TitlePolymerase chain reaction detection of Pseudoloma neurophilia, a common microsporidian of zebrafish (Danio rerio) reared in research laboratories.
Publication TypeJournal Article
Year of Publication2006
AuthorsWhipps, CM, Kent, ML
JournalJ Am Assoc Lab Anim Sci
Volume45
Issue1
Pagination36-9
Date Published2006 Jan
ISSN1559-6109
KeywordsAnimals, DNA Primers, DNA, Ribosomal, Microsporidia, Microsporidiosis, Models, Animal, Polymerase Chain Reaction, Zebrafish
Abstract

One of the most prevalent pathogens found in zebrafish (Danio rerio) research facilities is the microsporidian parasite Pseudoloma neurophilia. Infections occur primarily in the spinal cord and are associated with emaciation and scoliotic changes. It is unclear why P. neurophilia is so widespread among research colonies, although transfer of infected animals and eggs between laboratories is a likely contributor. In addition to preventing the spread of this pathogen among facilities, it is desirable to have parasite-free fish for use in experiments. Therefore we have developed a polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-based diagnostic test for P. neurophilia. Compared with conventional diagnostic methods, PCR diagnosis is rapid, allows for screening of large numbers of fish, and can be applied to eggs, water filtrates, biofilms, and other samples. Using PCR primers specific to the small subunit ribosomal DNA of P. neurophilia, the test was consistently capable of detecting 10 spores per reaction and often as few as 0.1 spore per reaction, and it did not cross-react with other selected microsporidian species from fish. We recommend this PCR diagnostic assay for use by the research community to determine the presence (or absence) of P. neurophilia in colonies and for screening fish shipped between facilities, especially when parasite-free fish are required for experiments. Furthermore, we currently are using this PCR method to investigate the potential role of vertical transmission in the spread of P. neurophilia.

Alternate JournalJ Am Assoc Lab Anim Sci
PubMed ID16539333
PubMed Central IDPMC1435373
Grant ListR24 RR017386 / RR / NCRR NIH HHS / United States
5R24RR017386-03 / RR / NCRR NIH HHS / United States