Using loop-mediated isothermal amplification combined with gold nanoparticles for optically rapid detection of shrimp Vibrio parahaemolyticus

Shrimp is one of the most important aquatic products in the world. Early detection, prevention, and treatment of shrimp pathogens is important. One major shrimp pathogen, Vibrio parahaemolyticus causes acute hepatopancreatic necrosis disease (VP_AHPND) has been studied, but research into pathogen detection needs to be strengthened. Therefore, we were targeting to VP_AHPND and using emerging molecular biotechnologies to develop a method for pathogens detection for the shrimp industry. Gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) have an unique color change property. Free AuNPs in solution are the color of claret-red, while the aggregated AuNPs appear slight purple. Based on the characteristics of visible color difference of AuNPs, we worked on establishing a simple, fast, and specific loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) detection method for VP_AHPND diagnosis using AuNPs. This method, amplified the target DNA of VP_AHPND by LAMP and the DNA were directly added onto AuNPs solution for detection. The test results show a color change, so that the results can be visually inspected by naked eye. Using the methods, shrimp VP_AHPND can be early detected and treated, boost the economic benefits, and efficiency of shrimp farming.