Specific detection of unamplified mycobacterial DNA by use of fluorescent semiconductor quantum dots and magnetic beads.

ABSTRACT: Here we present the development of a specific DNA detection method using fluorescent semiconductor quantum dots (QDs) and magnetic beads (MBs) for fast detection of Mycobacterium spp., dispensing with the need for DNA amplification. Two biotinylated oligonucleotide probes were used to recognize and detect specific complementary mycobacterial target DNA through a sandwich hybridization reaction. Cadmium selenite QDs conjugated with streptavidin and species-specific probes were used to produce a fluorescent signal. MBs conjugated with streptavidin and a genus-specific probe were used to isolate and concentrate the DNA targets. The application of the proposed method to isolated bacteria produced the expected result in all cases. The minimum detection limit of the assay was defined as 12.5 ng

SUBMITTER: Gazouli M 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC2916577 | biostudies-literature | 2010 Aug

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature