Simultaneous Oligonucleotide Probe Hybridization and Immunostaining for in Situ Detection of Gordona Species in Activated Sludge
Abstract
Oligonucleotide probes targeting ribosomal RNA can be designed with high specificity to target microbial populations at different phylogenetic levels if the cellular abundance of ribosomal RNA is sufficiently high. In contrast, polyclonal antibody probes cannot be produced with the same specificity for various phylogenetic groups, but they have the potential to detect slow growing microorganisms, populations with low metabolic activities, or even non-viable cells. We combined a polyclonal antibody stain with a ribosomal RNA targeted oligonucleotide probe for the single cell detection of species of the genus Gordona. Gordona species typically require long generation times, often exhibit filamentous growth, and are commonly encountered in activated sludge foams. Our results suggest that the ribosomal RNA content of individual cells of Gordona in activated sludge is highly variable. Therefore, the combined use of an immunostain and an oligonucleotide probe targeting ribosomal RNA can determine the identity of single cells and provide an approximation of their activity. This approach should result in improved detection limits while maintaining high specificity.
Recommended Citation
D. B. Oerther et al., "Simultaneous Oligonucleotide Probe Hybridization and Immunostaining for in Situ Detection of Gordona Species in Activated Sludge," FEMS Microbiology Ecology, vol. 29, no. 2, pp. 129 - 136, Wiley-Blackwell, Jun 1999.
The definitive version is available at https://doi.org/10.1016/S0168-6496(99)00005-7
Department(s)
Civil, Architectural and Environmental Engineering
Keywords and Phrases
polyclonal antibody; ribosome RNA; activated sludge; methodology; microbial community; activated sludge; controlled study; fungus growth; gordona; Gordonia amarae; immunohistochemistry; nonhuman; oligonucleotide probe; priority journal; RNA hybridization; Fungi; Gordonia (actinomycete); Gordonia amarae; Nocardia
International Standard Serial Number (ISSN)
0168-6496
Document Type
Article - Journal
Document Version
Citation
File Type
text
Language(s)
English
Rights
© 1999 Wiley-Blackwell, All rights reserved.
Publication Date
01 Jun 1999