Rapid differentiation of Francisella species and subspecies by fluorescent in situ hybridization targeting the 23S rRNA.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Francisella (F.) tularensis is the causative agent of tularemia. Due to its low infectious dose, ease of dissemination and high case fatality rate, F. tularensis was the subject in diverse biological weapons programs and is among the top six agents with high potential if misused in bioterrorism. Microbiological diagnosis is cumbersome and time-consuming. Methods for the direct detection of the pathogen (immunofluorescence, PCR) have been developed but are restricted to reference laboratories.

Results

The complete 23S rRNA genes of representative strains of F. philomiragia and all subspecies of F. tularensis were sequenced. Single nucleotide polymorphisms on species and subspecies level were confirmed by partial amplification and sequencing of 24 additional strains

SUBMITTER: Splettstoesser WD 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC2844405 | biostudies-literature | 2010 Mar

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature