Next-generation molecular tools in veterinary parasitology: advances, challenges, and perspectives in the diagnosis of emerging parasites

Abstract

Abstract Advances in molecular technologies have revolutionized veterinary parasitology, providing highly sensitive and specific tools for the detection, characterization, and surveillance of parasites in domestic and wildlife species. Approaches such as next-generation sequencing, metabarcoding, and metagenomics have significantly enhanced the ability to identify previously unknown or uncultivable species, detect complex coinfections, and deepen our understanding of parasite genetic diversity, evolution, and population dynamics. Beyond their impact on laboratory diagnostics, these tools have proven essential for the early detection of zoonoses, environmental monitoring, and the development of integrated surveillance systems under the One Health framework. This review synthesizes the major technological advances and their practical applications in both global and Latin American contexts, particularly Brazilian, highlighting how the incorporation of these tools has the potential to transform strategies for surveillance, prevention, and response to emerging and re-emerging parasitic diseases. Challenges related to standardization, cost, infrastructure, and technology transfer are also discussed, along with future perspectives for large-scale implementation aimed at strengthening diagnostic capacity and epidemiological surveillance in the face of increasing parasitic threats in a rapidly changing world.