypes II and III from Brazil and Australia are divergent.
- Zoonotic transmission of Cryptosporidium spp. by rats in Brazil should be revisited.
- Cryptosporidium rat genotypes II and III seem to belong to the same species.