Molecular analysis of various mycobacterial species by RAPD-PCR, restriction endonuclease analysis and specific PCR for esat-6 gene to supplement routine tuberculin testing

RAPD-PCR, restriction endonuclease analysis and specific PCR for esat-6 gene were utilized for differentiating various strains of mycobacteria. Former two methods were of value for differentiating mycobacteria at species level, as well as determining intra species differences. Specific PCR for esat-6 gene could well be utilized for differentiating pathogenic mycobacteria from environmental and opportunistic mycobacteria.