Can PCR distinguish viable M. hyopneumoniae from residual DNA?
An mRNA-targeting PCR may better reflect M. hyopneumoniae viability than conventional DNA PCR, particularly near the end of elimination programs.
An mRNA-targeting PCR may better reflect M. hyopneumoniae viability than conventional DNA PCR, particularly near the end of elimination programs.
Problem: DNA PCR may remain positive after M. hyopneumoniae has died, complicating interpretation during elimination programs.
Methods: Researchers compared an mRNA-targeting PCR with DNA PCR after different bacterial inactivation methods and during in-vitro growth.
1. RNA-based PCR primarily detected viable or very recently inactivated organisms.
2. DNA-based PCR continued detecting M. hyopneumoniae regardless of viability.
3. Changes in growth activity over time were observable with RNA PCR, supporting its potential for assessing bacterial clearance late in elimination programs.
Original publication
Canturri A, Galina-Pantoja L, Vonnahme K, Pieters M. Detection of Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae viability using a PCR-based assay. Veterinary Microbiology. 2024, 292:110058.