Diagnostic molecular microbiology: a 2013 snapshot

Marilynn Ransom Fairfax, Hossein Salimnia, Marilynn Ransom Fairfax, Hossein Salimnia

Abstract

Molecular testing has a large and increasing role in the diagnosis of infectious diseases. It has evolved significantly since the first probe tests were FDA approved in the early 1990s. This article highlights the uses of molecular techniques in diagnostic microbiology, including "older," as well as innovative, probe techniques, qualitative and quantitative RT-PCR, highly multiplexed PCR panels, some of which use sealed microfluidic test cartridges, MALDI TOF, and nuclear magnetic resonance. Tests are grouped together by technique and target. Tests with similar roles for similar analytes are compared with respect to benefits, drawbacks, and possible problems.

Keywords: MALDI TOF; Molecular microbiology; Multiplex PCR panels; Nuclear magnetic resonance; PCR; Probe tests; Rapid molecular diagnosis of infections.

Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Figures

Fig. 1
Fig. 1
The bDNA “molecular tree” technique.

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