[Use of molecular genetics for identification and differentiation of various strains and species of bacteria]

The aim of the paper is to inform on methods and practical application of DNA fingerprinting in typing of living organisms. Methods discussed in the review include standard DNA fingerprinting, plasmid profile analysis, RAPD PCR and direct sequencing of selected parts of genomes. In each method molecular basis together with its advantages and limitations is explained. All described methods are supplemented with selected cases of their practical application.