Detection of bacteria in environmental samples by direct PCR without DNA extraction.

Cultured cells and environmental samples were used directly in PCRs without the isolation of DNA. Serial dilution was used to eliminate the inhibitory effect of materials in natural samples. Primers specific for pmoA, which encodes a subunit of the particulate methane monooxygenase, were used to detect and quantify methanotrophic bacteria by direct most probable number PCR. Phototrophic bacteria were detected in environmental samples by direct PCR with primers specific for pufM, and members of the bacterial domain were detected with primers for 16S rDNA. Direct PCR provides a rapid, simple, and sensitive methodfor detecting and quantifying bacteria in environmental samples. Detection of methanotrophic bacteria can be applied to monitoring bioremediation.