Survival and Effects of Wild-Type, Mutant, and Recombinant 'Streptomyces' in a Soil Ecosystem

摘要

In a laboratory simulation, selected wild-type, mutant, and recombinant Streptomyces were released into a silt loam soil. Strains included genetically enhanced lignin decomposers and those expressing recombinant plasmids. Their survival and effects on soil organic carbon mineralization were monitored in sterile and non-sterile soil, with and without lignocellulose supplementation. Survival was followed by viable plate counts on selective media. This is the first report of released, genetically altered Streptomyces having a measurable effect on a natural ecosystem.