Mycobacterium Ulcerans - Diagnosis - DNA Fingerprinting Techniques For M. Ulcerans - PCR Typing Methods

PCR Typing Methods

PCR is another molecular method that has become increasingly important for epidemiological studies. The technique detects and amplifies small amounts of DNA; 10-100 copies of the templates are enough to perform DNA amplification. Thus, PCR can be used to type organisms that grow slowly on laboratory media, such as M. tuberculosis. PCR also can be used to detect and type pathogens in patients whose culture are negative because they have been treated. Moreover, PCR can be used to amplify the DNA from organisms that are present in tissues preserved in formalin and from non-cultivable organisms (e.g. M. leprae).