The application of multiplex PCR to detect seven different DNA targets in group B streptococci

Folia Microbiol (Praha). 2012 May;57(3):163-7. doi: 10.1007/s12223-012-0108-7. Epub 2012 Mar 13.

Abstract

Group B Streptococcus (GBS) causes severe infections in infants and in immunocompromised adults. GBS pathogenicity varies between and within serotypes, with considerable variation in genetic content between strains. For this reason, it is important to be able to carry out immediate and comprehensive diagnostics of these infections. Seven genes important for screening of GBS infection were detected: cfb gene encoding the CAMP factor presented in every GBS; the cps operon genes such as cps1aH, cps1a/2/3IJ, and cps5O specific for capsular polysaccharide types Ia, III, and V, respectively; macrolide resistance genes ermB and mefA/E; and the gbs2018 S10 region specific for ST17 hypervirulent clone. Standardization of multiplex PCR with the use of seven primer pairs was performed on 81 bacterial strains representing different GBS isolates (n = 75) and other Gram-positive cocci (n = 10). Multiplex PCR can be used as an effective screening method to detect different sequences important for the screening of GBS infection.

Publication types

  • Evaluation Study
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Bacteriological Techniques / methods*
  • Bacteriological Techniques / standards
  • DNA Primers / genetics
  • DNA, Bacterial / genetics*
  • Genes, Bacterial
  • Humans
  • Infant
  • Mass Screening / methods
  • Mass Screening / standards
  • Multiplex Polymerase Chain Reaction / methods*
  • Multiplex Polymerase Chain Reaction / standards
  • Streptococcus agalactiae / classification
  • Streptococcus agalactiae / genetics*
  • Streptococcus agalactiae / isolation & purification*

Substances

  • DNA Primers
  • DNA, Bacterial