Molecular Characterisation of Chlamydophila Psittaci Isolates by Restriction Endonuclease Analysis of Dna *

Reports on the prevalence of abortion due to Chlamydia psittaci (Chlamydophila abortus) in Kerala have indicated a need for the in depth study of the organism. To unearth differences among the isolates of Chlamydia psittaci, at molecular level, restriction enzyme analysis of genomic DNA and plasmid profiling were carried out. Four isolates from four different sources were used in this study. DNA extracted from these isolates were digested by Eco RI, Hae III and Bam HI. Hind III digested Lambda DNA was used as molecular weight marker. The isolates were screened for the presence of plasmids also. Characterisation of chromosomal DNA of Chlamydophila abortus by restriction enzyme analysis revealed a near homogeneity among the isolates. The lack of plasmids in all isolates also indicates the homogeneity of their origin and probably the genetic relationship. Thus, the restriction enzyme digestion analysis with other genetic tools can better resolve the similarity or dissimilarity among the isolates.