PCR-RFLP and genetic diversity in Anopheles coluzzii populations in Benin (West Africa)

Abstract

Knowledge of the genetic diversity of species is necessary to better develop programs for the management of living resources. Molecular polymorphism in Anopheles coluzzii is of interest in that the gene pool certainly offers its populations the possibility of colonizing extremely different environments in Africa and elsewhere. To better understand the mechanisms underlying the spectacular adaptation observed in this vector, it is imperative to have a perfect mastery of the biology and ecology of these organisms and to identify the genetics of its populations. To this end, several methodological and analytical approaches have been used using the Kdr gene. They were completed by the study of molecular diversity using PCR-RFLP of intron 1 and exon 32-33 of the same marker. Populations of this species showed a heterozygous deficiency. Enzyme digestion revealed monomorphism even though some cases of diversity were observed.