Dual-Emission FRET-PCR Outperforms SYBR Green and EvaGreen for Accurate Discrimination of Primary Canine Dermatophytes: Microsporum canis, Nannizzia gypsea, and Trichophyton mentagrophytes
This research developed a new rapid test called FRET-PCR that can identify three common fungal infections in dogs within 2.5 hours, compared to 2-4 weeks for traditional culture methods. The test works by detecting specific genetic markers in fungal DNA and measuring temperature changes that differ for each fungal species. When compared to two other molecular tests (SYBR Green and EvaGreen), the FRET-PCR method was more accurate and sensitive, even able to detect a single copy of the target gene. This faster, more accurate identification will help veterinarians choose the right treatment more quickly and prevent spread of fungal infections.