Optimization and comparative analysis of LAMP and PCR techniques for the detection of leptospiral DNA in Golden Syrian hamsters

This study optimized a loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) assay usingBFo isothermal DNA polymerase with different colorimetric indicators. LAMP was able to detect DNA from pathogenic and intermediate leptospires, while non-pathogenic leptospires and other non-leptospiral microorganisms were negative. LAMP assay combined with calcein showed a tenfold higher limit of detection (1  ng of leptospiral DNA per reaction) than LAMP combined with hydroxynaphthol blue or end-point PCRlipL32 (10  ng of DNA per reaction). Animal samples were collected from infected and non-infected Golden Syrian hamsters (Mesocricetus auratus) to evaluate and compare the performance of LAMP and PCR. These techniques showed a substantial agreement according to Cohen ’s kappa statistic, being both useful techniques for detecting leptospiral DNA in clinical samples. Overall, this study demonstrates that the LAMP assay is a sensitive, specific, rapid, and simple tool for the detection of leptospiral DNA. It has the potential to facilitate the diagnosis of leptos pirosis, particularly in low-income regions with limited diagnosis resources.
Source: Veterinary Research Communications - Category: Veterinary Research Source Type: research