Abstract: The present invention is drawn to methods and compositions for the rapid assessment of fecal indicator bacteria in a sample. Provided herein are novel primer and probe compositions for use in detecting the presence of these organisms in a sample, particularly using quantitative PCR methods. Provided herein are novel oligonucleotide primers and probes, including the primers set forth in SEQ ID NOS: 1-4, 7 and 8, the novel oligonucleotide probe sequences set forth in SEQ ID NOS:5, 6, and 9, and methods for using these primers and probes for the detection and/or quantification of fecal indicator bacteria, particularly Enterococcus spp. and fecal Bacteroides spp., or a specimen processing control, in a sample.

Abstract: The present invention is drawn to methods and compositions for the rapid assessment of fecal indicator bacteria in a sample. Provided herein are novel primer and probe compositions for use in detecting the presence of these organisms in a sample, particularly using quantitative PCR methods. Provided herein are novel oligonucleotide primers and probes, including the primers set forth in SEQ ID NO:1-4, the novel oligonucleotide probe sequences set forth in SEQ ID NO:5-8, and methods for using these primers and probes for the detection and/or quantification of fecal indicator bacteria, particularly E. coli and Enterococcus spp. in a sample.

Abstract: The present invention is drawn to methods and compositions for the rapid assessment of fecal indicator bacteria in a sample. Provided herein are novel primer and probe compositions for use in detecting the presence of these organisms in a sample, particularly using quantitative PCR methods. Provided herein are novel oligonucleotide primers and probes, including the primers set forth in SEQ ID NO:1-4, the novel oligonucleotide probe sequences set forth in SEQ ID NO:5-8, and methods for using these primers and probes for the detection and/or quantification of fecal indicator bacteria, particularly E. coli and Enterococcus spp. in a sample.