Species-specific PCR assay for the detection of Babesia odocoilei. (November 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Burgess, Hilary J.; Lockerbie, Betty P.; Ayalew, Lisanework E.; Dibernardo, Antonia; Hrazdilová, Kristýna; Modry, David; Bollinger, Trent K.
• Is Part Of: Journal of veterinary diagnostic investigation. Volume 33:Number 6(2021)
• Page Start: 1188
• Page End: 1192
• Publication Date: 2021-11
• Subjects: Babesia odocoilei -- cervids -- PCR -- specificity; Veterinary medicine -- Diagnosis -- Periodicals; 636.0896075
• DOI: 10.1177/10406387211032927
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1040-6387

Abstract

We developed a PCR assay for the detection of Babesia odocoilei based on the 18S rRNA gene. Multiple specimens of B. odocoilei were examined, and the assay consistently produced a small specific PCR product of 306 bp. The PCR assay was also challenged with DNA from 13 other Babesia species and 2 Theileria species, originating from 10 different host species; however, nonspecific DNA amplification and multiple banding patterns were observed, and the amplicon banding patterns varied between different isolates of the same species. Sensitivity was determined to be 6.4 pg of DNA, and an estimated 0.0001% parasitism. This assay can be utilized for species-specific differential detection of B. odocoilei .