[Evaluation of a Biotinylated Probe for Identification of Neisseria Gonorrhoeae]

We evaluated a DNA biotinylated probe for the rapid identification of Neisseria gonorrhoeae in culture (Ortho Diagnostics System, Raritan, NJ). Twenty-one strains of N. gonorrhoeae, including type strain, 57 strains of other Neisseria species, and 104 strains of other genera were studied. The probe was highly sensitive (100%) and specific (96%). All N. gonorrhoeae strains gave strong signals, and only two cross-reaction were observed with N. lactamica, which has a close genetic relationship to N. gonorrhoeae. Our results indicate that specific recombinant DNA probe should offer a reliable and rapid method for routine diagnosis of Neisseria gonorrhoeae.