PulseNet,
the National Molecular Subtyping Network for Foodborne Disease Surveillance,
is the Center for Disease Control and Prevention's (CDC) network of
public health laboratories. These laboratories perform a DNA "fingerprinting"
method called pulsed-field gel electrophoresis (PFGE) on foodborne
bacteria. The network permits rapid comparison of these fingerprint
patterns through an electronic database. PulseNet provides critical
data for the early recognition and timely investigation of outbreaks,
thus reducing the burden of foodborne disease.
PulseNet
participants include all 50 state public health laboratories and 5
local public health laboratories. Also included are 7 FDA (5 ORA laboratories,
CSFAN and the CVM laboratory) laboratories and the USDA FSIS laboratory.
There are currently 7 state laboratories designated as area laboratories
with assigned service and supporting zones. PulseNet North consists
of 6 provincial Canadian laboratories and the Canadian national laboratory.
The
National Molecular Subtyping Network for Foodborne Disease Surveillance
