Rapid detection of collagens using a closed-tube LAMP method

Area of Science:

• Food Science
• Molecular Biology
• Analytical Chemistry

Background:

• Accurate identification of collagen and gelatin is crucial for food safety and religious compliance.
• Existing methods for differentiating collagen and gelatin can be time-consuming or lack specificity.
• DNA-based detection offers a potential avenue for reliable species identification.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a simple, fast, and accurate method for differentiating collagen and gelatin samples.
• To identify the species of origin for collagen and gelatin using a novel detection technique.
• To address religious and food safety concerns through reliable product authentication.

Main Methods:

• Utilized a closed-tube loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) technique for DNA analysis.
• Employed the DNeasy mericon Food Kit for DNA extraction from collagen and gelatin samples.
• Optimized LAMP reaction conditions, including Mg2+, dNTPs, and betaine concentrations.

Main Results:

• The LAMP assay successfully differentiated between collagen and gelatin samples.
• Visual color changes (green, colorless, or brown) indicated the presence or absence of target DNA.
• The technique allowed for species determination of porcine, bovine, and channel catfish (Ictalurus punctatus) derived collagens within two hours.

Conclusions:

• The developed LAMP method provides a simple and rapid approach for collagen and gelatin identification.
• This technique offers a reliable tool for verifying the species of origin in food products.
• The colorimetric detection facilitates quick and easy analysis, supporting food safety and regulatory compliance.