Loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) assays for the detection of Theileria annulata infection in China targeting the 18S rRNA and ITS sequences

► Two loop-mediated isothermal amplification assays for detection of T. annulata were developed on the basis of the 18S ribosomal RNA gene or internal transcribed spacer. ► The performance of these assays was evaluated by comparison with a PCR method. ► Primary epidemiological data of T. annulata infection in China was obtained by detection of field samples.