African Journal of Biotechnology Vol. 2 (12), pp. 710-713, December 2003

ISSN 1684-5315  © 2003 Academic Journals

Minireview

Molecular techniques: An overview of methods for the detection of bacteria

Olubukola O. Babalola

Department of Botany and Microbiology, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria. E-mail: olubukola_babalola@hotmail.com. Tel.: +2348037035965.

Accepted 15 November 2003

Several DNA molecular markers are now available for use in surveillance and investigation of food-borne outbreaks that were previously difficult to detect. The results from several sources of literature indicate substantially different degrees of sensitivities between conventional detection methods and molecular-based methods. The new technology is noted for increased sensitivity over the traditional culture methods which they complement.

Key words: molecular techniques, fingerprinting, microorganism.