A rapid DNA amplification assay for cetacean product identification: Providing insights for illegal cetacean utilization and implications for conservation
Journal
Ocean and Coastal Management
Journal Volume
251
Date Issued
2024-05-01
Author(s)
Abstract
Illegal utilization of cetaceans was continuously reported worldwide, posing potential threat to the sustainability of cetacean species. In addition, public health is at risk with the consumption of cetacean-based food products due to high contamination level and zoonotic pathogens. However, the scale of cetacean exploitation remains unclear. This study presented a portable, rapid, and sensitive recombinase polymerase amplification (RPA) assay coupled with dual-zone lateral flow strip, that can achieve identification of cetaceans within 30 min. In addition, this assay could differentiate baleen whales and toothed whales. Unlike conventional immunochromatographic lateral flow test, this assay is compatible with cooked and digested sample types. With this assay, inspecting suspicious cetacean products could become more efficient. Moreover, it can improve the understanding of the pathway of illegal trade and consumption of cetacean products. A more comprehensive insight of the cetacean utilization is essential for establishing feasible management policy, especially toward certain vulnerable and endangered species.
Subjects
Bioassay | Cetacean | Conservation | Human health | Recombinase polymerase amplification | Resource management
Type
journal article