Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms

Using seven species specific single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) to differentiate between Brucella strains using real-time PCR.

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.

Store blood samples refrigerated until shipped for testing. Store tissue samples and CSF frozen until shipped for testing. 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 Brucella 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. 1

The species specific SNP profile will be determined through real-time PCR and compared to control strains.

14 calendar days for a final result.

1. Foster, J.T. et al. 2008. Real-Time PCR Assays of Single-Nucleotide Polymorphisms Defining the Major Brucella Clades.