Genetic diversity and population structure of Plasmodium falciparum in Nigeria: insights from microsatellite loci analysis
Year: 2021
Type: article
Study design: Observational Study
Abstract: BACKGROUND: Malaria remains a public health burden especially in Nigeria. To develop new malaria control and elimination strategies or refine existing ones, understanding parasite population diversity and transmission patterns is crucial. METHODS: In this study, characterization of the parasite diversity and structure of Plasmodium falciparum isolates from 633 dried blood spot samples in Nigeria was carried out using 12 microsatellite loci of P. falciparum. These microsatellite loci were amplified via semi-nested polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and fragments were analysed using population genetic tools. RESULTS: Estimates of parasite genetic diversity, such as mean number of different alleles (13.52), effective alleles (7.13), allelic richness (11.15) and expected heterozygosity (0.804), were high. Overall linkage disequilibrium was weak (0.006, P < 0.001). Parasite population structure was low (Fst: 0.008-0.105, AMOVA: 0.039). CONCLUSION: The high level of parasite genetic diversity and low population structuring in this study suggests that parasite populations circulating in Nigeria are homogenous. However, higher resolution methods, such as the 24 SNP barcode and whole genome sequencing, may capture more specific parasite genetic signatures circulating in the country. The results obtained can be used as a baseline for parasite genetic diversity and structure, aiding in the formulation of appropriate therapeutic and control strategies in Nigeria.
Source: Malaria Journal
Authors: Fehintola V. Ajogbasile, Adeyemi T. Kayode, Paul E. Oluniyi, Kazeem O. Akano, Jessica N. Uwanibe, Benjamin B. Adegboyega, Courage Philip, Oluwagboadurami G. John, Philomena J. Eromon, George Emechebe, Finimo Finimo, Nnenna Ogbulafor, Nma Jiya, Uche Okafor, Jose Ambe, Robinson D. Wammanda, Stephen Oguche, Olugbenga A. Mokuolu, Akintunde Sowunmi, Onikepe A. Folarin, Christian T. Happi
Institutions: Redeemer's University, Covenant University, Imo State University Teaching Hospital, Federal Ministry of Health, University of Nigeria, University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital, University of Maiduguri, Ahmadu Bello University, University of Jos, Jos University Teaching Hospital, University of Ilorin, University of Ibadan
Language: English
Topic: Malaria Research and Control
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $2,490
OpenAlex ID: W3165874530