Use of DGGE to analysis and identification of selected microorganisms

Abstract

Presented diploma thesis is focused on use of DGGE to analysis and identification of selected microorganisms. PCR-DGGE is a method that allows direct characterization of the microbial community in the natural environment without necessity of cultivation. A literature review is devoted to the principle of the method, current applications and its limitations too. In experimental part microbial DNA was isolated and used as a template for PCR reaction. Microbial DNA was then amplified using the universal eukaryotic primers that target the D1/D2 domain of the 26S subunit of ribosomal DNA. To improve specificity and sensitivity of detection nested PCR was chosen using outer and inner primer pairs. Generated amplicons (250 bp) were consequently separated by DGGE. The analysis of selected microorganisms by DGGE technique was performed after optimization of electrophoresis conditions (in particular the denaturing gradient extent and separation time). Despite the optimization, mutual differentiation among individual yeast strains was not possible since each reference strain was represented by several bands in the same positions. In conclusion DGGE profile obtained from wine musts is discussed. Present bands suggest the major presence of non-Saccharomyces yeasts, yeast-like strain A. pullulans is present in the minority and Saccharomyces yeasts are probably present too. The technique remains open for further optimization, particularly as regards the conditions of polymerase chain reaction