Sequence polymorphism in the Trypanosoma rangeli HSP70 coding genes allows typing of the parasite KP1(+) and KP1(−) groups

[Display omitted] ► HSP70 genes were characterized in KP1(+) and KP1(−) Trypanosoma rangeli isolates. ► Genomic organization of HSP70 genes are highly conserved among trypanosomatids. ► T. rangeli HSP70 sequences showed allelic and inter-isolate GMPG polymorphisms. ► HSP70 SphI restriction polymorphism differentiates between the KP1 T. rangeli groups. The genes encoding the Trypanosoma rangeli heat shock protein 70kDa were sequenced and their genomic organization determined. This human parasite has medical relevance as it shares antigens, hosts and geographical regions with the etiological agent of Chagas’ disease, Trypanosoma cruzi. The T. rangeli HSP70 genes are highly conserved regarding their tandem organization, and deduced amino acid sequences among T. rangeli KP1(+) and KP1(−) groups and other trypanosomatids. Nevertheless, a variable number of the immunogenic GMPG motif was observed among HSP70 copies within the same T. rangeli isolate and among different isolates. Interestingly, a polymorphism at nucleotide level affecting the SphI restriction site allowed the differentiation of KP1(−) and KP1(+) groups.