Simultaneous detection of Bacteroides forsythus and Prevotella intermedia by 16S rRNA gene-directed multiplex PCR

In a 16S rRNA gene-directed multiplex PCR, Prevotella intermedia- and Bacte roides forsythus-specific reverse primers were combined with a single conse rved forward primer. A 660-bp fragment and an 840-bp fragment that were spe cific for both species could be amplified simultaneously. A total of 152 cl inical samples, subgingival plaque and swabs of three different oral mucosa e, from 38 periodontitis patients were used for the evaluation.