Single-nucleotide polymorphisms and genome diversity in Plasmodium vivax.

ABSTRACT: The study of genetic variation in malaria parasites has practical significance for developing strategies to control the disease. Vaccines based on highly polymorphic antigens may be confounded by allelic restriction of the host immune response. In response to drug pressure, a highly plastic genome may generate resistant mutants more easily than a monomorphic one. Additionally, the study of the distribution of genomic polymorphisms may provide information leading to the identification of genes associated with traits such as parasite development and drug resistance. Indeed, the age and diversity of the human malaria parasite Plasmodium falciparum has been the subject of recent debate, because an ancient parasite with a complex genome is expected to present greater challenges for drug and vac

SUBMITTER: Feng X 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC166258 | biostudies-literature | 2003 Jul

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature