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Diagnostic molecular microbiology: a 2013 snapshot
Marilynn Ransom Fairfax1, Hossein Salimnia
1Department of Pathology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, and Microbiology Division, Detroit Medical Center University Laboratories, 4201 Saint Antoine, Detroit, MI 48201, USA.
Clinics in Laboratory Medicine
|November 26, 2013
Summary
Molecular diagnostic techniques are advancing rapidly for infectious disease detection. This review covers various methods, from probe tests to advanced PCR and MALDI TOF, comparing their benefits and drawbacks for clinical microbiology.
Area of Science:
- Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases
- Molecular Diagnostics and Biotechnology
Background:
- Molecular testing has become indispensable in diagnosing infectious diseases.
- Significant advancements have occurred since the 1990s, with the FDA approval of early probe tests.
- The field continues to evolve with innovative molecular techniques.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the diverse applications of molecular techniques in diagnostic microbiology.
- To compare various molecular methods based on their benefits, drawbacks, and potential challenges.
- To provide an overview of both established and novel molecular diagnostic approaches.
Main Methods:
- Review and comparison of established and innovative molecular techniques.
- Includes probe techniques, qualitative and quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR).
- Covers highly multiplexed PCR panels, microfluidic cartridges, MALDI TOF, and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR).
Main Results:
- Molecular tests are categorized by technique and target for clarity.
- Comparative analysis of similar tests for specific analytes is presented.
- Benefits, drawbacks, and potential issues associated with each method are discussed.
Conclusions:
- Molecular diagnostics offer powerful tools for infectious disease identification.
- Understanding the nuances of different techniques is crucial for optimal test selection.
- Continued innovation promises further improvements in diagnostic accuracy and efficiency.
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