Phenotypic and molecular characterization of virulence-associated enzymes in Malassezia spp. isolated from companion animals in northern Iran.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Malassezia spp. are lipid-dependent yeasts that colonize the skin of humans and animals and may act as opportunistic pathogens. This study aimed to characterize virulence-associated enzymes and their encoding genes in Malassezia spp. isolated from companion animals in northern Iran. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 300 clinical samples were collected from dogs and cats with dermatological or otic lesions. Species identification was performed using ITS-based PCR. Multiplex PCR was used to detect LIP, PLB, and KER genes. Enzymatic activity was evaluated using the Pz index. Statistical analyses included Chi-square and Spearman's correlation tests (p < 0.05). RESULTS: Eighty isolates were identified as Malassezia pachydermatis (87.5%) and Malassezia nana (12.5%). LIP, PLB, and KER genes were detected in 90%, 62.5%, and 50% of isolates, respectively. Strong enzymatic activity (Pz ≤ 0.69) was observed in 41.2% of isolates. A significant association was found between the presence of the PLB gene and phospholipase activity. CONCLUSION: Malassezia pachydermatis was the predominant species. Virulence-associated genes were associated with higher enzymatic activity, supporting their role in pathogenic potential.