ABSTRACT
The genus Taenia encompasses a large group of parasitic tapeworms that undergo three distinct stages of development, namely adult worm, eggs, and larva/metacestode during their life cycles and require two mammalian hosts, namely a carnivorous/omnivorous definitive host and a herbivorous/omnivorous intermediate host for transmission. Identification of Taenia species, namely Taenia saginata, Taenia asiatica, and Taenia solium in the definitive host has traditionally relied on microscopic detection of eggs or proglottids in feces. However, this approach lacks desired sensitivity and specificity given that the eggs from different Taenia species are morphologically indistinguishable. Utilization of molecular methods targeting various gene regions of Taenia species has greatly enhanced the diagnosis of taeniasis and cysticercosis. As humans act as the only definitive host for Taenia solium, Taenia saginata, and Taenia asiatica, use of laboratory models is not only necessary but also important in helping elucidate the pathogenesis, host–parasite relationship, and other related issues concerning taeniasis and cysticercosis.
