Protocol for the use of a bead array for the multiple detection of genotype of Chlamydia trachomatis

The identification of Chlamydia trachomatis genotypes is important for both molecular epidemiology and infection control such as contact tracing and identification of high-risk groups. Currently, at least 19 human serovars have been recognized by using polyclonal and monoclonal antibodies against the major outer membrane protein. In sexually transmitted diseases, multiple pathogens or genotype infections are not uncommon. Hence, detection of multiple gene targets in one reaction is becoming increasingly important. Here, we describe the multiplex detection of eight genotypes of C. trachomatis by a combination of a PCR amplification with a multiplex bead array detection. The bead array system comprises distinct bead sets, which are color coded by different fluorescent intensities and a dual-laser flow cytometer analyzer to identify the identity of the bead and the intensity of the reporter dye that binds to the target molecules. The DNA sequences of the variable segments (VS2 or VS1-VS2) in outer membrane protein (omp1) gene are PCR amplified and biotin labeled and used as a gene target for the genotyping of C. trachomatis. Genotype-specific probes coupled to beads are used for capturing the labeled target amplicons through specific hybridization. Thus, multiple genotypes are detected and differentiated simultaneously by yielding quantitative data.