Denaturing Gradient Gel Electrophoresis (DGGE)

Denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis (DGGE) is a molecular genetic tool that can be used to provide information on the composition of mixed microbial communities.  DGGE is an ideal for  screening environmental samples to determine the number of key microorganisms, to determine changes in the composition of microbial communities under varying conditions and the identification of the specific organisms involved in these changes.

Use DGGE to:

  • Monitor changes in microbial community composition due to biostimulation, bioaugmentation, in situ chemical oxidation, etc.;
  • Identify the microorganisms involved in biofouling to refine control measures; and
  • Identify species that are responsible for biodegradation as part of for MNA remedies.

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DGGE Gel

DGGE image displaying variation in the microbial communities before (lanes 6-10) and after site amendment with permanganate (lane 1-5). Microorganisms corresponding to labeled bands were identified by DNA sequencing.