Application of Molecular and Serological Diagnostics in Veterinary Parasitology

Abstract

The authors present an update of the molecular and serological techniques used in veterinary parasitology. The application of molecular and serological techniques in veterinary parasitology is increasing worldwide. Several new molecular techniques have been made available for sensitive and specific diagnosis of parasitic diseases. These tests may be either nucleic acid or protein based assays. In nucleic acid based assays, PCR and its variants such as nested PCR, multiplex PCR are the most frequently used tools. The parasitic nucleic acid target sequences are DNA and ribosomal RNA. The DNA sequences provide high specificity for the identification of parasite in biological samples. Real-Time PCR is also increasingly in use since its cost is decreasing. Some other tests such as RAPD, AFLP and RFLP are also used for several parasitic disease diagnoses. Moreover now, complete genome sequencing of many of parasites has been achieved. The complete genome data also provides suitable gene sequence which, when cloned and expressed provides antigens for diagnosis and vaccine preparation. Similarly, protein based serological assays such as ELISA, dot-ELISA, Fluorescence antibody tests have also been used for parasitic diagnosis. However, the use of molecular tools in veterinary parasitology remains restricted to research rather than use in field as diagnostic tool.