Molecular and phylogenetic analysis of zoonotic Plasmodium in long-tailed macaques: insights from wildlife-human conflict zones in Selangor, Malaysia

A cross-sectional study was conducted to assess the prevalence, genetic diversity, and phylogenetic relationships of three zoonotic malaria parasites known as Plasmodium cynomolgi, P. inui, and P. knowlesi in long-tailed macaques (Macaca fascicularis) from wildlife-human conflict zones in Selangor,...

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Main Authors: Zamri, Safawati Zawani, Abdul Aziz, Nor Azlina, Mazlan, Mazlina, Saidu, Yaro Sallau, Zulhisam, Atiqah, Che-Amat, Azlan, Sipin, Quincie
Format: Article
Language:en
Published: Springer 2025
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Online Access:http://psasir.upm.edu.my/id/eprint/122489/1/122489.pdf
http://psasir.upm.edu.my/id/eprint/122489/
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s12639-025-01811-5?error=cookies_not_supported&code=c85dab5a-88e0-42f7-9bcf-3d403f9f860f
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Summary:A cross-sectional study was conducted to assess the prevalence, genetic diversity, and phylogenetic relationships of three zoonotic malaria parasites known as Plasmodium cynomolgi, P. inui, and P. knowlesi in long-tailed macaques (Macaca fascicularis) from wildlife-human conflict zones in Selangor, Malaysia. The study conducted between September 2022 and April 2023, involved N = 100 macaques culled as part of wildlife management programs in Petaling and Hulu Langat districts. Nested polymerase chain reaction (PCR) analysis revealed a prevalence of 24% for P. cynomolgi, 23% for P. inui, and 4% for P. knowlesi. Infection patterns included 51% single infections, 18% dual infections, and 2% triple infections. Phylogenetic analyses were performed using the Maximum Likelihood method with the Kimura 2-parameter model and 1,000 bootstrap replicates. Results identified major lineages (S-type and A-type) for all three Plasmodium species, providing insights into their evolutionary relationships and host-parasite interactions. The findings underscore the zoonotic potential of long-tailed macaques in wildlife-human conflict zones and emphasize the need for regular monitoring and surveillance to mitigate the public health risks associated with zoonotic malaria.