Power analysis for real-time PCR quantification of genes in activated sludge and analysis of the variability introduced by DNA extraction.

ABSTRACT: The aims of this study were to determine the power of discrimination of the real-time PCR assay for monitoring fluctuations in microbial populations within activated sludge and to identify sample processing points where methodological changes are needed to minimize the variability in target quantification. DNA was extracted using a commercially available kit from mixed liquor samples taken from the aeration tank of four bench-scale activated-sludge reactors operating at 2-, 5-, 10-, and 20-day solid retention times, with mixed-liquor volatile suspended solid (MLVSS) values ranging from 260 to 2,610 mg/liter. Real-time PCR assays for bacterial and Nitrospira 16S rRNA genes were chosen because they represent, respectively, a highly abundant and a less-abundant bacterial target subject to clu

SUBMITTER: Dionisi HM 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC262253 | biostudies-literature | 2003 Nov

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature