ARS | Publication request: Basic QA/QC information required for reporting real-time quantitative PCR data for drinking water quality

Submitted to: Journal of American Water Works Association
Publication Type: Review Article
Publication Acceptance Date: December 3, 2012
Publication Date: January 15, 2013
Citation: Gibson, K.E., Borchardt, M.A. 2013. Basic QA/QC information required for reporting real-time quantitative PCR data for drinking water quality. Journal of American Water Works Association. 105 (1): 45-47.

Technical Abstract: Over the past two decades, research related to microbial water quality has been transitioning from culture-based to molecular-based [i.e. polymerase chain reaction (PCR)] methods. This transition can be primarily attributed to 1) the advancement in molecular techniques including conventional PCR and real time, quantitative PCR (qPCR) and 2) the need for analytically sensitive detection methods targeting microorganisms that are either difficult or impossible to culture. Acceptance of PCR-based detection methods within the regulatory and policy spheres of water sanitary quality is exemplified by the United States Environmental Protection Agency proposed revisions of the Recreational Water Quality Criteria (RWQC) as well as USEPA Method 1615 for detection of noroviruses and enteroviruses in groundwater. Both the 2012 RWQC and EPA Method 1615 propose qPCR methods. To assist water quality managers, here we describe the minimum quality assurance and quality control information necessary to appropriately interpret qPCR results.