Transcriptomics-guided identification of an algicidal protease of the marine bacterium Kordia algicida OT-1.

In recent years, interest in algicidal bacteria has risen due to their ecological importance and their potential as biotic regulators of harmful algal blooms. Algicidal bacteria shape the plankton communities of the oceans by inhibiting or lysing microalgae and by consuming the released nutrients. Kordia algicida strain OT-1 is a model marine algicidal bacterium that was isolated from a bloom of the diatom Skeletonema costatum. Previous work has suggested that algicidal activity is mediated by secreted proteases. Here, we utilize a transcriptomics-guided approach to identify the serine protease gene KAOT1_RS09515, hereby named alpA1 as a key element in the algicidal activity of K. algicida. The protease AlpA1 was expressed and purified from a heterologous host and used in in vitro bioassays to validate its activity. We also show that K. algicida is the only algicidal species within a group of four members of the Kordia genus. The identification of this algicidal protease opens the possibility of real-time monitoring of the ecological impact of algicidal bacteria in natural phytoplankton blooms.

Trace Metals Screening Process of Devices Used for the Collection, Analysis, and Storage of Biological Specimens.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's (CDC) Environmental Health Laboratory uses modified versions of inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) analytical methods to quantify metals contamination present in items that will come into contact with patient samples during the pre-analytical, analytical, and post-analytical stages. This lot screening process allows us to reduce the likelihood of introducing contamination which can lead to falsely elevated results. This is particularly important when looking at biomonitoring levels in humans which tend to be near the limit of detection of many methods. The fundamental requirements for a lot screening program in terms of facilities and processes are presented along with a discussion of sample preparation techniques used for lot screening. The criteria used to evaluate the lot screening data to determine the acceptability of a particular manufacturing lot is presented as well. As a result of lot testing, unsuitable manufactured lots are identified and excluded from use.