Pre-analytical sample treatment and DNA extraction protocols for the detection of bacterial pathogens from whole blood

W.L.J. Hansen, C.A. Bruggeman, P.F. Wolffs

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingChapterAcademic

Abstract

Molecular diagnostics is an increasing popular approach for the direct detection and identification of pathogenic bacteria in clinical samples. Conventional culture techniques are time-consuming and therefore causing a delay in the diagnosis of the patient. Alternative techniques based on nucleic acid amplification offer a shorter turn-around-time and the ability to identify fastidious and non-cultivable organisms. However, molecular detection of bacteria in blood, by for example PCR, RT-PCR, or sequencing of the 16S rDNA genes is often complicated by the presence of PCR-inhibitory compounds. Here we describe several different methods for the extraction of bacterial DNA from whole blood samples. The methods differ regarding costs, hands-on time as well as regarding sensitivity. In combination with a model PCR the detection limits that can be reached using the different methods range from 1,000 to 50 cfu/ml.
Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationPCR Detection of Microbial Pathogens
EditorsM. Wilks
PublisherSpringer
Pages81-90
ISBN (Print)978-1-60327-352-7
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 1 Jan 2013

Publication series

SeriesMethods in Molecular Biology
Number943

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