PCR identification of the group A Neisseria meningitidis gene in cerebrospinal fluid
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Updated: Oct 18, 2026

Metagenomic Next-Generation Sequencing of Cerebrospinal Fluid for the Detection of Central Nervous System Pathogens
Published on: April 17, 2026
P Orvelid1, A Bäckman, P Olcén
1Department of Clinical Microbiology and Immunology, Orebro Medical Center Hospital, Sweden.
Abstract:
The aim of this study was to develop a PCR method for direct identification of Neisseria meningitidis serogroup A in cerebrospinal fluid. The assay makes use of unique sites within the gene cassette responsible for expression of the (alpha1 --> 6)-linked N-acetyl-D-mannosamine-1-phosphate serogroup A capsule. A total of 67 different N. meningitidis strains and 12 clinical samples of CSF, culture positive for N. meningitidis, were examined. All the strains and samples of N. meningitidis serogroup A were correctly identified by an amplified PCR product of 519 bp. The PCR method for identification is specific for the group A gene of N. meningitidis. The assay may contribute to reducing recurrent, devastating epidemics of meningococcal infection by providing a diagnostic tool for grouping in developing countries where problems with false negative cultures are common and vaccination against serogroup A meningococci may be required.
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