A highly sensitive DNA bead-based suspension array for the detection and species identification of bovine piroplasms

► Piroplasmosis, caused by parasites of the genera Theileria and Babesia, is among the most serious diseases affecting cattle. ► A multiplex DNA bead-based suspension Luminex array was developed for the detection and identification of bovine piroplasms. ► The assay provided high discrimination and high-throughput potential and was more sensitive than other available methods. ► This method could substantially improve the detection of piroplasm carriers and facilitate preventive control programs.