Cost-effective interrogation of single nucleotide polymorphisms using the mismatch amplification mutation assay and capillary electrophoresis.

The ability to characterize SNPs is an important aspect of many clinical diagnostic, genetic and evolutionary studies. Here, we designed a multiplexed SNP genotyping method to survey a large number of phylogenetically informative SNPs within the genome of the bacterium Bacillus anthracis. This novel method, CE universal tail mismatch amplification mutation assay (CUMA), allows for PCR multiplexing and automatic scoring of SNP genotypes, thus providing a rapid, economical and higher throughput alternative to more expensive SNP genotyping techniques.

Pre-Columbian origins for North American anthrax.

Disease introduction into the New World during colonial expansion is well documented and had a major impact on indigenous populations; however, few diseases have been associated with early human migrations into North America. During the late Pleistocene epoch, Asia and North America were joined by the Beringian Steppe ecosystem which allowed animals and humans to freely cross what would become a water barrier in the Holocene. Anthrax has clearly been shown to be dispersed by human commerce and trade in animal products contaminated with Bacillus anthracis spores.

Role of law enforcement response and microbial forensics in investigation of bioterrorism.

The risk and threat of bioterrorism and biocrime have become a large concern and challenge for governments and society to enhance biosecurity. Law enforcement plays an important role in assessing and investigating activities involved in an event of bioterrorism or biocrime. Key to a successful biosecurity program is increased awareness and early detection of threats facilitated by an integrated network of responsibilities and capabilities from government, academic, private, and public assets.