Plasmodium vivax MSP-3β Gene as a Genetic Marker for the Parasite Detection in Comparison with Ssrrna Gene

BACKGROUND: The importance of accurate diagnosis of all of major diseases cannot be underestimated and efficient laboratory testing is vital to identifying and treating life-threatening illnesses including malaria. In this study, we compared the potential of one of merozoite surface protein genes, PvMSP-3β, for detection of Plasmodium vivax in blood samples by PCR with routinely used marker, ssrRNA gene. METHODS: One hundred P. vivax microscopy-positive blood samples were simultaneously tested with two genetic markers, including PvMSP-3β gene and ssrRNA gene by PCR and nestedPCR method, respectively, and their sensitivity and specificity in detection of P. vivax was compared. RESULTS: An important difference was seen in sensitivity between the 2 genetic markers, 100% in case of ssrRNA gene vs. 95% of PvMSP-3β gene. The specificity of the two markers was same (100%). Microscopic diagnoses of thick and thin blood smears was used as “golden standard” method. CONCLUSION: Due to critical importance of accurate detection of the parasite in malarious area, the PvMSP-3β gene cannot be a suitable marker for detection of P. vivax in blood sample by PCR. More investigations are needed to find other valid markers.