Species-specific multiplex real-time PCR assay for identification of deer and common domestic animals

A multiplex real-time PCR method for discriminating deer and common domestic species, including cattle, goat, horse, donkey, pig, and chicken was developed. Species-specific primer pairs were designed and used to produce different size DNA fragments with diverse melting temperature (T (m) ) values. The specificity and sensitivity of these primer pairs were separately confirmed using simplex real-time PCR analysis. Multiplex real-time PCR analysis was performed using combined primers, yielding distinct melting curve profiles for each species. The sensitivity limit of the multiplex PCR method was evaluated. Trace DNA of other species in deer DNA could be identified. Common deer products, including blood, meat, and antler were tested using this multiplex PCR method and different species of deer and domestic animals were identified. The rapid multiplex real-time PCR assay described herein is a specific, sensitive, and reliable method for high-throughput authentication of deer and domestic animal products.