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Updated: Jul 9, 2026
Multiplex PCR Assay for Typing of Staphylococcal Cassette Chromosome Mec Types I to V in Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus
Published on: September 5, 2013
Multiplex PCR for rapid detection of Staphylococcus aureus isolates suspected to represent community-acquired strains
B Strommenger1, C Braulke, B Pasemann
1Robert Koch Institute, Wernigerode Branch, Burgstr. 37, D-38855 Wernigerode, Germany. strommengerb@rki.de
Abstract:
The continuous spread of community-acquired methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (caMRSA) and the introduction of these highly virulent isolates into hospitals represent increasing threats. The timely recognition of caMRSA strains is crucial for infection control purposes. Thus, we developed a PCR-based assay for the easy and rapid determination of those caMRSA clones that currently are the most prevalent in Germany and Central Europe. This assay was able to correctly identify the majority of the isolates as caMRSA of sequence type 80 (ST80), clonal complex 1 (USA400), and ST8 (USA300). In combination with spa typing-BURP (based upon repeat pattern) analysis and resistance typing, it provides a means for the extensive characterization of suspicious isolates. Thus, this assay represents a reliable tool for monitoring the emergence and spread of different caMRSA clones. The resulting information, in combination with careful interpretation of the epidemiological records, might help to prevent the further spread of those highly virulent caMRSA clones.
Insights
A new PCR assay quickly identifies prevalent community-acquired methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (caMRSA) clones in Germany and Central Europe. This tool aids infection control by monitoring caMRSA spread and virulence.
Area of Science:
- Clinical Microbiology
- Infectious Diseases
- Molecular Diagnostics
Background:
- Community-acquired methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (caMRSA) poses a growing threat due to its virulence and hospital introduction.
- Rapid identification of caMRSA strains is essential for effective infection control strategies.
- Prevalence of specific caMRSA clones in Germany and Central Europe necessitates targeted detection methods.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a simple and rapid PCR-based assay for identifying prevalent caMRSA clones in Germany and Central Europe.
- To provide a reliable tool for monitoring the emergence and spread of highly virulent caMRSA strains.
- To support infection control by enabling timely recognition of specific caMRSA clones.
Main Methods:
- Development of a Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR)-based assay.
- Validation of the assay against known caMRSA isolates, including sequence types (ST80, ST8) and clonal complexes (CC1/USA400, USA300).
- Integration with spa typing-BURP analysis and resistance typing for comprehensive isolate characterization.
Main Results:
- The developed PCR assay accurately identified the majority of tested isolates as prevalent caMRSA clones, including ST80 (CC1/USA400) and ST8 (USA300).
- The assay demonstrated ease of use and speed for determining caMRSA clone prevalence.
- Combined with other typing methods, the assay facilitates extensive characterization of suspicious isolates.
Conclusions:
- The PCR assay is a reliable tool for monitoring the emergence and spread of key caMRSA clones in Germany and Central Europe.
- This molecular diagnostic approach aids in understanding caMRSA epidemiology.
- Information generated by this assay, coupled with epidemiological data, can help prevent the dissemination of virulent caMRSA strains.
