Molecular Probes and Biosensors in Bioremediation and Site Assessment

• Published in: Fundamentals and Applications Vol. 1; pp. 385 - 434
• Main Authors: Sayler, Gary S., Matrubutham, Udayakumar, Menn, Fu-Min, Johnston, Wade H., Stapleton, Raymond D.
• Format: Book Chapter
• Language: English
• Published: United States CRC Press 1998; CRC Press LLC
• Edition: 1
• Subjects: Waste management; PCR Reaction Condition; Specific DNA Fragment; Biological Waste Treatment; Methanosarcina Thermophila; MGP Soil; Direct DNA Extraction; Eric Primer; Soluble Methane Monooxygenase; DNA Probe; Toluene Dioxygenase; Competitive DNA; DNA Sequence Data; Naphthalene Dioxygenase; 16S Ribosomal DNA Sequence; PCR Process; Nucleic Acid Probes; Putida F1; Quantitative PCR; Bacterial Genome; Target DNA; Lux Genes; MGP; High Molecular Weight PAHs; Jet Fuel JP-4; TOL Plasmid
• ISBN: 9781566763080; 1566763088
• DOI: 10.1201/9780203755389-11

This chapter attempts to compile the majority of contemporary molecular diagnostic techniques with utility in bioremediation and site assessment. Bioremediation is a process utilizing living organisms to destroy, transform, and in some cases, sequester environmental pollutants. In the broadest sense, all forms of biological waste treatment can be referred to as bioremediation, including such conventional processes as activated sludge and composting for sewage and sludge treatment, respectively. The use of specific segments of DNA as molecular probes of organisms possessing the target DNA has shown great utility in environmental studies. The availability of molecular information on plasmids forms a foundation for designing DNA probes for many specific catabolic functions involved in biodegradation of hazardous pollutants. Biosensor technology can be extended to field situations if properly implemented. The bioreporter bacteria may be contained in sensor modules and installed beneath the ground surface to monitor contaminant bioavailability and biodegradation in groundwater.