High Levels of Genetic Diversity of Plasmodium falciparum Populations in Papua New Guinea despite Variable Infection Prevalence

Barry, AE; Schultz, L; Senn, N; Nale, J; Kiniboro, B; Siba, PM; Mueller, I; Reeder, JC

Author(s): Barry, AE; Schultz, L; Senn, N; Nale, J; Kiniboro, B; Siba, PM; Mueller, I; Reeder, JC;
Details: Publication Year 2013-04,Volume 88,Issue #4,Page 718-725
Journal Title: AMERICAN JOURNAL OF TROPICAL MEDICINE AND HYGIENE
Publication Type: Journal Article
Abstract: High levels of genetic diversity in Plasmodium falciparum populations are an obstacle to malaria control. Here, we investigate the relationship between local variation in malaria epidemiology and parasite genetic diversity in Papua New Guinea (PNG). Cross-sectional malaria surveys were performed in 14 villages spanning four distinct malaria-endemic areas on the north coast, including one area that was sampled during the dry season. High-resolution msp2 genotyping of 2,147 blood samples identified 761 P. falciparum infections containing a total of 1,392 clones whose genotypes were used to measure genetic diversity. Considerable variability in infection prevalence and mean multiplicity of infection was observed at all of the study sites, with the area sampled during the dry season showing particularly striking local variability. Genetic diversity was strongly associated with multiplicity of infection but not with infection prevalence. In highly endemic areas, differences in infection prevalence may not translate into a decrease in parasite population diversity.
Publisher: AMER SOC TROP MED & HYGIENE
Keywords: MALARIA-ENDEMIC AREA; EAST SEPIK PROVINCE; MICROSATELLITE MARKERS; PARASITE POPULATIONS; VACCINE TRIALS; WOSERA AREA; CHILDREN; EPIDEMIOLOGY; TRANSMISSION; PATTERNS
Research Division(s): Infection And Immunity
Link To PubMed Central Version: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3617858/
Publisher's Version: https://doi.org/10.4269/ajtmh.12-0056

Creation Date: 2013-04-01 12:00:00