Genetic diversity and expression profile of Plasmodium falciparum Pf34 gene supports its immunogenicity

Genetic variation is one of the major obstacles in the development of effective vaccines. A multivalent malaria vaccine is required to increase efficacy and confer long term protection. In this context, we analysed the genetic diversity, expression profile, and immune response against Pf34.

Phylogenetic analysis was carried out using Pf34 orthologues sequences of various Plasmodium species. Genetic diversity was analysed by PCR amplification and Sanger dideoxy sequencing of Pf34 gene from Plasmodium falciparum positive human blood samples. The expression level of Pf34 gene was studied during erythrocytic stage by real time qPCR at four-hour interval, and immune response against synthetic peptides of Pf34 (P1 and P2) was analysed using ELISA.

Phylogenetic analysis revealed the conserved nature of Pf34 gene. Genetic diversity analysis showed that majority (92%) of Plasmodium falciparum isolates in available database bore wild type Pf34 gene (Hd = 0.160 ± 0.030, π = 0.00021), including the present study (89.3%). The P. falciparum specific amino acid repeats (NNDK, NNDLK, and NNNNNN) in the B cell epitope regions were conserved. Furthermore, Pf34 gene is expressed throughout the erythrocytic cycle and comparatively high expression was observed in early ring and schizont stage. High IgG response was observed against both the peptides P1 and P2 of Pf34 containing asparagine NNNNNN and NNDLK repeat respectively.

The limited genetic diversity, presence of conserved amino acid repeats within B cell epitope and high IgG response suggests that Pf34 may be a potential vaccine candidate for malaria. However, further validation studies are required.