Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
The role of molecular biology in veterinary parasitology.
- Journal:
- Veterinary parasitology
- Year:
- 2001
- Authors:
- Prichard, R & Tait, A
- Affiliation:
- Institute of Parasitology · Canada
Plain-English summary
Recent advances in molecular biology are making a big difference in how we understand and manage parasites that affect animals. By sequencing the complete DNA of certain parasites, researchers can identify them more accurately and develop better ways to diagnose and treat infections. New techniques are being created that will allow for quick testing of specific types of parasites, which can help in both diagnosis and tracking outbreaks. Additionally, the information gained from these studies can lead to improved vaccines and treatments, especially as we learn more about how some parasites become resistant to medications. Overall, these developments offer hope for better control of parasitic diseases in pets and livestock.
Abstract
The tools of molecular biology are increasingly relevant to veterinary parasitology. The sequencing of the complete genomes of Caenorhabditis elegans and other helminths and protozoa is allowing great advances in studying the biology, and improving diagnosis and control of parasites. Unique DNA sequences provide very high levels of specificity for the diagnosis and identification of parasite species and strains, and PCR allows extremely high levels of sensitivity. New techniques, such as the use of uniquely designed molecular beacons and DNA microarrays will eventually allow rapid screening for specific parasite genotypes and assist in diagnostic and epidemiological studies of veterinary parasites. The ability to use genome data to clone and sequence genes which when expressed will provide antigens for vaccine screening and receptors and enzymes for mechanism-based chemotherapy screening will increase our options for parasite control. In addition, DNA vaccines can have desirable characteristics, such as sustained stimulation of the host immune system compared with protein based vaccines. One of the greatest threats to parasite control has been the development of drug resistance in parasites. Our knowledge of the basis of drug resistance and our ability to monitor its development with highly sensitive and specific DNA-based assays for 'resistance'-alleles will help maintain the effectiveness of existing antiparasitic drugs and provide hope that we can maintain control of parasitic disease outbreaks.
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Search related cases →Original publication: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11516585/