Multiple Locus Variable Number Tandem Repeat Analysis (MLVA)

Molecular typing of Bacillus anthracis strains using PCR and subsequent fragment size analysis of 15 loci to determine strain relatedness.

Pure bacterial culture, whole blood – minimum 0.5 mL, cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) – minimum 0.5 mL, biopsy tissue, powder Pure bacterial culture – plate or swab; Whole blood – EDTA tube; Tissue or CSF – submit in a sterile collection tube; powder – submit in a sterile 2 mL o-ring microcentrifuge tube

Pure bacterial culture – plate or swab.

Store bacterial cultures refrigerated until shipped for testing.

Shipping of specimens shall be done by a TDG certified individual in accordance with TDG regulations. For additional information regarding classification of specimens for the purposes of shipping, consult either Part 2 Appendix 3 of the TDG Regulations or section 3.6.2 of the IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations as applicable.

Suspected Bacillus anthracis infection.

Completed Bioforensics Assay Development and Diagnostics requisition including sender name, address and telephone number. Patient name or identifier (referring lab #), date of birth, suspected exposure, test(s) requested, clinical history. Type of specimen and date collected. If possible, include the antibiotics administered and travel history.

The MLVA pattern will be determined through PCR and sizing of resulting fragments through capillary electrophoresis. Any matches with previous isolates in the existing databank will be communicated to the client.

14 calendar days for a final result.

1. M.N. Van Ert, WR Easterday, et al. 2007. Global Genetic Population Structure of Bacillus anthracis. PLoS ONE. 2(5): e461.