Molecular and biochemical methods for parasite differentiation within the genus Trichinella

Delineation of the genus Trichinella into a more complex group of parasites has substantially motivated investigators to better identify and character ize the species and genotypes that form the basis of their investigations. Because of the cosmopolitan geographical distribution and broad host range that typify this genus, assigning unique biological, immunological and bioc hemical characters to each species and genotype has been essential for rese archers to further advance this field. Numerous groups have developed simpl e methods to differentiate the genotypes, and by so doing, have generated d iagnostic keys that accurately reflect the distinct differences among paras ites of this group. Throughout the years, many methods have been used to ac complish this task, beginning with isoenzyme analyses and the use of repeti tive DNA probes, to employing the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and more state-of-the-art technologies. This review article summarizes the developme nt of these methods with emphasis on molecular techniques and the ultimate goal of providing a simple, rapid and reproducible test to differentiate Tr ichinella parasites at the highest level of sensitivity, i.e. single parasi te. Published by Elsevier Science B.V.