Detection of Plasmodium falciparum Kelch 13 Propeller Gene Polymorphism Among Outpatients in Katsina State, Nigeria

Background and Objective: Malaria case management relies on Artemisinin Combination Therapy (ACT), but the emergence of artemisinin-resistant Plasmodium falciparum poses a threat to global malaria elimination. Kelch 13 gene mutations are associated with artemisinin resistance and their monitoring is crucial for a timely response. Nigeria, with the highest malaria burden in Africa, faces the risk of artemisinin-resistant parasites due to travel patterns. The study focuses on detecting K13 gene polymorphism in Katsina Nigeria to prevent drug resistance and inform treatment policies. Materials and Methods: The study, conducted in three Local Governments of Katsina State, collected 210 samples from three general hospitals. The DNA was extracted from P. falciparum-positive samples and the K13 gene was amplified using nested Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR). Sequencing and phylogenetic analysis were performed to identify gene variants and assess evolutionary relationships. Statistical analysis evaluated prevalence variations among hospitals. Results: Prevalence analysis revealed significant variations among three Local Government Areas, with Dutsin-ma having the highest (42.86%) and Ingawa the lowest (18.57%). The fragment of propeller that was investigated shows the presence of polymorphism among outpatients in three Local Government Areas of Katsina State. Four polymorphic sites were discovered in the propeller region of this gene. However, none of the four most implicated mutations associated with ACT resistance (Y493H, R539T, I543T or C580Y) were seen in the study area. Conclusion: The phylogenetic analysis revealed a common origin for all four identified genes within the same domain, indicating a shared ancestry.