Methods for Detecting Genetically Engineered Microorganisms in the Environment

Abstract

The ability to monitor accurately genetically engineered microorganisms (GEMs) is critical in determining their potential impact on a given environment. Many articles have delineated the crucial issues surrounding the release of GEMS (Rissler, 1984; Alexander, 1986; Strauss et al 1985; Gillett et al, 1986; Lenski, 1987). Five major concerns are repeatedly referred to by various authors: (1) incorporation of the novel gene or genes into natural microorganisms, (2) ability of the novel organism to survive in the environment, (3) ability of the novel organism to multiply in the environment, (4) interaction of the novel organism with biological systems that could be injurious to other organisms, and (5) the assessment of harm caused by the organism. The ability to address the first four of these concerns is dependent upon the development of appropriate methodologies. The types of ecological questions that are dependent on adequate methodological techniques for answers are shown in Table I. These questions must be answered before the release of GEMs can become as routine a practice as is now the case for the use of licensed pesticides.