Decades of development of the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) have yielded a significant array of associated techniques that make it possible to rapidly detect low numbers of all known pathogenic microorganisms without the traditional, more taxing methods of cultivation and phenotypic characterization. Written by one of the most prolific and respected researchers in food safety, Rapid Detection and Characterization of Foodborne Pathogens by Molecular Techniques describes the application of molecular techniques for the detection and discrimination of major infectious bacteria associated with foods.

The book puts a particular focus on genes associated with pathogenicity used in PCR, including real-time PCR for specific detection of pathogenic bacteria and the inherent limitations of such methodology with certain pathogens. It also emphasizes methods for extracting microorganisms from complex food matrices and DNA purification techniques. The coverage begins with a highly comprehensive review of real time PCR, complete with theoretical and operational concepts. Each chapter deals with a specific organism and the techniques applied to that organism. The text includes references on the use of PCR primers and DNA probes, the DNA sequence of each being listed at the end of each chapter to create a complete compendium.

This is not a "recipe book", but rather a resource with sufficiently detailed information that allows readers to fully comprehend the methodology described and the significance of the results. Copiously illustrated with figures, tables, charts, and graphs, this is a detailed presentation of the major, contemporary studies involving the molecular detection, quantification, and subspecies differentiation of each organism. With objective assessments of the molecular techniques, their advantages, and limitations, the book allows investigators to readily identify the precise molecular technique and application most suitable for their research.