Detection of caprine malaria parasite using PCR diagnostic assay targeting cytochrome b oxidase (cytb) gene

Malaria parasites in ungulates, such as Plasmodium in goats, are not sufficiently comprehended, despite their potential importance in epidemiology. This research focused on the detection and characterization of Plasmodium in goats from malaria-endemic areas of Indonesia through a nested PCR assay that targets the cytochrome b oxidase (cytb) gene. A total of 333 blood samples were collected from goats and sheep across five locations and analyzed using microscopy and molecular techniques. No parasites were observed microscopically; however, PCR analysis identified Plasmodium in seven goats, four from Sumba Barat Daya and three from Girimulyo, resulting in an overall prevalence of 2.99% (95% CI: 0.82–7.47). Statistical analysis indicated no significant correlation between infection and sex (p > 0.05). Phylogenetic analysis and pairwise nucleotide identity revealed a significant genetic relationship between Plasmodium isolates from Indonesia and P. bubalis type 1 from Thailand, with a 99.86% identity, indicating potential co-evolution within shared ecological niches. The findings present the initial molecular evidence of Plasmodium infection in goats within Indonesia and underscore the
significance of molecular methodologies for identifying low-level infections. Additional research involving larger sample sizes and wider geographic representation is necessary to elucidate the epidemiology, genetic diversity, and transmission dynamics of ungulate malaria parasites