Development of a m-PCR assay for simultaneous identification of Campylobacter jejuni and C. coli

Multiplex PCR assay (m-PCR) with three sets of primers was developed for si multaneous identification of Campylobacter jejuni and C. coli. Poultry faec al samples were enriched in Preston broth for 24 h and streaking on selecti ve media was performed before and after enrichment. m-PCR was applied on ba cterial cultures harvested from media plates. The data showed a selective e ffect of Preston broth which favoured the growth of C. coli. Identification of the species by the hippurate hydrolysis test and by the m-PCR was perfo rmed on 294 isolates of Campylobacter. The efficiency of the identification by the biochemical test is only 34% in comparison to 100% efficiency with the PCR. The use of our m-PCR in combination with the culture method allowe d reliable detection and identification of C. jejuni and C. coli within 3-4 d.