In a recent research article describing the use of FISH to detect LNTB, the authors noted that they used probes that were only 20 base pairs (bp) in length rather than the conventional 100 bp-500 bp. Given what you know about acid-fast bacteria, why do you think they took this approach?
A) The nature of the Mycobacterial cytoplasmic membrane likely makes is difficult for larger probes to enter the cell.
B) The nature of the Mycobacterial capsule likely makes is difficult for larger probes to enter the cell.
C) The nature of the Mycobacterial cell wall likely makes is difficult for larger probes to enter the cell.
D) Mycobacteria have a lipopolysaccharide outer membrane through which larger probes cannot enter.
E) Mycobacteria have smaller ribosomes than any other bacteria and the probes are targeted at rRNA.

Question

In a recent research article describing the use of FISH to detect LNTB, the authors noted that they used probes that were only 20 base pairs (bp) in length rather than the conventional 100 bp-500 bp. Given what you know about acid-fast bacteria, why do you think they took this approach?
A) The nature of the Mycobacterial cytoplasmic membrane likely makes is difficult for larger probes to enter the cell.
B) The nature of the Mycobacterial capsule likely makes is difficult for larger probes to enter the cell.
C) The nature of the Mycobacterial cell wall likely makes is difficult for larger probes to enter the cell.
D) Mycobacteria have a lipopolysaccharide outer membrane through which larger probes cannot enter.
E) Mycobacteria have smaller ribosomes than any other bacteria and the probes are targeted at rRNA.

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The mycobacterial cell wall is a unique structure that is characterized by the presence of mycolic acids, which make it impermeable to many molecules, including larger probes. Therefore, using shorter probes (20 bp) allows for better penetration into the cell and detection of the target DNA/RNA.

In a Recent Research Article Describing the Use of FISH