Molecular markers of antimalarial drug resistance in pfk13, pfmdr1, pfdhfr, and pfdhps genes of Plasmodium falciparum in a rural municipality in Cubal, Benguela Province, Angola (2022–2023)

This study provides an updated molecular profile of antimalarial resistance in a rural area of Angola. No validated or candidate pfk13 markers of artemisinin resistance were identified. However, the predominance of pfmdr1 haplotypes linked to reduced lumefantrine susceptibility raises concerns regarding AL efficacy. Although SP remains suitable for IPTp, the presence of the "fully resistant" haplotype (IRNGE) of pfdhfr/pfdhps highlight potential risks to long-term effectiveness. These findings reinforce the need for integrated molecular surveillance and periodic therapeutic efficacy studies to guide malaria control policies in rural Angola.