Fingerprint of Biomphalaria arabica, the intermediate host of Schistosoma mansoni in Saudi Arabia, using RAPD-PCR.

In the time schistosomisis control programs are implemented in many countries, schistosomiasis continues to spread throughout the world. Among these control strategies is the vector control. Within this context, analysis of the genetic variability of the intermediate host snails is important because it allows identification of specific sequences of the genome of this mollusk related to determine their fingerprint. We investigated Biomphalaria arabica, which is found in Saudi Arabia, the intermediate host of Schistosoma mansoni infection. Genetic fingerprint was studied by RAPD-PCR using our own different random primers as well as published primers. The electrophoretic patterns resulting from amplification showed specific polymorphic markers of B. arabica. This information will be helpful in the identification of the snails and demonstrating that RAPD-PCR is an appropriate and efficient methodological approach for establishment of genetic barcode development.