Identification of Leishmania strains from Jordan
E K Saliba1, F Pratlong, J P Dedet
1Department of Biotechnology and Genetic Engineering, Philadelphia University, P.O. Box 1, Amman, 19392, Jordan. salibaek@go.com.jo
Annals of Tropical Medicine and Parasitology
|October 29, 2004
Summary
Enzymatic profiling of Leishmania isolates in Jordan revealed distinct zymodemes for Leishmania major and Leishmania tropica. These genetic variations, identified through enzyme electrophoresis, highlight regional differences and parasite diversity.
Area of Science:
- Medical Parasitology
- Molecular Biology
- Genetics
Background:
- Leishmania parasites are a significant cause of disease globally.
- Understanding Leishmania genetic diversity is crucial for epidemiology and control.
- Jordan is an endemic region with various Leishmania species and vectors.
Purpose of the Study:
- To characterize the enzymatic profiles of Leishmania isolates from Jordan.
- To differentiate Leishmania species and zymodemes using isoenzyme analysis.
- To investigate the genetic diversity within Leishmania major and Leishmania tropica in the region.
Main Methods:
- Starch-gel electrophoresis was employed to analyze enzyme polymorphism.
- A panel of 15 enzymes was used for isoenzyme typing.
- Leishmania isolates were obtained from humans, rodents (Psammomys obesus), and sandflies (Phlebotomus papatasi).
Main Results:
- Thirteen isolates were identified as Leishmania major and nine as Leishmania tropica.
- Two zymodemes of L. major (MON-26 and MON-103) were distinguished by purine nucleoside phosphorylase.
- Four zymodemes of L. tropica (MON-7, MON-137, MON-200, MON-265) showed high enzymatic polymorphism, with MON-200 and MON-265 being unique to Jordan.
Conclusions:
- Enzymatic electrophoresis effectively differentiates Leishmania species and zymodemes.
- Distinct geographical distribution was observed for L. major zymodemes.
- Leishmania tropica exhibits significant enzymatic polymorphism in Jordan, with novel zymodemes identified.
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