Optimization of real-time PCR assay for rapid and sensitive detection of eubacterial 16S ribosomal DNA in platelet concentrates

A real-time PCR assay was developed for rapid detection of eubacterial 16S ribosomal DNA in platelet concentrates. The sensitivity of this assay can be hampered by contaminating DNA in the PCR reagents. Digestion of the PCR reagents with Sau3AI prior to PCR amplitication was effective in eliminating this contaminating DNA without affecting the sensitivity of the assay.