Genetic Diversity of Malaria Parasite Plasmodium falciparum Using Microsatellite Markers in Rivers State

Plasmodium falciparum malaria continues to impose a heavy disease burden on the Niger Delta region of Nigeria. Understanding the genetic diversity of circulating parasite populations is essential for monitoring drug resistance, vaccine efficacy, and transmission dynamics. This study assessed the genetic diversity of P. falciparum isolates collected from malaria patients attending secondary healthcare facilities in Rivers State, South South Nigeria. Blood samples from 200 microscopically confirmed malaria cases were collected, and parasite DNA was extracted using the QIAamp DNA Mini Kit. Seven microsatellite loci (including msp1, msp2, glurp, and four neutral loci) were amplified by PCR and genotyped using capillary electrophoresis. Allelic richness and expected heterozygosity were calculated as indices of diversity. Results indicated high genetic diversity across all sampled loci, with multiple circulating haplotypes, suggesting complex transmission and polyclonal infections. No significant spatial structuring was observed across districts within the state. These findings highlight challenges for malaria control in Rivers State and stress the need for ongoing parasite surveillance to inform treatment policy. Keywords: Plasmodium falciparum, genetic diversity, microsatellites, malaria, Rivers State