5 S ribosomal spacer sequences of some filarial parasites: comparative analysis and diagnostic applications

We have amplified by PCR the sequences of the 5 S ribosomal spacer of Setar ia labiatopapillosa and Foleyella furcata. After sequencing, these sequence s have been compared with those of Dirofilaria immitis and Dirofilaria repe ns. Two major goals have been achieved: (i) the establishment of a multiple x PCR-based diagnostic assay, applicable to identify the four species in ve rtebrate and invertebrate hosts; (ii) the identification, in S. labiatopapi llosa and F. furcata, of a canonical spliced leader 1 (SL1) sequence, so co nfirming that only D. repens, of the filarial parasites so far studied, sho ws a peculiar SL1 sequence. The PCR assay here developed and the analysis o f the 5 S ribosomal spacer, can further improve both epidemiological and mo lecular analysis of these filarial species. (C) 2000 Academic Press.