Development of multiplex PCR for identification of Clostridium chauvoei and Clostridium septicum

Abstract

A multiplex PCR to detect the gene encoding the flagellin of Clostridium chauvoei and the gene encoding the Clostridium septicum alpha toxin from pure cultures was developed. Specific primers were used for genes encoding for Clostridium chauvoei flagellin (516 bp) and Clostridium septicum alpha toxin (270 bp). The strains of Clostridium septicum and Clostridium chauvoei were detected by multiplex PCR amplification. The expected products of 516 bp and 270 bp respectively were observed. There were no cross-reactions between Clostridium septicum and Clostridium chauvoei or with other clostridial species studied. The multiplex PCR was efficient to detect Clostridium septicum and Clostridium chauvoei separately and together.