Advanced Diagnostic Laboratories

Identification of bacteria by 16S sequencing

Test Code

MX16S

Description

16S rRNA sequencing a high-resolution molecular method that can be used to identify bacterial species by analyzing specific, genetically conserved regions of their DNA. This approach allows for comprehensive identification of pure isolates of bacteria, aerobic actinomycetes and some mycobacterial species after they have grown in culture. The test can be performed directly from liquid growth medium to allow rapid detection of pathogens that that are difficult to grow on solid media.

Collect

Pure growth of bacterial organisms on laboratory media.

Acceptable solid media: LJ, 7H10, 7H11, 7H11S, Mueller Hinton agar, blood agar, NTM Elite
Acceptable liquid media: MGIT, MP bottle, VersaTrek Myco Media, 7H9, Mueller Hinton broth, FSM, TSB, thioglycolate

Unacceptable Conditions

Mixed cultures

Stability

Isolates may be sent at ambient (room), refrigerate or as a frozen glycerol stock. Isolates with insufficient or excessive growth, or that are submitted frozen, will be subcultured/incubated prior to testing.

Performed

The assay is run once a week

Methodology

Sanger sequencing of is performed on a ~500 bp region of the 16S rRNA region for qualitative identification. The resulting sequence is compared to published sequences of organisms which allows for accurate identification to the genus, species, or subspecies level.

Turnaround Time

7-14 days

Department

Microbiology Lab

Study Offerings

RUO
CAP/CLIA

Related Tests

16STB