Genomes analysis and bacteria identification: The use of overlapping genes as molecular markers

J Microbiol Methods. 2015 Oct:117:108-12. doi: 10.1016/j.mimet.2015.07.025. Epub 2015 Jul 30.

Abstract

The growing number of available microbial genomes offers the possibility to identify features that could be used for identification. In this work, the possibility to exploit overlapping genes to develop a simple PCR based method of identification, was explored. Using the Burkholderia cepacia complex as a model, genomic analyses were performed to check the phylogenetic distribution of an overlap between marC and hisH genes and then, a PCR specific for Burkholderia was designed, set up and tested on a panel of strains and on DNA extracted from the sputum of cystic fibrosis patients. Results obtained revealed the usefulness of this approach, which could then be used to develop PCR for the identification of specific bacteria species or genera.

Keywords: Burkholderia cepacia complex; Genomes; Identification; Overlapping genes; marC–hisH.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Burkholderia Infections / diagnosis
  • Burkholderia Infections / microbiology
  • Burkholderia cepacia complex / genetics
  • Burkholderia cepacia complex / isolation & purification
  • Cystic Fibrosis / microbiology
  • DNA, Bacterial / genetics*
  • Genes, Overlapping / genetics*
  • Genetic Markers / genetics*
  • Genome, Bacterial / genetics*
  • Humans
  • Molecular Typing / methods*
  • Polymerase Chain Reaction

Substances

  • DNA, Bacterial
  • Genetic Markers