Disparate selection of mutations in the dihydrofolate reductase gene (dhfr) of Plasmodium ovale curtisi and P. o. wallikeri in Africa

PLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases, 2022 · DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0010977 · Published: December 5, 2022

Simple Explanation

This study investigates drug resistance in two malaria parasites, Plasmodium ovale curtisi and Plasmodium ovale wallikeri, in Africa. By analyzing samples from Chinese travelers returning from Africa, the researchers found mutations in genes related to drug resistance. The findings suggest that P. ovale curtisi may be developing drug resistance in Africa, highlighting the need for further monitoring.

Study Duration

2012 to 2016

Participants

147 P. ovale spp. positive migrant workers returning to Jiangsu province of China from Africa

Evidence Level

Not specified

Key Findings

1
Two podhfr mutations, S58R and S113N/T, were detected in P. ovale curtisi with high/moderate frequencies.
2
Evidence of positive selection was found for podhfr in P. ovale curtisi.
3
Significant differences in the prevalence and distribution of podhfr mutations were observed between the two P. ovale species.

Research Summary

The study analyzed polymorphisms in drug resistance-related genes of P. ovale spp. in samples from travelers returning to China from Africa. High frequencies of S58R and S113N/T mutations were observed in the podhfr gene of P. ovale curtisi isolates from Africa. The findings suggest that the podhfr gene of P. ovale curtisi may be subject to drug selection in Africa, warranting further investigation.

Practical Implications

Drug Resistance Monitoring

The findings highlight the importance of monitoring drug resistance in P. ovale spp. in Africa.

Species-Specific Policies

Observed differences may inform different public health policies targeting these two P. ovale spp. species.

Further Research

Further studies are required to shed light on the phenomenon of disparate mutation profiles in the dhfr gene of both species.

Study Limitations

1
Relatively small number of samples were analysed.
2
Sample sources are unevenly distributed throughout Africa.
3
There is currently no evidence to link the P. ovale spp. mutations to drug resistance.

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