Genotyping of Plasmodium falciparum isolates by the polymerase chain reaction and potential uses in epidemiological studies.

The epidemiology of malaria results from the interactions of three gene pools--parasite, human, and mosquito vector--with one another and with their environment. Methods are being developed for characterizing the genetics of human populations at risk and of potential vectors. The characterization of natural populations of Plasmodium and knowledge of their distribution within the human and insect hosts in any given area under study would also greatly enhance understanding of the epidemiology, pathology and biology of this parasite, particularly when combined with simultaneous human and vector studies.