Development of Conventional and Quantitative PCR Assays for the Detection of Vibrio europaeus Using a Species-Specific Gene Identified from the Pangenome

Abstract

[Abstract] Vibriosis, specifically caused by Vibrio europaeus, significantly impacts bivalve aquaculture through severe mortalities mainly at early stages. Developing specific diagnostic tools has been hindered by a lack of reliable molecular targets. Using a pangenomic approach via our custom pipeline, PanGenAmp, we identified the gene ktrA as a highly specific marker. Novel conventional and quantitative PCR (qPCR) assays were developed based on ktrA, demonstrating high sensitivity and accuracy. These PCR tools fill a critical diagnostic gap, enabling early pathogen detection and improved biosecurity to mitigate the economic consequences of V. europaeus outbreaks in shellfish hatcheries.