PCR detection of pathogenic Leptospira genomospecies targeting putative transcriptional regulator genes.

The genus Leptospira comprises multiple genomospecies that demonstrate varied pathogenic potential. The availability of rapid and precise diagnostic procedures to differentiate pathogenic from nonpathogenic Leptospira spp. is therefore essential to prevent an otherwise easily treatable malaise from developing into a life-threatening disease. In this report, we conducted an investigation on the diagnostic potential of Leptospira genes encoding putative transcriptional regulators. While PCR primers derived from transcriptional regulator gene la1137 recognized all 24 pathogenic Leptospira strains representing seven species, those from la1937, la3231, la3825, and la4130 detected 19 of the 24 Leptospira strains. However, none of these primers reacted with four nonpathogenic Leptospira species or other common bacteria. The putative transcriptional regulator genes la1137, la1937, la3231, la3825, and la4130 are present in pathogenic Leptospira strains, making them potential targets for diagnostic applications. Further characterization of these genes and their proteins may help elucidate the molecular mechanisms of leptospiral virulence and pathogenicity and pave the way for potential development of novel control strategies against leptospirosis.