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Molecular surveillance of drug resistance through imported isolates of Plasmodium falciparum in Europe.

Authors :
Jelinek, Tomas
Peyerl-Hoffmann, Gabriele
Mühlberger, Nikolai
Wichmann, Ole
Wilhelm, Michael
Schmider, Nadja
Grobusch, Martin P.
von Sonnenburg, Frank
Gascon, Joaquim
Laferl, Hermann
Hatz, Christoph
Alifrangis, Michael
Burchard, Gerd
McWhinney, Paul
Schulze, Marco
Kollaritsch, Herwig
da Cunha, Saraiva
Beřan, Jiři
Kern, Peter
Gjørup, Ida
Source :
Malaria Journal; 2002, Vol. 1, p1-7, 7p
Publication Year :
2002

Abstract

Background: Results from numerous studies point convincingly to correlations between mutations at selected genes and phenotypic resistance to antimalarials in Plasmodium falciparum isolates. In order to move molecular assays for point mutations on resistance-related genes into the realm of applied tools for surveillance, we investigated a selection of P. falciparum isolates that were imported during the year 2001 into Europe to study the prevalence of resistance-associated point mutations at relevant codons. In particular, we tested for parasites which were developing resistance to antifolates and chloroquine. The screening results were used to map the prevalence of mutations and, thus, levels of potential drug resistance in endemic areas world-wide. Results: 337 isolates have been tested so far. Prevalence of mutations that are associated with resistance to chloroquine on the pfcrt and pfmdr genes of P. falciparum was demonstrated at high levels. However, the prevalence of mutations associated with resistance to antifolates at the DHFR and DHPS genes was unexpectedly low, rarely exceeding 60% in endemic areas. Conclusions: Constant screening of imported isolates will enable TropNetEurop to establish a screening tool for emerging resistance in endemic areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Details

Language :
English
ISSN :
14752875
Volume :
1
Database :
Complementary Index
Journal :
Malaria Journal
Publication Type :
Academic Journal
Accession number :
30095896