This nucleic acid assay employs Light Upon Extension (LUX) chemistry and High Resolution Melt (HRM) analysis to detect and distinguish the different genotypes of Chlamydophila psittaci. C. psittaci is an atypical pathogen which may result in severe pneumonia upon infection of birds, mammals and humans (depending on inter-relationships between host and pathogen genotypes). Presently, C. psittaci clinical identification is achieved by a cumbersome and time-intensive mix of ompA gene sequencing, microarray analysis, RFLP and/or serological testing. Accurate and timely molecular C. psittaci diagnosis techniques are not generally available in most clinical facilities, leading to improper treatment of patients.

To that end, this robust CDC developed assay should be useful for epidemiological studies and may provide valuable information for best implementing public health measures in the event of outbreaks. This tool may also offer greater insight into the heterogeneity and dissemination of C. psittaci genotypes. Additionally, the assay can serve as a veterinary diagnostic and/or pre-screening tool for companion birds. Such applications would provide further benefit by resulting in reduced transmission of the disease to humans.