A one-step multiplex PCR-based assay for simultaneous detection and classification of virulence factors to identify five diarrheagenic pathotypes.

Human diarrhea-causing strains of are referred to as diarrheagenic (DEC). DEC can be divided into five main categories based on distinct epidemiological and clinical features, specific virulence determinants, and association with certain serotypes. In the present study, a simple and rapid one-step single reaction multiplex PCR (mPCR) assay was developed for the simultaneous identification and differentiation of five currently established pathotypes causing gastrointestinal diseases.