Microbial Identification Techniques

A method to quickly copy many DNA or RNA molecules, making tiny amounts detectable.

A technique using random primers to identify unknown microbes from a sample with many different microbes.

Using probes to match up with specific genetic material to identify microbes.

A method that uses fluorescent probes to find and identify microbes in intact cells.

Separates large DNA fragments based on size using changing electric fields.

Comparing 16s rRNA to identify microbes, showing evolutionary relationships.

A test only reacting with its target antibody or antigen, not others.

A test's ability to detect small amounts of antibodies or antigens.

A chip containing gene sequences from thousands of infectious agents used to detect diseases.

The process of isolating patient samples and mixing them with labeled genes.

Using a computer to identify the bound gene sequences on the chip.

Improved health results from using new diagnostic tests.

Antigen-antibody reaction where whole cells, like bacteria or red blood cells, clump together.

Antigen-antibody reaction where soluble molecules form insoluble complexes that precipitate out of solution.

A test that separates proteins by size using electrophoresis, then detects specific proteins using antibodies.

A test that detects syphilis antibodies in plasma by observing agglutination of lipid particles.

A method to identify antigens and antibodies by observing precipitation bands formed when they diffuse towards each other in agar gel.

A single precipitation band formed when two antigens share the same epitope, indicating they are identical.

Two separate precipitation bands formed when two antigens have different epitopes, indicating they are distinct.

One precipitation band with a spur formed when two antigens share some but not all epitopes, indicating they are partially related.

The highest dilution of serum that still shows a positive agglutination reaction, indicating the concentration of antibodies.

Antigen-antibody reactions where soluble antigens become insoluble, often observed as cloudy zones in test tubes.

Identifying a pathogen based on its physical characteristics like shape, size, and how it interacts with its environment.

Identifying a pathogen by detecting specific antibodies or antigens in the patient's blood using serological tests.

Identifying a pathogen by analyzing its unique genetic material, like DNA or RNA.

A type of growth medium that allows you to distinguish between different types of bacteria based on their growth characteristics.

A sample containing only one type of bacteria, important for accurate identification and testing.

Testing the metabolic activities of a bacterium by analyzing its ability to utilize specific nutrients and produce certain byproducts.

Testing a bacterium's ability to break down sugars (carbohydrates) for energy, often producing acid or gas as byproducts.

A method for identifying bacteria based on their sensitivity to specific viruses called bacteriophages.

A selective and differential medium specifically designed to isolate and identify Salmonella and Shigella bacteria.

A technique used to rapidly amplify specific DNA sequences, making it easier to detect and identify pathogens.

A technique used to measure very small amounts of substances in a sample by using radioactive isotopes to label antibodies or antigens. It involves adding known amounts of radioactively labeled antibodies or antigens to a sample and then measuring the amount of radioactivity present. This method is highly sensitive and used to detect specific antigens or antibodies in biological samples.

A method used to detect antigens or antibodies in a sample by using antibodies labeled with a fluorescent dye. It involves attaching fluorescent dyes to antibodies and then exposing them to a sample. If the antibodies bind to their target, they will fluoresce under a microscope, revealing the presence of the antigen or antibody.

This test involves a well-plate with known antibodies attached. This well reacts with unknown antigens from the sample. If the antigen is present, it binds to the antibody and the enzyme-linked antibody is added, leading to a color change indicating a positive result.

A test used to detect antibodies in a sample by using a known antigen and an enzyme-linked secondary antibody. This test is used to identify antibodies in a patient's serum. It involves adding known antigens to a well. If the patient has antibodies specific to the antigen, they will bind to the antigen. Then an enzyme-linked secondary antibody specific to the patient's antibodies is added, which binds to the Fc region of the patient's antibody. This leads to a color change indicating a positive result.

This in vivo test involves injecting a small amount of purified protein derivative (PPD) from Mycobacterium tuberculosis into the skin. A red, raised, thickened lesion appearing within 48-72 hours signifies prior exposure to tuberculosis.

New diagnostic techniques are emerging, utilizing advancements in genetics, physics, and information science.

A positive result in immunofluorescence test means the antigen or antibody is present and the fluorescently labeled antibody binds to it, causing it to fluoresce in the microscope.