Nucleic Acid-based Pathogen Discovery Techniques: Potential Application to Xenozoonoses.
Pathogen discovery techniques based on detection and characterization of microbial nucleic acids have potential application to the field of xenotransplantation. Techniques such as broad-range polymerase chain reaction and representational difference analysis may make it possible to define the zoonotic flora present within donor animal species to an extent never before possible. This review describes the current practice of these techniques, with an emphasis on the use of these methods for identifying zoonotic agents. Identification of potential pathogens in colony-reared donors may lead to isolation and selective breeding practices that could ultimately eliminate these agents from the donor pool.
Persing
DH
Divisions of Experimental Pathology and Clinical Microbiology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA