Microprobe, Inc.

Roy H Kanemoto

Dennis E Schwartz

Susan M Watanabe

Kim Dix

Nicolaas M Vermuelen

Trevor H Adams

This invention relates to compositions of oligonucleotide probes for use in the detection of bacteria associated with medical disorders of the human mouth, wherein said probes consist essentially of a segment of nucleic acid capable of selectively hybridizing under hybridizing conditions, to the 16S or 23S ribosomal RNA [rRNA] of said bacteria. Methods for detection, as well as diagnostic kits for the assay of these bacterium, are also disclosed.

Oligonucleotide probes for detection of periodontal pathogens

This invention provides for a method of quantifying bacteria using a bacterial specific nucleic acid probe which is complementary to a unique and highly conserved region of the 16S ribosomal RNA (rRNA) of bacteria. This probe permits the rapid detection of 16S rRNA in a sample and by comparison with known standards, one can estimate the total bacterial count in the sample. The method is accurate and reproducible and conducted at temperatures of between about 120.degree. to about 40.degree. C.

Quantification of bacteria using a nucleic acid hybridization assay

Oligonucleotide probes for the detection of periodontal pathogens

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Seattle, WA, United States of America

Roy H Kanemoto