Next Generation Sequencing in Parasitic Disease Research: Applications and Advances

Abstract

The first complete genome of a free-living organism, Mycoplasma genitalium, was sequenced in 1995 using whole-genome shotgun sequencing, which eliminated the need for initial mapping. Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) has transformed Parasitology by enabling rapid, high-throughput analysis of DNA and RNA. NGS has become not only a cornerstone of modern molecular biology but also an indispensable tool in advancing the understanding and control of parasitic diseases. This review outlined the evolution of sequencing technologies and highlights the broad applications of NGS in parasitic disease research. Unlike traditional sequencing methods, NGS offers massive parallel sequencing, allowing for in-depth studies of parasite genomes, gene expression, and drug resistance. With platforms like Illumina, SMRT, and Oxford Nanopore, NGS supports whole-genome and transcriptome sequencing, enhancing diagnostics, vaccine development, and surveillance of parasitic diseases. The insights of the study lay a robust foundation for advanced molecular explorations in parasite biology. It represents a transformative tool in the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of parasitic infections in both human and veterinary medicine.