Molecular Epidemiology of Equine Piroplasmosis

Equine piroplasmosis is a globally significant tick-borne disease caused primarily by two haemo-parasites, Theileria equi and Babesia caballi. Molecular epidemiology integrates genetic, serological and vector data to map transmission dynamics and characterise parasite diversity. Theileria equi often establishes life-long infections in equids, whereas Babesia caballi may be cleared over time; both can persist at subclinical levels, complicating detection and control. Advanced molecular methods, including real-time polymerase chain reaction and high-throughput sequencing, have revealed marked regional variation in parasite prevalence, genotype distribution and rates of co-infection. These approaches identify risk factors linked to climate, vector ecology and host demographics, underpinning targeted surveillance and informing biosecurity measures for the movement of horses across endemic and non-endemic zones. Integration of serological screening with molecular diagnostics enhances sensitivity and specificity in herd-level surveys, while genotyping tools enable source tracking of outbreaks. Together, these insights guide control strategies, support vaccine development and inform policy decisions to protect equine health and facilitate international trade.

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Molecular Epidemiology of Equine Piroplasmosis publication trend

The graph below shows the total number of articles in molecular epidemiology of equine piroplasmosis across all publications each year (not limited to Nature Index journals).

Technical terms

Apicomplexan parasites: Single-celled, obligate intracellular organisms that include Theileria and Babesia species.

Polymerase chain reaction (PCR): A molecular technique that amplifies specific DNA fragments to detect low-level infections.

Serological assay: A test that detects host antibodies against parasite antigens, indicating current or past exposure.

Genotype: The genetic makeup of a parasite strain, often defined by sequence variation in key genes.

Vector ecology: The study of tick species distribution, biology and their role in pathogen transmission.

Molecular epidemiology: An interdisciplinary approach combining genetic, serological and ecological data to track disease spread and diversity.

References

1. Molecular and Serological Detection of Vector-Borne Pathogens Responsible for Equine Piroplasmosis in Europe between 2008 and 2021. Microorganisms (2024).
2. In vitro evaluation of the automated hematology analyzer XN-31 for rapid diagnosis of equine piroplasmosis. Microbiology Spectrum (2024).
3. Development and evaluation of specific polymerase chain reaction assays for detecting Theileria equi genotypes. Parasites & Vectors (2023).