Gene Probe Detection of Pathogens in Sludge Amended Soils

摘要

Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was utilized to detect indicator organisms andpathogens in environmental samples. Primers from the lamB gene were used to detect fecal coliforms. Primers were also designed to detect enteroviruses in environmental samples. Sensitive specific detection of target organisms was achieved in pure culture and environmental samples such as groundwater or municipal sludge. UV inactivation studies of bacteria showed that PCR would amplify intact nucleic acid sequences regardless of whether the organisms were viable or non viable. However, non viable cells normally degrade quickly in environmental samples. Thus a positive PCR result implies that the organism was viable or at least recently viable.