The LAMP assay, amplifies the target DNA rapidly, with 10-fold greater sensitivity than conventional PCR. The greater sensitivity also comes with greater risks of contamination. To overcome this issue, the current project includes either uracil DNA glycosylase (UDG) or a mineral oil overlay in the LAMP assay. Our results indicated that UDG or a mineral oil overlay can effectively prevent carryover contamination in the LAMP assay for the detection of human malaria. By incorporating these preventative methods, contamination can be eliminated and LAMP can potentially be used in the field; and point of care diagnosis for human malaria.
Information about Plasmodium malariae is scanty worldwide due to its "benign" nature and low infection rates. Consequently, studies on the genetic polymorphisms of P. malariae are lacking. Here, we report genetic polymorphisms of 28 P. malariae circumsporozoite protein (Pmcsp) isolates from Malaysia which were compared with those in other regions in Asia as well as those from Africa. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that most Malaysian P. malariae isolates clustered together but independently from other Asian isolates. Low nucleotide diversity was observed in Pmcsp non-repeat regions in contrast to high nucleotide diversity observed in non-repeat regions of Plasmodium knowlesi CSP gene, the current major cause of malaria in Malaysia. This study contributes to the characterisation of naturally occurring polymorphisms in the P. malariae CSP gene.