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Characterization of an Onchocerca-specific DNA clone from Onchocerca volvulus

J S Shah1, M Karam, W F Piessens

  • 1Department of Tropical Public Health, Harvard School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts 02115.

The American Journal of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene
|September 1, 1987
PubMed

Insights

Researchers identified novel DNA sequences from Onchocerca volvulus (a parasite causing river blindness). These sequences can help detect and differentiate parasite species, aiding in disease control efforts.

Area of Science:

  • Molecular biology
  • Parasitology
  • Genomics

Background:

  • Onchocerca volvulus is a parasitic nematode responsible for onchocerciasis (river blindness).
  • Effective diagnostic tools are crucial for controlling parasitic infections.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To identify and characterize highly repeated DNA sequences from Onchocerca volvulus.
  • To develop specific probes for detecting and differentiating Onchocerca species.

Main Methods:

  • Screening of a genomic library of Onchocerca volvulus.
  • Hybridization studies (Southern blot analysis) with various DNA sources.
  • DNA sequencing of a selected recombinant plasmid (puOvs3).

Main Results:

  • Four recombinant plasmids containing unique, highly repeated DNA sequences were identified.
  • These sequences specifically hybridized to Onchocerca DNA, showing low homology to Dirofilaria immitis.
  • Sequences were found in different Onchocerca geographic isolates and related species.
  • The puOvs3 plasmid detected small amounts of O. volvulus DNA and differentiated it from O. ochengi.

Conclusions:

  • Novel, species-specific DNA sequences of Onchocerca volvulus have been identified.
  • These sequences serve as valuable diagnostic markers for detecting Onchocerca species.
  • The findings contribute to the development of improved tools for onchocerciasis diagnosis and control.

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