PCR Methods in Foods

Book excerpt: This book will introduce non-molecular biologists to diagnostic PCR-based te- nologies for the detection of pathogens in foods. By the conclusion of this book, the reader should be able to: 1) understand the principles behind PCR including real-time; 2) know the basics involved in the design, optimization, and imp- mentation of PCR in food microbiology lab setting; 3) interpret results; 4) know limitations and strengths of PCR; and 5) understand the basic principles behind a new fledgling technology, microarrays and its potential applications in food microbiology. This book will provide readers with the latest information on PCR and microarray based tests and their application towards the detection of bacterial, protozoal and viral pathogens in foods. Figures, charts, and tables will be used, where appropriate, to help illustrate concepts or provide the reader with useful information or resources as an important starting point in bringing molecular diagnostics into the food microbiology lab. This book is not designed to be a “cookbook”PCR manual with recipes and step-by-step instructions but rather serve as a primer or resource book for students, faculty, and other professionals interested in molecular biology and its integration into food safety. v Table of Contents Preface . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . v Chapter 1. PCR Basics Amanda Fairchild, M. S. , Margie D. Lee DVM, Ph. D. , and John J. Maurer, Ph. D. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 Chapter 2. The Mythology of PCR: A Warning to the Wise John J. Maurer, Ph. D. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 Chapter 3.