The isotope array, a new tool that employs substrate-mediated labeling of rRNA for determination of microbial community structure and function.

ABSTRACT: A new microarray method, the isotope array approach, for identifying microorganisms which consume a (14)C-labeled substrate within complex microbial communities was developed. Experiments were performed with a small microarray consisting of oligonucleotide probes targeting the 16S rRNA of ammonia-oxidizing bacteria (AOB). Total RNA was extracted from a pure culture of Nitrosomonas eutropha grown in the presence of [(14)C]bicarbonate. After fluorescence labeling of the RNA and microarray hybridization, scanning of all probe spots for fluorescence and radioactivity revealed that specific signals were obtained and that the incorporation of (14)C into rRNA could be detected unambiguously. Subsequently, we were able to demonstrate the suitability of the isotope array approach for monitoring com

SUBMITTER: Adamczyk J 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC262286 | biostudies-literature | 2003 Nov

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature