Molecular Characteristics and Genetic Diversity of from Sheep in Xinjiang, China.

INTRODUCTION

is a trematode infecting ruminants worldwide and occasionally affecting other animal species, including humans. It causes significant economic losses. Geographic distribution and patterns of infection must be considered before control and management measures are developed for this parasite. DNA molecular markers are useful for the identification of flukes and elucidation of their genetic evolution. Therefore, the population structure of was studied using this method in sheep in Xinjiang, China.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The molecular characteristics, genetic relationships within the population and dispersal patterns of isolates were analysed based on the and genes. The population structure of from three regions of Xinjiang was explored and a neutrality test was conducted.

RESULTS

The and genes have 21 and 42 variable sites, respectively, which can be classified into 34 and 33 haplotypes. Median-joining network and phylogenetic tree analyses showed that there was no significant variation in isolates between the three geographical regions. Analysis of variance revealed that the genetic variation of was mainly present within the populations. The neutrality test indicated that the populations were relatively stable but the Hami population may have undergone short-term expansion.

CONCLUSION

This study revealed for the first time the molecular characteristics, genetic diversity and dispersal patterns of isolates from sheep in Xinjiang, thus providing new insights into the genetic variation and haplotype diversity of from indigenous sheep.