Abstract
INTRODUCTION:
This study aimed to develop a duplex endpoint PCR assay for rapid detection and differentiation of Leptospira strains.
METHODS:
Primers were designed to target the rrs (LG1/LG2) and ligB (LP1/LP2) genes to confirm the presence of the Leptospira genus and the pathogenic species, respectively.
RESULTS:
The assay showed 100% specificity against 17 Leptospira strains with a limit of detection of 23.1pg/µl of leptospiral DNA and sensitivity of 103 leptospires/ml in both spiked urine and water.
CONCLUSIONS:
Our duplex endpoint PCR assay is suitable for rapid early detection of Leptospira with high sensitivity and specificity.
Keywords:
Leptospira; Leptospirosis; Duplex endpoint; PCR