Wong, M.DiRienzo, J. M.Lei, C. H.Listgarten, M. A.2023-05-222023-05-2219962021-03-15https://repository.upenn.edu/handle/20.500.14332/8849Whole genomic and randomly-cloned DNA probes for two fastidious periodontal pathogens, Porphyromonas gingivalis and Bacteroides forsythus were labeled with digoxigenin and detected by a colorimetric method. The specificity and sensitivity of the whole genomic and cloned probes were compared. The cloned probes were highly specific compared to the whole genomic probes. A significant degree of cross-reactivity with Bacteroides species. Capnocytophaga sp. and Prevotella sp. was observed with the whole genomic probes. The cloned probes were less sensitive than the whole genomic probes and required at least 106 target cells or a minimum of 10 ng of target DNA to be detected during hybridization. Although a ten-fold increase in sensitivity was obtained with the whole genomic probes, cross-hybridization to closely related species limits their reliability in identifying target bacteria in subgingival plaque samples.This is the peer reviewed version of the following article: [Wong, M., DiRienzo, J.M., Lai, C.H., Listgarten, M.A. (1996). Comparison of randomly cloned and whole genomic DNA probes for the detection of Porphyromonas gingivalis and Bacteroides forsythus. Journal of Periodontal Research;31(1):27-35.]. This article may be used for non-commercial purposes in accordance with Wiley Terms and Conditions for Use of Self-Archived VersionsPorphyromonas gingivalisBacteroides forsythusDNA probesnon-isotopic labelingDentistryArticle