title: A rapid and simple method of detection of Blepharisma japonicum using PCR and immobilisation on FTA paper.
abstract: BACKGROUND
  The rapid expansion in the availability of genome and DNA sequence information has opened up new possibilities for the development of methods for detecting free-living protozoa in environmental samples. The protozoan Blepharisma japonicum was used to investigate a rapid and simple detection system based on polymerase chain reaction amplification (PCR) from organisms immobilised on FTA paper.
  
  
  RESULTS
  Using primers designed from the alpha-tubulin genes of Blepharisma, specific and sensitive detection to the equivalent of a single Blepharisma cell could be achieved. Similar detection levels were found using water samples, containing Blepharisma, which were dried onto Whatman FTA paper.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  This system has potential as a sensitive convenient detection system for Blepharisma and could be applied to other protozoan organisms.
mesh_terms: D000818:Animals; D016798:Ciliophora / Q000235:genetics / Q000302:isolation & purification*; D017931:DNA Primers / Q000737:chemistry; D016054:DNA, Protozoan / Q000302:isolation & purification*; D016133:Polymerase Chain Reaction / Q000379:methods*; D012680:Sensitivity and Specificity; D014404:Tubulin / Q000235:genetics; D014867:Water / Q000469:parasitology*
chemical_list: D017931:DNA Primers; D016054:DNA, Protozoan; D014404:Tubulin; D014867:Water