Rapid Detection Technology Using Molecular Beacon Loop-Mediated Isothermal Amplification for Skin Infections Caused by Staphylococcus aureus

Abstract

Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus), a Gram-positive bacterium, is often found on the skin, nasal passages, and mucous membranes of healthy individuals, where it acts as a commensal pathogen. Therefore, it is crucial to have a rapid and sensitive detection method to reduce the spread of S. aureus infections effectively. This study developed a reliable and rapid detection protocol to identify S. aureus DNA in skin infections. The assay exhibited no cross-reactivity with four other bacterial strains and demonstrated a sensitivity of 102 CFU/mL. When tested on 24 simulated samples, the MB-LAMP assay results were consistent with those of qPCR, but with a significantly reduced testing time of approximately 30 minutes. Furthermore, this detection scheme can also rapidly detect other pathogens such as Salmonella, Monocytogenes, and Vibrio parahaemolyticus.