A new molecular surveillance system for leishmaniasis

Area of Science:

• Tropical medicine
• Molecular diagnostics
• Parasitology

Background:

• Global efforts aim to control tropical diseases via improved interventions.
• Accurate and prompt diagnosis in endemic regions is crucial for program success.
• Rapid diagnostic tests (RDTs) are widely used for diagnosis in tropical countries.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the feasibility of reusing Leishmania RDT kits as a DNA source after initial diagnosis.
• To explore the potential of used RDTs as a tool for molecular surveillance and quality control.

Main Methods:

• A polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-based method was employed.
• Detection of Leishmania spp. minicircle kinetoplast DNA from used leishmaniasis RDT kits was performed.

Main Results:

• Leishmania spp. DNA was successfully extracted from used RDT kits.
• The extracted DNA can be utilized for downstream molecular applications.

Conclusions:

• Used Leishmania RDT kits can serve as a valuable DNA source.
• This approach offers a reliable and affordable tool for future leishmaniasis molecular surveillance.
• Repurposing RDTs can enhance diagnostic and monitoring strategies for tropical diseases.