NIOSHTIC-2 Publications Search
Using PCR to detect indoor fungi.
Authors
Chen BT; Keswani J; Zhou G; Ong T
Source
Indoor Air 2002 Jun; :63-68
NIOSHTIC No.
20023404
Abstract
This research attempts to develop a molecular bioassay that uses a Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) technique for detecting fungi commonly found in an indoor environment. During sample preparation, the method of bead-beating was identified as the most effective way for spore breakage and fungal DNA release. In the process of assay development, a fungal primer set, FF2/FRl, was designed and tested with DNA from human, rats, mice, bacteria, pollens and six fungal species. The results based on the crude extracts indicated that the primer set successfully amplified the fungal DNA without any cross-amplification with non-fungal DNA. In addition, higher amplification efficiencies were achieved using 20% nutrient media, rather than water, as the process solution. This PCR assay has a sensitivity of detecting low levels of fungi (2 fungal spores per reaction).
Keywords
Molecular structure; Molecular biology; Bioassays; Fungi; Indoor air pollution; Sampling methods; Analytical methods; Analytical processes; Indoor environmental quality
Publication Date
20020630
Document Type
Conference/Symposia Proceedings; Journal Article
Email Address
bdc4@cdc.gov
Fiscal Year
2002
NIOSH Division
HELD
Priority Area
Research Tools and Approaches: Exposure Assessment Methods
Source Name
Indoor Air 2002, Proceedings: 9th International Conference on Indoor Air Quality and Climate, Montery, California, June 30-July 5, 2002
State
WV
Page last reviewed: March 3, 2021
Content source:
National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health
Education and Information Division