Population genetic analysis of the Plasmodium falciparum 6-cys protein Pf38 in Papua New Guinea reveals domain-specific balancing selection.

ABSTRACT:

Background

The Plasmodium falciparum merozoite surface protein Pf38 is targeted by antibodies of malaria immune adults and has been shown to be under balancing (immune) selection in a Gambian parasite population, indicating potential as a malaria vaccine candidate. This study explores the population genetics of Pf38 in Papua New Guinea, to determine the extent and geographic distribution of diversity and to measure selective pressure along the length of the gene.

Methods

Using samples collected during community-based cross-sectional surveys in the Mugil and Wosera regions, the Pf38 genes of 59 P. falciparum isolates were amplified and sequenced. These sequences, along with previously sequenced Gambian and laboratory isolates, were then subjected to an array of population gen

SUBMITTER: Reeder JC 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3112457 | biostudies-literature | 2011 May

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature