Unraveling novel biomarkers in Indian post-kala-azar dermal leishmaniasis using proteomics

Recent years have seen a rise in the use of mass spectrometry (MS)-based methods in proteome profiling research. MS-based proteomics has been increasingly implemented in various disciplines to identify and quantify biomolecules in a variety of biological specimens. MS-based proteomics is increasingly being applied for biomarker discovery due to its high sensitivity and specificity making it superior to any other available technology. Post-kala-azar dermal leishmaniasis diagnosis is challenging due to the low parasite burden and its symptomatic resemblance with other diseases like vitiligo or leprosy. Therefore, it is imperative to identify promising biomarkers with translational utility. The development of point-of-care assays using these biomarkers holds considerable potential for successful case diagnosis and for the efficient implementation of the ongoing Kala Azar Elimination Program.