DNA probes for the identification of microorganisms

Abstract

The detection and identification of microorganisms is being carried out increasingly using DNA. Each organism has a unique DNA sequence which can be used to distinguish closely related organisms. Using PCR amplification and sequencing of ribosomal RNA genes we have developed DNA probes for a number of pathogenic bacteria and fungi. The development of DNA assays based on PCR has resulted in new questions which must be addressed including process carry-over contamination and inhibition of the PCR amplification reaction once the problems associated with the implementation of DNA assays are ironed out. © 1994 Society for Industrial Microbiology.