Roche Applied Science and TIB Molbiol offer Assay Solution for Rapid EHEC Identification

01-Jun-2011 - Germany

With the recent outbreak in Europe of Enterohaemorrhagic Escherichia coli (EHEC), Roche Applied Science  and TIB Molbiol are providing scientists with complementary technologies that can be used for the rapid identification and detection of EHEC.

As of the second week of May 2011, there has been a significant increase in the number of cases of bloody diarrhea associated with hemolytic-uremic syndrome (HUS). Currently, 329 laboratory confirmed cases have been reported, three of them with fatal outcome (Robert Koch Institute’s report May 29th). The majority of cases are in northern Germany, but recently emerging cases from southern Germany and other European countries have also been reported. The German Consiliary Center for EHEC has identified EHEC producing Shiga toxin 2 (Stx2), as the causative agents. Possible sources are reported to be contaminated vegetables.

Fast, reliable detection of the EHEC bacterium is essential for monitoring and controlling EHEC infections. The most appropriate targets for the rapid, sensitive identification of the EHEC bacterium are unique genetic sequences, which can be amplified and detected using the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) method. Roche Applied Science provides complete systems for PCR, including LightCycler Instruments, software, reagents and consumables. These detection systems are designed for life science research to enable the rapid development and adaptation of PCR assays, accelerating the progress of appropriate diagnostic tools.

The detection of EHEC by real-time PCR using the LightCycler platform was already developed in 2002, and published jointly (J. Clin. Microbiol. (2002) 40, 2555-2565) by scientists from the universities of Regensburg (Prof. Dr. U. Reischl), Muenster (Prof. Dr. H. Karch), and the CDC in Atlanta (Dr. N. Strockbine). Since 2002, this real-time PCR test has been widely adopted by laboratories worldwide.

Other news from the department research and development

Most read news

More news from our other portals

Under the magnifying glass: The world of microscopy

See the theme worlds for related content

Topic World PCR

This groundbreaking and highly versatile molecular technique of PCR allows us to amplify tiny amounts of genetic material on a large scale and analyze them in detail. Whether in medical diagnostics, forensic DNA analysis or research into genetic diseases - PCR is an indispensable tool that gives us deep insights into the world of DNA. Immerse yourself in the fascinating world of the polymerase chain reaction (PCR)!

5+ products
5+ brochures
View topic world
Topic World PCR

Topic World PCR

This groundbreaking and highly versatile molecular technique of PCR allows us to amplify tiny amounts of genetic material on a large scale and analyze them in detail. Whether in medical diagnostics, forensic DNA analysis or research into genetic diseases - PCR is an indispensable tool that gives us deep insights into the world of DNA. Immerse yourself in the fascinating world of the polymerase chain reaction (PCR)!

5+ products
5+ brochures