Journal of Dental Research, Vol 66, 1543-1546, Copyright © 1987 by International & American Associations for Dental Research Online Journals
A cross-reactivity study of whole genomic DNA probes for Haemophilus actinomycetemcomitans, Bacteroides intermedius, and Bacteroides gingivalis
M. N. Strzempko, S. L. Simon, C. K. French, J. A. Lippke, F. F. Raia, E. D. Savitt and K. K. Vaccaro
In this study, we evaluated the sensitivity and specificity of whole
genomic DNA probes for the periodontal pathogens Haemophilus
actinomycetemcomitans, Bacteroides intermedius, and Bacteroides gingivalis.
By means of these probes, DNA hybridizations were performed against other
organisms found in the oral cavity and organisms previously determined to
be genetically similar. All three probes were sensitive to 10(3) cells for
their respective organism. The H. actinomycetemcomitans probe cross-reacted
with several haemophilus strains, Wolinella, and Campylobacter, indicating
that H. actinomycetemcomitans-specific sequences would have to be
identified and cloned for accurate detection of this organism in
heterogeneous patient samples. Only very low levels of cross-reactivity
were observed between the B. intermedius probe and representative
black-pigmented Bacteroides. This low level of cross-reactivity did not
interfere with the accurate identification of B. intermedius in sample
evaluations. The B. gingivalis probe showed no cross-reactivity. Whole
genomic probes will be used for the detection of B. intermedius and B.
gingivalis in patient samples.
