The quantitative real-time PCR applications in the monitoring of marine harmful algal bloom (HAB) species.

摘要

In the last decade, various molecular methods\ud(e.g., fluorescent hybridization assay, sandwich hybridization\udassay, automatized biosensor detection, real-time PCR\udassay) have been developed and implemented for accurate\udand specific identification and estimation of marine toxic\udmicroalgal species. This review focuses on the recent quantitative\udreal-time PCR (qrt-PCR) technology developed for\udthe control and monitoring of the most important taxonomic\udphytoplankton groups producing biotoxins with relevant\udnegative impact on human health, the marine environment,\udand related economic activities. The high specificity and\udsensitivity of the qrt-PCR methods determined by the adequate\udchoice of the genomic target gene, nucleic acid purification\udprotocol, quantification through the standard curve,\udand type of chemical detection method make them highly\udefficient and therefore applicable to harmful algal bloom\udphenomena. Recent development of qrt-PCR-based assays\udusing the target gene of toxins, such as saxitoxin compounds,\udhas allowed more precise quantification of toxigenic\udspecies (i.e., Alexandrium catenella) abundance. These\udstudies focus only on toxin-producing species in the marine\udenvironment. Therefore, qrt-PCR technology seems to offer\udthe advantages of understanding the ecology of harmful\udalgal bloom species and facilitating the management of their\udoutbreaks.