Molecular detection of anthrax spores on animal fibres

AIMS: To develop a rapid, specific and sensitive diagnostic test for the detection of the spores of Bacillus anthracis on commercial samples of animal fibres (e.g. wool and cashmere). METHODS AND RESULTS: Extraction of DNA from spores using a mechanical disruption method based on bead beating was evaluated but subsequently abandoned as it compromised the sensitivity of the overall protocol. A multiplex PCR and two nested amplification reactions designed for B. anthracis were developed during this study. CONCLUSIONS: A simple selective incubation step in combination with multiplex PCR was found to be more effective than generic DNA extraction coupled to a sensitive nested amplification reaction. SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF THE STUDY: The rapid diagnostic test could be applied to the analysis of commercial fibre samples for the detection of anthrax as required by health and safety legislation resulting in considerable savings in time and expense.