A multiplex PCR assay for the simultaneous detection and discrimination of the seven Eimeria species that infect domestic fowl

Parasitology. 2003 Oct;127(Pt 4):317-25. doi: 10.1017/s0031182003003883.

Abstract

This study reports the development of a novel multiplex PCR assay based on SCAR (Sequence-Characterised Amplified Region) markers for the simultaneous diagnosis of the 7 Eimeria species that infect domestic fowl. Primer pairs specific for each species were designed in order to generate a ladder of amplification products ranging from 200 to 811 bp. Sensitivity tests for each species were carried out, showing a detection threshold of 1-5 pg, which corresponds approximately to 2-8 sporulated oocysts. Distinct isolates of the 7 Eimeria species from different geographical sources were tested and successfully detected by the assay. All the species were amplified homogeneously, whether or not one of them was present in a high quantity, indicating that there was no cross-interference. The assay was also tested with different sources of Taq DNA polymerase and thermocycler models, confirming the high reproducibility of the reaction. The economy of consumables and labour represented by a single-tube reaction greatly facilitates the molecular diagnosis of a large number of samples, making it appropriate for field epizootiological surveys. We propose the use of this multiplex PCR assay as a rapid and cost-effective diagnostic method for the detection and discrimination of the 7 Eimeria species that infect domestic fowl.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Chickens*
  • Coccidiosis / diagnosis
  • Coccidiosis / parasitology
  • Coccidiosis / veterinary*
  • DNA, Protozoan / chemistry
  • DNA, Protozoan / genetics
  • Eimeria / genetics*
  • Eimeria / growth & development
  • Genetic Markers
  • Genetic Variation
  • Polymerase Chain Reaction / instrumentation
  • Polymerase Chain Reaction / methods
  • Polymerase Chain Reaction / veterinary*
  • Poultry Diseases / parasitology*
  • Random Amplified Polymorphic DNA Technique / veterinary
  • Reproducibility of Results
  • Sensitivity and Specificity

Substances

  • DNA, Protozoan
  • Genetic Markers