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Methods for detection and visualization of intracellular polymers stored by polyphosphate-accumulating microorganisms
Luísa S Serafim1, Paulo C Lemos, Caterina Levantesi
1Departamento de Química, CQFB/REQUIMTE, FCT/Universidade Nova de Lisboa, 2829-516 Caparica, Portugal.
Journal of Microbiological Methods
|June 19, 2002
Summary
Polyphosphate-accumulating microorganisms (PAOs) are key to enhanced biological phosphorus removal. This study reviews methods for visualizing and quantifying their stored polymers, including polyphosphate (poly-P), polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs), and glycogen.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Environmental Science
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Polyphosphate-accumulating microorganisms (PAOs) are crucial for enhanced biological phosphorus removal (EBPR).
- Intracellular polymer storage, including polyphosphate (poly-P), polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs), and glycogen, is vital for PAO metabolism and competitive advantage.
- Understanding these storage mechanisms is key to optimizing EBPR processes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review and discuss methods for the qualitative and quantitative analysis of intracellular polymers stored by PAOs.
- To evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of existing polymer detection and quantification techniques.
- To explore the potential of in vivo nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy for on-line monitoring of PAO intracellular reserves.
Main Methods:
- Qualitative visualization of intracellular polymers using staining procedures and optical microscopy.
- In situ identification of PAOs by combining staining with molecular tools.
- Discussion of destructive quantification methods for intracellular polymers.
- Evaluation of in vivo nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy for on-line monitoring.
Main Results:
- Staining procedures allow for qualitative visualization of poly-P, PHAs, and glycogen in PAOs.
- Combined staining and molecular methods enable in situ identification of polymer-accumulating microorganisms.
- Widely used quantification methods involve sample destruction, presenting limitations.
- In vivo NMR spectroscopy shows potential for real-time, non-destructive measurement of intracellular reserves.
Conclusions:
- Effective visualization and identification techniques for PAO intracellular polymers are available.
- Existing quantification methods have limitations due to sample destruction.
- In vivo NMR spectroscopy offers a promising avenue for on-line monitoring of PAO metabolism and EBPR optimization.