Molecular Identification of Human Fungal Pathogens
Abstract
This proposal focuses on the development of a system for the molecular identification of human fungal pathogens using a biocurated database of DNA sequences. While common fungi can be easily identified by clinical microbiologists, identification of non-routine fungi from clinical specimens cannot be reliably done without specific training in mycology. Unfortunately, individuals with this training are in short supply in both civilian and military hospitals. The objective of this study is to enable laboratory technicians to make proper identifications without experience in mycology using standardized techniques developed in this proposal to generate a DNA sequence, which can then be used to search an internet-accessible database developed by our laboratory. The output from searches of this database will be reconfigured from the standard BLAST algorithm search output currently used by Genbank (the largest sequence repository in the world) to yield an accurate identification that utilizes proper and consistent fungal nomenclature. This strategy will allow technicians to provide an appropriate identification, enabling clinicians to more efficiently select the proper treatment course. The significance of our study will be to enable any clinical laboratory, regardless of mycological expertise, to identify any human fungal pathogen faster and more accurately than is presently possible, using a single assay.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Mar 01, 2009
- Accession Number
- ADA503794
Entities
People
- Brian L. Wickes
Organizations
- University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio