Molecular typing of Trichomonas vaginalis with PCR-RFLP (Restriction fragment length polymorhism) by using actin gene region

Trichomonas vaginalis is the agent pathogen of Trichomoniasis, a sexually transmitted disease that can cause asymptomatic or symptomatic vaginitis and cervisitis. In pregnancy, T. vaginalis infection may result in complications such as, premature rupture of membranes, preterm labor or low birth weight. It also can fascilitate the transmission of other sexually transmitted disease agents including HIV. Although T. vaginalis is common, its properties like genetic variability, virulence or drug resistancy are not completely understood. Genotypic differences of the parasite are assumed regarding its proteins, polysaccharides and isoenzyme profile, but studies on understanding biological differences such as virulence could not have been totally accomplished. In this study, T. vaginalis isolates were processed with PCR-RFLP technique using actin gene site and molecular typing of the parasite was aimed. Twenty T. vaginalis isolates (which were isolated and cryopreserved before) were used and two major genotypes were determined. This is the first study on this subject with PCR-RFLP method by using actin gene and further studies are needed in order to define geographical differences.