Evaluation of LACK Gene Diversity in Leishmania major Using PCR and Sequencing Methods

[Background]Cutaneous leishmaniasis is one of the most important tropical diseases in many parts of the world caused by two main species of parasites including Leishmania major and L. tropica in the old world. Several attempts have been made to reach an effective and reliable vaccine against the disease with a spectrum of success. Selection of an effective target for vaccination needs to recognize a protein antigen with minor diversity. Leishmania activated C kinase (LACK) antigen is one of the good targets for this purpose that needs to be evaluated for its diversity in local study areas.[Objectives]This study was conducted to evaluate the diversity in LACK protein among L. major species.[Methods]We collected 30 L. major isolates from different parts of Khuzestan province, southwest of Iran. Leishmania activated C kinase gene was selected for amplifying by PCR and sequencing.[Results]Phylogenetic tree showed that there is no diversity in LACK gene in this area.[Conclusions]Leishmania activated C kinase gene is a very conservative gene, suitable for vaccination.