Nucleic acid analysis of subsurface microbial communities: pitfalls, possibilities, and biogeochemical implications

January 17, 2001

Book Chapter

Nucleic acid analysis of subsurface microbial communities: pitfalls, possibilities, and biogeochemical implications

Abstract

The objectives of this chapter are to (a) briefly introduce general strategies for culture-independent analysis of community nucleic acids, (b) elucidate some of the challenges, limitations and pitfalls of culture-independent techniques and data interpretation, (c) introduce some possible technological solutions for overcoming these pitfalls, and (d) discuss the potential implications of technology developments for a more comprehensive understanding of biogeochemical processes in (in situ and ex situ) subsurface materials.

Revised: December 16, 2010 | Published: January 17, 2001

Citation

Chandler D.P., and F.J. Brockman. 2001. Nucleic acid analysis of subsurface microbial communities: pitfalls, possibilities, and biogeochemical implications. In Subsurface Microbiology and Biogeochemistry, edited by JK Fredrickson and M Fletcher. 281-313. New York, New York:Wiley and Sons. PNNL-SA-38021.