Methods for detecting recombinant DNA in the environment
The successful introduction of genetically modified and genetically engineered microorganisms into the environment requires a quantitative evaluation of the survival and dispersion of the microorganisms and specific gene(s) in the environment. The objective of this article is to examine the applicability, suitability, and significance of existing and new methods for detecting and monitoring the recombinant genes or organisms introduced into the environment. Conventional microbiological method(s) involving the selective and differential growth of microorganism(s) and other quantitative approaches such as the most-probable-number (MPN) method and direct microscopic observation (e.g., acridine orange direct count analysis) have drawbacks and are not specific or universally applicable. Direct enumeration by immunofluorescence by the use of fluorescent dye seems more sensitive although still not perfect. However, the molecular methodologies such as the use of gene probes, plasmid epidemiology, antibiotic resistant marker strains, and protein electrophoresis and bacteriophage sensitivity are receiving more attention. As yet, the technology of DNA:DNA hybridization appears to be very useful, sensitive, and accurate for detecting and monitoring the microorganisms in the environment, although improvements are required. New approaches can be developed which may include biochemical signature compounds as well as gene cassettes to be used in a complementary fashion with conventional and molecular techniques for quantifying specific genotypes and genes in the environment. 239 references.
- Research Organization:
- Univ. of Tennessee, Knoxville (USA)
- OSTI ID:
- 6184821
- Journal Information:
- CRC Crit. Rev. Biotechnol.; (United States), Vol. 8:1
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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Related Subjects
DNA
HYBRIDIZATION
MICROORGANISMS
GENETIC ENGINEERING
RECOMBINANT DNA
MEASURING METHODS
BACTERIOPHAGES
ELECTROPHORESIS
FLUORESCENCE
GENES
REVIEWS
DOCUMENT TYPES
LUMINESCENCE
NUCLEIC ACIDS
ORGANIC COMPOUNDS
PARASITES
VIRUSES
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