ARS | Publication request: NOVEL PRIMERS FOR DETECTION AND QUANTIFICATION OF MYXOCOCCUS SPECIES IN SITU

Submitted to: Molecular Ecology Notes
Publication Type: Peer Reviewed Journal
Publication Acceptance Date: January 20, 2006
Publication Date: August 1, 2006
Citation: Martin, K.J., Bull, C.T. 2006. Novel primers for detection and quantification of myxococcus species in situ. Molecular Ecology Notes. DOI:10.1111/j.1471-8286.2006.01339.x

Interpretive Summary: Myxobacteria are interesting bacteria found in soils world-wide which produce many novel antibiotics and are known for their predatory lifestyle. These organisms are thought to have a large impact on other microorganisms in the environment and have the potential to serve as biological control agents to suppress plant pathogens. However, these organisms don't grow well in pure culture and are difficult to quantify from environmental samples. In this research a novel protocol for identification and quantification of members of the genus Myxococcus was developed and tested. This tool will lead to advanced ecological studies with these organisms that sould enhance studies in biological control of plant pathogens.

Technical Abstract: A nested PCR protocol using unique primers was developed to detect and quantify Myxococcus species from environmental samples. The protocol amplified most species of Myxococcus when 10 pg of DNA representing 1000 cells was present although over half were amplified with as little as 0.1 pg. The protocol did not amplify other myxobacterial species, members of the delta-proteobacteria or other unrelated organisms tested at significantly higher concentrations of DNA. The primers were also used in quantitative PCR reactions which accurately estimated the populations levels in soil.