Rapid Identification of Bordetella pertussis Gene Variants
Author Information
Author(s): Johanna Makinen, Matti K. Viljanen, Jussi Mertsola, Heikki Arvilommi, Qiushui He
Primary Institution: National Public Health Institute, Department in Turku, Finland
Hypothesis
The divergence of the pertactin types of clinical isolates from those of the B. pertussis vaccine strains is a result of vaccine-driven evolution.
Conclusion
A rapid real-time PCR method was developed that accurately identifies the prn type of Bordetella pertussis strains, providing a reliable alternative to sequencing.
Supporting Evidence
- The method correctly identified the prn type of all tested 41 clinical isolates and two Finnish vaccine strains.
- The predominant types representing >90% of the tested clinical isolates are prn1-3.
- The whole procedure from nucleic acid extraction to gel electrophoresis can be completed within 1 day.
Takeaway
Scientists created a quick test to tell different types of a bacteria that causes whooping cough, which helps in understanding how the bacteria changes over time.
Methodology
The study used real-time PCR combined with melting curve analysis and gel electrophoresis to identify prn types in clinical isolates and vaccine strains.
Limitations
The method may miss novel genotypes and does not differentiate between prn6-8 types.
Participant Demographics
All clinical isolates originated from Finland and were isolated from 1956 to 1996.
Statistical Information
P-Value
<0.0001
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
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