Leishmania parasite genetics. Western blot genetic analysis of the cpa and cpb genes of the protozoan parasite (Leishmania sp.) that is transmitted by the bite of sandflies. The cpa gene, which may be unique to the parasite, is being investigated in order to develop a 'DNA vaccine' to protect against this parasite. The banding pattern is specific to each gene. The cpa and cpb genes carry instructions for producing the enzymes cysteine proteinase a and b. The genes are intended to be injected into humans to make the enzymes and provoke an immune response to protect against Leishmania parasites. Analysis done at the Pasteur Institute, Tehran, Iran, in 2002 by Dr S. Rafati.