Development of conventional and quantitative PCR assays for the detection of Vibrio europaeus using a Species-Specific gene identified from the pangenome

Journal of Invertebrate Pathology 2026 Open access

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Authors: Diego Rey-Varela, Ana L. Diéguez, Sergio Rodríguez, Ezgi Dinçtürk, Antia Villada, Justa Ojea, David Polo, Javier Dubert
DOI: 10.1016/j.jip.2026.108624
Cited by: 1
References: 26

Abstract

Vibriosis, specifically caused by Vibrio europaeus, significantly impacts bivalve aquaculture through severe mortalities mainly at early stages. Developing specific diagnostic tools has been hindered by a lack of reliable molecular targets. Using a pangenomic approach via our custom pipeline, PanGenAmp, we identified the gene ktrA as a highly specific marker. Novel conventional and quantitative PCR (qPCR) assays were developed based on ktrA, demonstrating high sensitivity and accuracy. These PCR tools fill a critical diagnostic gap, enabling early pathogen detection and improved biosecurity to mitigate the economic consequences of V. europaeus outbreaks in shellfish hatcheries.

Fields of Study & Subjects

Vibrio bacteria research studies Aquaculture disease management and microbiota Identification and Quantification in Food

Publication details

Journal / source
Journal of Invertebrate Pathology
Publisher
Elsevier BV
Volume
217
Pages
108624–108624
Publication date
14 April 2026
Language
EN