Detection of polyketide synthetase gene expression in Karenia brevis

摘要

The present invention concerns an assay for the detection of polyketide synthetase (PKS) mRNA from the red tide dinoflagellate Karenia brevis. Another aspect of the invention concerns NASBA primers and a molecular beacon that enable detection of mRNA of one of the PKS genes. In another aspect, the present invention includes an internal control RNA (IC-RNA) that enables quantitative detection of the target as well as correction for inhibition of amplification. The assay of the invention provides a rapid and specific detection of the putative toxin-producing genes of the Florida Red Tide Organism. The assay of the invention is useful for determining the virulence of red tide blooms.