Loop-Mediated Isothermal Amplification (LAMP): A Promising Tool for Rapid, Point-of-Care Diagnosis of Parasitic Diseases in low-income countries.

Abstract

Parasitic diseases pose a major burden throughout the globe, especially in low-income countries, which are disproportionately affected due to factors such as overpopulation, vector-control challenges, financial difficulties, etc. Because access to advanced diagnostic technologies is limited in low-income regions, early and accurate diagnosis, which is critical in preventing diseases from progressing to their fatal stages, is not possible. Methods such as polymerase chain reaction (PCR) are often impractical in such regions due to their complexity and high running costs. Loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) is a promising alternative diagnostic technology that amplifies and detects a specific DNA sequence from a sample. Its features, such as high sensitivity and specificity, affordability, simplicity and versatility, make it an attractive alternative for poorer countries. Moreover, LAMP operates under isothermal conditions, thereby reducing the need for expensive equipment. This review evaluates the applicability of LAMP to be used as an alternative POC diagnostic method for parasitic infections by comparing it with routinely used diagnostic methods. Furthermore, several emerging trends in LAMP technology, such as multiplex LAMP, reverse transcription LAMP, microfluidic chip-incorporated LAMP, digital LAMP, and single nucleotide polymorphism LAMP, are discussed, further illustrating the potential of improving the diagnostic accuracy and affordability of LAMP. The need for cost-effective and accurate diagnostic tools is critical, particularly in regions where parasitic diseases are most prevalent. LAMP represents a viable solution to reduce the burden of parasitic diseases through improved diagnostic capabilities.