METHOD FOR THE RAPID ASSESSMENT OF THE PRESENCE AND VIABILITY OF BACTERIAL CELLS AND USE THEREOF

摘要

Overall ratios of ribosomal DNA and ribosomal RNA in microorganisms following exposure to an antimicrobial is shown to correspond to the presence and viability of the microorganism. Methods are provided to assess the presence and viability of microorganisms, by administering an antimicrobial to a population of microorganisms having a first and second marker, quantifying the first and second markers, and determining the ratio between the quantity of the first and second marker. A concordant result indicates the presence of viable microorganisms, whereas a discordant result indicates the presence of non-viable microorganisms.