Question

Given an environmental sample, describe briefly the methods that would best detect the presence of a non-culturable prokaryote in that sample and amplify the prokaryotic DNA.

a) Metagenomics and PCR
b) Immunofluorescence and DNA microarrays
c) Microscopy and ELISA
d) Plasmid profiling and gel electrophoresis

Answer 1

Microscopy and ELISA are two methods that can be used to detect the presence of a non-culturable prokaryote in an environmental sample and amplify the prokaryotic DNA.

Step-by-step explanation:

To detect the presence of a non-culturable prokaryote in an environmental sample and amplify the prokaryotic DNA, two methods that can be used are microscopy and ELISA.

Microscopy: This technique involves using a microscope to observe the sample at a high magnification. Non-culturable prokaryotes can be visually identified through their morphological characteristics or specific staining techniques. Although microscopy can provide valuable information about the presence of prokaryotes, it may not reveal their exact identity.

ELISA (Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay): ELISA is a biochemical method that can detect and quantify the presence of specific antigens or antibodies. In the case of non-culturable prokaryotes, specific antibodies can be used to capture and detect their antigens in the environmental sample. This can provide information about the presence and concentration of the prokaryote in the sample.