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A PCR based assay for detection and differentiation of African trypanosome species in blood.

A, Cox; A, Tilley; F, McOdimba; J, Fyfe; M, Eisler; G, Hide; S, Welburn

Authors

Cox A

Tilley A

McOdimba F

Fyfe J

Eisler M

Welburn S



Abstract

Direct PCR analysis of trypanosome infected blood samples in the quantities required for large scale epidemiological study has always been problematic. Current methods for identifying and differentiating trypanosomes typically require several species-specific reactions, many of which rely on mouse passaged samples to obtain quality concentrated genomic DNA. As a consequence important epidemiological information may be lost during the sample preparation stage. Here, we report a PCR methodology that reduces processing and improves on the sensitivity of present screening methods. The PCR technique targets the gene encoding the small ribosomal subunit in order to identify and differentiate all clinically important African trypanosome species and some subspecies. The method is more economical, simple, and sensitive than current screening methods, and yields more detailed information, thereby making it a viable tool for large-scale epidemiological studies.

Citation

A, C., A, T., F, M., J, F., M, E., G, H., & S, W. (2005). A PCR based assay for detection and differentiation of African trypanosome species in blood. Experimental Parasitology, 111(1), 24-29. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.exppara.2005.03.014

Journal Article Type Article
Online Publication Date Apr 29, 2005
Publication Date 2005-09
Deposit Date Apr 9, 2024
Print ISSN 0014-4894
Publisher Elsevier
Peer Reviewed Peer Reviewed
Volume 111
Issue 1
Pages 24-29
DOI https://doi.org/10.1016/j.exppara.2005.03.014
PMID 16054487