Random Amplified Polymorphic DNA (RAPD) analysis is used to type strains of a same species. It uses short primers that amplify by PCR different fragments of the genome. Differences in the genome sequence among strains will result in differences in the number and size of the amplified fragments. These fragments are then separated by agarose gel electrophoresis and visualized as a pattern of bands. Strains showing the same pattern belong to the same type.
For RAPD, BCCM/IHEM analyses 4 different markers (primers). Where possible, a review of the literature is performed to select the markers which are the most discriminative, depending on the species.
The cost (see price list) of the RAPD typing includes DNA extraction, 4 PCR amplifications (one per marker) and agarose gel electrophoresis analysis.