Molecular Detection of Microorganisms

Analysis of DNA or RNA to identify the presence of specific microorganisms.

Using molecular techniques like PCR to diagnose infections.

Choosing specific DNA or RNA sequences to target in a test.

Identifying bacterial species using DNA or RNA analysis.

Detecting viral infections using DNA or RNA analysis.

Identifying parasitic infections using DNA or RNA analysis.

Using molecular techniques to detect fungal infections.

Using molecular techniques to diagnose inherited diseases related to chromosomal abnormalities.

A laboratory technique used to separate DNA fragments based on size using an electric current. The separated fragments can be visualized as bands.

Methods that amplify specific DNA sequences to make them easier to detect, analyze, and study. PCR is the most common method.

Used to confirm the presence of viruses like HIV and HCV when traditional serological tests are unreliable.

The study of the genetic basis of inherited disorders. It focuses on how mutations in genes can cause disease.

A laboratory technique that detects antibodies (proteins that fight infections) in a sample. ELISA is used for screening for diseases.

A laboratory technique that separates proteins based on size and charge. Western blots are used to confirm viral infections.

Genes that provide resistance to antimicrobial medications. Detecting these genes is important for guiding treatment.

A type of bacteria commonly found in the environment, often associated with respiratory infections.

Bordetella pertussis infects the upper respiratory tract, causing whooping cough, a highly contagious respiratory illness.

The gold standard test for detecting Bordetella pertussis is PCR, due to its high sensitivity and specificity. It can identify the bacteria even in small amounts.

The most common specimen type used for Bordetella pertussis detection is a nasopharyngeal swab. It collects samples from the back of the nose and throat, where the bacteria is typically found in high concentrations.

Streptococcus pneumoniae is a common bacterium found in the respiratory tract. It can cause infections ranging from mild to serious, including pneumonia, meningitis, and ear infections.

PCR is the gold standard method for detecting Streptococcus pneumoniae, offering high reliability and sensitivity. It can identify the bacteria even in low concentrations.

The specimen of choice for detecting Streptococcus pneumoniae is a nasopharyngeal swab, as it allows for the collection of samples from the upper respiratory tract, where the bacteria is typically found.

It's important to differentiate between colonization and infection when detecting Streptococcus pneumoniae using PCR. Colonization occurs when the bacteria is present but not causing disease, while infection indicates the presence of symptoms and harm to the host.

The ability of microorganisms to survive and multiply in the presence of antimicrobial agents that would normally kill them or inhibit their growth.

A method that allows for the simultaneous detection of multiple microorganisms in a single reaction, providing a faster and more efficient diagnostic approach compared to testing for each organism separately.

The ability of bacteria to produce enzymes that deactivate antimicrobial agents, rendering them ineffective.

A type of β-lactamase produced by bacteria like Staphylococcus aureus and Neisseria gonorrhoeae, which cleaves the β-lactam ring of penicillin and similar antibiotics, rendering them ineffective.

A mechanism of resistance where microorganisms develop altered targets for antimicrobial agents, preventing the agents from binding to their intended targets.

An active process where microorganisms pump out antimicrobial agents from their cells, reducing their intracellular concentration and making them less susceptible to the drug.

A resistance mechanism where microorganisms develop altered membrane permeability or reduced drug uptake, preventing the antimicrobial agent from entering the cell.

Inactivation of antimicrobial agents by microbial enzymes. This can occur through chemical modification of the drug, rendering it ineffective.

A change in the number of chromosomes in a cell, often due to errors during cell division (meiosis).

The process where chromosomes do not separate properly during cell division, leading to an unequal distribution of chromosomes in the daughter cells.

A cell that has an abnormal number of chromosomes, typically with an extra or missing chromosome.

A condition where there are two or more genetically distinct populations of cells within a single individual.

When a mutation provides an advantage in survival or reproduction, allowing cells with the mutation to outcompete others.

The process by which bacteria develop resistance to antibiotics through mutations that alter their susceptibility to the antibiotic.

A specific type of resistance against methicillin, a common antibiotic. MRSA (methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus) is a serious concern in healthcare.

A specialized protein involved in making bacterial cell walls. Mutations in PBP can lead to antibiotic resistance.

A genetic condition where the body absorbs too much iron from food, leading to iron buildup in organs like the pancreas, liver, and skin.

A genetic disorder caused by mutations in the MTHFR gene, leading to a deficiency in the MTHFR enzyme needed for folate metabolism. This deficiency causes an increase in homocysteine levels in the blood, potentially leading to cardiovascular issues.

A type of genetic mutation that leads to the production of a dysfunctional protein, often causing a disease state.

A genetic condition where individuals inherit two copies of a mutated gene. One from each parent.

A genetic condition where the HFE gene is mutated, resulting in excessive iron absorption and build-up in the body.

A genetic condition where mutations in genes involved in lysosome function lead to the accumulation of specific substances, causing cell damage.

A genetic condition caused by mutations in the CFTR gene, leading to defective chloride channels in the body's cells. This results in thick mucus build-up in various organs.

A method used to detect genetic mutations by cutting DNA with restriction enzymes. The resulting DNA fragments are then separated by size using electrophoresis.