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Published on: October 5, 2017
PCR-based differentiation of Fasciola species (Trematoda: Fasciolidae), using primers based on RAPD-derived sequences
J W McGarry1, P L Ortiz, J E Hodgkinson
1Veterinary Parasitology Research Group, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Pembroke Place, Liverpool L3 5QA, UK. j.w.mcgarry@liv.ac.uk
Annals of Tropical Medicine and Parasitology
|June 7, 2007
Summary
Accurate identification of liver flukes Fasciola hepatica and Fasciola gigantica is crucial. New PCR methods reliably distinguish these zoonotic parasites, overcoming limitations of traditional techniques.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary parasitology
- Molecular diagnostics
- Zoonotic disease research
Background:
- Fasciola hepatica and Fasciola gigantica are zoonotic liver flukes with overlapping geographical distribution.
- Traditional methods for distinguishing Fasciola species, such as morpho-anatomy, are unreliable.
- Existing molecular or biochemical methods are time-consuming and require specialized expertise.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and validate a reliable molecular method for differentiating Fasciola hepatica and Fasciola gigantica.
- To provide a more accessible diagnostic tool for researchers and veterinarians.
Main Methods:
- Development of two primer sets based on RAPD-derived sequences for polymerase chain reaction (PCR).
- Application of PCR assays to distinguish between F. hepatica and F. gigantica.
- Validation of the PCR method using morpho-anatomically identified fluke samples and a larger collection of 175 flukes.
Main Results:
- The developed PCR assays accurately identified Fasciola species in all tested samples.
- The molecular method successfully distinguished between F. hepatica and F. gigantica, including samples from diverse geographical origins.
- Validation confirmed the reliability of the PCR technique across a significant sample size and collection period.
Conclusions:
- PCR-based molecular assays offer a reliable and efficient alternative to traditional methods for Fasciola species identification.
- This diagnostic tool can aid in understanding parasite transmission dynamics and implementing effective control strategies for fascioliasis.
