Identification of Filamentous Fungi and Yeasts

The identification of filamentous fungi in the CECT combines phenotypical traits and molecular techniques. The latter are based on the analysis of different regions of ribosomal DNA genes (sequencing of the D1/D2 domains of the 26S rDNA gene and sequencing and subsequent restriction analysis of the ribosomal region spanning the internal transcribed spacers ITS1 and ITS2 and the 5.8S rDNA gene). Depending on the taxonomic group of the culture to be identified, sequencing of various housekeeping genes (β-tubulin and elongation factor 1-α) is also performed.

The identification of yeasts is carried out mainly by the same molecular techniques mentioned above.

Depending on the characteristics of the isolates, the techniques employed and the time taken in the identification may vary.

Identification of Prokaryotes (Bacteria and Archaea)

The CECT offers an identification service of prokaryotic strains that relies mainly in the 16S rRNA gene sequence analysis, along with a basic morphological and phenotypical characterization.
Sequencing of the almost complete 16S rRNA gene, as well as a full phylogenetic study by analysis of the complete sequence are also available.

The CECT offers additional tests including automatic ribotyping (Riboprinter®), phenotypic characterization by means of miniaturized systems (API® strips), cellular fatty acids analysis (FAME-MIDI), and protein analysis by MALDI-TOF.

In the characterization of bacterial strains by using the Biomerieux ® API and ID 32 miniaturized systems, the CECT will attach an inform with the database comparisons to the obtained profiles. The Sherlock Microbial Identification System (MIDI) allows the identification of strains belonging to species included in the MIDI libraries, in addition to the characterization of the strains based in their fatty acid profiles.

MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry analysis provides specific fingerprinting profiles useful for identification and grouping of isolates.

Anyone interested in identifying isolates should get in touch with the CECT to get more detailed information about this service. Any information concerning the identification will be treated in the strictest confidence.

The isolate to be identified must be sent as cultures in solid media (Petri plate or agar slants) together with a duly filled and signed identification form. This form can be downloaded in .doc and .pdf format by clicking the following icons:

MSword format pdf format

Practical guidelines to the shipment of strains to the CECT

The price list for identifications can be consulted here