Sequence Diversity in tRNA Gene Locus A-L among Iranian Isolates of Entamoeba dispar

A number of methods for detecting diversity in Entamoeba have been described over the years. In the present study the genetic polymorphism of noncoding locus A-L was ana­lyzed using PCR and sequencing in order to clarify the genotypic differences among E. dispar isolates. A total of 28 E. dispar from patients with gastrointestinal symptoms were determined and the genomic DNA was extracted directly from stool. For genotype analysis; Locus A-L was amplified by PCR and PCR products were sequenced. The sequences obtained were edited ma­nually and aligned using Gene Runner software. With sequencing of PCR products a reliable genetic diversity in size, number and posi­tion of the repeat units were observed among the Iranian E. dispar isolates in locus A-L gene. Se­quences showed variation in length from 448bp to 507bp and seven distinct types were identified. The genetic diversity of loci like A-L shows them to be suitable for epidemiological studies such as the characterization of the routes of transmission of these parasites in Iran.