Cell-density-dependent sensitivity of mer-lux bioassay

Article Abstract:

The sensitivity of the mer-lux bioassay can be improved by decreasing the number of cells used in the procedure. The sensitivity is degraded at higher cell concentrations because the bioavailable inorganic mercury (Hg2+) binds to the bioindicator cells. It is most sensitive at 10 pM and could be used in measuring the bioavailable Hg2+ in polluted waters. Inorganic mercury found in environmental samples is a measure of the mercury pollution and in the geochemical cyclin of mercury.

Evaluation, Biological assay, Bioassay

---

Effects of dissolved organic carbon and salinity on bioavailability of mercury

Article Abstract:

Fusion of the regulatory region of the mercury resistance gene and the luminescence gene from Vibrio fischeri provides a novel method in the determination of bioavailable mercury since bacteria expressing this recombinant gene fluoresce in the presence of mercury. Investigations employing this bioindicator suggest that dissolved organic carbon and salinity are inversely related to the level of bioavailable mercury.

Innovations, Indicators (Biology), Biological indicators

---

Conjugal gene transfer to aquatic bacteria detected by the generation of a new phenotype

Article Abstract:

A technique for the detection of transconjugants among aquatic bacteria is discussed. This involved an experimental approach based on the catabolic pathway gene assembly. Bacterial strains and plasmids were conjugally transfered between cultures. Plasmids were conjugally transfered to aquatic bacteria. The applicability of the approach to microbial ecology and environmental management was demonstrated.

Research, Genetic aspects, Aquatic microbiology, Phenotype, Phenotypes

Similar abstracts:

• Abstracts: In situ detection of high levels of horizontal plasmid transfer in marine bacterial communities. Abundance of Tn3, Tn21, and Tn501 transposase (tnpA) sequences in bacterial community DNA from marine environments
• Abstracts: Detection of RTX toxin genes in gram-negative bacteria with a set of specific probes. Rapid and accurate identification of Escherichia coli K-12 strains
• Abstracts: Genes and enzymes of the acetyl cycle of arginine biosynthesis in the extreme thermophilic bacterium Thermus thermophilus HB27
• Abstracts: Novel anaerobic ultramicrobacteria belonging to the Verrumicrobiales lineage of bacterial descent isolated by dilution culture from anoxic rice paddy soil
• Abstracts: Initial transformations in the biodegradation of benzothiazoles by Rhodococcus isolates. Formation of a chiral hydroxamic acid with an amidase from Rhodococcus erythropolis MP50 and subsequent chemical lossen rearrangement to a chiral amine

This website is not affiliated with document authors or copyright owners. This page is provided for informational purposes only. Unintentional errors are possible.