MOLECULAR SURVEILLANCE OF EMERGING VIRUSES IN WILDLIFE USING BIOMEDICAL-BASED DIAGNOSTIC STRATEGIES

Abstract

The emergence and reemergence of viruses with pathogenic potential for humans have been closely linked to wildlife, which serves as a natural reservoir for a wide range of viral agents. In this context, molecular surveillance has become a strategic approach for early detection, genetic characterization, and monitoring of viral circulation in animal populations, supporting the prevention of interspecies spillover events. Diagnostic strategies based on biomedicine have significantly enhanced the ability to identify emerging viruses, even in the absence of evident clinical signs in wildlife hosts. Molecular approaches applied in viral surveillance include nucleic acid amplification techniques, sequencing methods, and bioinformatic analyses, enabling the detection of viral genetic material with high sensitivity and specificity. These tools allow not only the identification of previously known agents but also the recognition of genetic variants and novel viruses. The integration of molecular diagnostics with phylogenetic analysis and epidemiological data provides a more comprehensive understanding of viral circulation patterns and the environmental factors influencing their spread.The implementation of these strategies in wildlife surveillance presents important challenges, such as the wide diversity of sampled species, viral genetic variability, and logistical constraints associated with fieldwork. Nevertheless, recent advances in biomedicine have facilitated the development of faster, more sensitive, and adaptable diagnostic methods suitable for different ecological settings. In addition, molecular surveillance contributes to the establishment of genetic databases that support public health actions and inform environmental conservation policies. Therefore, molecular surveillance of emerging viruses in wildlife, grounded in biomedical diagnostic strategies, represents a critical component of an integrated health approach. By enabling early risk identification and improving preparedness, this surveillance framework strengthens the capacity to respond effectively to potential viral emergencies.