Real-time PCR has established itself as a very sensitive, specific, qualitative and quantitative technique that has become important to all areas of microbiology. This recommended book describes and explains some of the more complex aspects of real-time PCR presenting a background for the newcomer as well as a reference for the experienced user. Each chapter of this book starts with an abstract followed by the introduction and relevant subtitles of the respective topic. Some tables with

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... ed information regarding the described topic are helpful but unfortunately only a few figures facilitate the reading. After a conclusion and outlook, a series of web resources and a reference list for further reading allow a more detailed glance into the respective matter. An index included at the end of the book has proven to be a very helpful tool. Real-Time PCR: History and Fluorogenic Chemistries (Chapter 1): The use of realtime PCR in microbial diagnostics has developed to an essential technology. This technique has introduced significant changes in the way of detecting microbes due to its improved rapidity, sensitivity, reproducibility and the considerably reduced risk of carry-over contamination. The authors review the history of realtime PCR, especially the essential role of fluorescence and they critically throw light on the vast quantity of detection chemistries available to the end user. Oligonucleotide Design for In-House Real-Time PCR Applications in Microbiology: (Chapter 2): Numerous applications of real-time PCR have been described for basic scientific purposes, for diagnosis