Using loop‐mediated isothermal amplification combined with gold nanoparticles for optically rapid detection of shrimp Vibrio parahaemolyticus

Shrimp is one of the most important aquatic products in the world. Early detection, prevention, and treatment of shrimp pathogens is important. One major shrimp pathogen, Vibrio parahaemolyticus causes acute hepatopancreatic necrosis disease (VPAHPND) has been studied, but research into pathogen detection needs to be strengthened. Therefore, we were targeting to VPAHPND and using emerging molecular biotechnologies to develop a method for pathogens detection for the shrimp industry. Gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) have an unique color change property. Free AuNPs in solution are the color of claret‐red, while the aggregated AuNPs appear slight purple. Based on the characteristics of visible color difference of AuNPs, we worked on establishing a simple, fast, and specific loop‐mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) detection method for VPAHPND diagnosis using AuNPs. This method, amplified the target DNA of VPAHPND by LAMP and the DNA were directly added onto AuNPs solution for detection. The test results show a color change, so that the results can be visually inspected by naked eye. Using the methods, shrimp VPAHPND can be early detected and treated, boost the economic benefits, and efficiency of shrimp farming. Sensitivity of the loop‐mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP)‐AuNPs assay for shrimp VPAHPND detection. (a) The DNA electrophoresis results of LAMP sensitivity. Lane 1 to 10 LAMP products produced by using tenfold serial dilution of VPAHPND genomic DNA ranging from 101 to 10−8 dilutions. (b) The colorimetric results of LAMP‐AuNPs assay. (c) The UV absorption spectra (400–700 nm) of the LAMP products after LAMP‐AuNPs assay. (d) The value of A520/A620 of LAMP products after LAMP‐AuNPs assay.