Improved detection of microbial DNA after bead-beating before DNA isolation

Detection of microbial DNA in clinical samples by real-time PCR requires a universal extraction method with equally efficient lysis of cell walls of all possible microorganisms. We demonstrated that physical disruption by bead-beating with 0.1 mm beads in combination with MagNA Pure DNA III extraction enhances microbial lysis of diverse Gram-positive microorganisms and may be used to optimize DNA extraction protocols in routine clinical diagnostics. (C) 2009 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.