Detection of Helicobacter Colonization of the Murine Lower Bowel by Genus-Specific PCR-Denaturing Gradient Gel Electrophoresis

Helicobacter genus-specific PCR and denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis can detect and speciate the helicobacters that colonize the lower bowel of laboratory mice. The method's sensitivity is comparable to that of species-specific PCR and may detect unnamed Helicobacter species. This approach should prove useful for commercial and research murine facilities.