Protocol optimization for the detection of Trypanosoma cruzi DNA in açai (Euterpe oleraceae) pulp

ABSTRACT Chagas disease, caused by the protozoan Trypanosoma cruzi, has often been linked to oral transmission through açai consumption. Molecular methods that allow fast and accurate identification of pathogen are important for detection presence parasite in this food. This study aimed optimize polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-based T. cruzi DNA pulp. Several dilutions DTU TcI trypomastigote forms were cultured liver infusion tryptose (LIT) medium. was extracted from cells subjected PCR. Subsequently, culture added pulp evaluate threshold optimized PCR assay. We demonstrate our assay can detect at a concentration 1.08 × 10-10 ng µL-1. conclude protocol is effective be used as an tool contamination açaí.