Schistosome-derived microRNAs: promise, pitfalls and priorities for molecular diagnosis

In summary, although schistosome-derived microRNAs have demonstrated strong diagnostic potential across experimental and clinical settings, their impact remains limited by technological, infrastructural, and policy-related challenges, particularly in endemic regions. Future priorities should emphasize affordable, point-of-care diagnostic platforms, establishment of shared databases and international standards, and integration of molecular tools into national surveillance and elimination programs. Aligning technological innovation with accessibility and health equity will be crucial to transform schistosome miRNA biomarkers from laboratory findings into practical tools for global schistosomiasis control and elimination.