DNA Microarrays for Characterization of microbial backgrounds

Gary Andersen, Todd DeSantis, and Sonya Murray

Contact: Gary Andersen, 510/495-2795, GLAndersen@lbl.gov

Research Objectives

The primary goal of this project is to understand the quantity and composition of background microorganisms in the environment and to define and predict their ability to interfere with DNA-based pathogen detection systems. By providing baseline knowledge of bacterial organisms in urban aerosols and other environmental samples, this work will make it possible to predict the sensitivity, accuracy, and reliability of DNA-based detection schemes under “real world” conditions. Characterization of bioaerosols is also important for determining the long-term effects of introducing engineered microorganisms for biopesticides and bioremediation on downwind environments.

To continue reading more about this project, view the 1-page pdf here.