DNA Probes (also known as Probes, DNA, DNA Probe): Species- or subspecies-specific DNA (including COMPLEMENTARY DNA; conserved genes, whole chromosomes, or whole genomes) used in hybridization studies in order to identify microorganisms, to measure DNA-DNA homologies, to group subspecies, etc. The DNA probe hybridizes
NIH MeSH · D015342Chemicals and Drugs
DNA Probes
Also known asProbes, DNA · DNA Probe · Probe, DNA · DNA Hybridization Probe · Hybridization Probe, DNA · Probe, DNA Hybridization · DNA Hybridization Probes · Hybridization Probes, DNA · Probes, DNA Hybridization · Chromosomal Probes · Probes, Chromosomal · Conserved Gene Probes
Definition
Species- or subspecies-specific DNA (including COMPLEMENTARY DNA; conserved genes, whole chromosomes, or whole genomes) used in hybridization studies in order to identify microorganisms, to measure DNA-DNA homologies, to group subspecies, etc. The DNA probe hybridizes with a specific mRNA, if present. Conventional techniques used for testing for the hybridization product include dot blot assays, Southern blot assays, and DNA:RNA hybrid-specific antibody tests. Conventional labels for the DNA probe include the radioisotope labels 32P and 125I and the chemical label biotin. The use of DNA probes provides a specific, sensitive, rapid, and inexpensive replacement for cell culture techniques for diagnosing infections.
MeSH classification
D13.444.600.223
D27.505.259.750.600.223
D27.720.470.530.600.223
Need clinical context, treatments, or patient-language explanation?
Species- or subspecies-specific DNA (including COMPLEMENTARY DNA; conserved genes, whole chromosomes, or whole genomes) used in hybridization studies in order to identify microorganisms, to measure DNA-DNA homologies, to group subspecies, etc. The DNA probe hybridizes with a specific mRNA, if present. Conventional techniques used for testing for the hybridization product include dot blot assays, Southern blot assays, and DNA:RNA hybrid-specific antibody tests. Conventional labels for the DNA probe include the radioisotope labels 32P and 125I and the chemical label biotin. The use of DNA probes provides a specific, sensitive, rapid, and inexpensive replacement for cell culture techniques for diagnosing infections. This definition is taken from the National Library of Medicine's MeSH (Medical Subject Headings) 2026 release, which is the standard vocabulary used to index PubMed and most medical literature.
Is DNA Probes known by any other names?
Yes. DNA Probes is also referred to as Probes, DNA, DNA Probe, Probe, DNA, DNA Hybridization Probe in different clinical, research and patient-facing contexts. The MeSH descriptor groups all of these synonyms under a single canonical concept so research and records stay consistent.
Where does DNA Probes sit in the medical classification?
DNA Probes falls under the broader medical category "Chemicals and Drugs" in the MeSH hierarchy (tree numbers: D13.444.600.223, D27.505.259.750.600.223, D27.720.470.530.600.223). Browsing the related concepts on this page takes you to neighbouring topics in the same branch of medicine.
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