Detection of chronic toxoplasmosis in the brain of mice using loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) and conventional PCR.

Background: Toxoplasma gondii is a common protozoan parasite that infects approximately one-third of the world's population. It is a disease with multiple manifestations. In immunocompetent individuals, symptoms are mild and flu-like, whereas, in immunocompromised patients, it often results in severe morbidity and mortality.

Validation of dried blood spots in monitoring toxoplasmosis.

Due to the growing importance of toxoplasmosis worldwide, simple methods of diagnosis are important for epidemiologic studies. Dried blood spot (DBS) is a useful tool that surpasses venipuncture. DBS- testing via a finger-stick could also be used in setting where phlebotomies might not be feasible, such as worldwide prenatal and newborn screening for congenital toxoplasmosis.

Loop mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) of Toxoplasma DNA from dried blood spots.

Introduction: The cosmopolitan protozoan Toxoplasma gondii is a major parasite of warm-blooded animals including man. Early and accurate diagnosis is a must for proper treatment that prevents life threatening sequels. Loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) is a novel technique that can amplify DNA with high sensitivity and specificity under isothermal conditions.