Abstract: 　AIM: To prepare a probe with high specificity and sensitivity for the detection of Cryptosporidium parvum. METHODS: Using PCR method, a fragment from the DNA of C.parvum was amplified . The PCR product, 452 bp DNA, was labeled with hapten digoxigenin.RESULTS: Examination of sensitivity showed that the DNA probe could detect as low as 2 pg DNA from C.parvum. The dot blot hybridizition assay showed that the probe hybridized with the DNA of C.parvum, but not hybridized with DNA of E.histolytica, G.lamblia, E.coli and D.bacilli. CONCLUSION: The probe was highly specific and sensitive for the detection of C.parvum.

Key words: Cryptosporidium parvum, DNA probe, hybridization