Multiplex polymerase chain reaction for distinguishing Taylorella equigenitalis from Taylorella equigenitalis-like organisms.

The research is about the development of a Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) test which can differentiate between two similar microorganisms; Taylorella equigenitalis that causes severe disease in equines and a similar organism that doesn’t cause disease.

Introduction to the Study

• The study revolves around trying to differentiate between Taylorella equigenitalis and a similar but harmless microorganism.
• Taylorella equigenitalis is known to cause contagious equine metritis, a severe disease of the reproductive tract in horses, whereas the Taylorella equigenitalis-like organism does not produce any disease, despite being contagious.
• Correctly distinguishing between these two organisms is economically crucial as the former can lead to severe repercussions if not treated properly in time.
• Therefore, the researchers have developed a new PCR-based assay to do just that.

Development of the PCR-based Assay

• This PCR-based assay helps distinguish Taylorella equigenitalis from the similar non-disease causing microorganism.
• The primers used in the PCR assay were developed to amplify unique regions of the gene that encodes the 16S ribosomal RNA.
• By amplifying these specific regions, the scientists could clearly distinguish between the two organisms as they would have differing genetic sequences in those areas.

Significance of the Research

• Having this type of a targeted PCR-assay test allows for early detection of the pathogenic Taylorella equigenitalis in horses, leading to timely treatment and preventing further spread.
• It is also significant for avoiding unnecessary treatment when the organism present is not Taylorella equigenitalis but the similar non-disease causing microorganism.
• This definitive assay brings financial benefits since targeted treatments are more cost-effective than broad-spectrum ones, and it also helps in controlling contagious equine metritis.