Exploring the transformative power of molecular biology methods in veterinary science through DNA analysis, PCR, and next-generation sequencing.
Imagine a future where veterinarians can accurately diagnose diseases, determine their causes, and prescribe the most effective treatment even before the first symptoms appear. Molecular biology research methods are turning this future into reality in veterinary sciences. They allow us to look at the very foundation of life—at the level of DNA and RNA—to unravel the most complex mysteries of animal diseases.
Genetic analysis, PCR testing, and next-generation sequencing have opened up completely new possibilities for scientists and practitioners to combat infectious diseases, hereditary pathologies, and oncological diseases in animals. These techniques not only improve diagnostic accuracy but also enable the development of targeted treatment and prevention strategies, saving the lives of countless animals each year.
Advanced genetic analysis enables precise identification of pathogens and genetic disorders in animals.
Polymerase chain reaction allows for rapid detection of infectious agents with high sensitivity and specificity.
Molecular biology methods are a set of research approaches aimed at studying biological processes at the molecular level. In veterinary medicine, they include analysis of nucleic acids (DNA and RNA) and proteins for disease diagnosis, studying their pathogens, and determining the genetic characteristics of organisms.
PCR (polymerase chain reaction) is undoubtedly the "gold standard" of molecular diagnostics. This method allows for the reproduction of millions of copies of a specific DNA region, even if the source material contains only a few molecules. In veterinary practice, PCR and its variant—real-time PCR—are actively used to detect pathogens of infectious diseases such as African swine fever, rabies, avian influenza, and many others 3 6 .
Ability to detect even a small amount of pathogen in the test material
Accurate identification of specific pathogens at the species or even strain level
Obtaining results in hours instead of days or weeks
Simultaneous analysis of a large number of samples
The key theoretical premise for the development of molecular methods in veterinary medicine has been the "One Health" concept, which recognizes the close interconnection between human health, animal health, and the environment. This concept has been reflected in numerous scientific events, particularly in conferences dedicated to controlling infectious animal diseases in the context of biological safety 5 .
In 2023, a group of Ukrainian scientists led by Maksym Shevchenko from the Bila Tserkva National Agrarian University conducted an important study of zoonotic strains of Staphylococcus spp. isolated from domestic animals in Ukraine 4 . This work clearly demonstrates how molecular biology methods allow solving complex problems in veterinary medicine.
Scientific significance of the obtained results lies in the fact that they comprehensively characterized for the first time the prevalence and properties of zoonotic staphylococci among animals in Ukraine at the molecular level. These data are important for developing effective strategies to combat antibiotic resistance—one of the most serious threats to modern veterinary medicine and medicine in general.
Modern molecular biology research in veterinary medicine would be impossible without specialized reagents and materials. Here are the main components of the "scientific toolkit":
Nutrient medium for cell culture cultivation. Used for growing cell cultures for virological studies 2 .
Identification of microorganisms. CHROMagar Orientation medium for isolation and identification of bacteria 3 .
Extraction of nucleic acids. Isolation of genetic material from samples for subsequent PCR diagnostics 3 .
Amplification of DNA regions. Detection of pathogens of infectious diseases (e.g., African swine fever, rabies) 3 .
Detection of specific proteins. Identification of antigens in enzyme immunoassay (ELISA) 3 .
Cleavage of DNA at specific sites. Molecular typing of microorganisms.
It is important to note that modern science strives to avoid the use of animals in research purposes where possible. An alternative to fetal bovine serum, whose production is associated with ethical problems, could be synthetic nutrient media or materials of human origin 2 . This aligns with the principles of 3R (Reduction, Replacement, Refinement), which propose reducing the number of animals in experiments, replacing them with alternative methods, and improving their living conditions 2 6 .
Molecular biology research methods are fundamentally changing modern veterinary science and practice. They allow not just stating the fact of disease, but understanding its molecular mechanisms, determining genetic predispositions, and developing targeted therapy. From diagnosing infectious diseases to combating antibiotic resistance—molecular approaches open new horizons for preserving animal health and food safety.
The future of veterinary medicine is undoubtedly connected with the further development of molecular technologies. The integration of these methods into the daily practice of veterinary physicians promises a revolution in the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of animal diseases, which will ultimately contribute to the implementation of the "One Health" concept for all humanity.