Vibrio Parahaemolyticus: A Review on Distribution, Pathogenesis, Virulence Determinants and Epidemiology

<i>Vibrio parahaemolyticus</i> is a Gram-negative, halophilic bacterium isolated from marine environments globally. After the consumption of contaminated seafood, <i>V. parahaemolyticus</i> causes acute gastroenteritis. To initiate infection, a wide range of virulence factors are required. A complex group of genes is known to participate in the pathogenicity of <i>V. parahaemolyticus</i>; however, to understand the full mechanism of infection, extensive research is yet required. <i>V. parahaemolyticus</i> has become the leading cause of seafood-related gastroenteritis in Japan, the United States and several other parts of the world. In addition, outbreaks caused by the pandemic clone of this organism are escalating and spreading universally. To minimize the risk of <i>V. parahaemolyticus</i> infection and warrant the safety of seafood, collaboration between governments and scientists is required. We herein provide an updated review of the pathogenicity determinants and distribution of <i>V. parahaemolyticus</i> to deliver a better understanding of the significance of <i>V. parahaemolyticus</i> and its host-pathogen interactions.