The VetMAX-Gold Trich Detection Kit (Trichomonas Foetus DNA Test Kit) is a USDA-licensed, real-time PCR assay for detection of Tritrichomonas foetus DNA in enriched smegma samples.

Features of the kit include:

• The first USDA-licensed, real-time PCR assay for detection of Tritrichomonas foetus DNA
• Highly sensitive, qualitative real-time PCR assay
• Optimized multiplex PCR amplification
• Can be used to test pools of up to 5 samples
• Proven repeatability and reproducibility

The assay consists of a single-well (or single-tube) real-time PCR in which T. foetus DNA and Xeno Control DNA targets are amplified and detected in real time using fluorescent TaqMan probes. The kit includes:

• T. foetus-Xeno™ Control DNA Mix—serves as a positive control for the real-time PCR and a means to set the cycle threshold (CT) for evaluating test results
• Xeno Control DNA—serves as internal control for the DNA isolation process and as a monitor for the presence of PCR inhibitors
• T. foetus Primer Probes Mix—for optimized multiplex PCR amplification of both the Xeno Control DNA and T. foetus targets

The VetMAX-Gold Trich Detection Kit can be used to test pools of up to 5 samples (pooling data reviewed and accepted by USDA) for the presence of T. foetus DNA. Pooled samples yielding a positive result should then be tested individually to determine the infection status of each animal in the positive pool.

Bovine trichomonosis is a sexually transmitted infection caused by T. foetus that results in significant economic losses to the in United States and other parts of the world where open range management and natural breeding are practiced. T. foetus is a flagellated protozoan parasite found in bovines that colonizes in the vaginal, uterine, oviduct, and preputial epithelium, resulting in embryonic death, abortion, and infertility in the female. Although bulls are the main carriers of T. foetus, they remain asymptomatic for their entire lives. The VetMAX-Gold Trich Detection Kit enables detection of venereal trichomonosis in carrier bulls.