Sensitive and rapid detection of three foodborne pathogens in meat by recombinase polymerase amplification with lateral flow dipstick (RPA-LFD)

Foodborne illnesses, caused by harmful microorganisms in food, are a significant global health issue. Current methods for identifying these pathogens are both labor-intensive and time-consuming. In this research, we devised a swift and precise detection technique using recombinase polymerase amplification combined with a lateral flow dipstick (RPA-LFD) for three foodborne pathogens found in meat. By employing a dedicated detection device, RPA-LFD allows for the rapid analysis of DNA from Escherichia coli O157 (E. coli O157), Salmonella, and Shigella-pathogens that are prohibited in food. The detection thresholds for E. coli O157, Salmonella, and Shigella are 0.168 fg/μl (1.04 CFU/ml), 0.72 fg/μl (27.49 CFU/ml), and 1.25 fg/μl (48.84 CFU/ml), respectively. This method provides a short detection window, operates at low temperatures, follows simple procedures, and exhibits high sensitivity. Our study establishes the RPA-LFD method for simultaneously identifying the nucleic acid of three foodborne pathogens, offering an efficient solution for quickly identifying multiple contaminants.