Rapid method for auxotyping multiple strains of Neisseria gonorrhoeae

A rapid method for auxotyping strains was developed that uses microtiter plates. This miniplate technique enables rapid identification of major auxotypes present in clinical strains. Additional growth requirements can be identified by adding individual amino acid supplements to complete gonococcal genetic medium. Analysis of 8 clones from 40 patients revealed that 10 had more than 1 auxotype. Deoxyribonucleic acid-mediated transformation can be used to establish whether the strains with apparently more than one auxotype are defective in the same locus in each of the involved biosynthetic pathways. Selection of more than one clone is required in precise epidemiological studies.