Review on LAMP and its utilizing for the diagnosis of haemoprotozoan diseases in livestock and companion animals

Abstract

Haemoprotozoan infections, caused by protozoan parasites such as Trypanosoma, Theileria, Babesia, and Hepatozoon species, are of significant veterinary importance due to their economic impact on livestock and companion animals. Accurate and rapid diagnosis is critical for effective disease management and control. Traditional diagnostic methods, including microscopy and polymerase chain reaction (PCR), have limitations such as low sensitivity, time consumption, requirement for skilled personnel, and the need for sophisticated laboratory infrastructure. Loop-Mediated Isothermal Amplification (LAMP) has emerged as a highly sensitive, specific, rapid, and cost-effective molecular diagnostic tool. LAMP amplifies target DNA under isothermal conditions using Bst DNA polymerase and a set of specifically designed primers, enabling visual detection through colorimetric dyes, turbidity, or fluorescence without the need for expensive equipment. This technique has been successfully applied for the detection of Trypanosoma evansi, Theileria annulata, Babesia spp., Babesia gibsoni, and Hepatozoon canis in field samples, demonstrating higher sensitivity and specificity compared to conventional methods. LAMP offers a simple, field-deployable, and reliable diagnostic approach suitable for early detection, epidemiological studies, and disease control programs, particularly in resource-limited settings. Its rapidity, ease of use, and adaptability position LAMP as a promising tool for improving animal health and productivity.