Molecular identification of several clinically important bacteria including enterobacteria by partial 16S ribosomal RNA gene sequence comparisonŠimenc, Janez (Avtor) Golle, Andrej (Avtor) Potočnik, Uroš (Avtor) molecular identificationbacteria16S rDNA sequencesBackground: The correct identification of bacterial isolates is paramount for the correct diagnosis and treatment of patients. The standard approach for bacterial identification relies on phenotypic tests, which are often time-consuming and unreliable when identifying atypical strains. We instead hypothesized a molecular approach; fast and reliable identification could be achieved by comparing a 16S ribosomal RNA gene sequence with publicly available sequences. Methods: In the present study, DNA from seventeen bacterial species was extracted and amplified by PCR, and then a partial 16S ribosomal RNA gene sequence was obtained and compared with sequences deposited in public DNA sequence databases; EMBL/GeneBank/DDBJ and RDP-II. Results: Bacterial species, belonging to several families; Coriobacteriaceae, Bacteroidaceae, Clostri- diaceae, Staphylococcaceae, as well as three out of nine Enterobacteriaceae were specifically identified by partial 16S ribosomal RNA gene sequence to the species level. For six other species of enteric bacteria specific identification of species failed, since the results of genotypic identification yielded several species. Conclusions: We conclude identification of bacteria with partial 16S ribosomal RNA gene sequence is an efficient complement to phenotypic identification, except for enteric bacteria.20082017-03-28 11:23:59Znanstveno delo65278sl