USA - Genetic screening technique can detect more than 700 antimicrobial-resistance genes
http://www.ars.usda.gov/News/docs.htm?docid=1261
28-May-2010 (16 years 10 days ago)Using an advanced genetic screening technique, Agricultural Research Service (ARS) scientists and cooperators have detected, for the first time, more than 700 genes that give microbes the ability to resist antibiotics and other antimicrobial compounds.
The researchers used what is called DNA microarray technology to find the resistance genes in a wide variety of bacteria such as Salmonella, E. coli, Campylobacter, Listeria, and Enterococcus, among others. These organisms can cause food poisoning and are thus a major public health concern.
Researchers are concerned that some of these organisms have acquired genetic resistance to the antibiotics used to kill them. Finding the genes that confer resistance is an important step for scientists looking for new ways to control these organisms.
The researchers used what is called DNA microarray technology to find the resistance genes in a wide variety of bacteria such as Salmonella, E. coli, Campylobacter, Listeria, and Enterococcus, among others. These organisms can cause food poisoning and are thus a major public health concern.
Researchers are concerned that some of these organisms have acquired genetic resistance to the antibiotics used to kill them. Finding the genes that confer resistance is an important step for scientists looking for new ways to control these organisms.