The detection of tuberculosis by loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) combined with a lateral flow dipstick

Abstract

Tuberculosis (TB) is an airborne infectious disease caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium Tuberculosis (MTB) and is a persistent problem in developing countries. Present methods for its detection include normal or nested Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) followed by electrophoresis, real-time PCR, Ziehl- Neelsen staining, and culture assay. These techniques entail various disadvantages such as high cost, long assay time and use of toxic substances. Novel loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) permits DNA to be amplified rapidly under constant temperature. The combination of LAMP and chromatographic Lateral Flow Dipstick (LAMP-LFD) by using biotinylated LAMP amplicon hybridized with Fluorescein Isothiocyanate (FITC)-labeled probes are allowed to detect MTB without electrophoresis and interpreted within 3-5 min. LAMP-LFD is as highly sensitive as PCR-electrophoresis method. Based on its sensitivity, specificity, rapidity, cost effectiveness, ease of use, and convenience, LAMP-LFD could be suitable for use in early MTB detection. © 2015 by IGI Global. All rights reserved.