Development of a rapid, simple multiplex PCR-dipstick assay for the detection of Neisseria meningitidis serogroups in clinical isolates

The rapid identification and serogrouping of Neisseria meningitidis are crucial for effectively managing invasive meningococcal disease (IMD) patients and their close contacts, particularly in developing countries with limited laboratory resources. We developed a simple multiplex polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-dipstick DNA chromatography (mPCR-dipstick) assay for detecting six major serogroups (A, B, C, W, Y, and X) prevalent worldwide. The assay performance, sensitivity, and specificity were evaluated using 116 unencapsulated and encapsulated N. meningitidis , 29 other Neisseria spp., and 11 non- Neisseria spp. strains. The mPCR-dipstick assay successfully identified all unencapsulated and encapsulated N. meningitidis strains and accurately differentiated the six major serogroups. The detection limit was 4.1 × 10 4 genome copies and 5.3–266 colony-forming units (CFU) per reaction, indicating 100% sensitivity and 100% specificity. This convenient, sensitive, and rapid assay provides considerable advantages for diagnosing, treating, and controlling meningococcal infections in resource-limited settings, especially in high IMD endemic regions, including West Africa.