|
Cy3-GCTTCTCGTCCGTTC, a fluorescein-labeled PNA oligonucleotide designed as a molecular probe to specifically detect Staphylococcus aureus by targeting a unique region of its 16S ribosomal RNA (rRNA).
PNA is a synthetic mimic of DNA in which an uncharged peptide-like structure replaces the sugar-phosphate backbone. This neutral backbone confers a higher binding affinity, greater specificity, and faster hybridization kinetics than conventional DNA probes-especially useful for hybridizing to structured RNA targets like rRNA.
When conjugated to a fluorescent dye (e.g., fluorescein), the probe can bind directly to cellular 16S rRNA within fixed samples, enabling rapid microscopic visualization of target bacteria via bright fluorescent signals. Bioinformatic analyses (e.g., BLAST) showed that this sequence is specific to S. aureus, with mismatches to non-target species such as S. epidermidis, S. haemolyticus, and others, thereby minimizing cross-hybridization. Only S. schleiferi exhibited minor cross-reactivity, but it's of little clinical relevance.
Features & Benefits:
- Exceptional Specificity & Affinity:
A neutral PNA backbone yields stronger, faster binding than DNA probes, ensuring precise targeting of S. aureus with minimal off-target binding.
- Rapid Detection via PNA-FISH:
Enables the visualization of S. aureus directly from clinical samples in under 3 hours, replacing slower culture-based identification methods.
- Robust Analytical Performance:
Demonstrated ~97% sensitivity and ~100% specificity in real-world blood culture specimens.
- Versatile & Adaptable:
Compatible with established FISH protocols and microscopy workflows; can be integrated into multiplex assays for simultaneous detection of multiple pathogens.
- Accelerated Clinical Decision-Making:
Provides clinicians with timely insights to refine antibiotic treatments and improve patient outcomes.
This PNA probe (sequence GCTTCTCGTCCGTTC) is a powerful, high-precision tool for rapid and specific detection of Staphylococcus aureus. Its design harnesses the strengths of PNA chemistry for quick binding, strong specificity, and robust performance in clinical and research FISH workflows. Perfectly suited for diagnostic assay kits, microbial research, and development of next-generation molecular pathogen detection platforms.
|
