Rapid detection of pathogenic leptospires by lyophilized reagent-based Polymerase Chain Reaction
- Author:
Lee, S.V.*
;
Tai, E.S
;
Mutalib, A.R.
;
Khairani-Bejo, S.
;
Bahaman, A.R.
- Publication Type:Journal Article
- From:Tropical Biomedicine
2011;28(3):497-505
- CountryMalaysia
- Language:English
-
Abstract:
A simple and reliable tool for the early diagnosis of leptospirosis is urgently needed.
We report the development of a lyophilized reagent-based polymerase chain reaction (PCR)
assay targeting lipL32 gene, which is present only in pathogenic leptospires. To determine
the effectiveness of the newly developed assay in the early diagnosis of leptospirosis, the
sensitivity and specificity was evaluated. In simulated clinical samples, the assay was able
to detect 102 and 103 leptospires/ml in spiked urine and blood samples, respectively. In
experimentally infected animals, leptospiral DNA could be detected in blood and lung samples
as early as Day 1 post infection. This assay was also shown to be stable and remained
sensitive for up to five months at ambient temperature. Hence, this lyophilized reagent-based
PCR assay with high specificity, sensitivity and stability would provide a simple, rapid and
reliable method in diagnosing acute leptospirosis, especially in the field of veterinary medicine
- Full text:W020150615385535288463.pdf
