Article Abstract:
The sensitivity of the mer-lux bioassay can be improved by decreasing the number of cells used in the procedure. The sensitivity is degraded at higher cell concentrations because the bioavailable inorganic mercury (Hg2+) binds to the bioindicator cells. It is most sensitive at 10 pM and could be used in measuring the bioavailable Hg2+ in polluted waters. Inorganic mercury found in environmental samples is a measure of the mercury pollution and in the geochemical cyclin of mercury.
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Article Abstract:
Fusion of the regulatory region of the mercury resistance gene and the luminescence gene from Vibrio fischeri provides a novel method in the determination of bioavailable mercury since bacteria expressing this recombinant gene fluoresce in the presence of mercury. Investigations employing this bioindicator suggest that dissolved organic carbon and salinity are inversely related to the level of bioavailable mercury.
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Article Abstract:
A technique for the detection of transconjugants among aquatic bacteria is discussed. This involved an experimental approach based on the catabolic pathway gene assembly. Bacterial strains and plasmids were conjugally transfered between cultures. Plasmids were conjugally transfered to aquatic bacteria. The applicability of the approach to microbial ecology and environmental management was demonstrated.
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