Molecular epidemiology of tuberculosis: current insights.
Molecular epidemiologic studies of tuberculosis (TB) have focused largely on utilizing molecular techniques to address short- and long-term epidemiologic questions, such as in outbreak investigations and in assessing the global dissemination of strains, respectively. This is done primarily by examining the extent of genetic diversity of clinical strains of Mycobacterium tuberculosis. When molecular methods are used in conjunction with classical epidemiology, their utility for TB control has been realized. For instance, molecular epidemiologic studies have added much-needed accuracy and precision in describing transmission dynamics, and they have facilitated investigation of previously unresolved issues, such as estimates of recent-versus-reactive disease and the extent of exogenous reinfection. In addition, there is mounting evidence to suggest that specific strains of M. tuberculosis belonging to discrete phylogenetic clusters (lineages) may differ in virulence, pathogenesis, and epidemiologic characteristics, all of which may significantly impact TB control and vaccine development strategies. Here, we review the current methods, concepts, and applications of molecular approaches used to better understand the epidemiology of TB.
Mathema
Barun
B
Tuberculosis Center, Public Health Research Institute, Newark, NJ 07103, USA. barry@phri.org
Kurepina
Natalia E
NE
Bifani
Pablo J
PJ
Kreiswirth
Barry N
BN
D000818:Animals; D000995:Antitubercular Agents / Q000494:pharmacology; D006801:Humans; D017720:Molecular Epidemiology; D009169:Mycobacterium tuberculosis / Q000187:drug effects / Q000235:genetics* / Q000302:isolation & purification / Q000502:physiology; D014376:Tuberculosis / Q000453:epidemiology* / Q000382:microbiology / Q000517:prevention & control / Q000635:transmission; D032581:Tuberculosis Vaccines / Q000627:therapeutic use
D000995:Antitubercular Agents; D032581:Tuberculosis Vaccines