Contribution/research:
Study on methods for detecting early infection with M. Leprae and analyzing their major antigens

Award:
Second award awarded by Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, 1997

Winners:
Wu Q, Li X, Li T, Sha L, Hou W, Wei W, Ye G

Address:
National Center for STD and Leprosy Control, Institute of Dermatology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, 12 Jiangwangmiao Road, Nanjing 210042, P. R. China

Introduction:
This study was conducted with equipments made in China. Methods modified were as follows: nested primer-PCR for M. leprae and M. tuberculosis, Woods' PCR for M. leprae, SDS-PAGE, western blotting, SACT and so on. After modidication, These methods were more sensitive and specific than before, and simple, rapid, cheaper, easier to use.. They were useful to detect and identify infection with mycobacteris, the analysis of antigens from relevant mycobacteria study molecular epidemiology, serological activity, vaccine and gene expression and so on.